WO2009104444A1 - Massage machine and air distribution unit - Google Patents

Abstract

An air distribution unit (7) for delivering air, supplied from a pump (6), to air cells (A-H) has an input port (P1), output ports (D1-D8), and a unit body (14) having distribution blocks (11, 12, 13). Each distribution block (11, 12, 13) has a branch section for flow paths, and this incrementally increases, starting with the input port (P1), the number of flow paths untill the output ports (D1-D8). The air distribution unit further has a switching device and a control device. The switching device collectively switches, for each distribution block (11, 12, 13), the direction of flow of air at each branch section. The control section controls the switching device so that air can flow between the input port (P1) and the output ports (D1-D8).

Description

Massage machine and air distribution unit

The present invention relates to a massage machine including a plurality of air actuators that operate by supplying and discharging air, and an air distribution unit applied to the massage machine.

2. Description of the Related Art A chair-type massage machine is known in which a plurality of bag-shaped air cells (air actuators) that can be expanded and contracted are provided on a backrest or a seat. When air (air) is supplied to these air cells, the air cells expand, whereby the user's body is pressed and massage is performed. Such a chair-type massage machine including a plurality of air cells includes a pump that discharges air and an air distribution unit that supplies air supplied from the pump to each air cell (for example, a special feature). No. 2005-87765 (see FIG. 3)).
The conventional air distribution unit has a plurality of solenoid valves, and at least one solenoid valve is connected to one air cell (or a pair of air cells for massaging one place). Thereby, the air sent from the pump to the air distribution unit is supplied to the air cell through the open electromagnetic valve, and the air cell expands. On the other hand, the air cell contracts by closing the solenoid valve.

In recent years, there is a massage machine that can increase the number of air cells in the massage machine having the air cells as described above and increase the number of massage parts in the user's body. Therefore, when one or a plurality of solenoid valves are required for one air cell as in the prior art, increasing the number of air cells increases the number of peripheral devices including solenoid valves and wiring and piping for this purpose. . As a result, the configuration of the massage machine becomes complicated and the power consumption increases.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a massage machine that can be simplified in configuration even if there are many air actuators (air cells) that are operated by air, and an air distribution unit that is applied to the massage machine.

In order to achieve the above object, a massage machine of the present invention includes a pump that discharges air, a plurality of air actuators that operate by supplying and discharging air, and air that is supplied from the pump and that air is supplied to the plurality of air. An air distribution unit having a flow path formed therein so that the air can be sent to the actuator, and a control unit for controlling the operation of the air actuator. The air distribution unit is supplied with air from the pump. Input ports, a plurality of output ports respectively connected to the plurality of air actuators, and a plurality of distribution sections arranged in a direction from the input ports to the plurality of output ports. Each of the branch portions of the flow path is formed so that the flow path is applied from the input port to the plurality of output ports. A unit main body configured to increase for each distribution unit; and a switching unit that is provided for each distribution unit and switches the flow direction of the air in the branching unit in units of the distribution unit. The control unit switches the flow path by controlling the switching unit in order to select an output port through which air can flow between the plurality of output ports and the input port. To do.

Further, the present invention is an air distribution unit having a flow path formed therein so that air supplied from a pump that discharges air can be sent to a plurality of air actuators that operate by supplying and discharging air. And an input port to which air is supplied from the pump, a plurality of output ports respectively connected to the plurality of air actuators, and a plurality of distribution sections arranged in a direction from the input port to the plurality of output ports. In addition, each of the distribution sections is formed with a branch portion of the flow path, so that the flow paths increase from the input port to the plurality of output ports for each distribution section. A plurality of unit main bodies, and a switching unit that is provided for each distribution unit and collectively switches the flow direction of air in the branching unit in units of the distribution unit. To select the output port that can be from among the output ports of flowing the air between said input port, said switching unit is one that the flow path is controlled is switched.

According to this massage machine and the air distribution unit, in the unit main body portion of the air distribution unit, a plurality of distribution sections are arranged in the direction from the input port to the plurality of output ports. In addition, the flow path branch section is formed in each of the distribution sections, so that the flow paths increase from the input port to the plurality of output ports. Further, the control unit controls the switching unit provided for each distribution unit, whereby the flow direction of the air in the branching unit is switched in units of the distribution unit and connected to the input port from among the plurality of output ports. The output port to be in the state is selected. Therefore, the air flowing from the input port to the output port can be supplied to the air actuator connected to the output port. In this way, the number of output ports that can discharge air can be increased, and many air actuators can be connected.
In addition, the air distribution unit can connect many air actuators, but the switching unit may be provided for each of the plurality of distribution units, and the switching unit provided for each of the distribution units. However, the direction in which the air flows in the branching section is switched collectively for each distribution section. For this reason, it is not necessary to provide a switching part for every branch part, the number of switching parts is small, and the structure of an air distribution unit can be simplified.

In addition, in order to adopt a configuration in which a switching unit is provided for each distribution unit, the switching unit includes a valve body whose position changes in order to switch the direction in which air flows in the branching unit, and the valve body collectively for each distribution unit. It is preferable to have a switching actuator that changes the position of the actuator.
With this configuration, the switching actuator can collectively change the position of the valve body in units of distribution units, and the direction in which air flows can be switched in units of distribution units.
Moreover, it is preferable that the switching actuator is of an air type that operates by air supplied from the pump.
In this case, the air source of the air actuator and the air source of the switching actuator for switching the flow path of the air distribution unit can be the same pump.

The unit main body includes a plurality of case main bodies in which a single branch portion is formed, and the switching portion is a valve that changes its position in order to switch the direction in which air flows in the branch portion. Body and a valve shaft to which the valve body is attached and whose position changes together with the valve body, and the case main body includes the valve shaft so that the position of the valve body and the valve shaft can be changed in a linear direction. It is preferable that the bearing hole part of one case body part and the bearing hole part of the other case body part are individually machined.
In this case, since the hole processing in one case main body and the hole processing in another case main body are separately performed, the processing is facilitated, and the dimensional accuracy is easily ensured.

And, as described above, the structure of the unit main body obtained by individually drilling the bearing hole of one case main body and the bearing hole of the other case main body is the one case. There is a configuration in which the plurality of case main body portions are provided so that the hole direction of the bearing hole portion of the main body portion is parallel to the hole direction of the bearing hole portion of the other case main body portion.
In this case, the valve body and the valve shaft at the branch part of one case body part and the valve body and the valve shaft at the branch part of another case body part are arranged in parallel.

In addition, the case body has a divided structure having a plurality of case divisions so that the valve body is accommodated in the branch portion, and the case divisions are separated by an interference fit. It is preferably assembled as impossible.
In this case, for example, welding, screw processing for screw fastening, or the like is not necessary for assembling the case divided bodies, and the case body can be easily manufactured.

In addition, it is preferable that at least two of the plurality of distribution units arranged in a direction from the input port toward the plurality of output ports are arranged in one direction.
In this case, the air distribution unit can be configured to be long in one direction.

In addition, the massage machine is configured such that the output port other than the output port connected to the input port by the control unit controlling the switching unit is blocked in which the passage of air is restricted. It is preferable to be in a state.
According to this configuration, the output port other than the output port that is connected to the input port (that is, other than the output port that allows air to flow between the input port and the output port) Between the other output port) and the air actuator connected thereto, air cannot flow. Therefore, when air is supplied to a certain air actuator and the output port connected to the air actuator is controlled to be in the closed state, the air actuator is held in an operated state.

In addition, the control unit is connected to the input port by switching a switching signal given to the switching unit to control the operation of the switching unit and a direction in which the switching unit flows air according to the switching signal. It is preferable to have a storage unit that stores relationship information having a relationship with the port.
According to this configuration, when an output port to be connected to the input port is determined, the control unit can obtain a switching signal based on the relationship information, and provides the switching signal to the switching unit. The switching unit can be controlled to select the output port.

Further, in the massage machine, between the one output port of the plurality of output ports and the air actuator connected to at least two other output ports, the one output port to the air actuator. The control unit is configured to connect the switching unit so that an output port through which air flows between the control port and the input port is the one output port. It can be set as the structure controlled.
According to this configuration, the control unit controls the switching unit to select the output port through which air flows between the input port as the one output port, so that the air is reversed from the one output port. It can supply to the air actuator connected with the said at least 2 other output port via a stop valve, respectively. That is, it is possible to supply air to the at least two air actuators simultaneously.

Further, the massage machine is switched from an air supply state in which the pump supplies air to the input port to an exhaust state in which air flowing from the output port to the input port can be exhausted to the outside. It is preferable to further include an exhaust switching valve.
According to this massage machine, when an air supply state is set by the supply / discharge switching valve and the pump supplies air to the input port, the air is discharged from the input port through the predetermined output port and connected to the output port. Air can be supplied to the actuator. Further, when the exhaust state is set by the supply / discharge switching valve, the air in the air actuator connected to the output port through which air can flow between the input port and the input port flows from the output port to the input port. It can be exhausted to the outside.

