WO2020183928A1 - Device for applying electrical stimulation and method for applying electrical stimulation - Google Patents

Abstract

This device for applying electrical stimulation applies weak electrical stimulation to a living body or to living tissue and is provided with an input unit for receiving operation input from a user and a control unit for controlling output of the electrical stimulation. The control unit is capable of changing the output intensity of the electrical stimulation. The electrical stimulation is applied to the living body or living tissue at a predetermined output intensity lower than the output intensity of the electrical stimulation to be output when first operation input to the input unit is detected, and the electrical stimulation is applied to the living body or living tissue at a notification intensity higher than the output intensity of the electrical stimulation to be output when second operation input to the input unit is detected at a predetermined timing.

Description

Electrical stimulation application device and electrical stimulation application method

The present disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation application device and an electrical stimulation application method.

Conventionally, there are known devices that treat various diseases by applying a weak electrical stimulus at a level that does not cause depolarization and heat to a living body or a living body tissue. For example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2, by applying a weak current as an electrical stimulus and heat to a living body or a living body tissue, a neurodegenerative disease, a cancer disease, xeroderma pigmentosum, and systemic A device for treating diseases such as autoimmune diseases and organ-specific autoimmune diseases is disclosed.

International Publication No. 2017/065239 JP-A-2009-125549

The above-mentioned device is used by being attached to, for example, a living body during treatment. Specifically, the device executes a treatment process, for example, in a state of being attached to the abdomen corresponding to a part of a user who is a living body. The user is wearing, for example, clothing while being treated with the device, in which case the device attached to the abdomen is covered with clothing. Therefore, for example, the user may not notice even if the device outputs a sound by a buzzer or emits a light by an LED (light emitting diode: Light Emitting Diode) in order to notify the user of information. ..

An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electrical stimulus application device and an electrical stimulus application method capable of more reliably notifying a user of information regarding a device that applies weak electrical stimulation and heat to a living body or a living tissue.

The electric stimulus applying device as the first aspect of the present disclosure is an electric stimulus applying device that applies a weak electric stimulus to a living body or a living tissue, and has an input unit that receives an operation input from a user and the electric stimulus. The control unit includes a control unit that controls the output, and the control unit can change the output intensity of the electrical stimulation, and the output of the electrical stimulation that is output when the first operation input to the input unit is detected. The electrical stimulus that is output when the electrical stimulus is applied to the living body or tissue at a predetermined output intensity lower than the intensity and a second operation input to the input unit is detected at a predetermined timing. The electrical stimulus is applied to the living body or the living body tissue with a notification intensity higher than the output intensity of.

In the electric stimulus application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the control unit outputs the electric stimulus while gradually increasing the output intensity of the electric stimulus and gradually increases the output intensity of the electric stimulus. A predetermined output intensity higher than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the second operation input is detected is set as the notification intensity.

The electrical stimulation application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes a heater for heating the living body or the living tissue, and the control unit detects the second operation input to the input unit, and then the second operation input is detected. The living body or living tissue is heated by a heater, and when the heater reaches a predetermined temperature or higher, the electrical stimulation is applied to the living body or living tissue at the predetermined output intensity.

In the electrical stimulation application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit has a coefficient of 1 or more with respect to the output intensity of the electrical stimulation output when the second operation input to the input unit is detected. The output intensity multiplied by a large coefficient is set as the notification intensity.

In the electric stimulus application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the control unit outputs the electric stimulus while gradually reducing the output intensity of the electric stimulus and gradually reduces the output intensity of the electric stimulus. The electrical stimulus is applied to the living body or tissue at a predetermined output intensity lower than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the first operation input to the input unit is detected.

In the electrical stimulation application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, the predetermined output intensity is relative to the output intensity of the electrical stimulation output when the first operation input to the input unit is detected. The output intensity multiplied by a coefficient less than 1.

In the electric stimulus application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the control unit detects a second operation input to the input unit while gradually increasing the output intensity of the electric stimulus, the electric stimulus is said to be electric. The electrical stimulus is applied while gradually decreasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus from the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the second operation input to the input unit is detected while the output intensity of the stimulus is gradually increased. Output.

In the electrical stimulation application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, the predetermined timing is the continuous electrical stimulation by the predetermined output intensity before the application of the continuous electrical stimulation by the predetermined output intensity. It includes at least one of the following after the application is performed and when an abnormality occurs in the electrical stimulation application device.

In the electrical stimulation application device as one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control unit changes the output pattern of the electrical stimulation applied to the living body or the biological tissue at the predetermined timing according to the type of notification.

The method of applying an electrical stimulus as a second aspect of the present disclosure is a method of applying an electrical stimulus by an electrical stimulus applying device, which is provided with an input unit that receives an operation input from a user and can output a weak electrical stimulus. A predetermined step of outputting the electrical stimulus while changing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus and a predetermined output intensity of the electrical stimulus lower than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the first operation input is input to the input unit. A step of applying the electrical stimulus to a living body or a biological tissue at an output intensity, and a step of applying the electrical stimulus to the living body or a biological tissue at a predetermined timing with a notification intensity stronger than the predetermined output intensity. including.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an electrical stimulus application device and an electrical stimulus application method capable of more reliably notifying a user of information regarding a device that applies weak electrical stimulation and heat to a living body or a living tissue.

It is a schematic external perspective view of the electric stimulus application device which concerns on one Embodiment. It is an external perspective view of the electric stimulation application device of FIG. 1 when viewed from the back surface side. It is an external perspective view which shows the schematic structure of the sheet material used when attaching an electric stimulus application device to a living body or the like. It is a functional block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the electric stimulus application device of FIG. It is a control chart which shows typically an example of the control of the output of electrical stimulation and heat by the control unit of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which the control part of FIG. 4 executes in a setting stage. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process which the control part of FIG. 4 executes in a treatment stage. It is a figure for demonstrating the relationship of predetermined time T ₁ , T ₂ and T ₃ . It is a figure for demonstrating the output pattern of the electrical stimulus output as a notification.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the electrical stimulation application device according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The common members in each figure are designated by the same reference numerals.

FIG. 1 is a schematic external perspective view of the electrical stimulus applying device 1 according to the embodiment. The electrical stimulus application device 1 applies a weak electrical stimulus to a living body or a living tissue (hereinafter, also simply referred to as “living body or the like”). The disease is treated by applying a weak electrical stimulus.

Weak electrical stimulation is a level of electrical stimulation that does not cause depolarization of the living body. Since a level of electrical stimulation that does not induce depolarization does not cause muscle contraction or a feeling of stimulation to the living body, the user (patient) cannot sense the electrical stimulation to be applied. The electrical stimulation is applied to a living body or the like as, for example, a pulsed direct current. The pulsed direct current is applied at a frequency of, for example, 55 Hz. The pulse width of the pulsed direct current is, for example, 100 μsec. However, the electrical stimulation is not limited to this, and an appropriate electrical stimulation effective in treating a disease may be used. For example, the frequency of the pulsed direct current may be other than 55 Hz, and the pulse width of the pulsed direct current may be other than 100 μsec.

