Massage machine

Abstract

To provide a massage machine capable of detecting an abrasion state of a cover part.SOLUTION: A massage machine 100 comprises a cloth-like cover part 1 having conductivity, a measurement part 31, and a detection part 32. The cover part 1 is brought into direct contact with a person-to-be-treated, who undergoes treatment. The measurement part 31 measures an electric resistance value of the cover part 1. The detection part 32 detects abrasion of the cover part 1 on the basis of a change in the electric resistance value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a massage machine. [Background technology]

[0002] In conventional massage machines, a cloth-like cover is provided as an exterior covering on the portion that comes into direct contact with the person being massaged, in order to protect the main body and to improve the tactile sensation during massage.

[0003] For example, in the chair-type massage machine of Cited Document 1, the heater placed in the foot support of the ottoman is covered with a cover made of woven fabric with metal powder woven into it in order to efficiently transfer heat to the soles of the feet.

[0004] In the massage chair of Reference 2, the opening of the backrest is covered with an abrasion-resistant layer woven with multiple conductive wires. The abrasion-resistant layer is grounded to prevent static electricity from being generated in the abrasion-resistant layer, and dust in the air is prevented from being attracted to the abrasion-resistant layer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-170609 A [Patent Document 2] China Utility Model No. 217593306 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Incidentally, the portion of the cover that comes into direct contact with the user wears due to friction with the body parts of the user in response to the treatment action of the massage balls and the movement of the user. As wear progresses, the above-mentioned portion of the cover that comes into direct contact becomes thinner and may tear or develop holes. The degree of wear can usually be confirmed by the user or the owner of the massage machine by visual inspection. However, it is troublesome for the user or the owner to pay attention to the degree of wear. Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not mention this point at all.

[0007] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to provide a massage machine in which the wear state of a cover portion can be easily detected. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, a massage machine according to one aspect of the present invention includes a conductive cloth-like cover, a measuring unit, and a detecting unit. The cover is in direct contact with a person receiving treatment. The measuring unit measures an electrical resistance value of the cover. The detecting unit detects wear of the cover based on a change in the electrical resistance value.

[0009] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following embodiments. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, a massage machine capable of easily detecting the wear state of a cover portion can be provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration example of a chair-type massage machine according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system of a chair-type massage machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 3A] An enlarged view of the first cover part including the part that comes into direct contact with the patient. [Figure 3B]An enlarged view of the second cover part including the part that comes into direct contact with the patient. [Figure 4A] FIG. 11 is a plan view showing another example of the arrangement of electrode pairs on the first cover portion; [Figure 4B] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of the arrangement of electrode pairs in the first cover portion; [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view illustrating a second measurement example of the electrical resistance value of the cover portion; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] <1. Embodiment> Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a configuration example of a chair-type massage machine 100 according to this embodiment. In addition, hereinafter, the chair-type massage machine 100 may be referred to as "massage machine 100".

[0013] In the following description, the front side (front side) as viewed from a user seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest part 102 in an upright position, which will be described later, is referred to as the "front" and the rear side (back side) as the "rear". With respect to the backrest part 102 and the user leaning on the backrest part 102, even when the backrest part 102 is inclined, the user side of the backrest part 102 and the front side of the user may be referred to as the "front". Also, the opposite side of the backrest part 102 from the user and the back side of the user may be referred to as the "rear". Also, the upper side (head side) as viewed from a user seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest part 102 in an upright position is referred to as the "upper" and the lower side (foot side) as the "lower". Further, when viewed from a user seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest 102 in an upright position, the right side is referred to as the "right side" and the left side is referred to as the "left side".

[0014] In the following description, "torso" refers to the central part of the body excluding the head, neck, and limbs. "Thigh" refers to the part from the hip joint to the knee. "Hip joint" refers to the joint that connects the pelvis and the thigh bone (i.e., the femur). "Lower leg" refers to the part from the knee to the ankle. "Foot" refers to the part from the ankle to the tip of the foot (i.e., the toes).

[0015] <1-1. Massager 100> The massage machine 100 includes a seat portion 101, a backrest portion 102, a pair of left and right standing portions 103, a pair of left and right armrest portions 104, and an ottoman 105.