Further, in this massage machine, between the one output port of the plurality of output ports and the air actuator connected to at least two other output ports, the air actuator is connected to the one output port. The control unit controls the supply / exhaust switching valve so as to be in an exhaust state, and the air flows between the input port and the input port. The switching unit may be controlled so that the port becomes the one output port.
According to this configuration, the air is connected to the at least two other output ports by setting the exhaust state by the supply / discharge switching valve and the control unit controlling the switching unit to select the one output port. Air in the actuator can flow to the one output port via the check valve. Then, the air can flow from the one output port to the input port and be exhausted to the outside. That is, the at least two air actuators can be exhausted simultaneously.

It is a perspective view which shows the massage machine of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the principal part of the massage machine of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the outline of an air distribution unit. It is a figure which shows the 3rd distribution block. It is a figure which shows the 3rd distribution block. It is explanatory drawing explaining the function of a control apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows a part of other embodiment of a massage machine. It is explanatory drawing explaining the function of a control apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows a part of other embodiment of a massage machine. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell by the massage machine of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows a part of other embodiment of a massage machine. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell by the massage machine of FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the armrest part on the left side. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell group for left arms. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell group for left arms. It is explanatory drawing of the armrest part of the left side at the time of applying another air distribution unit. It is a block diagram which shows a part of other embodiment of a massage machine. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell group for left arms. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell group for left arms. It is a block diagram which shows a part of other embodiment of a massage machine. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell group for left arms. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of the air cell group for left arms. It is sectional drawing which shows the other form of an air distribution unit. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other form of the air distribution unit. (A) is an arrow A view of FIG. 24, (b) is an arrow B view of FIG. It is sectional drawing of a valve unit. It is explanatory drawing which shows the other form of the air distribution unit. It is A arrow line view of FIG. It is a B arrow view of FIG. It is sectional drawing of a valve unit. It is sectional drawing of a 3rd distribution block. It is explanatory drawing of a leak valve and a quick exhaust valve. The modification of a valve unit is shown, (a) is a top view, (b) is sectional drawing.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a massage machine of the present invention. This massage machine includes a seat 1 on which a user sits, a backrest 2 that supports the user's upper body, a footrest 3 on which the user's legs are placed, and left and right armrests on which the user's left and right arms are placed. 4 and 4 are provided. The backrest 2 is provided with a massage unit (not shown) that can be raised and lowered. The massage unit includes a treatment element 42 and a drive unit (not shown) that operates the treatment element 42. The massager 42 can be massaged and massaged by operating the treatment element 42.
The backrest 2 can be reclined. The footrest 3 is rotatable about the front portion of the seat portion 1 and is in a protruding state protruding forward from the downward state in FIG. The reclining of the backrest 2 and the rotation of the footrest 3 are performed by a driving device (not shown).

This massage machine includes a pump 6 that discharges air and a plurality of air cells (air actuators) that expand and contract for massage by supplying and discharging air. Each air cell is operated by the air supplied from the pump 6.
As the air cell, the seat portion 1 includes air cells 41a and 41b that are arranged in front and rear and expand upward, and an air cell 41c that presses the user's buttocks or thighs from the left and right. The footrest 3 has an air cell 43a that presses the calves of the left and right legs from the left and right, an air cell 43b that presses the toe portion from the left and right, and an air cell 43c that presses the sole. Each of the left and right armrests 4 and 4 is, in order from the upper side of the arm, an air cell 44a that presses the shoulder, an air cell 44b that presses (pinches) the upper arm, an air cell 44c that presses (pinches) the forearm, and a hand. It has an air cell 44d that is sandwiched between the upper and lower sides. Each air cell has a bag shape and is appropriately formed in a predetermined shape and size.

The massage machine is further provided with an air distribution unit 7 capable of supplying air from the pump 6 and sending the supplied air to the air cell. The air distribution unit 7 has an input port to which air is supplied from the pump 6 and a plurality of output ports respectively connected to a plurality of air cells. A branching flow path is formed inside the air distribution unit 7. In addition, between the pump 6 and the air distribution unit 7, and between the air distribution unit 7 and each air cell are each connected by air piping (not shown). A specific configuration of the air distribution unit 7 will be described later. Further, a plurality of air distribution units 7 may be provided, for example, for the air cell of the armrest portion 4 and the air cell of the seat portion 1.

[First embodiment]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an essential part of the air control circuit and air piping of the massage machine. This massage machine includes a control device (control unit) 10, a main electromagnetic valve (supply / discharge switching valve) 8, and a pressure accumulating device 9 in addition to the air distribution unit 7, the electric pump 6, and the plurality of air cells A to H. . In FIG. 2, the plurality of air cells are A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H, the input port of the air distribution unit 7 is P1, and the output ports are D1, D2, D3, and D4. , D5, D6, D7, and D8.

The control device 10 is composed of a programmable microcomputer having a CPU and a memory, and a program for executing predetermined functions is stored in the memory. By executing this program, operations of the pump 6, the air distribution unit 7, the main electromagnetic valve 8, and the like are controlled. The control device 10 receives a signal from the operation device 45 (see FIG. 1) operated by the user and performs control to execute various operations.

The main solenoid valve 8 is interposed between the pump 6 and the air distribution unit 7. The main electromagnetic valve 8 is switched between an excited state and a demagnetized state based on a control signal from the control device 10, and can switch between an air supply state and an exhaust state for the air cells A to H. The supply state is a state in which the pump 6 supplies air to the input port P1, and the exhaust state is a state in which the air flowing from the output ports D1 to D8 to the input port P1 can be discharged to the outside. .

The air discharged from the pump 6 is supplied to the input port P1 through the main electromagnetic valve 8, but the pressure accumulator 9 and control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, S2 (described later) on the downstream side thereof via the branch portion 9c. Also supplied to S3. The pressure accumulator 9 has an accumulator 9a and a check valve 9b. When a large amount of air from the pump 6 is supplied to the air cells A to H, the air pressure to be supplied to the control solenoid valves S1, S2, S3 decreases, and the operation by the control solenoid valves S1, S2, S3 ( The operation of the switching actuator (to be described later) may become unstable. However, according to this pressure accumulator 9, the necessary air pressure can be ensured.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of the air distribution unit 7. The air distribution unit 7 has a unit main body 14 interposed between the input port P1 and the output ports D1 to D8. The unit body 14 includes first, second and third distribution blocks (distribution units) 11, 12, which are arranged in three stages (multiple stages) in a direction from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8. 13. These distribution blocks 11, 12 and 13 constitute a unit main body 14. In this embodiment, the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 are formed of the same member and constitute one unit main body portion 14. However, the divided structure in which the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 are divided, respectively. It may be.

The first distribution block 11 includes a first main flow path 11a connected to the input port P1, and first branch flow paths 11b and 11c branched from the first main flow path 11a via a branching portion 11d. Yes. A first valve element 21 is provided at the branching part 11d so as to be movable.
The second distribution block 12 includes a second main channel 12a connected to one of the first branch channels 11b, and a second branch channel 12c branched from the second main channel 12a via a branch part 12g. 12d is formed. In addition, a second main channel 12b connected to the other first branch channel 11c and second branch channels 12e and 12f branched from the second main channel 12b via a branch part 12h are formed. Yes. 2nd valve bodies 22a and 22b are provided in the said branch parts 12g and 12h so that a movement is possible.

4 and 5 are views showing the third distribution block 13 in the unit main body 14. The third distribution block 13 includes a third main channel 13a connected to one second branch channel 12c, and third branch channels 13e branched from the third main channel 13a via a branch part 13m. 13f, and the third main flow paths 13b, 13c, 13d, branching so as to correspond to the other second branch flow paths 12d, 12e, 12f formed in the second distribution block 12. Portions 13n, 13o, 13p and third branch channels 13g, 13h, 13i, 13j, 13k, 13l are formed. As a result, a total of eight third branch flow paths 13e to 13l are formed in the third distribution block 13 at the most downstream stage. The branch parts 13m to 13p are provided with movable third valve bodies 23a to 23d, respectively.

Each of the third branch flow paths 13e to 13l formed in the third distribution block 13 is connected to the output ports D1 to D8. These output ports D1 to D8 are connected to the plurality of air cells A to H, respectively.
As described above, the first, second, and third distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 in which the branch portions of the flow paths are formed allow the unit body 14 to flow from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8. The path is configured to increase for each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13.