The electrical stimulus application device 1 further heats the living body and the like. That is, the electrical stimulation application device 1 applies heat to a living body or the like. Therefore, the electric stimulus application device 1 can apply the electric stimulus and the heat to a living body or the like in combination. In this case, the disease is treated by applying a weak electric stimulus and heat.

The heat is several degrees higher than the normal temperature of the living body. For example, when the electrical stimulation application device 1 is applied to the human body, the heat may be a temperature of 38 ° C. or higher and 45 ° C. or lower, which is several degrees higher than the normal body temperature of the human body.

The treatment by the electric stimulus applying device 1 is performed in a state where the electric stimulating applying device 1 is attached to at least a part of a living body or the like. For example, the electrical stimulation application device 1 is attached to a living body or the like via a sticky sheet material. In a state where the electric stimulus applying device 1 is attached to a living body or the like, for example, a user (patient) of the electric stimulus applying device 1 can start treatment with the electric stimulus applying device 1 for the electric stimulus applying device 1. When a predetermined operation input is performed, treatment is performed by applying electrical stimulation and heat.

Here, the electrical stimulation application device 1 according to the present embodiment sets the intensity of the weak electrical stimulation applied to the living body or the like before starting the actual treatment. Further, the electric stimulus applying device 1 sets the output intensity of the electric stimulus applied to the living body or the like at a predetermined timing before starting the actual treatment. The output intensity of the electrical stimulus applied to the living body or the like by the electrical stimulus applying device 1 at a predetermined timing is hereinafter also referred to as “notification intensity” in the present specification. The notification intensity is the output intensity that can be perceived by the user.

In the present specification, the step of setting the output intensity of electrical stimulation, which is performed before starting the treatment, is also simply referred to as "setting step" below. Further, in the present specification, the stage of actually performing treatment is also simply referred to as "therapeutic stage" below. Therefore, when the user of the electric stimulus applying device 1 performs a predetermined operation input for starting the treatment by the electric stimulus applying device 1 to the electric stimulus applying device 1, the electric stimulus applying device 1 sets the setting stage. By performing, the intensity of electrical stimulation at the treatment stage is set, and then by performing the treatment stage, the user is treated.

As shown in FIG. 1, the electrical stimulation application device 1 is configured by combining the main body portion 10 and the application portion 20. The main body 10 is configured as a housing. The application unit 20 is formed in a flat plate shape. The main body portion 10 is coupled to the application portion 20 on one surface of the flat plate-shaped application portion 20. In the present specification, in the flat plate-shaped application portion 20, the surface to which the main body portion 10 is bonded is referred to as a surface. Further, in the flat plate-shaped application portion 20, the surface opposite to the front surface to which the main body portion 10 is not bonded is referred to as a back surface.

The main body 10 configured as a housing has various functional parts inside for controlling the operation of the electrical stimulus applying device 1. Further, the main body unit 10 is provided with an input unit that receives an operation input from the user. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the main body unit 10 includes a first input unit 101a, a second input unit 101b, and a third input unit 101c as input units.

The first input unit 101a, the second input unit 101b, and the third input unit 101c may all be configured as operation buttons (operation keys) that can be pressed, as shown in FIG. 1, for example. However, the form of the first input unit 101a, the second input unit 101b, and the third input unit 101c is not limited to the operation buttons that can be pressed. Further, the number of input units included in the main body unit 10 is not limited to three. Further, the arrangement of the first input unit 101a, the second input unit 101b, and the third input unit 101c is not limited to the arrangement shown in FIG.

In the present embodiment, the first input unit 101a, the second input unit 101b, and the third input unit 101c are operation buttons that execute different functions. Specifically, the first input unit 101a is an operation button for switching the power on / off of the electric stimulus applying device 1. The second input unit 101b is an operation button for starting the treatment by the electrical stimulation application device 1. The third input unit 101c is an operation button for the user to input whether or not the electric stimulus is detected. The sensing of electrical stimulation will be described later.

The back surface of the application unit 20 is attached to a living body or the like via a sticky sheet material. The application unit 20 includes an electrode unit that outputs an electrical stimulus and a heater that generates heat. The application unit 20 applies electrical stimulation and heat to the living body or the like with the back surface attached to the living body or the like.

FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the electrical stimulation application device 1 of FIG. 1 when viewed from the back surface side. As shown in FIG. 2, the application unit 20 includes two electrodes, a first electrode 102a and a second electrode 102b, as an electrode unit. The first electrode 102a and the second electrode 102b are exposed to the outside on the back surface side. The electrode unit outputs an electrical stimulus by, for example, grounding one of the first electrode 102a and the second electrode 102b and changing the voltage of the other electrode.

The application unit 20 is provided with a heater inside. That is, the application unit 20 includes a heater between the front surface and the back surface. By heating the heater, the heat is transmitted to the living body or the like with the back surface attached to the living body or the like, and the living body or the like is warmed.

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a sheet material 30 used when the electrical stimulus applying device 1 is attached to a living body or the like. The sheet material 30 includes a frame portion 31 and two conductive gels 32.

The frame portion 31 is made of a non-conductive material such as resin. The outer shape of the frame portion 31 is formed to be substantially the same size as the outer shape of the application portion 20. The frame portion 31 has two openings (through holes) for arranging the two conductive gels 32. The two openings are formed at positions corresponding to the positions where the first electrode 102a and the second electrode 102b are arranged when the sheet material 30 is attached to the back surface side of the application portion 20.

The two conductive gels 32 are arranged in the two openings of the frame portion 31. The space between the two conductive gels 32 is insulated by a non-conductive frame portion 31. Since the conductive gel 32 has adhesiveness, the electrical stimulus applying device 1 can be attached to a living body or the like. In a state where the sheet material 30 is attached to the back surface side of the application portion 20, the two conductive gels 32 are in one-to-one contact with the first electrode 102a and the second electrode 102b, respectively. As a result, when the electric stimulus applying device 1 is attached to the living body or the like by the sheet material 30, and the electric stimulus is output from the electrode portion, the electric stimulus is applied to the living body or the like via the two conductive gels 32. It is applied.

The user replaces and uses the sheet material 30 on a regular or irregular basis. That is, the user regularly or irregularly uses the new sheet material 30 to attach the electrical stimulus application device 1 to a living body or the like. As a result, it is possible to prevent the properties of the conductive gel 32 of the sheet material 30 from changing and the conductivity from deteriorating. Further, by using the new sheet material 30, it is possible to prevent the electrical stimulation application device 1 from being peeled off from the living body or the like due to deterioration of the adhesiveness.

