JP7549112B2 - Massage System - Google Patents

Description

This invention relates to a massage system.

Patent Document 1 discloses a massage machine that includes a seat, a backrest, armrests, a legrest, and a base that serves as the foundation for these components. A massage unit equipped with a pair of left and right kneading balls is attached to the backrest in Patent Document 1 so that it can be raised and lowered. The massage unit includes a kneading mechanism that rotates the kneading balls eccentrically, and a tapping mechanism that rocks the kneading balls back and forth.

JP 2012-250072 A

The aim of this invention is to provide a massage system that makes it easy for users to input the area of stiffness and the level of stiffness.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a massage system that includes a stiffness input unit for allowing a user to input a stiff area and a stiffness level, a course determination unit for determining a massage course suitable for the stiff area and stiffness level input by the stiffness input unit, and a massage machine control unit for causing the massage machine to execute the massage course determined by the course determination unit, in which the stiffness input unit includes a first means for displaying a human body map in a human body map display area on a touch panel display unit, in which a body part area representing the range of each of a plurality of pre-set body parts is depicted in an identifiable manner, and a second means for applying a first color to both a body contact area corresponding to an area where a part of the user's body has contacted the human body map display area from the time the part of the body has contacted the human body map display area until the part of the body has left the human body map display area, and an area that is linearly symmetrical to the body contact area with respect to the left-right center line of the human body map.

This configuration makes it easier for users to input the area of stiffness and the level of stiffness.

In one embodiment of the invention, if the body contact area is present both inside and outside the area of the human body map, the first color is applied both inside and outside the area of the human body map.

In one embodiment of the invention, when the ratio of the applied area of the first color to the area of interest, which is the area of interest painted with the first color, reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, when the body moves away from the human body map display area, a third means is included which erases the first color and applies a second color representing the stiff area to the entire area of interest, and even when the first color is applied both inside and outside the area of the human body map, the second color is applied only within the area of the human body map.

In one embodiment of the invention, in the area of interest region, which is the area of interest region where the first color is applied, when the ratio of the applied area of the first color to the area of interest region reaches a predetermined value or more, when the body moves away from the human body map display area, the device includes a third means for erasing the first color and applying a second color representing the stiff area to the entire area of interest, and a plurality of types of second colors having different densities depending on the degree of stiffness are prepared as the second color, and when the second color has already been applied to the entire area of interest at the time of applying the second color to the entire area of interest, the third means applies the density of the currently applied second color to the entire area of interest. If the concentration does not indicate the maximum degree of stiffness, the second color is applied to the entire area of interest at a concentration that indicates a degree of stiffness that is one level higher than the concentration of the second color currently being applied, and further includes a completion input means for allowing a user to input that input of the stiff area and the degree of stiffness has been completed, and a display means for displaying a concentration display screen based on the application result of the second color by the third means when the completion input means has input that input of the stiff area and the degree of stiffness has been completed, and the concentration display screen digitally displays the concentration of the second color applied by the third means to the area of interest for each name of the area of interest.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a massage system. FIG. 2 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the appearance of the massage machine and the mobile terminal. FIG. 3 is a perspective view diagrammatically showing the configuration of the massage unit. FIG. 4A is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the massage machine. FIG. 4B is an air circuit diagram showing the air circuits from the air pump to each airbag. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the mobile terminal. FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram showing an example of a remote control home screen, FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram showing an example of a pairing standby screen, and FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram showing an example of a pairing completion screen. FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram showing an example of a login screen of a mobile terminal, FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram showing an example of a connected device list screen, FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram showing an example of a connecting screen, and FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram showing an example of a connection completion screen. FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram showing an example of an application home screen, and FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram showing an example of a human body map screen. FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram showing a movement trajectory of a user's finger when the user touches and moves the finger mainly on the left forearm on the human body map screen. FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram showing how the first color is applied in response to the finger contact and movement as shown in FIG. 9A. FIG. 9C is a schematic diagram showing that when a first color is applied as shown in FIG. 9B and a finger is moved away from the human body map screen, the first color is erased and a second color is applied to the entire left and right forearms. FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram showing an example of a concentration display screen, and FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram showing an example of an analysis result screen. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of the first course selection table. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of the second course selection table. FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a color density/intensity conversion table. FIG. 14A is a flowchart showing a part of the procedure of the process executed by the control unit of the mobile terminal when the human body map mode is selected on the application home screen. FIG. 14B is a flowchart showing part of the procedure of the process executed by the control unit of the mobile terminal when the human body map mode is selected on the application home screen. FIG. 14C is a flowchart showing part of the procedure of the process executed by the control unit of the mobile terminal when the human body map mode is selected on the application home screen. 15A, 15B, and 15C are schematic diagrams showing examples of human body map screens in which the human body map is colored to indicate the location and degree of stiffness. FIG. 16 is a part of a flowchart showing a part of the procedure of the process executed by the control unit of the mobile terminal when the first modification is applied. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing part of the procedure of the process executed by the control unit of the mobile terminal when the second modification is applied. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing part of the procedure of the process executed by the control unit of the mobile terminal when the third modification is applied.

The following describes in detail an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the attached drawings.

[1] Overall Configuration of Massage System FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a massage system 1. As shown in FIG.

The massage system 1 includes a chair-type massage machine (hereinafter simply referred to as "massage machine 2"), a mobile terminal 3, and a server 4. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal 3 is a smartphone. The mobile terminal 3 is a mobile terminal used by a user (person being massaged) who is to receive a massage using the massage machine 2. The massage machine 2 and the mobile terminal 3 can communicate wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth (registered trademark). The mobile terminal 3 and the server 4 can communicate via a communication network 5.

When a massage is performed by the massage machine 2, the massage history is sent to the mobile terminal 3. The massage history includes the date and time when the massage was performed, the massage course, the massage intensity of each part of the body, etc. The mobile terminal 3 stores the massage history received from the massage machine 2 in its memory. The mobile terminal 3 transmits the massage history stored in its memory to the server 4 in real time or at a specified timing. The server 4 stores the massage history received from the mobile terminal 3 for each user of the mobile terminal 3.

[2] Appearance of the Massage Machine FIG. 2 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing the appearance of the massage machine 2 and the mobile terminal 3. As shown in FIG.

The massage machine 2 includes a seat portion 11, a backrest portion 12, armrest portions 13, a leg rest portion (ottoman) 14, and a base that serves as the foundation for these.

In the following description, the terms "front-rear direction," "left-right direction," and "up-down direction" refer to the front-rear direction, left-right direction, and up-down direction, respectively, as seen by the user when the user is seated on the massage machine 2 in a normal position.

The base is located below the seat 11, but is not visible in FIG. 2 because it is hidden by the seat 11, backrest 12, armrests 13, and leg rest 14.

The seat 11 is disposed on a base. The backrest 12 is disposed at the rear of the seat 11. The armrests 13 are disposed on both the left and right sides of the seat 11. The leg rest 14 is disposed at the front of the seat 11. The backrest 12 is supported by a backrest rotation actuator 21 (see FIG. 4A) so that it can tilt relative to the seat 11. The leg rest 14 can be rotated by a leg rotation actuator 22 (see FIG. 4A) around a support shaft extending in the left-right direction provided near the top of the seat. This allows the leg rest 14 to rotate between the vertical position shown in FIG. 2 and a horizontal position rotated approximately 90 degrees from the vertical position.

A massage unit 23 is built into the backrest 12. The massage unit 23 is for performing various massages (mechanical massages) using a pair of left and right massagers (kneading balls) 51. The backrest 12 is provided with a pair of left and right guide rails 28, 29 (see Figure 3) that extend in the vertical direction and have a U-shaped cross section, and the massage unit 23 can move in the vertical direction along the guide rails 28, 29. The detailed configuration of the massage unit 23 will be described later.

The armrest 13 is provided with an arm unit 16 having a forearm accommodation recess 17 for accommodating the user's forearm. The leg rest 14 has a leg accommodation recess 18 and a foot accommodation recess 19 for accommodating the user's left and right legs and feet, respectively.

Airbags are provided in the backrest 12, seat 11, armrests 13 and leg rest 14 of the massage machine 2. Each airbag inflates and deflates by supplying and discharging air, providing an air massage to the user.

The backrest 12 is provided with a right upper arm airbag 31a for massaging the right upper arm and a left upper arm airbag 31b for massaging the left upper arm. These airbags 31a and 31b form the upper arm airbag 31 for massaging the upper arms.

