JPWO2019189735A1 - Vibration applying device, vibration applying system, and vibration applying method - Google Patents

Abstract

The vibration applying device is a vibration unit that is held by the user's body and changes according to the user's movement to apply vibration to the target part of the body, and a control unit that vibrates the vibration unit at a vibration frequency corresponding to the user's movement. And.

Description

The present invention relates to a vibration applying device, a vibration applying system, and a vibration applying method for applying vibration to a target portion of a user's body.

Conventionally, for example, in rehabilitation of an injury, a vibration applying device that applies vibration to a target part of the user's body has been used in order to improve the symptoms of the injury or strengthen the muscles.

Patent Document 1 discloses a vibration imparting device used for the purpose of improving symptoms such as arthritis and muscle rigidity.

Jitsufuku 7-22264 Gazette

In the vibration applying device as described above, a vibration applying device capable of enhancing the effect of rehabilitation is desired.

An object of the present invention is to provide a vibration applying device, a vibration applying system, and a vibration applying method capable of enhancing the effect of rehabilitation.

The vibration applying device according to the present invention vibrates a vibrating portion that is held by the user's body and applies vibration to a target portion of the body that changes with the user's movement, and a vibrating portion that vibrates at a vibration frequency corresponding to the user's movement. It is provided with a control unit for causing the vibration.

The vibration applying system according to the present invention is connected to the vibration applying device as described above and the vibration applying device, and stores information on the target portion and information on the vibration frequency to be applied to each target portion for each user. It is equipped with an information storage device.

The vibration applying method according to the present invention is a vibration applying method that applies vibration to a target portion that changes with the user's movement, and sets the vibration frequency of the vibration generated by the vibrating portion to a frequency corresponding to the user's movement. It includes a step of setting and a step of vibrating the vibrating part according to a change of the target part.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a vibration applying device, a vibration applying system, and a vibration applying method capable of enhancing the effect of rehabilitation.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a vibration applying system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing a state in which the user wears the vibration imparting device. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a first example of the vibrating portion. 3B is a _{A 1} arrow view of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the first weight element. Figure 3D is a _{A 2} arrow view of FIG. 3C. Figure 3E is a _{A 3} arrow view of FIG. 3D. FIG. 3F is a perspective view of the second weight element. Figure 3G is a _{A 4} arrow view of FIG. 3F. Figure 3H is a _{A 5} arrow view of FIG. 3G. FIG. 3I is a front view of the eccentric motor according to the second example of the vibrating portion. Figure 3J is a _{A 6} arrow view of FIG. 3I. FIG. 3K is a front view of the eccentric motor according to the third example of the vibrating portion. Figure 3L is an _{A 7} arrow view of FIG. 3K. FIG. 3M is a front view of the eccentric motor according to the fourth example of the vibrating portion. Figure 3N is a _{B 1} enlarged view of FIG. 3M. FIG. 3O is a front view of the eccentric motor according to the fifth example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 3P is an enlarged view _{of B 2 of FIG. 3O.} FIG. 4A is a schematic view showing a sixth example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 4B is a schematic view showing a seventh example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 4C is a schematic view showing an eighth example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 4D is a schematic view showing a ninth example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 4E is a schematic view showing a tenth example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 4F is a schematic view showing an eleventh example of the vibrating portion. FIG. 4G is a schematic view showing a twelfth example of the vibrating portion. Figure 5A is a A ₉ arrow view of FIG. 4A showing the first example of the vibration applying surface. 5B is a _{A 10} arrow view of FIG. 5A. 5C is a A ₁₀ arrow view of FIG. 5A according to the first modification of the first example of the vibration applying surface. 5D is a A ₁₀ arrow view of FIG. 5A according to the second modification of the first example of the vibration applying surface. Figure 6A is a A ₉ arrow view of FIG. 4A according to a second example of the vibration applying surface. 6B is a A ₉ arrow view of FIG. 4A according to a third example of the vibration applying surface. Figure 6C is a A ₉ arrow view of FIG. 4A according to the fourth example of the vibration applying surface. 6D is a A ₉ arrow view of FIG. 4A in accordance with a fifth example of the vibration applying surface. Figure 6E is a A ₉ arrow view of FIG. 4A according to a sixth example of a vibration applying surface. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the walking motion and the myoelectric potential of each muscle during the walking motion. FIG. 8 is a schematic view showing changes in the myoelectric potential of each muscle during the standing / sitting motion from the chair. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the vibration applying device. FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the vibration applying system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic view showing a state in which the user wears the vibration imparting device. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the vibration applying device. FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the vibration applying device according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing a state in which the user wears the vibration applying device according to the third embodiment. FIG. 15A is a schematic diagram for explaining a user's state in the dumbbell lifting motion. FIG. 15B is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the dumbbell lifting motion. FIG. 15C is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the dumbbell lifting motion. FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the Patera setting motion.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<Embodiment 1>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the vibration applying system S1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[Vibration applying system]
Hereinafter, the vibration applying system S1 will be described with reference to FIG. The vibration applying system S1 includes a vibration applying device 1 and an information collecting device 19.

[Vibration applying device]
The vibration applying device 1 is a device for applying vibration to a target portion (for example, vastus medialis 303, see FIG. 2) of the body of the user 3 (see FIGS. 2 and 7).

Such a vibration applying device 1 includes a vibration unit 11, a detection unit 12, a control unit 13, a communication unit 14, a storage unit 15, an input unit 16, a power supply unit 17, and a mounting unit 18.

[Vibration part]
The vibrating unit 11 applies vibration to the target portion of the body of the user 3 under the control of the control unit 13. The vibration frequency of the vibration applied to the target portion by the vibrating unit 11 is preferably 30 Hz or more and 500 Hz or less, and more preferably 30 Hz or more and 200 Hz or less. The reason why the vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11 is within the above range will be described later.

Hereinafter, a first example of the vibrating portion will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A to 3H.

[First example of vibrating part]
FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a first example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11 shown in FIG. 3A includes a housing 1101 and an eccentric motor 1102.

[housing]
The housing 1101 has a rectangular box shape having a storage space 1103. The structure of housing 1101 is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 3A. The housing 1101 may have various structures as shown in FIGS. 4A to 4G described later.

As the material of such a housing 1101, for example, a material that does not absorb the vibration generated by the eccentric motor 1102 is preferable. Further, the material of the housing 1101 is preferably a material that does not easily dissipate vibration energy by converting it into heat energy.

Examples of the material of the housing 1101 include synthetic resin. Specifically, examples of the material of the housing 1101 include synthetic resins such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymers and polyolefins such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP).

The material of the housing 1101 is not limited to the above-mentioned material. For example, the material of housing 1101 may be metal. When the housing 1101 comes into direct contact with the skin of the user 3, the metal material is preferably a metal having excellent biocompatibility. When the housing 1101 does not come into direct contact with the skin of the user 3, various metal materials other than titanium (iron alloy, aluminum alloy, etc.) can be mentioned as the metal material.

[Eccentric motor]
The eccentric motor 1102 is arranged in the accommodation space 1103. The eccentric motor 1102 is fixed to the eccentric motor 1102 via the fixing member 1104. The fixing member 1104 is formed by combining two plate-shaped members having a substantially L-shaped cross section. Such a fixing member 1104 is fixed to the housing 1101 by a fastening component such as a screw. The eccentric motor 1102 is fixed to the fixing member 1104 by fastening parts such as screws.

The eccentric motor 1102 has a motor body 1105 and a weight 1106.

The motor body 1105 is a DC motor having a rotating shaft 1107. The rotation speed of the motor body 1105 can be changed according to the applied voltage. When the rotation speed of the motor body 1105 changes, the vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11 changes. That is, the motor body 1105 has means for changing the vibration frequency by switching the voltage.

The weight 1106 (also referred to as an eccentric portion) has a disk shape and is fixed to the rotating shaft 1107. The weight 1106 has a plurality of (three in the case of the present embodiment) eccentric holes 1108 (see FIG. 3B). Each of the eccentric holes 1108 penetrates the weight 1106 in the thickness direction. Each eccentric hole 1108 has a central axis parallel to the thickness direction. In the following, the mechanism for adjusting the center of gravity of the weight 1106 by the eccentric hole 1108 will be described. However, the weight 1106 is eccentric by removing the weight (by making a hole or thinly processing the weight). The center of gravity of the 1107 can be adjusted so as to be eccentric with respect to the center of rotation of the rotation shaft 1107.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3B, the eccentric hole 1108 has a first eccentric hole 1108a, a second eccentric hole 1108b, and a third eccentric hole 1108c. Each such eccentric hole is a center of gravity distance adjusting mechanism for changing the distance between the center of rotation of the rotation shaft 1107 (that is, the center axis O) and the center of gravity of the weight 1106. Note that FIGS. 3A and 3B show a state in which the rotating shaft 1107 is inserted through the third eccentric hole 1108c.

_{The central axes O 1} , O ₂ , and O ₃ of the first eccentric hole 1108a, the second eccentric hole 1108b, and the third eccentric hole 1108c _{are eccentric with respect to the central axis O 4} (center of gravity) of the weight 1106, respectively.

Eccentricity with respect to the center axis _{O 4} of the weight 1106 is increased in the order of the first eccentric hole 1108a, the second eccentric hole 1108b, and a third eccentric hole 1108c.

The center axis _{O 1} of the first eccentric aperture 1108a, (also referred to as eccentricity.) Distance between the center axis _{O 4} of the weight 1106 was used as a _{L 1,} the central axis _{O 2} of the second eccentric hole 1108b, the center of weight 1106 the distance between the axes _{O 4} and _{L 2,} the central axis _{O 3} of the third eccentric hole 1108c, the distance between the center axis _{O 4} of the weight 1106 when the _{L 3,} L 1, _{L 2,} and _{L 3} Has a relationship of L ₁ <L ₂ <L _3.

The eccentricity of the weight 1106 (L ₁ , L ₂ , and L ₃ ) is preferably included in the range of 0.2 mm or more and 30 mm or less. If the eccentricity of the weight 1106 is less than 0.2 mm, an appropriate amplitude and vibration frequency cannot be obtained. Further, if the eccentric amount of the weight 1106 is larger than 30 mm, the eccentric motor 1102 becomes large.

The relationship between the eccentricity amount _{L 1} of radius R and the first eccentric hole 1108a of the weight 1106, eccentricity _{E 1} of the first eccentric aperture 1108a _is defined by E 1 _{= L} 1 / R. Further, from the relationship between the radius R of the weight 1106 and the eccentricity L _{2 of} the second eccentric hole 1108b, the eccentricity E ₂ of the second eccentric hole 1108b is defined by _{E 2} = L _{2 / R.} Further, from the relationship between the radius R of the weight 1106 and the eccentricity L _{3 of} the third eccentric hole 1108c, the eccentricity E ₃ of the third eccentric hole 1108c is defined by _{E 3} = L _{3 / R.}

The eccentricity E ₁ of the first eccentric hole 1108a, the eccentricity E ₂ of the second eccentric hole 1108b, and the eccentricity E ₃ of the third eccentric hole 1108c have a relationship of E ₁ <E ₂ <E _3. The degree of eccentricity of the eccentric hole through which the rotating shaft 1107 is inserted is also referred to as the degree of eccentricity of the eccentric motor 1102.

The eccentric motor 1102 selects the eccentric hole through which the rotating shaft 1107 is inserted from the first eccentric hole 1108a, the second eccentric hole 1108b, and the third eccentric hole 1108c, thereby eccentric from E ₁ , E ₂ , and E _3. You can select the degree. That is, the eccentric motor 1102 has means for changing the vibration frequency by mechanical switching (hereinafter, referred to as "mechanical changing means"). The mechanical changing means may change the vibration frequency of the eccentric motor 1102 according to the operation of the switch (not shown) of the user 3, for example.

The eccentric motor 1102 preferably can change the degree of eccentricity in the range of 0.1 or more and 0.8 or less. When the degree of eccentricity of the eccentric motor 1102 is included in this range, it becomes easy to set the amplitude of the vibration of the vibrating unit 11 to a amplitude comfortable for the user 3.

The eccentric motor 1102 vibrates at a vibration frequency of 45 Hz or more and 250 Hz or less in a range where the degree of eccentricity is 0.1 or more and 0.8 or less. The reason why the vibration frequency range of the eccentric motor 1102 is 45 Hz or more and 250 Hz or less will be described later.

The distance L between the weight 1106 and the eccentric motor 1102 is preferably 0.5 mm or more and 20 mm or less, and more preferably 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less. When the distance L is 0.5 mm or more and 20 mm or less, stable vibration can be obtained. Further, when the distance L is 1 mm or more and 5 mm or less, stable vibration can be obtained and the eccentric motor 1102 can be miniaturized at the same time.

Each of the weights 1106 has a semi-disc-shaped first weight element 1109 and a second weight element 1110.

As shown in FIGS. 3C to 3E, the first weight element 1109 has a flat first mating surface 1109a facing the second weight element 1110 and a semi-cylindrical first outer peripheral surface 1109b.

The first weight element 1109 has first through holes 1109c and 1109d that penetrate from two places of the first outer peripheral surface 1109b to the first mating surface 1109a.

The first weight element 1109 has first hole elements 1109e to 1109g on the first mating surface 1109a. The first hole elements 1109e to 1109g are combined with the second hole elements 1110e to 1110g of the second weight element 1110, which will be described later, to form the first eccentric hole 1108a, the second eccentric hole 1108b, and the third eccentric hole 1108c, respectively. To do.

As shown in FIGS. 3F to 3H, the second weight element 1110 has a flat second mating surface 1110a facing the first mating surface 1109a of the first weight element 1109 and a semi-cylindrical second mating surface. It has an outer peripheral surface 1110b.

The second weight element 1110 has second screw holes 1110c and 1110d that penetrate from two positions of the second outer peripheral surface 1110b to the second mating surface 1110a.

The second weight element 1110 has the second hole elements 1110e to 1110g on the second mating surface 1110a. The second hole elements 1110e to 1110g are combined with the first hole elements 1109e to 1109g of the first weight element 1109 to form the first eccentric hole 1108a, the second eccentric hole 1108b, and the third eccentric hole 1108c, respectively.

The first weight element 1109 and the second weight element 1110 as described above are fixed by fastening parts such as screws.