In the present embodiment, as described above, two electrodes, the first electrode 102a and the second electrode 102b, are arranged in one constituent device called the application unit 20. However, the first electrode 102a and the second electrode 102b may be arranged separately in different constituent devices, for example. When two electrodes are arranged in one constituent device as in the present embodiment, the two electrodes are attached to a living body or the like as compared with the case where the two electrodes are arranged separately in different constituent devices. Since the number of constituent devices to be used can be reduced, the convenience of the user is improved.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the electrical stimulation application device 1 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the electrical stimulation application device 1 includes an input unit 101, an electrode unit 102, a control unit 103, a display unit 104, a timer unit 105, a storage unit 106, a power supply unit 107, and a heater. It includes 108, a temperature measuring unit 109, and an electrical stimulation output unit 110. The input unit 101, the control unit 103, the display unit 104, the timer unit 105, the storage unit 106, the power supply unit 107, and the electrical stimulation output unit 110 are provided in, for example, the main body unit 10. The electrode unit 102, the heater 108, and the temperature measuring unit 109 are provided in, for example, the applying unit 20. However, whether each functional unit is provided in the main body unit 10 or the application unit 20 is not limited to the example shown here as long as the functions described in the present specification are exhibited.

The input unit 101 receives an operation input from the user, and is composed of, for example, operation buttons. In the present embodiment, as described above, the input unit 101 is composed of three operation buttons, a first input unit 101a, a second input unit 101b, and a third input unit 101c. The input unit 101 may be configured by, for example, a touch screen, display an input area for receiving an operation input from the user on a part of the display device, and may accept the touch operation input by the user. When an operation input is made to the input unit 101 by the user, for example, an electric signal corresponding to the operation input is transmitted to the control unit 103.

The electrode unit 102 outputs an electrical stimulus based on the signal received from the electrical stimulus output unit 110. As described above, the electrode portion 102 is composed of two electrodes, a first electrode 102a and a second electrode 102b, for example.

The control unit 103 controls and manages the entire electrical stimulus application device 1, including each functional unit of the electrical stimulus application device 1. The control unit 103 includes at least one processor. The control unit 103 is composed of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes a program that defines a control procedure, or a dedicated processor that specializes in processing each function.

The control unit 103 controls the output of electrical stimulation from the electrode unit 102. The control unit 103 can change the output intensity of the electrical stimulation. The control unit 103 can change the output intensity of the electrical stimulus by, for example, changing the magnitude of the pulsed direct current. The control unit 103 controls the processing of the treatment executed by the electrical stimulation application device 1. Specifically, the control unit 103 controls the setting of the output intensity of the weak electric stimulus in the setting stage and the treatment in the treatment stage by controlling each functional unit of the electric stimulus applying device 1. In addition, the control unit 103 notifies the user at a predetermined timing by applying an electrical stimulus having a notification intensity set in the setting stage to the living body or the like. The details of the process executed by the control unit 103 will be described later.

The display unit 104 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or an inorganic EL display. The display unit 104 displays various information based on the control by the control unit 103. The display unit 104 may display, for example, the stage of processing executed by the electrical stimulation application device 1, that is, the setting stage or the treatment stage. In addition, the display unit 104 may display, for example, the progress of treatment. The degree of progression of treatment is the degree of progression at the stage of treatment. Specifically, the progress of treatment may be information indicating, for example, when the time of the treatment stage is set, how much of the time is completed. For example, when the control unit 103 detects an operation input to the input unit 101 by the user, the display unit 104 may display the content of the detected operation input. The display unit 104 may display any other information to be notified to the user in relation to the treatment. Note that in FIG. 1, the display unit 104 is not shown.

The electrical stimulus application device 1 does not necessarily have to include the display unit 104. The electrical stimulation application device 1 may include another mechanism for notifying the user of information in place of the display unit 104 or together with the display unit 104. For example, the electrical stimulation application device 1 may include a speaker that notifies the user of information by sound. For example, the electrical stimulation application device 1 may include an oscillator that notifies the user of information by vibration. In the present disclosure, as will be described later, information can be notified by the output of the electric stimulus by the electric stimulus applying device 1, so that the electric stimulus applying device 1 does not necessarily notify the display unit and other information. It is not necessary to have a functional unit to perform the function.

The timer unit 105 measures the time based on the control of the control unit 103. For example, the timer unit 105 measures the elapsed time from the start of the treatment stage. Further, for example, the timer unit 105 measures the elapsed time after applying the electrical stimulation of the pulsed direct current.

The storage unit 106 can be composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic memory, or the like. The storage unit 106 stores, for example, various information and a program for operating the electrical stimulation application device 1. The storage unit 106 may also function as a work memory.

The power supply unit 107 is a battery that supplies electric power to each functional unit of the electrical stimulation application device 1.

Heater 108 applies heat. The heater 108 is composed of a member that generates heat by supplying electric power, such as a heating wire. The heater 108 generates heat by receiving electric power from, for example, the power supply unit 107. When the heater 108 generates heat, the heat is transmitted to the living body or the like to which the electric stimulus applying device 1 is attached.

The temperature measuring unit 109 measures the temperature of the heater 108. The temperature measuring unit 109 is configured to include a sensor capable of detecting the temperature, such as a thermometer. The temperature measuring unit 109 transmits information regarding the measured temperature to the control unit 103 by transmitting an electric signal corresponding to the measured temperature to the control unit 103.

The electrical stimulation output unit 110 outputs an electrical stimulation from the electrode unit 102 based on the control of the control unit 103.

Next, the details of the control by the control unit 103 of the electric stimulus applying device 1 will be described together with the usage method of the electric stimulating applying device 1. Here, the electrical stimulation application device 1 will be described as being used by being attached to the abdomen of a user who is a living body. That is, here, it is described that the treatment is performed in the abdomen of the user.

When using the electrical stimulation application device 1, the user attaches the electrical stimulation application device 1 to the abdomen using the sheet material 30. Then, the user turns on the power of the electric stimulus applying device 1 by, for example, pressing the first input unit 101a. The user can start the treatment by the electric stimulus applying device 1 by pressing the second input unit 101b. That is, the electrical stimulation application device 1 starts the treatment performed by the setting stage and the treatment stage.

FIG. 5 is a control chart schematically showing an example of control of the output of electrical stimulation and heat by the control unit 103 of FIG. FIG. 5 shows a chart of the output of the electrical stimulation and a chart of switching the heater 108 on and off. In the chart of FIG. 5, the horizontal axis represents time. In FIG. 5, the vertical axis of the electrical stimulation output chart indicates the electrical stimulation output intensity. In FIG. 5, the vertical axis of the chart for switching the heater 108 on and off indicates the on and off states of the heater 108.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit 103 of FIG. 4 at the setting stage. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit 103 of FIG. 4 in the treatment stage.

