WO2024080035A1

WO2024080035A1 - Massage machine

Info

Publication number: WO2024080035A1
Application number: PCT/JP2023/031976
Authority: WO
Inventors: 二千武稲田
Original assignee: ファミリーイナダ株式会社
Priority date: 2022-10-11
Filing date: 2023-08-31
Publication date: 2024-04-18
Also published as: JP2024056283A

Abstract

[Problem] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a massage machine capable of changing, on the basis of a reaction of a user, a massage operation and image of a massaging unit. [Solution] The present invention is characterized by having a massaging unit for performing a massage on a user, an image display device for displaying an image, a recognition unit for recognizing a response of a user to the image or the massage performed by the massaging unit, and a control unit, wherein: a massaging operation of the massaging unit is set in advance so as to be synchronized with the image; and on the basis of the response of the user recognized by the recognition unit while the image is displayed, the control unit changes the massage operation of the massaging unit and the image.

Description

Massage machine

The present invention relates to a massage machine.

Conventionally, there is known a massage machine that is equipped with a head-mounted display device that displays an image while the massager is performing a massage, and that, in VR (virtual reality) mode, can adjust the playback speed of the video data to synchronize with the movements of the virtual massagee in the moving image when the intensity of the air massage is changed during the air massage (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Patent No. 7050991

The massage machine described in the above Patent Document 1 adjusts the playback speed of the video data to match the changed air massage intensity, and the user who is using the massage machine must manually change the air massage intensity. Therefore, the user must remove the head-mounted display device and operate the remote control every time the air massage intensity is changed, which causes a problem of lacking a sense of reality.
Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a massage machine that can change the massage action and image of the massage section based on the user's reaction.

The present invention comprises a massage unit which performs a massage action on a user, an image display device which displays an image, a recognition unit which recognizes the massage action by the massage unit or the user's reaction to the image, and a control unit, wherein the massage action by the massage unit is preset to be synchronized with the image, and the control unit changes the massage action of the massage unit and the image based on the user's reaction recognized by the recognition unit while the image is being displayed.
With this configuration, the massage action and image can be changed based on the user's reaction, so that the user can receive a realistic massage as if he or she were being massaged by a real person.

It is preferable that the recognition unit is a voice recognition unit that recognizes the voice of the user, and the response is based on voice information of the user recognized by the voice recognition unit.
With this configuration, the reaction of the user can be recognized by the voice uttered by the user.

It is preferable that the massage machine has an operation unit for a user to operate the massage machine, the recognition unit recognizes the operation of the operation unit, the control unit displays information regarding the operation in the image, and the reaction is based on the operation of the operation unit.
With this configuration, the user can operate the massage machine while watching the information related to operation displayed on the image.

The image display device is preferably a wearable device that can be worn by a user.
With this configuration, a more realistic feeling can be achieved.

It is also preferable that the image displayed on the image display device is an image of a massage by a masseuse.
With this configuration, it is possible to obtain a sense of realism as if a masseuse were giving a massage.

It is also preferable that the masseuse to be displayed on the image display device can be selected by the user.
With this configuration, the masseuse that the user prefers can be displayed on the image display device.

It is preferable that the massage device further includes an audio output unit, and the control unit changes the massage action of the massage unit and the image after audio is output from the audio output unit.
With this configuration, the massage action and the image can be changed while talking to the image, so that the user can receive a realistic massage as if he or she were being massaged by a real person.

In addition, it is preferable that the voice recognition unit can detect a specific keyword from the user's voice information, and the control unit changes the massage action of the massage unit and the image based on the keyword detected by the voice recognition unit.
With this configuration, the massage action and the image can be changed while talking to the image, so that the user can receive a realistic massage as if he or she were being massaged by a real person.

Moreover, it is preferable that the keyword is a user's reaction to the massage action.
With this configuration, the massage action can be changed according to the user's reaction.

It is also preferable that the change in the massage action includes at least one of the strength of the massage action, the type of the massage action, the pushing amount of the massage portion, and the speed of the massage action.
With this configuration, it is possible to achieve a massage that is closer to that performed by a human hand.

According to the present invention, the massage action of the massage section can be changed based on the user's voice information.

1 is a perspective view of a massage machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic diagram of a massage machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram of a massage machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of a controller according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which FIG. 1A shows a controller provided in a massage machine, and FIG. 1B shows a controller configured with a portable communication terminal. 1A to 1C are perspective views showing an image display device according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a goggle type, (b) is a sun visor type, and (c) is a glasses type. 1A and 1B are diagrams showing screens for selecting an image to be displayed on a video display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a screen for selecting a masseuse, and (b) is a screen for selecting a location. 1A and 1B are diagrams showing screens for selecting an image to be displayed on a video display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a screen for selecting a procedure or music, (b) is a screen for selecting a purpose or time period, and (c) is a screen for adjusting brightness. 1A and 1B are diagrams showing images displayed on a video display device according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is the image when a Japanese-style room is selected, (b) is an image of the masseuse displayed before the massage begins, and (c) is an image of the masseuse displayed during the massage. 1 is a table showing keywords according to an embodiment of the present invention. 11 is a table for changing the massage action and image of the massage unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a massage course according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[Overall configuration of the massage machine]
The overall configuration of the massage machine 1 of the present invention will be described below. Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the massage machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the massage machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the massage machine 1.
In addition, the concept of direction used in the following explanation is the same as the concept of direction when seen from a user sitting on the massage machine 1 in the usage state shown in Figure 1, and other cases will be explained as appropriate.

