Massage system

Abstract

The present invention provides a massage system comprising: a muscle stiffness input unit for allowing a user to input the location and condition of muscle stiffness; a program determination unit for determining a massage program suitable for the location and condition of muscle stiffness input through the muscle stiffness input unit; and a massage machine control unit for causing the massage machine to execute the massage program determined by the program determination unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a massage system. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-250072 discloses a massage machine comprising a seat, a backrest, armrests, a leg rest, and a base serving as the base for these components. The backrest described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-250072 is equipped with a massage assembly having a pair of kneading balls on the left and right sides, which can be raised and lowered. The massage assembly includes a kneading mechanism for causing the kneading balls to rotate eccentrically, and a tapping mechanism for causing the kneading balls to rock back and forth. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a massage system that allows users to easily input the location and condition of muscle stiffness.

[0004] Methods for solving problems

[0005] One embodiment of the present invention provides a massage system, comprising: a muscle stiffness input unit for allowing a user to input the location and condition of muscle stiffness; a program determination unit for determining a massage program suitable for the location and condition of muscle stiffness input through the muscle stiffness input unit; and a massage machine control unit for causing the massage machine to execute the massage program determined by the program determination unit.

[0006] This structure allows users to easily input the location and severity of muscle stiffness. Furthermore, it enables massage tailored to the user's specific area and condition of muscle stiffness.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, the massage system includes a portable terminal capable of communicating with the massage machine control unit, the portable terminal including the muscle stiffness input unit and the program decision unit.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, the muscle stiffness input unit is configured to: display a human body map in a human body map display area in a touch panel type display unit, which is a region divided by body part in a recognizable manner, representing the range of each of a plurality of pre-set body parts, and determine the muscle stiffness location and muscle stiffness condition based on the area of ​​the user's contact movement on the human body map and its area.

[0009] In one embodiment of the present invention, the muscle stiffness input unit includes: a first unit that applies a first color to the body contact area and a region symmetrical to the body contact area line relative to the left and right center lines of the body map display area from the moment the user's body comes into contact with the body map display area until the body leaves the body map display area; and a second unit that, when the proportion of the area of ​​the first color applied to the region distinguished by body part (i.e., the region distinguished by the region of interest) is greater than or equal to a given value, removes the first color when the body leaves the body map display area, and applies a second color representing the location and condition of muscle stiffness to the entire region distinguished by the region of interest.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, as the second color, a variety of second colors with different concentrations depending on the degree of muscle stiffness are prepared. The second unit is configured such that when the second color is to be applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest, if the concentration of the currently applied second color is not the concentration that indicates the highest degree of muscle stiffness, a second color with a concentration that indicates a higher degree of muscle stiffness than the concentration of the currently applied second color is applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, as the second color, a variety of second colors with different colors depending on the degree of muscle stiffness are prepared. The second unit is configured such that when the second color is to be applied to the entire area distinguished by the part of interest, if the second color has already been applied to the entire area distinguished by the part of interest, and if the color of the currently applied second color does not represent the highest degree of muscle stiffness, then a second color representing a higher degree of muscle stiffness than the currently applied second color is applied to the entire area distinguished by the part of interest.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the muscle stiffness input unit is configured to: display a human body map on a touch panel display unit, which depicts regions divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the ranges of a plurality of pre-defined body parts, and determine the muscle stiffness location and muscle stiffness condition based on the user's contact position and contact duration on the human body map.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the muscle stiffness input unit is configured to: display a human body map on a touch panel display unit, which depicts regions divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the range of each of a plurality of pre-defined body parts, and determine the muscle stiffness location and muscle stiffness condition based on the user's pressing position and pressing force on the human body map.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, the muscle stiffness input unit is configured to: display a human body map on a touch panel display unit, which depicts regions divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the ranges of a plurality of pre-defined body parts, and determine the muscle stiffness location and muscle stiffness condition based on the user's click location and number of clicks on the human body map. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 It is a block diagram representing the overall structure of the massage system.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a partial sectional perspective view showing the appearance of the massager and portable terminal.

[0017] Figure 3 It is a three-dimensional diagram illustrating the structure of the massage components.

[0018] Figure 4A This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the massage machine.

[0019] Figure 4B It is a gas circuit diagram that shows the gas circuit from the air pump to each airbag.

[0020] Figure 5 It is a block diagram representing the electrical structure of a portable terminal.

[0021] Figure 6A This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the main screen of a remote control. Figure 6B This is an illustration of an example of a screen showing a pairing waiting process. Figure 6C This is an example diagram showing the screen after pairing is complete.

[0022] Figure 7A This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a registration screen on a portable terminal. Figure 7B This is an illustration showing an example of a screen displaying a list of connected devices. Figure 7C This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a connected screen. Figure 7D This is an example diagram showing the screen after the connection is complete.

[0023] Figure 8A This is an illustration representing an example of an application's home screen. Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a human body map.

[0024] Figure 9A This is a schematic diagram showing the movement trajectory of a finger when the user makes a contact movement with the left forearm on the human body map screen.

[0025] Figure 9B It means in such Figure 9A The diagram shows the application of the first color after the finger has been touched and moved as shown.

[0026] Figure 9C It means in such Figure 9B The diagram shows how, when the finger leaves the human body map screen with the first color applied, the first color disappears and the second color is applied to the entire left and right forearms.

[0027] Figure 10A This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a concentration display screen. Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the analysis result screen.

[0028] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the first procedure selecting the contents of a table.

[0029] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating an example of how the second procedure selects the contents of a table.

[0030] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the contents of a color density / intensity transformation table.

[0031] Figure 14A This is a flowchart illustrating part of the process performed by the control unit of a portable terminal when the human body map mode is selected in the application's main screen.

[0032] Figure 14B This is a flowchart illustrating part of the processing performed by the control unit of a portable terminal when the human body map mode is selected in the application's main screen.

[0033] Figure 14C This is a flowchart illustrating part of the process performed by the control unit of a portable terminal when the human body map mode is selected in the application's main screen.

[0034] Figure 15A , Figure 15B as well as Figure 15C These are schematic diagrams showing examples of human body maps where colors have been applied to indicate the location and degree of muscle stiffness.

[0035] Figure 16This is a part of a flowchart illustrating a portion of the processing performed by the control unit of a portable terminal when Modified Example 1 is applied.

[0036] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating a part of the processing performed by the control unit of the portable terminal when Modified Example 2 is applied.

[0037] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating a part of the processing performed by the control unit of the portable terminal when Modified Example 3 is applied.

[0038] -Symbol Explanation-

[0039] 1. Massage System

[0040] 2. Chair-type massage machine

[0041] 3 Portable Terminal

[0042] 4 servers

[0043] 5. Communication Network

[0044] 23 Massage Components

[0045] 25 Remote Controls

[0046] 31. Upper arm airbag

[0047] 32. Thigh airbag

[0048] 33. Forearm airbag

[0049] 34. Calf Airbag

[0050] 35. Foot airbag

[0051] 51 Kneading Ball

[0052] 60 Control Department

[0053] 90 Control Department

[0054] 91 Memory

[0055] 92 Muscle stiffness input section

[0056] 93. Procedure Decision Department

[0057] 94 Program Sending Department

[0058] 101 1st Communications Department

[0059] 102 2nd Communications Department

[0060] 103 Operation Display Section. Detailed Implementation

[0061] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] [1] Overall structure of the massage system

[0063] Figure 1 This is a block diagram showing the overall structure of the massage system 1. The massage system 1 includes a chair-type massage machine (hereinafter referred to as "massage machine 2"), a portable terminal 3, and a server 4. In this embodiment, the portable terminal 3 is a smartphone. The portable terminal 3 is a portable terminal used by a user (the person receiving the massage) who wants to receive a massage through the massage machine 2. The massage machine 2 and the portable terminal 3 can communicate wirelessly, for example, via Bluetooth (a registered trademark). The portable terminal 3 and the server 4 can communicate via a communication network 5.

[0064] When a massage is performed using massage machine 2, the massage history is sent to portable terminal 3. The massage history includes the date and time of the massage, the massage course, and the massage intensity for each area. Portable terminal 3 saves the massage history received from massage machine 2 to its memory. Portable terminal 3 then sends the massage history saved in its memory to server 4 in real time or at given time intervals. Server 4 saves the massage history received from portable terminal 3 separately for each user of portable terminal 3.

[0065] [2] The appearance of the massager

[0066] Figure 2 This is a partial sectional perspective view showing the appearance of the massage machine 2 and the portable terminal 3.

[0067] The massage machine 2 includes a seat 11, a backrest 12, armrests 13, a leg rest (foot stool) 14, and a base that serves as their base.

[0068] In the following description, the terms front-back, left-right, and up-down directions refer to the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions as observed from the user's perspective when the user is sitting in the massage machine 2 in a normal posture.

[0069] The base exists below the seat 11, however... Figure 2 The seat 11, backrest 12, armrest 13, and leg rest 14 are omitted and therefore not shown.