The seat 11 is provided with a pair of side thigh airbags 32a, 32b for massaging the sides of the thighs, a pair of upper back thigh airbags 32c, 32d for massaging the upper back of the thighs, and a lower back thigh airbag 32e for massaging the lower back of the thighs. These airbags 32a to 32e constitute the thigh airbag 32 for massaging the thighs.

On both sides of the pair of left and right forearm accommodation recesses 17, there are forearm body airbags 33a, 33b for massaging the forearm, and hand airbags 33c, 33d for massaging the hand. These airbags 33a to 33d constitute the forearm airbag 33 for massaging the forearm and hand.

On both sides of the pair of left and right leg storage recesses 18, side calf airbags 34a, 34b are provided for massaging the sides of the calves. On the bottom of the pair of left and right leg storage recesses 18, back of the calf airbags 34c, 34d are provided for massaging the back of the calves. These airbags 34a to 34d make up the calf airbag 34 for massaging the calves.

On both sides of the pair of left and right foot storage recesses 19, front airbags 35a, 35b are provided to press the front side of the foot downward. On the bottom surface of the pair of left and right foot storage recesses 19, sole airbags 35c, 35d are provided to press the sole of the foot upward. These airbags 35a to 35d form the sole airbag 35 for massaging the soles of the feet.

A remote control stand 24 is attached to the arm unit 16. A remote controller (hereinafter referred to as "remote control 25") for the user to operate the massage machine 2 is detachably attached to the remote control stand 24. As shown in FIG. 4A, the operation surface of the remote control 25 is provided with an operation display unit 26 and a plurality of operation keys. The operation display unit 26 is, for example, a touch panel type liquid crystal display. The remote control 25 is provided with a communication unit for wireless communication with the mobile terminal 3.

[3] Configuration of Massage Unit FIG. 3 is a perspective view diagrammatically showing the configuration of the massage unit 23. As shown in FIG.

The massage unit 23 is attached to the guide rails 28, 29 so that it can rise and fall freely. The massage unit 23 includes a rectangular main frame 41. The main frame 41 consists of a pair of left and right side walls, and a top wall and a bottom wall that connect the upper ends and lower ends of these side walls, respectively. A guide shaft 42 and a lifting drive shaft 43 that extend in the left and right direction are attached to the main frame 41 so that they can rotate freely.

The guide shaft 42 is disposed on the upper part of the main frame 41, and the lifting drive shaft 43 is disposed on the lower part of the main frame 41. Both ends of the guide shaft 42 and the lifting drive shaft 43 protrude outward from both side walls of the main frame 41. Guide rollers 44 guided by the guide rails 28, 29 are attached to both ends of the guide shaft 42. Pinion gears 45 that mesh with racks (not shown) provided on the guide rails 28, 29 are attached to both ends of the lifting drive shaft 43.

A lift motor 46 for rotating the lift drive shaft 43 is attached to the main frame 41. The lift motor 46 is connected to the lift drive shaft 43 via a gear mechanism 47. When the lift motor 46 is rotated, the massage unit 23 is raised and lowered along the guide rails 28 and 29.

The massage unit 23 is provided with a lift position sensor 48 for detecting the amount of rotation of the lift drive shaft 43 to detect the lift position (vertical position) of the massage unit 23. The lift position sensor 48 is made of a rotary encoder for detecting the amount of rotation of the lift drive shaft 43.

A swing frame 49 is attached to the middle of the lift drive shaft 43 so that it can swing back and forth. A pair of left and right treatment elements 51 and a treatment element drive unit 50 equipped with a drive mechanism for the treatment elements are attached to the swing frame 49. The main frame 41 is provided with a treatment element drive unit advance/retract mechanism for moving the swing frame (treatment element drive unit) forward and backward.

The treatment tool drive unit advance/retract mechanism will be described. The advance/retract shaft 52, which is disposed below the guide shaft 42 and extends in the left-right direction, is rotatably attached to the main frame 41. A forward/retract motor 53 for rotating the advance/retract shaft 52 is attached to one side of the main frame 41. The forward/retract motor 53 is connected to the advance/retract shaft 52 via a gear mechanism 54. A pair of left and right pinion gears 55 are attached to the middle of the length of the advance/retract shaft 52. An arc-shaped rack 56 that meshes with the pair of left and right pinion gears 55 is provided on the upper part of the swing frame 49. When the advance/retract shaft 52 is rotated by the forward/retract motor 53, the pinion gear 55 rotates and the arc-shaped rack 56 moves. As a result, the swing frame 49 swings around the lift drive shaft 43. As a result, the treatment tool drive unit 50 (treatment tool 51) advances and retreats in the front-rear direction.

The massage unit 23 is provided with a front-rear position sensor 57 for detecting the amount of rotation of the forward/rear shaft 52, thereby detecting the forward/rear position of the treatment element drive unit 50. The front-rear position sensor 57 is composed of an encoder for detecting the amount of rotation of the forward/rear shaft 52.

The massager drive unit 50 includes a kneading mechanism that performs a kneading action by rotating the massager 51 eccentrically, and a tapping mechanism that performs a tapping action by swinging the massager 51 back and forth. The kneading mechanism includes a kneading motor 58 as an actuator (drive source). The tapping mechanism includes a tapping motor 59 as an actuator (drive source). Such kneading and tapping mechanisms are well known.

[4] Electrical configuration of the massage machine 2 and the mobile terminal 3 Fig. 4A is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the massage machine 2. Fig. 4B is an air circuit diagram showing the air circuit from the air pump to each airbag.

Referring to FIG. 4, a control unit 60 for controlling the massage machine 2 is built into the massage machine 2. The control unit 60 is an example of the "massage machine control unit" of the present invention. The control unit 60 includes a microcomputer and is equipped with a CPU, memory (RAM, ROM, non-volatile memory), etc. The memory stores various data in addition to the CPU program.

The control unit 60 is connected to the remote control 25, the drive circuit 71 of the backrest rotation actuator 21, and the drive circuit 72 of the leg rotation actuator 22. The control unit 60 is also connected to the drive circuit 73 of the lift motor 46 in the massage unit 23, the drive circuit 74 of the forward/backward motor 53, the drive circuit 75 of the kneading motor 58, and the drive circuit 76 of the tapping motor 59. The control unit 60 is also connected to the lift position sensor 48 and the front/rear position sensor 57 in the massage unit 23.

The control unit 60 is further connected to a drive circuit 77 for the air pump 81 and a drive circuit 78 for the multiple solenoid valves 82a to 82s. Air is supplied to each of the solenoid valves 82a to 82s from the air pump 81. Hereinafter, the solenoid valves 82a to 82s may be collectively referred to as solenoid valve 82.

Referring to FIG. 4B, the right upper arm airbag 31a is connected to solenoid valve 82a, and the left upper arm airbag 31b is connected to solenoid valve 85b. The right side thigh airbag 32a is connected to solenoid valve 82c, and the left side thigh airbag 32b is connected to solenoid valve 82d. The right upper back thigh airbag 32c is connected to solenoid valve 82e, and the left upper back thigh airbag 32d is connected to solenoid valve 82f. The lower back thigh airbag 32e is connected to solenoid valve 82g.

The right forearm body airbag 33a is connected to solenoid valve 82h, and the left forearm body airbag 33b is connected to solenoid valve 82i. The right hand airbag 33c is connected to solenoid valve 82j, and the left hand airbag 33d is connected to solenoid valve 82k.

The right side calf airbag 34a is connected to solenoid valve 82l, and the left side calf airbag 34b is connected to solenoid valve 82m. The right sole calf airbag 34c is connected to solenoid valve 82n, and the left sole calf airbag 34d is connected to solenoid valve 82o. The right front airbag 35a is connected to solenoid valve 82p, and the left front airbag 35b is connected to solenoid valve 82q. The right sole airbag 35c is connected to solenoid valve 82r, and the left sole airbag 35d is connected to solenoid valve 82s.

In this embodiment, an individual solenoid valve is provided for each pair of airbags arranged on the left and right sides, but a single solenoid valve common to the two paired airbags may also be provided.

When the solenoid valve 82 of a certain airbag is energized, air is supplied from the air pump 81 to the airbag via the solenoid valve 82. This causes the airbag to inflate. Then, when the solenoid valve 82 of the airbag is de-energized, the air inside the airbag is exhausted to the outside via the solenoid valve. This causes the airbag to deflate.