A method of fixing the first weight element 1109 and the second weight element 1110 to the rotating shaft 1107 will be described. First, with the first mating surface 1109a and the second mating surface 1110a aligned, the first weight element 1109 is formed by fastening parts such as screws inserted through the first through holes 1109c and 1109d and the second screw holes 1110c and 1110d. And the second weight element 1110 are temporarily fixed. Next, the rotating shaft 1107 of the motor main body 1105 is inserted into any of the first eccentric hole 1108a, the second eccentric hole 1108b, and the third eccentric hole 1108c. Then, the fasteners are further tightened. In this way, the first weight element 1109 and the second weight element 1110 are fixed to the rotating shaft 1107.

[Second example of vibrating part]
Next, a second example of the vibrating portion will be described with reference to FIGS. 3I and 3J. FIG. 3I is a front view showing only the eccentric motor 1102B taken out from the vibrating portion according to the second example. Figure 3J is a _{A 6} arrow view of FIG. 3I. In FIG. 3J, the motor body 1105 other than the rotating shaft 1107 is omitted.

The structure of the weight 1106B (also referred to as an eccentric portion) of the eccentric motor 1102B is different from that of the eccentric motor 1102 described above. Hereinafter, the eccentric motor 1102B will be described focusing on a portion different from the eccentric motor 1102.

The eccentric motor 1102B has a motor body 1105 and a weight 1106B. Such an eccentric motor 1102B is fixed to the housing 1101 (see FIG. 3A) described above.

The motor body 1105 is a DC motor having a rotating shaft 1107.

The weight 1106B is a fan-shaped plate-shaped member having a _{central angle θ 1 of 120 °.} Such a weight 1106B is fixed to the rotating shaft 1107. In the configuration of the vibrating portion of this example as described above, the magnitude of the eccentricity of the weight 1106B with respect to the rotating shaft 1107 can be switched by preparing a plurality of types of weights having different _{central angles θ 1 in advance and replacing them as appropriate.} Can be done. The configuration, operation, and effect of the other eccentric motor 1102B are the same as those of the eccentric motor 1102 described above.

[Third example of vibrating part]
Next, a third example of the vibrating portion will be described with reference to FIGS. 3K and 3L. FIG. 3K is a front view showing only the eccentric motor 1102C taken out from the vibrating portion according to the third example. Figure 3L is an _{A 7} arrow view of FIG. 3K. In FIG. 3L, the motor body 1105 other than the rotating shaft 1107 is omitted.

The structure of the weight 1106C of the eccentric motor 1102C is different from that of the eccentric motor 1102 described above. Hereinafter, the eccentric motor 1102C will be described focusing on a portion different from the eccentric motor 1102.

The eccentric motor 1102C has a motor body 1105 and a weight 1106C. Such an eccentric motor 1102C is fixed to the housing 1101 (see FIG. 3A) described above.

The motor body 1105 is a DC motor having a rotating shaft 1107.

The weight 1106C is a fan-shaped plate-shaped member having a _{central angle θ 2 of 180 °.} Such a weight 1106C is fixed to the rotating shaft 1107. The configuration, action, and effect of the other eccentric motor 1102C are the same as those of the eccentric motor 1102 described above. The structure of the vibrating portion is not limited to the above case.

[Fourth example of vibrating part]
Next, a fourth example of the vibrating portion will be described with reference to FIGS. 3M and 3N. FIG. 3M is a front view showing only the eccentric motor 1102D taken out from the vibrating portion according to the fourth example. Figure 3N is a _{B 1} enlarged view of FIG. 3M.

The structure of the weight 1106D of the eccentric motor 1102D is different from that of the eccentric motor 1102 described above. Hereinafter, the eccentric motor 1102D will be described focusing on a portion different from the eccentric motor 1102.

The eccentric motor 1102D has a motor body 1105 and a weight 1106D. Such an eccentric motor 1102D is fixed to the housing 1101 (see FIG. 3A) described above.

The motor body 1105 is a DC motor having a rotating shaft 1107.

Weight 1106D is, for example, a shaft-like member such as a cylinder having a central axis _{O 4.} The weight 1106D is fixed to the tip of the rotating shaft 1107 via the joint portion 1112. The joint portion 1112 enables the weight 1106D to swing with respect to the rotating shaft 1107. Weight 1106D by adjusting the joint portion 1112, the central axis _{O 4} with respect to the central axis O of the rotating shaft 1107, may be inclined at a predetermined range. Such a configuration is a center of gravity distance adjusting mechanism for changing the distance between the center of rotation of the rotating shaft 1107 (that is, the central axis O) and the center of gravity of the weight 1106D.

In this example, the central axis _{O 4} of the weight 1106d, according to the inclination angle theta _2a and the center axis O of the rotating shaft 1107, eccentricity relative to the axis of rotation 1107 of the weight 1106d (i.e., eccentricity of the eccentric motor 1102D) Is changed.

It is preferable that the inclination angle θ _2a of the weight 1106D is automatically switched according to, for example, a switch operation by the user. However, the inclination angle θ _2a of the weight 1106D may be manually switched by the user.

[Fifth example of vibrating part]
Next, a fifth example of the vibrating portion will be described with reference to FIGS. 3O and 3P. FIG. 3O is a front view showing only the eccentric motor 1102E taken out from the vibrating portion according to the fifth example. FIG. 3P is an enlarged view _{of B 2 of FIG. 3O.}

The structure of the weight 1106E of the eccentric motor 1102E is different from that of the eccentric motor 1102 described above. Hereinafter, the eccentric motor 1102E will be described focusing on a portion different from the eccentric motor 1102.

The eccentric motor 1102E has a motor body 1105 and a weight 1106E. Such an eccentric motor 1102E is fixed to the housing 1101 (see FIG. 3A) described above.

The motor body 1105 is a DC motor having a rotating shaft 1107.

The weight 1106E is a plate-shaped member, and is fixed to the tip of the rotating shaft 1107. The weight 1106E has a locking mechanism that prevents displacement with respect to the rotating shaft 1107. Further, the weight 1106E, when releasing the locking mechanism, having a displacement adjusting mechanism which enables displacement in the predetermined direction (the direction of arrow A ₈ of FIG. 3O and Figure 3P) with respect to the rotation shaft 1107. The predetermined direction may be any direction orthogonal to the central axis O of the rotation axis 1107. Such a configuration is a center of gravity distance adjusting mechanism for changing the distance between the center of rotation of the rotating shaft 1107 (that is, the central axis O) and the center of gravity of the weight 1106E.

The weight 1106E can eccentric the position of its center of gravity with respect to the central axis O of the rotating shaft 1107 by adjusting the amount of displacement in a predetermined direction with respect to the rotating shaft 1107.

In the case of this example, the amount of eccentricity of the weight 1106E with respect to the rotating shaft 1107 (that is, the amount of eccentricity of the eccentric motor 1102E) according to the distance (eccentric distance) between the center of gravity of the weight 1106E and the central axis O of the rotating shaft 1107 in a predetermined direction. ) Is changed.

It is preferable that the lock mechanism and the displacement adjustment mechanism of the weight 1106E are automatically operated in response to, for example, a user's switch operation. However, the locking mechanism and the displacement adjusting mechanism of the weight 1106E may be manually operated by the user.

[6th example of vibrating part]
FIG. 4A is a schematic view showing a sixth example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11A shown in FIG. 4A has a housing 11a having a shape along the vibrated surface 309 of the user 3. The housing 11a houses an eccentric motor (see, for example, the eccentric motor 1102 in FIG. 3A). The eccentric motors of the vibrating parts 11A to 11G shown in FIGS. 4A to 4G may be any of the eccentric motors 1102 to 1102E of the first to fifth examples of the vibrating parts described above.

Such a housing 11a has a vibration applying surface 11a1 on one side surface (in other words, a surface facing the vibration applying surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11a1 is a concave curved surface along the vibration applying surface 309. The shape of the vibration applying surface 11a1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing. The size, curvature, and the like of the vibration applying surface 11a1 may be appropriately determined according to the shape of the vibration applying surface 309.

In the case of this example, the other side surface of the housing 11a (in other words, the surface facing the vibration applying surface 11a1) is a convex curved surface having the same curvature as the vibration applying surface 11a1. However, the shape of the other side surface of the housing 11a is not limited to the case of this example.

In the case of this example, since a large area of the vibration applying surface 11a1 can be secured, the surface pressure on the vibration applying surface 11a1 can be lowered. Therefore, the user 3 can use it comfortably without feeling any discomfort.

[7th example of vibrating part]
FIG. 4B is a schematic view showing a seventh example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11B shown in FIG. 4B has a housing 11b. The housing 11b houses an eccentric motor (see, for example, the eccentric motor 1102 in FIG. 3A).

The housing 11b has a vibration applying surface 11b1 on one side surface (in other words, a surface facing the vibration applying surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11b1 is a convex curved surface that is convex toward the vibration applying surface 309. The shape of the vibration applying surface 11b1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing. The size, curvature, and the like of the vibration applying surface 11b1 may be appropriately determined according to the shape of the vibration applying surface 309.

[8th example of vibrating part]
Note that FIG. 4C is a schematic view showing an eighth example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11C shown in FIG. 4C is different from the vibrating portion 11B shown in FIG. 4B in the shape of the other side surface of the housing 11c (in other words, the surface facing the vibration applying surface 11b1).

In the case of the seventh example and the eighth example of the vibration portion as described above, since the vibration applying surface 11b1 is a convex curved surface, the vibration can be accurately transmitted to the target portion.

[9th example of vibrating part]
FIG. 4D is a schematic view showing a ninth example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11D shown in FIG. 4D has a housing 11d. The housing 11d has a first housing element 111d, a second housing element 112d, and a third housing element 113d.

The first housing element 111d is located in the center of the housing 11d. The first housing element 111d has a substantially rectangular box shape. Such a first housing element 111d has a vibration applying surface 11d1 on one side surface (a surface facing the vibration applying surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11d1 is a flat surface. However, the shape of the vibration applying surface 11d1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing. For example, the vibration applying surface 11d1 may be a concave curved surface along the vibration applying surface 309, or may be a convex curved surface that is convex toward the vibration applying surface 309.

Further, in the case of this example, the other side surface of the first housing element 111d (in other words, the surface facing the vibration applying surface 11d1) is a flat surface. However, the shape of the other side surface of the vibration applying surface 11d1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing.

The second housing element 112d and the third housing element 113d each have a substantially rectangular box shape. The second housing element 112d and the third housing element 113d are arranged so as to sandwich the first housing element 111d.

The second housing element 112d and the third housing element 113d each have a vibration applying surface 11d2 and a vibration applying surface 11d3 on one side surface (a surface facing the vibration-applied surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11d2 and the vibration applying surface 11d3 are flat surfaces. However, the shapes of the vibration applying surface 11d2 and the vibration applying surface 11d3 are not limited to the case shown in the drawing. For example, the vibration applying surface 11d2 and the vibration applying surface 11d3 may be a concave curved surface that follows the vibration applying surface 309, or may be a convex curved surface that is convex toward the vibration applying surface 309.

Further, in the case of this example, the other side surfaces of the second housing element 112d and the third housing element 113d (in other words, the surfaces facing the vibration applying surface 11d2 and the vibration applying surface 11d3) are flat surfaces. However, the shapes of the other side surfaces of the second housing element 112d and the third housing element 113d are not limited to the cases shown in the drawings.

The first housing element 111d and the second housing element 112d are connected by a first joint portion 114d that allows the relative swing of the first housing element 111d and the second housing element 112d.

The first housing element 111d and the third housing element 113d are connected by a second joint portion 115d that allows the relative swing of the first housing element 111d and the third housing element 113d.

The first housing element 111d, the second housing element 112d, and the third housing element 113d each contain an eccentric motor (see, for example, the eccentric motor 1102 in FIG. 3A).

In the case of this example, since the second housing element 112d and the third housing element 113d are swingably supported with respect to the first housing element 111d, the vibrating portion 11D is matched to the shape of the vibrated surface 309. The shape of is adjustable.

[10th example of vibrating part]
FIG. 4E is a schematic view showing a tenth example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11E shown in FIG. 4E has a housing 11e and a vibration transmitting member 11m.

One side surface and the other side surface of such a housing 11e are flat surfaces. However, the shape of the housing 11e is not limited to the case shown in the figure. The housing 11e houses an eccentric motor (see, for example, the eccentric motor 1102 in FIG. 3A).

Further, the vibration transmission member 11m is arranged between the housing 11e and the vibration-imparted surface 309 of the user 3, and transmits the vibration of the housing 11e to the vibration-imparted surface 309. Such a vibration transmitting member 11m has a shape along the vibration-applied surface 309.

The vibration transmitting member 11m has a vibration applying surface 11e1 on one side surface (in other words, a surface facing the vibration applying surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11e1 is a concave curved surface along the vibration applying surface 309. The shape of the vibration applying surface 11e1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing. The size, curvature, and the like of the vibration applying surface 11e1 may be appropriately determined according to the shape of the vibration applying surface 309.

Further, the other side surface of the vibration transmitting member 11m (in other words, the surface facing the vibration applying surface 11e1) is a convex curved surface having the same curvature as the vibration applying surface 11e1. A housing 11e is fixed to the other side surface of the vibration transmitting member 11m. The method of fixing the housing 11e and the vibration transmitting member 11m is not particularly limited. The housing 11e and the vibration transmitting member 11m may be fixed by various methods such as a fitting type, a screwing type, and a button type. If the housing 11e and the vibration transmission member 11m are held by the mounting portion 18 (see FIG. 2) and the vibration of the housing 11e can be transmitted to the vibration transmission member 11m, the housing 11e and the vibration transmission member 11m Does not have to be fixed.

Further, the vibration transmission member 11m may be provided on the mounting portion 18. For example, the vibration transmitting member 11m shown in FIG. 4E may be provided in the holding portion (for example, a pocket) of the mounting portion 18 for holding the housing 11e.

In the case of this example, since a large area of the vibration applying surface 11e1 can be secured, the surface pressure on the vibration applying surface 11e1 can be lowered. Therefore, the user 3 can use it comfortably without feeling any discomfort. Further, since the housing 11e does not come into direct contact with the user 3, it is possible to select a material having low biocompatibility as the material of the housing 11e. That is, there are many choices of materials for the housing 11e.