[0070] A seat 11 is mounted on a base. A backrest 12 is mounted at the rear of the seat 11. Armrests 13 are mounted on the left and right sides of the seat 11. Leg rests 14 are mounted at the front of the seat 11. The backrest 12 is rotatable via an actuator 21 (see reference). Figure 4AThe leg support 14 is supported at an angle relative to the seat 11. Furthermore, the leg support 14 can be rotated by a leg-mounting actuator 22 (see reference 11). Figure 4A The leg support 14 rotates around a pivot shaft extending in the left-right direction and located near the upper part of the seat. Thus, the leg support 14 can... Figure 2 The figure shows a rotation between a vertical pose and a horizontal pose that has been rotated approximately 90 degrees from the vertical pose.

[0071] A massage component 23 is built into the backrest 12. The massage component 23 is used to perform various massages (mechanical massage) using a pair of left and right treatment parts (kneading balls) 51. A pair of left and right U-shaped guide rails 28, 29 extending in the vertical direction are provided on the backrest 12 (see reference). Figure 3 The massage component 23 can move vertically along the guide rails 28 and 29. Detailed structure of the massage component 23 will be described later.

[0072] The armrest 13 is provided with an arm assembly 16 having a forearm storage recess 17 for accommodating the user's forearm. The leg rest 14 has a leg storage recess 18 and a foot storage recess 19 for accommodating the user's left and right legs and feet, respectively.

[0073] Airbags are provided in the backrest 12, seat 11, armrests 13, and leg rest 14 of the massage machine 2. Each airbag expands and contracts by the supply and exhaust of air, thereby providing a gas-type massage to the user.

[0074] The backrest 12 is equipped with an upper arm airbag 31a for massaging the right upper arm and an upper arm airbag 31b for massaging the left upper arm. These airbags 31a and 32b together constitute the upper arm airbag 31 for massaging the upper arm.

[0075] The seat 11 is equipped with a pair of left and right thigh transverse airbags 32a and 32b for massaging the sides of the thigh, a pair of left and right thigh dorsal airbags 32c and 32d for massaging the upper back of the thigh, and a thigh dorsal airbag 32e for massaging the lower back of the thigh. These airbags 32a to 32e constitute the thigh airbag 32 for massaging the thigh.

[0076] On both sides of the left and right forearm receiving recesses 17, there are forearm body airbags 33a and 33b for massaging the forearm, and hand airbags 33c and 33d for massaging the hand. These airbags 33a to 33d constitute the forearm airbag 33 for massaging the forearm and hand.

[0077] Lateral calf airbags 34a and 34b are provided on both sides of the left and right leg storage recesses 18 for massaging the sides of the calves. Back calf airbags 34c and 34d are provided on the bottom surface of the left and right leg storage recesses 18 for massaging the back of the calves. These airbags 34a to 34d together constitute a calf airbag 34 for massaging the calves.

[0078] On both sides of the left and right foot-receiving recesses 19, there are instep-side airbags 35a and 35b for pressing the outer side of the foot downwards. On the bottom surface of the left and right foot-receiving recesses 19, there are foot-side airbags 35c and 35d for pressing the sole of the foot upwards. These airbags 35a to 35d constitute a foot-massaging airbag 35.

[0079] A remote control holder 24 is mounted on the arm assembly 16. A remote control (hereinafter referred to as "remote control 25") for user operation of the massage machine 2 is detachably mounted on the remote control holder 24. On the operating surface of the remote control 25, as shown... Figure 4A As shown, an operation display unit 26 and multiple operation keys are provided. The operation display unit 26 includes, for example, a touch panel type LCD display. The remote control 25 is equipped with a communication unit for wireless communication with the portable terminal 3.

[0080] [3] Structure of massage components

[0081] Figure 3 It is a perspective view illustrating the structure of the massage component 23.

[0082] The massage assembly 23 is freely mounted up and down relative to the guide rails 28 and 29. The massage assembly 23 includes a rectangular frame 41. The main frame 41 includes a pair of left and right side walls, and a top wall and a bottom wall that respectively connect the upper ends and lower ends of these side walls to each other. A guide shaft 42 extending in the left and right direction and a lifting drive shaft 43 are rotatably mounted on the main frame 41.

[0083] A guide shaft 42 is disposed on the upper part of the main frame 41, and a lifting drive shaft 43 is disposed on the lower part of the main frame 41. Both ends of the guide shaft 42 and the lifting drive shaft 43 protrude outwards from the side walls of the main frame 41. Guide rollers 44, guided by guide rails 28 and 29, are mounted at both ends of the guide shaft 42. Pinions 45, meshing with racks (not shown) provided on the guide rails 28 and 29, are mounted at both ends of the lifting drive shaft 43.

[0084] A lifting motor 46 for rotating the lifting drive shaft 43 is mounted on the main frame 41. The lifting motor 46 is connected to the lifting drive shaft 43 via a gear mechanism 47. By rotating the lifting motor 46, the massage assembly 23 moves up and down along the guide rails 28 and 29.

[0085] A lifting position sensor 48 is provided in the massage assembly 23. This lifting position sensor 48 is used to detect the lifting position (vertical position) of the massage assembly 23 by detecting the amount of rotation of the lifting drive shaft 43. The lifting position sensor 48 includes a rotary encoder for detecting the amount of rotation of the lifting drive shaft 43.

[0086] A rocking frame 49 is mounted at the midpoint of the length of the lifting drive shaft 43, allowing it to rock freely in the front-to-back direction. A pair of left and right treatment components 51 and a treatment component drive assembly 50 with the drive mechanism are mounted on the rocking frame 49. A treatment component drive assembly retraction mechanism is provided on the main frame 41 for moving the rocking frame (treatment component drive assembly) forward and backward in the front-to-back direction.

[0087] The retraction mechanism of the treatment component drive assembly is described. A retraction shaft 52, located below the guide shaft 42 and extending in the left-right direction, is rotatably mounted on the main frame 41. A retraction motor 53 for rotating the retraction shaft 52 is mounted on one side of the main frame 41. The retraction motor 53 is connected to the retraction shaft 52 via a gear mechanism 54. A pair of pinions 55 are mounted at the midpoint of the length of the retraction shaft 52. Arc-shaped racks 56 meshing with the pinions 55 are respectively provided on the upper part of the rocking frame 49. When the retraction shaft 52 is rotated by the retraction motor 53, the pinions 55 rotate, and the arc-shaped racks 56 move. This causes the rocking frame 49 to rock around the lifting drive shaft 43. Consequently, the treatment component drive assembly 50 (treatment component 51) retracts in the front-back direction.

[0088] A front-to-back position sensor 57 is provided in the massage assembly 23. This sensor is used to detect the front-to-back position of the treatment component drive assembly 50 by detecting the amount of rotation of the advance-retreat axis 52. The front-to-back position sensor 57 includes an encoder for detecting the amount of rotation of the advance-retreat axis 52.

[0089] The treatment component drive assembly 50 includes: a kneading mechanism that performs a kneading action by eccentrically rotating the treatment component 51; and a tapping mechanism that performs a tapping action by rocking the treatment component 51 in the back-and-forth direction. The kneading mechanism includes a kneading motor 58 as an actuator (drive source). The tapping mechanism includes a tapping motor 59 as an actuator (drive source). Such kneading and tapping mechanisms are known.

[0090] [4] Electrical structure of massage machine 2 and portable terminal 3

[0091] Figure 4A This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the massage machine 2. Figure 4B It is a gas circuit diagram that shows the gas circuit from the air pump to each airbag.

[0092] Referring to Figure 4, a control unit 60 for controlling the massage machine 2 is built into the interior of the massage machine 2. The control unit 60 is an example of the "massage machine control unit" of the present invention. The control unit 60 includes a microcomputer and has a CPU, memory (RAM, ROM, non-volatile memory), etc. In addition to the CPU program, various data are stored in the memory.

[0093] The control unit 60 is connected to a remote control 25, a drive circuit 71 for the backrest rotation actuator 21, and a drive circuit 72 for the leg rotation actuator 22. The control unit 60 is further connected to a drive circuit 73 for the lifting motor 46, a drive circuit 74 for the forward / backward motor 53, a drive circuit 75 for the kneading motor 58, and a drive circuit 76 for the tapping motor 59 within the massage assembly 23. The control unit 60 is also further connected to a lifting position sensor 48 and a front / back position sensor 57 within the massage assembly 23.

[0094] The control unit 60 is further connected to a drive circuit 77 for an air pump 81 and a drive circuit 78 for a plurality of solenoid valves 82a to 82s. Gas is supplied from the air pump 81 to each solenoid valve 82a to 82s. Hereinafter, when referring to the solenoid valves 82a to 82s collectively, they will sometimes be called solenoid valve 82.

