WO2019151136A1

WO2019151136A1 - Muscle electric stimulation device

Info

Publication number: WO2019151136A1
Application number: PCT/JP2019/002493
Authority: WO
Inventors: 松下　剛
Original assignee: 株式会社Mtg
Priority date: 2018-01-31
Filing date: 2019-01-25
Publication date: 2019-08-08
Also published as: TWI808122B; JPWO2019151136A1; TW201940205A; CN111655327A; KR20200112882A; JP7386710B2

Abstract

In this muscle electric stimulation device 10 which applies electric stimulation to a muscle, a sensor detects information pertaining to the body of a user. A control unit controls the voltage applied between electrodes and processes the information detected by the sensor. The sensor detects information for estimating the muscle amounts in each of a plurality of body regions to which electric stimulation is applied. The control unit estimates a muscle balance in the plurality of body regions on the basis of the detected information, and controls the voltage in accordance with the muscle balance.

Description

Muscle electrical stimulator

The present invention relates to a muscular electrical stimulation device.

An example of an exercise device used for human physical exercise is a muscle electrical stimulation device. The muscle electrical stimulation device can be expected to increase muscle strength by exercising the muscle by applying a weak current to the muscle to cause the muscle to be tensioned and relaxed. Conventionally, for example, an electrical muscular stimulation device as described in Patent Document 1 has been proposed.

JP 2017-6644 A

Since the muscular electrical stimulation device is attached to the user's body, the present inventor contemplates various methods for enhancing the convenience of the muscular electrical stimulation device itself as well as various secondary utilization methods related to the body. It came.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an electrical muscular stimulation device with improved convenience.

In order to solve the above-described problems, a muscle electrical stimulation device according to an aspect of the present invention is a muscle electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to muscles, and is applied between a sensor that detects information related to a user's body and an electrode. A control unit that controls the voltage and processes information detected by the sensor.

It should be noted that any combination of the above-described components, or components and expressions of the present invention that are mutually replaced between methods, apparatuses, programs, recording media on which the programs are recorded, systems, and the like are also aspects of the present invention. It is effective as

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrical muscular stimulation device with improved convenience.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the exercise equipment control system which concerns on embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the exercise equipment control system which concerns on another aspect. It is a figure which shows the example of an external appearance of the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus which is an example of an exercise device. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a muscular electrical stimulation apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows the functional structure of an exercise device control apparatus. It is a functional block diagram which shows the function structure of an information management server. It is a side view which shows the use condition of a muscular electrical stimulation apparatus. The example of a screen on which an avatar is displayed is shown.

Since the muscular electrical stimulation device is attached to the user's body, it can detect various biological information and operation states regarding the state of the user's body. As the muscular electrical stimulation device, various secondary utilization methods relating to the body and various methods for improving the convenience of the muscular electrical stimulation device itself can be considered by detecting various biological information and operation states.

The muscle electrical stimulation device according to the present embodiment is a muscle electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to muscles, and controls a sensor that detects information related to the user's body and a voltage that is applied between electrodes, and is detected by the sensor. And a control unit for processing the processed information.

"Muscle electrical stimulation device" is an example of "Exercise equipment", and it can be applied to exercise equipment used for various sports and beauty purposes in addition to electrical muscle stimulation devices that support physical exercise of living organisms including humans. May be. "Biometric information" is information about the body such as vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, body temperature, etc.), fat and muscle thickness, water and blood flow, skin gas (ammonia, acetone, nitrogen dioxide, acetic acid, etc.) In addition to the information, it may widely include information indicating the movement state of the body and the amount of activity. The information indicating the movement state and the amount of activity of the body may include information serving as a basis for indirect estimation in addition to the value directly indicating the movement state and the amount of activity. For example, a value indicating the state of each muscle for estimating the user's body shape and posture, a value indicating the movement of muscles and organs for estimating the user's heart rate, and a current flowing through the body for estimating the user's motion Value, electrical resistance value, potential change, capacitance, acceleration of a predetermined body part, biomagnetism, and the like.

The sensor detects information for estimating the muscle mass of each of the plurality of body parts to which the electrical stimulation is applied, and the control unit estimates the muscle balance of the plurality of body parts based on the detected information, and the muscle balance The voltage may be controlled according to the above.

According to this aspect, based on the information about the user's body, the operation mode of the muscular electrical stimulation device is adjusted to a more appropriate value, feedback is made so as to become a more effective program, and useful information for the user is provided. Can be provided, and convenience can be enhanced.

Hereinafter, the same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description will be omitted as appropriate. In addition, the dimensions of the members in each drawing are appropriately enlarged or reduced for easy understanding. Also, in the drawings, some of the members that are not important for describing the embodiment are omitted.

<Exercise equipment control system>
Drawing 1 is a mimetic diagram showing exercise equipment control system 100 concerning an embodiment. The exercise equipment control system 100 includes muscle electrical stimulation devices 10a to 10g as exercise equipment, an information terminal as an exercise equipment control device 12, and an information management server 14 for managing information. The electrical muscular stimulation device 10 includes a type (muscle electrical stimulation device 10a-f) that is worn on each body part such as the user's abdominal muscles, flank, arm, and leg, and a type in which the user places both feet (muscle electrical stimulation device 10g). There is. The muscle electrical stimulation device 10 applies electrical stimulation to a user's muscle with a weak current. Each of the muscle electrical stimulation devices 10a to 10g communicates with the exercise equipment control device 12 through short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) to transmit and receive information. An exercise equipment control program executed in the exercise equipment control device 12 communicates with the electrical muscle stimulation devices 10a to 10g to control respective settings and operations of the electrical muscle stimulation devices 10a to 10g. The exercise equipment control device 12 is connected to the network 15 via wireless communication such as wireless LAN or mobile phone communication, and transmits / receives information to / from the information management server 14. The information management server 14 manages the update of the exercise equipment control program executed by the exercise equipment control device 12 and receives and manages the exercise setting information and the result information from the exercise equipment control device 12. As a modification, each muscular electrical stimulation device may connect to the network 15 and communicate with the information management server 14 or the like without using the exercise equipment control device 12.