The control unit 60 controls the drive circuits 71, 72 of the actuators 21, 22 based on the operation of the remote control 25, the operation of the mobile terminal 3, etc. The control unit 60 also controls the drive circuits 73-76 of the motors 46, 53, 58, 59, the drive circuit 77 of the air pump 81, and the drive circuit 78 of the solenoid valve 82 based on the operation of the remote control 25, the operation of the mobile terminal 3, etc. This allows the massage machine 2 to perform various types of massage.

Massage modes include manual mode, automatic mode, body map mode, health care mode, history mode, etc.

Manual mode is a mode in which a massage is performed according to the type of massage selected by the user.

Automatic mode allows the user to select the desired massage course from multiple types of massage courses and executes the selected massage course.

The human body map mode prompts the user to input the area of stiffness and the level of stiffness, determines a massage course appropriate for the input area of stiffness and level of stiffness, and executes the determined massage course.

The healthcare mode determines a massage course appropriate for the user's biometric information, such as the number of steps taken, sleep time, and pulse rate (heart rate), and then executes the determined massage course.

History mode allows the user to select a desired massage course from massage courses previously performed, and the selected massage course is then performed.

Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the mobile terminal 3.

The mobile terminal 3 includes a control unit 90. The control unit 90 includes a microcomputer and includes a CPU, a memory (RAM, ROM, non-volatile memory) 91, etc. The memory 91 stores various data in addition to the CPU program. A first communication unit 101, a second communication unit 102, an operation display unit 103, etc. are connected to the control unit 90. The first communication unit 101 is a communication interface that allows the control unit 90 to wirelessly communicate with the remote control 25 (the control unit 90 of the massage machine 2). The second communication unit 102 is a communication interface that allows the control unit 90 to communicate with the server 4 or other mobile terminals via the communication network 5. The operation display unit 103 is, for example, a touch panel type liquid crystal display.

[5] Human Body Map Mode The human body map mode will now be described in detail.

The memory 91 (non-volatile memory) of the mobile terminal 3 stores an application (hereinafter referred to as a "massage app") for implementing the human body map mode, healthcare mode, or history mode, and for transmitting history data to the server 4. The control unit 90 is configured to function as a multi-function processing unit by executing the massage app.

To realize the human body map mode, which is a feature of the present invention, the control unit 90 includes, as functional processing units, a stiffness input unit 92 that allows the user to input the stiff area and stiffness level, a course determination unit 93 that determines a massage course suitable for the input stiff area and stiffness level, and a course transmission unit 94 that transmits the determined massage course to the massage machine 2 via the first communication unit 101. The control unit 60 of the massage machine 2 has a function of causing the massage machine 2 to execute the massage course received from the mobile terminal 3.

[5.1] Starting up the Massage Machine The user starts up the massage machine 2 by turning on the power switch of the remote control 25. As a result, a home screen as shown in FIG. 6A (hereinafter referred to as the "remote control home screen") is displayed on the operation display section 26 of the remote control 25. The remote control home screen displays a course selection button 111 for selecting various massage courses, a manual button 112 for manually selecting a massage type, a setting button 113 for performing various settings, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) button 114, and the like. The Bluetooth (registered trademark) mark is displayed on the Bluetooth (registered trademark) button 114. When the massage machine 2 is not connected to the mobile terminal 3, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) mark is displayed in white.

When the user taps the Bluetooth (registered trademark) button 114, the massage machine 2 enters a state of waiting for connection with the mobile terminal 3 (pairing standby mode). At this time, a pairing standby screen as shown in FIG. 6B is displayed on the operation display unit 26. On the pairing standby screen, the words "Pairing mode", an arc-shaped arrow pair mark, a cancel button, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) button, etc. are displayed. During pairing standby, the arc-shaped arrow pair mark rotates.

When the massage machine 2 and the mobile terminal 3 are connected, a pairing completion screen as shown in FIG. 6C is displayed on the operation display unit 26. On the pairing completion screen, the circular arrow pair mark on the pairing standby screen changes to a tick mark. The tick mark resembles the letter R.

When a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed since the connection completion screen was displayed, the remote control home screen (see FIG. 6A) is displayed on the operation display unit 26. However, in this case, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) mark on the Bluetooth (registered trademark) button 114 is displayed in blue.

[5.2] Starting up the Massage App The user starts up the massage app by tapping the icon of the massage app displayed on the operation display unit 103 of the mobile terminal 3. This causes a login screen as shown in Fig. 7A to be displayed on the operation display unit 103. The login screen displays a login ID input section 121, a password input section 122, a login button 123, and the like.

If the user has already registered and taps the login button 123, a connected device list screen as shown in FIG. 7B is displayed on the operation display unit 103. The connected device list screen displays model selection buttons 124, 125 that indicate the models of massage machines that are in pairing standby mode. The user taps the model selection button that corresponds to the model of the massage machine that the user wishes to use.

When a specific model selection button is tapped, the control unit 90 of the mobile terminal 3 performs processing to connect the mobile terminal 3 to the massage machine 2 of the model corresponding to the model selection button (hereinafter referred to as the "selected model"). If the selected model is XY-0001, a connection screen including the message "Connecting to XY-0001" is displayed on the operation display unit 103 as shown in FIG. 7C. If the massage machine 2 to be used is in a pairing standby state, the mobile terminal 3 will then be connected to the massage machine 2.

When the mobile terminal 3 is connected to the massage machine 2, a connection completion screen as shown in FIG. 7D is displayed on the operation display unit 103. If the selected model is XY-0001, the connection completion screen displays a message saying "Connection completed to XY-0001." Then, the home screen of the massage app (hereinafter referred to as the "app home screen") is displayed on the operation display unit 103.

Figure 8A is a schematic diagram showing an example of an app home screen.

The app home screen displays a connection status field 131 indicating the connection status with the massage machine 2, a human body map mode button 132, a healthcare mode button 133, and multiple history buttons 134.

In the connection status column 131, if the mobile terminal 3 is connected to the massage machine 2, the string "Connected" is displayed, and if the mobile terminal 3 is not connected to the massage machine 2, the string "Not connected" is displayed.

The human body map mode button 132 is a button for setting the massage mode to the human body map mode. The human body map mode button 132 displays a character string such as "human body map." When the human body map mode button 132 is tapped, a human body map screen is displayed on the operation display unit 103 to allow the user to input the stiff area and the degree of stiffness. Details of the human body map screen will be described later.

The healthcare mode button 133 is a button for setting the massage mode to the healthcare mode. For example, biometric information such as the user's number of steps, sleep time, and pulse rate, and a message promoting a massage course suitable for that biometric information are displayed on the healthcare mode button 133. In this example, the number of steps the user took that day and a message promoting a massage course suitable for that number of steps are displayed. When the healthcare mode button 133 is tapped, a course selection screen presenting massage courses suitable for the user's number of steps, sleep time, pulse rate, etc. is displayed on the operation display unit 103. Then, when the user performs a predetermined operation on the course selection screen, the presented massage course is executed by the massage machine 2.

The history button 134 is a button for setting the massage mode to the history mode. The history button 134 displays the name of the massage course and the massage date and time that have been previously performed on the user. When the history button 134 is tapped, a course selection screen that presents the massage course that corresponds to the history button 134 is displayed on the operation display unit 103. Then, when the user performs a predetermined operation on the course selection screen, the presented massage course is executed by the massage machine 2.

[5.3] Human Body Map When the human body map mode button 132 is tapped on the application home screen, the mobile terminal 3 displays a human body map screen, for example, as shown in Fig. 8B on the operation display unit 103. The human body map screen includes a title area E1, a human body map display area E2, a message area E3, and a button area E4. The title area E1 is a horizontally long rectangular area at the upper end of the operation display unit 103, and the button area E4 is a horizontally long rectangular area at the lower end of the operation display unit 103. The message area E3 is a horizontally long rectangular area above the button area E4. The human body map display area E2 is a vertically long rectangular area between the title area E1 and the message area E3.

The title area E1 displays the character string "Human Body Map." The human body map display area E2 displays a human body map 141. The message area E3 displays the message "Apply to the areas you want to massage." The button area E4 displays an OK button 142 and a reset button 143. The human body map display area E2 only needs to include the human body map 141, and its size and shape can be set as desired.