Here, the details of the processing executed by the control unit 103 in the setting stage will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. The time t _{1 in} FIG. 5 is the start time of the setting stage. Further, it is assumed that the heater 108 is in the off state at the start of the setting stage.

At the setting stage, the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus from the electrode unit 102 so as to gradually increase the output intensity of the electrical stimulus. Specifically, the control unit 103 first outputs an electrical stimulus (step S10). At this time, the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus at the lowest output intensity P ₁ in the process of gradually increasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus. The output intensity P ₁ is preferably a weak electrical stimulus at a level that does not cause depolarization for almost all users. That is, the output intensity P ₁ is preferably a weak electrical stimulus at a level at which almost all users do not perceive the electrical stimulus. The output intensity P ₁ may be preset in the electrical stimulation application device 1. As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 may output the pulsed direct current of the electrical stimulation of the output intensity P ₁ a plurality of times in a predetermined cycle.

When the setting stage is started, the user presses the third input unit 101c when the electrical stimulus is detected. That is, the pressing operation input that is first performed on the third input unit 101c after the setting stage starts is input when the electrical stimulation is sensed. In the present specification, the operation input performed when the electric stimulus is sensed is also referred to as "sensing input" below. The sensory input corresponds to the second operation input in the present disclosure.

The control unit 103 determines whether or not the sensory input is detected by the user when the output of the electrical stimulus in step S10 is executed (step S11). That is, the control unit 103 determines whether or not the third input unit 101c is pressed by the user when the output of the electrical stimulation in step S10 is executed.

When the control unit 103 does not detect the sensing input (No in step S11), the control unit 103 increases the output intensity of the electrical stimulation (step S12). Then, the process proceeds to step S10, and the electrical stimulus is output again with the output intensity increased in step S12 (step S10). In step S12, the control unit 103 may increase the output intensity of the electrical stimulation by, for example, a predetermined intensity range set in advance. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus at the output intensity P ₁ , and when the sensing input is not detected, then outputs the electrical stimulus at the output intensity P ₂ . Further, the control unit 103 may start the output of the electric stimulus in the step S10 with the intensity of the electric stimulus increased in the step S12 after a predetermined time after starting the output of the electric stimulus in the step S10. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 starts the output of the electrical stimulation of the output intensity P ₁ in step S10 at the time t ₁ , and then the electrical stimulation of the output intensity P ₂ at the time t ₂ after a predetermined time. Is starting to output.

The control unit 103 repeats the increase in the intensity of the electrical stimulus in step S12 and the output of the electrical stimulus in step S10 until it is determined in step S11 that the sensing input has been detected. By repeating this, the control unit 103 can gradually increase the output intensity of the electrical stimulation. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 increases the output intensity of the electrical stimulation in the order of P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ , and P ₇ to output. The times t ₁ , t ₂ , t ₃ , t ₄ , t ₅ , t ₆ and t ₇ in FIG. 5 are the output intensities P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ and P ₇ , respectively. Indicates the time when the output of the electrical stimulus was started. In the process of gradually increasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus, the length of time for outputting the pulsed DC current of the electrical stimulus at each output intensity may be constant. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the length of time for outputting a pulse direct current electrical stimulation at each output intensity, in either case the output intensity may be T _A.

When the control unit 103 detects a predetermined operation input to the input unit 101, the control unit 103 sets the notification intensity of the electrical stimulation. In the present embodiment, the control unit 103 sets the notification intensity when the sensing input to the third input unit 101c is detected.

Specifically, when the control unit 103 detects the sensing input (Yes in step S11), the control unit 103 stores the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the sensing input is detected in the storage unit 106 (step S13). Here, in the present specification, the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the sensing input is detected is referred to as the first reference output intensity P _up . FIG. 5 shows an example in which a sensing input is detected while outputting an electrical stimulus with an output intensity P ₇ . In this example, the first reference output intensity P _up = P ₇ is established.

The control unit 103 sets the notification intensity based on the first reference output intensity P _up (step S14). In step S14, the control unit 103 sets a predetermined output intensity higher than the first reference output intensity P _up as the notification intensity.

The method of setting the notification intensity may be appropriately determined. For example, the control unit 103 may set an output intensity higher than the first reference output intensity P _up by a predetermined intensity as the notification intensity. Further, for example, the control unit 103 may set the output intensity obtained by multiplying the first reference output intensity P _up by a coefficient larger than 1 as the notification intensity. Here, the control unit 103 will be described below assuming that the output intensity obtained by multiplying the first reference output intensity P _up by 1.2 as a coefficient is set as the notification intensity Pa. That is, in the example described here, the notification intensity Pa = 1.2 × the first reference output intensity P _up is established.

Note that the notification intensity setting in step S14 does not necessarily have to be executed before step S15. The setting of the notification intensity in step S14 may be completed by the end of the setting step, that is, by the end of the flow of FIG.

Next, the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus from the electrode unit 102 so as to gradually reduce the output intensity of the electrical stimulus at the setting stage. Specifically, the control unit 103 first outputs an electrical stimulus (step S15). At this time, from the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the control unit 103 detects the sensing input to the input unit 101 while gradually increasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus, that is, from the first reference output intensity P _up . The electrical stimulus may be output while gradually reducing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus. That is, in the case of the example shown in FIG. 5, when starting the gradual decrease of the output intensity of the electrical stimulus, the control unit 103 may first output the electrical stimulus with the first reference output intensity P _up = P ₇ . By doing so, in the process of gradually reducing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus, an excessively strong electrical stimulus is not applied to the living body or the like.

As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 may output the pulsed direct current of the electrical stimulation of the output intensity P ₇ a plurality of times in a predetermined cycle. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the processing of outputting so as to gradually decrease the output intensity of the electrical stimulus at time t ₈ is started.

After inputting the sensing input, the user presses the third input unit 101c again when the electrical stimulation is no longer sensed. That is, the pressing operation input performed on the third input unit 101c for the second time after the setting stage starts is input when the detection of the electrical stimulus is lost. In the present specification, the operation input performed when the detection of the electrical stimulus is lost is also referred to as "non-sensing input" below. The non-sensing input corresponds to the first operation input in the present disclosure.

The control unit 103 determines whether or not a non-sensing input is detected by the user when the output of the electrical stimulation in step S15 is executed (step S16). That is, the control unit 103 determines whether or not the third input unit 101c is pressed by the user when the output of the electrical stimulation in step S15 is executed.

When the control unit 103 does not detect the non-sensing input (No in step S16), the control unit 103 lowers the output intensity of the electrical stimulation (step S17). Then, the process proceeds to step S15, and the electrical stimulus is output again with the output intensity lowered in step S17 (step S15). In step S17, the control unit 103 may reduce the output intensity of the electrical stimulation by, for example, a predetermined intensity range.