The air distribution unit 7 includes first, second, and third switching devices (switching units) 31, 32, and 33 provided in the first, second, and third distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, respectively. is doing. Each of the switching devices 31, 32, and 33 is configured to be able to collectively switch the flow direction of air in the branch portion in units of distribution blocks (switch the flow path of air in units of distribution blocks). . That is, each of the switching devices 31, 32, and 33 has the valve body (the first valve body 21, the second valve body) that changes its position in order to switch the air flow direction in the branch portions (11d, 12g, 12h, 13m to 13p). The valve bodies 22a and 22b, the third valve bodies 23a to 23d), the switching actuators (31a, 32a, 33a) for changing the position of the valve bodies and switching the flow paths in units of distribution blocks, and the control solenoid valve ( S1, S2, S3).

The third distribution block 13 will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. The third switching device 33 includes third valve bodies 23a, 23b, 23c, and 23d provided at the branch portions 13m, 13n, 13o, and 13p, a third switching actuator 33a that collectively changes the position thereof, and the control. It has an electromagnetic valve S3 (see FIG. 2). The four third valve bodies 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d are mounted on the same shaft 33b, and the four third valve bodies 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d are movable as a unit. A compression spring 33d is provided on one end side (left side in FIG. 4) of the shaft 33b, and the shaft 33b is urged toward the other end side (right side in FIG. 4) by the compression spring 33d. The third switching actuator 33a is an air cell (third operation air cell 33a) that expands and contracts by supplying and discharging air, and the control solenoid valve S3 can supply air to the third operation air cell 33a. And a stop state (exhaust state) in which the air supply is stopped can be switched. The third operation air cell 33a and the control solenoid valve S3 are connected by an air pipe (not shown) via the third control port A3. The control solenoid valve S3 is supplied with air from the pump 6.

4 shows that the third operation air cell 33a is in a contracted state, and the four third valve bodies 23a, 23b, 23c, and 23d are attached to the other end side (the right side in FIG. 4) by the compression spring 33d. It is energized. In this state, each of the third main flow paths 13a to 13d can flow air between the third branch flow paths 13e, 13g, 13i, and 13k on one side (on the left side in FIG. 4).
The control solenoid valve S3 is operated by the control signal of the control device 10 to enter the supply state, and as shown in FIG. 5, the air is supplied through the third control port A3 to the third operation air cell 33a. And inflate. The expanding third air cell 33a pushes the shaft 33b against the compression spring 33d and moves the third valve bodies 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d together at one end (to the left). In this state, air can flow between each of the third main flow paths 13a to 13d and the other third branch flow paths 13f, 13h, 13j, and 13l (on the right side). Thus, the third switching actuator (third operation air cell 33a) collectively changes the position of the third valve bodies 23a, 23b, 23c, and 23d, and switches the flow paths in units of the third distribution block 13. be able to. The third switching actuator (third operation air cell 33 a) is an air type that is operated by the air supplied from the pump 6.

The first distribution block 11 and the second distribution block 12 are configured in the same manner as the third distribution block 13. In the second distribution block 12, the second switching actuator 32a collectively changes the position of the second valve bodies 22a and 22b in units of the second distribution block 12 and switches the flow paths in units of the second distribution block 12. Can do. Furthermore, in the 1st distribution block 11, the 1st switching actuator 31a can change the position of the 1st valve body 21, and can switch a flow path. And such switching of a flow path is performed when the control apparatus 10 controls control solenoid valve S1, S2, S3, respectively.

The control device 10 includes a switching signal to be given to the switching devices 31, 32, 33 to control the operation of the switching devices 31, 32, 33, and the switching devices 31, 32, 33 emit air according to the switching signals. It has the memory | storage part 10a which has memorize | stored the relationship information which has a relationship with the output port connected with the input port P1 by switching the flow direction. When the output port to be connected to the input port P1 is determined, the control device 10 can obtain a switching signal based on the relation information, and provides this switching signal to the switching devices 31, 32, 33. These switching devices 31, 32, 33 are controlled so that the output port is selected.

The unit main body 14 of the air distribution unit 7 configured as described above has three stages of distribution blocks 11, 12, 13 in the direction from the input port P1 to the eight output ports D1 to D8. Are arranged, and branch portions of the flow paths are formed in each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13. For this reason, the flow paths are configured to increase from the input port P1 to the eight flow paths 13e to 13l at each stage. The output ports D1 to D8 are connected to the flow paths 13e to 13l, respectively.
Further, the control device 10 controls the switching devices 31, 32, and 33 provided in the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, so that the air at the branching portion flows at each stage of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13. The directions (flow paths) are switched together, and air can flow between the input port P1 and the eight output ports D1 to D8. Then, the air flowing from the input port P1 to the output port can be supplied to the air cell connected to the output port. And according to this structure, the output port which can flow air between the input ports P1 is selected alternatively.

FIG. 3 shows that the control device 10 controls the first, second, and third switching devices 31, 32, and 33, that is, the control solenoid valves S1, S2, and S3. The air supply to all the third operation air cells 31a, 32a, 33a is stopped. In this state, air can flow only between the input port P1 and the output port D1. When air is supplied from the pump 6 to the input port P1, the air cell A connected to the output port D1 expands.

In addition, the output ports D2 to D8 other than the output port D1 through which the control device 10 controls the control solenoid valves S1, S2, S3 to allow air to flow to and from the input port P1, It becomes the obstruction | occlusion state in which passage of air was controlled. In this state, air does not flow in the other output ports D2 to D8, and the supply and discharge of air to the air cells B to H connected to the other output ports D2 to D8 are stopped. Therefore, for example, when the output port D1 is selected and air is supplied to the air cell A and the expansion operation is performed, when the output port is selected other than D1 (for example, D2) and the flow path is switched, the output connected to the air cell A is output. The port P1 is closed, and the air cell A is held in an expanded state. That is, according to this air distribution unit 7, the air cell can be held in an expanded state in addition to the expansion and contraction.

According to the above configuration, the air distribution unit 7 includes one input port P1, three control ports A1, A2, and A3, and eight output ports D1 to D8. Selection of which output port the input port P1 is connected to is made by a combination of air supply (high air pressure) or stop (low air pressure) of the three control ports A1, A2 and A3. The first control port A1 is a port for connecting the first operation air cell 31a and the first control electromagnetic valve S1, and the second control port A2 is the second operation air cell 32a and the second control electromagnetic valve. The third control port A3 is a port for connecting the third operation air cell 33a and the third control electromagnetic valve S3.

Each of these first, second, and third control solenoid valves S1, S2, and S3 can be in two states of air supply or stop, whereby each of the control ports A1, A2, and A3 is supplied with air. Or it can be in two states of stop (exhaust). A description will be given in which the switching signal for setting the air supply state is “1” and the switching signal for the stop state is corresponding to “0”. For example, when these control solenoid valves [S1, S2, S3] (control ports [A1, A2, A3]) are [000], the input port P1 is connected to the output port D1 (state shown in FIG. 3). When the control solenoid valve [S1, S2, S3] (control port [A1, A2, A3]) is [001], the input port P1 is connected to the output port D2. As described above, the control device 10 applies the switching signal to the control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, S3 based on the relation information stored in the storage unit 10a, and causes the control electromagnetic valves to be excited (to be in the supply state). Controls the combination of valves S1, S2, S3. By this control, the combination of the states of the three control ports [A1, A2, A3] can be changed. Then, an air cell to be supplied or exhausted is selected. That is, depending on the combination of the states of the three control solenoid valves [S1, S2, S3] (control ports [A1, A2, A3]), 8 (= 2 to the 3rd power) output ports D1 to D8 (plural). One of the air cells A to H) is selected, and one of them is subject to supply or exhaust. Then, the output ports (air cells) other than the selected one are excluded from supply and exhaust and are held. As described above, the air distribution unit 7 functions as a 3-bit control valve that controls the operation of the eight air cells A to G.

The function of the control device 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. As the control device 10 controls the main electromagnetic valve 8 (FIG. 2), supply or exhaust to the input port P1 is selected as shown in FIG. 6B. At time t1 in FIG. 6, since the input port P1 is in the supply state and the output port D1 is selected (D1 in FIG. 6A is ON), the air cell A corresponding to this output port D1 The air is supplied and the expansion operation is performed. At this time, the other air cells B and C to H are in the holding state.
At a later time t2, the input port P1 remains in the air supply state, the output port D2 is selected (D2 in FIG. 6A is ON), and the air cell B corresponding to the output port D2 is supplied. The air is inflated. At this time, the air cell A is held in an expanded state, and the other C to H are also held.

At time t3, the output port D2 remains selected and the input port P1 is in the exhaust state. As a result, the air cell B corresponding to the output port D2 is exhausted and contracted, but the air cell A is maintained in an expanded state.
At time t4, the output port D1 is selected, and the expanded air cell A can be contracted by the input port P1 being in the exhaust state.
Since the output ports D3 to D8 are selected in this way, the air cells C to H can be in an expanded state or a contracted state, and neither of the output ports D1 and D2 is selected (time t5). ) Both are closed, and the air cells A and B are in the holding state.