[0016] A person to be treated sits on the seat portion 101. The seat portion 101 supports the buttocks and thighs of the person to be treated.

[0017] The backrest 102 is connected to the rear end of the seat 101 and supports the head, neck, and torso (e.g., waist and back) of the person to be treated. The backrest 102 is rotatable relative to the seat 101 around a backrest rotation axis Ja. The backrest rotation axis Ja passes through the connection between the rear end of the seat 101 and the backrest 102 and extends in the left-right direction. By rotating around the backrest rotation axis Ja, the backrest 102 can rotate backward from an upright position to tilt, or rotate forward from a tilted position to stand.

[0018] The backrest 102 has a pillow 1021, a treatment unit 1022, and a guide rail 1023. The pillow 1021 is disposed on the upper part of the backrest 102 and supports the head, neck, etc. of the person to be treated. The treatment unit 1022 can treat the rear part of the torso of the person to be treated (back, shoulders, waist, etc.). The treatment unit 1022 is disposed inside a main body part (reference numeral omitted) of the backrest 102 and can move in the longitudinal direction along the front surface of the backrest 102. The longitudinal direction is from the top to the bottom when the backrest is upright, for example, from one side of the head and waist of the person to be treated leaning against the backrest 102 to the other side. The pair of left and right guide rails 1023 are disposed inside the main body of the backrest portion 102, extend longitudinally along the front surface of the backrest portion 102, and guide the treatment unit 1022 longitudinally. The treatment unit 1022 further has a lifting unit (not shown) and can be lifted and lowered in the longitudinal direction of the backrest portion 102 along the guide rails 1023.

[0019] The standing portions 103 are provided standing on both the left and right sides of the seat portion 101 and support the armrest portions 104 .

[0020] The armrests 104 are disposed above the standing portion 103. The pair of armrests 104 are disposed on both sides in the left-right direction of the seat portion 101, and support the forearms and hands of the person to be treated. The pair of left and right armrests 104 are symmetrical to each other.

[0021] The ottoman 105 accommodates at least the lower legs of the user. The ottoman 105 is supported at the front end of the seat 101 so as to be rotatable around an ottoman rotation axis Jb. The ottoman rotation axis Jb extends in the left-right direction through a connection between the front end of the seat 101 and the ottoman 105. The ottoman 105 can rotate upward or downward around the ottoman rotation axis Jb while supporting the lower legs of the user.

[0022] In this embodiment, predetermined portions of the seat portion 101, the backrest portion 102, the ottoman 105, etc. are covered with a conductive cloth-like cover portion 1. In other words, the massage machine 100 further includes the cover portion 1. In detail, the seat portion 101, the backrest portion 102, the ottoman 105, etc. of the massage machine 100 each include the cover portion 1. In other words, there are multiple cover portions 1, each of which covers a different portion of the massage machine 100.

[0023] The cover part 1 is a sewn part arranged as an exterior of the massage machine 100, and is in direct contact with the user receiving treatment. As shown in FIG. 1, the cover part 1 includes a first cover part 11, a second cover part 12, a third cover part 13, and a fourth cover part 14. The first cover part 11 is a sewn part that covers at least the upper part of the seat part 101, and is in direct contact with the thighs and buttocks of the user who is seated. The second cover part 12 is a sewn part that covers at least the front of the main body part of the backrest part 102 except for the pillow part 1021, and is in direct contact with the rear part of the torso (back, shoulders, waist, etc.) of the user who is leaning on the backrest part 102. The third cover part 13 is a sewn part that covers at least the front of the pillow part 1021, and is in direct contact with the back of the head, the rear of the neck, etc. of the user who is leaning on the backrest part 102. The fourth cover portion 14 is a sewn portion that covers the ottoman 105, and is in direct contact with at least the lower leg portion of the body part below the knee portion of the user.

[0024] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, the first cover part 11, the second cover part 12, the third cover part 13, and the fourth cover part 14 are all cloth-like sewn parts having electrical conductivity. However, this is not limited to the example, and some of these may be conductive sewn parts and the remaining parts may be non-conductive sewn parts. Hereinafter, the cloth-like sewn parts having electrical conductivity among the exterior of the massage machine 100 may be collectively referred to as "cover part 1".