The human body map 141 is made up of an illustration of a rear view of the human body. In the illustration of the rear view of the human body, regions for each of a number of pre-defined body parts are depicted in an identifiable manner. In this embodiment, the multiple body parts are the "neck and shoulders," "back," "waist," "buttocks," "upper arms," "forearms," "thighs," "calves," and "soles of the feet." The dashed lines in FIG. 8B indicate part of the left-right center line of the rear view of the human body. Such dashed lines may or may not be displayed within the human body map 141.

The user moves a part of the body on the human body map screen (more precisely, the human body map display area E2) by touching a part (stiff part) where the degree of fatigue (stiffness) is high. In this embodiment, the part of the body is a finger. When the finger is touched on the human body map display area E2, the finger contact area (body contact area) on the human body map display area E2 and an area that is line-symmetrical to the finger contact area with respect to the left-right center line of the human body map 141 are colored. The color thus painted on the finger contact area and its line-symmetrical area is referred to as the first color. However, the "finger contact area" may be the exact area where the finger is touching, or may be an area including the area where the finger is touching and its vicinity. As a result, the movement trajectory of the finger on the human body map display area E2 (including the line-symmetrical area) is painted with the first color. The first color is, for example, gray. Note that the first color may be a color other than gray.

When the area of the first color applied in the area of interest, which is the area of the part of the body painted with the first color, reaches a predetermined percentage or more of the area of interest before the finger is removed from the human body map display area E2 (human body map screen), the first color is erased and the color representing the location and degree of stiffness is applied to the entire area of interest when the finger is removed from the human body map display area E2. The predetermined percentage is set to, for example, 60%. The color applied to the entire area of the part of the body in this way (the color representing the location and degree of stiffness) is referred to as the second color. In this embodiment, multiple types of second colors with different densities depending on the degree of stiffness are prepared as the second color. In this embodiment, the higher the density of the second color, the higher the degree of stiffness. It is also possible to set the density of the second color to be lower, the higher the degree of stiffness.

In this embodiment, the second color is, for example, a bluish color. Note that the second color may be a color other than a bluish color. Note that the first color applied to the human body map by the contact movement of the finger is erased when the finger is removed from the operation display unit 103, regardless of the application area of the first color.

Referring to Figures 9A, 9B and 9C, the process of applying the second color to, for example, the forearm will be described.

The user touches the human body map display area E2 with a finger and moves the finger mainly, for example, on the left forearm. The curve S in FIG. 9A represents the trajectory of the finger movement in this case. When the finger is touched and moved as shown in FIG. 9A, the first color of an arbitrary width is applied along the trajectory of the finger movement as shown in FIG. 9B, and the first color of an arbitrary width is applied along a line that is linearly symmetrical to the trajectory of the finger movement with respect to the left and right center lines of the human body map 141. In FIG. 9B, the area where the first color is applied is assumed to be 60% or more of the area of the forearm. After that, when the finger is removed from the human body map display area E2, the first color is erased and the second color is applied to the entire left and right forearms as shown in FIG. 9C.

After the finger is removed from the body part area painted with the second color, the finger is again moved into contact with that body part area. Then, when the area of the newly painted first color in that body part area reaches 60% or more of that body part area and the finger is removed from the human body map display area E2, the color density of the second color in the entire body part area becomes darker by one level. In other words, in this embodiment, the stiff area and the degree of stiffness are determined based on the area where the user has moved the finger into contact with the human body map 141 and its area.

The color density, which indicates the degree of adhesion, is expressed in four levels: 0, 1, 2, and 3, from lowest to highest density. However, level 0 is a state in which the second color is not applied. In this embodiment, the colors with color densities 0 to 3 are set as follows: Level 0 is white. Level 1 is light blue (low density second color). Level 2 is blue (medium density second color). Level 3 is navy blue (high density second color).

The reset button 143 is used to reset the color density of all body part areas to 0.

When the user has finished painting each stiff area with the second color at a density corresponding to the degree of stiffness in this manner, the user taps the OK button 142. When the OK button 142 is tapped, the mobile terminal 3 displays a density display screen on the operation display unit 103, as shown in FIG. 10A.

The concentration display screen digitally displays the color concentration for each part name. Specifically, the number of black circles lined up horizontally indicates four levels of color concentration. A total of 0 black circles indicates a color concentration of 0, 1 black circle indicates a color concentration of 1, 2 black circles indicates a color concentration of 2, and 3 black circles indicates a color concentration of 3. The concentration display screen also displays an analysis button 144 and a back button 145. If the OK button 142 on the human body map screen (see FIG. 8B) is tapped when the second color has not been applied to any of the part-specific regions on the human body map screen, the tap operation may be disabled.

When the analysis button 144 is tapped on the concentration display screen, the mobile terminal 3 determines a massage course appropriate for the stiff area and stiffness level input on the human body map screen. The mobile terminal 3 then displays an analysis result screen as shown in FIG. 10B. The analysis result screen displays the name of the massage course determined by the mobile terminal 3, the massage time and its details, as well as a massage start button 146.

When the user taps the massage start button 146, the mobile terminal 3 transmits the massage course displayed on the analysis result screen to the massage machine 2. When the massage machine 2 receives the massage course from the mobile terminal 3, it executes the received massage course.

[5.4] Operation of the portable terminal 3 The memory 91 (see FIG. 5) of the portable terminal 3 stores course selection tables 151, 152 (see FIG. 5) used to determine a massage course appropriate for the stiff area and level of stiffness input via the human body map screen, and a color density/intensity conversion table 153 (see FIG. 5).

The course selection tables include a first course selection table 151, which is used when only one stiff area out of the nine body parts is selected, and a second course selection table 152, which is used when two stiff areas out of the nine body parts are selected (excluding cases where three or more areas are selected).

In this embodiment, if three or more of the nine areas are selected as stiff areas, the "Whole Body/Extreme Fatigue Recovery Course" is always selected as the massage course, so no table is provided for when three or more areas are selected as stiff areas.

Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of the first course selection table 151.

The first course selection table 151 stores massage courses suitable for each stiff area. In the example of FIG. 11, a neck-intensive massage course that focuses on massaging the neck is stored for the neck and shoulders. In other words, if only the neck and shoulders are selected as stiff areas, a neck-intensive massage course that focuses on massaging the neck is determined as the massage course.

In the neck intensive massage course, a mechanical massage is performed using the treatment element 51. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth over the neck area based on the output of the elevation position sensor 48, thereby intensively massaging the neck. The massage operation, for example, alternates between kneading and tapping at predetermined intervals. In addition, the intensity is adjusted by moving the treatment element drive unit 50 back and forth in the forward and backward directions by rotating the forward and backward shaft 52.

For the back, a shoulder blade focused massage course that focuses on massaging the shoulder blades is stored. In other words, if only the back is selected as the stiff area, the shoulder blade focused massage course that focuses on massaging the shoulder blades is determined as the massage course.

In the shoulder blade focused massage course, a mechanical massage is performed using the treatment element 51. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth over the shoulder blade area based on the output of the elevation position sensor 48, thereby intensively massaging the shoulder blades. The massage action, for example, alternates between a kneading action and a tapping action at predetermined intervals. In addition, the intensity is adjusted by moving the treatment element drive unit 50 back and forth in the forward and backward directions by rotating the forward and backward shaft 52.

For the lower back, a lower back focused massage course that focuses on massaging the lower back is stored. In other words, if only the lower back is selected as the stiff area, a lower back focused massage course that focuses on massaging the lower back is determined as the massage course.

In the waist-focused massage course, a mechanical massage is performed using the treatment element 51. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth over the waist area based on the output of the elevation position sensor 48, thereby intensively massaging the waist. The massage action, for example, alternates between a kneading action and a tapping action at predetermined intervals. In addition, the intensity is adjusted by moving the treatment element drive unit 50 back and forth in the forward and backward directions by rotating the forward and backward shaft 52.

For the buttocks, an ischial bone intensive massage course that focuses on massaging the ischial bones is stored. In other words, if only the buttocks is selected as the stiff area, the ischial bone intensive massage course that focuses on massaging the ischial bones is determined as the massage course.

In the intensive sciatic massage course, a mechanical massage using the treatment element 51 and an air massage using the thigh airbag 32 are performed. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth over the sciatic region based on the elevation position sensor 48, thereby intensively massaging the sciatic region. For example, the massage action alternates between a kneading action and a tapping action at predetermined intervals. The intensity is adjusted by rotating the advance/retract shaft 52 to move the treatment element drive unit 50 forward and backward. The thigh airbag 32 is repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and exhausting air at a constant cycle.

