Current stimulation device

Abstract

The present invention provides an electric current stimulation device. The therapeutic efficiency of the electric current stimulation device is improved. In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention takes the following measures. That is, the electric current stimulation device of the present invention is characterized in that it comprises: a waveform generating unit that outputs an electric signal; a control unit that controls the above-mentioned waveform generating unit; a group of electrodes for supplying the above-mentioned output electric signal; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the above-mentioned waveform generating unit and the above-mentioned control unit, wherein the above-mentioned electric signal is a fifth electric signal composed of a first electric signal, a second electric signal, a third electric signal and a fourth electric signal, wherein the amplitude of the above-mentioned first electric signal increases from a first amplitude that is not zero, the above-mentioned second electric signal is an electric signal output after the above-mentioned first electric signal and has a second amplitude, the above-mentioned third electric signal is an electric signal output after the above-mentioned second electric signal and its amplitude decreases to become a third amplitude, and the above-mentioned fourth electric signal has a fourth amplitude that is not zero.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electric current stimulation device used for transcutaneous electrical stimulation for purposes such as treatment, rehabilitation, examination, massage, physical condition management, fatigue recovery, injury prevention, care of muscles and joints after exercise, or beauty. Background Art

[0002] Physical therapies, which use ultrashort waves, microwaves, and other electromagnetic waves, low-frequency or high-frequency currents, potential therapy, weak current therapy, or ultrasound therapy to deliver physical energy to the affected area or other necessary parts to perform treatment, massage, diagnosis, training, or cosmetic surgery, are attracting attention, and many medical devices, diagnostic devices, training devices, and cosmetic devices that implement these physical therapies have already been put into practical use. In this specification, physical energy used for treatment, cosmetic surgery, or diagnosis, such as current, voltage, or sine waves, pulses, or impulses with low-frequency or high-frequency AC components or frequency components, are collectively or individually referred to as electrical signals or pulses. Furthermore, they may also be referred to as therapeutic waves, electrical stimulation, or electrical signals. Furthermore, electrical signals or pulses can be pulse trains based on rectangular pulses, pulse trains based on composite pulses, or sine waves, triangle waves, sawtooth waves, or impulse trains. Furthermore, a composite wave generated by the interaction of multiple pulses is simply referred to as an electrical signal or pulse, and a composite wave generated from a sine wave is simply referred to as an electrical signal or pulse.

[0003] Hereinafter, in this specification, therapeutic devices, medical equipment, massagers, diagnostic devices, training equipment, equipment for physical condition management, fatigue recovery, etc., and beauty equipment that use electrical stimulation will be collectively referred to as electric current stimulation devices. The acts of administering electric stimulation through the skin, such as treatment, diagnosis, massage, physical condition management, or surgery using a beauty device, using an electric current stimulation device will be referred to individually or collectively as treatment. The person using the electric current stimulation device, such as the person performing treatment, the person performing massage, the person performing diagnosis using the electric current stimulation device, or the person performing cosmetic surgery using the electric current stimulation device, will be referred to as the user, and the person receiving the treatment will be referred to as the patient. Furthermore, the part of the human body to which electric stimulation is given or to which treatment is performed will be referred to as the affected part. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, the description of an electric current stimulation device does not exclude massagers, diagnostic equipment, cosmetic equipment, or equipment for preventing injury, and even if it is described as a patient, it does not only mean a person who is injured or sick, but also includes a person who is undergoing examination or a person who is undergoing cosmetic surgery. Similarly, even if it is described as an affected part, it does not only mean an injured or sick part, but also refers to the part of the body that is being examined or the part of the body that is undergoing cosmetic surgery. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, electrical signals used for treatment do not exclude electrical signals or pulses used for massage, diagnosis, physical condition management, or beauty.

[0004] Recently, current stimulation devices have been used that utilize two or three pairs of electrodes, i.e., four or six electrodes arranged to surround the affected area. Each electrode pair supplies electrical signals of different frequencies to the affected area, generating interfering waves within the body for treatment. Treatment using interfering waves has the advantage of being able to effectively treat the affected area even when it is deep below the body surface.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 08-112362

[0006] If the frequency of the electric signal supplied to the affected part increases, it will reach deeper. However, if it is a higher frequency, for example, a given muscle contraction occurs, but of course it is difficult to obtain the effect of a low-frequency electric signal, such as a massage effect. In the technology described in the above-mentioned patent document 1, by supplying electric signals of different frequencies, it is possible to produce the effect of electric interference supplying both low-frequency and high-frequency effects to the affected part. However, in order to supply different electric signals to the affected part, at least two pairs of electrodes, for example three pairs of electrodes, that is, four or more, for example six electrodes are required. In a structure using multiple electrodes like this, if the electrodes are not correctly configured in the prescribed position and in the prescribed order, the expected effect cannot be achieved and sufficient treatment efficiency cannot be obtained. In addition, in the case where the electrodes used are consumables such as adhesive pads, there is a case where the running costs associated with the treatment also need to be more than twice, for example three times, requiring high treatment fees. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide an electric current stimulation device with high therapeutic efficiency in order to solve these problems.