[Eleventh example of vibrating part]
FIG. 4F is a schematic view showing an eleventh example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11F shown in FIG. 4F has a housing 11f and a vibration transmitting member 11n. An eccentric motor (see, for example, the eccentric motor 1102 in FIG. 3A) is housed in the housing 11f.

The housing 11f is the same as the housing 11e of the tenth example described above.

Further, the vibration transmission member 11n is arranged between the housing 11f and the vibration-imparted surface 309 of the user 3, and transmits the vibration of the housing 11f to the vibration-imparted surface 309.

The vibration transmitting member 11n has a vibration applying surface 11f1 on one side surface (in other words, a surface facing the vibration applying surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11f1 is a convex curved surface that is convex toward the vibration applying surface 309. The shape of the vibration applying surface 11f1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing. The size, curvature, and the like of the vibration applying surface 11f1 may be appropriately determined according to the shape of the vibration applying surface 309.

Further, the other side surface of the vibration transmitting member 11n (in other words, the surface facing the vibration applying surface 11f1) is a flat surface. However, the shape of the other side surface of the vibration transmitting member 11h is not limited to the case of this example.

In the case of this example, since the vibration applying surface 11f1 is a convex curved surface, the vibration can be accurately transmitted to the target portion. Further, as in the case of the tenth example of the vibrating portion described above, there are many choices of materials for the housing 11f.

[12th example of vibrating part]
FIG. 4G is a schematic view showing a twelfth example of the vibrating portion. The vibrating portion 11G shown in FIG. 4G has a housing 11g and a vibration transmitting member 11p.

The housing 11g has a first housing element 111g, a second housing element 112g, and a third housing element 113g.

The first housing element 111 g, the second housing element 112 g, and the third housing element 113 g each have a substantially rectangular box shape. One side and the other side of the first housing element 111g, the second housing element 112g, and the third housing element 113g are flat surfaces.

The first housing element 111 g, the second housing element 112 g, and the third housing element 113 g each contain an eccentric motor (see, for example, the eccentric motor 1102 in FIG. 3A). The shapes of the first housing element 111 g, the second housing element 112 g, and the third housing element 113 g are not limited to the cases shown in the drawings.

The vibration transmitting member 11p has a first element 111p, a second element 112p, and a third element 113p.

The first element 111p is arranged in the center of the vibration transmission member 11p. The first element 111p has a substantially rectangular plate shape. Such a first element 111p has a vibration applying surface 11g1 on one side surface (a surface facing the vibration applying surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11g1 is a flat surface. However, the shape of the vibration applying surface 11g1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing. For example, the vibration-imparting surface 11g1 may be a concave curved surface along the vibration-imparting surface 309, or a convex curved surface that is convex toward the vibration-imparting surface 309.

Further, in the case of this example, the other side surface of the first element 111p (in other words, the surface facing the vibration applying surface 11g1) is a flat surface. A first housing element 111g is fixed to the other side surface of the first element 111p. The shape of the other side surface of the vibration applying surface 11g1 is not limited to the case shown in the drawing.

The second element 112p and the third element 113p each have a substantially rectangular box shape. The second element 112p and the third element 113p are arranged with the first element 111p interposed therebetween.

The second element 112p and the third element 113p each have a vibration applying surface 11g2 and a vibration applying surface 11g3 on one side surface (a surface facing the vibration-applied surface 309). The vibration applying surface 11g2 and the vibration applying surface 11g3 are flat surfaces. However, the shapes of the vibration applying surface 11g2 and the vibration applying surface 11g3 are not limited to the cases shown in the drawings. For example, the vibration applying surface 11g2 and the vibration applying surface 11g3 may be a concave curved surface that follows the vibration applying surface 309, or may be a convex curved surface that is convex toward the vibration applying surface 309.

Further, in the case of this example, the other side surfaces of the second element 112p and the third element 113p (in other words, the surfaces facing the vibration applying surface 11g2 and the vibration applying surface 11g3) are flat surfaces. The second housing element 112g and the third housing element 113g are fixed to the other side surfaces of the second element 112p and the third element 113p, respectively. The shapes of the other side surfaces of the vibration applying surface 11g2 and the vibration applying surface 11g3 are not limited to the cases shown in the drawings.

The first element 111p and the second element 112p are connected by a first joint portion 114p that enables the relative swing of the first element 111p and the second element 112p.

The first element 111p and the third element 113p are connected by a second joint portion 115p that enables the relative swing of the first element 111p and the third element 113p.

In the case of this example, since the second element 112p and the third element 113p are swingably supported with respect to the first element 111p, the shape of the vibrating portion 11G is adjusted to match the shape of the vibrated surface 309. It is adjustable.

[Vibration applied surface]
The vibrating unit 11 has a vibration-applying surface that faces the vibrating-applied surface during use. The vibration applying surface may be composed of a part of the surface of the vibrating portion 11.

5A-5D and 6A-6E are views showing some examples of the vibration applying surface 11a1. The configuration of the vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIGS. 5A to 5D and 6A to 6E can be applied to the above-mentioned vibration units 11, 11A to 11F.

[First example of vibration applying surface]
Figure 5A is a _{A 9} arrow view of FIG 4A. 5B is a _{A 10} arrow view of FIG. 5A.

The vibration applying surface 11a1 of the housing 11a has a rectangular shape in the state shown in FIG. 5A. The vibration applying surface 11a1 has a plurality of convex portions 11x1. In this example, the convex portion 11x1 is the first direction (direction of arrow X ₁ in FIG. 5A), and, in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction (the direction of arrow Y ₁ in FIG. 5A), at regular intervals Have been placed. The housing 11a may be curved as in the first and second modifications shown in FIGS. 5C and 5D.

[Second example of vibration applying surface]
Next, a second example of the vibration applying surface will be described with reference to FIG. 6A. FIG. 6A is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5A. In the case of the vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIG. 6A, the convex portions 11x1 are staggered over the entire surface of the vibration applying surface 11a1.

[Third example of vibration applying surface]
Next, a third example of the vibration applying surface will be described with reference to FIG. 6B. FIG. 6B is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5A. Also in the case of the vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIG. 6B, the convex portions 11x1 are staggered. However, if the vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIG. 6B, in the first direction (in the range of about 1/3 of the total length of the first direction) a predetermined range including the central portion in the (vertical arrow X ₁ in FIG. 6B) , Has a flat surface portion 11y1 in which the convex portion 11x1 is not formed.

[Fourth example of vibration applying surface]
Next, a fourth example of the vibration applying surface will be described with reference to FIG. 6C. FIG. 6C is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5A. Also in the case of the vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIG. 6C, the convex portions 11x1 are staggered. However, in the case of vibration applying surface 11 a 1, the second direction (in the range of about 1/3 of the total length of the second direction) a predetermined range including the central portion in the (direction of arrow Y ₁ in FIG. 6C) shown in FIG. 6C, It has a flat surface portion 11y2 in which the convex portion 11x1 is not formed.

[Fifth example of vibration applying surface]
Next, a fifth example of the vibration applying surface will be described with reference to FIG. 6D. FIG. 6D is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5A. For vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIG. 6D, protrusions 11x2 is a convex extending in the second direction (direction of arrow _{Y 1} in FIG. 6D). Such protrusions 11x2 are disposed at equal intervals in a first direction (direction of arrow X ₁ in FIG. 6D). In the case of such a configuration, it is preferable that the first direction is a direction in which the vibration-applying surface 11a1 easily slips off with respect to the vibration-applied surface 309 (for example, the vertical direction in the used state).

[6th example of vibration applying surface]
Next, a sixth example of the vibration applying surface will be described with reference to FIG. 6E. FIG. 6E is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 5A. For vibration applying surface 11a1 shown in FIG. 6E, the convex portion 11x3 is, (in other words, zigzag) zigzag shape extending in a second direction (direction of arrow Y ₁ in FIG. 6) is convex for. Such protrusions 11x3 are disposed at equal intervals in a first direction (direction of arrow X ₁ in FIG. 6). Even in such a configuration, it is preferable that the first direction is a direction in which the vibration-applying surface 11a1 is likely to slip off with respect to the vibration-applied surface 309 (for example, the top-bottom direction in the used state). The shape of the convex portion provided on the vibration applying surface is not limited to the cases of the first to sixth examples described above.

In the structure in which the convex portion is provided on the vibration applying surface 11a1 as described above, the vibration stimulus can be selectively applied to the vibration applying surface 309, and the vibration between the vibration applying surface 11a1 and the vibration applying surface 309 is ventilated. Can improve sex.

The vibrating portion 11 as described above (hereinafter, the same applies to the vibrating portions 11A to 11G) is held by the mounting portion 18 (see FIG. 2) described later. At the time of use, the vibrating portion 11 is arranged in a state of being in direct or indirect contact with the surface of the target portion of the user 3 (hereinafter, referred to as “vibrated surface”).

It is preferable that the vibrating portion 11 is arranged at a position including the central portion of the surface to be vibrated. The number of vibrating portions 11 may be singular or plural. When there are a plurality of vibrating portions 11, each vibrating portion 11 may be dispersedly arranged on the vibrated surface of one target portion. Alternatively, when there are a plurality of vibrating portions 11, each vibrating portion 11 may be arranged on a vibration-applied surface of a different target portion.

When there are a plurality of vibrating portions 11, it is preferable that each vibrating portion 11 is arranged at a position where the vibrations of each vibrating portion 11 do not weaken each other. Further, when there are a plurality of vibrating portions 11, it is preferable that each vibrating portion 11 is arranged at a position where the vibrations of each other are strengthened.

Further, when there are a plurality of vibrating portions 11, it is preferable that each vibrating portion 11 is arranged at a position where the vibrations of each vibrating portion 11 strengthen each other in the target portion. It is more preferable that the vibrating portions 11 are arranged at positions where the vibrations of each vibrating portion are strengthened at the central portion of the target portion. Such a configuration can amplify the vibration at the target site while keeping the irritation to the vibration-applied surface (that is, the skin surface) small.

Further, it is preferable that the vibrating portions 11 are arranged at positions where the vibrations of each vibrating portion are strengthened at the central portion of the target portion.

The vibrating portion 11 may be held by the mounting portion 18 in a state in which its position can be adjusted. Further, the vibrating portion 11 may be removable from the mounting portion 18.

The vibrating unit 11 does not have to be held by the mounting unit 18 as long as it is connected to the control unit 13. The connection between the vibrating unit 11 and the control unit 13 may be wired or wireless.

The size of the vibrating portion 11 (specifically, the housing) is not particularly limited. The size of the vibrating portion 11 is preferably a size that does not interfere with the operation of the user 3. The size of the vibrating portion 11 is appropriately determined according to the size of the target portion (in other words, the area of the surface to which the vibration is applied).

When the target portion is the vastus medialis muscle of the user 3, the shape of the vibrating portion 11 is, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped having a vertical dimension of 40 mm, a horizontal dimension of 60 mm, and a height dimension of 30 mm. In this case, the vibrating unit 11 has a vibration applying surface on the surface on the side that comes into contact with the user 3 during use. The shape of the vibrating portion 11 is such that it is easy to apply appropriate vibration to the vastus medialis muscle of the user 3.

Hereinafter, the target portion of the body of the user 3 will be described. Target parts of the body of the user 3 include, for example, the chest muscle, the abdominal muscle, the back muscle, the shoulder muscle, the arm muscle, the foot muscle, and the buttocks muscle of the user 3.

Examples of the chest muscle include the pectoralis major muscle. Abdominal muscles include, for example, the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and iliopsoas muscles. Back muscles include, for example, the erector spinae muscle, the latissimus dorsi muscle, the teres major muscle, the teres minor muscle, and the infraspinatus muscle. The shoulder muscles include, for example, the deltoid and trapezius muscles.

Arm muscles include, for example, the biceps brachii and triceps brachii. The muscles of the foot include, for example, the quadriceps femoris (rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis) and hamstrings (biceps femoris, semi-tendon-like, semi-membranous). Can be mentioned. Gluteus muscles include, for example, the gluteus minimus, gluteus medius, and gluteus maximus.

[Detection unit]
The detection unit 12 detects a change in the body of the user 3 during the operation of the user 3. For example, the detection unit 12 makes a physical quantity (change amount) of a change in a part (for example, a knee) that changes corresponding to a target part (for example, vastus medialis 303, see FIG. 2) of the user 3 during the operation of the user 3. Detect as.

Then, the detection unit 12 sends the detected physical quantity to the control unit 13, which will be described later. The detection unit 12 detects the physical quantity at predetermined intervals, and sends information about the detected physical quantity to the control unit 13.

The physical quantity is, for example, a displacement amount, a time, an angle, an angular velocity, a velocity, an acceleration, a current, a voltage (for example, a myoelectric potential), a pressure, or the like. Such a physical quantity is detected by a sensor corresponding to the physical quantity to be detected.

The detection unit 12 is, for example, a sensor such as an angle sensor, an angular velocity sensor, an acceleration sensor, or a myoelectric potential sensor. However, the detection unit 12 is not limited to the above-mentioned sensors.

The detection unit 12 is connected to the control unit 13. The connection between the detection unit 12 and the control unit 13 may be wired or wireless. In the case of this embodiment, the detection unit 12 is held by the mounting unit 18, which will be described later.

The detection unit 12 is arranged at a body part of the user 3 (hereinafter, referred to as a “detected part”) that changes in response to the target part during the operation of the user 3. The detected site may be the same site as the target site or may be a different site.

It is preferable that the detection unit 12 is arranged at a position that is not easily affected by the vibration generated by the vibration unit 11 in the mounted state. For example, when the target site is the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 (see FIG. 2), the detection unit 12 is at least 90 to 180 degrees from the vastus medialis 303 in the direction along the outer circumference of the knee of the user 3. , Preferably arranged at a position deviated by 120 degrees to 180 degrees.

When the target site is the muscle of the thigh of the user 3 (for example, vastus medialis 303, vastus lateralis), the detection unit 12 may be arranged on the lower leg of the user 3. It is preferable that the position of the detection unit 12 is a portion that changes (in other words, is active) in response to the movement of the target portion and is not easily affected by the vibration generated by the vibration portion 11. ..