For the upper arms, an upper arm air massage course is stored. In other words, when only the upper arms are selected as the stiff area, an upper arm massage course that focuses on massaging the upper arms is determined as the massage course. The upper arm air massage course is a normal air massage course in which the settings for areas other than the upper arms are turned off. Specifically, the upper arm airbag 31 is repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and exhausting air to and from the airbag 31 at a fixed cycle.

A forearm air massage course is stored for the forearm. In other words, if only the forearm is selected as the stiff area, a forearm massage course that focuses on massaging the forearm is determined as the massage course. The forearm air massage course is a normal air massage course in which the settings for areas other than the forearm are turned off. Specifically, the forearm airbag 33 is repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and discharging air to and from it at regular intervals.

A thigh air massage course is stored for the thighs. In other words, when only the thighs are selected as the stiff area, a thigh massage course that focuses on massaging the thighs is determined as the massage course. The thigh air massage course is a normal air massage course in which the settings for areas other than the thighs are turned off. Specifically, the thigh airbag 32 is repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and discharging air to and from the airbag 32 at a fixed cycle.

A calf air massage course is stored for the calves. In other words, when only the calves are selected as the stiff area, a calf massage course that focuses on massaging the calves is determined as the massage course. The calf air massage course is a normal air massage course in which the settings for areas other than the calves are turned off. Specifically, the calf airbags 34 are repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and exhausting air to them at regular intervals.

A sole air massage course is stored for the soles of the feet. In other words, if only the soles of the feet are selected as the stiff area, a sole massage course that focuses on massaging the soles of the feet is determined as the massage course. The sole air massage course is a normal air massage course in which the settings for areas other than the soles of the feet are turned off. Specifically, the air supply and exhaust to the sole airbag 35 causes it to expand and contract at regular intervals.

Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of the second course selection table 152.

The second course selection table 152 stores the combination of two selected body parts and the massage course for that combination.

For the combination of the neck, shoulders and back, a "neck and shoulder relaxation course" is stored. In the neck and shoulder relaxation course, a mechanical massage using the treatment elements 51 and an air massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth mainly in the neck and shoulder area based on the output of the lift position sensor 48, thereby performing a massage centered on the neck and shoulders. As a massage operation, for example, a kneading operation and a tapping operation are performed alternately at predetermined intervals.

In the neck and shoulder relaxation course (as well as the whole body relaxation course and lower back relaxation course described below), the kneading and tapping motions of the kneading balls are slower than in the fatigue recovery courses (lower back and whole body fatigue recovery courses described below), and the massage is characterized by a gentle kneading and loosening. Also, in the neck and shoulder relaxation course, the upper arm airbags 31, thigh airbags 32, forearm airbags 33, calf airbags 34 and sole airbags 35 are repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and exhausting air at regular intervals.

For the combination of neck/shoulder and waist, a "waist/fatigue recovery course" is stored. In the waist/fatigue recovery course, a mechanical massage using the treatment elements 51 and an air massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth mainly in the waist area based on the output of the lift position sensor 48, and a massage is performed mainly on the waist. For example, the massage operation alternates between a kneading operation and a tapping operation at predetermined intervals. In addition, the upper arm airbag 31, the thigh airbag 32, the forearm airbag 33, the calf airbag 34, and the sole airbag 35 are repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and discharging air at regular intervals.

For the combination of neck/shoulders and buttocks, a "whole body/fatigue recovery course" is stored. In the whole body/fatigue recovery course, a mechanical massage using the treatment elements 51 and an air massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth from the neck/shoulder area to the ischial area based on the output of the lift position sensor 48, and massage is performed over the entire movable area of the massage unit 23. For example, the massage operation alternates between a kneading operation and a tapping operation at predetermined intervals. In addition, the upper arm airbag 31, the thigh airbag 32, the forearm airbag 33, the calf airbag 34, and the sole airbag 35 are repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and discharging air at a constant cycle.

For the combination of the neck/shoulders and upper arms, a "whole body/relaxation course" is stored. In the whole body/relaxation course, a mechanical massage using the treatment elements 51 and an air massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth from the neck/shoulder area to the ischial area based on the lift position sensor 48, and massage is performed over the entire movable area of the massage unit. For example, the massage operation alternates between a kneading operation and a tapping operation at predetermined intervals. In addition, the upper arm airbag 31, the thigh airbag 32, the forearm airbag 33, the calf airbag 34, and the sole airbag 35 are repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and exhausting air to and from them at regular intervals.

For the combination of the neck, shoulders and thighs, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the neck, shoulders and calves, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the neck, shoulders and soles of the feet, a "whole body, fatigue recovery course" is stored.

For the combination of the back and the waist, a "waist and relaxation course" is stored. In the waist and relaxation course, a mechanical massage using the treatment elements 51 and an air massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage unit 23 is controlled to move back and forth mainly in the waist area based on the output of the elevation position sensor 48, and a massage is performed mainly on the waist. For example, the massage operation alternates between a kneading operation and a tapping operation at predetermined intervals. In addition, the upper arm airbag 31, the thigh airbag 32, the forearm airbag 33, the calf airbag 34, and the sole airbag 35 are repeatedly inflated and deflated by supplying and discharging air at a constant cycle.

For the combination of the back and buttocks, a "whole body, fatigue recovery course" is stored. For the combination of the back and upper arms, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the back and forearms, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored.

For the combination of the back and thighs, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the back and calves, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the back and soles of the feet, a "whole body, fatigue recovery course" is stored.

For the combination of the waist and buttocks, a "waist/fatigue recovery course" is stored. For the combination of the waist and upper arms, a "whole body/relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the waist and forearms, a "whole body/relaxation course" is stored.

For the combination of the waist and thighs, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the waist and calves, a "whole body, relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of the waist and soles of the feet, a "whole body, fatigue recovery course" is stored.

For the combination of the buttocks and upper arms, a "full body air course" is stored. In the full body air course, an air massage is performed using airbags. Specifically, air is supplied to and exhausted from the upper arm airbags 31, thigh airbags 32, forearm airbags 33, calf airbags 34, and sole airbags 35, which then expand and contract at regular intervals. In this course, no mechanical massage is performed.

For the combination of the buttocks and forearms, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the buttocks and thighs, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the buttocks and calves, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the buttocks and soles of the feet, a "whole body relaxation course" is stored.

For the combination of the upper arm and the forearm, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the upper arm and the thigh, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the upper arm and the calf, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the upper arm and the sole of the foot, a "whole body relaxation course" is stored.

For the combination of the forearm and thigh, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the forearm and calf, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of the forearm and sole, a "whole body relaxation course" is stored.

For the combination of thighs and calves, a "whole body air course" is stored. For the combination of thighs and soles, a "whole body relaxation course" is stored. For the combination of calves and soles, a "whole body relaxation course" is stored.

Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the contents of a color density-intensity conversion table.

In this embodiment, the massage intensity can be adjusted to five levels: 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, from weakest to strongest.

In the example of FIG. 13, for color density 0, a massage intensity of 2 is stored. For color density 1, a massage intensity of 3 is stored. For color density 2, a massage intensity of 4 is stored. For color density 3, a massage intensity of 5 is stored.

When a massage course is selected based on the first course selection table 151, the massage intensity for that massage course is set to an intensity that corresponds to the color density of the area selected as the stiff area.

When a massage course is selected based on the second course selection table 152 or when three or more areas are input as stiff areas, the massage intensity for that massage course is set to an intensity corresponding to the color density of the area selected as the stiff area, and is set to intensity 3 for areas other than the area selected as the stiff area.

Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C are flowcharts showing the steps of the process executed by the control unit 90 of the mobile device 3 when the human body map mode is selected on the home screen of the massage app.

In the following explanation, j is a variable that represents a part. The relationship between the value of j and the corresponding part is as follows:

j=1: neck and shoulders j=2: back j=3: waist j=4: buttocks j=5: upper arms j=6: forearms j=7: thighs j=8: calves j=9: soles of feet Furthermore, _nj is a variable that represents the color intensity (color) of part j.

n _j =0 represents white, n _j =1 represents light blue, n _j =2 represents blue, and n _j =3 represents dark blue.

When the human body map mode is selected on the application home screen (step S1), the control unit 90 sets n ₁ to n ₉ to 0 (step S2).

