WO2009066816A1

WO2009066816A1 - Stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy

Info

Publication number: WO2009066816A1
Application number: PCT/KR2007/005950
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tae-Hoon Kim
Original assignee: Hilsco Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2007-11-23
Filing date: 2007-11-23
Publication date: 2009-05-28

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy. The stimulus apparatus includes a main body for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to regions, a main driver for inputting and outputting control signals, a keyboard driver for indicating the input of key signals, an abdominal belt driver for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to the abdominal region, a pair of thigh belt drivers for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to the thighs, a pair of arm and calf belt drivers for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to the arms and calves, an ultrasonic massage device driver for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to regions, a Kegel stimulator driver for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to the sphincters, a warmer driver for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to regions, a micro-current stimulator driver for outputting control signals to apply stimuli to regions, and a qi and blood stimulator driver for outputting control signal to apply stimuli to the qi and blood portions.

Description

STIMULUS APPARATUS FOR MULTIPLE PHYSICAL

THERAPY

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates, in general, to a qi and blood stimulus apparatus, and, more particularly, to a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy that applies stimuli to various qi and blood portions of a human body or portions requiring physical therapy, thereby improving health, mitigating various pains, and alleviating obesity to reduce weight. Background Art

[2] Generally, 'qi and blood' is the term that is used in Oriental Medicine and refers to energy sources that supply energy to the viscera and the internal organs. According to the classical theory of traditional Oriental Medicine, internal organs for maintaining the normal functions of a human body are the six viscera and the six bowels, and these are regulated through the smooth circulation of qi and blood that are circulated throughout a human body in a constant rhythm. Although internal organs for maintaining the normal functions of a human body are said to be the five viscera and the six bowels, that is, the five viscera including the liver, the heart, the spleen, the lungs and the kidneys, and the six bowels including the gall, the stomach, the large intestine, the small intestine, the triple energizer and the urinary bladder, Oriental Medicine mentions the six viscera and the six bowels by including the pericardium (a sack that surrounds the heart) in addition to the other five viscera. The channels through which qi and blood are circulated are the meridians and collaterals, and qi is circulated outside the meridians and collaterals, and blood is circulated inside the meridians and collaterals. Accordingly, through the smooth circulation of qi and blood, not only do the viscera and the internal organs gain health, but so does a living body. The conception of the energy sources of a living body, called qi and blood, results from wisdom that was acquired by the ancient Chinese in daily life.

[3] The Oriental Medicine-based 365 qi and blood portions are distributed throughout a human body, and there are many cases where the functions of a human body are deteriorated and pain is caused due to a hindrance in the circulation of qi and blood. Accordingly, various types of medical instruments for improving the functions of a human body, mitigating pains and promoting health by applying stimuli to qi and blood portions have been commercialized. [4] Moreover, most conventional medical instruments for physical therapy are configured to provide ultrasonic waves, laser beams, micro-current (intermediate or low frequency bio-current), or heat, and such conventional medical instruments are each intended to provide physical therapy for a relevant portion of a human body. As a result, there is a problem in that medical instruments for relevant physical therapies must be purchased separately. Disclosure of Invention Technical Problem

[5] Accordingly, the present invention has been made keeping in mind the above problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy that can be applied to portions requiring physical therapy, such as qi and blood portions or portions in pain which are distributed throughout the entire human body, and to any portions requiring an alleviation of obesity to reduce weight.

[6] Another object of the present invention is to selectively radiate low frequency ultrasonic waves, heat, micro-current and laser beams to the neck, spine, arms, thighs, abdomen, sphincters and joints of a human body, thereby producing thermal effects in the deep portions of muscles, ligaments, joint portions or portions between bones and muscles, to radiate harmless low-output laser beams to a human body, thereby curing various diseases, reducing symptoms and alleviating obesity, and to generate ultrasonic waves and/or laser beams and/or micro-current and thus to increase the temperature of the tissues of a human body and generate mechanical force, thereby activating the tissues, reducing the hardening of joints, mitigating pains, reducing the tension of muscles, promoting the flow of blood and realizing an obesity alleviating effect to reduce the weight of the human body.