[0008] To solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention adopts the following measures. Specifically, the current stimulation device of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a waveform generating unit that outputs an electrical signal; a control unit that controls the waveform generating unit; a set of electrodes for supplying the output electrical signal; and a power supply unit that supplies power to the waveform generating unit and the control unit, wherein the electrical signal is a fifth electrical signal composed of a first electrical signal, a second electrical signal, a third electrical signal, and a fourth electrical signal, wherein the amplitude of the first electrical signal increases from a first amplitude that is not zero, the second electrical signal is an electrical signal output after the first electrical signal and has a second amplitude, the third electrical signal is an electrical signal output after the second electrical signal and has a reduced amplitude to a third amplitude, and the fourth electrical signal has a fourth amplitude that is not zero.

[0009] Furthermore, the current stimulation device of the present invention is characterized in that the fifth electrical signal is repeatedly output according to different time periods.

[0010] According to the present invention, physical therapy that simultaneously achieves multiple effects can be implemented. Since a single pair of electrodes can be used to deliver treatment equivalent to or superior to interferential wave treatment using two or more pairs of electrodes, treatment efficiency can be improved. Furthermore, since only one pair of electrodes is used, mistakes in electrode placement and sequence are avoided, preventing the reduction in treatment efficiency caused by incorrect electrode placement. Furthermore, since unfamiliar treatments can be implemented, a current stimulation device can be provided that maintains high treatment efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the main body of the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the control device of the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 3B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 3C This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 3D This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 5A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 5B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 6A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 6B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 7A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 7BThis is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 9B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 10A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 10B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 10C This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 11A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 11B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 11C This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 11D This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 12A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 12B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 12C This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 13A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 13B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 13C This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 14 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 16A This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 16B This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 16C This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 16D This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 17 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical signals used in the current stimulation device of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Next, the electrical signal of the present invention and the device for outputting the electrical signal of the present invention will be described together with the treatment method of the present invention. Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of the main body 11 of the current stimulation device 1 used for explaining the present invention in this embodiment. A main power supply 15, an encoder 18, a display unit 114, a switch 105, a stop switch 12, and a connector 14 are provided on the front of the main body 11 of the current stimulation device 1. The connector 14 is connected to the electrode pad A 111 and the electrode pad B 112 via a wire 16.

[0048] During treatment, a pair of conductive adhesive pads, namely electrode pad A111 and electrode pad B112, are directly adhered to the skin at the affected part or near the affected part, for example, by clamping the affected part. Current flows from electrode pad A111 to electrode pad B112 or from electrode pad B112 to electrode pad A111 to supply an electrical signal to the affected part.

[0049] Alternatively, instead of electrode pads A111 and B112, a suction cup connected to a suction device may be used as the electrodes used, and an electrode disposed within the suction cup may be used to supply an electrical signal to the affected area. Alternatively, instead of the conductive adhesive pad, a conductive member having conductivity but no adhesive properties, such as conductive rubber, may be used. In such a case where no adhesive properties are present, a separate tape (not shown) may be used to secure these components.

[0050] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the control device 17. The control device 17 is located inside the main body 11 and controls the operation of the main body 11. The control device 17 is composed of a waveform generator 204, which is an output circuit that outputs electrical signals; a control unit 203 that controls the waveform generator 204; a timer 207; a user interface unit 201; a power supply unit 206; and a memory 205. In addition to a CPU and internal memory, the control unit 203 also includes an interface unit connected to each component. The control unit 203 is connected to the waveform generator 204, which generates electrical signals for applying current stimulation; the timer 207 for managing output for a certain period of time; the user interface unit 201 connected to the switch 105 and the display unit 114; and the memory 205, and controls these components. The power consumed by each component is controlled to a predetermined voltage value by the power supply unit 206 and supplied to each component via the control unit 203.