In this way, the control device 10 controls the main electromagnetic valve 8 to be in the supply state, and further, the first, second, and third switching devices 31, 32, and 33 (control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, and S3). And the output ports through which air can flow between the input ports P1 can be changed one by one. Thereby, the operating air cell can be changed one by one by switching the output port through which air flows between the input port P1.
Further, the main electromagnetic valve 8 is set in an exhaust state, and the control device unit 10 controls the first, second, and third switching devices 31, 32, and 33 (control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, and S3) to set the output port. By changing one by one, the output port through which air flows is switched between the input port P1 and the air can be exhausted and contracted from the air cell connected to the switched output port. Thus, one output port is selected by the combination of the control solenoid valves S1, S2, and S3 to be excited, and air supply or exhaust is enabled, and the other output ports that are not selected are held.

[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a part of another embodiment of the massage machine. This embodiment is different from the embodiment of FIG. 2 in that one of the eight output ports D1 to D8 is closed (sealed). Specifically, a plug member is attached to the output port D8 and closed. Others are the same as in FIG. In other words, the output port D8 is described as the closed port D8. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, as shown in FIG. 8, in the time zone in which the closed port D8 is selected by the control of the control device 10, All the air cells A to G connected to the output ports D1 to D7 can be simultaneously held.

[Third embodiment]
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a part of another embodiment of the massage machine. This embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 2 in the following points. In the embodiment of FIG. 9, an air cell E connected to one output port D8 out of eight output ports D1 to D8 and at least two other output ports (three output ports D5, D6, D7), respectively. , F, and G are connected via check valves 15a, 15b, and 15c that allow air flow from the air cells E, F, and G to the one output port D8. Others are the same as in FIG.

More specifically, a flow path 15d is provided from the output port D8, and branch flow paths 15e, 15f, and 15g are provided by branching from the flow path 15d. The branch channel 15e and the air cell E are connected, the branch channel 15f and the air cell F are connected, and the branch channel 15g and the air cell G are connected. The check valve 15a is provided in the branch flow path 15e, the check valve 15b is provided in the branch flow path 15f, and the check valve 15c is provided in the branch flow path 15g.

The control device 10 controls the main electromagnetic valve 8 (see FIG. 2) so as to be in the exhaust state, and the first, second, and third switching devices 31, 32, and 33 (control electromagnetic valves S1, S2). , S3), and an output port through which air flows to and from the input port P1 is defined as the one output port D8. As a result, the air in the air cells E, F, and G, which are in an expanded state connected to the three output ports D5, D6, and D7, is transferred to the one output port D8 via the check valves 15a, 15b, and 15c. Can be flowed to. Then, this air can flow from the output port D8 to the input port P1, and can be exhausted to the outside by the main electromagnetic valve 8.

A specific example will be described. In the timing chart of FIG. 10, the control device 10 causes the main electromagnetic valve 8 to supply the input port P1 and the output port D5 is selected (time t1). Inflate. Since the output port D8 is not selected, the output port D8 is in a closed state, and the air in the air cell E cannot flow through the output port D8 via the check valve 15a. Next, when the output port is switched to D6 while the input port P1 is in the supply state (time t2), the air cell F expands and the expanded air cell E is held in the expanded state. When the output port is switched to D7 while the input port P1 is in the supply state (time t3), the air cell G is expanded next, and the air cells E and F of the output ports D5 and D6 are held in the expanded state.

Then, when the output port is switched to D8 while the input port P1 is in the air supply state (time t4), the air cells E, F, and G held in the expanded state are held. When the input port P1 is in the exhaust state (time t5), the air in the air cells E, F, and G held in the expanded state can flow to the output port D8 via the check valves 15a, 15b, and 15c, respectively. . Further, these air are exhausted from the main solenoid valve 8 to the outside through the output port P1. Thereby, the air cells E, F, and G contract simultaneously. In other words, in this embodiment, a plurality of air cells can be individually supplied (with a time difference) and exhausted simultaneously.

[Fourth embodiment]
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a part of another embodiment of the massage machine. This embodiment differs from the embodiment of FIG. 2 in the following points. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, an air cell D connected to one output port (D8) of the eight output ports D1 to D8 and at least two other output ports (D4, D5, D6, D7), respectively. , E, F, and G are connected via check valves 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d that allow air flow from one output port D8 to the air cells D, E, F, and G, respectively. Yes. Others are the same.

More specifically, a channel 16e is provided from the output port D8, and branch channels 16f, 16g, 16h, and 16i are provided by branching from the channel 16e. The branch channel 16f and the air cell D are connected. The branch channel 16g and the air cell E are connected. The branch channel 16h and the air cell F are connected. And the branch flow path 16i and the air cell G are connected. The check valve 16a is provided in the branch channel 16f. The check valve 16b is provided in the branch channel 16g. The check valve 16c is provided in the branch channel 16h. The check valve 16d is provided in the branch channel 16i.

And the control part 10 controls the main solenoid valve 8 (refer FIG. 2) so that it may be in an air supply state, and the output port into which air flows between input ports P1 becomes said one output port D8. Thus, the first, second, and third switching devices 31, 32, and 33 (control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, and S3) are controlled. According to this, air cells D, E, which are connected to the output ports D4, D5, D6, D7 from the one output port D8 via the check valves 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, respectively. F and G can be supplied.

Describing a specific example, in the timing chart of FIG. Further, since the output port D8 is selected, air is simultaneously supplied from the output port D8 to the air cells D, E, F, and G via the check valves 16a, 16b, 16c, and 16d ( Time t1). When the input port P1 is in the exhausted state (time t2) and the output port D4 is selected (time t3), the air in the air cell D connected to the output port D4 passes through the output port D4, and the main electromagnetic The air is exhausted from the valve 8 to the outside. Thereby, the air cell D contracts. During this time, the other expanded air cells E, F, and G are in a holding state.

Next, when the output port D5 is selected (time t4), the air in the air cell E connected to the output port D5 is exhausted from the main solenoid valve 8 to the outside through the output port D5. Thereby, the air cell E contracts. Similarly, when the output port D6 is selected (time t5) and then the output port D7 is selected (time t6), the air cell F and the air cell G contract in order. That is, in this embodiment, it is possible to supply air to a plurality of air cells at the same time, and to exhaust individually (with a time difference).

According to the massage machine of each above embodiment, the number of the output ports which can discharge air in the air distribution unit 7 can be increased, and many air cells can be connected. In addition, the illustrated air distribution unit 7 (for example, FIG. 2) is configured to connect many air cells, but the switching device (31, 32, 33) is divided into three stages of distribution blocks 11, 12, 13. And the switching device provided for each distribution block collectively switches the flow direction of the air in the branching unit in units of the distribution block. Therefore, it is necessary to provide the switching device for each branching unit. Therefore, the number of switching devices is small, and the configuration of the air distribution unit 7 can be simplified.
Specifically, the illustrated air distribution unit 7 (for example, FIG. 2) only needs to have one main electromagnetic valve 8 and three control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, and S3. The number of solenoid valves is less than the number of air cells A to H, and the number of solenoid valves is half, and the configuration of the air distribution unit 7 can be simplified.

Although not shown, in the massage machine of the present invention, the number of distribution blocks has been described as three (three stages) in the above embodiment, but may be four (four stages) or more. That is, a fourth distribution block may be further added to the unit main body 14 of FIG. In this case, the number of output ports can be 16. Even in this case, it is only necessary to add one control solenoid valve to the fourth distribution block. As a result, a total of five units including one main solenoid valve 8 and four control solenoid valves may be sufficient. Less than half the number of air cells (16). As described above, according to the present invention, the number of electromagnetic valves may be small, while the configuration can connect many air cells, and the configuration of the air distribution unit 7 and the entire massage machine can be simplified.

Further, in order to move the valve bodies 21, 22a, 22b, 23a to 23d and switch the flow paths in the distribution blocks 11, 12, 13 respectively, the switching devices 31, 32, 33 use air cells as switching actuators. The air cell is inflated by switching the air supply / discharge of the control solenoid valves S1, S2, S3. For this reason, the motive power for switching a flow path is obtained by the pressurized air, and the motive power becomes large. The control electromagnetic valves S1, S2 and S3 need only be given small electric power, and energy efficiency is good.

[Specific examples of application (part 1)]
An example in which each of the air distribution units 7 is applied to the chair type massage machine of FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of the left armrest 4. In order from the upper side of the arm, the air cell 44a that presses the shoulder, the air cell 44b that presses (pinches) the upper arm, the air cell 44c1 that presses (pinches) the shoulder side of the forearm, and the hand side of the forearm An air cell 44c2 that performs (pinches) and an air cell 44d that presses the hand (pins up and down) is provided.