[7] Still another object of the present invention is to display operational status based on the use of various functions through a display unit and, simultaneously, issue guidance voices, thereby improving the convenience of use through audio-visual notification.

[8] A further object of the present invention is to enable captions to be displayed through the display unit, thereby allowing aurally handicapped persons to usefully use the apparatus, and to enable various advertisements or guidance text to be displayed using a caption function, thereby improving the functions of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy. Technical Solution [9] In order to accomplish the above objects, the present invention provides a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy, including a main body for outputting control signals so as to apply stimuli to regions of a human body to perform physical therapy; a main driver provided in the main body, connected to the respective drivers via an interface, and configured to input and output control signals so as to enable operation; a keyboard driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to indicate input of key signals, settings and operating status so as to enable operation; an abdominal belt driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to the abdominal region of the human body using heat, laser beams, ultrasonic waves and micro-current; a pair of thigh belt drivers connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to the thighs of the human body using ultrasonic waves and micro-current; a pair of arm and calf belt drivers connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to the arms and calves of the human body using ultrasonic waves and micro-current; an ultrasonic massage device driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to respective regions of the human body to massage the respective regions using ultrasonic waves; a Kegel stimulator driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to the sphincters of the human body using micro-current to prevent incontinence of urine; a warmer driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to body regions, including a neck and spine of the human body, using heat; a micro-current stimulator driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to respective regions of the human body using micro-current; and a qi and blood stimulator driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signal so as to apply stimuli to the qi and blood portions and skin of the human body using laser beams and ultrasonic waves.

Advantageous Effects

[10] The stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention has effects in that it enables all or part of ultrasonic waves, heat, microcurrent and laser beams to be radiated through all or part of the abdominal belt, the arm and calf belts, the thigh belts, the qi and blood stimulator, the micro-current stimulator, the warmer, the Kegel stimulator and the ultrasonic massage device according to a user's selection using the plurality of drivers provided in the main body, so that composite physical therapy can be applied to various regions of a human body requiring physical therapy, such as qi and blood portions or portions in pain which are distributed throughout the human body, with the result that, by increasing the temperature of the tissues of the human body and generating mechanical force, the tissues can be activated, the hardening of joints can be reduced, pains can be mitigated, the tension of muscles can be reduced, and the flow of blood can be promoted.

[11] Furthermore, the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention may be intended to produce an obesity alleviating effect by stimulating the regions of a user's body requiring weight reduction, such as the abdomen, the thighs, the arms, the calves and/or the neck, using one or more relevant stimulators.

[12] Moreover, the present invention has the effect of displaying operational status based on the use of various functions through the display unit and, simultaneously, issuing guidance voices, thereby improving the convenience of use through audio- visual notification, and also has the effect of enabling captions to be displayed through the display unit, thereby allowing aurally handicapped persons to usefully use the apparatus, and the effect of enabling various advertisements or guidance text to be displayed using a caption function, thereby improving the functions of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy. Brief Description of the Drawings

[13] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[14] Fig. 2 is a configuration diagram showing the connection of various stimulators to the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy;

[15] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[16] Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the main body driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[17] Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing a keyboard device on the front side of the main body of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[18] Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing the abdominal belt driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[19] Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a pair of thigh belt drivers of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[20] Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing a pair of arm and calf belt drivers of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[21] Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing the ultrasonic massage device driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[22] Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing the Kegel stimulator driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[23] Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing the warmer driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[24] Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing the micro-current stimulator driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention;

[25] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing the qi and blood stimulator driver of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention; and

[26] Figs. 14 to 21 are flowcharts showing the operation of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention. Mode for the Invention

[27] A stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings by means of preferred embodiments of the present invention.

[28] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a configuration diagram showing the connection of various stimulators to the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy, and Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy.

[29] First of all, according to the present invention, the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy is configured to output control signals to apply stimuli to predetermined regions of a user's human body requiring physical therapy so as to cure various diseases, reduce symptoms or alleviate obesity to reduce weight, as shown in Fig. 1. The stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy includes a main body 100, and a support 145 having a predetermined height is provided in the main body, and thus it can be provided at a height convenient for a user to use the apparatus. The support 145 is made of synthetic resin or metal, and the height of the support 145 may be adjusted. Furthermore, the support 145 is provided with a plurality of casters 146 at the bottom thereof for pushing or pulling the apparatus.