The exercise equipment control device 12 is a variety of information terminals operated by a user, such as a mobile phone terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, and a personal computer. The exercise equipment control device 12 sets the correspondence between the muscle electrical stimulation devices 10a to 10g and the body part using the muscle electrical stimulation device 10, and controls the strength setting and operation for each muscle electrical stimulation device 10. The strength of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 can be set or operated alone, and the user may directly operate the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 or may operate it via the exercise equipment control device 12. Since the exercise equipment control device 12 functions as a hub of the plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices 10a to 10g, the user uses the exercise equipment control device 12 rather than setting and operating the plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices 10a to 10g individually. It is more efficient to operate and collectively control the plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices 10a to 10g.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an exercise equipment control system 100 according to another aspect. In this aspect, while a plurality of users are simultaneously subjected to electrical stimulation by a plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices, they can move their bodies according to instructions according to the electrical stimulation pattern, thereby making it more efficient in a shorter time. It is premised on the exercise program to strengthen muscles. The exercise equipment control system 100 includes a plurality of fitness wears 102 equipped with a plurality of electrical stimulation modules, an exercise equipment control device 12, a display control device 104, and a display device 106. One set or a plurality of sets are installed in a fitness gym studio with the exercise equipment control device 12, the display control device 104, and the display device 106 as a set, and one set of fitness for each of a plurality of users, for example, up to 7 people per set. Wear 102 and one set of upper and lower inner wear (not shown) are prepared. The electrical stimulation module is attached to each part of the fitness wear 102 so that electrical stimulation can be applied to each body part such as the user's abdominal muscles, flank, chest muscles, back muscles, arms, legs, and buttocks. A plurality of electrical stimulation modules are attached to each of fitness wear 102 for a plurality of users. An exercise control program instructed to start execution through communication with the exercise equipment control device 12 controls voltage setting and operation in each of a plurality of electrical stimulation modules of a plurality of users. The exercise equipment control device 12 transmits and receives information to and from the display control device 104 through a local area network via the network cable 108. The display control device 104 is a computer that displays an image of exercise on the display device 106 in accordance with an instruction of an exercise control program executed by the exercise equipment control device 12.

The exercise equipment control device 12 is an information terminal operated by a fitness gym trainer or a user. The exercise equipment control device 12 controls intensity setting and operation for each user and for each electrical stimulation module. Since the exercise equipment control device 12 functions as a hub for a plurality of electrical stimulation modules for a plurality of users, the trainer or the user operates the exercise equipment control device 12 rather than setting and operating the plurality of electrical stimulation modules individually. Therefore, it is more efficient to collectively control a plurality of electrical stimulation modules. Further, the operations for a plurality of users can be synchronized and controlled by the same program all at once.

The exercise equipment control device 12 displays on the display device 106 via the display control device 104 in a form that synchronizes the explanation of the exercise program and the image of the movement with the control of the plurality of electrical stimulation modules. However, considering the delay of wireless communication with each electrical stimulation module, the motion image is not displayed at the timing completely synchronized with the control pulse of the electrical stimulation module, but the image is displayed at a timing delayed by a predetermined period. It may be displayed. The display control device 104 may include a camera that can capture a user's movement, captures a video of a user who is performing an exercise in accordance with an exercise program, and a skeleton based on an analysis of the video or the user's motion. An image that reproduces the movement may be displayed on the display device 106.

As described above, the exercise program in the present embodiment includes an exercise control program for controlling the voltage by the electrical stimulation module, and a control signal such as a start signal for a plurality of electrical stimulation modules of a plurality of users by the exercise equipment control device 12. This is realized in conjunction with a motion control program that displays a synchronized video on the display device 106 while transmitting. In addition, each user executes the exercise program by moving his / her body using the image displayed on the display device 106 as a model.

<Exercise equipment>
FIG. 3 shows an example of the appearance of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 which is an example of an exercise apparatus. 3A is a plan view of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10a, FIG. 3B is an enlarged plan view of the housing portion, and FIG. 3C is a plan view of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10a from the back side. Fig. 2 (d) is a rear view of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10a. The electrical muscular stimulation device 10a includes a housing 20, a cover 24, a first base material 26, a second base material 27, a first electrode group 31, a second electrode group 32, a third electrode group 33, and a fourth electrode group 34. Prepare. The main body of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10a mainly composed of the cover 24, the first base material 26, and the second base material 27 is attached to the abdominal muscle portion 21a that is a portion to be attached to a human abdominal muscle and the right flank. It includes a right flank portion 21b which is a portion and a left flank portion 21c which is a portion attached to the left flank.

The housing 20 is provided at the center of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10a. As shown in FIG. 3B, the casing 20 is made of resin and has a substantially elliptical shape in plan view. The housing 20 houses a power supply unit such as a lithium ion battery and a control unit (both will be described later with reference to FIG. 4). On the plane side of the housing 20, a plus button 20a, a minus button 20b, an abdominal muscle designation button 20c, and a flank designation button 20d are provided as operation units. The plus button 20a, the minus button 20b, the abdominal muscle designation button 20c, and the flank designation button 20d are formed in a cantilever state by hollowing out a part of the housing 20.