As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the massage machine 1 of the present invention mainly comprises a seat 2 on which the user sits, a backrest 3 recliningly provided at the rear of the seat 2 to support the upper body of the user, a footrest 4 swingably provided at the front of the seat 2 to support the legs and/or feet of the user, and armrests 5 on both the left and right sides of the seat 2 on which the user rests their arms. A shoulder unit 7 is attached to the upper side of the backrest 3. The seat 2, backrest 3, footrest 4, armrest 5, and shoulder unit 7 function as a body support that supports the body of the user. An image display device 90 is connected to the massage machine 1 via a wired or wireless connection.

The massage machine 1 is provided with massage sections M (massage sections a1 to a4 described below) that massage the user by pressing against the body. The backrest section 3 is provided with a massage unit 8 that performs kneading massage and/or tapping massage. The shoulder unit 7 is fitted with a shoulder massage section a1 that presses against the user's shoulders from the left and right.

As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the backrest 3 is configured to be able to recline forwards and backwards relative to the seat 2 by a first actuator 11 (see Figure 3) provided below the seat 2, and can be stopped at any position between the standing position shown in Figure 1 and the reclined position in which the backrest surface is approximately horizontal with the floor. The footrest 4 is configured to be able to swing up and down relative to the seat 2 by a second actuator 12 (see Figure 3) provided below the seat 2, and can be stopped at any position between the hanging position shown in Figure 1 and the raised position in which the legs or feet are supported with the knees extended.

As shown in Figures 1 and 3, below the seat 2, there is provided an air supply/exhaust device 10 having a pump 10a and a valve 10b for supplying and exhausting air to each massage section a1 to a4, which are made up of air cells, and a control unit 9 for controlling various operations of the massage machine 1.
The control unit 9 has a programmable microcomputer and the like, and drives and controls the massage unit 8, the air supply and exhaust device 10, the first actuator 11, and the second actuator 12. A controller 16 operated by a user is electrically connected to the control unit 9. The massage machine 1 operates according to a program (massage course) pre-stored in the memory unit 13, and also operates according to instructions from the user via the controller 16.

[Seat configuration]
As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the seat 2 supports the buttocks and/or the back of the thighs of the user. A pair of buttock massage sections a3 on the left and right sides are provided on the upper surface of the seat 2 for massaging the buttocks and/or the back of the thighs of the user. The buttock massage sections a3 are made of air cells that expand and contract by supplying and discharging air. The pair of buttock massage sections a3 on the left and right sides may be configured to expand and contract independently. In addition, side massage sections (not shown) for massaging the side of the buttocks and/or thighs of the user may be provided on the side of the seat 2.

[Configuration of the backrest]
As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the backrest 3 supports the upper body of the user. The backrest 3 is composed of a rigid back frame 3a, a massage unit 8 as a massage unit assembled to the back frame 3a, a guide rail (not shown) for guiding the up and down movement of the massage unit 8, and a cover member 3c for covering the back frame 3a. The back frame 3a is composed of a metal member and/or a resin member. The back frame 3a has an opening 3b formed in the center of the left and right sides and opening in the front and rear directions, and is approximately gate-shaped when viewed from the front. The cover member 3c covers the opening 3b from the front. The massage head of the massage unit 8 protrudes forward from the opening 3b, so that the user's torso can be massaged from behind through the cover member 3c. The backrest 3 may be provided with a massage unit (not shown) other than the massage unit 8 for massaging the back of the user.

[Armrest Configuration]
As shown in Fig. 1 to Fig. 3, armrests 5 are provided on both the left and right sides of the seat 2 to support the user's hands and forearms. The armrests 5 are formed in a U-shape, consisting of a support surface on which the user's hands and forearms are placed, an outer wall protruding upward from the side of the support surface, and an upper wall protruding inward from the outer wall so as to face the support surface (see Fig. 1). An arm massage section a2 is provided on each of the upper surface of the support surface and the lower surface of the upper wall. The arm massage section a2 is composed of an air cell that expands and contracts by supplying and discharging air. Any number of arm massage sections a2 may be attached. The left and right sides may be configured to expand and contract independently.