[30] The main body 100 may be provided with stimulation devices having various purposes, and the stimulation devices are connected to connection terminals 121 provided on both sides of the main body 100, thereby enabling data communication such as the transmission and reception of control signals.

[31] Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 2, the stimulation devices that may be used in a state of being connected to the main body 100 include an abdominal belt 101 configured to be worn on a user's abdomen, a plurality of, preferably a pair of, thigh belts 102 and 103 and arm and calf belts 104 and 105 configured to be worn on the thighs, arms and calves, an ultrasonic massage device 106 for performing massage by applying ultrasonic waves to a human body, a Kegel stimulator 107 configured to stimulate the sphincters, a warmer 108 configured to supply heat to a human body, a micro-current stimulator 109 configured to output micro-current to a human body, and a qi and blood stimulator 110 configured to be worn around the region of the neck.

[32] Although the main body 100 is operated through the manipulation of relevant keys of its own keyboard, a remote control 300 capable of remotely controlling relevant stimulation devices for the operation of the main body 100 is provided.

[33] Since a plurality of drivers is embedded in the main body 100, relevant stimulation devices may be used in a state of being connected via interfaces.

[34] Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing a main driver provided in the main body 100. The main driver is connected to respective drivers embedded in the main body 100 via interfaces, and then inputs and outputs various control signals for performing operation. The main driver includes a first microcomputer 111 that can be programmed to input and output control signals. Furthermore, the main driver is provided with a Switched-Mode Ibwer Supply (SMPS) 112 configured to convert applied Alternating Current (AC) power into driving power and output the driving power, an external communication port unit 113 used to perform short range communication (RS-232C) with the outside, an internal interface unit 114 used to perform data communication with the drivers provided in the main body 100, and an abdominal belt interface unit 115 used to performed data communication particularly with the abdominal belt driver. Furthermore, the main driver is provided with an ultrasonic wave driver 116 for generating ultrasonic waves and a micro-current driver 117 for generating microcurrent. The main driver further employs a power driver 118 configured to supply power to generate heat, a heater temperature control unit 120 provided with a temperature detection sensor, and an overheating temperature fuse 119, thereby providing dual safety measures against overheating.

[35] Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing a keyboard driver provided in the main body 100. The keyboard driver is connected to the main driver via an interface, and Fig. 5 shows the input, setting and operation of various keys for performing operation. The keyboard driver includes a second microcomputer 131 that can be programmed to input and output control signals. Furthermore, the keyboard driver includes an external communication port unit 138 used to perform short range communication (RS-232C) with the outside and an internal interface unit 139 used to perform data communication with the drivers provided in the main body 100.

[36] Meanwhile, a plurality of display units 132 and 133 is provided above the front surface of the keyboard of the main body 100. Although the display units 132 and 133 are preferably formed of a pair of Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs), any display device for providing visual notification may be used as the display units 132 and 133. Although the first display unit 132 and the second display unit 133 may display the same content at the same time, it is preferred that they be independently operated and provide separate notifications. Furthermore, guidance for operation and captions for advertising may be displayed through the display units 132 and 133. Captions can be configured to be input when an external device upgrades or updates various programs and data via the external communication port unit 138. Furthermore, it is also possible to update and upgrade various programs or data, including caption data, in real time online.

[37] The second microcomputer 131 of the keyboard driver is provided with a plurality of encoders 134 and 135, the encoders are connected to jog dials 143 and 144 on both sides of the lower portion of the front surface of the keyboard, and thus they can operate in conjunction with each other when temperature, time and intensity are being controlled. Furthermore, a keyboard input unit 137 provided with a plurality of keys for performing the various operations of the main body 100 is provided at the center of the front surface of the keyboard.

[38] A voice output unit 140 is formed by embedding a voice processor, and is provided with memory for synthesizing and outputting voices. That is, although it is preferred that voices related to the operation of the main body 100 be produced and output through synthesis, it is possible for previously stored voices to be output. A voice signal output from the voice output unit 140 is amplified to a predetermined level by the amplification unit 141, and is then output through the speaker 142.