The first base material 26 and the second base material 27 are overlapped to form one base material. The cover 24 is formed of an elastomer such as silicon. The cover 24 covers the first base material 26 and the plane (front surface) side of the housing. That is, the cover 24, the first base material 26, and the second base material 27 are superposed in this order from the plane side. The cover 24, the first base material 26, the second base material 27, and the housing 20 are joined by an adhesive tape or an adhesive. A symbol “+” protrudes from the cover 24 covering the plus button 20a, and a symbol “−” protrudes from the cover 24 covering the minus button 20b. A character string “FRONT” protrudes from the cover 24 covering the abdominal muscle designation button 20c, and a character string “SIDE” protrudes from the cover 24 covering the flank designation button 20d. The 1st base material 26 and the 2nd base material 27 are thin sheet-like members, for example, are formed with resin, such as polyethylene terephthalate.

The muscle electrical stimulation device 10 includes one or more pairs of positive and negative electrodes. In the case of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10a, the first electrode group 31 includes electrodes 31a to 31c, the second electrode group 32 includes electrodes 32a to 32c, and the third electrode group 33 includes

electrodes

33a and 33b. The fourth electrode group 34 includes

electrodes

34a and 34b. Each electrode is disposed on the back surface of the first base material 26, that is, the surface that contacts the abdominal muscles and the flank, and is exposed from each opening provided at each electrode position in the second base material 27. Each electrode is made of conductive ink and printed on the back surface of the first base material 26. Electricity is passed between the

electrodes

31a and 32a, between the

electrodes

31b and 32b, between the

electrodes

31c and 32c, between the

electrodes

33a and 34a, and between the

electrodes

33b and 34b. In the second substrate 27, the openings 35a, b, c, d, e, f, g, h, i, j are

electrodes

34a, 33a, 31a, 31b, 31c, 32a, 32b, 32c, 33b, respectively. It is provided at a position corresponding to each of 34b.

In the case of the electrode arrangement as shown in FIG. 3C, the right and left abdominal rectus muscles are energized in the lateral direction between the first electrode group 31 and the second electrode group 32. It is good also as electrode arrangement | positioning which supplies with electricity to a vertical direction (height direction) each independently with respect to a rectus abdominis muscle. In this case, for example, electrical stimulation is independently applied only to the first rectus abdominal muscle only by the first electrode group 31, and electrical stimulation is independently performed only to the second abdominal rectus muscle only by the second electrode group 32. Add. Thereby, electrical stimulations having different voltage values can be applied to the left and right rectus abdominis muscles.

A gel-like adhesive pad (not shown) is attached to the periphery of each opening and each electrode, and the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 is attached to each body part by the adhesiveness of the adhesive pad. An elongated hook-and-loop band (not shown) is attached to the end of the right flank portion 21b and the end of the left flank portion 21c. The muscular electrical stimulation device 10 is fixed by rotating the loop fastener band around the human torso and fastening it with an appropriate length. The adhesive pad has conductivity, and electricity is supplied from each electrode to the user's body part through the adhesive pad. The adhesive pad is replaced when, for example, a decrease in adhesive strength or an increase in electrical resistance occurs due to a decrease in the amount of water, damage, or dirt becomes conspicuous with use.

Information related to the user's body is provided in any of the housing 20, the first base material 26, the second base material 27, the first electrode group 31, the second electrode group 32, the third electrode group 33, and the fourth electrode group 34. A sensor to detect is provided. The sensor will be described later.

In FIG. 3, the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 a of the type that is attached to the abdominal muscles and the flank is illustrated, but the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 of the type that is attached to other body parts also has a shape suitable for the attachment of the body part. Thus, a base material is formed, and a number of electrodes suitable for energizing the body part are provided. Similarly, the electrical stimulation module attached to the fitness wear 102 of FIG. 2 is configured to include one or more pairs of positive and negative electrodes, a housing, and a base material.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10. The electrical muscular stimulation device 10 includes a power supply unit 22, a first base material 26, and a control unit 28. The control unit 28 includes a power supply control unit 50, a skin detection unit 52, an electrical stimulation control unit 54, a setting unit 56, and a communication unit 58. The power supply unit 22 is a secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery, but may be a replaceable primary battery. The power supply unit 22 is electrically connected to the control unit 28 and supplies power.

The first substrate 26 includes a sensor 40 in addition to the first electrode group 31, the second electrode group 32, the third electrode group 33, and the fourth electrode group 34. In the drawing, an example in which the sensor 40 is included in the first base material 26 will be described. However, any one or each of the first electrode group 31, the second electrode group 32, the third electrode group 33, and the fourth electrode group 34 is described. The specification including the sensor 40 may be used. Alternatively, the specification may be such that the sensor 40 is not included in the first base material 26 or each electrode group, and the sensor 40 is included in the power supply unit 22.

Each block of the control unit 28 can be realized by hardware such as a computer CPU (central processing unit) or a mechanical device, and can be realized by a computer program or the like in software. The functional block realized by those cooperation is drawn. Accordingly, it is understood by those skilled in the art who have touched this specification that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by a combination of hardware and software. The same applies to each block in FIGS.

The power supply control unit 50 controls charging of the power supply unit 22 and transmits information indicating the charging state to the exercise equipment control device 12 via the communication unit 58.

The skin detection unit 52 detects whether the electrode is in contact with the skin based on the electrical resistance value received from the sensor 40. The sensor 40 in this case is a bioimpedance measuring device, for example. The skin detection unit 52 acquires electrical resistance values between the first electrode group 31 and the second electrode group 32 and between the third electrode group 33 and the fourth electrode group 34. The skin detection unit 52 detects that the electrode is in contact with the skin when the detected electrical resistance value is less than the threshold value, and detects that the electrode is not in contact with the skin when the detected electrical resistance value is greater than or equal to the threshold value. To do.