[0095] Reference Figure 4B An airbag 31a for the upper right arm is connected to solenoid valve 82a, and an airbag 31b for the upper left arm is connected to solenoid valve 85b. An airbag 32a for the right thigh (lateral direction) is connected to solenoid valve 82c, and an airbag 32b for the left thigh (lateral direction) is connected to solenoid valve 82d. An airbag 32c for the back of the right thigh is connected to solenoid valve 82e, and an airbag 32d for the back of the left thigh is connected to solenoid valve 82f. An airbag 32e for the lower back of the thigh is connected to solenoid valve 82g.

[0096] An airbag 33a for the forearm body of the right arm is connected to solenoid valve 82h, and an airbag 33b for the forearm body of the left arm is connected to solenoid valve 82i. An airbag 33c for the right hand is connected to solenoid valve 82j, and an airbag 33d for the left hand is connected to solenoid valve 82k.

[0097] A right calf lateral airbag 34a is connected to solenoid valve 821, and a left calf lateral airbag 34b is connected to solenoid valve 82m. A right calf back airbag 34c is connected to solenoid valve 82n, and a left calf back airbag 34d is connected to solenoid valve 82o. A right instep side airbag 35a is connected to solenoid valve 82p, and a left instep side airbag 35b is connected to solenoid valve 82q. A right foot ball side airbag 35c is connected to solenoid valve 82r, and a left foot ball side airbag 35d is connected to solenoid valve 82s.

[0098] In this embodiment, each airbag configured in pairs on the left and right sides is provided with a separate solenoid valve. However, it is also possible to provide a shared solenoid valve for the two airbags configured in pairs.

[0099] If the solenoid valve 82 of an airbag is energized, air is supplied to the airbag from the air pump 81 via the solenoid valve 82. The airbag inflates as a result. Conversely, if the solenoid valve 82 of the airbag is demagnetized, air inside the airbag is expelled to the outside via the solenoid valve. The airbag then contracts.

[0100] The control unit 60 controls the drive circuits 71 and 72 of each actuator 21 and 22 based on the operation of the remote control 25 and the portable terminal 3. Furthermore, the control unit 60 controls the drive circuits 73-76 of each motor 46, 53, 58, and 59, the drive circuit 77 of the air pump 81, and the drive circuit 78 of the solenoid valve 82 based on the operation of the remote control 25 and the portable terminal 3. Thus, the massage machine 2 can perform various massage functions.

[0101] The massage mode includes manual mode, automatic mode, body map mode, medical mode, and history mode.

[0102] Manual mode is the mode that performs the massage corresponding to the type of massage selected by the user.

[0103] Automatic mode allows users to select their desired massage program from a variety of massage programs and execute the selected massage program.

[0104] The body map mode allows users to input the location and condition of their stiff muscles, determines the appropriate massage program based on the input location and condition, and executes the determined massage program.

[0105] The medical mode is a mode that determines and executes a massage program that is suitable for the user's biological information such as steps, sleep time, and pulse rate (heart rate).

[0106] The history mode allows users to select their desired massage program from the massage programs they have received in the past and then perform the selected massage program.

[0107] Figure 5 This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the portable terminal 3.

[0108] The portable terminal 3 includes a control unit 90. The control unit 90 includes a microcomputer and is equipped with a CPU, memory (RAM, ROM, non-volatile memory) 91, etc. The memory 91 stores various data in addition to the CPU program. A first communication unit 101, a second communication unit 102, and an operation display unit 103 are connected to the control unit 90. The first communication unit 101 is a communication interface for wireless communication between the control unit 90 and the remote control 25 (the control unit 90 of the massage machine 2). The second communication unit 102 is a communication interface for communication between the control unit 90 and the server 4 or other portable terminals via the communication network 5. The operation display unit 103 includes, for example, a touch panel type liquid crystal display.

[0109] [5] Human body map mode

[0110] The following is a detailed explanation of the human body map mode.

[0111] The portable terminal 3 stores an application (hereinafter referred to as the "massage application") in its memory 91 (non-volatile memory) for implementing human body map mode, medical mode, or resume mode, or for sending resume data to the server 4. The control unit 90 functions as a multi-function processing unit by executing the massage application.

[0112] To achieve the human body map mode, a feature of this invention, the control unit 90, as a function processing unit, includes: a muscle stiffness input unit 92 for allowing the user to input the location and condition of muscle stiffness; a program determination unit 93 for determining a massage program suitable for the input location and condition of muscle stiffness; and a program transmission unit 94 for transmitting the determined massage program to the massage machine 2 via the first communication unit 101. The control unit 60 of the massage machine 2 has the function of causing the massage machine 2 to execute the massage program received from the portable terminal 3.

[0113] [5.1] Starting the massage machine

[0114] The user starts the massage machine 2 by turning on the power switch of the remote control 25. Thus, as... Figure 6AThe main screen shown (hereinafter referred to as the "remote control main screen") is displayed on the operation display section 26 of the remote control 25. The remote control main screen displays a program selection button 111 for selecting various massage programs, a manual button 112 for manually selecting massage types, a setting button 113 for making various settings, and a Bluetooth button 114, etc. The Bluetooth button 114 displays the Bluetooth logo. When the massager 2 is not connected to the portable terminal 3, the Bluetooth logo is displayed in white.

[0115] If the user clicks the Bluetooth button 114, the massager 2 enters a connection waiting state (pairing waiting mode) with the portable terminal 3. At this time, the operation display unit 26 displays as follows: Figure 6B The pairing waiting screen is shown below. The pairing waiting screen displays the words "Pairing Mode," a pair of arc-shaped arrow markers, a stop button, and a Bluetooth (registered trademark) button. During the pairing waiting period, the pair of arc-shaped arrow markers rotate.

[0116] Then, if the massager 2 and the portable terminal 3 are connected, the operation display unit 26 will display the following: Figure 6C The pairing completion screen is shown below. In the pairing completion screen, the paired arc arrows in the pairing waiting screen change to √ marks. The √ mark is a mark similar to the "レ" character.

[0117] If a given time (e.g., 2 seconds) elapses after the connection completion screen is displayed, the remote control main screen (see reference) will be displayed on the operation display unit 26. Figure 6A However, in this case, the Bluetooth (registered trademark) mark on the Bluetooth (registered trademark) button 114 is displayed in blue.

[0118] [5.2] Launching the massage application

[0119] The user launches the massage application by clicking the icon of the massage application displayed on the operation display unit 103 of the portable terminal 3. Thus, as... Figure 7A The registration screen shown is displayed on the operation display unit 103. The registration screen displays the registration ID input unit 121, the password input unit 122, the registration button 123, etc.

[0120] If a user has already registered, and then clicks the registration button 123, the operation display unit 103 will display the following: Figure 7BThe connected device list screen is shown. The connected device list screen displays type selection buttons 124 and 125, indicating the type of massager in pairing waiting mode. The user clicks the type selection button corresponding to the type of massager they wish to use.

[0121] If the given type selection button is clicked, the control unit 90 of the portable terminal 3 performs processing to connect the portable terminal 3 to the massager 2 of the type corresponding to the type selection button (hereinafter referred to as the "selected type"). If the selected type is XY-0001, then the operation display unit 103 will display the following: Figure 7C The connection screen displays a message indicating "Connecting to XY-0001" as shown. If the massager 2 is in pairing waiting mode, then the portable terminal 3 connects to the massager 2.

[0122] If the portable terminal 3 is connected to the massager 2, the operation display unit 103 will display the following: Figure 7D The connection completion screen appears as shown. If the selected type is XY-0001, the message "Connection completed with XY-0001" is displayed on the connection completion screen. Then, the main screen of the massage application (hereinafter referred to as the "application main screen") is displayed on the operation display unit 103.

[0123] Figure 8A This is an illustration representing an example of an application's main screen.

[0124] The main screen of the application displays a connection status bar 131 indicating the connection status with the massager 2, a human body map mode button 132, a medical mode button 133, and multiple history buttons 134.

[0125] When the portable terminal 3 is connected to the massager 2, the string "Connecting" is displayed in the connection status bar 131. When the portable terminal 3 is not connected to the massager 2, the string "Not connected" is displayed.

[0126] The Human Body Map Mode Button 132 is used to set the massage mode to Human Body Map Mode. The Human Body Map Mode Button 132 displays the string "Human Body Map" or similar text. If the Human Body Map Mode Button 132 is clicked, the operation display unit 103 displays a human body map screen for the user to input the location and condition of muscle stiffness. Details regarding the human body map screen are described later.

[0127] The medical mode button 133 is used to set the massage mode to medical mode. The medical mode button 133 displays, for example, biometric information such as the user's steps, sleep time, and pulse rate, along with a message suggesting a massage program suitable for that biometric information. In this example, it displays the user's daily steps and a message suggesting a massage program suitable for that number of steps. When the medical mode button 133 is pressed, the operation display unit 103 displays a program selection screen suggesting a massage program suitable for the user's steps, sleep time, pulse rate, etc. Then, if the user performs a given operation on the program selection screen, the massage machine 2 executes the suggested massage program.