[0025] The cover 1 is, for example, a woven fabric including conductive threads F (see Figs. 3A to 5 described later). In this case, the cover 1 may be woven using only the conductive threads F, or may be woven using general woven threads and the conductive threads F. The general woven threads are made of natural materials such as cotton, linen, and wool, or resins such as polyester and nylon. The conductive threads F only need to have a higher electrical conductivity than the general woven threads, and preferably have the same degree of abrasion resistance as the general woven threads. For example, the conductive threads F may be metal wires that are thinner or have the same thickness as the general woven threads. Alternatively, the conductive threads F may be threads made by twisting together conductive fibers having a film of a conductive material such as metal or carbon formed on the surface of the fibers (resin fibers, glass fibers), or may be threads made of a resin material or natural material having a film of a conductive material formed on the surface of the thread. However, the conductive threads F are not limited to the above examples. In addition, at the locations where the conductive threads F cross each other, at least the crossing portions of the conductive threads F are insulated to prevent short circuits between the conductive threads at the crossing locations. For example, when some of the conductive threads F are arranged as warp threads and other conductive threads F are arranged as weft threads, an insulating member or the like is arranged between the warp threads and the weft threads at least at the locations where they cross. Alternatively, the surface of the conductive threads F may be covered with an insulating coating.

[0026] Alternatively, the cover portion 1 may be a nonwoven fabric containing conductive fibers as described above.

[0027] <1-2. Control system of massage machine 100> Next, a configuration example of a control system of the massage machine 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system of the massage machine 100 according to this embodiment.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the control system of the massage machine 100 further includes an actuator group 106, a pump 1071, an electromagnetic valve group 1072, an airbag group 1073, an input unit 108, a storage unit 2, a control unit 3, and an alarm unit 4.

[0029] The actuator group 106 includes a plurality of actuators. For example, the actuator group 106 includes an actuator (not shown) that rotates the backrest portion 102 and an actuator (not shown) that rotates the ottoman 105.

[0030] The pump 1071 supplies air to the airbag group 1073 via the solenoid valve group 1072. The airbag group 1073 includes airbags (not shown) arranged in at least one of the seat portion 101, the backrest portion 102, the pair of left and right armrest portions 104, and the ottoman 105. The solenoid valve group 1072 includes solenoid valves for supplying air and solenoid valves for exhausting air, which are provided in the airbag group 1073. The solenoid valves switch between inflating the airbag group 1073, maintaining the inflated and deflated state, and contracting the airbag group 1073. In detail, the solenoid valves switch between communication and cut-off between the pump 1071 and the airbag group 1073.

[0031] For example, when the pump 1071 and the airbag are connected by the operation of the air supply solenoid valve, air is supplied from the pump 1071 to the airbag via the air supply solenoid valve. This causes the airbag to inflate. The exhaust solenoid valve switches between connection and disconnection between the airbag group 1073 and the outside. For example, when the airbag is connected to the outside by the operation of the exhaust solenoid valve, the airbag is released to the outside via the exhaust solenoid valve. This causes the air in the airbag to be exhausted and the airbag to contract. When the airbag is no longer connected to the pump 1071 or the outside by the shutoff of the air supply solenoid valve and the exhaust solenoid valve, the amount of air in the airbag is maintained and the inflated / deflated state of the airbag is maintained.

[0032] The input unit 108 can receive input operations from the person to be treated, and outputs a signal based on the input operation to the control unit 3. The input unit 108 is connected to the control unit 3 via a cord, and can be attached to and detached from a stand (reference number omitted). The stand is fixed to an armrest 104 disposed on the left side of the seat 101 in FIG. 1.

[0033] The storage unit 2 is a non-transient storage medium that retains stored information even when the power supply is stopped. The storage unit 2 stores, for example, programs and data required for the control unit 3 to control the operation of the massage machine 100.

[0034] The control unit 3 controls each part of the massage machine 100 based on the programs and data stored in the memory unit 2, the output signal of the input unit 108, etc. For example, the control unit 3 controls the upright and tilting of the backrest unit 102, the upward or downward rotation of the ottoman 105, etc., by controlling the actuator group 106. The control unit 3 also controls the treatment unit 1022 (treatment, movement, etc.). The control unit 3 also controls the inflation and deflation of each airbag included in the airbag group 1073 by controlling the pump 1071 and the solenoid valve group 1072, etc., preferably individually. The control unit 3 is disposed below the seat 101 in FIG. 1.