When the skin detection unit 52 detects that the electrode is in contact with the skin, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 has a predetermined operation time (for example, 23 minutes) and a predetermined period (for example, a period at which the frequency is 20 Hz). A set voltage is applied between the electrodes. That is, for example, electrical stimulation is applied to the user's abdominal muscles and flank. The setting unit 56 accepts operation inputs of the plus button 20 a and the minus button 20 b arranged above and below, and increases or decreases the set voltage value applied by the electrical stimulation control unit 54. That is, the setting unit 56 increases the set voltage value every time the user presses the plus button 20a, and decreases the set voltage value every time the user presses the minus button 20b. As the set voltage value, for example, any value can be set as 20 levels of intensity. The setting unit 56 further receives operation inputs of the abdominal muscle designation button 20c and the flank designation button 20d arranged on the left and right sides, and determines which set voltage value of the abdominal muscle portion 21a and the left and right flank portions 21b and c is to be operated. . When the user wants to operate the set voltage value of the abdominal muscles, the user adjusts the set voltage value with the plus button 20a and the minus button 20b after pressing the abdominal muscle designation button 20c. When it is desired to operate the set voltage value on the flank, the set voltage value is adjusted with the plus button 20a and the minus button 20b after the flank designation button 20d is pressed. The electrical stimulation control unit 54 increases or decreases the operation time, the period, the set voltage value, and the like based on the value detected by the sensor 40. A control method according to the type of the sensor 40 will be described later.

The communication unit 58 receives information on the set voltage from the exercise equipment control device 12 via short-range wireless communication and sends the information to the setting unit 56. When the communication unit 58 receives information on the set voltage value or information for instructing increase or decrease of the set voltage value from the exercise equipment control device 12, the setting unit 56 increases or decreases the set voltage value based on the received information. . Each time the set voltage value is increased or decreased, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 applies a voltage between the electrodes with a new set voltage value, so that the user can feel and confirm the new set voltage value, that is, the exercise intensity. Let The communication unit 58 increases or decreases the set voltage value when an instruction to increase or decrease exercise intensity is received from the exercise equipment control device 12 during exercise, that is, during voltage application. However, even if an instruction to increase / decrease exercise intensity is received from a device other than the connected exercise equipment control device 12, it is ignored and does not follow the instruction to increase / decrease exercise intensity from another device. This is to prevent the voltage value from being arbitrarily increased or decreased by others other than the user. The communication unit 58 transmits information indicating the voltage application state by the electrical stimulation control unit 54, that is, information indicating the exercise execution state, to the exercise equipment control device 12. The communication unit 58 transmits information detected by the sensor 40 to the exercise equipment control device 12.

<Exercise equipment control device>
FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the exercise equipment control device 12. The exercise equipment control device 12 includes a control unit 70, a communication unit 71, and a display unit 72. The control unit 70 includes a communication processing unit 60, a type determination unit 61, a correspondence determination unit 62, a setting processing unit 63, an appliance control unit 64, a display control unit 65, and an information management unit 66.

The communication unit 71 transmits / receives information to / from the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 by short-range wireless communication, and transmits / receives information to / from the information management server 14 via a communication means such as a mobile phone communication network or a wireless LAN. To do. The control unit 70 transmits and receives information to and from the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 and the information management server 14 via the communication unit 71. The display unit 72 is a touch panel display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, and displays information on a screen and accepts a user operation input.

The communication processing unit 60 transmits / receives information to / from the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 via the communication unit 71. The information received from each of the plurality of types of exercise equipment by the communication processing unit 60 differs for each type of exercise equipment. For example, the information received from each exercise equipment includes identification information indicating the type of exercise equipment and the type of exercise. The information received from each exercise equipment may include individual identification information used for user registration and individual management and a unique network address (MAC address).

The type determining unit 61 specifies the type of exercise using the exercise equipment from a plurality of types based on the received information. The type determining unit 61 stores in advance, for each type of exercise equipment, the types of exercise possible with that type of exercise equipment. The type determination unit 61 stores in advance exercise equipment names or exercise types such as “Abs + Waist”, “Abs”, “Arm”, “Leg”, and “Body”. The type determining unit 61 specifies the type of exercise by specifying the type of exercise equipment based on the received information. Here, if an exercise device or an exercise type is specified such as “Abs + Waist” or “Abs”, the body part where the device is used may be uniquely determined, such as “abdominal muscles + flank”, “abdominal muscles”. In other exercise equipment, the body part to be used is not necessarily determined uniquely. For example, “Arm” is used for either the right arm or the left arm, and whether it is used for the front or the back of the arm is not determined unless specified by the user. Similarly, whether “Leg” is used for the right leg or the left leg and whether it is used for the front surface or the back surface of the leg is not specified unless specified by the user. Since “Body” can be used for any of the flank, arm, and leg, the body part to be used is not determined unless specified by the user. Therefore, the body part to be used is specified as follows depending on the type of exercise equipment or exercise type.

The correspondence determining unit 62 identifies correspondences with separate exercise equipment for a plurality of body parts based on the respective exercise types identified for one or more exercise equipment. The correspondence determining unit 62 stores in advance one or more body parts that can exercise according to each type of exercise. The correspondence determination unit 62 is based on the operation input of the display unit 72 by the user when there are a plurality of body parts that can be exercised depending on the type of exercise, that is, when an exercise device that requires identification of the body parts is attached. The correspondence between body parts and exercise equipment is identified.

The setting processing unit 63 sets the operation content of the exercise equipment based on an operation input to the display unit 72 by the user. The setting processing unit 63 can set different operation contents for a plurality of body parts. The setting processing unit 63 sets the intensity of electrical stimulation by the muscular electrical stimulation device, that is, the voltage value of any one of the 20 levels as the operation content. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation content of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 based on the detection value of the sensor 40 acquired from the muscular electrical stimulation device 10. The adjustment of the operation content based on the detection value from the sensor 40 will be described later. In the present embodiment, the specification has been described in which both the electrical stimulation control unit 54 and the setting processing unit 63 adjust the operation content or the set voltage value of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 based on the detection value from the sensor 40. In the modification, only one of the electrical stimulation control unit 54 and the setting processing unit 63 may be configured to adjust the operation content or the set voltage value of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10.