[0128] The history button 134 is used to set the massage mode to history mode. The history button 134 displays the names of massage programs previously performed on the user, along with the massage date and time. If the history button 134 is clicked, a program selection screen corresponding to that history button 134 is displayed on the operation display unit 103. Then, if the user performs a given operation on the program selection screen, the massage machine 2 executes the prompted massage program.

[0129] [5.3] Human Body Map

[0130] If the human body map mode button 132 is clicked on the main screen of the application, the portable terminal 3 will display, for example, on the operation display unit 103, the following: Figure 8B The human body map screen is shown below. The human body map screen includes a title area E1, a human body map display area E2, a message area E3, and a button area E4. The title area E1 is a horizontally elongated rectangular area at the upper end of the operation display unit 103, and the button area E4 is a horizontally elongated rectangular area at the lower end of the operation display unit 103. The message area E3 is a horizontally elongated rectangular area above the button area E4. The human body map display area E2 is a vertically elongated rectangular area between the title area E1 and the message area E3.

[0131] The title area E1 displays the string "Human Body Map". The human body map display area E2 displays human body map 141. The message area E3 displays the message "Please apply to the areas you wish to massage". The button area E4 displays an OK button 142 and a reset button 143. Furthermore, the human body map display area E2 only needs to include human body map 141, and its size and shape can be arbitrarily set.

[0132] Human body map 141 includes a diagram of a rear view of the human body. In the diagram of the rear view of the human body, regions representing the extent of several pre-defined body parts are depicted in a recognizable manner. In this embodiment, the various body parts include "neck / shoulder," "back," "waist," "hips," "upper arm," "forearm," "thigh," "calf," and "foot." In Figure 8, dashed lines show a portion of the left and right center lines of the rear view of the human body. Such dashed lines may or may not be displayed within the human body map 141.

[0133] On the human body map screen (more precisely, the human body map display area E2), the user brings a part of their body into contact with and moves it towards an area with high fatigue (muscle stiffness). In this embodiment, the part of the body is a finger. When a finger comes into contact with the human body map display area E2, the finger contact area (body contact area) and the area symmetrical to the finger contact area relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map 141 are colored. This color applied to the finger contact area and its symmetrical area is called the first color. Here, the "finger contact area" can be the exact area the finger is contacting, or it can include the area the finger is contacting and the area nearby. Thus, the movement trajectory of the finger on the human body map display area E2 (including the symmetrical area) is colored using the first color. The first color is, for example, gray. Alternatively, the first color can be any color other than gray.

[0134] Then, before the finger leaves the human body map display area E2 (human body map screen), if the area covered by the first color in the area divided by body part (i.e., the area divided by the area of ​​interest) is at least a given percentage of the area divided by the area of ​​interest, then when the finger leaves the human body map display area E2, the first color is removed and a color representing the location and condition of muscle stiffness is applied to the entire area divided by the area of ​​interest. The given percentage is, for example, set to 60%. This color applied to the entire area divided by body part (the color representing the location and condition of muscle stiffness) is called the second color. In this embodiment, multiple second colors with different concentrations depending on the condition of muscle stiffness are prepared as the second color. In this embodiment, the higher the concentration of the second color, the higher the condition of muscle stiffness. Alternatively, the lower the concentration of the second color, the higher the condition of muscle stiffness.

[0135] The second color is, for example, a blue-based color in this embodiment. However, the second color can also be a color other than blue. Furthermore, regarding the first color applied to the human body map by finger contact, regardless of the area covered by the first color, it disappears when the finger leaves the operation display unit 103.

[0136] Reference Figure 9A , Figure 9B as well as Figure 9C To illustrate, for example, the process of applying the second color to the forearm.

[0137] The user makes contact with the human body map display area E2 and primarily moves the finger on, for example, the left forearm. Figure 9A The curve S represents the trajectory of the finger in this situation. If... Figure 9A If you move your finger as shown, then... Figure 9B As shown, a first color of arbitrary width is applied along the movement trajectory of the finger, and a first color of arbitrary width is applied along a line symmetrical to the movement trajectory of the finger relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map 141. Figure 9B In the diagram, the area covered by the first color is set to be at least 60% of the forearm's area. Then, if the finger leaves the human body map display area E2, then... Figure 9C As shown, the first color is removed and the second color is applied to the entire left and right forearms.

[0138] After the finger leaves the area marked with the second color, it is brought into contact with that area again. Then, if the area covered by the newly applied first color within that area reaches 60% or more, and the finger leaves the human body map display area E2, the overall color density of the second color in that area increases by one level. In other words, in this embodiment, the location and degree of muscle stiffness are determined based on the area and region of the user's finger contact with the human body map 141.

[0139] Regarding the color concentration used to indicate muscle stiffness, it is represented by four levels: 0, 1, 2, and 3, in ascending order of concentration. Level 0 represents the state where the second color has not been applied. In this embodiment, the colors with concentrations of 0 to 3 are set as follows: Level 0 is white. Level 1 is light blue (low concentration of the second color). Level 2 is blue (medium concentration of the second color). Level 3 is dark blue (high concentration of the second color).

[0140] In addition, the reset button 143 is used to reset the color density of all parts-separated areas to 0.

[0141] Once the application of the second color at a concentration corresponding to the degree of muscle stiffness to each stiff area is complete, the user clicks the OK button 142. If the OK button 142 is clicked, the portable terminal 3 displays the following on the operation display unit 103: Figure 10A The concentration display screen is as shown.

[0142] In the color density display screen, the color density is displayed numerically for each body part. Specifically, the number of horizontally arranged black dots indicates four levels of color density. A count of 0 black dots represents color density 0; a count of 1 black dot represents color density 1; a count of 2 black dots represents color density 2; and a count of 3 black dots represents color density 3. Furthermore, the color density display screen displays an "Analyze" button 144 and a "Return" button 145. Additionally, when viewing the human body map screen (see...) Figure 8B If any area within the body part is not painted with the second color, and the OK button 142 on the human body map screen is clicked, the click operation can be set to invalid.

[0143] If the resolution button 144 is clicked on the concentration display screen, the portable terminal 3 determines the appropriate massage program based on the muscle stiffness location and condition input via the human body map screen. Then, the portable terminal 3 displays... Figure 10B The analysis result screen is as shown. The analysis result screen displays the name, massage time and content of the massage program determined by the portable terminal 3, and displays the massage start button 146.

[0144] If the user clicks the massage start button 146, the portable terminal 3 will send the massage program displayed in the analysis result screen to the massage machine 2. If the massage machine 2 receives the massage program from the portable terminal 3, it will execute the received massage program.

[0145] [5.4] Operation of portable terminal 3

[0146] In the memory 91 of the portable terminal 3 (refer to) Figure 5 The system stores program selection tables 151 and 152 (see reference) used to determine the appropriate massage program for the stiff muscles and their condition as input from the human body map screen. Figure 5 ); and color density / intensity transformation table 153 (see reference) Figure 5 ).

[0147] The program selection table includes: a first program selection table 151 for use when only one of the nine sites is selected as the site of muscle stiffness; and a second program selection table 152 for use when two of the nine sites are selected as the site of muscle stiffness (excluding cases where more than three sites are selected).

[0148] In this embodiment, when three or more of the nine areas are selected as muscle stiffness areas, the "whole body / extreme fatigue recovery program" is usually selected as the massage program. Therefore, a table for cases where three or more areas are selected as muscle stiffness areas is not prepared.

[0149] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the first procedure selecting the contents of table 151.

[0150] The first program selection table 151 stores massage programs suitable for each stiff muscle area. Figure 11 The example stores a neck-focused massage program that concentrates on massaging the neck / shoulder. In other words, when only the neck / shoulder is selected as the area of ​​muscle stiffness, the neck-focused massage program will be selected as the massage program.

[0151] In the concentrated neck massage program, a mechanical massage is performed using the treatment component 51. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate in the neck area based on the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby providing a concentrated neck massage. As massage actions, for example, kneading and patting actions are performed alternately at given intervals. Furthermore, the intensity is adjusted by rotating the advance-retreat axis 52, causing the treatment component drive component 50 to advance and retreat in the front-back direction.

[0152] For the back, there is a stored scapula-focused massage program that concentrates on massaging the scapulae. In other words, if only the back is selected as the area with stiff muscles, the scapula-focused massage program that concentrates on massaging the scapulae will be selected as the massage program.

[0153] In the scapular focused massage program, a mechanical massage is performed using the treatment component 51. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate in the scapular region based on the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby focusing the massage on the scapula. As massage actions, for example, kneading and patting actions are performed alternately at given intervals. Furthermore, the intensity is adjusted by rotating the advance-retreat axis 52, causing the treatment component drive component 50 to advance and retreat in the forward-backward direction.

[0154] For the lower back, there is a stored program that focuses on massaging the lower back. In other words, if only the lower back is selected as the area with stiff muscles, the program that focuses on massaging the lower back will be selected as the massage program.