[0035] <1-3. Control unit 3> The control unit 3 of the massage machine 100 includes a measurement unit 31 and a detection unit 32. The measurement unit 31 measures the electric resistance value of the cover unit 1. The electric resistance value (in other words, the measurement value of the measurement unit 31) is stored in the memory unit 2. The detection unit 32 detects the wear of the cover unit 1 based on the change in the electric resistance value. In this way, the massage machine 100 can easily detect the wear of the cover unit 1 including the portion A (see Figs. 3A to 5 described later) that directly contacts the user. This allows the massage machine 100 to easily detect the wear state, such as the presence or absence of thinning, tears, or holes due to wear. Therefore, based on the detection result, it is possible to determine whether or not the cover unit 1 needs to be replaced.

[0036] 3A and 3B are schematic plan views for explaining a first measurement example of the electrical resistance value of the cover part 1. FIG. 3A is an enlarged view of the first cover part 11 including the part A that directly contacts the user. FIG. 3B is an enlarged view of the second cover part 12 including the part A that directly contacts the user. Note that the part A of the first cover part 11 in FIG. 3A directly contacts the thighs and buttocks of the user. The part A of the second cover part 12 in FIG. 3B directly contacts the head, neck, and torso of the user. In addition, the first cover part 11 in FIG. 3A and the second cover part 12 in FIG. 3B may each be a woven fabric containing conductive thread F or a nonwoven fabric containing the conductive fiber described above.

[0037] As shown in Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, an electrode pair 310 is attached to the cover part 1. That is, the massage machine 100 further includes the electrode pair 310. The electrode pair 310 may be a single one or a plurality of electrode pairs. The electrode pair 310 is disposed apart in the direction in which the cover part 1 spreads, sandwiching a portion A of the cover part 1 that directly contacts the user.

[0038] For example, in FIG. 3A, the electrode pair 310 is arranged at a distance in the left-right direction in the first cover part 11 of the seat part 101. The electrode pair 310 faces each other in the left-right direction in FIG. 3A. However, the facing direction of the electrode pair 310 is not limited to this example. In the case of FIG. 3A, the facing direction of the electrode pair 310 may be perpendicular to the up-down direction. For example, in FIG. 3A, the electrode pair 310 may be arranged at a distance in the front-rear direction, or may be arranged in a direction that diagonally intersects with the front-rear direction and the left-right direction. Furthermore, both electrodes 3101 and 3102 of the electrode pair 310 may be arranged on the back surface (the surface on the side that does not come into contact with the seated person to be treated) of the cover part 1 (for example, the first cover part 11), or may be arranged on the front surface (the surface on the side that comes into contact with the seated person to be treated) of the cover part 1 (for example, the first cover part 11). Alternatively, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, of the electrode pair 310, one electrode 3101 may be arranged on the back surface of the cover part 1 (e.g., the first cover part 11), and the other electrode 3102 may be arranged on the front surface of the cover part 1 (e.g., the first cover part 11).

[0039] In addition, in FIG. 3B, the electrode pair 310 is arranged at a distance in the left-right direction in the second cover part 12 of the backrest part 102. The electrode pair 310 faces each other in the left-right direction in FIG. 3B. However, the facing direction of the electrode pair 310 is not limited to this example. In the case of FIG. 3B, the facing direction of the electrode pair 310 may be perpendicular to the front-rear direction. For example, in FIG. 3B, the electrode pair 310 may be arranged at a distance in the up-down direction, or may be arranged in a direction that diagonally intersects with the up-down direction and the left-right direction. Furthermore, both electrodes 3101, 3102 of the electrode pair 310 may be arranged on the back surface of the second cover part 12 (the surface on the side that does not come into contact with the seated person to be treated) or on the surface of the second cover part 12 (the surface on the side that comes into contact with the seated person to be treated). Alternatively, one electrode 3101 of the electrode pair 310 may be disposed on the rear surface of the second cover portion 12 , and the other electrode 3102 may be disposed on the front surface of the second cover portion 12 .

[0040] The arrangement of the electrode pairs 310 is the same in the third cover portion 13 of the pillow portion 1021 and the fourth cover portion 14 of the ottoman 105.