The appliance control unit 64 transmits information indicating the operation content for each exercise device via the communication unit 71 based on the correspondence between the specified body part and the exercise device and the set operation content, and exercises by the exercise device To control. For example, the appliance control unit 64 controls the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 by transmitting an exercise start signal, a pause signal, an end signal, a voltage value signal, and the like to the electrical muscle stimulation device 10. On the other hand, in order to suppress battery consumption due to communication in the electrical muscular stimulation device 10, it is preferable in terms of design to keep communication to a minimum. For example, the voltage value set in the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 is stored in the information management unit 66, and the voltage value information is not acquired from the muscular electrical stimulation device 10. Alternatively, it may be determined that the exercise program has ended after a lapse of a predetermined time without transmitting / receiving an exercise end signal.

The display control unit 65 controls the screen display related to the correspondence between the body part and the exercise equipment, the operation content, and the exercise status. The display control unit 65 displays an image of the human body model and displays an image that dynamically shows the movement of the muscles during exercise in accordance with the control state of the exercise equipment. The display control unit 65 displays the contents visualized based on the value detected by the sensor 40 on the screen.

The information management unit 66 stores user registration information, attribute information, exercise result information, a detection value by the sensor 40, and the like. As user registration information and attribute information, for example, information such as an e-mail address, password, nickname, date of birth, height, weight, and sex is stored. The information management unit 66 determines the amount of exercise based on the action content set and executed for each body part as a result of the exercise for each body part using the coefficient for each body part, and records the accumulated amount of exercise. For example, the information management unit 66 may store a coefficient corresponding to an average muscle area or electrode area for each body part in advance, and calculate the product of the voltage value, the application time, and the coefficient as one exercise amount. The amount of exercise may be displayed using a unique unit such as “mp”. The information management unit 66 accumulates the calculated exercise amount and stores it as an accumulated exercise amount.

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing a functional configuration of the information management server 14. The information management server 14 includes a control unit 80 and a communication unit 81. The control unit 80 accumulates and manages information received from each of the plurality of exercise equipment control devices 12. The communication unit 81 transmits / receives information to / from each of the plurality of exercise equipment control devices 12 via communication means such as a mobile phone communication network or a wireless LAN.

The control unit 80 includes a communication processing unit 85 and an information management unit 86. The communication processing unit 85 transmits and receives information to and from the plurality of exercise equipment control devices 12 via the communication unit 81. The information management unit 86 accumulates and manages information received from the plurality of exercise equipment control devices 12. The information received from the exercise equipment control device 12 is, for example, setting information of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 for each exercise equipment control device 12, data of exercise results, and a detection value by the sensor 40. The information management unit 86 stores the exercise control program. When the exercise control program is updated, the information management unit 86 distributes a new version of the program to the exercise equipment control device 12 via the communication unit 81.

In addition, although the exercise equipment control system 100 in this embodiment is demonstrated as a structure containing the information management server 14, the exercise equipment control system 100 which does not contain the information management server 14 as another form is also realizable. In this case, setting information and exercise result information for each exercise equipment control device 12 are mainly stored in the storage means on the exercise equipment control device 12.

<Sensor>
As described above, any one of the case 20, the first base material 26, the second base material 27, the first electrode group 31, the second electrode group 32, the third electrode group 33, and the fourth electrode group 34 is connected to the user. A sensor 40 for detecting information related to the body is provided. By providing some kind of sensor in the muscular electrical stimulation device 10, it is possible to acquire the user's biological information and to detect the operation state and the operation state by the user. The acquired or detected information is recorded as a use history by the user or fed back to the control of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10. Hereinafter, examples of sensors provided in the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 will be listed.

There are Doppler sensors, ultrasonic sensors, bioimpedance measuring devices, near-infrared sensors, far-infrared sensors, skin gas sensors, thermometers, magnetic sensors and the like as sensors for detecting user's biological information. Examples of sensors that detect a user's operation state and activity amount include a Doppler sensor, a myoelectric potential sensor, a pressure sensor, an acceleration sensor, and a camera.

(1) Doppler sensor The Doppler sensor emits radio waves (microwaves), and detects the movement of the object by comparing the frequency of the reflected wave from the object with the frequency of the emitted wave. The Doppler sensor needs to be provided at a remote position that does not contact the user's body, which is the object. When the user's body is moving, the frequency of the reflected wave is changed by the Doppler effect, so that it can be determined whether the body is moving or stationary. For example, vital signs such as heart rate and respiration rate can be obtained by detecting body movements due to heart rate and respiration.

(2) Ultrasonic sensor An ultrasonic sensor is a sensor that emits ultrasonic waves and detects a distance based on the time when a reflected wave returns from an object. Based on the distance information detected by the ultrasonic sensor, the display control unit 65 of the exercise equipment control device 12 displays a cross-sectional image in which a cross section of the user's body is visualized on the display unit 72. By visualizing the cross section of the user's body, fat and muscle thickness can be measured. Further, the effect of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 can be measured based on the fat thickness and the muscle thickness history stored in the information management unit 66 and the information management unit 86. Unlike the Doppler sensor, the ultrasonic sensor needs to be provided at a position in contact with the user's body, which is the object. For example, it is provided on the rectus abdominis muscle at a position where the muscle size and contraction can be measured. Moreover, you may provide an ultrasonic sensor in the form of an ultrasonic probe which connects to the exercise device control apparatus 12 of FIG. As described above, the fat or muscle cross-sectional image visualized using the detection result by the ultrasonic sensor can be displayed on the screen. Moreover, by measuring the thickness of fat and muscle and recording this as a history, changes in fat loss and muscle growth can be measured. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like as the contents of training by the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 based on the thickness of fat or muscle, or according to changes in fat reduction or muscle increase. Also, the recommended frequency of training may be determined. In addition, it is good also as a specification which provides an ultrasonic sensor in the layer similar to an electrode in the 1st base material 26 or the 2nd base material 27. FIG. In that case, the gel-like adhesive pad affixed to an electrode can be used also as a gel-like member of an acoustic matching layer.