[0155] In the lumbar intensive massage program, a mechanical massage is performed using the treatment component 51. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate in the lumbar region based on the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby intensively massaging the lumbar region. As massage actions, for example, kneading and patting actions are performed alternately at given intervals. Furthermore, the intensity is adjusted by rotating the advance-retreat axis 52, causing the treatment component drive component 50 to advance and retreat in the forward-backward direction.

[0156] For the buttocks, there is a stored ischial concentration massage program that focuses on massaging the ischial tuberosities. In other words, if only the buttocks are selected as the area of ​​muscle stiffness, the ischial concentration massage program that focuses on massaging the ischial tuberosities will be selected as the massage program.

[0157] In the concentrated sciatic massage program, mechanical massage using the treatment component 51 and gas massage using the thigh airbag 32 are performed. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate in the sciatic region according to the lifting position sensor 48, thereby focusing the massage on the sciatic region. As massage actions, for example, kneading and patting actions are performed alternately at given intervals. In addition, the intensity is adjusted by rotating the advance-retreat axis 52, which drives the treatment component 50 to move forward and backward in the front-back direction. Furthermore, the expansion and contraction of the thigh airbag 32 based on air supply and decompression are repeated at fixed cycles.

[0158] A gas massage program is stored for the upper arm. That is, when only the upper arm is selected as a site of muscle stiffness, a massage program that focuses on massaging the upper arm is selected. The upper arm gas massage program is a massage program where settings for other areas are turned off in a normal gas massage program. Specifically, it repeats the expansion and contraction of the air bladder 31 for the upper arm at a fixed cycle.

[0159] A forearm gas massage program is stored. That is, when only the forearm is selected as a stiff muscle area, a forearm massage program that focuses on massaging the forearm is selected. The forearm gas massage program is a massage program where settings for other areas are turned off in a normal gas massage program. Specifically, it repeats the expansion and contraction of the air bladder 33 in the forearm at a fixed cycle.

[0160] A thigh gas massage program is stored for the thighs. That is, when only the thighs are selected as the area of ​​muscle stiffness, a thigh massage program is selected that focuses on massaging the thighs. The thigh gas massage program is a massage program where settings for other areas are turned off in a normal gas massage program. Specifically, it repeats the expansion and contraction of the air bladder 32 for the thighs based on air supply and decompression at a fixed cycle.

[0161] A calf gas massage program is stored. This means that when only the calf muscles are selected as a stiff area, a calf massage program is selected that focuses on massaging the calf muscles. The calf gas massage program is a massage program where settings for other areas are turned off in a normal gas massage program. Specifically, it repeats the expansion and contraction of the airbag 34 used to inflate and deflate the calf muscles at fixed intervals.

[0162] A foot gas massage program is stored for the soles of the feet. That is, when only the soles of the feet are selected as the area of ​​muscle stiffness, a foot massage program that focuses on massaging the soles is selected. The foot gas massage program is a massage program where settings for other areas are turned off in a normal gas massage program. Specifically, it repeats the expansion and contraction of air in the foot airbag 35 at a fixed cycle.

[0163] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the second procedure selecting the contents of table 152.

[0164] In the second program selection table 152, the combination of the two selected parts and the massage program corresponding to the combination are stored.

[0165] A "neck / shoulder comfort program" is stored for the combination of neck / shoulder and back. In the neck / shoulder comfort program, mechanical massage using the treatment component 51 and gas massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate primarily in the neck / shoulder area based on the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby performing a neck / shoulder-centered massage. Massage actions include, for example, alternating kneading and patting motions at given intervals.

[0166] In the neck / shoulder comfort program (and similarly in the full-body / comfort program and lumbar comfort program described later), the kneading and patting movements of the kneading ball are characterized by a slower, more soothing massage compared to the fatigue recovery programs described later (lumbar / fatigue recovery program and full-body / fatigue recovery program). Furthermore, in the neck / shoulder comfort program, the expansion and contraction of air-filled airbags 31 (upper arm), 32 (thigh), 33 (forearm), 34 (calf), and 35 (foot) are repeated at fixed intervals.

[0167] A "lumbar / fatigue recovery program" is stored for the combination of neck / shoulder and lumbar. In the lumbar / fatigue recovery program, mechanical massage using the treatment component 51 and gas massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate primarily in the lumbar region based on the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby performing a lumbar-centered massage. Massage actions include, for example, alternating kneading and patting movements at given intervals. Furthermore, the inflation and deflation of airbags 31 (upper arm), 32 (thigh), 33 (forearm), 34 (calf), and 35 (foot) are repeated at fixed intervals.

[0168] A "full-body / fatigue recovery program" is stored for the neck / shoulder and hip combination. In this program, mechanical massage using the treatment component 51 and gas massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate from the neck / shoulder area to the ischium area based on the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby providing a massage to the entire area where the massage component 23 can move. Massage actions include, for example, alternating kneading and patting motions at given intervals. Furthermore, the inflation and deflation of airbags 31 (upper arm), 32 (thigh), 33 (forearm), 34 (calf), and 35 (foot) are repeated at fixed intervals.

[0169] A "full body / comfort program" is stored for the neck / shoulder and upper arm combination. In the full body / comfort program, mechanical massage using the treatment component 51 and gas massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate from the neck / shoulder area to the ischium area according to the lifting position sensor 48, thereby massaging the entire area where the massage component can move. Massage actions include, for example, alternating kneading and patting movements at given intervals. Furthermore, the inflation and deflation of airbags 31 (upper arm), 32 (thigh), 33 (forearm), 34 (calf), and 35 (foot) are repeated at fixed intervals.

[0170] There is a "Full Body / Comfort Program" stored for the neck / shoulder and thigh combination. There is a "Full Body / Comfort Program" stored for the neck / shoulder and calf combination. There is a "Full Body / Fatigue Recovery Program" stored for the neck / shoulder and foot combination.

[0171] A "lumbar / comfort program" is stored for the combination of back and waist. In the lumbar / comfort program, mechanical massage using the treatment component 51 and gas massage using airbags are performed. Specifically, the massage component 23 is controlled to reciprocate mainly in the waist area according to the output of the lifting position sensor 48, thereby performing a waist-centered massage. As massage actions, for example, kneading and patting actions are alternately performed at given intervals. In addition, the expansion and contraction of air supply and decompression based on air supply and decompression of the upper arm airbag 31, thigh airbag 32, forearm airbag 33, calf airbag 34, and foot airbag 35 are repeated at fixed cycles.

[0172] For the back and hips combination, there is a stored "Full Body / Fatigue Recovery Program". For the back and upper arms combination, there is a stored "Full Body / Comfort Program". For the back and forearms combination, there is a stored "Full Body / Comfort Program".

[0173] For the back and thighs combination, there is a "Full Body / Comfort Program". For the back and calves combination, there is a "Full Body / Comfort Program". For the back and feet combination, there is a "Full Body / Fatigue Recovery Program".

[0174] For the waist and hips combination, there is a stored "Waist / Fatigue Recovery Program". For the waist and upper arm combination, there is a stored "Full Body / Comfort Program". For the waist and forearm combination, there is a stored "Full Body / Comfort Program".

[0175] For the waist and thigh combination, there is a "full body / comfort program". For the waist and calf combination, there is a "full body / comfort program". For the waist and foot combination, there is a "full body / fatigue recovery program".

[0176] A "full-body gas program" is stored for the combination of the buttocks and upper arms. This program features a gas-based massage using airbags. Specifically, it repeats the expansion and contraction of airbags 31 (upper arm), 32 (thigh), 33 (forearm), 34 (calf), and 35 (foot) at fixed intervals. Mechanical massage is not performed in this program.

[0177] A "Full Body Gas Program" is stored for the combination of hips and forearms. A "Full Body Gas Program" is stored for the combination of hips and thighs. A "Full Body Gas Program" is stored for the combination of hips and calves. A "Full Body / Comfort Program" is stored for the combination of hips and feet.

[0178] A "Full Body Gas Program" is stored for the combination of upper arm and forearm. A "Full Body Gas Program" is stored for the combination of upper arm and thigh. A "Full Body Gas Program" is stored for the combination of upper arm and calf. A "Full Body / Comfort Program" is stored for the combination of upper arm and foot.

[0179] For the combination of forearm and thigh, there is a "full-body gas program". For the combination of forearm and calf, there is a "full-body gas program". For the combination of forearm and foot, there is a "full-body / comfort program".

[0180] There is a "Full Body Gas Program" stored for the combination of thighs and calves. There is a "Full Body / Comfort Program" stored for the combination of thighs and feet. There is a "Full Body / Comfort Program" stored for the combination of calves and feet.

[0181] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the contents of a color density-intensity transformation table.