Here, the gradient when the control unit 103 gradually reduces the output intensity of the electrical stimulation from step S15 to step S17 is compared with the gradient when the control unit 103 gradually increases the output intensity of the electrical stimulation from step S10 to step S12. It may be gentle. Specifically, for example, the control unit 103 may make the decrease in the output intensity of the electrical stimulus in step S17 smaller than the increase in the output intensity of the electrical stimulus in step S12. Alternatively, for example, the control unit 103 takes the time to output the pulsed direct current in step S15 until the output intensity of the electrical stimulus is lowered in step S17, and the pulsed direct current in step S10 until the output intensity of the electrical stimulus is increased in step S12. It may be longer than the time to output the current. When it is more difficult for the user to judge the transition from the state in which the electrical stimulus is sensed to the state in which the electrical stimulus is not sensed than the judgment of the transition from the state in which the electric stimulus is not sensed to the state in which the electric stimulus is sensed There is. In such a case, by gradually reducing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus as described above, it is possible to secure a longer time for the user to judge the transition to the unsensed state. it can.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 reduces the output intensity of the electrical stimulation in step S17 by the same width as when the output intensity of the electrical stimulation is increased in step S12. That is, in the example shown in FIG. 5, in the process of outputting the electrical stimulus while gradually reducing the output intensity, the control unit 103 changes from the electrical stimulus of the output intensity P ₇ to the output intensities P ₆ , P ₅ , and P ₄ . , Lower the output strength. At this time, the length of time for outputting the pulsed DC current of the electric stimulus at each output intensity is the time for outputting the pulsed DC current of the electric stimulus at each output intensity when the output intensity of the electric stimulus is gradually increased. longer than the length T _a. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, in the process of gradually decreasing the output intensity of the electric stimulation, the length of time to output a pulse direct current electrical stimulation at each output intensity, in either case the output intensity, T _B It may be. Here, T _B> T _A is satisfied.

The control unit 103 repeats the decrease in the intensity of the electrical stimulus in step S17 and the output of the electrical stimulus in step S15 until it is determined in step S16 that the non-sensing input has been detected. By repeating this, the control unit 103 can gradually reduce the output intensity of the electrical stimulation. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 outputs the output intensity of the electrical stimulation by decreasing it in the order of P ₇ , P ₆ , P ₅ , and P ₄ . At times t ₈ , t ₉ , t ₁₀ and t ₁₁ in FIG. 5, the output of the electrical stimuli of the output intensities P ₇ , P ₆ , P ₅ and P ₄ is started in the process of gradually reducing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus. Indicates the time of day.

When the control unit 103 detects a non-sensing input to the input unit 101, the control unit 103 sets the output intensity of the electrical stimulus used in the treatment process in the treatment stage. The output intensity of the electrical stimulus used in the treatment process at the therapeutic stage is also hereinafter referred to as "therapeutic intensity" in the present specification. In this embodiment, the control unit 103 sets the treatment intensity when it detects a non-sensing input.

Specifically, when the control unit 103 detects the non-sensing input (Yes in step S16), the control unit 103 stores the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the non-sensing input is detected in the storage unit 106 (step S18). ). Here, in the present specification, the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when a non-sensing input is detected is referred to as a second reference output intensity P _down . Figure 5 is a non-sensitive input indicates an example of a case where it is detected when the output of the electrical stimulation in output intensity P _4. In this example, the second reference output intensity P _down = P ₄ is established.

The control unit 103 sets the treatment intensity based on the second reference output intensity P _down (step S19). In step S19, the control unit 103 sets a predetermined output intensity lower than the second reference output intensity P _down as the therapeutic intensity.

The method for setting the treatment intensity may be appropriately determined. For example, the control unit 103 may set an output intensity lower than the second reference output intensity P _down by a predetermined intensity as the therapeutic intensity. Further, for example, the control unit 103 may set the output intensity obtained by multiplying the second reference output intensity P _down by a coefficient less than 1 as the therapeutic intensity. Here, the control unit 103 will be described below assuming that the output intensity obtained by multiplying the second reference output intensity P _down by 0.8 as a coefficient is set as the therapeutic intensity Pm. That is, in the example described here, the therapeutic intensity Pm = 0.8 × the second reference output intensity P _down is established.

It should be noted that the setting of the treatment intensity in step S19 does not necessarily have to be executed before step S20. The setting of the treatment intensity in step S19 may be completed by the end of the setting step, that is, by the end of the flow of FIG.

After detecting a predetermined operation input (non-sensing input in this example) to the input unit 101, the control unit 103 heats the living body or the like with the heater 108, and when the heater 108 reaches a predetermined temperature or higher. , The treatment phase may be started. Such heating by the heater 108 may be performed at the setting stage.

Specifically, the control unit 103 turns on the heater 108 when the non-sensing input is detected and the treatment intensity is set (step S20). Chart shown in Figure 5, at time t _12, indicating that the heater 108 is turned on state. As a result, electric power is supplied to the heater 108, and the heater 108 starts to generate heat. The heat generated by the heater 108 warms the abdomen of the user who is a living body.

The control unit 103 monitors the temperature of the heater 108 based on the signal transmitted from the temperature measurement unit 109. Specifically, the control unit 103 determines whether or not the temperature of the heater 108 has reached a predetermined temperature (step S21). The predetermined temperature is, for example, a temperature suitable for treatment by the electric stimulus application device 1, and may be predetermined.

When the control unit 103 determines that the temperature of the heater 108 has not reached the predetermined temperature (No in step S21), the control unit 103 repeats step S21 while keeping the heater 108 in the ON state.

When the control unit 103 determines that the temperature of the heater 108 has reached a predetermined temperature (Yes in step S21), the control unit 103 turns off the heater 108 (step S22). Chart shown in Figure 5, at time t _13, indicating that the heater 108 is turned off.

When the control unit 103 turns off the heater 108 in step S22, the setting step ends. That is, in the chart shown in FIG. 5, setting out is finished at time t _13. When the setting stage is completed, the control unit 103 then starts processing in the treatment stage.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7, details of the process executed by the control unit 103 in the treatment stage will be described. The treatment stage may be automatically started by the control unit 103, for example, when the setting stage is completed.

At the treatment stage, the control unit 103 performs treatment processing by applying an electrical stimulus to a living body or the like at a therapeutic intensity, and at a predetermined timing, notifies by outputting an electrical stimulus at a notification intensity. The control unit 103 performs the treatment process by applying a continuous electrical stimulus at the treatment intensity as a pulsed direct current.

The predetermined timing at which the control unit 103 gives a notification may be predetermined. Here, the control unit 103 will be described as notifying the start and end of the treatment process. In this case, the predetermined timing at which the control unit 103 gives the notification is before the start and after the end of the treatment process. It is preferable that the start of the treatment treatment is before the application of the continuous electrical stimulation at the treatment intensity and immediately before the application of the continuous electrical stimulation at the treatment intensity. The notice given prior to the start of the treatment process is also referred to herein as the "start notice". After the treatment is completed, it is preferable that the continuous electrical stimulation at the treatment intensity is applied for a predetermined time, and immediately after the continuous electrical stimulation at the treatment intensity is applied for a predetermined time. The predetermined time here corresponds to the predetermined time T ₄ described later. The notice given after the end of the treatment process is also referred to herein as the "end notice".