As an example of the arrangement of the target portion and the detection unit 12, when the target portion is the lower leg portion of the user 3, the detection unit 12 is preferably arranged on the thigh portion of the user 3. When the target site is the muscle of the upper arm of the user 3, the detection unit 12 is preferably arranged on the forearm of the user 3. Further, when the target site is the muscle of the shoulder of the user 3, the detection unit 12 is preferably arranged on the upper arm of the user 3.

Further, the detection unit 12 may be covered with a vibration-proof member having a vibration-proof property. Each such configuration is effective in reducing erroneous detection in the detection unit 12.

For example, when the detected site is the joint of the user 3, the detection unit 12 detects the amount of displacement of the joint due to extension, flexion, rotation, or the like of the joint.

FIG. 2 shows the vibration applying device 1 when the detected portion is the knee of the user 3 and the target portion is the vastus medialis 303 of the leg of the user 3. The knee of the user 3 may include the knee joint and a portion around the knee joint (a part of the thigh and a part of the lower leg).

In the case of such a vibration applying device 1, the detection unit 12 has a first sensor 12a and a second sensor 12b. The first sensor 12a is an acceleration sensor and is arranged on the thigh 304 of the user 3 in the mounted state. In the case of the present embodiment, the first sensor 12a is held by the mounting portion 18 in a state of being covered with the vibration isolator member 18e.

The reason for providing the anti-vibration member 18e is that both the vibrating portion 11 and the first sensor 12a are arranged on the thigh portion 304. The anti-vibration member 18e makes it difficult for the vibration of the vibrating portion 11 to be transmitted to the first sensor 12a. This configuration is effective in improving the detection accuracy of the first sensor 12a. The anti-vibration member 18e may be omitted.

The second sensor 12b is an acceleration sensor and is arranged on the lower leg 305 of the user 3 in the mounted state. In the case of this embodiment, the second sensor 12b is not covered with the vibration isolator. The reason for this is that the vibrating portion 11 is arranged on the thigh portion 304, whereas the second sensor 12b is arranged on the lower leg portion 305. The second sensor 12b may be held by the mounting portion 18 in a state of being covered with the anti-vibration member.

The first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b each detect acceleration in a predetermined direction in the thigh 304 and the lower leg 305 during the operation of the user 3. The predetermined directions are, for example, three directions (see FIG. 2) of the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction that are orthogonal to each other.

The X direction coincides with the front-back direction of the user 3. The Y direction coincides with the left-right direction of the user 3. The Z direction coincides with the top and bottom directions. One side (for example, the front side, the right side, and the upper side) in each of the above directions is the positive direction. On the other hand, the other side (for example, the rear side, the left side, and the lower side) in each of the above directions is a negative direction. The foot 30 of the user 3 shown in FIG. 2 is the right foot of the user 3.

The detection unit 12 may have a third sensor 12c, which is an angle sensor, together with the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b. When the detected site is the knee of the user 3, the third sensor 12c is arranged so as to bridge from the thigh 304 to the lower leg 305 of the user 3. The third sensor 12c detects the angle of the knee joint of the user 3 (that is, the angle formed by the thigh 304 and the lower leg 305) during the operation of the user 3.

When the detected site is the elbow joint of the user 3, the first sensor 12a is arranged on the upper arm of the user 3 and the second sensor 12b is arranged on the forearm of the user 3 in the mounted state. To. In this case, the detection unit 12 may have a third sensor 12c, which is an angle sensor, together with the first sensor 12a and the second sensor 12b.

When the detected site is the elbow joint of the user 3, the third sensor 12c is arranged so as to extend from the upper arm portion of the user 3 to the forearm portion. When the detected site is the elbow joint of the user 3, the target site is the muscle of the arm of the user 3 (for example, the biceps brachii).

In addition to the above-mentioned sensors, the detection unit 12 may have a sensor that detects information about the body of the user 3. Information about the body of the user 3 is, for example, body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, fat mass, muscle mass, and the like.

Further, the detection unit 12 may have a sensor that detects information around the user 3. The information around the user 3 is, for example, temperature, humidity, and the like. Further, the detection unit 12 may have a sensor that detects the number of steps of the user 3 while the user 3 is walking. Further, the detection unit 12 may have a sensor that detects information about the position of the user 3.

[Control unit]
The control unit 13 (see FIG. 1) includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an input port, an output port, and the like.

When the detected value (physical quantity) received from the detection unit 12 satisfies a predetermined condition, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under a predetermined vibration condition. Specifically, the control unit 13 compares the detected value received from the detection unit 12 with a predetermined threshold value, and when the comparison result satisfies the vibration start condition (that is, the predetermined condition), the control unit 13 vibrates under a predetermined vibration condition. The part 11 is vibrated.

For example, the control unit 13 determines that the vibration start condition is satisfied when the detection value of the detection unit 12 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. On the other hand, the control unit 13 determines that the vibration start condition is not satisfied when the detection value of the detection unit 12 is smaller than a predetermined threshold value.

The control unit 13 controls the vibration unit 11 so as to vibrate at a vibration frequency of 45 Hz or more and 250 Hz or less. The control unit 13 may include a voltage control circuit that changes the vibration frequency by controlling the voltage applied to the vibration unit 11.

The control unit 13 may set the vibration time (vibration duration) of the vibration unit 11. In this case, the control unit 13 stops the vibration of the vibration unit 11 when the vibration time has elapsed.

As the predetermined threshold value, a value corresponding to the target portion, the detected portion, and the type of physical quantity detected by the detection unit 12 is stored in advance in the ROM or the like of the control unit 13. When the control unit 13 receives the detection value from the detection unit 12, the control unit 13 compares the received detection value with the stored predetermined threshold value.

A predetermined threshold value when the target site is the muscle of the user 3 will be described. The threshold value in this case is a value at which the control unit 13 can determine the contraction state of the target portion. The contracted state of the target site is also a state in which myoelectricity is exerted at the target site.

The predetermined threshold value may be a value at which the control unit 13 can determine the state before the myoelectricity is exerted at the target site by a predetermined time.

When the control unit 13 receives the detection values from a plurality of detection units (for example, an acceleration sensor and an angle sensor), the control unit 13 vibrates the vibration unit 11 when at least one of the detection values satisfies the vibration start condition. May be good.

However, from the viewpoint of improving the accuracy of the timing of applying vibration, when the control unit 13 receives the detected values from a plurality of detection units, the control unit 13 vibrates only when all the detected values satisfy the vibration start condition. It is advisable to vibrate the portion 11.

The control unit 13 compares the detected value received from the detection unit 12 with a predetermined threshold value, and stops the vibration of the vibration unit 11 when the comparison result satisfies the vibration end condition.

When performing each of the above determinations, the control unit 13 may remove a signal based on the vibration generated by the vibration unit 11 from the detection value received from the detection unit 12. As a method of removing such a signal, for example, a method of filtering the detected value received from the detection unit 12 by a filter (for example, a bandpass filter) for removing a predetermined frequency (cutoff frequency) can be mentioned. Be done. The frequency of the vibration generated by the vibration unit 11 is known because it is set by the control unit 13. The control unit 13 may set the same frequency as the vibration frequency set in the vibration unit 11 as the cutoff frequency of the filter. At this time, the control unit 13 may consider the time until the vibration generated by the vibration unit 11 is detected by the detection unit 12 as the delay time in the above-mentioned filtering process.

The control unit 13 controls the vibration conditions of the vibration unit 11. Vibration conditions include, for example, vibration time, amplitude, vibration frequency, and vibration pattern. The vibration conditions are acquired from the storage unit 15 and the external device 5. For example, the control unit 13 acquires a vibration pattern corresponding to the movement performed by the user from the storage unit 15 or the external device 5, and vibrates the vibration unit 11 with the acquired vibration pattern.

The amplitude is, for example, 0.05 mm to 5 mm. Preferably, the amplitude is 0.1 mm to 1 mm. Such an amplitude range is a range in which the user 3 can comfortably use the device without feeling any discomfort.

When there are a plurality of vibrating units 11, the control unit 13 executes the above-mentioned control for each vibrating unit 11. When there are a plurality of vibrating units 11, the control unit 13 may vibrate each vibrating unit 11 at the same timing. Alternatively, when there are a plurality of vibrating units 11, the control unit 13 may vibrate each vibrating unit 11 at different timings.

When the user identification information that identifies the user 3 and the target site identification information that identifies the target site to which vibration is applied are input, the control unit 13 sets the user identification information and the vibration conditions corresponding to the target site identification information. It may be acquired from the storage unit 15. Then, the control unit 13 may control the vibration unit 11 based on the acquired vibration conditions.

Further, the control unit 13 may acquire information about the vibration unit corresponding to the acquired vibration condition from the storage unit 15. The control unit 13 may control the vibration unit 11 so as to reproduce the configuration of the vibration unit (for example, the degree of eccentricity) based on the acquired information about the vibration unit.

Further, the control unit 13 may notify the user 3 by displaying the acquired information about the vibration unit 11 on a display unit (not shown) of the vibration applying device 1. The user 3 can reproduce the configuration of the vibrating unit 11 based on the notified information.

[Operation example 1]
Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 7, the operation example 1 of the control unit 13 when the movement of the user 3 is a walking movement, the detected part is the knee of the user 3, and the target part is the vastus medialis 303. explain. FIG. 7 shows the walking motion of the user 3 and each muscle of the user 3 corresponding to the walking motion (mastus medialis 303, medial hamstring 306, biceps femoris long head 307, and gastrocnemius lateral head 308 (see FIG. 2)). It is a figure which shows the myoelectric potential of).

The walking motion of the user 3 includes a bed contact period (also referred to as a stance phase) and a bed leaving period (also referred to as a swing phase). In one cycle of walking, the heel 302 of one foot 30 of the user 3 touches the ground 4 (user 3a), and then the heel 302 of one foot 30 touches the ground 4 again (user). It means the period until the state of 3f).

The floor contact period is a period during which the foot 30 of the user 3 is in contact with the ground 4 in one cycle of the walking motion (the period from the state of the user 3a to the state of the user 3c). On the other hand, the bed leaving period is a period during which the foot 30 of the user 3 is away from the ground 4 in one cycle of the walking motion (the period from the state of the user 3d to the state of the user 3f). In FIG. 7, the user 3a and the user 3f are in the same state.

Specifically, the starting point of the bed contact period (hereinafter referred to as the “bed contact period start point”) is the heel 302 of the foot 30 of the user 3 who is away from the ground 4 (in other words, is in the bed leaving state). This is the moment when the user touches the ground 4 (that is, the state of the user 3a and the user 3f).

On the other hand, at the end point of the bed contact period (hereinafter, referred to as "the end point of the bed contact period"), the toe 301 of the foot 30 of the user 3 who is in contact with the ground 4 (in other words, in the floor contact state) is the ground 4. It is the moment of leaving (that is, the state of the user 3c).

The start point of the bed leaving period (hereinafter, referred to as “the start point of the bed leaving period”) is the moment when the toe 301 of the foot 30 of the user 3 in the bed contact state separates from the ground 4 (that is, the state of the user 3d).

On the other hand, the end point of the bed leaving period (hereinafter, referred to as “the ending point of the bed leaving period”) is the moment when the heel 302 of the foot 30 of the user 3 who is in the bed leaving state touches the ground 4 (that is, the state of the user 3f). That is, the start point of the bed contact period overlaps with the end point of the bed leaving period. On the other hand, the end point of the bed contact period overlaps with the start point of the bed leaving period.

As shown in FIG. 7, the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 exerts myoelectricity at the start point of the bed contact period (which is also the end point of the bed leaving period) and the end point of the bed contact period (which is also the start point of the bed leaving period).

In the case of the present embodiment, the control unit 13 controls the vibration unit 11 so as to apply vibration to the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 during the bed contact period of the walking motion.

Specifically, the control unit 13 compares the detected value received from the detection unit 12 with a predetermined threshold value. Then, the control unit 13 determines whether or not the walking motion of the user 3 is in the floor contact period. As a result of the determination, when the walking motion of the user 3 is in the floor contact period, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under predetermined vibration conditions. That is, when the walking motion of the user 3 is in the floor contact period, the above-mentioned vibration start condition is satisfied.

The control unit 13 may determine whether or not the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the start point of the bed contact period (for example, 0.5 s before). Then, as a result of the determination, when it is determined that the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the start point of the floor contact period, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under a predetermined vibration condition. That is, when the walking motion is immediately before the start point of the bed contact period, the above-mentioned vibration start condition is satisfied.

According to such a configuration, the vibration of the vibrating portion 11 is efficiently applied to the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 at the start point of the bed contact period in which the myoelectricity of the vastus medialis 303 is exerted.

The control unit 13 may determine whether or not the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the end point of the bed contact period (for example, 0.5 s before). Then, as a result of the determination, when it is determined that the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the end point of the bed contact period, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under a predetermined vibration condition. That is, when the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the end point of the bed contact period, the above-mentioned vibration start condition is satisfied.

According to such a configuration, the vibration of the vibrating portion 11 is efficiently applied to the target portion of the user 3 at the end point of the bed contact period in which the myoelectricity of the vastus medialis 303 is exerted.

The control unit 13 may vibrate the vibration unit 11 for a predetermined time when the vibration start condition is satisfied. In this case, the predetermined time may be set to include both the start point of the bed leaving period and the end point of the bed contact period. The predetermined time may be set to include at least one of the start point of the bed leaving period and the end point of the bed contact period.

The control unit 13 may stop the vibration of the vibrating unit 11 between the start point of the bed leaving period and the end point of the bed contact period. In this case, the vibration at the start point of the bed leaving period and the vibration at the end point of the bed contact period become discontinuous.

For example, when the detection value (physical quantity) detected by the detection unit 12 is the angle of the knee joint of the user 3, if the predetermined threshold value is 180 °, it can be detected that the walking state of the user 3 is in the bed contact period. ..

The reason for this is that in the walking motion of the user 3, immediately before the heel 302 of the user 3 touches the ground (that is, the state of the user 3a in FIG. 7) and before and after the heel 302 of the user 3 leaves the bed (that is, the user in FIG. 7). This is because the knee joint angle is 180 ° in both cases (3b to 3c).

When the detection value of the detection unit 12 becomes 180 °, the control unit 13 determines that the walking motion of the user 3 is in the floor contact period, and vibrates the vibrating unit 11. Then, the control unit 13 sets, for example, the vibration time of the vibration unit 11 to 5 seconds. Alternatively, the control unit 13 compares the preset stop threshold value for stopping the vibration of the vibration unit 11 (for example, 170 °) with the detection value of the detection unit 12, and the detected value becomes the stop threshold value. In that case, the vibration of the vibrating unit 11 is stopped.