[0051] The current stimulation device 1 is used as follows. First, after the user wears the electrode pad A111 and the electrode pad B112 on the affected part, the user turns on the main power supply 15. If the main power supply 15 is turned on, the status of the main body 11 and the button type as an interface for various settings, such as the button for displaying the treatment mode and the output level, are displayed on the display unit 114. The display unit 114 is a thin display such as a touch panel liquid crystal display, which serves as a display unit and an input unit. If the output level is clicked, the encoder 18 becomes valid, and by rotating the encoder 18, the amplitude of the output of the electrical signal described later can be set. Furthermore, if the user uses the display unit 114 to select the desired treatment mode, the various parameters of the electrical signal used in the selected treatment mode are read from the memory 205 and supplied to the waveform generation unit 204. If the user continues to press the switch 105, the information is sent to the control unit 203 via the user IF unit 201, and the control unit 203 instructs the waveform generation unit 204 to output the electrical signal described later. The waveform generator 204 outputs an electrical signal based on the supplied parameters and supplies the output electrical signal to electrode pad A111 via connector 14 and wire 16 connected to terminal A208, and to electrode pad B112 via connector 14 and wire 16 connected to terminal B209. This information is simultaneously transmitted to timer 207, which begins measuring time, such as the treatment duration and the duration of the electrical signal output by waveform generator 204, i.e., the duration of the electrical signal supply to the affected area, i.e., 20 minutes. Information related to the timer 207's measurement, such as the elapsed time, is fed back to control unit 203. Based on this feedback, control unit 203 stops the output of electrical signals by suspending power to waveform generator 204. The treatment duration is not limited to 20 minutes and can be longer or shorter than 20 minutes, and can be appropriately set or adjusted by the user based on the condition of the affected area. Furthermore, a stop switch 12 is used to forcibly stop all electrical signal output in the event of an unforeseen situation.

[0052] The control unit 203 instructs the user interface unit 201 to display that it is outputting an electrical signal based on the power supplied to the waveform generator 204. The user interface unit 201 causes the display unit 114 to display the character "ON" indicating that the electrical signal is being output. Furthermore, when the control unit 203 stops outputting the electrical signal, the control unit 203 transmits a predetermined message to the user interface unit 201. Based on this message, the user interface unit 201 instructs the display unit 114 to display "OFF" instead of "ON."

[0053] Figure 3A The electrical signal supplied to the human body, such as an affected part, by the present invention is schematically shown. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents amplitude, such as the amplitude of the current. If the collection of pulses is called a pulse group, then Figure 3A The electrical signal is composed of multiple pulse groups. In particular Figure 3A The electrical signal in is represented as a fifth electrical signal including a first electrical signal, a second electrical signal, a third electrical signal and a fourth electrical signal, wherein the first electrical signal is a pulse group whose first amplitude is not zero and increases to a fifth amplitude, the second electrical signal is a pulse group output after the first electrical signal and has a second amplitude not zero, the third electrical signal is a pulse group output after the second electrical signal and has a sixth amplitude reduced to a third amplitude, and the fourth electrical signal is a fourth amplitude not zero. The time for outputting the first electrical signal, the second electrical signal, the third electrical signal and the fourth electrical signal can be, for example, 1 second, 0.8 second, 1 second and 0.8 second, respectively. In Figure 3A The vertical axis represents the current value, but the vertical axis can also represent the electrical signal as a voltage value. The first amplitude, second amplitude, and third amplitude are, for example, 14mA, 17mA, and 14mA, respectively, which are values ​​that slightly cause muscle contraction and can be used to relieve pain and fatigue.

[0054] Figure 3B The fifth electrical signal is schematically represented. Hereinafter, for simplicity, the fifth electrical signal is represented as follows: Figure 3B The following diagram is used to illustrate the Figure 3B As shown, the first electrical signal, the second electrical signal, the third electrical signal, the fourth electrical signal, and the fifth electrical signal are represented as the first electrical signal 301, the second electrical signal 302, the third electrical signal 303, the fourth electrical signal 304, and the fifth electrical signal 305, respectively. Figure 3A In the example, each electrical signal is converted into Figure 3C The pulse waveform is used repeatedly as one cycle of the basic pulse while changing the amplitude control of the basic pulse (hereinafter referred to as variable control), thereby forming the first electric signal 301, the second electric signal 302, the third electric signal 303, the fourth electric signal 304, and the fifth electric signal 305. Hereinafter, the first electric signal 301, the second electric signal 302, the third electric signal 303, the fourth electric signal 304, and the fifth electric signal 305 will be simply recorded as the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, the fourth signal, and the fifth signal. According to such a fifth signal, since the second signal and the fourth signal as high frequencies are alternately given, the effect of low frequencies can be obtained in the deep part, and the therapeutic effects of both high frequencies and low frequencies can be given to the patient at the same time, thereby improving the therapeutic efficiency. The therapeutic method using such electric signals is very effective and can improve the therapeutic efficiency. Furthermore, the second signal and the fourth signal can be the same frequency or different frequencies.