[Configuration of footrest section]
1 to 3, the footrest 4 is provided with a pair of left and right and upper and lower leg massage sections a4 for massaging the user's legs. The leg massage sections a4 are made of air cells. The left, right, upper and lower leg massage sections a4 may be configured to be able to expand and contract independently.

[Controller configuration]
4A and 4B are schematic diagrams of the controller 16 according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) shows the controller 16 provided in the massage machine 1, and (b) shows the controller 16 configured as a portable communication terminal. The controller 16 corresponds to an operation unit.
4A, the controller 16 has a display 17, physical buttons 18 such as a power button, a recognition unit 14 for recognizing the massage action of the massage unit M or the user's reaction to the image, and an audio output unit 15 for outputting audio. Icons such as massage courses are displayed on the display 17 (see FIG. 6, etc.).

The user's reaction refers to the changes or actions that are shown as a result of the user being stimulated by the massage action of the massage unit M or the image displayed on the image display device 90, such as the voice made by the user, the user's facial expression, the user's gaze, and the user's body movements.
In this embodiment, a case will be described in which a voice recognition unit that recognizes the user's voice is used as the recognition unit 14 that recognizes the user's reaction, but this is just an example and is not limiting. The recognition unit 14 may be any type that can recognize the user's reaction.

For example, the user's reaction may be the user's facial expression or the user's body movements.
When the user makes a distorted facial expression, the recognition unit 14 recognizes that the massage action being performed is an uncomfortable action that causes pain to the user. The control unit 9 changes the massage action and image of the massage unit M based on the content recognized by the recognition unit 14 (the user makes a distorted facial expression).
Moreover, when the user moves his/her body away from the massage machine 1, the recognition unit 14 recognizes that the massage action being performed is an uncomfortable action that causes pain to the user. The control unit 9 changes the massage action and image of the massage unit M based on the content recognized by the recognition unit 14 (the user moves his/her body away).

In order to recognize the facial expressions and body movements of the user, it is advisable to provide the controller 16 with an imaging unit (camera) 19 (see FIG. 4). The imaging unit (camera) can function as the recognition unit 14. In this case, the controller 16 is preferably attached to the armrest 5 of the massage machine 1 via a remote control stand (not shown). By attaching the controller 16 to the armrest 5, the user does not need to hold the controller 16. In addition, since the controller 16 is stably supported by the armrest 5, the imaging unit (camera) 19 is also prevented from shaking. Furthermore, since the distance of the user seated on the massage machine 1 is constant, highly accurate recognition results can be obtained.

Also, the user's reaction is the user's gaze.
When using the massage machine 1, the user wears the image display device 90. Therefore, while the massage course is being performed by the massage machine 1, the user's gaze is fixed on the display 91 of the image display device 90. By equipping the image display device 90 with an eye tracking function capable of tracking the movement of the gaze, the gaze (movement of the eyes) of the user can be tracked. In other words, the image display device 90 can function as the recognition unit 14. By giving the image display device 90 the function of the recognition unit 14, the user's reaction can be recognized without causing the user to feel bothered.

In addition, the user's reaction is the operation of the operation unit (controller 16). The massage machine 1 has an operation unit (controller 16) for the user to operate the massage machine 1. Information on the operation (e.g., selection of massage course, selection of massage strength, selection of video to be played, etc.) is displayed on the image display device 90. The user selects the content to be executed from the displayed information on the operation by operating the operation unit (controller 16). At this time, by mounting a function capable of recognizing the operation of the operation unit (controller 16) on the recognition unit 14, the operation of the operation unit (controller 16) can be recognized as the user's reaction. The operation unit (controller 16) may be attached to the massage machine 1 via a remote control stand, or may be a handheld type.
By doing so, the user does not need to remove the image display device 90 when operating the massage machine 1, and can operate the massage machine 1 while watching the information related to operation displayed on the image while wearing the image display device 90. Note that these are only examples and are not limited to the above.

For example, it is possible to appropriately combine a plurality of recognition units 14. As an example, a case where voice information of a user and a facial expression of the user are recognized will be described.
When the recognition unit 14 recognizes that the user has made a distorted facial expression during the massage course, the recognition unit 14 recognizes that the massage action being performed is an unpleasant action that causes pain to the user. Based on the recognition result, the control unit 9 outputs a voice such as "Was the massage action strong?" from the voice output unit 15. If the user answers "strong," the control unit 9 changes the content of the massage action of the massage unit M to a weaker action (technique, speed, number of times, etc.), and changes the image being displayed on the image display device 90.

In addition, when recognizing the user's voice information and the user's body movements, if the recognition unit 14 recognizes that the user has pressed his or her body against the massage machine 1 during a massage course, the recognition unit 14 recognizes that the massage action being performed is weak for the user. Based on the recognition result, the control unit 9 outputs a voice such as "Is the massage strength weak?" from the voice output unit 15. If the user answers "weak," the control unit 9 changes the content of the massage action of the massage unit M (technique, speed, number of times, etc.) to a stronger massage, and changes the image being displayed on the image display device 90.
In this way, by appropriately combining a plurality of recognition units 14, it is possible to obtain more accurate recognition results.