[0041] Moreover, the measuring unit 31 measures the electrical resistance value between the electrode pair 310. By measuring the electrical resistance value between the electrode pair 310, the massage machine 100 can detect the wear state of the cover part 1 including the part A that comes into direct contact with the electrode pair 310.

[0042] 3A, for example, the electrode pair 310 is attached to the first cover part 11 of the seat part 101. One electrode 3101 and the other electrode 3102 of the electrode pair 310 are disposed at positions separated from each other across a part A that directly contacts the thighs and buttocks of the user. The measuring part 31 measures the electrical resistance value between the one electrode 3101 and the other electrode 3102 of the electrode pair 310.

[0043] 3B, the electrode pair 310 is attached to the second cover part 12 of the backrest part 102. One electrode 3101 and the other electrode 3102 of the electrode pair 310 are disposed at positions separated from each other across part A that directly contacts the head, neck, trunk, etc. of the user. The measuring part 31 measures the electrical resistance value between the one electrode 3101 and the other electrode 3102 of the electrode pair 310.

[0044] Moreover, the measuring unit 31 measures the electrical resistance values ​​of the second cover part 12, the third cover part 13, and the fourth cover part 14 in the same manner.

[0045] Next, a second measurement example will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view for explaining a second measurement example of the electrical resistance value of the cover part 1, and as an example, shows an enlarged view of the first cover part 11 including the part A that directly contacts the thighs and buttocks of the user.

[0046] In FIG. 5, the cover 1 (i.e., the first cover 11) is a woven fabric including conductive threads F. The conductive threads F include a plurality of first conductive threads F1 and a plurality of second conductive threads F2. The first conductive threads F1 and the second conductive threads F2 are arranged in a mesh pattern. For example, each of the first conductive threads F1 extends in a first direction D1 along the cover 1 and is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 (for example, the second direction D2). Each of the second conductive threads F2 extends in a second direction D2 along the cover 1 and is arranged in a direction perpendicular to the second direction D2 (for example, the first direction D1). The second direction D2 is a direction intersecting the first direction D1, and is perpendicular to the first direction D1 in FIG. 5.

[0047] In addition, in Fig. 5, the first direction D1 is parallel to the left-right direction, and the second direction D2 is parallel to the front-rear direction. However, the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 are not limited to this example. In the case of Fig. 5, the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 may be directions that are perpendicular to the up-down direction and intersect with each other, and preferably are directions that are perpendicular to each other.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 5, electrode pair 310 attached to cover portion 1 has a plurality of first electrode pairs 311 and a plurality of second electrode pairs 312.

[0049] Each of the first electrode pairs 311 is electrically connected to a different first conductive thread F1. One electrode 3111 of each of the first electrode pairs 311 is disposed on one side D1a of some of the first conductive threads F1 in the first direction D1. The other electrode 3112 of each of the first electrode pairs 311 is disposed on the other side D1b of some of the first conductive threads F1 in the first direction D1, and sandwiches a portion A that directly contacts the patient between the one electrode 3111 and the electrode 311. In FIG. 5, the number of the first electrode pairs 311 is three, and four first conductive threads F1 are connected to each of the first electrode pairs 311. However, this is not limited to the example, and the number of the first electrode pairs 311 may be one or a plurality other than three. Also, the number of the first conductive threads F1 connected to each of the first electrode pairs 311 may be one or a plurality other than four. Furthermore, the number of first conductive threads F1 connected to each of the first electrode pairs 311 may be the same as that in FIG. 5, or may be different.

[0050] Moreover, each second electrode pair 312 is electrically connected to a different second conductive thread F2. One electrode 3121 of each second electrode pair 312 is arranged on one D2a side of some second conductive threads F2 in the second direction D2. The other electrode 3122 of each second electrode pair 312 is arranged on the other D2b side of some second conductive threads F2 in the second direction D2, and sandwiches a part A that directly contacts the patient between the one electrode 3121 and the electrode 3121. In FIG. 5, the number of second electrode pairs 312 is three, and four second conductive threads F2 are connected to each second electrode pair 312. However, this is not limited to the example, and the number of second electrode pairs 312 may be one or more than three. The number of second conductive threads F2 connected to each second electrode pair 312 may be one or more than four. Furthermore, the number of second conductive threads F2 connected to each second electrode pair 312 may be the same as that in FIG. 5, or may be different.