[0055] The basic pulse is not limited to this, and can also be Figure 3DThe pulse waveform of is used as a basic pulse while the amplitude of the basic pulse is variably controlled to form the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, the fourth signal, and the fifth signal. Alternatively, Figure 3C The pulse waveform and Figure 3D At least one of the pulse waveforms is used as the basic pulse, or both are mixed to form the fifth signal. Furthermore, as the basic pulse, it can also be a sine wave, a triangle wave, a sawtooth wave or an impulse string, or a composite waveform of these waveforms, instead of a rectangular pulse. Alternatively, as the basic pulse, a pulse waveform with equal positive and negative amplitudes is taken as an example, but it is not limited to this. It can also be a pulse waveform with different positive and negative amplitudes, or a pulse with equal offset positive and negative amplitudes. In addition, the basic pulse can use a pulse of 300Hz and 100μsec, but it is not limited to this. For example, a medium frequency or high frequency of 500Hz, 800Hz, etc., which is more than 10 times the fifth signal, can be used. In addition, in Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B In the example in which the first amplitude, the third amplitude, and the fourth amplitude are the same, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a structure in which at least one of these amplitudes is different from the other amplitudes may also be employed. Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B , an example is shown in which the fifth amplitude is the same as the second amplitude, and the second amplitude is the same as the sixth amplitude, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The fifth amplitude may be different from the second amplitude, and the second amplitude may be different from the sixth amplitude.

[0056] Figure 4 This is another example of an electrical signal supplied to an affected area, illustrating a state in which a fifth signal is repeatedly output at different times. When treatment begins, the fifth signal is output at T501, followed by outputs at T502, T503, and so on. If the time from the start of one signal to the start of the next first signal is referred to as the duration of the fifth signal, or simply as the duration, as in T501, T502, T503, and so on, the duration of the fifth signal is 1 second at T501, 0.67 seconds at T502, 0.5 seconds at T503, 0.4 seconds at T504, and 0.2 seconds at T509, successively shortening. Thereafter, the duration gradually increases, reaching 0.22 seconds at T510, 0.25 seconds at T511, 0.29 seconds at T512, and so on, ultimately returning to 1 second at T517. This control is repeated. For example, after T517, the fifth signal is output for 0.67 seconds at T518. That is, during the treatment time, the fifth signal is repeatedly output while gradually changing the duration from T501 to T517.

[0057] exist Figure 4The duration of the electrical signal supplied under the control of is not fixed, but is always variably controlled. Since the patient feels that the frequency of the electrical signal supplied has changed, it is difficult for the patient to get used to the electrical stimulation, unlike the case where only the electrical signal of fixed frequency is repeatedly supplied, and a good electrical stimulation effect is sustained for a long period of time, which can improve the therapeutic effect.

[0058] exist Figure 4 In the control, if T501 is considered as one cycle, then since T501 is 1 second, the frequency of the fifth signal in T501 is 1Hz, and since the fifth signal in T509 is 0.2 seconds, the frequency is several 5Hz. As a result, the frequency is controlled to change from 1Hz to 5Hz. However, this is not limited to this, and the frequency can also be controlled from 2Hz to 10Hz. Furthermore, in Figure 4 Under the control, the frequency is changed from 1Hz to 5Hz at a fixed rate of change of every 0.5Hz, but it can also be controlled at every 0.4Hz or every 0.6Hz, for example, every 1Hz, that is, it is controlled at a fixed frequency change. Figure 4 In FIG. 1 , the frequency is changed from 1 Hz to 5 Hz, and then from 5 Hz to 1 Hz, and this frequency control is repeated.