[Operation example 2]
Next, with reference to FIG. 7, operation example 2 of the control unit 13 when the operation of the user 3 is a walking operation and the target portion is the vastus medialis 303 will be described.

In the case of this example as well, the control unit 13 controls the vibration unit 11 so as to apply vibration to the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 during the floor contact period of the walking motion.

In the case of this example, the detection unit 12 detects the myoelectric potential of the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3. Therefore, in the case of this example, the first sensor 12a is an electromyographic sensor for measuring the myoelectric potential of the vastus medialis 303.

Specifically, the control unit 13 compares the detected value (myoelectric potential of the vastus medialis 303) received from the detection unit 12 with a predetermined threshold value. As shown in FIG. 7, the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 is larger than the other states at the start point of the bed contact period (also the end point of the bed leaving period. The states of the user 3a and the user 3f in FIG. 2) of the walking motion. Shows myoelectric potential.

The control unit 13 compares the detected value with a predetermined threshold value, and when it is determined that the walking motion of the user 3 is in the floor contact period, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under a predetermined vibration condition. Before making the above determination, the control unit 13 may perform filtering processing on the detected value to remove noise and accidental and minute muscle activity not caused by the walking motion of the user 3. ..

[Operation example 3]
Next, with reference to FIG. 7, an operation example 3 of the control unit 13 when the operation of the user 3 is a walking operation and the target portion is the vastus medialis 303 will be described.

In the case of this example as well, the control unit 13 controls the vibration unit 11 so as to apply vibration to the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 during the floor contact period of the walking motion.

In the case of this example, the detection unit 12 detects the myoelectric potential at the site where the myoelectric potential changes in correspondence with the vastus medialis muscle 303 during the walking motion of the user 3. For this purpose, the detection unit 12 has, for example, a fourth sensor 12d (see FIG. 2) for detecting the myoelectric potential of the medial hamstring 306 or the biceps femoris long head 307.

As shown in FIG. 7, immediately before the start point of the bed contact period (which is also the end point of the bed leaving period. The state of the user 3a and the user 3f in FIG. 7) of the walking motion in which the vastus medialis muscle 303 exerts myoelectricity, the medial hamstring 306 and biceps femoris long head 307 exhibit higher myoelectricity than other conditions.

Therefore, the control unit 13 compares the detected value received from the detection unit 12 (fourth sensor 12d) (that is, the myoelectric potential of the medial hamstring 306 and the biceps femoris long head 307) with a predetermined threshold value. , It can be determined that the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the bed contact period.

Then, the control unit 13 compares the detected value with a predetermined threshold value, and when it is determined that the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the bed contact period, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under a predetermined vibration condition.

According to the above configuration, since the state immediately before the myoelectricity of the vastus medialis 303 is exerted can be detected, even if there is a delay between the detection of the myoelectricity and the application of vibration, the vastus medialis 303 is efficiently used. Vibration can be applied.

The control unit 13 may make the above determination based on the myoelectric potentials at a plurality of sites where the myoelectric potentials change in correspondence with the vastus medialis muscle 303 during the walking motion of the user 3.

[Operation example 4]
Next, with reference to FIG. 7, an operation example 4 of the control unit 13 when the operation of the user 3 is a walking operation and the target portion is the vastus medialis 303 will be described.

In the case of this example as well, the control unit 13 controls the vibration unit 11 so as to apply vibration to the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 during the step of getting out of bed during the walking motion.

In the case of this example as well, similarly to the above-described operation example 3, the detection unit 12 detects the myoelectric potential at the site where the myoelectric potential changes in correspondence with the vastus medialis muscle 303 during the walking operation of the user 3. For this purpose, the detection unit 12 has, for example, a fifth sensor 12e (see FIG. 2) for detecting the myoelectric potential of the gastrocnemius lateral head 308.

As shown in FIG. 7, immediately before the start point of the walking motion in which the vastus medialis muscle 303 exerts myoelectricity (which is also the end point of the bed contact period; the state of the user 3d in FIG. 7), the gastrocnemius lateral head 308 is formed. It exerts higher myoelectricity than other conditions.

Therefore, the control unit 13 compares the detected value (that is, the myoelectric potential of the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle) received from the detection unit 12 (fifth sensor 12e) with a predetermined threshold value, so that the walking motion of the user 3 is in the bed leaving period. It can be determined that it is immediately before.

Then, the control unit 13 compares the detected value with a predetermined threshold value, and when it is determined that the walking motion of the user 3 is immediately before the bed leaving period, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under a predetermined vibration condition.

According to the above configuration, since the state immediately before the myoelectricity of the vastus medialis 303 is exerted can be detected, even if there is a delay between the detection of the myoelectricity and the application of vibration, the vastus medialis 303 is efficiently used. Vibration can be applied.

[Operation example 5]
Next, referring to FIG. 8, the movement of the user 3 is standing / sitting on the chair (hereinafter referred to as “standing / sitting movement”), and the target parts are the back muscle (back), the rectus femoris (thigh), and the like. An operation example 5 of the control unit 13 in the case of the tibialis anterior muscle (lower leg) will be described. The standing / sitting motion is a whole-body exercise that is not limited to the lower limbs, and the target site can be the back muscle (back), the rectus femoris muscle (thigh), and the tibialis anterior muscle (lower leg), which are particularly active.

As shown in FIG. 8, when standing up (when the state transitions from user 3b to user 3c in FIG. 8), the back muscle of user 3 is in a standing state with the buttocks separated from the chair (see user 3c in FIG. 8). Until then, it exerts myoelectricity.

In addition, the tibialis anterior muscle exerts myoelectricity when the angle of the ankle of the user 3 is less than 90 degrees. The state in which the angle of the ankle of the user 3 is less than 90 degrees is the state in which the buttocks of the user 3 are separated from the chair in FIG. 8 (the state of the user 3b in FIG. 8).

The rectus femoris muscle exerts myoelectricity in a state where the thigh portion rotates around the knee of the user 3 and the body is lifted. The state in which the thigh rotates around the knee of the user 3 and lifts the body means that the buttocks are separated from the chair (the state of the user 3b in FIG. 8) and the standing position (the user in FIG. 8) is shown. It is a state up to the state of 3c).

On the other hand, in the seating motion, the back muscle exerts myoelectricity when the state in which the trunk of the user 3 is tilted (the state of the user 3e in FIG. 8) is restored after sitting.

Further, in the seating motion, the tibialis anterior muscle exerts myoelectricity in a state where the angle of the ankle of the user 3 is less than 90 degrees. The state where the angle of the ankle is less than 90 degrees is the state immediately before the buttocks touch the chair (the state immediately before the user 3e in FIG. 8).

Further, in the seating motion, the rectus femoris muscle exerts myoelectricity in a state where the thigh portion rotates around the knee of the user 3 and the body descends. The state in which the thigh rotates around the knee of the user 3 and the body descends is the state from the state in which the user 3 starts the seating operation (the state of the user 3d in FIG. 8) to the state in which the buttocks touch the chair (the state in which the buttocks are attached to the chair). The state of the user 3e in FIG. 8).

In the case of this example, a sensor (not shown) constituting the detection unit 12 is arranged at a position where the myoelectricity of each target site (back muscle, tibialis anterior gold, and rectus femoris muscle) can be detected. Then, the control unit 13 compares the detected values received from each of these sensors with a predetermined threshold value, and determines whether or not each target portion is active. Then, as a result of the determination, when it is determined that the muscles of each target portion are active, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 under predetermined vibration conditions.

According to such a configuration, when the myoelectricity of the target portion is exerted, the vibration of the vibrating portion 11 is efficiently applied to the target portion of the user 3.

Other daily movements that use the upper limbs include "lifting luggage". In this case, the target site is the biceps brachii. The main activity timing of the biceps brachii is while the forearm is swiveled around the elbow.

[Communication Department]
The communication unit 14 communicates with the external device 5. The external device 5 is, for example, a computer, a smartphone, a wearable terminal, a server, or the like. The communication unit 14 is connected to an external device by wireless communication such as WiFi (registered trademark, Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless LAN, and NFC (Near Field Communication). The communication unit 14 may be connected to the external device 5 via a network 6 such as the Internet.

The communication unit 14 may perform mutual communication between the vibration applying device 1 mounted on the right foot of the user 3 and the vibration applying device 1 mounted on the left foot to synchronize the timing of vibration applying. ..

[Memory]
The storage unit 15 stores information about the user 3 (hereinafter, referred to as "user information"). The user information includes, for example, the ID of the user 3, the name of the user 3, information about the body of the user 3 such as height and weight, and vibration conditions of vibration given to the target portion of the user 3 in the past. The storage unit 15 stores each of the above-mentioned information for each user 3.

The vibration conditions include, for example, the amplitude, vibration frequency, vibration pattern, and vibration mode of vibrations applied in the past. The vibration pattern is not limited to vibration in which the frequency, amplitude, vibration time, etc. do not change, and includes vibration in which at least one of frequency, amplitude, and vibration time changes. The vibration mode is a vibration pattern provided for purposes such as muscle training, rehabilitation, and pain relief. The vibration mode may be composed of a combination of a plurality of vibration patterns. When the vibration mode includes a plurality of vibration patterns, the vibration patterns are switched at appropriate timings. Such vibration conditions are stored in the storage unit 15 in association with the target portion for each user.

The storage unit 15 stores the vibration condition of the vibration applied to the target portion (for example, the vibration frequency) and the information about the vibration unit 11 (for example, the information about the configuration of the weight 1106) for each user. That is, the storage unit 15 stores the configuration of the vibration unit 11 when the user is subjected to vibration in association with the target portion to which the vibration is applied and the vibration condition. Information regarding the configuration of the vibrating unit 11 is used when reproducing the configuration of the vibrating unit 11.

[Input section]
The input unit 16 acquires information for operating the vibration applying device 1 (hereinafter, referred to as “operation information”). The input unit 16 receives the operation information from an external device 5 such as a smartphone via the communication unit 14. Then, the input unit 16 sends the received operation information to the control unit 13.

The operation information is, for example, information on switching ON / OFF of the power supply of the vibration applying device 1, information on switching the frequency of vibration, and information on switching the pattern of vibration.

Further, the input unit 16 may receive information regarding the above-mentioned vibration conditions from an external device 5 such as a smartphone via the communication unit 14. The input unit 16 sends the received information to the storage unit 15. The storage unit 15 stores the information received from the input unit 16.

The user 3 can input the above-mentioned operation information and information regarding the vibration condition by using the application installed in the external device 5.

[Power supply part]
The power supply unit 17 supplies electric power to each unit constituting the vibration applying device 1. The power supply unit 17 is held by the mounting unit 18, which will be described later. The power supply unit 17 is, for example, a rechargeable battery, a dry battery, or the like. When the power supply unit 17 is a rechargeable type, the charging method may be a contact type or a non-contact type.

[Mounting part]
The mounting portion 18 is mounted around a target portion on the body of the user 3. In the mounted state, the mounting portion 18 holds the vibrating portion 11 at an appropriate position with respect to the surface to which the vibration is applied. Further, in the mounted state, the mounted portion 18 holds the detection unit 12 at an appropriate position with respect to the detected portion.

Such a mounting portion 18 is shaped like a supporter, for example. When the mounting portion 18 has a sleeve shape, the material of the mounting portion 18 is preferably a material having elasticity. Specific examples thereof include polyurethane, polyolefin-based elastomer, natural rubber, and silicone. Further, the mounting portion 18 may have a band shape such as a bandage or a band. When the mounting portion 18 is strip-shaped, the material of the mounting portion 18 is selected from various materials used for general supporters. Specific examples include nylon, polyester, polyurethane, cotton and the like. Further, the mounting portion 18 may be a member having adhesiveness. The material of the mounting portion 18 is not limited to the above case.

The mounting portion 18 may have a position adjusting mechanism (for example, a slide mechanism) for adjusting the position of the vibrating portion 11.

Further, the mounting portion 18 may be held so that the vibrating portion 11 can be removed. In this case, the mounting portion 18 may have more holding portions (not shown) for holding the vibrating portions 11 than the number of vibrating portions 11. In this case, the user 3 selects a holding unit for holding the vibrating unit 11 from a plurality of holding units.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 2 again, an example of the structure of the mounting portion 18 when the target site is the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 will be described. The mounting portion 18 has a substantially tubular supporter shape that is mounted from the thigh portion 304 to the lower leg portion 305 of the user 3's foot 30.

The mounting portion 18 has a first holding portion 18a and a second holding portion 18b. The first holding portion 18a holds the vibrating portion 11. The first holding portion 18a faces the surface of the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 in the mounted state.

The first holding portion 18a may have a position adjusting mechanism (not shown) capable of adjusting the position of the vibrating portion 11. The position adjusting mechanism is, for example, a slide mechanism. The first holding portion 18a may be removably held by the vibrating portion 11.

On the other hand, the second holding unit 18b holds the detecting unit 12. Specifically, the second holding portion 18b has a holding portion element 18c and a holding portion element 18d. The holding element 18c is arranged on the surface of the thigh 304 of the user 3 in the mounted state. The holding unit element 18c holds the first sensor 12a of the detecting unit 12.

On the other hand, the holding portion element 18d is arranged on the surface of the lower leg portion 305 of the user 3 in the mounted state. The holding unit element 18d holds the second sensor 12b of the detecting unit 12.

The mounting portion 18 may have a tightening adjusting mechanism for adjusting the tightening force in the mounted state. For example, the tightening adjustment mechanism is a belt type adjustment mechanism. In this case, the vibration applying device 1 may have a tightening determination means for determining whether or not the tightening force is appropriate in the mounted state.

The tightening determination means can be composed of a pressure sensor (not shown) and a control unit 13. The pressure sensor is held by the mounting portion 18. The pressure sensor detects information about the pressure between the mounting unit 18 and the user 3. Then, the pressure sensor sends information about the detected pressure to the control unit 13.

The control unit 13 determines whether or not the tightening force is appropriate based on the information regarding the pressure received from the pressure sensor.

[Display]
The vibration applying device 1 may have a display unit (not shown) that displays information regarding the state of the vibration applying device 1. The display unit displays, for example, vibration conditions.