[39] As described above, operational status can be checked and learned via notification through the display units 132 and 133 based on the manipulation of the keys of the keyboard input unit 137 and/or via voices through the speaker 142. The keyboard driver is provided with a remote control reception unit 136 to receive and process signals from the remote control 300 at a remote location.

[40] Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an abdominal belt driver provided in the main body 100. The abdominal belt driver is connected to the respective drivers embedded in the main body 100 via interfaces and inputs, and outputs various control signals used for performing operation. That is, the abdominal belt driver outputs control signals used to apply stimuli to the abdomen of the human body using heat, a laser beam, ultrasonic waves or micro-current. The abdominal belt driver includes a third microcomputer 151 that can be programmed to allow the input and output of control signals. The abdominal belt driver further includes an internal power control unit 152 configured to control the applied internal power of the abdominal belt 101, an external communication port unit 153 used to perform short range communication (RS-232C) with the outside, an internal interface unit 154 used to perform data communication with the drivers provided in the main body 100, and a driver interface unit 155 used to perform data communication with the abdominal belt. Furthermore, the abdominal belt driver is provided with a laser output unit 156 for generating low frequency laser beams and a micro-current output unit 157 for intermediate and low frequency microcurrent. Moreover, the abdominal belt driver employs a power driver 158 configured to supply power to generate heat, a heater temperature control unit 160 provided with a temperature detection sensor, and an overheating temperature fuse 159, thereby providing dual safety measures against overheating.

[41] The abdominal belt 101 connected to the abdominal belt driver via an interface contains a semi-permanent stainless steel surface heating element therein, and is provided with a cover in which ceramic powders are blended together. The cover is formed by blending ceramic powders with synthetic leather or soft synthetic resin, and is configured such that far infrared rays are radiated from the ceramic when heat is produced.

[42] Fig. 7 shows a thigh belt driver 170 for operating the thigh belt. The thigh belt driver

170 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to the thigh of a human body using ultrasonic waves and micro-current. The thigh belt driver 170 is provided with an ultrasonic wave output unit 171 for outputting ultrasonic wave signals having a predetermined frequency in response to applied electrical signals and a micro-current output unit 172 for generating intermediate and low frequency micro-current.

[43] Fig. 8 shows an arm and calf belt driver 180 for operating the arm and calf belt. The arm and calf belt driver 180 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to the arm of a human body using ultrasonic waves and micro-current. The arm and calf belt driver 183 is provided with an ultrasonic wave output unit 181 for outputting ultrasonic wave signals having a predetermined frequency in response to applied electrical signals and a micro-current output unit 182 for generating intermediate and low frequency micro-current.

[44] Fig. 9 shows an ultrasonic massage device driver 190 for operating the ultrasonic massage device. The ultrasonic massage device driver 190 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to respective regions of a human body so as to massage them using ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic massage device driver 190 is provided with an ultrasonic wave output unit 191 for outputting ultrasonic wave signals having a predetermined frequency in response to applied electrical signals.

[45] Fig. 10 shows a Kegel stimulator driver 200 for operating the Kegel stimulator. The

Kegel stimulator driver 200 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to the sphincter of a human body using microcurrent so as to prevent the incontinence of urine. The Kegel stimulator driver 200 is provided with a micro-current output unit 201 for generating intermediate and low frequency micro-current.

[46] Fig. 11 shows a warmer driver 210 for operating the warmer. The warmer driver 210 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to various regions, including the neck and spine of a human body, using heat. The warmer driver 210 includes a plurality of heater control units 211 for controlling the temperature of heater in the warmer, a plurality of temperature detection sensors 212 for detecting the temperature of the heater, and a plurality of overheating temperature fuses 213 for preventing the overheating of the heater. That is, the reason why each of the numbers of heater control units 211, temperature detection sensors 212 and overheating temperature fuses 213 is plural is that another element can continuously operate when any one element undergoes failure, such as the stopping of operation, thereby preventing erroneous operation attributable to the overheating of the warmer. Furthermore, the warmer 108 is provided with ceramic for radiating far infrared rays, and thus it can produce warming and far infrared ray effects.