(3) Bioimpedance meter The bioimpedance meter measures the electrical resistance of the user's body by passing a weak current through the user's body. The body composition values such as fat mass, muscle mass, and moisture content can be estimated based on the relationship between the measured electrical resistance value and physical information such as the height, weight, age, and sex of the user stored in advance. The bioimpedance measuring device needs to be provided at a position in contact with the user's body in order to pass a weak current to the body, but instead of being provided as an independent sensor, the first electrode group 31, the second electrode group 32, the third electrode Instead of the electrode group 33 and the fourth electrode group 34, a weak current may be passed through these electrodes to measure the electrical resistance. Based on the electrical resistance value measured by the bioelectrical impedance measuring device, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 or the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the set voltage value of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 or analyzes whether the electrode position is appropriate. You can give feedback. Further, based on the result of the body composition analysis, the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like as the contents of the training by the electrical muscular stimulation device 10. Also, the recommended frequency of training may be determined.

(4) Near-infrared sensor A near-infrared sensor is based on the difference in the amount of reflection, absorption, and transmission when a near-infrared ray, which is an electromagnetic wave close to visible light, is irradiated on a user's body, for example, moisture in the user's body. Detect volume and blood flow. This makes it possible to measure the effects of training and vital signs such as the user's heart rate or pulse. For example, the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like according to changes in the water content and the blood flow rate. For example, the presence or absence of swelling may be determined, and blood flow may be promoted by muscular motion (single contraction) by electrical stimulation of less than 15 Hz according to the determination result.

(5) Far-infrared sensor A far-infrared sensor detects the far-infrared ray radiated | emitted from an object, and detects a minute temperature difference. For example, a change in the body temperature of the user or a body temperature distribution is detected and displayed on the display unit 72 by the display control unit 65 of the exercise equipment control device 12. Moreover, a sensor may be provided in several places so that body temperature may be detected from each of several body parts which apply electrical stimulation, and the difference in the exercise effect for every body part and the balance of exercise | movement may be estimated. For example, the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like according to these estimation results.

(6) Myoelectric potential sensor The myoelectric potential sensor measures myoelectric potential generated by muscle contraction, and detects a potential change during the operation of the muscle. Sensors may be provided at a plurality of locations so as to detect myoelectric potential from each of a plurality of body parts to which electrical stimulation is applied, and a difference in muscle movement, muscle fatigue, and muscle movement balance for each body part may be estimated. For example, the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like according to these estimation results.

(7) Skin gas sensor The skin gas sensor is a sensor that detects gas released from the skin surface, and can detect skin gas such as ammonia (NH ₃ ), acetone, nitrogen dioxide (NO ₂ ), and acetic acid. For example, when ammonia is detected by a skin gas sensor, user fatigue can be measured. When detecting acetone with a skin gas sensor, a user's fat burning amount can be measured. When detecting nitrogen dioxide with a skin gas sensor, a user's blood flow rate can be measured. When acetic acid is detected by a skin gas sensor, user fatigue can be measured. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operating time, period, waveform, and the like according to these measured values and changes thereof.

(8) Pressure sensor A pressure sensor detects the change of the electrostatic capacitance which arises by the deformation | transformation by pressure, and the change of the electrical resistance value of a strain gauge. For example, vital signs such as heart rate and respiration rate can be obtained by detecting body movements due to heart rate and respiration. Further, for example, the pressure of the belt when the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 is wound around the body may be detected by a pressure sensor to detect excessive tightening of the belt. The pressure when the user is seated may be detected by a pressure sensor. By providing a pressure sensor on the bottom surface of the type on which the user puts both feet (muscle electrical stimulation device 10g), the swing of the electrical muscle stimulation device 10g described later may be detected. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operating time, period, waveform, and the like according to these measured values and changes thereof.

(9) Acceleration sensor The acceleration sensor detects the speed of the user's muscle movement by detecting the acceleration of the object. Further, the magnitude of muscle contraction may be measured based on the momentum of the object. By providing an acceleration sensor in a type in which the user puts both feet (muscle electrical stimulation device 10g), swinging of the electrical muscle stimulation device 10g described later may be detected. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like according to these measured values, changes thereof, or differences in the speed of movement for each body part.

(10) Thermometer The thermometer detects the temperature of the object. For example, the body temperature of the user or the temperature of the environment is detected. Further, a humidity meter may be provided to further detect the environmental humidity. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, period, waveform, and the like according to changes in the user's body temperature and environmental temperature.

(11) Image sensor The image sensor is an image sensor that acquires an image of a subject. By detecting the body shape and movement of the user with the image sensor, the distortion and movement of the user's body are specified. As the image sensor, a camera built in the exercise equipment control device 12 may be used. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, the period, the waveform, and the like according to the strain and movement of the user's body.

(12) Biomagnetic sensor The biomagnetic sensor can obtain a vital sign such as a heart rate by detecting the biomagnetism of the user. The setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operating time, period, waveform, and the like according to these measured values and changes thereof.

(13) Abdominal girth measuring device In the case of the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus 10 of the type wound around the abdominal girth as shown in FIG. In addition, in the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 of the type that wraps around a body part such as an arm or a leg other than the abdomen, the circumference may be measured by providing a belt for measuring the circumference of an arm or a leg. Based on these measured values and other measured values, the user's body shape and body balance are estimated, and the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the operation time, period, waveform, and the like according to the estimation results.