[0182] In this embodiment, the massage intensity is configured to be adjustable in five levels, from weak to strong, namely 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

[0183] exist Figure 13 In the example, for color concentration 0, 2 is stored as its corresponding massage intensity. For color concentration 1, 3 is stored as its corresponding massage intensity. For color concentration 2, 4 is stored as its corresponding massage intensity. For color concentration 3, 5 is stored as its corresponding massage intensity.

[0184] When a massage program is selected according to Table 151 in the first procedure, the massage intensity corresponding to the massage program is set to the intensity corresponding to the color concentration of the selected area as the muscle stiffness area.

[0185] When a massage program is selected according to Table 152 in the second procedure, or when three or more areas are entered as areas of muscle stiffness, the massage intensity corresponding to the massage program is set to the intensity corresponding to the color density of the area selected as an area of ​​muscle stiffness; and the intensity is set to 3 for areas other than those selected as areas of muscle stiffness.

[0186] Figure 14A , Figure 14B as well as Figure 14C This is a flowchart illustrating the process executed by the control unit 90 of the portable terminal 3 when the human body map mode is selected in the main screen of the massage application.

[0187] In the following explanation, j is a variable representing a body part. The relationship between the value of j and the corresponding body part is as follows.

[0188] j=1: Neck / Shoulder

[0189] j=2: Back

[0190] j=3: waist

[0191] j=4: Hips

[0192] j=5: Upper arm

[0193] j=6: Forearm

[0194] j=7: Thigh

[0195] j=8: Calf muscle

[0196] j=9: Foot

[0197] In addition, n j It is a variable representing the color concentration (color) of part j.

[0198] Separately, n j =0 represents white; n j =1 represents light blue; n j =2 represents blue; n j =3 represents dark blue.

[0199] If the Human Body Map mode is selected on the main screen of the application (step S1), the control unit 90 sets n1 to n9 to 0 (step S2).

[0200] Next, the control unit 90 displays the human body map screen (refer to...) Figure 8B The display is shown on the operation display unit 103 (see reference). Figure 5 (Step S3).

[0201] Next, the control unit 90 monitors whether the finger has touched the human body map display area E2 (step S4); OK button 142 ( Figure 8B ) Was it clicked (step S5); Reset button 143 ( Figure 8B Whether it was clicked (step S6).

[0202] If it is determined that a finger has touched the human body map display area E2 (step S4: Yes), the control unit 90 applies a first color to the finger-touching area on the human body map display area E2 and to the area symmetrical to the finger-touching area relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map 141 (step S7). Thus, the movement trajectory of the finger on the human body map display area E2 (including the symmetrical area) is painted using the first color.

[0203] Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the area covered by the first color in the area mainly coated with the first color (hereinafter referred to as the "area divided by area of ​​interest") reaches more than 60% of the area divided by area of ​​interest (step S8).

[0204] If the area covered by the first color does not reach more than 60% of the area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S8: No), the control unit 90 determines whether the finger has left the human body map display area E2 (step S9). If the finger has not left the human body map display area E2 (step S9: No), the control unit 90 returns to step S7.

[0205] If it is determined in step S9 that the finger has left the human body map display area E2 (step S9: Yes), the control unit 90 will proceed to step S4 after the first color is removed (step S10).

[0206] When the area of ​​the first color within the region distinguished by the region of interest, as determined in step S8, reaches 60% or more of the region distinguished by the region of interest (step S8: Yes), the control unit 90 adjusts the color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the region of interest. j Increase by 1 (step S11). However, the color concentration n after increasing by 1... j When the value is 4 or higher, the color concentration n j It is set to 3. In other words, the color concentration n in the region corresponding to the area distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j With the color density n already set to 3, j No increase.

[0207] Next, the control unit 90 determines whether the finger has left the human body map display area E2 (step S12). If the finger has not left the human body map display area E2 (step S12: No), the control unit 90 applies the first color to the finger contact area on the human body map display area E2 and to the area symmetrical to the finger contact area line relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map 141 (step S13). Then, the control unit 90 returns to step S12.

[0208] When it is determined in step S12 that the finger has left the human body map display area E21 (step S12: Yes), the control unit 90 removes the first color and colors the areas distinguished by the area of ​​interest to a color concentration n. j The corresponding second color (step S14). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S4.

[0209] If it is determined in step S4 that the finger is not in contact with the human body map display area E2 (step S4: no), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S5.

[0210] In step S5, the control unit 90 determines the OK button 142 (refer to...). Figure 8B If the OK button 142 has not been clicked (step S5: No), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S6. In step S6, the control unit 90 determines whether the reset button 143 (see reference) has been clicked. Figure 8B Has it been clicked?

[0211] If the reset button 143 is not clicked (step S6: No), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S4. If it is determined in step S6 that the reset button 143 has been clicked (step S6: Yes), the control unit 90 sets n1 to n9 to 0 and restores the entire human body map to white (step S15). Then, the control unit 90 returns to step S4.

[0212] Figure 15A , Figure 15B as well as Figure 15C The image shows an example of a human body map 141 in which colors representing the location and degree of muscle stiffness have been applied through the aforementioned processing. Figure 15A In the example, only the neck / shoulder area is painted with dark blue. Figure 15B In the example, dark blue is applied to the neck / shoulder and blue to the upper arms. Figure 15C In the example, dark blue was applied to the neck / shoulder and calves, blue to the upper arms, and light blue to the back.

[0213] If it is determined in step S5 that the OK button 142 has been clicked (step S5: Yes), the control unit 90 displays the concentration display screen (see reference). Figure 10A (Step S16). Specifically, the control unit 90 adjusts the color concentration n of each part. j (j = 1, 2, ..., 8, 9) are used for numerical display.

[0214] Next, the control unit 90 monitors whether the analysis button 144 on the concentration display screen has been clicked (step S17) or whether the return button 145 on the concentration display screen has been clicked (step S18). If the return button 145 has been clicked (step S18: Yes), the control unit 90 displays a human body map screen before the concentration display screen is to be displayed (step S19). Then, the control unit 90 proceeds to step S4.

[0215] If the parsing button 144 is clicked (step S17: Yes), the control unit 90 determines the color concentration n of each part.j This determines the appropriate massage program and intensity for each area based on the muscle stiffness location and condition input in the human body map screen (step S20).

[0216] Specifically, when the second color is applied to only one area, the control unit 90 determines the massage program based on that area and the first program selection table 151. Furthermore, the control unit 90 determines the massage program based on the color concentration n of the area where the second color is applied. j The massage intensity for that area is determined using the color density / intensity conversion table 153. Control unit 90 sets 2 as the area (n) where the second color is not applied. j Massage intensity (for areas where the intensity is 0).

[0217] When the second color is applied to two areas (excluding cases where the second color is applied to three or more areas), the control unit 90 determines the massage program based on the two areas and the second program selection table 152. Furthermore, the control unit 90 determines the massage program based on the color concentration n of the two areas where the second color is applied. j The massage intensity for the two areas is determined using the color density / intensity conversion table 153. Control unit 90 sets 2 as the area (n) where the second color is not applied. j Massage intensity (for areas where the intensity is 0).

[0218] When the second color is applied to three or more areas, the control unit 90 determines the full-body / extreme fatigue recovery program as a massage program. Furthermore, the control unit 90 adjusts the program based on the color concentration n of each area where the second color is applied. j The massage intensity for each area is determined using the color density / intensity conversion table 153. Control unit 90 sets 2 as the area (n) where the second color is not applied. j Massage intensity (for areas where the intensity is 0).

[0219] Then, the control unit 903 displays a resolution result screen including the name of the massage program determined in step S18 (see reference). Figure 10B (Step S21).

[0220] Afterwards, if the massage start button 146 on the analysis result screen is clicked (step S22: Yes), the control unit 903 sends the massage program and massage intensity of each part determined in step S20 to the massage machine 2 (step S23). If the massage machine 2 receives the massage program and massage intensity of each part from the portable terminal 3, it performs the massage according to the received massage program and massage intensity of each part.

[0221] According to the aforementioned embodiments, users can easily input the location and degree of muscle stiffness. Furthermore, according to the aforementioned embodiments, a massage tailored to the user's specific location and degree of muscle stiffness can be performed.

[0222] [6] Variations

[0223] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention; however, the present invention can also be implemented in other ways.

[0224] In the aforementioned embodiment, multiple second colors with varying concentrations depending on the degree of muscle stiffness were prepared as the second color. However, multiple second colors with different colors (e.g., hue) depending on the degree of muscle stiffness can also be prepared as the second color. In this case, in the aforementioned... Figures 14A-14C In the flowchart, n j This can be replaced with a variable representing the type of color for part j. For example, muscle stiffness can be divided into four levels, with level 1 set to white, level 2 to green, level 3 to blue, and level 4 to red. In this case, respectively, n j =0 represents white, n j =1 represents green, n j =2 represents blue, n j =3 indicates red.

[0225] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, the location and degree of muscle stiffness are determined based on the area of ​​contact movement of the user's finger on the human body map 141 and its area. However, other methods can also be used to determine the location and degree of muscle stiffness. Hereinafter, variations 1 to 3 of the method for determining the location and degree of muscle stiffness will be described.