[0051] In addition, in Figure 5, the measuring unit 31 measures the electrical resistance value of the first cover part 11, and also measures the electrical resistance values ​​of the second cover part 12, the third cover part 13, and the fourth cover part 14 in a similar configuration.

[0052] In this way, the measurement unit 31 can measure the electrical resistance value of the first conductive thread F1 connected to the first electrode pair 311 for each different first electrode pair 311. Also, the measurement unit 31 can measure the electrical resistance value of the second conductive thread F2 connected to the second electrode pair 312 for each different second electrode pair 312. This makes it possible to detect the wear state of the cover part 1 for each of the two-dimensional segments A1 to A9 divided in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. Therefore, based on the electrical resistance value between the first electrode pairs 311 and the electrical resistance value between the second electrode pairs 312 corresponding to each of the segments A1 to A9, it is possible to identify areas in the cover part 1 that have become thin due to wear, areas where tears or holes have occurred, etc.

[0053] It should be noted that the above examples do not exclude a configuration in which both the first electrode pair 311 and the second electrode pair 312 are singular.

[0054] Next, the memory unit 2 stores a threshold value for the cumulative change in the electric resistance value of the cover unit 1 or a threshold value for the electric resistance value. When the cumulative change in the electric resistance value or the electric resistance value exceeds the threshold value, the control unit 3 of the massager 100 determines that the cover unit 1 is in a state in which it has worn down to a predetermined amount or more. For example, if the cumulative change in the electric resistance value is greater than the threshold value for the cumulative change, the control unit 3 determines that the cover unit 1 is in a state in which it has worn down to a predetermined amount or more. Alternatively, if the electric resistance value is greater than the threshold value for the electric resistance value, the control unit 3 determines that the cover unit 1 is in a state in which it has worn down to a predetermined amount or more. In this way, the massager 100 can detect the wear state of the cover unit 1 based on the threshold value for the cumulative change in the electric resistance value of the cover unit 1 or the threshold value for the electric resistance value.

[0055] Preferably, there are multiple thresholds of the electrical resistance value, each of which is a different value. The detection unit 32 detects the degree of wear of the cover part 1 based on the electrical resistance value of the cover part 1 and the multiple thresholds of the electrical resistance value. In other words, by using multiple different thresholds, the detection unit 32 can detect the wear state of the cover part 1 in stages. Therefore, for example, the degree of thinning due to wear, the scale of tears or holes, etc. can be classified and detected for the cover part 1. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the threshold value of the electrical resistance value is single.

[0056] Furthermore, the measuring unit 31 measures the electrical resistance value at each predetermined timing. In this way, the change in the electrical resistance value of the cover unit 1 over time can be detected, and the detection unit 32 can detect the wear state of the cover unit 1 over time. Preferably, the measurement of the electrical resistance value is performed while the massage machine 100 is stopped or when the person to be treated is not seated. In this way, the electrical resistance value of the cover unit 1 can be measured safely. In addition, the measuring unit 31 can also measure the electrical resistance value of the cover unit 1 in response to an input operation at the input unit 108.

[0057] Furthermore, the detection unit 32 detects wear of each cover part 1 based on a change in the electrical resistance value of each cover part 1. In this way, the wear state of each cover part 1 can be detected. Therefore, for each cover part 1, it is possible to determine whether or not the cover part 1 needs to be replaced based on each detection result. For example, the detection unit 32 can detect a change in the wear state of the first cover part 11 over time based on a change over time in the electrical resistance value of the first cover part 11 measured at a predetermined timing or in response to an input operation. Furthermore, the detection unit 32 can perform similar detection for the second cover part 12, the third cover part 13, and the fourth cover part 14.

[0058] Next, the notification unit 4 (see FIG. 2) notifies the wear state of the cover part 1. The notification unit 4 may be, for example, a display (not shown) arranged on the input unit 108 or the like and capable of displaying information for notification, or may be a speaker capable of outputting audio for notification. In this way, the user, the owner of the massage machine 100, or the like can be notified of the wear state of the cover part 1. For example, the notification unit 4 can notify the user, the owner of the massage machine 100, or the like of the occurrence of problems such as thinning beyond a predetermined level, tears, or holes, thereby urging the user, the owner of the massage machine 100, or the like to replace the cover part 1 (any of the first cover part 11 to the fourth cover part 14 that has a problem).