The air cell 44a and the air cell 44b are the air cell group A, the air cell 44c1 is the air cell group B, the air cell 44c2 is the air cell group C, and the air cell 44d is the air cell group D. These air cell groups A to D correspond to the air cells A to D in FIG. Although not shown, the same applies to the right armrest portion 4, and air cell groups E to H are provided, which correspond to the air cells E to H in FIG. Therefore, in this embodiment, one air distribution unit 7 is provided for the air cells of the left and right armrest portions 4 and 4.

FIG. 14 is a time chart for the operation of the air cell groups A, B, C, and D for the left arm. Note that the right arm also operates in the same manner as left-right symmetry. This time chart shows a case where air cells A, B, C, and D are individually supplied and individually exhausted.
2, 13, and 14, the main electromagnetic valve 8 is in an air supply state, and the output ports to be aired from the input port P <b> 1 are sequentially selected as D <b> 1, D <b> 2, D <b> 3, D <b> 4, thereby Air is supplied in the order of A, B, C, and D and individually expanded. Then, after expanding the air cell group D, the main electromagnetic valve 8 is switched to the exhaust state, and the output ports are again selected as D1, D2, D3, and D4 in the same order. Thereby, about an air cell group, exhaust_gas | exhaustion is separately performed in order of A, B, C, D, and it can be made to shrink | contract in order. Control by the control device 10 in this way enables massage (centrifugation) in which the air cell group is sequentially expanded and contracted in the direction away from the user's heart (center of the body).

On the other hand, by setting the main electromagnetic valve 8 to the air supply state and selecting the output ports as D4, D3, D2, and D1 in order as shown in FIG. 15, the air cell group is set to D, C, B, Air is supplied in the order of A and inflated individually. Then, after expanding the air cell group A, the main electromagnetic valve 8 is switched to the exhaust state, and the output ports are again selected as D4, D3, D2, and D1 in the same order. Thereby, an air cell group can be shrunk separately in order of D, C, B, and A. By controlling the control device 10 in this way, it is possible to perform a massage (centripetal method) in which the air cell group is sequentially expanded and contracted in the direction closer to the heart (the center of the body) from the end of the user's body. Become.

[Specific examples of application (part 2)]
The case where the air distribution unit 7 of another form is applied to the chair type massage machine of FIG. 1 is demonstrated. As shown in FIG. 16, the air cell 44a and the air cell 44b are an air cell group A, the air cell 44c1 is an air cell group B, and the air cell 44c2 and the air cell 44d are an air cell group C. And in the specific example (the 2) of this application, as shown in FIG. 17 (similar to the form of FIG. 11), the check valve 16b is provided between the output port D4 and each of the air cells A, B, and C. , 16c, 16d are provided.

The air cell groups A to C in FIG. 16 correspond to A to C in FIG. Although not shown, the same applies to the right armrest portion 4, and air cell groups E to G are provided, corresponding to the air cells E to G in FIG. Therefore, in this embodiment, one air distribution unit 7 is provided for the left and right armrest portions 4, 4.

FIG. 18 is a time chart for the operation of the air cell groups A, B, and C for the left arm. Note that the right arm also operates in the same manner as left-right symmetry. This time chart shows a case where air is supplied to the air cell groups A, B, and C at the same time and exhausted individually (with a time difference).
In FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, the main solenoid valve (see FIG. 2) is in an air supply state and the output port D4 is selected, so that air is supplied to the air cell group A via the check valves 16b, 16c and 16d. , B and C are simultaneously supplied to inflate them. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the main electromagnetic valve 8 is switched to the exhaust state, and the output ports are selected in the order of D3, D2, and D1. Thereby, an air cell group can be shrunk separately in order of C, B, and A. Control by the control device 10 in this way enables massage (centrifugation) that sequentially contracts the air cell group from a position far from the user's heart (the center of the body).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, the main solenoid valve (see FIG. 2) is brought into the air supply state, and the output port D4 is selected, so that the air is passed through the check valves 16b, 16c and 16d. Then, air is supplied to the air cell groups A, B, and C at the same time to expand them. Then, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the main electromagnetic valve 8 is switched to the exhaust state, and the output ports are selected in the order of D1, D2, and D3. Thereby, the air cell group can be individually contracted in the order of A, B, and C. Control by the control device 10 in this way enables massage (centripetal method) in which the air cell group is contracted sequentially from a position close to the user's heart (the center of the body).

[Specific examples of application (part 3)]
The case where the air distribution unit 7 of another form is applied to the chair type massage machine of FIG.1 and FIG.16 is demonstrated. In a specific example (No. 3) of this application, as shown in FIG. 20, check valves 15a and 15b are provided between the output port D4 and the air cells A, B, and C (as in the embodiment of FIG. 9). , 15c are provided.

The air cell groups A to C in FIG. 16 correspond to A to C in FIG. The same applies to the armrest portion 4 on the right side, and air cell groups E to G are provided and correspond to the air cells E to G in FIG. Therefore, in this embodiment, one air distribution unit 7 is provided for the left and right armrest portions 4, 4.

FIG. 21 is a time chart regarding the operation of the air cell groups A, B, and C for the left arm. Note that the right arm also operates in the same manner as left-right symmetry. This time chart shows a case where air cells A, B, and C are individually supplied (with a time difference) and exhausted simultaneously.
16, 20, and 21, the main solenoid valve 8 (see FIG. 2) is in an air supply state, and the output ports are selected in order of D1, D2, and D3, so that the air cell groups are in the order of A, B, and C. Inflate and individually inflate. When the output port D4 is selected after the air cell group C is expanded, the air cell groups A, B, and C are held in an expanded state.
When the main solenoid valve 8 is switched to the exhaust state, the air in the air cell groups A, B, and C that are in the expanded state can flow to the output port D4 via the check valves 15a, 15b, and 15c. The air cell groups A, B, and C can be contracted simultaneously. Control by the control device 10 in this way enables massage by a centrifugal method in which the air cell group is sequentially expanded in a direction farther from the user's heart (the center of the body).

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 22, the main solenoid valve 8 is in the supply state, and the output ports are selected as D3, D2, and D1 in this order, so that the air cell group is in the order of C, B, and A. Supply air and inflate individually. Then, after the air cell group A is expanded, when the output port D4 is selected and the main electromagnetic valve 8 is switched to the exhaust state, the air in the air cell groups A, B, and C in the expanded state becomes the check valve 15a. , 15b, 15c to the output port D4, and the air cell groups A, B, C can be contracted simultaneously. Control by the control device 10 in this way enables massage by a centripetal method in which the air cell groups are sequentially expanded from the end of the user's body toward the heart (the center of the body).

[Other forms of air distribution unit 7 (second form)]
FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing another form of the air distribution unit 7. The air distribution unit 7 of FIG. 23 has the same function as the air distribution unit 7 of FIG.
The air distribution unit 7 in FIG. 23 includes first, second, and third distribution blocks (distribution units) 11, 12, arranged in three stages in a direction from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8. 13 and first and second connecting blocks 17 and 18 connecting them. The first connection block 17 connects the first distribution block 11 and the second distribution block 12, and the first branch flow paths 11 b and 11 c of the first distribution block 11 and the second main flow path of the second distribution block 12. It has a flow path connecting 12a and 12b. The second connection block 18 connects the second distribution block 12 and the third distribution block 13, and the second branch flow paths 12 c to 12 f of the second distribution block 12 and the third main flow path of the third distribution block 13. It has a flow path connecting 13a to 13d. These distribution blocks 11, 12, 13 and connection blocks 17, 18 constitute a unit main body 14.

In the first distribution block 11, a branch portion is formed between the first main flow path 11 a and the first branch flow paths 11 b and 11 c, and a branch section is similarly formed in the second distribution block 12 and the third distribution block 13. ing.
As a result, similarly to the case of FIG. 3, the unit main body portion 14 of FIG. 23 has a configuration in which a branch portion is formed in each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, and the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8. The flow path is configured to increase.
Also, the difference from FIG. 3 is that in FIG. 3 (FIG. 4), for example, in the third distribution block 13, four valve bodies 23a to 23d are mounted on the shaft 33b, whereas in FIG. The spool 26 is used.

In addition, as in the case of FIG. 3, the air distribution unit 7 includes first, second, and third switching devices (switching units) provided in the first, second, and third distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, respectively. Part) 31, 32, 33. The switching devices 31, 32, and 33 can collectively switch the direction in which the air flows in the branching portions (flow paths through which the air flows) in each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13. Each of the switching devices 31, 32, and 33 changes the position of the spools 24, 25, and 26 that change their positions in order to switch the flow paths, and changes the positions of the spools 24, 25, and 26. There are switching actuators (operating air cells 31a, 32a, 33a) and control solenoid valves S1, S2, S3. The configuration of the switching actuator ( operational air cells 31a, 32a, 33a) and the control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, S3 is the same as that shown in FIG. 3. For example, the control electromagnetic valve S3 is connected to the third operation air cell 33a. Thus, it is possible to switch between a state where air can be supplied and a stop state (exhaust state) where the air supply is stopped.