In this example, a case has been described in which a recognition unit 14 that recognizes the user's voice information and a recognition unit 14 that recognizes the user's facial expressions are provided separately, but a single recognition unit 14 may have multiple functions (a function to recognize the user's voice information, a function to recognize the user's facial expressions, and a function to recognize the user's body movements).

In addition, various patterns are assumed for the combination of the multiple recognition units 14. For example, when combining two, it is possible to combine the user's voice information with the user's gaze, combine the user's voice information with the operation of the operation unit (controller 16), or combine the user's gaze with the operation of the operation unit (controller 16). Note that the combination patterns are only examples, and it is possible to combine the recognition units 14 that recognize each function. Also, it is possible to combine three or four.
In this way, by appropriately combining a plurality of recognition units 14, it is possible to obtain more accurate recognition results.

The configuration of the controller 16 is merely an example and is not limited thereto, and may be any configuration that can operate the massage machine 1. For example, the display 17 may have a touch panel function. As shown in FIG. 4(b), a portable communication terminal such as a smartphone carried by the user may be used as the controller 16. When using a portable communication terminal as the controller 16, it is preferable that an operation app is downloaded separately via the Internet and the massage machine 1 is configured to be operated using the downloaded operation app.

[Configuration of the video display device]
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an image display device 90 according to an embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a goggle type, (b) is a sun visor type, and (c) is a glasses type.
As shown in Fig. 5, the image display device 90 according to one embodiment of the present invention is a wearable type that can be worn by a user. More specifically, it is a head-mounted display that can be worn on the head of a user. By making the image display device 90 a wearable type, an image from the user's line of sight is displayed, thereby providing the user with a more realistic feeling.

As shown in Fig. 5(a), a goggle-type image display device 90 will be described. The goggle-type image display device 90 is composed of a display 91 for displaying an image, and a band 92 for fixing the display 91 to the user's head. Both ends of the band 92 are attached to the left and right ends of the display 91. By attaching the band 92 to the left and right ends of the display 91, the image display device 90 can be stably fixed to the user's head.
The band 92 is preferably made of an elastic material (e.g., rubber or elastomer) and is preferably configured to be adjustable in length. By configuring the band 92 to be made of an elastic material and to be adjustable in length, it can be easily fitted to the size of the user's head.

As shown in Fig. 5(b), a sun visor type image display device 90 will be described. The sun visor type image display device 90 is composed of a display 91 for displaying an image, a band 92 for fixing the display 91 to the user's head, and a support member 93 for attaching the display 91 to the band 92. The band 92 is preferably composed of a hard material such as synthetic resin. By making the band 92 out of a hard material, it can be easily fitted to the user's head.
The display 91 and the band part 92 are attached via a support member 93. More specifically, the support member 93 is attached so that the upper left and right ends of the display 91 and the left and right ends of the band part 92 are not separated, and the display 91 can rotate around the support member 93. By configuring the display 91 to rotate around the support member 93, the user does not need to remove the image display device 90 from the head every time he or she wants to check the outside situation.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the case where the image display device 90 is configured as glasses will be described. The glasses-type image display device 90 is configured with a display 91 for displaying an image and a band part 92 for fixing the display 91 to the user's head. In this embodiment, the display 91 is configured to be separated into left and right for the right eye and left eye, but this is only an example and is not limited to this. For example, the display 91 may be configured with a single lens as shown in FIG. 5A. The band part 92 is a so-called temple of glasses, and has a shape that is slightly curved from the front to the rear. By slightly curving the rear of the band part 92, the band part 92 can be hooked on the user's ear. The band part 92 is attached to both the left and right sides of the display 91. By attaching the band part 92 to both the left and right sides of the display 91, the image display device 90 can be stably supported at three points, the left and right ears and the nose.
The band portion 92 is preferably made of a hard material (such as plastic or metal) so that the band portion 92 can be easily adjusted to fit the width of the user's head with a simple structure.

The image display device 90 can be connected, by wire or wirelessly, to an information communication terminal such as a smartphone carried by the user (see FIG. 4(b)) or the massage machine 1 (more specifically, the controller 16 of the massage machine 1 (see FIG. 4(a)). By connecting the image display device 90 to the information communication terminal, the image displayed on the display 17 of the information communication terminal or the controller 16 can be displayed directly on the display 91 of the image display device 90. In this way, the user can check the content displayed on the information communication terminal or the controller 16 on the image display device 90.
Furthermore, by configuring the massage machine 1 so that it can be operated using the voice recognition unit 14 described below, the user can operate the massage machine 1, such as selecting a massage course, while still wearing the image display device 90 on his or her head.