[47] Fig. 12 shows a micro-current stimulator driver 220 for operating the micro-current stimulator. The micro-current stimulator driver 220 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to respective regions of a human body using micro-current. The micro-current driver 220 is provided with a micro-current output unit 221 for generating intermediate and low frequency microcurrent.

[48] Fig. 13 shows a qi and blood stimulator driver 230 for operating the qi and blood stimulator. The qi and blood stimulator driver 230 is connected to the main driver via an interface, and outputs control signals to apply stimuli to the qi and blood portions and skin of a human body using laser beams and ultrasonic waves.

[49] The qi and blood stimulator driver 230 is provided with a laser output unit 231. A laser beam having a predetermined frequency, output from the qi and blood stimulator 110, preferably has low output intensity, for example, about 1 mW and a wavelength of 620 μm, but the output intensity and wavelength thereof may vary depending on the region or range of application. Furthermore, the qi and blood stimulator driver 230 is provided with an ultrasonic wave output unit 233 for outputting ultrasonic wave signals having a predetermined frequency in response to applied electrical signals. Furthermore, the qi and blood stimulator driver 230 is provided with an internal power control unit 232 for controlling the applied internal power of the qi and blood stimulator 110.

[50] Furthermore, an automatic pattern function is provided to sequentially operate a plurality of stimulators that is connected to the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention. The automatic pattern function enables ultrasonic waves and micro-current to be generated in a programmed sequence when operation is performed in a situation where a user wears respective stimulators connected to the main body 100. This automatic pattern function is intended to enable a user to multiply the effect of physical therapy or symptom reduction.

[51] The operation of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention will be described with reference to the flowchart of the attached Fig. 14 below.

[52] First, when the power switch of the stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy according to the present invention is turned on, main operation is performed, an interrupt is set by a timer at intervals of 0.5 msec through data initialization, the reception of various communication data values, the processing of received data, the update of the display, the processing of input from the remote control, the keyboard and the jog dial and voice output are controlled. Furthermore, the timer interrupt setting is performed through the processing of received remote control data, the updating of the display and voice output control. [53] With regard to the interrupt setting, a transmission interrupt sends information about the presence of transmission data, the state of execution and termination, the intensity or state of micro-current, the state of ultrasonic massage, the state of warming, the state of the abdominal belt and an automatic pattern number from the start of transmission.

[54] Furthermore, an interrupt for receiving the transmission interrupt stores received data and clears a relevant reception flag. At this time, a check routine that determines whether the start and end of a communication protocol has been reached, checks the reception of data and a command CMD, and processes the received data is gone through. The check routine performs the point initialization of the received data, the storage of the received data in a buffer, or the termination of a reception state in response to the reception of a communication protocol and a command CMD.

[55] Furthermore, initial settings are performed by manipulating the power switch through the keyboard of the main body 100, and data about a function input through another function switch of the keyboard or the remote control or a value input through the jog dial is sent such that a relevant function is performed as soon as power status is checked, and, simultaneously, relevant display is performed on the display unit.

[56] Detailed operation will now be described in addition to the above fundamental functions. Referring to Fig. 14, when power is applied to the main body 100 and the operation of the main body 100 starts, the initialization of input/output K) status, the initialization and initial screen of the display unit, the initialization of the remote control and the initialization of buzzer operation are realized through the initialization of the main processor at step SlO.

[57] When power is applied to the main body 100 and the operation of the main body 100 starts, whether a key signal is input through the keyboard input unit 137, or whether a key signal is input through the remote control 300, so as to activate the function of a relevant stimulator of the stimulus apparatus, is determined at step SlOO or S300. Accordingly, this step is performed to determine weather a key signal has been input through the keyboard input unit 137 or through the remote control 300. Thereafter, data based on the input of the key signal through the keyboard input unit 137 or the remote control 300 is received at step S200, and the relevant received data is processed at step S210.