Then, the control device 10 controls the switching devices 31, 32 and 33 to switch the flow path, and allows air to flow between the input port P1 and the eight output ports D1 to D8. In addition, this air distribution unit 7 can also be applied as shown in FIGS.

In the case of the air distribution unit 7 of FIG. 23, each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 is formed with a straight hole, and the spools 24, 25, and 26 are provided in the holes so as to be movable. It has been. The spool 24 can be manufactured from a straight shaft, and the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 are provided with the straight hole, the hole that forms the main flow path, and the hole that forms the branch flow path. Manufactured easily compared to the embodiment of FIG.

[Still Another Mode of Air Distribution Unit 7 (Third Mode)]
FIG. 24 is an explanatory view showing still another form of the air distribution unit 7. FIG. 25A is a view as seen from an arrow A in FIG. 24, and FIG. 25B is a view as seen from an arrow B in FIG. 24 also has the same function as the air distribution unit 7 of FIG.
The air distribution unit 7 in FIG. 24 has first, second, and third distribution blocks (distribution units) 11, 12, and 13 that are arranged in three stages from the input port P1. The first distribution block 11 is composed of one valve unit b1, the second distribution block 12 is composed of two valve units b2 and b3, and the third distribution block 13 is composed of three units. It consists of valve units b4, b5, b6 and b7.

The air distribution unit 7 has first and second connecting blocks 17 and 18 (similar to FIG. 23). The first connection block 17 is interposed between the first distribution block 11 (valve unit b1) and the second distribution block 12 (valve units b2, b3), and the second connection block 18 is a second distribution block. 12 and the third distribution block 13 (valve units b4, b5, b6, b7).
Each of the valve units b1 to b7 has the same configuration, and FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view thereof (cross-section taken along arrow C in FIG. 24). In FIG. 26, the first valve unit b1 of the first distribution block 11 is shown as a representative.

The first valve unit b1 includes a first port 27a, a second port 27b, a third port 27c, a fourth port 27d, and a case main body 30. The case main body 30 is provided with a spring (elastic member) 28b, a valve body 29, and a moving body 28a. The moving body 28a has a shaft portion (valve shaft) 28a1 having a valve body 29 attached to one end thereof, and a membrane member 28a2 made of an elastic body attached to the other end of the shaft portion 28a1. When air is supplied to the space between the membrane member 28a2 and the upper wall portion 30a of the case main body 30, the membrane member 28a2 is elastically deformed, and the shaft portion 28a1 and the valve element 29 move downward in FIG. . That is, the valve body 29 moves in conjunction with the moving body 28a.
And in this valve unit b1, it branches from the 1st main flow path 11a connected with the 1st port 27a via the branch part 11d, and the 1st branch flow paths 11b and 11c are formed. The first branch channel 11b is connected to the second port 27b, and the first branch channel 11c is connected to the third port 27c. Thereby, the branch port 11d is formed between the first port 27a (first main channel 11a), the second port 27b (first branch channel 11b), and the third port 27c (first branch channel 11c). . A valve element 29 is provided at the branch portion 11d.
In FIG. 26, the first port 27a and the second port 27b are connected by the valve body 29, and air can flow between these ports. When the air discharged from the pump 6 (see FIG. 2) and passing through the control solenoid valve S1 is supplied to the fourth port 27d, the valve of the air against the spring 28b from the state of FIG. The body 29 moves. Thereby, it will be in the state where the 1st port 27a and the 3rd port 27c were connected, and air can flow between these ports.

The second port 27b of the first valve unit b1 includes a flow path 17a formed in the first connection block 17 and a second valve on one side of the second distribution block 12, as shown in FIG. It connects with the 2nd main channel 12a in the 2nd valve unit b2 via the 1st port 27a of unit b2 (refer to Drawing 24). The third port 27c of the first valve unit b1 is on the other side of the flow path 17b formed in the first connection block 17 and the second distribution block 12, as shown in FIG. It connects with the 2nd main flow path 12b in the said 3rd valve unit b3 via the 1st port 27a of the 3rd valve unit b3 (refer FIG. 24).

And the 2nd port 27b of the 2nd valve unit b2 is the 4th valve unit b4 of the flow path 18a formed in the 2nd connection block 18, and the 3rd distribution block 12, as shown in FIG.25 (b). The first main port 27a is connected to the third main channel 13a in the fourth valve unit b4 (see FIG. 24). In the fourth valve unit b4, a third branch channel 13e and a third branch channel 13f are formed by branching from the first port 27a and the third main channel 13a, and the third branch channel 13e and the third branch channel 13f are formed. The three branch flow paths 13f are connected to the second port 27b and the third port 27c, respectively. The second port 27b and the third port 27c are connected to the output port D1 and the output port D2, respectively (see FIG. 24). The second connection block 18 is further formed with flow paths 18b, 18c, 18d, and the third valve unit b3 of the second distribution block 12 is further provided with another valve of the third distribution block 13. The units b5 to b7 are configured similarly.

The unit body portion of the air distribution unit 7 constituted by the valve units b1 to b7 and the connecting blocks 17 and 18 is connected from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8, as in FIGS. It has distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 arranged in a plurality of stages in the direction toward it, and branch portions are formed in the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, respectively, and a plurality of output ports D1 to D8 from the input port P1. The flow path is configured to increase.
Similarly to FIGS. 3 and 23, the air distribution unit 7 of FIG. 24 has first, second, and third switching units provided in the first, second, and third distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, respectively. Devices (switching units) 31, 32, and 33 are included. The switching devices 31, 32, and 33 can collectively switch the direction in which the air flows in the branch portion (flow path for flowing air) for each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13.

The switching devices 31, 32, and 33 will be described as a representative of the switching device 33 of the third distribution block 13. The third distribution block 13 is composed of four valve units b4 to b7, and each of these fourth ports 27d is connected to an air flow path 34 indicated by a two-dot chain line. The air flow path 34 is connected to the pump 6 (see FIG. 2) via a control electromagnetic valve S3.
Therefore, when the air discharged from the pump 6 flows through the air flow path 34 via the control solenoid valve S3, the air is supplied to the fourth ports 27d of the valve units b4 to b7. As a result, the position of all the valve bodies 29 (see FIG. 26) of the valve units b4 to b7 collectively change, and the flow paths are switched collectively in the third distribution block 13.
That is, also in this embodiment, the third distribution block 13 includes four valve bodies 29 whose positions change in order to switch the flow paths, and a switching actuator that changes the positions of these valve bodies 29 collectively and switches the flow paths collectively. It becomes the composition which has. The switching actuator has the moving body 28a arranged in the valve units b4 to b7 connected to the air flow path 34, respectively.

Then, the control device 10 controls the switching devices 31, 32, 33 (that is, controls the control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, S3) to switch the flow path, and the input port P1 and the eight output ports D1. Air can flow between D8. In addition, this air distribution unit 7 is also applicable to the massage machine of FIG.7, FIG.9, FIG.11, FIG.17 and FIG.
According to this embodiment, the configuration of the air distribution unit 7 can be easily changed by further adding the valve unit of FIG. 26 and the connection block similar to that of FIG. That is, the number of output ports can be easily increased by adding a valve unit and a connection block.

[Still another form of air distribution unit 7 (fourth form)]
FIG. 27 is an explanatory view showing still another form of the air distribution unit 7. 28 is a view as seen from an arrow A in FIG. 27, and FIG. 29 is a view as seen from an arrow B in FIG. The air distribution unit 7 of FIG. 27 also has the same function as the air distribution unit of each of the above embodiments.
27 has first, second, and third distribution blocks (distribution units) 11, 12, and 13 that are arranged in three stages from the input port P1. The first distribution block 11 is composed of one valve unit b1, the second distribution block 12 is composed of two valve units b2 and b3, and the third distribution block 13 is composed of three units. It consists of valve units b4, b5, b6 and b7.

Further, the air distribution unit 7 has first and second connecting blocks 17 and 18. The first connection block 17 has a flow path for connecting the first distribution block 11 and the second distribution block 12, and the second connection block 18 includes the second distribution block 12 and the third distribution block 13. A flow path for connecting the two is formed.
Each of the valve units b1 to b7 has the same configuration, and a sectional view thereof is FIG. 30 (a sectional view taken along arrow C in FIG. 27).

The first valve unit b1 will be described as a representative. The first valve unit b1 includes a first port 27a, a second port 27b, a third port 27c, and a case main body 30. The case main body 30 is provided with a spring (elastic member) 28b, a valve body 29, and a shaft portion (valve shaft) 28a to which the valve body 29 is attached at one end. An operation air cell (switching actuator) 31a is provided on the other end side of the shaft portion 28a. The spring 28b biases the valve body 29 toward the operation air cell 31a. The operation air cell 31a expands when air is supplied, and the shaft portion 28a and the valve body 29 move against the spring 28b.