[0226] [6.1] Variation Example 1

[0227] In Modification 1, the control unit 90 determines the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the contact position of the finger with the body map 141 and the duration of contact. Specifically, the user contacts the area on the body map 141 with high fatigue (muscle stiffness). The higher the degree of muscle stiffness, the longer the user contacts the area. The control unit 90 applies color to the entire area being contacted by the finger. The control unit 90 then determines the color intensity based on the duration of contact. Here, the color intensity is represented by four levels: 0, 1, 2, and 3, from lowest to highest. For example, level 0 is white, level 1 is light blue, level 2 is blue, and level 3 is dark blue.

[0228] The relationship between the duration of finger contact T (seconds) and the concentration level is as follows.

[0229] If T = 0 seconds, then the concentration = 0.

[0230] If 0 seconds < T ≤ 2 seconds, then the concentration = 1.

[0231] If 2 seconds < T ≤ 4 seconds, then the concentration = 2.

[0232] If T > 4 seconds, then the concentration = 3.

[0233] In applying variation 1, after the aforementioned Figure 14A , Figure 14B as well as Figure 14C In the process shown, Figure 14B The process shown is replaced with Figure 16 The process is shown above. Figure 14A as well as Figure 14C The process shown is essentially applied directly. However, in the aforementioned... Figure 14A In step S4, it is determined whether "the finger has touched the human body map display area E2". However, in the case of applying variation 1, in Figure 14A In step S4, it is determined whether "the finger has touched the human body map 141".

[0234] That is, in the case where it is determined that the finger has touched the human body map 141 ( Figure 14A Step S4: Yes), the control unit 90 starts the timer used to time the contact duration T (step S31).

[0235] Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the contact duration T is within the range of 0 seconds < T ≤ 2 seconds (step S32). If the contact duration T is within the range of 0 seconds < T ≤ 2 seconds (step S32: Yes), the control unit 90 assigns the color concentration n corresponding to the area being contacted by the finger (hereinafter referred to as "area distinguished by area of ​​interest"). j Set to 1, and apply light blue to the entire area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S33). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S37.

[0236] If it is determined in step S32 that the contact duration T is outside the range of 0 seconds < T ≤ 2 seconds (step S32: No), the control unit 90 determines whether the contact duration T is within the range of 2 seconds < T ≤ 4 seconds (step S34).

[0237] When the contact duration T is within the range of 2 seconds < T ≤ 4 seconds (step S34: Yes), the control unit 90 will adjust the color concentration n corresponding to the area distinguished by the area of ​​interest. jThe setting is 2, and blue is applied to the entire area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S35). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S37.

[0238] When it is determined in step S34 that the contact duration T is outside the range of 2 seconds < T ≤ 4 seconds, that is, when it is determined that the contact duration T is longer than 4 seconds (step S34: No), the control unit 90 will adjust the color concentration n corresponding to the area distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j Set to 3, and apply dark blue to the entire area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S36). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S37.

[0239] In step S37, the control unit 90 determines whether the finger has left the human body map 141. If the finger has not left the human body map 141 (step S37: no), the control unit 90 returns to step S32.

[0240] If it is determined in step S37 that the finger has left the human body map 141 (step S37: Yes), the control unit 90 resets and stops the timer used to count the contact duration T (step S38). Then, the control unit 90 returns to... Figure 14A Step S4.

[0241] [6.2] Variation Example 2

[0242] In Modification 2, the control unit 90 determines the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the pressing position (contact position) and pressure (click intensity) of the finger on the human body map 141. In this case, a pressure sensor that detects the pressure of the finger on the display screen of the operation display unit 103 is provided on the portable terminal 3, and the pressure of the finger on the human body map 141 is detected by the pressure sensor.

[0243] The user applies pressure by touching and pressing areas of high fatigue (muscle stiffness) on the human body map 141. The higher the muscle stiffness, the stronger the pressure applied by the user. The control unit 90 applies color to the entire area being touched by the finger. The control unit 90 then determines the color intensity based on the pressure applied by the finger. Here, the color intensity is represented by four levels: 0, 1, 2, and 3, from lowest to highest. For example, level 0 is white, level 1 is light blue, level 2 is blue, and level 3 is dark blue.

[0244] The relationship between finger pressure F and concentration level is as follows. Wherein, F1 < F2.

[0245] If F = 0, then concentration = 0.

[0246] If 0 < F ≤ F1 (F: pressure at the level of finger touch), then concentration = 1.

[0247] If F1 < F ≤ F2 (F: pressure equivalent to a light press), then the concentration = 2.

[0248] If F > F2 (F: the pressure applied when pressing), then the concentration = 3.

[0249] In applying variation 2, after the aforementioned Figure 14A , Figure 14B as well as Figure 14C In the process shown, Figure 14B The process shown is replaced with Figure 17 The process is shown above. Figure 14A as well as Figure 14C The process shown is essentially applied directly. However, in the aforementioned... Figure 14A In step S4, it is determined whether "the finger has touched the human body map display area E2". However, in the case of applying variation example 2, in Figure 14A In step S4, it is determined whether "the finger has touched the human body map 141".

[0250] That is, in the case where it is determined that the finger has touched the human body map 141 ( Figure 14A Step S4: Yes), the control unit 90 detects the pressing pressure F of the finger on the human body map 141 (step S41). Then, the control unit 90 determines whether the pressing pressure F is within the range of 0 < F ≤ F1 (step S42).

[0251] When the pressing pressure F is within the range of 0 < F ≤ F1 (step S42: Yes), the control unit 90 determines the color concentration n corresponding to the area (hereinafter referred to as "area distinguished by area of ​​interest") that the finger is contacting. j Is it less than 1 (step S43)? The color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j If the value is less than 1 (step S43: Yes), the control unit 90 will adjust the color concentration n. j Set to 1, and apply light blue to the entire area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S44). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S50.

[0252] If, in step S43, it is determined that the color concentration nj corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest is 1 or more (step S43: No), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S50.

[0253] If it is determined in step S42 that the pressing force F is outside the range of 0 < F ≤ F1 (step S42: No), the control unit 90 determines whether the pressing force F is within the range of F1 < F ≤ F2 (step S45).

[0254] When the pressing pressure F is within the range of F1 < F ≤ F2 (step S45: Yes), the control unit 90 determines the color concentration n corresponding to the area distinguished by pressing the area of ​​interest. j Is it less than 2 (step S46)? The color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j If the value is less than 2 (step S46: Yes), the control unit 90 will adjust the color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j The setting is 2, and blue is applied to the entire area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S47). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S50.

[0255] When in step S46, the color concentration n corresponding to the region identified as the area of ​​interest is determined. j If the value is 2 or higher (step S46: No), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S50.

[0256] If, in step S45, it is determined that the pressing force F is outside the range of 0 < F ≤ F2, that is, if it is determined that the pressing force F is greater than F2 (step S45: No), the control unit 90 determines the color concentration n corresponding to the area distinguished by the pressing point of interest. j Is it less than 3 (step S48)? The color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j If the value is less than 3 (step S48: Yes), the control unit 90 will adjust the color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j The setting is 3, and a dark blue color is applied to the entire area distinguished by the area of ​​interest (step S49). Then, the control unit 90 moves to step S50.

[0257] When the color concentration n corresponding to the region identified as the area of ​​interest in step S48 is determined... j If the result is 3 or higher (step S49: No), the control unit 90 proceeds to step S50. In step S50, the control unit 90 determines whether the finger has left the human body map 141. If the finger has not left the human body map 141 (step S50: No), the control unit 90 returns to step S41. If it is determined in step S50 that the finger has left the human body map 141 (step S50: Yes), the control unit 90 returns to... Figure 14A Step S4.

[0258] [6.3] Variation Example 3

[0259] In Modification 3, the control unit 90 determines the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the finger's contact position on the human body map 141 (hereinafter referred to as the "click position") and the number of contactes (hereinafter referred to as the "number of clicks"). Specifically, the user clicks on the human body map 141 on areas with high fatigue (muscle stiffness). The higher the degree of muscle stiffness, the more times the user clicks. The control unit 90 colors the entire area being touched by the finger. At this time, the control unit 90 determines the color intensity based on the number of clicks. Here, the color intensity is set to be represented by four levels: 0, 1, 2, and 3, in ascending order of intensity. For example, level 0 is white, level 1 is light blue, level 2 is blue, and level 3 is dark blue.

[0260] The relationship between the number of clicks K and the concentration level is as follows.

[0261] If K = 0, then concentration = 0.

[0262] If K = 1, then concentration = 1

[0263] If K = 2, then the concentration = 2.

[0264] If K ≥ 3, then concentration = 3

[0265] In applying variation 3, after the aforementioned Figure 14A , Figure 14B as well as Figure 14C In the process shown, Figure 14A as well as Figure 14B The process shown is replaced with Figure 18 The process is shown. In Figure 18 In the middle, regarding the aforementioned Figure 14A The steps of each part are the same, and are assigned to the same Figure 14A The same symbols are used to represent them.