[58] Fig. 15 shows the case where a key signal input through the keyboard input unit 137 of the main body 100 corresponds to key command processing 1. First, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the abdominal belt 101, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the thigh belts 102 and 103, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the arm and calf belts 104 and 105, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the ultrasonic massage device 106, or whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the qi and blood stimulator 110 is determined at step Sl 11, Sl 12, Sl 13, Sl 14 or Sl 15. ff it is determined that any one of the key signals has been input at step Sl 11, Sl 12, Sl 13, Sl 14 or Sl 15, the operational status of a relevant function is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step Sl 16, a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step Sl 17, and a relevant stimulator is operated by sending relevant data to a relevant driver at step S118.

[59] Fig. 16 shows the case where a key signal input through the keyboard input unit 137 of the main body 100 corresponds to key command processing 2. Whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the micro-current stimulator 109, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the Kegel stimulator 107, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the warmer 108, or whether a signal under consideration is an automatic pattern key signal is determined at step S 121, S 122, S 123 or S 124.

[60] ff it is determined that any one of the key signals has been input at step S 121, S 122,

S 123, or S 124, the operational status of a relevant function is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step S 125, a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step S 126, and a relevant stimulator is operated by sending relevant data to a relevant driver at step S 127.

[61] Fig. 17 shows the case where a key signal input through the keyboard input unit 137 of the main body 100 corresponds to key command processing 3. The first jog dial 143 is turned up at step S131 or down at step S135, or the second jog dial 144 is turned up at S136 or down at S137. The up or down operational status of the first jog dial 143, that is, temperature, time or intensity, is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step S 132, a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step S 133, and relevant data is sent to a relevant driver at step S 134. Alternatively, the up or down operational status of the second jog dial 144, that is, scrolling through a menu, is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step S 138, a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step S 139, and relevant data is sent to a relevant driver at step S 140.

[62] Fig. 18 shows the case where a key signal input through the remote control 300 at a remote location corresponds to remote control command processing 1 that belongs to the remote control command processing 1, 2, and 3 of Fig. 14. Whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the abdominal belt 101, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the thigh belts 102 and 103, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the arm and calf belts 104 and 105, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the ultrasonic massage device 106, or whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the qi and blood stimulator 110 is determined at step S311, S312, S313, S314 or S315. f it is determined that any one of the key signals has been input from the remote control 300 at step S311, S312, S313, S314 or S315, the operational status of a relevant function is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step S316, a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step S317, and a relevant stimulator is operated by sending relevant data to a relevant driver at step S318.

[63] Fig. 19 shows the case where a key signal input through the remote control 300 at a remote location corresponds to remote control command processing 2. Whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of the micro-current stimulator 109, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of Kegel stimulator 107, whether a signal under consideration is a key signal for the operation of warmer 108, or whether a signal under consideration is an automatic pattern key signal is determined at step S321, S322, S323 or S324.

[64] ff it is determined that any one of the key signals has been input at step S321, S322,

S323, or S324, the operational status of a relevant function is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step S325, a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step S326, and a relevant stimulator is operated by sending relevant data to a relevant driver at step S327.

[65] Fig. 20 shows the case where a key signal input through the remote control 300 at a remote location corresponds to remote control command processing 3. ff the key signal is a mute key input signal from the remote control 300 at step S331, temperature, time or intensity setting is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step S332, the issuance of a buzzer sound is stopped by turning off the buzzer at step S333, and switching to a mute state is performed by turning off voice guidance at step S334. When a mute key signal is input again, the display of the display unit 132 and 133 is performed, buzzer sounds are activated, and guidance voices are output. Through the remote control command processing 3, when an up key signal is input at step S335 or a down key signal is input at step S336 through the remote control 300, a state based on the manipulation of the up or down key, that is, scrolling through a menu, is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 S337, and a buzzer sound is issued by turning on the buzzer at step S338.

[66] Meanwhile, Fig. 21 shows the case where received data is processed in response to a key signal input from the keyboard input unit 137 or remote control 300. Whether the temperature of the heat of the warmer is received, whether the intensity of input is received, or whether the temperature of the abdominal belt is received is determined at step S211, 213 or 215. The temperature of the heat, the intensity of the input, or the temperature of the abdominal belt is displayed through the display unit 132 or 133 at step 212, 214 or 216.