FIG. 6 shows a screen for selecting an image to be displayed on the image display device 90 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a screen for selecting a masseuse, and (b) is a screen for selecting a location. FIG. 7 shows a screen for selecting an image to be displayed on the image display device 90 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a screen for selecting a technique or music, (b) is a screen for selecting a purpose or time period, and (c) is a screen for adjusting brightness.

As shown in FIG. 6(a), the user can freely select the image of the masseuse to be displayed on the display 91 of the image display device 90. In other words, the user can display the masseuse of his/her preference on the display 91. For example, the user can select the gender (male/female) D1. Some users do not want to be massaged by people of the opposite sex, while others do not want to be massaged by people of the same sex. By being able to select the gender, the user can receive a massage in a more suitable state for the user. In addition, for example, the user can select the age group (under 20 to 70) D2. Some users do not want to be massaged by people of a similar age, while others do not want to be massaged by people of a different age. By being able to select the age group, the user can receive a massage in a more suitable state for the user.

Note that these are just examples and are not limiting. For example, it may be configured so that anime characters or mascots (animals) can be selected as masseuses. It may also be configured so that age can be specified. This can help the user feel more attached to the massage machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the user can freely select images of locations, such as landscapes and scenes, to be displayed on the display 91. In other words, the user can display the locations that he or she likes on the display 91. Unlike gender and age group, locations are quite broad in scope, so it is preferable that they are divided into categories in advance to save the user the trouble of making a selection. For example, the categories are divided into Japan and overseas, and it is possible to select either Japan or overseas (D3). The categories are divided into indoors and outdoors, and it is possible to select either indoors or outdoors (D4). The categories are divided by location or space, and it is possible to select a specific location (D5), such as a Japanese-style room, a palace, Hawaii, or Rome.
In this way, the user can receive a massage while watching an image of the desired location, which gives the user a sense of realism as if they were receiving a massage at the desired location.

Note that the locations displayed on the display 91 are merely examples and are not limiting. For example, the display 91 may be configured to work with a map application such as Google Maps (registered trademark). By configuring the display 91 to work with a map application, a specific location selected by the user can be pinpointed and displayed as an image on the display 91. In addition, a location may be registered as a favorite once it has been selected. By configuring the display 91 to be configured to allow registration of favorites, the user can be spared the trouble of having to select a location each time.

Also, as shown in FIG. 7(a), the user may be able to select a preferred technique (D6). For example, some users may have a preferred technique, while others may have techniques they do not like (do not want to have). By allowing the user to select the technique, the user can receive a massage in a more comfortable state. Also, music and vibration (D7) may be selectable. The music may be music that has been stored in advance in the memory unit 13 of the massage machine 1, or it may be music that is connected to a music playback device owned by the user via a wired or wireless connection and played from the music playback device.

Also, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the user may be able to select his/her purpose (D8). For example, if the user's purpose is yoga, then by selecting the yoga icon, an image that gives a taste of the yoga atmosphere, such as an image of India, can be displayed on the display 91. The user may also be able to select his/her preferred time period (D9). For example, if the user is feeling sleepy and wants to clear his/her mind and feel refreshed, he/she can select the morning icon, and an image of a clear, blue morning sky can be displayed on the display 91. A brightness icon may also be provided so that the brightness can be set directly.

7(c), the brightness of the image displayed on the display 91 may be directly set. For example, the brightness may be set to the user's preference (D10) by directly operating a meter, or an arrow icon may be provided and the brightness may be set to the user's preference (D11) by operating the arrow icon.
It is not necessary to select and set all of these D1 to D11. A skip button may be provided so that the selection of other items can be skipped when the user has completed the selection and setting required for the user. Also, the time during which selection and setting can be performed may be determined in advance. By determining the time during which selection and setting can be performed in advance, the selected content can be automatically displayed after the predetermined time has elapsed.

FIG. 8 shows images displayed on an image display device 90 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is the image when a Japanese-style room is selected, (b) is an image of the masseuse displayed before the massage begins, and (c) is an image of the masseuse displayed during the massage.

When the user selects a Japanese-style room as a favorite place (D5), an image of the Japanese-style room as shown in Fig. 8(a) is displayed on the display 91 of the image display device 90. It is preferable that the displayed image is linked to the direction of the user's face. By displaying the image in linkage with the direction of the user's face, when the user turns to the right, an image of the right side of the Japanese-style room is displayed, and when the user turns to the left, an image of the left side of the Japanese-style room is displayed.
In other words, the image displayed on the display 91 is continuous no matter where the user faces, and while wearing the image display device 90 and using the massage machine 1, the user can escape from reality and receive a massage in a relaxed state.