By using detection values obtained by various sensors, for example, the following functions can be realized.
(1) Muscle balance The setting processing unit 63 uses various sensors such as a balance of muscle mass of each body part measured using a sensor such as an ultrasonic sensor or a bioelectrical impedance measuring instrument, or a myoelectric potential sensor or an infrared sensor. The movement time, period, and waveform are adjusted according to the balance of muscle movement and muscle fatigue of each body part measured in the above. That is, the setting processing unit 63 performs adjustment so that the training is performed in a direction to eliminate the imbalance between the left and right muscles and the upper and lower muscles. When it is measured that the muscle mass of the left and right abdominal rectus muscles and oblique abdominal muscles is unbalanced, the setting processing unit 63 uses the set voltage value corresponding to the left / right difference as the set voltage value corresponding to the smaller abdominal rectus muscle. A larger voltage value may be set for the muscle and the oblique muscle. When it is determined that the muscle mass of the left and right arms is unbalanced, the setting processing unit 63 sets a larger voltage value for the arm with the smaller muscle mass as the set voltage value corresponding to the left / right difference. May be set. When it is measured that the muscle masses of the left and right legs are unbalanced, the setting processing unit 63 sets a larger voltage value for the leg with the smaller muscle mass as the set voltage value according to the left-right difference. May be set. When it is measured that the upper and lower body muscle masses, the upper and lower muscle masses, the front and rear muscle masses, and the like are unbalanced, the setting processing unit 63 has a small muscle mass as a set voltage value corresponding to the difference. A larger voltage value may be set for one of the muscles. The setting processing unit 63 performs electrical stimulation suitable for the user in relation to fat mass and muscle mass, the ratio thereof, physical information such as the user's height, weight, age, and sex stored in advance, and the user's desired body type and exercise amount. Further, the voltage value may be set so as to be the momentum. As described above, more appropriate electrical stimulation can be applied in accordance with different body types and muscle masses depending on the user.

(2) Electrical stimulation according to heart rate When a vital sign such as a user's heart rate is obtained by a sensor such as a Doppler sensor, a near infrared sensor, a pressure sensor, or a biomagnetic sensor, the setting processing unit 63 Then, the set voltage value of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 is adjusted. When the user's heartbeat is monitored by these sensors, the setting processing unit 63 may promote blood flow in twitch by applying electrical stimulation with a waveform with timing matched to the heartbeat. The setting processing unit 63 suppresses training by lowering the set voltage value or the like when the heart rate increases too much beyond a predetermined value, and conversely, the set voltage value when the heart rate is low enough to fall below the predetermined value. Raise the strength. As described above, the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 can be used more effectively.

(3) Awareness of adhesive pad replacement A sensor detects whether or not the gel adhesive pad affixed to the electrode of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 has been replaced, for example. For example, the composition (particularly the amount of water) of the adhesive pad may be detected by a sensor such as a Doppler sensor, a bioimpedance meter, or a near infrared sensor. In order to detect the moisture content of the adhesive pad, the sensor may be arranged so that a part of the adhesive pad is sandwiched between the sensors. In addition to the specification that the bioimpedance measuring instrument measures the electrical resistance value of the adhesive pad while the electrode is energized with the user's body, dedicated impedance measurement for measuring the electrical resistance value of the adhesive pad It is good also as a specification which provides a container in the electrode vicinity. When the setting processing unit 63 determines that the adhesive pad is consumed and is in a state to be replaced, the display control unit 65 displays on the display unit 72 content prompting the user to replace the adhesive pad. Also, information indicating that the adhesive pad should be replaced is transmitted to the information management server 14 via the communication unit 71, and the communication processing unit 85 of the information management server 14 that has received the information places a new purchase order for the adhesive pad. It may be issued automatically for the user. As described above, the convenience of the user with respect to the replacement of the adhesive pad is enhanced, and appropriate use of the adhesive pad or the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 can be promoted to the user.

(4) Waveform adjustment When the thickness of fat and the amount of fat are large, it is difficult to energize, so the setting processing unit 63 adjusts the waveform according to the amount of fat in order to increase the frequency of electrical stimulation and increase energization. Specifically, the frequency of a pulse constituting the burst wave to be energized is adjusted to an appropriate depth and stimulation amount according to the amount of fat measured using an ultrasonic sensor or a bioimpedance meter. For example, the frequency of the waveform is increased when the fat amount exceeds a predetermined value. In particular, the interference wave type electrical muscular stimulation device 10 enables waveform adjustment so as to reach a target site. As described above, more effective electrical stimulation can be provided to the user.

(5) Output adjustment In the type in which the user puts both feet (muscle electrical stimulation device 10g), when the electrical stimulation from the sole becomes strong, the ankle operates by electrical stimulation. Oscillate as follows. FIG. 7 is a side view showing a usage state of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10g. When using the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g, the user places both feet on each of the pair of

footrests

92L and 92R of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g in the sitting position. The sitting position refers to a posture in which both legs FL and FR are lowered while sitting on a chair or the floor or sitting on the floor. A stimulation current for applying electrical stimulation flows through both the legs through the pair of electrode portions. This stimulation current uses the user's left leg, right leg, and muscle electrical stimulation device 10g as the energization path. When a stimulation current flows in both legs, electrical stimulation is applied to muscles such as the front shin, calf, and soles, and the movement accompanied by contraction and relaxation is promoted. In other words, exercise of the knee and leg muscles is encouraged. When the knee or leg muscles contract by electrical stimulation, the legs FL and FR move in the direction Pa1 so that the ankle joint is bent. On the other hand, when the muscle in the contracted state relaxes due to the release of the electrical stimulation, the legs FL and FR move in the direction Pa2 so that the ankle joint extends. By repeatedly performing electrical stimulation on the knee and leg muscles, the user's legs FL and FR are urged to swing back and forth in these directions Pa1 and Pa2. The main body 16 of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10g is provided so as to be able to swing back and forth with vertical movements of both front and rear ends while a part thereof is grounded. As a result, when the legs FL and FR are urged by electrical stimulation while the legs FL and FR are placed on the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus 10g, the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus 10g is oscillated following the oscillation. It is done. Accordingly, even when the legs FL and FR swing, the state where the legs FL and FR are in contact with the electrode portions of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g can be maintained, and electrical stimulation can be continuously applied by the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g. . As a result, it is possible to continuously promote the swinging motion of the legs FL and FR by the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g, and to obtain a training effect for training the muscle by electrical stimulation.