In the treatment stage, first, the control unit 103 outputs an electrical stimulus of the start notification (step S30). At this time, the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus with the notification intensity set in step S14 of the flow of FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 may output the electrical stimulation of the start notification as a pulsed direct current a plurality of times in a predetermined cycle. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103, after starting the output of the pulse direct current of the start notification of the electrical stimulation at time t _14, to the time t _15, continues to output the electrical stimulation of the start notification You may go.

Since the notification intensity is higher than the first reference output intensity P _up when the user performs the sensing input, the user to whom the electrical stimulus of the start notification is applied at the notification intensity receives the electrical stimulus of the start notification. Can be sensed. Sensing the electrical stimulus allows the user to recognize that the treatment process is initiated.

When the output of the electrical stimulus of the start notification is finished, the control unit 103 starts the treatment process. Specifically, the control unit 103 starts the treatment time timer by the timer unit 105 (step S31). The treatment time timer is a timer that measures the treatment time. The treatment time may be, for example, the elapsed time from the start of the treatment process, or the time during which the pulsed direct current output process is performed in the treatment process. However, in the present embodiment, since the output processing of the pulsed direct current is not interrupted in the treatment stage, the elapsed time from the start of the treatment processing is the time during which the output processing of the pulsed direct current is performed in the treatment processing. Is equal to.

The control unit 103 outputs a pulsed direct current as an electrical stimulus in the treatment process (step S32). At this time, the control unit 103 outputs a pulsed direct current at the treatment intensity Pm set in step S19 of the flow of FIG.

When the control unit 103 outputs the pulsed direct current in step S32, the control unit 103 starts the electrical stimulation interval timer by the timer unit 105 (step S33). The electrical stimulation interval timer is a timer for measuring an interval for outputting a pulsed direct current as an electrical stimulation. In other words, the electrical stimulation interval timer is a timer for measuring the time from the output of the pulsed direct current to the output of the next pulsed direct current.

Further, when the control unit 103 outputs the pulsed direct current in step S32, the control unit 103 starts the heater ON interval timer by the timer unit 105 (step S34). The heater ON interval timer is a timer for measuring the interval (time) from the output of the pulsed direct current as an electrical stimulus to the turning on of the heater 108.

It is preferable that the control unit 103 executes step S33 and step S34 at the same time. That is, it is preferable that the control unit 103 starts the electrical stimulation interval timer and the heater ON interval timer at the same time.

The control unit 103 determines whether or not a predetermined time T ₁ has elapsed since the heater ON interval timer was started (step S35). The predetermined time T ₁ is the time from the output of the pulsed direct current as the electrical stimulation in the treatment process to the turning on of the heater 108, and may be set in advance, for example.

When the control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time T ₁ has not elapsed since the heater ON interval timer was started (No in step S35), the predetermined time T ₁ has elapsed since the heater ON interval timer was started. Step S35 is repeated until it is determined.

When the control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time T ₁ has elapsed since the heater ON interval timer was started (Yes in step S35), the control unit 103 turns on the heater 108 (step S36).

Then, the control unit 103 turns on the heater 108, and after a predetermined time T ₂ elapses, turns the heater 108 off (step S37). Here, the on / off control of the heater 108 in step S36 and step S37 may be executed as a pulse wave. That is, in this case, the control unit 103 may turn on the heater 108 in step S36 and then turn off the heater 108 in step S37 after a predetermined time T ₂ corresponding to the pulse width has elapsed.

Next, the control unit 103 determines whether or not a predetermined time T ₃ has elapsed since the electrical stimulation interval timer was started (step S38). The predetermined time T ₃ is the time from the output of the pulsed direct current as the electrical stimulus to the output of the next pulsed direct current, and may be set in advance, for example.

Control unit 103, when it is determined from the start electrical stimulation interval timer that the predetermined time T ₃ has not elapsed (No in step S38), a predetermined time T ₃ from the start electrical stimulation interval timer has elapsed Step S38 is repeated until it is determined.

In the above flow, the predetermined time T ₃ is longer than the sum of the predetermined time T ₁ and the predetermined time T ₂ . FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between T ₁ , T _2, and T ₃ for a predetermined time, and is, for example, an enlarged view of a portion surrounded by a broken line in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, t ₂₁ is the time when the output of the pulsed DC current of the nth treatment intensity in the treatment process is started. After the output of the n-th pulse DC current, the time at which the heater 108 is turned on and t _22, the subsequent time at which the heater 108 is turned off and t _23. Further, the time at which the output of the n + 1th pulse DC current in the treatment stage is started is set to t ₂₄ . Times t ₂₁ , t ₂₂ , t ₂₃ and t ₂₄ are arranged in chronological order in this order.

At this time, the predetermined time T ₁ is represented by t ₂₂ −t ₂₁ because it is the time from the output of the pulsed direct current as the electrical stimulus to the turning on of the heater 108. Since the predetermined time T ₂ is the time from when the heater 108 is turned on to when it is turned off, it is represented by t _{23 −} t ₂₂ . Since the predetermined time T ₃ is the time from the output of the pulsed direct current as the electrical stimulus to the output of the next pulsed direct current, it is represented by t _24- t ₂₁ . Therefore, as described above, the predetermined time T ₃ is longer than the sum of the predetermined time T ₁ and the predetermined time T ₂ . The specific lengths of the predetermined times T ₁ , T ₂ and T ₃ may be appropriately determined according to the purpose, means and method of treatment.

When the control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time T ₃ has elapsed since the start of the electrical stimulation interval timer (Yes in step S38), whether or not the predetermined time T ₄ has elapsed since the start of the treatment time timer. Is determined (step S39). The predetermined time T ₄ is a treatment time, and may be set in advance, for example. The predetermined time T ₄ is, for example, one hour.

When the control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time T ₄ has not elapsed since the treatment time timer was started (No in step S39), the control unit 103 proceeds to step S32 and outputs a pulsed direct current. In this way, the control unit 103, since the start of the treatment time the timer at step S39 until it is determined that the predetermined time T ₄ has elapsed, repeats the step S39 from step S32. By repeating steps S32 to S39 in this way, a weak electrical stimulus with a therapeutic intensity of Pm is continuously applied to the user to perform treatment. Further, at this time, since the heater 108 is turned on in step S36, appropriate heat is applied, which makes it easier to maintain the temperature of the abdomen.