[Information collection device]
The information collecting device 19 (see FIG. 1) is, for example, a server connected to the vibration imparting device 1 via a network 6 such as the Internet. The information collecting device 19 stores user information in the same manner as the above-mentioned storage unit 15.

The user information includes, for example, the ID of the user 3, the name of the user 3, information about the body of the user 3, vibration conditions when used in the past, and the like. The information collecting device 19 stores each of the above-mentioned information for each user 3.

The vibration conditions include, for example, the amplitude of vibration when applied in the past, the vibration frequency, the vibration pattern, the mode (for example, period, vibration time, vibration change, etc.), the switching pattern of the vibration frequency, and the like. Such vibration conditions are stored in the information collecting device 19 in association with the target portion for each user.

[Operation of vibration applying system]
Hereinafter, the operation of the vibration applying system S1 and the vibration applying device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the vibration applying system S1 and the vibration applying device 1 according to the present embodiment.

In the following description, the description of the contents overlapping with the description of each device constituting the vibration applying system S1 will be omitted.

In step S101, the detection unit 12 detects a change in the detected portion of the user 3 during the operation of the user 3. Then, the detected value (physical quantity) is sent to the control unit 13. The detection unit 12 detects a change in the detected portion at a predetermined time interval, and sends the detected value to the control unit 13.

In step S102, the control unit 13 compares the physical quantity received from the detection unit 12 with a predetermined threshold value. Then, in step S102, the control unit 13 determines whether or not the comparison result satisfies the vibration start condition. For example, the control unit 13 determines that the vibration start condition is satisfied when the walking motion of the user 3 is the above-mentioned floor contact period.

If it is determined in step S102 that the vibration start condition is not satisfied (“NO” in step S102), the control process shown in FIG. 9 ends. The control process shown in FIG. 9 is repeatedly executed at predetermined time intervals.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S102 that the vibration start condition is satisfied (“YES” in step S102), the control process shifts to step S103.

In step S103, the control unit 13 determines the vibration condition. The control unit 13 acquires the stored vibration conditions from, for example, the storage unit 15 or the information collecting device 19. The vibration conditions are as described above. Then, the control process shifts to step S104.

In step S104, the control unit 13 vibrates the vibrating unit 11 based on the vibration conditions determined in step S103. As a result, vibration is applied to the target portion of the user 3. Then, the control process ends.

[Action / effect of this embodiment]
According to the present embodiment having the above configuration, vibration can be applied to the operating user at an appropriate timing.

<Embodiment 2>
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a vibration applying system S2 according to the second embodiment.

[Vibration applying system]
Hereinafter, the vibration applying system S2 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The vibration applying system S2 includes a vibration applying device 2 and an information collecting device 26Y.

[Vibration applying device]
The vibration applying device 2 is a device for applying vibration to a target portion (for example, vastus medialis 303) in the body of the user 3. Such a vibration applying device 2 has a vibration unit 20, a mounting unit 21, and a device main body 22.

In the following description, the target parts of the user 3's body are, for example, the chest muscle, the abdominal muscle, the back muscle, the shoulder muscle, the arm muscle, the leg muscle, and the buttocks muscle of the user 3. And so on.

Examples of the chest muscle include the pectoralis major muscle. Abdominal muscles include, for example, the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and iliopsoas muscles. Back muscles include, for example, the erector spinae muscle, the latissimus dorsi muscle, the teres major muscle, the teres minor muscle, and the infraspinatus muscle. The shoulder muscles include, for example, the deltoid and trapezius muscles.

Arm muscles include, for example, the biceps brachii and triceps brachii. The muscles of the foot include, for example, the quadriceps femoris (rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus medialis, vastus lateralis) and hamstrings (biceps femoris, semi-tendon-like, semi-membranous). Can be mentioned. Gluteus muscles include, for example, the gluteus minimus, gluteus medius, and gluteus maximus.

[Vibration part]
Under the control of the control unit 24, the vibration unit 20 applies vibration to the target portion of the body of the user 3. The vibrating portion 20 is held by the mounting portion 21. At the time of use, the vibrating unit 20 is arranged in a state of being in direct or indirect contact with the vibrated surface of the target portion of the user 3.

The structure of the vibrating portion 20 is substantially the same as that of the vibrating portions 11, 11A to 11G of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the description of the vibrating portions 11, 11A to 11G of the first embodiment can be appropriately referred to the mounting portion 21 according to the present embodiment.

[Mounting part]
The mounting portion 21 is mounted around a target portion on the body of the user 3. In the mounted state, the mounting portion 21 holds the vibrating portion 20 at an appropriate position with respect to the surface to which the vibration is applied.

The mounting portion 21 has a holding portion 21a (see FIG. 11) for holding the vibrating portion 20. The holding portion 21a faces the surface of the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 in the mounted state. The structure of such a mounting portion 21 is substantially the same as that of the mounting portion 18 of the first embodiment described above. Therefore, the description of the mounting portion 18 of the first embodiment can be appropriately referred to the mounting portion 21 according to the present embodiment.

[Device body]
The apparatus main body 22 will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. The device main body 22 includes a notification unit 23, a control unit 24, a communication unit 25, a storage unit 26, an operation unit 27, an input unit 28, a display unit 29, and a power supply unit 26X.

The device main body 22 is wiredly connected to the vibrating unit 20 by a cable 26Z. However, the device main body 22 may be wirelessly connected to the vibrating unit 20.

In the case of this embodiment, the device main body 22 is a device dedicated to the vibration applying device 2. However, the device main body 22 does not have to be a device dedicated to the vibration applying device 2. When the device main body 22 is not a device dedicated to the vibration applying device 2, the device main body 22 may be, for example, a smartphone of the user 3 or a wearable terminal. In this case, the function of the device main body 22 may be realized by an application installed on the smartphone or wearable terminal of the user 3.

The device main body 22 may be attached to the mounting portion 21. Further, the device main body 22 may be integrally configured with the mounting portion 21. Hereinafter, each configuration of the device main body 22 will be described.

[Notification unit]
Under the control of the control unit 24, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information that assists the movement of the user 3.

The notification unit 23 notifies auxiliary information by, for example, at least one of characters, voice, sound, light, and heat.

Specifically, the notification unit 23 is composed of a sound output device such as a speaker, earphone, or headset, a display device such as a display, or a light emitting device such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Further, when the notification unit 23 notifies the notification information by heat, the notification unit 23 is composed of a thermal wire or a ceramic heater provided in a portion where the user 3 can feel heat dissipation. The notification unit 23 may be configured by a combination of these devices. The display device may be a device common to the display unit 29 described later.

The notification unit 23 is connected to the control unit 24 by wire or wirelessly. In the case of wireless, for example, the notification unit 23 and the control unit 24 are connected by WiFi (registered trademark, Wireless Fidelity) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

Table 1 shows examples of auxiliary information below.

In the following description, the exercise of the user 3 is a Patera setting which is an exercise effective for strengthening the muscle strength of the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3. During the Patera setting, the user 3 arranges a cushion 7 (for example, a towel, a ball) between the back surface of the extended knee 310 and the floor 4a, as shown in FIG. In this state, the user 3 presses the knee 310 against the cushion 7.

The auxiliary information differs depending on the exercise performed by the user 3. The auxiliary information shown in Table 1 is stored in, for example, the ROM of the control unit 24.

The auxiliary information shown in Table 1 corresponds to each step of the exercise program related to Patera setting. The auxiliary information shown in Table 1 is notified by the notification unit 23 by voice or characters. When notifying the user 3 of the start of the exercise program, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 1 in Table 1.

Further, when the notification unit 23 prompts the user 3 to move to a place suitable for exercise, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 2 in Table 1.

When the notification unit 23 informs the user 3 of the equipment used for exercise, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 3 in Table 1.

When the notification unit 23 informs the user 3 of how to use the device, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 4 in Table 1.

When the notification unit 23 informs the user 3 of the mounting position of the vibration unit 20, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 5 in Table 1. The information regarding the mounting position of the vibrating unit 20 is information regarding how to use the vibration applying device 2.

When the notification unit 23 conveys the posture during exercise to the user 3, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 6 in Table 1.

When transmitting information prompting exercise to the user 3, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to any one of the information 7 to 9 in Table 1.

When notifying the user 3 of the start of the exercise, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 10 in Table 1.

When the notification unit 23 informs the user 3 of the elapsed time of the exercise, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 11 in Table 1.

When notifying the user 3 of the end of the exercise, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 12 in Table 1.

When the exercise program is completed, the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 13 in Table 1.

The auxiliary information when the user 3 performs the Patera setting is not limited to the case shown in Table 1.

[Control unit]
The control unit 24 controls the operation of each unit constituting the vibration applying device 2. In particular, the control unit 24 controls the operations of the vibration unit 20 and the notification unit 23.

Specifically, the control unit 24 (see FIG. 10) includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an input port, an output port, and the like. In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 24 is provided on the device main body 22.

The control unit 24 causes the notification unit 23 to notify the auxiliary information according to the user's situation. When the user 3 selects the exercise program, the control unit 24 causes the notification unit 23 to notify the auxiliary information (see Table 1) according to the step of the exercise program.

The control unit 24 may detect the progress of the program in the exercise program. Specifically, the control unit 24 may determine whether or not the user 3 can appropriately proceed with the program based on various information detected from the user 3. Examples of such information include angles, myoelectric potentials, accelerations, displacements, loads, and angular velocities at a predetermined portion of the user 3.

For example, in the case of an exercise program related to Patera setting, the control unit 24 may determine whether or not the size of the cushion placed under the knee is appropriate based on the knee angle detected from the user 3. ..

Further, the control unit 24 may determine whether or not the vibrating unit 20 can be brought into contact with an appropriate target portion (muscle) based on the myoelectric potential detected from the target portion of the user 3.

Further, the control unit 24 may determine whether or not the user 3 is exerting an appropriate force on the target site based on the myoelectric potential detected from the target site of the user 3. In any case, if the user 3 is not able to properly advance the exercise program, the control unit 24 may control the notification unit 23 so as to leave appropriate auxiliary information to the user 3.

The control unit 24 controls the operation of the vibration unit 20 according to the auxiliary information notified to the notification unit 23. Specifically, the control unit 24 does not vibrate the vibrating unit 20 when the notification unit 23 notifies the information 1 to 6 in Table 1.

On the other hand, the control unit 24 notifies the notification unit 23 of the above-mentioned information prompting the movement (informations 7 to 9 in Table 1), and vibrates the vibration unit 20 after a predetermined time has elapsed.

The control unit 24 may vibrate the vibrating unit 20 immediately before the notification unit 23 notifies the information 10 in Table 1. The control unit 24 may vibrate the vibrating unit 20 at the same time as causing the notification unit 23 to notify the information 10 in Table 1. Alternatively, the control unit 24 may vibrate the vibrating unit 20 immediately after notifying the notification unit 23 of the information 10 in Table 1.

When the notification unit 23 notifies the notification unit 23 of the information 11 in Table 1, the control unit 24 continues to vibrate the vibration unit 20.

The control unit 24 may stop the vibration of the vibrating unit 20 at the same time as causing the notification unit 23 to notify the information 12 in Table 1. The control unit 24 may stop the vibration of the vibrating unit 20 immediately after notifying the notification unit 23 of the information 12 in Table 1.

The control unit 24 controls the vibration unit 20 so as to vibrate at a vibration frequency of 45 Hz or more and 250 Hz or less. The control unit 24 may include a voltage control circuit that changes the vibration frequency by controlling the voltage applied to the vibration unit 20.

Further, the control unit 24 has a function of switching the vibration frequency of the vibration unit 20 according to the movement of the user 3. Preferably, the control unit 24 has a function of switching the vibration frequency of the vibration unit 20 according to the movement of the user 3 in the range of 45 Hz or more and 250 Hz or less.

[Communication Department]
The communication unit 25 is a device that communicates with the external device 5 under the control of the control unit 24. The external device 5 is a computer, a smartphone, a wearable terminal, a server, or the like. The communication unit 25 is connected to an external device by wireless communication such as WiFi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless LAN, and NFC (Near Field Communication). The communication unit 25 may be connected to the external device 5 via a network 6 such as the Internet.

The communication unit 25 of the vibration applying device 2 mounted on the right foot of the user 3 communicates with the communication unit 25 of the vibration applying device 2 mounted on the left foot to synchronize the timing of vibration application. May be done.

[Memory]
The storage unit 26 is a device that stores information about the user 3 (hereinafter, referred to as “user information”) under the control of the control unit 24. As the user information, for example, the ID of the user 3, the name of the user 3, information about the body of the user 3 such as height and weight, the vibration condition of the vibration given to the target part in the past, and the vibration giving device 2 in the past were used. For example, an exercise program. The storage unit 26 stores each of the above-mentioned information for each user 3.

The storage unit 26 may store the vibration conditions of the vibration applied to the target portion in the past as a history. The vibration conditions include, for example, the amplitude, vibration frequency, vibration pattern, and vibration mode of vibrations applied to the target portion in the past. The vibration pattern is not limited to vibration in which the frequency, amplitude, vibration time, etc. do not change, and includes vibration in which at least one of frequency, amplitude, and vibration time changes. The vibration mode is a vibration pattern provided for purposes such as muscle training, rehabilitation, and pain relief. The vibration mode may be composed of a combination of a plurality of vibration patterns. When the vibration mode includes a plurality of vibration patterns, the vibration patterns are switched at appropriate timings. Such vibration conditions are stored in the storage unit 26 in association with the target portion for each user.

The storage unit 26 may store the vibration pattern of the vibration applied to the target portion in the past. In this case, the storage unit 26 may store the history of the vibration pattern of the vibration given to the target portion in the past. The storage unit 26 may store a standard pattern provided in advance and a user-set pattern set by the user.

When the storage unit 26 acquires new user information different from the stored user information, the storage unit 26 may update the stored user information with the new user information.

[Operation unit]
The operation unit 27 (see FIG. 11) is operated by the user when inputting information such as vibration conditions to the vibration applying device 2.

The operation unit 27 (see FIG. 11) is a rocker switch, a button switch, a rotary switch, or the like.

The operation unit 27 includes a power supply switching unit 27a, a mode switching unit 27b, and a vibration frequency adjusting unit 27c. The power supply switching unit 27a, the mode switching unit 27b, and the vibration frequency adjusting unit 27c are all composed of mechanical parts provided in the apparatus main body 22.