The massage action by the massage unit M is set in advance to be synchronized with the image displayed on the display 91. By synchronizing the massage action with the image in advance, it is possible to prevent any misalignment between the image and the massage action. The image is changed by the control unit 9 based on the user's voice information recognized by the voice recognition unit 14 provided in the controller 16. The massage action of the massage unit M is also changed in accordance with the change in the image. Details will be described later.

The following describes the dialogue between the user and the massage machine 1 through the voice recognition unit 14 and the voice output unit 15. As shown in Fig. 8(b), when the user turns on the power of the massage machine 1 and selects D1 to D11, the masseuse H selected by the user is displayed on the display 91 of the image display device 90.
The masseuse H displayed on the display 91 starts a conversation with the user. First, the masseuse H outputs a question necessary to understand the user's condition (for example, a question such as "Are you feeling tired?" (F1)) from the voice output unit 15.

When the user responds to the question (for example, "My waist is stiff" (F2)), the voice recognition unit 14 recognizes the content of the user's response. Based on the recognized content of the response, the voice output unit 15 outputs a voice corresponding to the content of the response (for example, a question such as "I understand. How about the waist intensive course?" (F3)). Then, when the user responds again to the question (for example, a response such as "Well, that's it" (F4)), the voice recognition unit 14 recognizes the content of the user's response and starts the execution of the waist intensive course. At this time, the content of the voice output by the voice output unit 15 may be displayed as a speech bubble on the display 91. In this way, even if the user misses the voice output from the voice output unit 15, the user can understand the content of the question and the content of the response by checking the display 91.
If the user has selected a massage course before interacting with the masseuse H, it is preferable that steps F1 to F4 are omitted.

When a massage course is being performed, an image such as that shown in FIG. 8(c) is displayed on the display 91. The user can converse with the masseuse H even while a massage course is being performed. For example, questions necessary to understand whether the massage action of the massage unit M is optimal for the user (e.g., a question such as "How strong is the pressure?" (F5)) are output from the voice output unit 15. When the user answers the question (e.g., a question such as "Can you make it a little stronger?" (F6)), the voice recognition unit 14 recognizes the content of the user's answer. Based on the recognized content of the answer, the voice output unit 15 outputs a voice corresponding to the content of the answer (e.g., a question such as "I understand. Is this OK?" (F7)).

At this time, after the sound is output from the sound output unit 15, the control unit 9 changes the massage action and image of the massage unit M. This allows the user to change the massage action while watching the image and talking, so that the user can receive a realistic massage as if he or she were being massaged by a real person.
The change in the massage action may include at least one of the strength of the massage action, the type of massage action (technique), the amount of pushing of the massage part M, and the speed of the massage action. For example, when answer F6 is recognized, in order to strengthen the massage action, the amount of pushing of the massage part M is increased, the massage action is strengthened (increased number of times), or the expansion time of the air cells is lengthened. In this way, it is possible to make the massage action closer to that of a human hand.
The changed content of the massage action may be stored in the storage unit 13 .

If the user then responds to the question again (for example, by saying "OK"), the voice recognition unit 14 recognizes the user's response and continues the massage course with the revised massage action. At this time, the voice output by the voice output unit 15 may be displayed as a speech bubble on the display 91. In this way, even if the user misses the voice output from the voice output unit 15, they can check the display 91 to understand the question and response.

In addition, the user may be able to skip or end the dialogue with masseuse H by responding with a specific keyword (for example, a word such as "end dialogue"), or the dialogue may be resumed (for example, by asking a question such as "What happened?") by the voice recognition unit 14 recognizing a specific keyword uttered by the user (for example, a word such as "oh, that hurts").

FIG. 9 is a table showing keywords according to an embodiment of the present invention. The keywords are stored in the storage unit 13. The keywords are the user's reaction to the massage action of the massage unit M. The user's reaction is a negative reaction, a positive reaction, or a normal reaction that is neither negative nor positive to the massage action being performed. A negative reaction refers to words such as "painful" or "too strong" that are uttered when the user feels uncomfortable. A positive reaction refers to words such as "a little stronger" or "repeat" that are uttered when the user feels that the massage is about to become comfortable. A normal reaction refers to words such as "feels good" or "feels good" that are uttered when the user feels comfortable.
9 are merely examples and are not limiting. Any keywords that indicate the user's reaction may be used.
In addition, the configuration may be such that the keywords stored in the memory unit 13 can be updated via the Internet, such as by adding new keywords to the memory unit 13, changing or deleting stored keywords, etc.

FIG. 10 is a table for changing the massage action and image of the massage unit M according to one embodiment of the present invention. A case where a user selects massage course C installed in the massage machine 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 10. For massage course C, predetermined times t1 to t6 and massage actions and images corresponding to the predetermined times t1 to t6 are predefined.

When the user starts massage course C (t1), the massage machine 1 starts operating based on a predetermined table. The table is pre-associated with the strength of the massage action corresponding to massage course C, the type of massage action (technique), the amount of pressure exerted by the massage section M, the speed of the massage action, the amount of expansion of the air cells, and the image to be displayed on the display 91.