Next, the control unit 90 displays the human body map screen (see FIG. 8B) on the operation display unit 103 (see FIG. 5) (step S3).

Next, the control unit 90 monitors whether or not a finger has touched the human body map display area E2 (step S4), whether or not the OK button 142 (Figure 8B) has been tapped (step S5), and whether or not the reset button 143 (Figure 8B) has been tapped (step S6).

When it is determined that a finger has touched the human body map display area E2 (step S4: YES), the control unit 90 applies a first color to the finger contact area on the human body map display area E2 and to an area that is linearly symmetrical to the finger contact area with respect to the left-right center line of the human body map 141 (step S7). As a result, the finger movement trajectory (including the linearly symmetrical area) on the human body map display area E2 is painted with the first color.

Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the application area of the first color within the area of interest where the first color is primarily applied (hereinafter referred to as the "area of interest") has reached 60% or more of the area of interest (step S8).

If the application area of the first color does not reach 60% or more of the area by focus area (step S8: NO), the control unit 90 determines whether the finger has been removed from the human body map display area E2 (step S9). If the finger has not been removed from the human body map display area E2 (step S9: NO), the control unit 90 returns to step S7.

If it is determined in step S9 that the finger has been removed from the human body map display area E2 (step S9: YES), the control unit 90 erases the first color (step S10) and then proceeds to step S4.

In step S8, when it is determined that the application area of the first color within the region for specific attention areas has reached 60% or more of the region for specific attention areas (step S8: YES), the control unit 90 increases the color density _nj corresponding to the region for specific attention areas by 1 (step S11). However, if the color density _nj after the increase of 1 is 4 or more, the color density _nj is set to 3. In other words, if the color density _nj corresponding to the region for specific attention areas has already been set to 3, the color density _nj is not increased.

Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the finger has been removed from the human body map display area E2 (step S12). If the finger has not been removed from the human body map display area E2 (step S12: NO), the control unit 90 applies the first color to the finger contact area on the human body map display area E2 and to an area that is line-symmetrical to the finger contact area with respect to the left-right center line of the human body map 141 (step S13). Then, the control unit 90 returns to step S12.

In step S12, when it is determined that the finger has been removed from the human body map display area E21 (step S12: YES), the control unit 90 erases the first color and colors the attention area in a second color according to the color density _nj (step S14).Then, the control unit 90 proceeds to step S4.

If it is determined in step S4 that the finger is not in contact with the human body map display area E2 (step S4: NO), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S5.

In step S5, the control unit 90 determines whether or not the OK button 142 (see FIG. 8B) has been tapped. If the OK button 142 has not been tapped (step S5: NO), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S6. In step S6, the control unit 90 determines whether or not the reset button 143 (see FIG. 8B) has been tapped.

If the reset button 143 has not been tapped (step S6: NO), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S4. If it is determined in step S6 that the reset button 143 has been tapped (step S6: YES), the control unit 90 sets n ₁ to n ₉ to 0 and returns the entire human body map to white (step S15). Then, the control unit 90 returns to step S4.

Figures 15A, 15B, and 15C show examples of human body map screens in which colors indicating the location and degree of stiffness have been applied to the human body map 141 by the above-mentioned processing. In the example of Figure 15A, only the neck and shoulders are colored navy blue. In the example of Figure 15B, the neck and shoulders are colored navy blue, and the upper arms are colored blue. In the example of Figure 15C, the neck, shoulders, and calves are colored navy blue, the upper arms are colored blue, and the back is colored light blue.

In step S5, when it is determined that the OK button 142 has been tapped (step S5: YES), the control unit 90 displays the density display screen (see FIG. 10A) (step S16). Specifically, the control unit 90 digitally displays the color density n _j (j=1, 2, ..., 8, 9) of each part.

Next, the control unit 90 monitors whether the analysis button 144 on the concentration display screen has been tapped (step S17) or whether the back button 145 on the concentration display screen has been tapped (step S18). If the back button 145 has been tapped (step S18: YES), the control unit 90 displays the human body map screen that was displayed immediately before the concentration display screen was displayed (step S19). The control unit 90 then proceeds to step S4.

When the analysis button 144 is tapped (step S17: YES), the control unit 90 determines a massage course and massage intensity for each part that are appropriate for the stiff part and the degree of stiffness input on the human body map screen, based on the color density n _j of each part (step S20).

Specifically, when the second color is applied to only one area, the control unit 90 determines a massage course based on that area and the first course selection table 151. The control unit 90 also determines a massage intensity for one area to which the second color is applied, based on the color density _nj of that area and the color density/intensity conversion table 153. The control unit 90 sets the massage intensity for an area to which the second color is not applied (an area where _nj = 0) to 2.

When the second color is applied to two areas (excluding the case where the second color is applied to three or more areas), the control unit 90 determines a massage course based on the two areas and the second course selection table 152. The control unit 90 also determines the massage intensity of the two areas to which the second color is applied based on the color density _nj of the two areas and the color density/intensity conversion table 153. The control unit 90 sets the massage intensity of 2 for the area to which the second color is not applied (area where _nj = 0).

When the second color is applied to three or more areas, the control unit 90 determines the whole body/extreme fatigue recovery course as the massage course. The control unit 90 also determines the massage intensity of each area to which the second color is applied based on the color density _nj of these areas and the color density/intensity conversion table 153. The control unit 90 sets the massage intensity of 2 for areas to which the second color is not applied (areas where _nj = 0).

Then, the control unit 903 displays an analysis result screen (see FIG. 10B) including the name of the massage course determined in step S18 (step S21).

After that, when the massage start button 146 on the analysis result screen is tapped (step S22: YES), the control unit 903 transmits the massage course and massage intensity for each part determined in step S20 to the massage machine 2 (step S23). When the massage machine 2 receives the massage course and massage intensity for each part from the mobile terminal 3, it performs a massage based on the received massage course and massage intensity for each part.

The above-described embodiment makes it easier for the user to input the stiff area and the level of stiffness. Furthermore, the above-described embodiment makes it possible to provide a massage that is appropriate for the user's stiff area and level of stiffness.

[6] Modifications Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention can be embodied in further other forms.

In the above embodiment, a plurality of types of second colors with different densities depending on the degree of stiffness are prepared as the second color. However, a plurality of types of second colors with different colors (e.g., hues, etc.) depending on the degree of stiffness may be prepared as the second color. In this case, in the above-mentioned flowcharts of Figures 14A to 14C, n _j may be replaced with a variable representing the type of color of the part j. For example, the degree of stiffness may be divided into four stages, and the color of the first stage may be set to white, the color of the second stage to green, the color of the third stage to blue, and the color of the fourth stage to red. In this case, n _j = 0 represents white, n _j = 1 represents green, n _j = 2 represents blue, and n _j = 3 represents red.

In the above-described embodiment, the stiff area and the degree of stiffness are determined based on the contact movement area and the area of the user's finger on the human body map 141. However, the stiff area and the degree of stiffness may be determined by other methods. Below, variations 1 to 3 of the method of determining the stiff area and the degree of stiffness are described.

[6.1] Modification 1
In the first modification, the control unit 90 determines the stiffness part and the stiffness level based on the contact position of the finger on the human body map 141 and the duration of the finger contact. Specifically, the user contacts the human body map 141 with the finger at a part (stiffness part) where the degree of fatigue (degree of stiffness) is high. The higher the degree of stiffness, the longer the duration of the finger contact. The control unit 90 paints the entire part where the finger is in contact with color. At this time, the control unit 90 determines the color density according to the duration of the finger contact. Here, the color density is expressed in four stages, 0, 1, 2, and 3, in order from the lowest density. For example, the 0th stage is white. The 1st stage is light blue. The 2nd stage is blue. The 3rd stage is dark blue.

The relationship between finger contact duration T (seconds) and concentration levels is as follows:

if T=0 seconds then concentration=0
if 0 seconds<T≦2 seconds then concentration=1
if 2 seconds<T≦4 seconds then concentration=2
if T>4 seconds then concentration=3
When the first modified example is applied, among the processing procedures shown in the above-mentioned Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C, the procedure shown in Figure 14B is replaced with the procedure shown in Figure 16. The procedure shown in Fig. 14C is applied almost as it is. However, in step S4 of Fig. 14A, it is determined whether or not a finger has touched the human body map display area E2. When the above method is applied, in step S4 of FIG. 14A, it is determined whether or not a finger has touched the human body map 141.