[0059] In the frequency control, it is also possible to control with a fixed ratio. For example, the frequency can be changed with a fixed ratio in the form of 1Hz in T501, 1.5Hz in T502, 2.2Hz in T503, 3.3Hz in T504, and 5Hz in T505, for example, the frequency can be increased by 1.5 times or reduced by one-third. Furthermore, a structure can also be used to control the frequency change by applying a specific formula. Figure 4 The frequency of the fifth signal is changed from 1 Hz to 5 Hz, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the frequency of the fifth signal may be controlled to increase from a fifth signal having a duration of at least 1 second, such as 0.1 Hz or 0.5 Hz, and then variably controlled to maintain the duration of the fifth signal at less than 1 second, that is, to control the frequency of the fifth signal from less than 1 Hz to greater than 1 Hz. Alternatively, the frequency of the fifth signal may be controlled to maintain the duration of the fifth signal at a constant duration of at least 1 second, that is, to maintain the frequency of the fifth signal at a constant duration of less than 1 second, or to maintain the frequency of the fifth signal at a constant duration of less than 1 second, that is, to maintain the frequency of the fifth signal at a constant frequency of less than 1 Hz.

[0060] Here, for T1 to T5, the duration of the first signal is set to T1, the duration of the second signal is set to T2, the duration of the third signal is set to T3, the duration of the fourth signal is set to T4, and the duration of the fifth signal is set to T5. In addition, the subscript 01 is used in T501, and the duration of the first signal is expressed as T101, the duration of the second signal is expressed as T201, the duration of the third signal is expressed as T301, and the duration of the fourth signal is expressed as T401. Figure 4 These reference numerals are used to represent the fifth signal at the position of T501 as an example. Hereinafter, 02 is used in T502 to represent T102, T202, T302, and T402, and 03 is used in T503 to represent T103, T203, T303, and T403, and the same applies to the following.

[0061] exist Figure 4 In the control, the duration of each signal constituting the fifth signal is gradually reduced or increased. Therefore, at least one of T1, T2, T3, and T4 is controlled to shorten or lengthen as T5 changes. For example, if T1 is set to 30% of T5, T2 is set to 14% of T5, T3 is set to 30% of T5, and T4 is set to 26% of T5, then in the example of this embodiment, T501 is 1 second, T101 = 0.3 seconds, T201 = 0.14 seconds, T301 = 0.3 seconds, and T401 = 0.26 seconds. Since T503 is 0.45 seconds, T1 to T4 can also be 45% of the respective values ​​of T501 in T503. Since T505 is 0.33 seconds, 33% of each of T101, T201, T301, and T401 can be determined as T105, T205, T305, and T405 in T505.

[0062] The duration of each signal of the fifth signal may also be controlled so that the variation of a part of the signals, for example, only the first signal or the first signal and the third signal is greater than the variation of the second signal, instead of Figure 4 The duration of each signal can be increased or decreased at a fixed ratio, as in the control of the first and third signals. In this case, the first and third signals increase or decrease significantly, while the second signal increases or decreases less than the first and third signals. Furthermore, the duration of the fourth signal can be controlled to increase or decrease in a decreasing manner, which is suitable for situations where the effect of the second signal is to be further emphasized.

[0063] On the other hand, if the first and third signals become too weak, pain caused by the current stimulation is more likely to occur. In this case, the duration of the second signal can be controlled so that the increase or decrease in the duration of the first and third signals is less than the increase or decrease in the duration of the second signal. The first and third signals have the effect of alleviating pain caused by current stimulation and are suitable when it is desired to emphasize the effects of the first and third signals.

[0064] Furthermore, the opposite control to the increase and decrease of the first and third signals may be applied to the second signal. For example, T101, T102, T103, ..., T109 may be successively shortened by 0.33 seconds, 0.22 seconds, 0.17 seconds, 0.13 seconds, 0.11 seconds, 0.095 seconds, 0.083 seconds, 0.074 seconds, and 0.067 seconds, while T201, T202, T203, ..., T209 may be successively lengthened by 0.005 seconds, 0.01 seconds, 0.015 seconds, 0.02 seconds, 0.025 seconds, 0.03 seconds, 0.035 seconds, 0.04 seconds, and 0.045 seconds. If the duration of the first signal and the third signal are equal, then in this case, the duration of the fourth signal, i.e., T401, T402, T403, ... T409, is 0.33 seconds, 0.21 seconds, 0.15 seconds, 0.11 seconds, 0.086 seconds, 0.065 seconds, 0.048 seconds, 0.034 seconds, and 0.022 seconds. This control is suitable for situations where you want to further emphasize the effect of using the second signal, for example, when you want to get a stronger physical sensation even when the duration of the fifth signal is shortened. In addition, the duration of each signal can also be calculated using a formula that can perform the desired control. For example, in the above control, the duration of the second signal (T201, T202, T203, ..., T209) can be calculated by substituting 1 second, 0.67 second, 0.5 second, ..., 0.2 second, as the duration of the fifth signal (T501, T502, T503, ..., T509), into T, for example, 0.01 ÷ T - 0.005. The duration of the first signal (T101, T102, T103, ..., T109) can be calculated by substituting T501, T502, T503, ..., T509, as the duration of the fifth signal (T501, T502, T503, ..., T509), into T, for example, T ÷ 3. The duration of the third signal is equal to that of the first signal. The durations of the fourth signal, T401, T402, T403, ..., T409, can also be calculated as the value obtained by subtracting the durations of the first, second, and third signals from the durations of the fifth signal, T501, T502, T503, ..., T509. Furthermore, while the example herein illustrates a case where the durations of the first and third signals are equal, the present invention is not limited thereto. The durations of the first and third signals can also be set to be different.