[0266] In addition, the aforementioned Figure 14C The process shown is basically applied directly. However, when in Figure 14C In step S19, if the human body map screen is displayed before the concentration display screen is displayed, the control unit 90 switches to... Figure 18 Step S51.

[0267] That is, refer to Figure 18 If the human body map mode is selected on the main screen of the application (step S1), the control unit 90 sets n1 to n9 to 0 (step S2).

[0268] Next, the control unit 90 displays the human body map screen (refer to...) Figure 8B The operation display unit 103 is displayed (step S3).

[0269] Next, the control unit 90 monitors whether the human body map 141 has been clicked (step S51); whether the OK button 142 has been clicked (step S5); and whether the reset button 143 has been clicked (step S6).

[0270] When the human body map 141 is clicked (step S61: Yes), the control unit 90 determines the color density n corresponding to the clicked area (hereinafter referred to as the area distinguished by the area of ​​interest). j Is it less than 3 (step S62)?

[0271] If the color concentration n corresponds to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest j If the value is less than 3 (step S62: Yes), then the color concentration n corresponding to the region distinguished by the area of ​​interest is increased. j Add 1 (step S63). Then, the control unit 90 colors the areas distinguished by the area of ​​interest with a color concentration n. j The corresponding color (step S64). After that, the control unit 90 returns to step S61.

[0272] In step S62, the color concentration n is determined to be the region corresponding to the area distinguished by the area of ​​interest. j If the value is 3 or higher (step S62: No), the control unit 90 returns to step S61.

[0273] The actions of the control unit 90 when it is determined in step S5 that the OK button 142 has been clicked, and the actions of the control unit 90 when it is determined in step S6 that the reset button 143 has been clicked, are related to... Figures 14A-14C The operation of the control unit 90 shown in the figure is the same.

[0274] [6.4] Other

[0275] In the aforementioned implementation method, in the human body map screen (refer to...) Figure 8B The device contains an OK button 142 and a reset button 143; however, as shown in the image... Figure 8B As shown by the dashed line 147, a cancel button can also be provided. The cancel button 147 is a button that cancels the operation that was just performed. For example, if the cancel button 147 is clicked immediately after a second color of a given concentration has been applied to a certain area by moving a finger, the application of the second color of that given concentration to that area is canceled, and the color of that area is restored to the color before the second color of that given concentration was applied.

[0276] With the cancellation button 147 set up, the reset button 143 can also be omitted.

[0277] In addition, such as in Figure 8BAs shown in Figure 148 using a single-dot dashed line, it can also be displayed in the human body map (see Figure 148). Figure 8B The settings in the concentration display screen are as follows: Figure 10A The same parsing button 144 is used on the portable terminal 3. If this parsing button 148 is clicked, the portable terminal 3 determines the appropriate massage program based on the muscle stiffness location and condition input through the human body map screen, and displays the following: Figure 10B The analysis results screen shown is shown below.

[0278] In the aforementioned embodiment, the portable terminal 3 includes a muscle stiffness input unit 92 for the user to input the location and condition of the stiff muscles; and a program determination unit 93 for determining a massage program suitable for the input location and condition of the stiff muscles. However, the server 4 may also include the functions performed by the program determination unit 93. In this case, the first program selection table 151, the second program selection table 152, and the color density / intensity change table 153 are stored on the server 4 side.

[0279] In this case, the information on the location and condition of muscle stiffness input at the muscle stiffness input unit 92 is sent from the portable terminal 3 to the server 4. Based on the received information on the location and condition of muscle stiffness and the tables 151, 152, and 153, the server 4 determines a suitable massage program and massage intensity for each area, and sends this information to the portable terminal 3. The portable terminal 3 then sends the received massage program and massage intensity to the massage machine 2.

[0280] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiment, the left and right pair of foot-receiving recesses 19 (see reference) Figure 2 The bottom surface of the foot is provided with foot-side airbags 35c and 35d for pressing the sole of the foot upwards. However, instead of foot-side airbags 35c and 35d, foot wheels can be set up to massage the sole of the foot and are driven to rotate.

[0281] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, the portable terminal 3 is a smartphone; however, the portable terminal 3 can also be a computer such as a tablet computer.

[0282] Furthermore, in the aforementioned embodiments, the massage machine 2 is a chair-type massage machine; however, the massage machine 2 can also be a massage machine other than a chair-type massage machine.

[0283] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, these are merely specific examples used to clarify the technical content of the present invention. The present invention should not be limited to these specific examples, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims.

[0284] This application corresponds to Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-207283, filed with the Japan Patent Office on November 15, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A massage system, comprising: The muscle stiffness input unit is used to display a human body map in a human body map display area in a touch panel type display unit, which is a region divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the range of each of a number of pre-defined body parts, and to receive, from the user, at least the muscle stiffness location and the degree of muscle stiffness on the human body map display area. The program decision unit determines a massage program corresponding to at least the muscle stiffness location and degree of muscle stiffness received through the muscle stiffness input unit. as well as The massage machine control unit is used to cause the massage machine to execute the massage program determined by the program determination unit. The muscle stiffness input unit identifies regions on the human body map display area that are distinguished by body part by the user and regions that are symmetrical to the lines of the regions distinguished by body part relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map, as the muscle stiffness locations accepted by the user.

2. The massage system according to claim 1, wherein, The massage system includes a portable terminal capable of communicating with the massage machine control unit. The muscle stiffness input unit is configured such that a human body map, which is a region divided by body part and depicts the range of multiple pre-defined body parts in a recognizable manner, is displayed in the human body map display area of ​​the touch panel display unit, and the user can input the location and degree of muscle stiffness in the human body map display area. The portable terminal includes the muscle stiffness input unit and the program decision unit.

3. The massage system according to claim 1, wherein, The muscle stiffness input unit is configured to display a human body map in a human body map display area of ​​a touch panel display unit. The map map is divided into regions representing the ranges of multiple pre-defined body parts in a recognizable manner. The user can input the location and degree of muscle stiffness in the human body map display area. The muscle stiffness input unit determines the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the area and size of the user's contact movement on the human body map.

4. The massage system according to claim 1 or 3, wherein, The muscle stiffness input unit is configured such that a human body map, which is a region divided by body part and depicts the range of multiple pre-defined body parts in a recognizable manner, is displayed in the human body map display area of ​​the touch panel display unit, and the user can input the location and degree of muscle stiffness in the human body map display area. The muscle stiffness input unit includes a unit for applying a first color to regions on the human body map display area that are distinguished by body parts as specified by the user, and to regions that are distinguished by body parts and are symmetrical to the lines of the regions distinguished by body parts relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map.

5. The massage system according to claim 3, wherein, The muscle stiffness input unit includes: Unit 1, from the moment the user's body comes into contact with the human body map display area until the body leaves the human body map display area, applies a first color to the body contact area and the area symmetrical to the body contact area line relative to the left and right center lines of the human body map; and In Unit 2, if the area of ​​the first color applied to the part-specific region (i.e., the region-specific region of interest) is at least a given value relative to the part-specific region of interest until the body leaves the human body map display area, then when the body leaves the human body map display area, the first color is removed, and a second color representing the location and degree of muscle stiffness is applied to the entire part-specific region of interest.

6. The massage system according to claim 5, wherein, As the second color, various second colors with different concentrations are prepared according to the degree of muscle stiffness. The second unit is configured such that, when the second color is to be applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest, if the concentration of the currently applied second color is not the concentration representing the highest level of muscle stiffness, a second color with a concentration representing a higher level of muscle stiffness than the concentration of the currently applied second color is applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest.

7. The massage system according to claim 5, wherein, As the second color, a variety of second colors are prepared, each with a different color depending on the degree of muscle stiffness. The second unit is configured such that, when the second color is to be applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest, if the second color has already been applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest, and if the color of the currently applied second color does not represent the highest degree of muscle stiffness, a second color representing a higher degree of muscle stiffness than the currently applied second color is applied to the entire area distinguished by the region of interest.

8. The massage system according to claim 1 or 3, wherein, The muscle stiffness input unit is configured to display a human body map on a touch panel display unit, which depicts areas divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the range of each of a number of pre-defined body parts, and to determine the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the user's contact position and contact duration with the human body map.

9. The massage system according to claim 1 or 3, wherein, The muscle stiffness input unit is configured to display a human body map on a touch panel display unit, which depicts areas divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the range of each of a number of pre-defined body parts, and to determine the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the user's pressing position and pressure on the human body map.

10. The massage system according to claim 1 or 3, wherein, The muscle stiffness input unit is configured to display a human body map on a touch panel display unit, which depicts areas divided by body parts in a recognizable manner, representing the range of each of a number of pre-defined body parts, and to determine the location and degree of muscle stiffness based on the user's click position and number of clicks on the human body map.

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