That is, if it is determined that a finger has touched the human body map 141 (step S4 in FIG. 14A: YES), the control unit 90 starts a timer for measuring the contact duration T (step S31).

Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the contact duration T is within the range of 0 seconds < T ≦ 2 seconds (step S32). If the contact duration T is within the range of 0 seconds < T ≦ 2 seconds (step S32: YES), the control unit 90 sets the color density n _j corresponding to the part area in contact with the finger (hereinafter referred to as the "part area of interest") to 1, and applies light blue to the entire part area of interest (step S33). The control unit 90 then proceeds to step S37.

If it is determined in step S32 that the contact duration T is outside the range of 0 seconds < T ≦ 2 seconds (step S32: NO), the control unit 90 determines whether the contact duration T is within the range of 2 seconds < T ≦ 4 seconds (step S34).

If the contact duration T is within the range of 2 seconds < T ≦ 4 seconds (step S34: YES), the control unit 90 sets the color density n _j corresponding to the attention area to 2, and applies blue to the entire attention area (step S35).Then, the control unit 90 proceeds to step S37.

In step S34, if it is determined that the contact duration T is outside the range of 2 seconds < T ≦ 4 seconds, that is, if it is determined that the contact duration T is longer than 4 seconds (step S34: NO), the control unit 90 sets the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area to 3 and applies navy blue to the entire attention area (step S36).The control unit 90 then proceeds to step S37.

In step S37, the control unit 90 determines whether or not the finger has been removed from the human body map 141. If the finger has not been removed from the human body map 141 (step S37: NO), the control unit 90 returns to step S32.

If it is determined in step S37 that the finger has been removed from the human body map 141 (step S37: YES), the control unit 90 resets and stops the timer for measuring the contact duration time T (step S38). Then, the control unit 90 returns to step S4 in FIG. 14A.

[6.2] Modification 2
In the second modification, the control unit 90 determines the stiff area and the degree of stiffness based on the pressing position (contact position) and pressing force (tapping strength) of the finger on the human body map 141. In this case, a pressure sensor that detects the pressing force of the finger on the display screen of the operation display unit 103 is provided in the portable terminal 3, and the pressing force of the finger on the human body map 141 is detected by this pressure sensor.

The user touches and presses a part (stiff part) on the human body map 141 where the degree of fatigue (stiffness) is high. The more stiff the user is, the stronger the pressure of the finger. The control unit 90 paints the entire part that the finger is touching with color. At this time, the control unit 90 determines the color intensity according to the pressure of the finger. Here, the color intensity is expressed in four levels: 0, 1, 2, and 3, from lowest to highest. For example, level 0 is white. Level 1 is light blue. Level 2 is blue. Level 3 is dark blue.

The relationship between finger pressure F and the density levels is as follows, where F1 < F2.

if F=0 then concentration=0
if 0<F≦F1 (F: pressure equivalent to that of a finger touching the surface) then density = 1
if F1 < F ≦ F2 (F: light pressure) then density = 2
if F>F2 (F: strong pressure) then density=3
When the second modification is applied, among the processing procedures shown in the above-mentioned Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C, the procedure shown in Figure 14B is replaced with the procedure shown in Figure 17. The procedure shown in Fig. 14C is applied almost as it is. However, in step S4 of Fig. 14A described above, it is determined whether or not a finger has touched the human body map display area E2. When the above method is applied, in step S4 of FIG. 14A, it is determined whether or not a finger has touched the human body map 141.

That is, when it is determined that a finger has touched the human body map 141 (step S4 in FIG. 14A: YES), the control unit 90 detects the pressure F of the finger on the human body map 141 (step S41). Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the pressure F is within the range of 0<F≦F1 (step S42).

If the pressure F is within the range of 0<F≦F1 (step S42: YES), the control unit 90 determines whether the color density _nj corresponding to the part-specific region in contact with the finger (hereinafter referred to as the "part-specific region of interest") is less than 1 (step S43). If the color density _nj corresponding to the part-specific region of interest is less than 1 (step S43: YES), the control unit 90 sets the color density _nj to 1 and applies light blue to the entire part-specific region of interest (step S44). The control unit 90 then proceeds to step S50.

In step S43, when it is determined that the color density _nj corresponding to the attention part region is equal to or greater than 1 (step S43: NO), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S50.

If it is determined in step S42 that the pressure force F is outside the range of 0<F≦F1 (step S42: NO), the control unit 90 determines whether the pressure force F is within the range of F1<F≦F2 (step S45).

If the pressure F is within the range of F1<F≦F2 (step S45: YES), the control unit 90 determines whether the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area is less than 2 (step S46). If the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area is less than 2 (step S46: YES), the control unit 90 sets the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area to 2 and applies blue to the entire attention area (step S47). The control unit 90 then proceeds to step S50.

In step S46, when it is determined that the color density _nj corresponding to the attention part region is equal to or greater than 2 (step S46: NO), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S50.

In step S45, if it is determined that the pressure F is outside the range of 0<F≦F2, that is, if it is determined that the pressure F is greater than F2 (step S45: NO), the control unit 90 determines whether the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area is less than 3 (step S48). If the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area is less than 3 (step S48: YES), the control unit 90 sets the color density _nj corresponding to the attention area to 3 and applies navy blue to the entire attention area (step S49). The control unit 90 then proceeds to step S50.

In step S48, when it is determined that the color density _nj corresponding to the attention part region is 3 or more (step S49: NO), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S50.

In step S50, the control unit 90 determines whether or not the finger has been removed from the human body map 141. If the finger has not been removed from the human body map 141 (step S50: NO), the control unit 90 returns to step S41. If it is determined in step S50 that the finger has been removed from the human body map 141 (step S50: YES), the control unit 90 returns to step S4 in FIG. 14A.

[6.3] Modification 3
In the third modification, the control unit 90 determines the stiffness part and stiffness level based on the contact position (hereinafter referred to as the "tap position") and the number of contacts (hereinafter referred to as the "tap count") of the finger on the human body map 141. Specifically, the user taps on the part (stiffness part) on the human body map 141 where the degree of fatigue (stiffness) is high. The higher the stiffness level, the more times the user taps. The control unit 90 paints the entire part where the finger is in contact with color. At this time, the control unit 90 determines the color density according to the number of taps. Here, the color density is expressed in four levels, 0, 1, 2, and 3, in order from the lowest density. For example, level 0 is white. Level 1 is light blue. Level 2 is blue. Level 3 is dark blue.

The relationship between the number of taps K and the density level is as follows:

if K=0 then concentration=0
if K=1 then concentration=1
if K=2 then concentration=2
if K≧3 then concentration=3
When the third modification is applied, among the processing procedures shown in Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C described above, the procedures shown in Figures 14A and 14B are replaced with the procedures shown in Figure 18. 14A, the same steps as those in FIG. 14A are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 14A.

The procedure shown in FIG. 14C described above is applied almost as is. However, if the human body map screen is displayed immediately before the concentration display screen is displayed in step S19 in FIG. 14C, the control unit 90 proceeds to step S51 in FIG. 18.

That is, referring to FIG. 18, when the human body map mode is selected on the application home screen (step S1), the control unit 90 sets n ₁ to n ₉ to 0 (step S2).

Next, the control unit 90 displays the human body map screen (see FIG. 8B) on the operation display unit 103 (step S3).

Next, the control unit 90 monitors whether the human body map 141 has been tapped (step S51), whether the OK button 142 has been tapped (step S5), and whether the reset button 143 has been tapped (step S6).

When the human body map 141 is tapped (step S61: YES), the control unit 90 determines whether the color density _nj corresponding to the tapped part-specific area (hereinafter referred to as the part-specific area of interest) is less than 3 (step S62).

If the color density _nj corresponding to the region of interest is less than 3 (step S62: YES), the control unit 90 increases the color density _nj corresponding to the region of interest by 1 (step S63). Then, the control unit 90 colors the region of interest in a color according to the color density _nj (step S64). After this, the control unit 90 returns to step S61.

In step S62, when it is determined that the color density _nj corresponding to the attention part region is 3 or more (step S62: NO), the control unit 90 returns to step S61.

The operation of the control unit 90 when it is determined in step S5 that the OK button 142 has been tapped, and the operation of the control unit 90 when it is determined in step S6 that the reset button 143 has been tapped, are the same as the operation of the control unit 90 shown in Figures 14A to 14C.