However, in the case of a user who is not accustomed to using the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g, it is conceivable that there is a user who does not increase the voltage value properly until the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g swings, asking for an increase in the voltage value. Accordingly, a pressure sensor or an acceleration sensor is provided in the muscular electrical stimulation device 10g to detect the swing of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10g. If it is determined that the swing is insufficient, such as when the detected value indicating the swing of the electrical stimulation device 10g is below a predetermined value, the user may be notified that the voltage value is insufficient or that the voltage value is increased to an appropriate voltage value. Alternatively, control for automatically increasing to an appropriate voltage value may be executed.

The present invention has been described based on the embodiment. This embodiment is an exemplification, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to combinations of the respective constituent elements and processing processes, and such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. is there. A modification is shown below.

In the above-described embodiment, the example in which the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 that exercises the muscle using the reflex motion by electrical stimulation has been described as the exercise equipment. In a modification, you may apply to the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus 10 for the hybrid training which adds the reflex movement by electrical stimulation to voluntary movement.

In the above embodiment, the specification has been described in which the exercise equipment control device 12 is connected to the information management server 14 and the result of exercise for each user and information on user registration are transmitted to the information management server 14 for management. In a modification, you may comprise an exercise equipment control system only with the some muscular electrical stimulation apparatus 10 and the exercise equipment control apparatus 12, without using the information management server 14. FIG. By providing the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 with the display function, control function, and communication function of the exercise equipment control device 12, the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 and the exercise equipment control device 12 may be integrally configured as one device. . In this case, the user does not need to have the exercise equipment control device 12 separately, and the communication unit 58 of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 communicates directly with the information management server 14 as shown in FIG. In addition, since it is possible to directly communicate between the plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices 10, it becomes easier to synchronize the operations of the muscle electrical stimulation devices 10.

In the above embodiment, the specification in which the exercise time and the like for applying the voltage are defined as the exercise program has been described. In the modified example, not only the exercise time but also the body part to be used, the exercise frequency and schedule, the setting intensity, etc. can be optimized in accordance with the exercise purpose, user attributes, exercise history, etc. The specification may be sufficient. In that case, you may implement the notification which prompts exercise execution according to an appropriate schedule. Moreover, the specification which implements automatic adjustments, such as raising intensity | strength gradually based on a log | history, or reducing intensity | strength according to a fatigue degree, may be sufficient.

As described above, the first base material 26 and the second base material 27 are composed of thin sheet-like members and are formed in a shape suitable for the body part to be worn, but the base material is a thin sheet. It is not limited to the shape. For example, a base material suitable for attachment to the fitness wear 102 is used for the electrical stimulation module attached to the fitness wear 102. The base material may be formed in a rectangular shape such as a substantially rectangular shape on which each component of the electrical stimulation module is placed, or may be formed of a fiber material having shape stability and light weight. For example, a base material of a material or shape suitable for footrest may be used for the muscle electrical stimulation device 10g.

In a modified example, the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 may be lent to a user for a fee, and the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 may be operated only while the price is paid. For example, the setting unit 56 only when the communication unit 58 or the communication unit 71 inquires of the information management server 14 whether or not the user has paid, and receives information from the information management server 14 that there is a payment and a right to use the information. May perform control to validate the operation of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10.

In a modified example, the avatar displayed as the user's incarnation in the virtual reality space may be displayed on the screen of the display unit 72 by the display control unit 65 of the exercise equipment control device 12 as shown in FIG. FIG. 8 shows an example of a screen on which an avatar is displayed. The avatar 110 whose muscle size can be changed according to the usage history is displayed on the screen. The display mode of the avatar 110 may be changed based on the usage history of the user's electrical muscle stimulation device 10. For example, a change in which the muscle of the avatar 110 grows before and after using the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 may be displayed. Further, for example, muscle growth may be simulated and displayed on the screen according to the use history such as the use frequency, use frequency, use time, and use voltage value of the electrical muscle stimulation device 10. In that case, the user can use the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 as if he / she enjoys a game for growing the avatar 110.

Arbitrary combinations of the above-described embodiments and modifications are also useful as embodiments of the present invention. The new embodiment generated by the combination has the effects of the combined embodiment and the modified examples.

10 muscle electrical stimulation device, 12 exercise equipment control device, 28 control unit, 40 sensor, 60 communication processing unit, 63 setting processing unit, 64 device control unit, 65 display control unit, 66 information management unit, 70 control unit, 80 control Department, 85 communication processing department, 86 information management department.

The present invention relates to a muscular electrical stimulation device.

Claims

A muscle electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to muscles,
A sensor that detects information about the user's body;
A control unit for controlling the voltage applied between the electrodes and processing information detected by the sensor;
A muscular electrical stimulation device comprising:
The sensor detects information for estimating the muscle mass of each of a plurality of body parts to which electrical stimulation is applied,
2. The electrical muscular stimulation according to claim 1, wherein the control unit estimates muscle balance of the plurality of body parts based on the detected information and controls the voltage according to the muscle balance. apparatus.