After starting operation (t1), the massage machine 1 starts to communicate with the user. At this time, images like those in Fig. 8(b) and (c) are displayed on the display 91. During the conversation with the user, if the voice recognition unit 14 detects a specific keyword (for example, the word "Ouch!" uttered by the user) at timing t2, it recognizes that the massage action being performed is unpleasant for the user.

The control unit 9 changes the massage action of the massage unit M and the image displayed on the display 91 based on the keyword recognized by the voice recognition unit 14. More specifically, the strength of the massage action is changed from "5 to 3", the amount of pushing of the massage unit M is changed from "5 to 3", the speed of the massage unit is not changed, the amount of expansion of the air cells is changed from "5 to 2", and the image displayed on the display 91 is changed from "A to B". As an example of the image, image A is an image of masseuse H massaging firmly, and image B is an image of masseuse H massaging gently. Note that this is merely an example, and the content of the images displayed is not limited to this.

At this time, the contents of the entire table for massage course C from t2 onwards are also changed. For example, in the table before the change, at the timing of t3, the strength of the massage action was set to "4", the amount of pushing of massage part M to "4", the speed of the massage action to "5", and the amount of expansion of the air cells to "4". However, by changing the contents of the entire table, the strength of the massage action is changed to "1", the amount of pushing of massage part M to "1", the speed of the massage action to "1", and the amount of expansion of the air cells to "2".

Then, the conversation with the user continues. At the timing of t3, if the voice recognition unit 14 detects a specific keyword (for example, the user's expression "a little stronger"), it will recognize that the massage action being performed is not satisfactory for the user.

The control unit 9 changes the massage action of the massage unit M and the image displayed on the display 91 based on the keyword recognized by the voice recognition unit 14. More specifically, it changes the strength of the massage action from "1 to 3", the amount of pushing of the massage unit M from "1 to 2", the speed of the massage action from "1 to 3", the amount of expansion of the air cells from "2 to 3", and changes the image displayed on the display 91 from "B to C". As an example of an image, image C is an image in which masseuse H is massaging with slightly stronger pressure compared to image B. Note that this is merely an example, and the content of the image displayed is not limited to this.

At this time, the contents of the entire table for massage course C from t3 onwards are also changed. For example, in the table before the change, at time t4, the strength of the massage action was set to "1", the amount of pushing of massage part M to "2", the speed of the massage action to "2", and the amount of expansion of the air cells to "2". However, by changing the contents of the entire table, the strength of the massage action is changed to "2", the amount of pushing of massage part M to "3", and the amount of expansion of the air cells to "3". The speed of the massage action remains the same.

Then, the conversation with the user continues. At the timing of t4, if the voice recognition unit 14 detects a specific keyword (for example, the user's expression "a little stronger"), it will recognize that the massage action being performed is not satisfactory for the user.

The control unit 9 changes the massage action of the massage unit M and the image displayed on the display 91 based on the keyword recognized by the voice recognition unit 14. More specifically, it changes the expansion amount of the air cells from "3" to "4" and changes the image displayed on the display 91 from "C" to "D" without changing the strength of the massage action, the amount of pushing of the massage unit M, or the speed of the massage action.

At this time, the contents of the entire table for massage course C from t4 onwards are also changed. For example, in the table before the change, at the timing of t5, the strength of the massage action was set to "2", the amount of pushing of massage part M to "3", the speed of the massage action to "2", and the amount of expansion of the air cells to "3". However, by changing the contents of the entire table, the strength of the massage action, the amount of pushing of massage part M, and the speed of the massage action are maintained, but the amount of expansion of the air cells is changed to "4".

As an example of the images, image D shows masseuse H massaging with stronger pressure than in image C (less pressure than in image A). Note that this is merely an example, and the content of the images displayed is not limited to this.

Then, the conversation with the user continues. At time t5, when the voice recognition unit 14 detects a specific keyword (for example, the word "feels good" uttered by the user), it recognizes that the massage action being performed is optimal for the user, and continues the massage action with the changed content (massage strength "2", massage part M pushing amount "3", massage speed "2", air cell expansion amount "4", image "Image D") until the end of massage course C.

In this way, the massage action and image of the massage unit M can be changed by the control unit 9 based on the keyword detected by the voice recognition unit 14, so that the massage action can be changed while talking to the image, and the user can receive a realistic massage as if a real person were massaging them. Also, since the keyword is the user's reaction to the massage action, the massage action can also be changed depending on the user's reaction.

[Control pattern]
Fig. 11 is a flow diagram of a massage course according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 11, the massage course is composed of a plurality of steps.
First, the user selects a course button on the controller 16 to start a massage course (S-1). At this time, an icon displayed on the controller 16 may be displayed on the display 91 of the image display device 90. In this way, the user can start a massage course while still wearing the image display device 90.
The controller 16 may be of the type shown in FIG. 4( a ), or may be a type in which a portable communication terminal such as a smartphone carried by the user can be used as a controller, as shown in FIG. 4( b ).