The case body 30 is branched from the first main flow channel 11a connected to the first port 27a via the branch portion 11d to form first branch flow channels 11b and 11c. The first branch channel 11b is connected to the second port 27b, and the first branch channel 11c is connected to the third port 27c. Thereby, the branch port 11d is formed between the first port 27a (first main channel 11a), the second port 27b (first branch channel 11b), and the third port 27c (first branch channel 11c). . A valve element 29 is provided at the branch portion 11d.
The state shown in FIG. 30 is a state in which the first port 27a and the third port 27c are connected by the valve body 29, and air can flow between these ports. When the air discharged from the pump 6 (see FIG. 2) and passing through the control electromagnetic valve S1 is supplied to the operation air cell 31a, the valve element 29 moves against the spring 28b by the pressure of the air. . Thereby, it will be in the state where the 1st port 27a and the 2nd port 27b are connected, and air can flow between these ports.

As shown in FIG. 29, the second port 27b of the first valve unit b1 includes a flow path 17a formed in the first connection block 17 and a second valve unit on one side of the second distribution block 12. It connects with the 2nd main flow path 12a in the said 2nd valve unit b2 via the 1st port 27a of b2 (refer FIG. 27). Further, as shown in FIG. 29, the third port 27c of the first valve unit b1 includes a flow path 17b formed in the first connection block 17 and a third valve unit on the other side of the second distribution block 12. It connects with the 2nd main flow path 12b in the said 3rd valve unit b3 via the 1st port 27a of b3 (refer FIG. 27).

As shown in FIG. 28, the second port 27b of the second valve unit b2 is connected to the flow path 18a formed in the second connection block 18 and the fourth valve unit b4 of the third distribution block 12. It connects with the 3rd main flow path 13a in the said 4th valve unit b4 via the 1st port 27a (refer FIG. 27). In the fourth valve unit b4, a third branch channel 13e and a third branch channel 13f are formed by branching from the first port 27a and the third main channel 13a. The third branch channel 13f is connected to the second port 27b and the third port 27c of the fourth valve unit b4, respectively. The second port 27b and the third port 27c are connected to the output port D1 and the output port D2, respectively (see FIGS. 27 and 29). The second connection block 18 is further formed with flow paths 18b, 18c, 18d, and the third valve unit b3 of the second distribution block 12 is further provided with another valve of the third distribution block 13. The units b5 to b7 are configured similarly.

The unit main body 14 of the air distribution unit 7 constituted by the valve units b1 to b7 and the connecting blocks 17 and 18 is directed from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8, as in the above embodiments. The distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 are arranged in a plurality of stages in the direction. A branch portion is formed in each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, and the input port P 1 is connected to the output ports D 1 to D 8. And the flow path is configured to increase.
As in the above embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the air distribution unit 7 is provided in each of the first, second, and third distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13, respectively. , Second and third switching devices (switching units) 31, 32, 33. The switching devices 31, 32, and 33 can collectively switch the direction in which the air flows in the branch portion (flow path for flowing air) for each of the distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13.

The switching devices 31, 32, and 33 will be described on behalf of the switching device 33 of the third distribution block 13. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the third distribution block 13 (a cross-sectional view taken along arrow D in FIG. 27). The third distribution block 13 is composed of four valve units b4 to b7, and the end of the valve shaft 28a which each of these valve units b4 to b7 has corresponds to a single operating air cell 33a. It touches. The operating air cell 33a is long in the arrangement direction of the valve units b4 to b7, and all (four) valve shafts 28a are arranged in parallel to the operating air cell 33a. The third distribution block 13 has a stop member 20 having a wall 20a facing the end surface 19 of the valve units b4 to b7, and an operating air cell 33a is provided in the space between the wall 20a and the end surface 19. It has been.

The operating air cell 33a is connected to the pump 6 (see FIG. 2) via a control electromagnetic valve S3. The air cell 33a for operation expands when air is supplied from the pump 6 side, and all (four) valve shafts 28a can be pushed at the same time to move the valve body 29 to the same displacement amount. . As a result, the position of all the valve bodies 29 of the valve units b4 to b7 can be changed collectively. Thereby, in the 3rd distribution block 13, a flow path is switched collectively.
That is, also in this embodiment, the third distribution block 13 includes four valve bodies 29 whose positions change in order to switch the flow paths, and a switching actuator that changes the positions of these valve bodies 29 collectively and switches the flow paths collectively. (Operation air cell 33a).

Then, the control device 10 controls the switching devices 31, 32, 33 (that is, controls the control electromagnetic valves S1, S2, S3) to switch the flow path, and the input port P1 and the eight output ports D1. Air can flow between D8. In addition, this air distribution unit 7 is also applicable to the massage machine of FIG.7, FIG.9, FIG.11, FIG.17 and FIG.

As described above, according to the third embodiment (FIG. 24) and the fourth embodiment (FIG. 27) of the air distribution unit 7, the unit main body portion 14 provided in the air distribution unit 7 has the valve units b1 to b7. A plurality of case main bodies 30 mainly constituting each of them are provided, and a single branch portion is formed inside each case main body 30. Then, with reference to FIG. 31, as a switching device that switches the flow direction of air in these branch portions collectively in units of distribution blocks, the valve body 29 that changes its position in order to switch the flow direction of air in the branch portion, and this valve body 29 has a valve shaft 28a to which the position is changed together with the valve body 29, and an operating air cell 33a.

Furthermore, each case main body 30 has a bearing hole 30b through which the valve shaft 28a is inserted and supported so that the position of the valve body 29 and the valve shaft 28a can be changed in a linear direction. The case main body 30 of each of the valve units b4 to b7 is manufactured separately and independently. The bearing hole 30b of one case main body 30 and the bearing hole 30b of the other case main body 30 are different from each other. It has a configuration in which holes are individually drilled.

That is, the plurality of case main body portions 30 are arranged such that the hole direction of the bearing hole portion 30b of one case main body portion 30 is parallel to the hole direction of the bearing hole portion 30b of the other case main body portion 30. ing. The valve body 29 and the valve shaft 28a in the branch portion of one case main body 30 and the valve body 29 and the valve shaft 28a in the branch portion of the other case main body 30 are arranged in parallel.

According to the 3rd form (Drawing 24) and the 4th form (Drawing 27) which have such composition, hole processing in one case body part 30 and hole processing in other case body parts 30 are carried out separately. As a result, the processing becomes easy, and the dimensional accuracy is easily ensured. That is, for example, in the form of FIG. 23, a hole for inserting the long spool 26 is necessary, and for this reason, a long stroke hole processing is required by a drill. In this case, it is difficult to ensure the dimensional accuracy of the holes. However, according to the configuration of FIG. 24 and FIG. 27, the length of drilling (for example, one stroke of the drill) can be shortened, and dimensional accuracy can be easily ensured.

Further, in the third distribution block 13 shown in FIG. 31, the operation air cell 33a for operating all the valve bodies 29 together is, for example, a resin-made flat bag shape, and each part has flexibility. is doing. Thereby, one valve shaft 28a is independently pushed by the operation air cell 33a without being influenced by the other valve shaft 28a. Therefore, in each case main body 30, the valve body 29 fixed to the valve shaft 28 a can independently ensure airtightness at the branch portion.
On the other hand, the third distribution block 13 in the embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 4 has a configuration in which all the valve bodies 23a to 23d are fixed to one shaft 33b. In order to ensure airtightness, high assembly accuracy and high manufacturing accuracy are required. However, according to the form of FIG. 31, in order to ensure airtightness in all the valve bodies 29, it is not necessary to require a very high assembly accuracy and high manufacturing accuracy.

Further, in the third distribution block 13 of FIG. 31 and the third distribution block 13 of FIGS. 3 and 4, the force (including the sliding resistance) necessary to move one valve element is F. Then, in order to move the four valve bodies by the operating air cell 33a, four times as much force (4 × F force) is required. In order for the operating air cell 33a to have this force (4 × F force), in the case of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the operating air cell 33a is configured to be small, so that a large pressure is required. On the other hand, in the third distribution block 13 of FIG. 31, the operation air cell 33a is configured to be large so that all the valve shafts 28a arranged in parallel can be pushed together. Therefore, the pressure required for the operation air cell 33a to have the force (4 × F force) can be small.

In the case of the configuration of FIG. 3, the number of valve bodies is different for each distribution block, and thus the force required for the operation air cell is different for each distribution block. For this reason, the pressure of the air supplied to the operating air cell is different in all distribution blocks. For this reason, a mechanism for adjusting the air pressure is required.
On the other hand, in the case of the form of FIG.27 and FIG.31, since the air cell for operation | movement is comprised by the magnitude | size according to the number of valve bodies in each distribution block, the pressure of the air supplied to the air cell for operation | movement is set. , Can be the same for all distribution blocks.