[0059] In addition, the massage machine 100 may further include a communication unit 5 capable of communicating with a predetermined information device 200 (see FIG. 2). For example, the communication unit 5 is connected to the information device 200 located at a location distant from the massage machine 100 via an information network 201 such as the Internet, and is capable of communicating with the information device 200. The information device 200 is, for example, a personal computer or server of a manufacturer or repairer. The communication unit 5 transmits the wear state of the cover part 1 to the information device 200, so that, for example, the wear state of the cover part 1 can be monitored from the outside. In addition, when the thickness of the cover part 1 exceeds a predetermined level or a tear or hole occurs, these are transmitted to the outside, and, for example, the manufacturer or repairer of the massage machine 100 can be prompted to replace the cover part 1. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the massage machine 100 does not include the communication unit 5.

[0060] In addition, when the material of the cover part 1 differs for each part of the massage machine 100, a different threshold value may be set for each cover part 1 of each part. For example, when the material of the first cover part 11 of the seat part 101 and the material of the second cover part 12 of the backrest part 102 are different, the timing of wear also differs. Therefore, by changing the threshold value, it is possible to set the appropriate timing for replacing the cover part 1 for each part.

[0061] <2. Notes> The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. Note that the above embodiments are merely examples, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component and each process, and that such modifications are within the scope of the present invention.

[0062] In the above embodiment, the present invention is applied to a chair-type massage machine 100 including a backrest 102, an armrest 104, an ottoman 105, and the like in addition to the seat 101. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the present invention is applied to massage machines other than chair-type massage machines. The present invention is applicable to various massage machines having a cover part that covers the main body as an exterior. For example, the massage machine may be a chair-type massage machine in which at least one of the backrest 102, the armrest 104, and the ottoman 105 is omitted, or may be a foot massager. Alternatively, the massage machine may be a massage device that treats the hands or feet, or may be a simple massage device that presses the treatment unit 1022 against a desired body part.

[0063] <3. Summary> The embodiments described thus far will be summarized below.

[0064] For example, the massage machine 100 disclosed herein may: A conductive cloth-like cover part 1 that comes into direct contact with a person receiving treatment, A measuring unit 31 for measuring the electrical resistance value of the cover unit 1; a detection unit 32 that detects wear of the cover portion 1 based on a change in the electrical resistance value; The configuration is a first configuration.

[0065] The massage machine 100 of the first configuration is as follows: The measuring section 31 may be configured to measure the electrical resistance value at each predetermined timing (second configuration).

[0066] In addition, the massage machine 100 having the first or second configuration described above has the following features: The measurement unit 31 measures an electrical resistance value between an electrode pair 310 attached to the cover unit 1, The electrode pair 310 may be arranged in such a manner that they are spaced apart in the direction in which the cover part 1 extends, sandwiching a portion A of the cover part 1 that comes into direct contact with the patient (third configuration).

[0067] In addition, the massage machine 100 having the third configuration described above has the following features: The cover portion 1 is a woven fabric containing conductive yarn F, The conductive thread F includes a plurality of first conductive threads F1 and a plurality of second conductive threads F2, Each of the first conductive threads F1 extends in a first direction D1 along the cover portion 1, and is aligned along the cover portion 1 and in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. Each of the second conductive threads F2 extends in a second direction D2 intersecting the first direction D1 and is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the second direction D2. The electrode pair 310 includes a plurality of first electrode pairs 311 and a plurality of second electrode pairs 312, Each of the first electrode pairs 311 is electrically connected to a different first conductive thread F1, Each of the second electrode pairs 312 may be configured to be electrically connected to a different second conductive thread F2 (fourth configuration).

[0068] In addition, the massage machine 100 having any one of the first to fourth configurations described above has the following features: A storage unit 2 that stores a threshold value for the cumulative change amount of the electrical resistance value or a threshold value for the electrical resistance value, A configuration (fifth configuration) may be used in which it is determined that the cover portion 1 is in a state of being worn down to a predetermined amount or more when the cumulative change amount of the electric resistance value or the electric resistance value exceeds the threshold value.