When the control unit 103 determines that the predetermined time T ₄ has elapsed since the treatment time timer was started (Yes in step S39), the control unit 103 ends the treatment process. When the treatment process is completed, the control unit 103 outputs an electrical stimulus for the end notification (step S40). At this time, the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus with the notification intensity set in step S14 of the flow of FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103 may output the electrical stimulation of the start notification as a pulsed direct current a plurality of times in a predetermined cycle. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the control unit 103, after starting the output of the pulse direct current electrical stimulation termination notification at time t _16, up to time t _17, continues to output the electrical stimulation of the end notification You may go. Similar to the start notification, the user can sense the electrical stimulus of the end notification. By sensing the electrical stimulus, the user can recognize that the treatment process is complete.

The user who recognizes that the treatment has been completed can peel off the electrical stimulation application device 1 from the abdomen and terminate the treatment by the electrical stimulation application device 1.

As described above, according to the electrical stimulation application device 1 according to the present embodiment, the control unit 103 outputs the second reference output intensity P _down of the electrical stimulation when the first operation input to the input unit 101 is detected. A notification higher than the first reference output intensity P _up of the electrical stimulus output when the second operation input to the input unit 101 is detected at a predetermined timing while outputting the electrical stimulus with a treatment intensity Pm lower than that. An electrical stimulus is applied to a living body or the like at an intensity Pa. In the treatment process, the electrical stimulus is applied at a treatment intensity Pm lower than the second reference output intensity P _down when the user no longer senses the electrical stimulus, so that the user actually performs the electrical stimulus in the treatment process. Does not detect whether or not is applied. On the other hand, since the notification intensity Pa is higher than the first reference output intensity P _up when the user performs the sensing input, the user to whom the electrical stimulus is applied at the notification intensity senses the electrical stimulus of the notification. can do. By sensing the electrical stimulus, the user can recognize the notification. In this way, according to the electrical stimulation application device 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to more reliably notify the user of information regarding the device that applies weak electrical stimulation and heat to a living body or the like.

For example, as described with reference to FIG. 7, when an electric stimulus is applied to a living body or the like with a notification intensity Pa before and after the start and end of the treatment process, the user does not sense the electric stimulus in the treatment process. It is difficult for the user to recognize whether or not the treatment process is being performed because the electrical stimulation is applied, whereas the electrical stimulation at the notification intensity is applied before and after the start and end of the treatment process. By applying, the user can recognize the start and end of the treatment process.

Further, as described with reference to the flow of FIG. 6, when the output intensity of the electrical stimulus is gradually increased in the setting stage, the control unit 103 inputs a sensing input when the user senses the electrical stimulus. The notification intensity Pa is set to be higher than the first reference output intensity P _up that is output when the sensing input is input. Therefore, the control unit 103 can set the notification intensity Pa to an intensity that is easy for the user to perceive.

Further, as described with reference to the flow of FIG. 6, when the output intensity of the electrical stimulus is gradually reduced in the setting stage, the control unit 103 inputs a non-sensing input when the user no longer senses the electrical stimulus. Thereby, the treatment intensity Pm is set to be weaker than the second reference output intensity P _down which is output when the non-sensing input is input. Therefore, the control unit 103 can set the treatment intensity Pm to a weak level that the user does not perceive.

Further, the electric stimulus applying device 1 according to the present embodiment heats a living body or the like by a heater 108 after detecting a predetermined operation input to the input unit 101, and when the heater 108 reaches a predetermined temperature or higher, a treatment stage. To start. As a result, the treatment can be started after the living body or the like is heated to a temperature suitable for the treatment. Depending on the purpose, means, method, etc. of the treatment, it is not necessary to heat the heater 108 before starting the treatment stage.

The process executed by the control unit 103 of the electrical stimulus applying device 1 is not limited to the above-mentioned process. The control unit 103 may execute a process different from the above-mentioned process or an additional process in addition to the above-mentioned process, depending on the purpose, means, method, and the like of the treatment.

For example, in the above embodiment, it has been explained that the control unit 103 heats the heater 108 after detecting the non-sensing input by the user in the setting stage. However, the control unit 103 may heat the heater 108 before outputting the electrical stimulation, for example, in step S10 of FIG. By heating before applying the electrical stimulus in this way, the user can input whether or not the electrical stimulus is detected in the heated state. Therefore, the presence or absence of detection of electrical stimulation is input under conditions closer to the treatment stage. Therefore, it may be easy to set the treatment intensity and the notification intensity at the treatment stage to an appropriate level.

Further, for example, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the control unit 103 executes a process of outputting an electric stimulus from the electrode unit 102 so as to gradually increase and decrease the output intensity of the electric stimulus in the setting stage. .. However, the processing in the setting stage is not limited to the gradual increase and gradual increase in the output intensity of the electrical stimulation by the control unit 103. For example, the electrical stimulus application device 1 may change the output intensity of the electrical stimulus based on the user's operation input at the setting stage.

Specifically, for example, the electrical stimulation application device 1 may further include an output intensity adjusting unit that receives an operation input from the user for changing the output intensity of the electrical stimulation. The output strength adjusting unit can be realized in various forms, and may be composed of, for example, a rotary knob (knob), a slide knob, a spin box, and the like. Instead of the process of gradually increasing and decreasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus, the control unit 103 performs a process of changing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus according to the input to the output intensity adjusting unit by the user. In this way, the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output from the electrical stimulus application device 1 can be changed at the setting stage by the operation input from the user.

Further, in the above embodiment, it has been explained that the control unit 103 of the electric stimulus applying device 1 outputs the notification by the electric stimulus as a pulsed direct current a plurality of times in a predetermined cycle. However, the notification of the electrical stimulation output by the control unit 103 is not limited to this aspect.

For example, the control unit 103 may output the electrical stimulation in a predetermined pattern. The control unit 103 can output electrical stimuli in various patterns by changing the output power. Specifically, the control unit 103 changes and outputs an electrical stimulation pattern by changing at least one of voltage, current, pulse width, frequency, stimulation time, and pause time as output power. Can be done.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an output pattern of electrical stimulation output as a notification. The control unit 103 can change the output intensity Pa as the output pattern of the electrical stimulation shown in FIG. 9 by changing the voltage and the current of the electrical stimulation. Further, the control unit 103 can change the pulse width PL and the frequency. Further, the control unit 103 can change the total length TW of applying the electrical stimulus as a notification by changing the stimulation time (output time) of the electrical stimulus. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the control unit 103 can provide a pause time TB or change the length of the pause time TB. The pause period is the period during which the pulsed direct current is not output. By providing a rest period, intermittent electrical stimulation is applied to the user. In this way, the control unit 103 can make the user sense different electrical stimuli by changing the output pattern of the electrical stimuli.