[6.4] Others In the above-described embodiment, the human body map screen (see FIG. 8B) is provided with an OK button 142 and a reset button 143, but a cancel button may also be provided as indicated by a dashed line 147 in FIG. 8B. The cancel button 147 is a button for canceling the immediately preceding operation. For example, if the cancel button 147 is tapped immediately after a second color of a predetermined concentration is applied to a certain area by the contact movement of a finger, the application of the second color of the predetermined concentration to the area is canceled, and the color of the area is returned to the color before the second color of the predetermined concentration was applied.

If such a cancel button 147 is provided, the reset button 143 may be omitted.

Also, as indicated by dashed line 148 in FIG. 8B, an analysis button similar to analysis button 144 on the concentration display screen (FIG. 10A) may be provided on the human body map screen (see FIG. 8B). When this analysis button 148 is tapped, the mobile terminal 3 determines a massage course suitable for the stiff area and level of stiffness input on the human body map screen, and displays an analysis result screen as shown in FIG. 10B.

In the above embodiment, the mobile terminal 3 includes a stiffness input unit 92 that allows the user to input the stiff area and the degree of stiffness, and a course determination unit 93 that determines a massage course appropriate for the input stiff area and degree of stiffness, but the server 4 may also have the functions performed by the course determination unit 93. In this case, the first course selection table 151, the second course selection table 152, and the color density/intensity conversion table 153 are stored on the server 4 side.

In this case, the information on the stiff area and the degree of stiffness input to the stiffness input unit 92 is sent from the mobile terminal 3 to the server 4. The server 4 determines a massage course and massage intensity for each area appropriate for the received stiff area and degree of stiffness based on the received information on the stiff area and the degree of stiffness and the tables 151, 152, and 153, and sends it to the mobile terminal 3. The mobile terminal 3 sends the received massage course and massage intensity for each area to the massage machine 2.

In the above embodiment, the bottom surfaces of the pair of left and right foot receiving recesses 19 (see FIG. 2) are provided with sole airbags 35c, 35d for pressing the soles upward, but instead of the sole airbags 35c, 35d, sole rollers that are driven to rotate to massage the soles may be provided.

In addition, in the above embodiment, the mobile terminal 3 was a smartphone, but the mobile terminal 3 may be a computer such as a tablet computer.

In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the massage machine 2 is a chair-type massage machine, but the massage machine 2 may be a massage machine other than a chair-type massage machine.

In addition, various design changes may be made within the scope of the claims.

The following features can be extracted from the description in this specification and drawings:

[A1] a stiffness input unit for allowing a user to input a stiff area and a stiffness level;
a course determination unit that determines a massage course suitable for the stiffness area and stiffness level input by the stiffness input unit;
a massage machine control unit for causing the massage machine to execute the massage course determined by the course determination unit.

This configuration makes it easier for the user to input the stiff area and the level of stiffness. This configuration also makes it possible to provide a massage that is appropriate for the user's stiff area and level of stiffness.

[A2] A mobile terminal capable of communicating with the massage machine control unit,
The massage system according to [A1], wherein the mobile terminal includes the stiffness input unit and the course determination unit.

[A3] The massage system described in [A1] or [A2] is configured such that the stiffness input unit displays a human body map in a human body map display area on a touch panel display unit, in which a body part area representing the range of each of a plurality of pre-set body parts is depicted in an identifiable manner, and determines the stiff part and the degree of stiffness based on the area of contact and movement of the user on the human body map and its area.

[A4] The stiffness input unit is
a first means for applying a first color to a body contact area on the human body map display area and to an area that is symmetrical to the body contact area with respect to a left-right center line of the human body map from when the user's body comes into contact with the human body map display area until the user's body leaves the human body map display area;
The massage system described in [A3] includes a second means for erasing the first color and applying a second color representing the location and degree of stiffness to the entire attention area when the ratio of the application area of the first color within the attention area, which is the part-specific area painted with the first color, to the attention area reaches a predetermined value or more before the body moves away from the human body map display area, and

[A5] As the second color, a plurality of types of second colors having different densities according to the degree of stiffness are prepared,
The massage system described in [A4] is configured such that, when the second color has already been applied to the entire area of interest at the time the second color is applied to the entire area of interest, if the concentration of the second color currently applied is not a concentration that represents the maximum level of stiffness, then the second means applies a concentration of the second color that represents a level of stiffness that is one level higher than the concentration of the second color currently applied to the entire area of interest.

[A6]
As the second color, a plurality of types of second colors are prepared, the colors being different depending on the degree of stiffness,
The massage system described in [A4] is configured such that, when the second color has already been applied to the entire area of interest at the time the second color is applied to the entire area of interest, if the color of the second color currently being applied is not a color that represents the greatest level of stiffness, then the second means applies a second color that represents a level of stiffness that is one level greater than the color of the second color currently being applied to the entire area of interest.

[A7]
The massage system described in [A1] or [A2] is configured such that the stiffness input unit displays a human body map on a touch panel display unit in which area-specific regions representing the ranges of each of a plurality of pre-set body parts are drawn in an identifiable manner, and determines the stiff area and degree of stiffness based on the position and duration of contact by the user with the human body map.

[A8] The massage system described in [A1] or [A2] is configured such that the stiffness input unit displays a human body map on a touch panel display unit in which area-specific regions representing the ranges of each of a plurality of pre-set body parts are depicted in an identifiable manner, and determines the stiff area and the degree of stiffness based on the position and pressure applied by the user to the human body map.

[A9] The massage system described in [A1] or [A2] is configured such that the stiffness input unit displays a human body map on a touch panel display unit in which area-specific regions representing the ranges of each of a plurality of pre-set body parts are depicted in an identifiable manner, and determines the stiff area and the degree of stiffness based on the position and number of times the user taps on the human body map.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Massage system 2 Chair-type massage machine 3 Mobile terminal 4 Server 5 Communication network 23 Massage unit 25 Remote control 31 Airbag for upper arm 32 Airbag for thigh 33 Airbag for forearm 34 Airbag for calf 35 Airbag for sole of foot 51 Kneading ball 60 Control unit 90 Control unit 91 Memory 92 Stiffness input unit 93 Course determination unit 94 Course transmission unit 101 First communication unit 102 Second communication unit 103 Operation display unit

Claims (4)

a stiffness input unit for allowing a user to input a stiff area and a stiffness level;
a course determination unit that determines a massage course suitable for the stiffness area and stiffness level input by the stiffness input unit;
a massage machine control unit for causing the massage machine to execute the massage course determined by the course determination unit,
The stiffness input unit is
a first means for displaying a human body map in a human body map display area of a touch panel display unit, the human body map having a plurality of predetermined body part regions each of which is drawn in a distinguishable manner;
a second means for applying a first color to a body contact area corresponding to an area where a part of the user's body contacts the human body map display area from the time when the part of the body contacts the human body map display area until the part of the body moves away from the human body map display area, and for applying the first color to an area that is linearly symmetrical to the body contact area with respect to the left-right center line of the human body map without requiring input of a special instruction for applying the first color to an area that is linearly symmetrical to the body contact area with respect to the left-right center line of the human body map. The massage system of claim 1, wherein, if the body contact area is present both inside and outside the area of the human body map, the first color is applied both inside and outside the area of the human body map. a third means for erasing the first color and applying a second color representing a stiff area to the entire attention area when the body moves away from the human body map display area in a case where a ratio of an area where the first color is applied to the attention area reaches a predetermined value or more within the attention area,
The massage system of claim 2 , wherein the second color is applied only within the area of the human body map even if the first color is applied both within and outside the area of the human body map. In the area of interest where the first color is applied, the ratio of the area of the area of interest to the first color has reached a predetermined value or more.
a third means for erasing the first color and applying a second color representing a stiff area to the entire attention area when the body moves away from the human body map display area,
As the second color, a plurality of types of second colors having different densities according to the degree of stiffness are prepared,
the third means is configured to apply, at a timing when the second color has already been applied to the entire region of interest, a second color having a density representing a degree of stiffness one level higher than the density of the second color currently applied to the entire region of interest, if the density of the second color currently applied is not a density representing a maximum degree of stiffness;
a completion input means for allowing a user to input that input of the stiffness area and stiffness level has been completed;
a display means for displaying a concentration display screen based on a result of application of the second color by the third means when the completion input means has input the stiffness area and stiffness level,
2. The massage system according to claim 1, wherein the concentration display screen digitally displays, for each name of the body part region, the concentration of the second color applied to that body part region by the third means.

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