[0069] In addition, the massage machine 100 having the fifth configuration described above has the following features: The threshold value is a plurality of threshold values, The detection unit 32 may be configured to detect the degree of wear of the cover portion 1 based on the electrical resistance value of the cover portion 1 and a plurality of the threshold values ​​(sixth configuration).

[0070] In addition, the massage machine 100 having any one of the first to sixth configurations described above has the following features: The cover portion 1 is provided in a plurality of portions, each of which covers a different portion of the massage machine 100. The detection unit 32 may be configured to detect wear of each of the cover portions 1 based on a change in the electrical resistance value of each of the cover portions 1 (seventh configuration).

[0071] In addition, the massage machine 100 having any one of the first to seventh configurations described above has the following features: The cover portion 1 may further include a notification portion 4 for notifying a wear state of the cover portion 1 (eighth configuration).

[0072] In addition, the massage machine 100 having any one of the first to eighth configurations described above has the following features: A configuration (ninth configuration) may be possible in which a communication unit 5 capable of communicating with a predetermined information device 200 is further provided. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 100 (chair type) massage machine 101 Seat area 102 Backrest 1021 Pillow part 1022 Treatment Unit 1023 Guide rail 103 Vertical section 104 Armrest 105 Ottoman 106 Actuators 1071 Solenoid valve group 1072 Pump 1073 Airbags 108 Input section 1 Cover part 11 First cover part 12 Second cover part 13 Third cover part 14 Fourth cover part 2 Storage section 3. Control Unit 31 Measuring part 310 Electrode Pair 3101 One electrode 3102 Other electrode 311 First electrode pair 3111 One electrode 3112 Other electrode 312 Second electrode pair 3121 One electrode 3122 Other electrode 32 Detection unit 4. Notification Department 5. Communications Department 200 Information equipment Ja Backrest rotation axis Jb Ottoman Rotating Shaft A Direct contact part A1~A9 segments F Conductive thread F1 First conductive thread F2 Second conductive thread D1 1st direction D2 2nd direction

Claims

1. A conductive cloth-like cover part that comes into direct contact with a person receiving treatment, A measurement unit for measuring an electrical resistance value of the cover portion; a detection unit that detects wear of the cover portion based on a change in the electrical resistance value; A massage machine equipped with

2. The massage machine according to claim 1 , wherein the measurement unit measures the electrical resistance value at predetermined intervals.

3. The measurement unit measures an electrical resistance value between a pair of electrodes attached to the cover unit, The massage machine according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode pair is disposed apart in a direction in which the cover portion expands, sandwiching a portion of the cover portion that comes into direct contact with a person to be massaged.

4. The cover portion is a woven fabric including conductive threads, The conductive yarn includes a plurality of first conductive yarns and a plurality of second conductive yarns, Each of the first conductive threads extends in a first direction along the cover portion and is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, Each of the second conductive threads extends along the cover portion in a second direction intersecting the first direction and is aligned in a direction perpendicular to the second direction, The electrode pairs include a plurality of first electrode pairs and a plurality of second electrode pairs, Each of the first electrode pairs is electrically connected to a different one of the first conductive yarns, The massage machine according to claim 3 , wherein each of the second electrode pairs is electrically connected to the second conductive thread.

5. A storage unit that stores a threshold value for the cumulative change amount of the electrical resistance value or a threshold value for the electrical resistance value, The massage machine according to claim 1 , wherein the cover is determined to be in a state of being worn down to a predetermined amount or more when the cumulative change in the electrical resistance value or the electrical resistance value exceeds the threshold value.

6. The threshold value is a plurality of threshold values, The massage machine according to claim 5 , wherein the detection unit detects a degree of wear of the cover portion based on the electrical resistance value of the cover portion and a plurality of the threshold values.

7. The cover portion is a plurality of cover portions, each of which covers a different portion of the massage machine, The massage machine according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit detects wear of each of the cover parts based on a change in the electrical resistance value of each of the cover parts.

8. The massage machine according to claim 1 , further comprising an indicator that indicates a wear state of the cover portion.

9. The massage machine according to claim 1 , further comprising a communication unit capable of communicating with a predetermined information device.

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