The power switching unit 27a is operated when switching the power ON / OFF of the power supply unit 26X. The mode switching unit 27b is operated when switching the mode of vibration generated by the vibrating unit 20. The vibration frequency adjusting unit 27c is operated when adjusting the vibration frequency of the vibration generated by the vibration unit 20.

The operation unit 27 (see FIG. 11) may be, for example, a touch panel displayed on the display unit 29 described later. The user can also operate the touch panel displayed on the display unit 29 to input the exercise program.

[Input section]
The input unit 28 receives the information input from the user by the operation of the operation unit 27. Then, the input unit 28 sends the received information to the control unit 24.

[Display]
The display unit 29 displays the vibration frequency and the vibration condition under the control of the control unit 24, as shown in FIG. The display unit 29 may display the usage status such as the progress status of the program. The display unit 29 is a display device such as a liquid crystal panel provided on the device main body 22. The display unit 29 displays, for example, the progress of the program with a progress meter.

Further, the display unit 29 may display information according to the auxiliary information notified by the notification unit 23.

Specifically, when the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 3 in Table 1, the display unit 29 may display information about the device.

Further, when the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 4 in Table 1, the display unit 29 may display information on how to use the device.

Further, when the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 5 in Table 1, the display unit 29 displays information on the muscles to which the vibration unit 20 is attached (for example, the vastus medialis 303, see FIG. 11). May be good.

Further, when the notification unit 23 notifies the auxiliary information corresponding to the information 6 in Table 1, the display unit 29 may display information regarding the posture of the user 3 during exercise.

[Power supply part]
The power supply unit 26X supplies electric power to each unit constituting the vibration imparting device 2. The power supply unit 26X is, for example, a rechargeable battery, a dry battery, or the like. When the power supply unit 26X is a rechargeable type, the charging method may be a contact type or a non-contact type.

[Information storage device]
The information collecting device 26Y (see FIG. 10) is, for example, a server connected to the vibration imparting device 2 via a network 6 such as the Internet. The information collecting device 26Y stores user information in the same manner as the above-mentioned storage unit 26. The user information is as described above.

[Operation of vibration imparting device]
Hereinafter, the operation of the vibration applying device 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the vibration applying device 2 according to the present embodiment.

In the following description, the description of the contents overlapping with the description of each device of the vibration applying device 2 described above will be omitted.

In step S201, the user 3 inputs selection information such as a vibration condition and an exercise program from the operation unit 27. The vibration conditions input here are, for example, a vibration frequency, a vibration pattern, and the like. Then, the control process proceeds to step S202.

The user 3 may instruct the operation unit 27 to use the vibration conditions and the exercise program stored in the storage unit 26. The control unit 24 acquires the vibration condition and the exercise program from the user information stored in the storage unit 26.

In step S202, the user 3 inputs the start of the exercise program from the operation unit 27. Upon receiving this input, the control unit 24 starts controlling the notification unit 23 and the vibration unit 20. Then, the control process shifts to step S203.

In step S203, the control unit 24 determines auxiliary information according to the situation of the user 3 in the exercise program. Then, the control process proceeds to step S204.

In step S204, the control unit 24 causes the notification unit 23 to notify the determined auxiliary information. Then, the control process proceeds to step S205.

In step S205, the control unit 24 determines whether or not to vibrate the vibrating unit 20 based on the auxiliary information determined in step S203.

For example, the control unit 24 determines that the vibrating unit 20 is vibrated when the auxiliary information determined in step S203 is information for promoting exercise (informations 7 to 9 in Table 1 above).

On the other hand, the control unit 24 does not vibrate the vibrating unit 20 when the auxiliary information determined in step S203 is information that does not require the vibrating unit 20 to vibrate (for example, information 1 to 6 in Table 1 above). Is determined.

If it is determined in step S205 that the vibrating unit 20 is not vibrated (“NO” in step S205), the control process proceeds to step S203. At this time, the control unit 24 appropriately advances the steps of the exercise program according to the situation of the user 3.

If it is determined in step S205 to vibrate the vibrating unit 20 (“YES” in step S205), the control process proceeds to step S206.

In step S206, the control unit 24 vibrates the vibrating unit 20 under the vibration conditions set in step S201. Then, the control process proceeds to step S207.

In step S207, the control unit 24 determines whether or not the exercise program is completed. If it is determined in step S207 that the exercise program has not ended (“NO” in step S207), the control process proceeds to step S203. At this time, the control unit 24 appropriately advances the steps of the exercise program according to the situation of the user 3.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S207 that the exercise program has ended (“YES” in step S207), the control process ends.

[Action / effect of this embodiment]
In the case of the vibration applying device 2 according to the present embodiment, since the vibrating unit 20 is vibrated after the notification unit 23 is notified of the information prompting the movement, the user 3 can move in accordance with the vibration. As a result, the user 3 can receive vibration at an appropriate timing.

<Embodiment 3>
The vibration applying system S2A having the vibration applying device 2A according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. In the vibration imparting device 2A of the present embodiment, the device main body 22A and the vibration unit 20A are connected by wireless communication (for example, WiFi, Bluetooth). The device main body 22A is a smartphone, a wearable terminal, or the like of the user 3.

The vibrating unit 20A has a vibrating unit side communication unit 200 for communicating with the communication unit 25 of the device main body 22A. The vibrating portion 20A is held by the mounting portion 21.

The device main body 22A has a display unit 29A. The display unit 29A is, for example, a touch screen display of a smartphone. The display unit 29A displays an icon associated with the application installed on the device main body 22A. In the case of this embodiment, the icon displayed on the display unit 29A is the operation unit 27A.

In the case of the present embodiment, the display unit 29A displays the progress display icon 29a, the first setting icon 29b, the second setting icon 29c, the third setting icon 29d, and the start / stop icon 29e.

The progress display icon 29a indicates the progress of the exercise program. The user 3 can fast-forward or rewind the exercise program by sliding the progress display icon 29a.

The first setting icon 29b is operated when setting the vibration intensity or the vibration frequency. The user 3 can set the vibration intensity or the vibration frequency step by step by operating the first setting icon 29b.

The second setting icon 29c is operated when setting the vibration frequency. The user 3 can set the vibration frequency by sliding the second setting icon 29c. The third setting icon 29d is operated when setting the vibration pattern. The start / stop icon 29e is operated when starting or stopping the exercise program.

The icon displayed on the display unit 29A is not limited to the above-mentioned icon, and may be various icons corresponding to the function of the vibration imparting device 2A. Other configurations and actions / effects are the same as in the case of the first embodiment described above.

[Verification test]
The vibration unit included in the vibration applying devices 1, 2 and 2A according to each of the above-described embodiments applies vibration having a vibration frequency of 45 Hz or more and 250 Hz or less to the target portion of the user 3. The range of such a vibration frequency is a range determined based on the verification test 1 and the verification test 2 conducted by the inventors. Hereinafter, the verification test 1 and the verification test 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 15A to 15C and FIG.

[Verification test 1]
In the verification test 1, a dumbbell lifting test was performed using the vibrating unit 11 (see FIG. 3A) described in the first embodiment. The specifications of the vibrating unit 11 are as follows.

[Vibration part specifications]
Motor body 1105: DC motor manufactured by MinebeaMitsumi (product name: PKN12)
Radius R of weight 1106: 6 mm
Eccentricity of weight 1106: 1 mm
Eccentricity of eccentric motor 1102: 1/6 ≒ 0.16
Distance between motor body 1105 and weight 1106 L: 3 mm
Vibration amplitude: 0.13 mm

In the verification test 1, the biceps brachii 312 of the user 3 is a target site to which vibration is applied by the vibrating portion 11. Therefore, the vibrating portion 11 is arranged on the vibrated surface of the biceps brachii 312. Further, in order to detect the amount of muscle activity (myoelectric potential) of the biceps brachii muscle 312 of the user 3, a myoelectric potential sensor (manufactured by Wada Seisakusho) was placed on the biceps brachii muscle 312.

The weight of the dumbbell 8 is such that the dumbbell lifting exercise described later can be repeated without fatigue. Further, the weight of the dumbbell 8 is set so that the amount of muscle activity (myoelectric potential) to be measured is sufficiently larger than that of noise or the like. The heavier the dumbbell 8, the greater the amount of muscle activity.

The dumbbell 8 was placed on a mounting table 9a arranged next to the user 3 (in the figure, on the right side of the user 3) except when the user 3 holds the dumbbell 8. A fall prevention member 9b such as a towel was arranged between the upper surface of the mounting table 9a and the dumbbell 8. Hereinafter, the position of the dumbbell 8 on the mounting table 9a is referred to as the basic position of the dumbbell.

The basic position of the dumbbell 8 is the wrist on the arm to be tested with the user 3 having both legs open to the shoulder width and both arms hanging along the side surface of the body (in the case of this embodiment, the right wrist 311 of the user 3). Is in the vicinity of.

The dumbbell lifting exercise was performed in the following order. First, the user 3 stands at the position shown in FIG. 15A and naturally hangs both arms along the side surface of the body (hereinafter, this state is referred to as "both arms hanging state"). Next, the user 3 grasps the dumbbell 8 on the mounting table 9a with his right hand together with the start instruction (see FIG. 15B). Then, the user 3 rotates the forearm of the right arm by 90 ° around the right elbow and lifts the dumbbell 8 (see FIG. 15C). The user 3 maintains the state in which the dumbbell 8 shown in FIG. 15C is lifted until an end instruction is given (hereinafter, this state is referred to as a “lifting maintenance state”). The user 3 returns the dumbbell 8 to the basic position of the dumbbell together with the end instruction. Then, the user 3 shifts to the drooping state of both arms. The user 3 must shift to the lift maintenance state within 5 seconds from the start instruction.

The operation time (that is, the time from the start instruction to the end instruction) was set to 10 seconds. After 10 seconds of operation, a 20 second break was provided. A set of 10 seconds of movement and a 20-second break was defined as one exercise, and three exercises were defined as one set. When performing a plurality of sets, a break of 20 seconds was provided between the sets.

The verification test 1 includes a vibration applying test in which vibration of a predetermined vibration frequency is applied to the biceps brachii muscle 312, and a comparative test in which vibration is not applied.

In the vibration imparting test, 6 sets of dumbbell lifting exercises were performed for each vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11. For each set, the electromyogram integral value obtained by integrating the electromyographic value of the biceps brachii 312 was measured. Then, the average value of the 6 sets of EMG integrated values was obtained as _{the EMG integrated value I 1 of the vibration imparting test.}

In the comparative test, 6 sets of dumbbell lifting exercises were performed without applying vibration. For each set, the electromyogram integral value obtained by integrating the electromyographic value of the biceps brachii 312 was obtained. Then, the average value of the 6 sets of EMG integrated values was obtained as _{the EMG integrated value I 2 of the comparative test.}

[Result of verification test 1]
Table 2 below shows the results of verification test 1 performed under the above conditions.

There are five subjects, A1 to E1. Table 2 shows the test results corresponding to the vibration frequencies of the subjects A1 to E1 and the vibrating unit 11. The test result is the ratio (increase rate) (I ₁ / I ₂ ) of _{the EMG integral value I 1} of the vibration imparting test to the EMG _{integral value I 2 of the comparative test.} If a significant difference is found by the t-test (significance level: 0.05), "*" is added next to the above ratio.

As shown in Table 2, a significant difference was observed in at least 20% (1 in 5) of the subjects in the vibration frequency range of 34 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less.

Further, as shown in Table 2, a significant difference was observed in at least 40% or more (2 out of 5) subjects in the range of vibration frequency of 71 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less.

Further, as shown in Table 2, a significant difference was observed in at least 60% or more (3 out of 5 or more) subjects in the range of vibration frequency of 94 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less.

In the significant difference evaluation in Table 2, the percentage of subjects with significant differences was "A" when it was 80% or more and 100% or less, "B" when it was 50% or more and less than 80%, and "C" when it was 20% or more and less than 50%. , 0% or more and less than 20% is "D". The significance evaluation is higher as the proportion of subjects with significant differences is larger.

In the evaluation of the rate of increase in Table 2, the percentage of subjects whose rate of increase was greater than 1.05 was "S" when the rate of increase was 80% or more and 100% or less, "A" when the rate of increase was 50% or more and less than 80%, and 20% or more and 50. Less than% is "B", and 0% or more and less than 20% is "C". The rate of increase evaluation is higher as the proportion of subjects whose rate of increase is greater than 1.05 is larger.

As described above, from the result of the verification test 1, it was confirmed that the vibration frequency of the vibrating portion 11 can obtain a predetermined significant difference in the range of 34 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less in the dumbbell lifting motion. From Table 2 above, it can be seen that the higher the vibration frequency, the higher the evaluation of the significance difference and the evaluation of the rate of increase. From such a tendency, it can be reasonably determined that a significant difference can be obtained even at 30 Hz, which is a value near 34 Hz, as in the case of 34 Hz. Therefore, 30 Hz is set as the lower limit value of the vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11. Further, in consideration of the above-mentioned tendency and the limit frequency that can be perceived by humans, 500 Hz is set as the upper limit value of the vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11. Further, from the above-mentioned tendency, it can be reasonably determined that at 200 Hz, which is a value near 199 Hz, a significant difference almost the same as in the case of 199 Hz can be obtained. For the above reasons, it was determined that the vibration frequency applied to the target portion by the vibrating unit 11 is preferably 30 Hz or more and 500 Hz or less, and more preferably 30 Hz or more and 200 Hz or less.

[Verification test 2]
Hereinafter, the verification test 2 carried out by the inventors will be described.

[contents of the test]
In this test, the Patera setting test was performed using the vibrating unit 11 described in the first embodiment. The specifications of the vibrating unit 11 are the same as those in the first embodiment described above.

In this test, the target site to which vibration is applied by the vibrating portion 11 is the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3. Therefore, the vibrating portion 11 is arranged to face the vibration-applied surface of the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3. Further, a myoelectric potential sensor for detecting the muscle activity amount (myoelectric potential) of the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3 was arranged in the vastus medialis 303 of the user 3.

As shown in FIG. 16, the user 3 lies on the chair 9c with the upper body raised by 60 °. Further, the waist and ankle of the user 3 are fixed to the chair 9c by the first fixing portion 9d and the second fixing tool 9e.