Further, in the above embodiment, the case where the control unit 103 notifies the start and end of the treatment process has been described. That is, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the predetermined timing for the control unit 103 to notify is before and after the start and end of the treatment process has been described. However, the notification given by the control unit 103 by the output of the electrical stimulus is not limited to the start and end of the treatment process. The control unit 103 may give other notifications by the output of the electrical stimulus. For example, the control unit 103 may notify the abnormality generated in the electric stimulus applying device 1 by the output of the electric stimulus. For example, when an abnormality occurs in any of the functional units of the electric stimulus applying device 1 in the treatment stage, the control unit 103 of the electric stimulus applying device 1 notifies the user by outputting the electric stimulus with the notification intensity. It can be carried out.

As described above, the control unit 103 can notify the start and end of the treatment process and the occurrence of an abnormality. That is, the predetermined timing at which the control unit 103 outputs the electrical stimulus with the notification intensity is before and after the start and end of the treatment process, and when an abnormality occurs. It should be noted that the predetermined timing does not necessarily have to include all of these timings. That is, the predetermined timing may include at least one of before and after the start and end of the treatment process, and when an abnormality occurs. Further, the predetermined timing may include a timing other than the timing described here. Predetermined timing may be appropriately set in relation to any event that can be notified to the user during the treatment phase.

When the control unit 103 gives a notification by the output of the electrical stimulation, the pattern of the electrical stimulation applied to the living body or the like may be changed according to the type (content) of the notification. For example, when the control unit 103 gives three types of notifications of the start of the treatment process, the end of the treatment process, and the occurrence of an abnormality by the output of the electrical stimulus, the control unit 103 has three different types of notifications according to the three types of notifications. It may be output in the pattern of electrical stimulation. The patterns of electrical stimulation can be varied, for example, by changing at least one of voltage, current, pulse width, frequency, stimulation time, and pause time, as described with reference to FIG. By changing the pattern of the electrical stimulation applied to the living body or the like according to the type of notification, the user who senses the electrical stimulation can distinguish the content of the notification. That is, the user can identify what the notification is about.

Therefore, in the above embodiment, the case where the control unit 103 sets only one notification intensity has been described, but the control unit 103 may set two different notification intensities. The two different notification intensities are the notification intensity output by the electrical stimulation of the start notification and the notification intensity output by the electrical stimulation of the end notification. That is, the notification intensity output by the electrical stimulation of the start notification and the notification intensity output by the electrical stimulation of the end notification may be the same intensity as in the above embodiment, or may be different in intensity. .. The notification intensity output by the electrical stimulation of the start notification and the notification intensity output by the electrical stimulation of the end notification may be higher than the treatment intensity. Further, the electrical stimulation of the start notification and the electrical stimulation of the end notification may have the same stimulation time or different lengths. The stimulation time of the electrical stimulation of the start notification and the electrical stimulation of the end notification is, for example, several seconds each. Further, the electrical stimulation of the start notification and the electrical stimulation of the end notification may be intermittent electrical stimulation having a rest period.

The electrical stimulus application device according to the present disclosure is not limited to the configuration specified in the above-described embodiment, and can be variously modified within a range that does not deviate from the gist of the invention described in the claims. For example, the functions included in each component and each step can be rearranged so as not to be logically inconsistent, and a plurality of components or steps can be combined or divided into one. Is.

The present disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation application device.

1: Electrical stimulation application device 10: Main body 20: Application part 30: Sheet material 31: Frame part 32: Conductive gel 101: Input part 101a: First input part 101b: Second input part 101c: Third input part 102 : Electrode unit 102a: First electrode 102b: Second electrode 103: Control unit 104: Display unit 105: Timer unit 106: Storage unit 107: Power supply unit 108: Heater 109: Temperature measurement unit 110: Electrical stimulation output unit

Claims (10)

1. An electrical stimulus application device that applies a weak electrical stimulus to a living body or a living tissue.
   An input unit that accepts operation input from the user,
   A control unit that controls the output of the electrical stimulation,
   With
   The control unit
   The output intensity of the electrical stimulation can be changed,
   The electrical stimulus is applied to the living body or tissue at a predetermined output intensity lower than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the first operation input to the input unit is detected, and the electrical stimulus is applied.
   The electrical stimulus is applied to the living body or tissue with a notification intensity higher than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the second operation input to the input unit is detected at a predetermined timing.
   Electrical stimulation application device.
2. The control unit
   The electrical stimulus is output while gradually increasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus.
   A predetermined output intensity higher than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the second operation input is detected while the output intensity of the electrical stimulus is gradually increased is set as the notification intensity.
   The electrical stimulation application device according to claim 1.
3. Further provided with a heater for heating the living body or living tissue,
   The control unit
   After detecting the second operation input to the input unit, the living body or living tissue is heated by the heater.
   When the heater reaches a predetermined temperature or higher, the electrical stimulus is applied to the living body or the living tissue at the predetermined output intensity.
   The electrical stimulation application device according to claim 2.
4. The control unit sets the output intensity obtained by multiplying the output intensity of the electrical stimulation output when the second operation input to the input unit is detected by a coefficient greater than 1 as the notification intensity. , The electrical stimulation application device according to claim 2 or 3.
5. The control unit
   The electrical stimulus is output while gradually reducing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus.
   The living body or the living body or the living body has a predetermined output intensity lower than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the first operation input to the input unit is detected while the output intensity of the electrical stimulus is gradually reduced. Applying the electrical stimulation to living tissue,
   The electrical stimulation application device according to any one of claims 2 to 4.
6. 2. The predetermined output intensity is an output intensity obtained by multiplying the output intensity of the electrical stimulation output when the first operation input to the input unit is detected by a coefficient less than 1. The electrical stimulation application device according to any one of 5 to 5.
7. When the control unit detects a second operation input to the input unit while gradually increasing the output intensity of the electrical stimulation, the control unit refers to the input unit when the output intensity of the electrical stimulation is gradually increased. The electric stimulus applying device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the electric stimulus is output while gradually reducing the output intensity of the electric stimulus from the output intensity of the electric stimulus output when the second operation input is detected. ..
8. The predetermined timing is before the application of the continuous electrical stimulus by the predetermined output intensity, after the application of the continuous electrical stimulus by the predetermined output intensity, and the abnormality in the electrical stimulus application device. The electrical stimulation application device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising at least one of the above.
9. The control unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit changes the output pattern of the electrical stimulation applied to the living body or the living body tissue at the predetermined timing according to the type of notification. Electrical stimulation application device.
10. It is an electrical stimulus application method using an electrical stimulus application device that has an input unit that accepts operation input from the user and can output a weak electrical stimulus.
    The step of outputting the electrical stimulus while changing the output intensity of the electrical stimulus,
    A step of applying the electrical stimulus to a living body or a living tissue at a predetermined output intensity lower than the output intensity of the electrical stimulus output when the first operation input is input to the input unit.
    A step of applying the electrical stimulus to the living body or a living tissue at a predetermined timing with a notification intensity stronger than the predetermined output intensity.
    A method of applying electrical stimulation, including.

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