Further, as shown in FIG. 27, all of the plurality of distribution blocks 11, 12, 13 arranged in the direction from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8 are linear in one direction. They are arranged side by side. In this way, even if the multi-stage distribution blocks 11, 12, and 13 are provided, by configuring the air distribution unit 7 to be long in one direction, the dimension in the direction orthogonal to the one direction can be reduced. The air distribution unit 7 can be made compact. Although not shown, the first distribution block 11 and the second distribution block 12 are arranged linearly in one direction, and the first distribution block 11 and the second distribution block 12 are arranged in two rows (in parallel). Thus, the third distribution block 13 may be provided.

In the form of FIG. 30, the case main body 30 has a divided structure having a plurality of (two) case divided bodies 30c and 30d in order to make the valve body 29 accommodated in the branching portion 11d. . And these several case division bodies 30c and 30d are assembled so that separation is impossible by interference fit. More specifically, the case body 30 includes an outer case divided body 30c in which a recess 30e is formed, and an inner case divided body 30d that fits into the recess 30e. A diameter D1 of the inner case divided body 30d is configured to be larger than an inner diameter D2 of the recess 30e. Thereby, when assembling case division bodies 30c and 30d, for example, welding, screw processing for screw fastening, etc. are unnecessary, and manufacture of case body part 30 becomes easy.
In the form of FIG. 31, in the third distribution block 13, the four case main body portions 30 are separately manufactured and connected to each other. However, the four case main body portions 30 are configured as a single unit. May be.

FIG. 33 shows a modification of the valve unit b1 of FIG. 30, where (a) is a plan view and (b) is a cross-sectional view. The valve unit b1 in FIG. 33 and the valve unit b1 in FIG. 30 have the same basic configuration for flowing air. A different configuration is the case body 30. The case main body 30 of FIG. 33 has a divided structure having two case divided bodies 30f and 30g. These case division bodies 30f and 30g are connected by fixing members 30h such as bolts. By using the fixing member 30h as a bolt, the case body 30 can be easily disassembled when maintenance of the valve body 29 or the like is required. Further, between the case divided bodies 30f and 30g, the airtightness is maintained by the packing 30i.

[Leak valve and quick exhaust valve]
In each of the above embodiments, the air distribution unit 7 includes a leak valve and a quick exhaust valve. The leak valve and the quick exhaust valve are provided as necessary between the output ports D1 to D8 and the air cells A to H connected correspondingly. In FIG. 32, a leak valve 35c and a quick exhaust valve 36c provided between the output port D3 and the air cell C are representatively shown.

The leak valve 35c has a valve portion 37a biased by a spring 38, and a main body portion 37b that accommodates the valve portion 37a, and an outer peripheral side surface of the valve portion 37a and an inner peripheral side surface of the main body portion 37b. A gap is formed between the two. When the air flowing from the output port D3 reaches the leak valve 35c and the pressure of the air is small, the position of the valve portion 37a cannot be changed by the urging force of the spring 38 (state shown in FIG. 32A). The air can be exhausted to the atmosphere (outside) through the gap. As a result, even if air leaks slightly from the unit main body portion 14 of the air distribution unit 7 to the downstream side, since the pressure of the air is small, the air can be exhausted from the leak valve 35c, and the leaked air Can be prevented from flowing into the air cell C and expanding.

On the other hand, when the output port D3 is selected by the control device 10 to cause the air cell C to flow and expand, the pressure of the air is large, so that the valve portion 37a changes its position against the spring 38 by the air. (State shown in FIG. 32B). Thus, the leak valve 35c is closed by the tip of the valve portion 37a coming into contact with the seal portion 39 of the main body portion 37b, and the supplied air can flow to the air cell C side. The leak valve 35c is particularly effective in the case of a form in which air leakage is relatively likely to occur (for example, a form in which the spool of FIG. 23 is employed).
The quick exhaust valve 36c is provided on the downstream side (air cell C side) of the leak valve 35, and is for urging the air cell C to contract.

According to the present invention, the unit main body 14 of the air distribution unit 7 is configured such that the flow path increases from the input port P1 to the plurality of output ports D1 to D8. It has a configuration having many output ports D1 to D8, and many air actuators can be connected. In addition, the air distribution unit 7 can be connected to many air actuators, but it is sufficient that a switching device is provided for each distribution block. Therefore, the number of switching devices may be small, and the configuration can be simplified.

The massage machine of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated form, and may be of other forms within the scope of the present invention. Although the case where the air distribution unit 7 is applied to the armrest portion 4 has been described in the above embodiment, the present invention can be applied to the seat portion 1 and the footrest 3 in addition to this.
Further, although the air actuator connected to the output port and the switching actuator have been described as the air cell, other than this (not shown), an air cylinder having a piston may be used.

Claims (13)

1. A pump that discharges air, a plurality of air actuators that operate by supplying and discharging air, and a flow path formed therein so that air can be supplied from the pump and sent to the plurality of air actuators An air distribution unit, and a control unit for controlling the operation of the air actuator,
   The air distribution unit is
   An input port to which air is supplied from the pump;
   A plurality of output ports respectively connected to the plurality of air actuators;
   A plurality of distribution portions arranged in a direction from the input port toward the plurality of output ports, and a branching portion of the flow path is formed in each of the distribution portions; A unit main body configured to increase the flow path to the plurality of output ports for each distribution unit;
   A switching unit that is provided for each distribution unit and collectively switches the direction in which air flows in the branching unit in units of the distribution unit;
   Have
   The control unit switches the flow path by controlling the switching unit in order to select an output port through which air can flow between the plurality of output ports and the input port. Massage machine.
2. The switching unit includes a valve body that changes position in order to switch a direction in which air flows in the branching unit, and a switching actuator that changes the position of the valve body collectively in units of the distributing unit. The listed massage machine.
3. The massage machine according to claim 2, wherein the switching actuator is an air type operated by air supplied from the pump.
4. The unit main body has a plurality of case main bodies in which the branch portions are formed one by one,
   The switching unit includes a valve body that changes position in order to switch a direction in which air flows in the branch part, and a valve shaft that is attached to the valve body and changes position together with the valve body,
   The case main body has a bearing hole that supports the valve shaft so that the valve body and the valve shaft can change positions in a linear direction,
   The massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the bearing hole portion of one case main body portion and the bearing hole portion of another case main body portion adjacent to the one case main body portion are individually machined.
5. 5. The plurality of case body portions are provided so that a hole direction of the bearing hole portion of the one case body portion is parallel to a hole direction of the bearing hole portion of the other case body portion. The massage machine described in.
6. The case main body is a divided structure having a plurality of case divided bodies in order to make the valve body housed in the branch portion,
   The massage machine according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the case divided bodies are assembled so as not to be separated by an interference fit.
7. The at least two distribution units among the plurality of distribution units arranged in a direction from the input port to the plurality of output ports are arranged side by side in one direction. The listed massage machine.
8. The output port other than the output port that is connected to the input port by the control unit controlling the switching unit is in a closed state in which the passage of air is restricted. The massage machine according to any one of 5.
9. The control unit includes a switching signal to be supplied to the switching unit to control the operation of the switching unit, and the output port connected to the input port by switching a direction in which the switching unit flows air according to the switching signal. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a storage unit that stores relationship information having a relationship of.
10. Allow air flow from one output port to the air actuator between one output port of the plurality of output ports and the air actuator connected to at least two other output ports. Connected through a check valve
    The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the control unit controls the switching unit so that an output port through which air flows between the input port and the input port becomes the one output port.
11. A supply / discharge switching valve for switching from an air supply state in which the pump supplies air to the input port to an exhaust state in which air flowing from the output port to the input port can be discharged to the outside; The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
12. Allowing an air flow from the air actuator to the one output port between one output port of the plurality of output ports and the air actuator connected to at least two other output ports. Connected through a check valve
    The control unit controls the supply / exhaust switching valve so as to be in an exhaust state, and controls the switching unit so that an output port through which air flows to and from the input port becomes the one output port. The massage machine according to claim 11.
13. An air distribution unit having a flow path formed therein so that air supplied from a pump that discharges air can be sent to a plurality of air actuators that operate by supplying and discharging air,
    An input port to which air is supplied from the pump;
    A plurality of output ports respectively connected to the plurality of air actuators;
    A plurality of distribution portions arranged in a direction from the input port toward the plurality of output ports, and a branching portion of the flow path is formed in each of the distribution portions; A unit main body configured to increase the flow path to the plurality of output ports for each distribution unit;
    A switching unit that is provided for each of the distribution units, and that switches the direction in which the air flows in the branching unit in units of the distribution units,
    An air distribution unit, wherein the flow path is switched by controlling the switching unit in order to select an output port through which air can flow between the plurality of output ports and the input port. .

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