Further, the user 3 arranges the cushion 7 between the back surface of the knee 310 and the upper surface of the chair 9c. Angle theta ₃ of the knee 310 of the user 3, and a 150 ° or 155 ° or less.

This example was carried out in the following order. First, the user 3 presses the knee 310 against the cushion 7 together with the start instruction from the state shown in FIG. The user 3 maintains the state in which the knee 310 is pressed against the cushion 7 until an end instruction is given (hereinafter, this state is referred to as a "maintenance state"). The user 3 relaxes the force of the knee 310 and stops pressing the cushion 7 together with the end instruction.

The operation time (that is, the time from the start instruction to the end instruction) was set to 5 seconds. After 5 seconds of operation, a 15 second break was provided. The combination of a 5-second motion and a 15-second break was defined as one exercise, and three exercises were defined as one set. When performing a plurality of sets, a break of 20 seconds was provided between the sets.

This test includes a vibration applying test in which vibration of a predetermined vibration frequency is applied to the vastus medialis 303, and a comparative test in which vibration is not applied.

In the vibration imparting test, 6 sets of Patera setting exercises were performed for each vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11. For each set, the electromyogram integral value obtained by integrating the electromyographic value of the vastus medialis 303 was measured. Then, the average value of the 6 sets of EMG integrated values was obtained as _{the EMG integrated value I 1 corresponding to the vibration frequency.}

In the comparative test, 6 sets of Patera setting exercises were performed without applying vibration. For each set, the electromyogram integral value obtained by integrating the electromyographic value of the vastus medialis 303 was obtained. Then, the average value of the 6 sets of EMG integrated values was obtained as the _{EMG integrated value I 2 in the comparative test.}

[Result of verification test 2]
Table 3 shows the results of the verification test 2 performed under the above conditions.

The subjects are 10 people A2 to I2. Table 3 shows the test results corresponding to the vibration frequencies of the subjects A2 to J2 and the vibrating unit 11. The test result is the ratio (increase rate) (I ₁ / I ₂ ) of _{the EMG integral value I 1} of the vibration imparting test to the EMG _{integral value I 2 of the comparative test.} If a significant difference is found by the t-test, "*" is added next to the above ratio.

As shown in Table 3, in the range of vibration frequency of 173 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less, a significant difference was observed by t-test in 3 out of 10 persons (that is, 30%). That is, in the range where the vibration frequency was 173 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less, a significant difference was observed in at least 30% or more (3 out of 10) subjects.

Further, when the vibration frequencies are 140 Hz, 173 Hz, and 199 Hz, the proportion of subjects whose increase rate is larger than 1.05 is 25% or more.

The significance evaluation in Table 3 was "A" when the percentage of subjects with significant differences was 80% or more and 100% or less, "B" when 50% or more and less than 80%, and "C" when 20% or more and less than 50%. , 0% or more and less than 20% is "D". The higher the ratio, the higher the significant difference evaluation. In the evaluation of the rate of increase in Table 3, the percentage of subjects whose rate of increase was greater than 1.05 was "A" when the rate of increase was 80% or more and 100% or less, "B" when the rate of increase was 50% or more and less than 80%, and 20% or more and 50. If it is less than%, it will be "C", and if it is 0% or more and less than 20%, it will be "D". The rate of increase evaluation is higher as the proportion of subjects whose rate of increase is greater than 1.05 is larger.

As described above, from the results of this test, in the Patera setting exercise, a significant difference was observed in the subjects of 30% or more (3 out of 10) in the range where the vibration frequency of the vibrating part 11 was 173 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less. Was done. Further, it was confirmed that the increase rate of the subjects of at least 25% or more (2.5 out of 10) was larger than 1.05 in the range where the vibration frequency of the vibrating unit 11 was 140 Hz or more and 199 Hz or less. ..

Japanese application of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-068881 filed on March 30, 2018, Japanese application of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-068905 filed on March 30, 2018, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-086557 filed on April 27, 2018. All disclosures of the specifications, drawings and abstracts contained in the Japanese application are incorporated herein by reference.

The vibration applying device according to the present invention can be applied to various user movements and to the target part of the user.

S1 Vibration applying system 1 Vibration applying device 11, 11A to 11G Vibration part 1101 Housing 1102, 1102B, 1102C, 1102D, 1102E Eccentric motor 1103 Accommodation space 1104 Fixing member 1105 Motor body 1106, 1106B, 1106C, 1106D Weight 1107 Rotating shaft 1108 Hole 1108a First eccentric hole 1108b Second eccentric hole 1108c Third eccentric hole 1109 First weight element 1109a First mating surface 1109b First outer peripheral surface 1109c, 1109d First through hole 1109e to 1109g First hole element 1110 Second weight element 1110a Second mating surface 1110b Second outer peripheral surface 1110c, 1110d Second screw hole 1110e to 1110g Second hole element 1111 First surface 1112 Joint part 11a to 11g Housing 111d, 111g First housing element 112d, 112g Second housing element 113d , 113g Third housing element 114d First joint part 115d Second joint part 11m, 11n, 11p Vibration transmission member 111p First element 112p Second element 113p Third element 114p First joint part 115p Second joint part 11a1, 11b1, 11d1, 11d2, 11d3 Vibration applying surface 11e1, 11f1, 11g1, 11g2, 11g3 Vibration applying surface 11x1, 11x2, 11x3 Convex part 11y1, 11y2 Flat surface part 12 Detection part 12a First sensor 12b Second sensor 12c Third sensor 12d Fourth Sensor 12e Fifth sensor 13 Control unit 14 Communication unit 15 Storage unit 16 Input unit 17 Power supply unit 18 Mounting unit 18a First holding unit 18b Second holding unit 18c Holding unit element 18d Holding unit element 18e Vibration isolation member 19 Information collecting device S2 , S2A Vibration applying system 2, 2A Vibration applying device 20, 20A Vibration unit 200 Vibration unit side communication unit 21 Mounting unit 21a Holding unit 22, 22A Device body 23 Notification unit 24 Control unit 25 Communication unit 26 Storage unit 27, 27A Operation unit 27a, power supply switching unit 27b mode switching unit 27c vibration frequency adjustment unit 28 input unit 29, 29A display unit 29a progress display icon 29b first setting icon 29c second setting eye Con 29d Third setting icon 29e Start / stop icon 26X Power supply 26Y Information gathering device 26Z Cable 3, 3a to 3f User 30 Legs 301 Toes 302 Heels 303 Vastus medialis 304 Thighs 305 Lower legs 306 Inner hamstrings 307 Thighs Biceps femoris long head 308 gastrocnemius lateral head 309 vibration-applied surface 310 knee 311 right wrist 312 biceps femoris 4 ground 4a floor 5 external device 6 network 7 cushion 8 dumbbell 9a mount 9b fall prevention member 9c chair 9d first fixed Tool 9e Second fixing part

Claims (51)

A vibrating part that is held by the user's body and applies vibration to the target part of the body that changes with the movement of the user.
A control unit that vibrates the vibrating unit at a vibration frequency corresponding to the movement of the user is provided.
Vibration imparting device. The control unit has means for changing the vibration frequency by changing the voltage applied to the vibration unit.
The vibration applying device according to claim 1, wherein the vibrating unit has means for changing the vibration frequency by a mechanical mechanism. The vibrating part has an eccentric motor and
The vibration applying device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the eccentric motor has a rotation shaft and an eccentric portion fixed to the rotation shaft and whose center of gravity is eccentric with respect to the rotation center of the rotation shaft. The eccentric portion has a center of gravity distance adjusting mechanism for changing the distance between the rotation center of the rotation axis and the center of gravity.
The vibration applying device according to claim 3, wherein the degree of eccentricity of the eccentric motor is changed from 0.1 or more to 0.8 or less according to the distance. The vibration applying device according to claim 4, wherein the range of the distance to which the center of gravity distance adjusting mechanism can be changed is 0.2 mm or more and 30 mm or less. The vibration applying device according to claim 3, wherein the eccentric portion is a fan-shaped weight provided on the rotating shaft. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a storage unit that stores the target portion and the vibration frequency of the vibration applied to the target portion for each user. The item according to any one of claims 3 to 6, further comprising a storage unit that stores the vibration frequency given to the target portion and the information about the eccentric part corresponding to the vibration frequency for each user. Vibration imparting device. The vibration applying device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the storage unit stores a vibration pattern of the vibration. The storage unit stores a plurality of the vibration patterns and stores them.
The vibration applying device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit acquires at least one vibration pattern from the plurality of vibration patterns from the storage unit. The storage unit stores the vibration pattern in association with the movement performed by the user.
The vibration imparting device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the control unit acquires a vibration pattern corresponding to the movement performed by the user from the storage unit and vibrates the vibration unit with the acquired vibration pattern. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.
A vibration imparting system that is connected to the vibration imparting device and includes an information storage device that stores information on the target portion and information on the vibration frequency to be imparted to each target portion for each user. It is a vibration applying method that applies vibration to a target part that changes with the movement of the user.
A step of setting the vibration frequency of the vibration generated by the vibrating part to a frequency corresponding to the movement of the user, and
Including a step of vibrating the vibrating portion in response to a change in the target portion.
Vibration application method. Further, a detection unit for detecting a change in a detected portion in the body during the operation of the user is provided.
The vibration applying device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit vibrates the vibrating unit when the detected value detected by the detecting unit satisfies a predetermined condition. The vibration applying device according to claim 14, wherein the control unit determines whether or not the detected value satisfies the predetermined condition by comparing the detected value with a predetermined threshold value. The vibration applying device according to claim 15, wherein the control unit determines the vibration conditions based on the result of comparing the detected value with the predetermined threshold value. The vibration according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the control unit excludes a signal based on the vibration applied to the body by the vibration unit from a signal based on a change in a detected portion in the body detected by the detection unit. Grant device. The vibration applying device according to claim 16, further comprising a storage unit that stores the vibration pattern as the vibration condition. The storage unit stores a plurality of the vibration patterns and stores the vibration patterns.
The vibration applying device according to claim 18, wherein the control unit acquires at least one of the plurality of vibration patterns from the storage unit. The vibration applying device according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the storage unit stores information on the operation, information on the target portion, and vibration conditions as user information for each user. The vibration imparting device according to claim 20, wherein the storage unit updates the stored user information with the new user information when new user information different from the stored user information is acquired. .. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 14 to 21, wherein the control unit controls the operation of the vibration unit based on information acquired from an external device. A mounting unit to be mounted on the user while holding the vibrating unit, the detecting unit, and the control unit is further provided.
The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 14 to 22, wherein the vibrating portion faces the target portion when the mounting portion is mounted on the user. The target site is the muscle of the user,
The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 14 to 23, wherein the detected site is a joint of the user that changes according to the contraction of the muscle. The muscle is the muscle of the user's thigh and
The vibration applying device according to claim 24, wherein the detected portion is the knee of the user. The vibration applying device according to claim 25, wherein the detection unit includes a first sensor mounted on the thigh of the user and a vibration isolator member covering the first sensor. The vibration applying device according to claim 26, wherein the detection unit has a second sensor mounted on the lower leg of the user. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 14 to 27,
A vibration imparting system that is connected to the vibration imparting device and includes an information storage device that stores information on the operation, information on the target portion, and vibration conditions as user information for each user. The vibration addition according to claim 28, wherein the information storage device updates the stored user information with the new user information when new user information different from the stored user information is acquired. system. It is a vibration applying method that applies vibration to the target part of the user's body.
A step of detecting a change in a detected portion in the body during the operation of the user,
A step of applying vibration to the target portion when the detection value detected by the detection unit satisfies a predetermined condition is included.
Vibration application method. A notification unit for notifying auxiliary information that assists the user's exercise is further provided.
The vibration imparting according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the notification unit to notify the auxiliary information according to the situation of the user and operates the vibration unit in response to the notified auxiliary information. apparatus. The auxiliary information includes information that encourages the exercise.
The vibration applying device according to claim 31, wherein the control unit vibrates the vibrating unit after the notification unit notifies the information prompting the movement. The vibration applying device according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the auxiliary information includes information on how to use the vibration applying device. The vibration applying device according to claim 33, wherein the information regarding the usage method includes information regarding a mounting position of the vibrating portion in the body. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 34, wherein the auxiliary information includes information about an instrument used by the user during the exercise. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein the auxiliary information includes information regarding the posture of the user during the exercise. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 36, wherein the notification unit notifies the auxiliary information by at least one of sound, light, heat, vibration, characters, and voice. A storage unit for storing the vibration pattern of the vibration is further provided.
The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 37, wherein the control unit vibrates the vibration unit based on the vibration pattern acquired from the storage unit. The vibration applying device according to claim 38, wherein the vibration pattern includes a preset standard pattern, a user setting pattern set by the user, and a vibration pattern of vibration previously applied to the target portion. The vibration applying device according to claim 38 or 39, wherein the storage unit stores a history of vibration patterns applied to the target portion. The storage unit stores, for each user, at least one type of information among information on the movement, information on the target portion, and information on a vibration pattern given to the target portion as user information. The vibration applying device according to any one of 38 to 40. The vibration imparting device according to claim 41, wherein the storage unit updates and stores the user information with the new user information when new user information different from the stored user information is acquired. A mounting portion to be mounted on the user while holding the vibrating portion is further provided.
The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 42, wherein the vibrating portion faces the target portion when the mounting portion is mounted on the user. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 43, further comprising a display unit for displaying information on a usage status. The vibration applying device according to claim 44, wherein the display unit displays information corresponding to the auxiliary information. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 45, wherein the target portion is the muscle of the user. The vibration applying device according to claim 46, wherein the muscle is a muscle of the thigh of the user. The vibration applying device according to any one of claims 31 to 47,
Information connected to the vibration imparting device and storing at least one type of information of the motion, the target portion, and the vibration pattern assigned to the target portion as user information for each user. A vibration applying system equipped with a collecting device. It is a vibration applying method that applies vibration to the target part of the user's body.
A step of notifying the user of information prompting the movement of a part including the target part, and
A vibration applying method including a step of applying vibration to the target portion after notifying the information for promoting the movement. The vibration imparting device according to claim 1, wherein the vibration frequency is 30 Hz or more and 500 Hz or less. The vibration applying method according to claim 13, wherein the vibration frequency is 30 Hz or more and 500 Hz or less.

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