[67] Although, in the foregoing description, the present invention has been illustrated and described in conjunction with the specific embodiments, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made within a range that does not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention set forth in the attached claims. Industrial Applicability

[68] The present invention relates to a stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy.

The stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy enables all or part of ultrasonic waves, heat, micro-current and laser beams to be radiated through all or part of the abdominal belt, the arm and calf belts, the thigh belts, the qi and blood stimulator, the micro-current stimulator, the warmer, the Kegel stimulator and the ultrasonic massage device according to a user's selection using the plurality of drivers provided in the main body. Accordingly, composite physical therapy can be applied to various regions of a human body requiring physical therapy, such as qi and blood portions or portions in pain that are distributed throughout the human body. As a result, by increasing the temperature of the tissues of the human body and generating mechanical force, the tissues can be activated, the hardening of joints can be reduced, pains can be mitigated, the tension of muscles can be reduced, and the flow of blood can be promoted.

Claims

[1] A stimulus apparatus for multiple physical therapy, comprising: a main body for outputting control signals so as to apply stimuli to regions of a human body to perform physical therapy; a main driver provided in the main body, connected to the respective drivers via an interface, and configured to input and output control signals so as to enable operation; a keyboard driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to indicate input of key signals, settings and operating status so as to enable operation; an abdominal belt driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to an abdominal region of the human body using heat, laser beams, ultrasonic waves and micro-current; a pair of thigh belt drivers connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to thighs of the human body using ultrasonic waves and micro-current; a pair of arm and calf belt drivers connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to arms and calves of the human body using ultrasonic waves and micro-current; an ultrasonic massage device driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to respective regions of the human body to massage the respective regions using ultrasonic waves; a Kegel stimulator driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to sphincters of the human body using micro-current to prevent incontinence of urine; a warmer driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to body regions, including a neck and spine of the human body, using heat; a micro-current stimulator driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signals so as to apply stimuli to respective regions of the human body using micro-current; and a qi and blood stimulator driver connected to the main driver via an interface, and configured to output control signal so as to apply stimuli to qi and blood portions and skin of the human body using laser beams and ultrasonic waves.

[2] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the main driver, the keyboard driver and the abdominal belt driver are each provided with a microcomputer, and each comprise an internal interface unit for communication with the respective drivers and an external communication port unit for data communication with external devices outside the main body.

[3] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the qi and blood stimulator driver, the thigh belt drivers, the arm and calf belt drivers, and the ultrasonic massage device driver are each provided with an ultrasonic wave output unit.

[4] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the abdominal belt driver, the thigh belt drivers, the arm and calf belt drivers, the micro-current stimulator driver, and the Kegel stimulator driver are each provided with a micro-current output unit.

[5] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the abdominal belt driver and the qi and blood stimulator driver are each provided with a laser output unit.

[6] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the main driver, the abdominal belt driver, and the warmer driver are each provided with a heater temperature control unit having a temperature detection sensor and an overheating temperature fuse to provide double safety measures against overheating, and the warmer driver is provided with a plurality of temperature detection sensors, a plurality of heater temperature control units, and a plurality of overheating temperature fuses.

[7] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the main driver further comprises an ultrasonic wave driver, a micro-current driver, a Switched- Mode Ibwer Supply (SMPS), an abdominal belt interface unit, and a power driver.

[8] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the keyboard driver comprises a plurality of display units, a plurality of encoders, a remote control reception unit, a keyboard input unit, a voice output unit, an amplification unit, and a speaker.

[9] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 8, wherein the keyboard driver enables guide messages for operation or captions for advertising to be displayed through a display unit.

[10] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the abdominal belt driver comprises an internal power control unit and a driver interface unit.

[11] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein the qi and blood stimulator driver comprises an internal power control unit.

[12] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein devices connected to the respective drivers comprise an abdominal belt, thigh belts, arm and calf belts, a qi and blood stimulator, a micro-current stimulator, a warmer, a Kegel stimulator, and an ultrasonic massage device.

[13] The stimulus apparatus as set forth in claim 12, wherein the abdominal belt comprises a stainless steel surface heating element for warming, and is provided with a cover in which ceramic powders are blended together.