When the massage course is started, a dialogue with the user is started (S-2). The dialogue with the user can be performed by displaying on the display 91 of the image display device 90 or by using the voice recognition unit 14 and the voice output unit 15. Either one of the methods or both of the methods may be adopted.
In the case of the method of displaying on the display 91, as shown in FIG. 8C, a speech bubble F5 is displayed on the display 91, thereby making it possible to have a conversation with the user.
In the case of a method using a voice recognition unit 14 and a voice output unit 15, voice is output from the voice output unit 15, and the voice recognition unit 14 recognizes the voice information uttered by the user in response to the output voice, thereby making it possible to communicate with the user.
It is also possible to configure the device to have a dialogue before starting a massage course. In that case, as shown in Fig. 8(b), recommended massage courses can be presented to the user through dialogue, and the user can select and start a massage course through voice recognition.

The voice recognition unit 14 detects a keyword from the voice information uttered by the user (S-3). If a keyword is detected (YES in S-3), the massage operation of the massage unit M and the image displayed on the display 91 are changed based on the detected keyword (S-4). If a keyword is not detected (NO in S-3), the dialogue is started again (proceed to S-5). The keyword to be detected is the user's reaction to the massage operation. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, negative words, positive words, and normal words that are neither negative nor positive with respect to the massage operation being performed are used. Negative words are, for example, "painful" or "too strong" and are used when the user feels that the massage operation being performed is uncomfortable. Positive words are, for example, "a little stronger" or "repeat" and are used when the user feels that the massage operation being performed will be comfortable for the user in a little while. Normal words are, for example, "feels good" or "feels good" and are used when the massage operation being performed is comfortable for the user.
The keywords to be detected are merely examples and are not limiting. Any keywords that indicate a reaction of the user may be used.

When the massage action and the image displayed on display 91 are changed, for example, if the massage action is made stronger, the image displayed on display 91 is changed to an image of a stronger massage. Conversely, if the massage action is made weaker, the image displayed on display 91 is changed to an image of a weaker massage. After the massage action and the image displayed on display 91 are changed, dialogue is carried out again with a time lag (S-5). Each of these steps (S-2) to (S-5) is repeatedly executed until a predetermined time has elapsed (until YES is obtained in S-6).

It is possible that some users may not want to have any further conversations once the massage action that is optimal for them has been performed. For this reason, the controller 16 may be provided with a skip button (not shown) for skipping the conversation, or an end button (not shown) for ending the conversation. In addition, for users who find operating the controller 16 troublesome, the conversation may be skipped or ended by voice recognition by the voice recognition unit 14.

If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in S-6), steps (S-2) to (S-5) are repeatedly executed until the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in S-6). When the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in S-6), the massage course ends (S-7).
In addition, after the course is completed, the massage action and image of the massage part M changed based on the dialogue may be stored in the storage part 13. By storing them in the storage part 13, the next time a massage course is selected, the massage course can be started from the massage action and image of the massage part M stored in the storage part 13.

The present invention can be applied to a massage machine that can change the massage action and image of the massage section based on the user's reaction.

Control unit 9
Voice recognition unit 14
Image display device 90
Massage Department M

Claims

A massage unit that performs a massage on a user;
a video display device that displays a video;
a recognition unit that recognizes a user's reaction to the massage by the massage unit or the image;
A control unit,
The massage action by the massage unit is preset to be synchronized with the image,
The control unit changes the massage action of the massage unit and the image based on the user's reaction recognized by the recognition unit while the image is being displayed.
the recognition unit is a voice recognition unit that recognizes a user's voice,
2. The massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the reaction is based on voice information of the user recognized by the voice recognition unit.
An operation unit for a user to operate the massage machine,
The recognition unit recognizes an operation of the operation unit,
The control unit displays information regarding the operation on the image,
The massage machine according to claim 1 , wherein the reaction is based on an operation of the operation unit.
The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the image display device is a wearable type that can be worn by the user.
The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the image displayed on the image display device is an image of a massage performed by a masseuse.
The massage machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the masseuse displayed on the image display device can be selected by the user.
Further comprising an audio output unit,
The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control unit changes the massage action of the massage unit and the image after the sound is output from the sound output unit.
The voice recognition unit is capable of detecting a specific keyword from the voice information of the user,
The massage machine according to claim 2 , wherein the control unit changes the massage action of the massage unit and the image based on the keyword detected by the voice recognition unit.
The massage machine according to claim 8, characterized in that the keyword is the user's reaction to the massage action.
The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the change in the massage action includes at least one of the strength of the massage action, the type of the massage action, the amount of pushing of the massage section, and the speed of the massage action.