[0065] The control is performed in such a way that the duration of the fifth signal becomes shorter in sequence. If it reaches a certain value, the control is then performed in such a way that the duration of the fifth signal is extended. For example, from T510 to T517, the duration of each fifth signal from T501 to T508 is used, and the control is performed in such a way that the duration of the first signal, the third signal, and the fourth signal is extended in sequence, and the duration of the second signal is shortened in sequence. For example, T510 is controlled using T508, T511 is controlled using T507, T512 is controlled using T506, ..., T517 is controlled using T501. Hereinafter, T501 to T517 are repeated. It should be noted that in this example, the duration of the fifth signal is controlled to increase from 1 second, i.e., 1 Hz, by 0.5 Hz to a certain value, for example, 0.2 seconds, i.e., 5 Hz. If it reaches 5 Hz, it is reversed and reduced by 0.5 Hz back to 1 Hz. This series of control (called one cycle) is performed in approximately 7.5 seconds, and this control is repeated. The present invention is not limited to this, and one cycle may be a control in which the frequency is changed from 2 Hz to 5 Hz at intervals of 0.03 Hz, for example, and one cycle is set to approximately 31 seconds.

[0066] In the control example above, the duration of each signal constituting the fifth signal changes as the duration of the fifth signal changes. Alternatively, control can be performed by changing only a portion of the duration of each waveform. For example, T101 = T102 = T103 = T104 = ... = 0.03 seconds, T201 = T202 = T203 = T204 = ... = 0.1 seconds, and T301 = T302 = T303 = T304 = ... = 0.03 seconds, meaning these times remain fixed. In this case, for example, only the duration of the fourth signal can be controlled so that T401 = 0.84 seconds, T402 = 0.51 seconds, T403 = 0.34 seconds, T404 = 0.24 seconds, ... T409 = 0.04 seconds. After T510, the duration corresponding to T4 is controlled in a sequentially increasing manner. For example, the time corresponding to T4 is increased to 0.06 seconds, 0.09 seconds, 0.12 seconds, 0.17 seconds, 0.24 seconds, 0.34 seconds, 0.51 seconds, and 0.84 seconds, respectively, and this process is then repeated. In this example, the durations of the first, second, and third signals are fixed, but this is not limited to this. Alternatively, the durations of the first and third signals may be fixed, the durations of the second or fourth signal may be fixed, or both may be fixed. Alternatively, the total duration of specific signals may be fixed. For example, the total duration of the first, second, and third signals may be fixed, but the lengths of the first and second signals may be changed.

[0067] In the control example above, the duration of the fifth signal is changed each time the fifth signal is output. The present invention is not limited to this. For example, the control may be performed such that the duration of the fifth signal is changed based on the number of times the fifth signal is output, such as after outputting the fifth signal twice with a duration of T501, then outputting the fifth signal twice with a duration of T502, followed by two times with a duration of T503. Alternatively, the output frequency of the fifth signal may be controlled based on the duration of the fifth signal, such as after outputting the fifth signal once with a duration of T501, then outputting the fifth signal twice with a duration of T502, followed by three times with a duration of T503. Furthermore, the duration of each signal may be changed when increasing the duration of the fifth signal or when decreasing the duration of the fifth signal. That is, when decreasing the duration of the fifth signal, the duration of the fifth signal may be decreased by, for example, 0.03 seconds, while when increasing the duration of the fifth signal, the duration may be increased by 0.05 seconds.

[0068] FIG5 shows another example of the fifth signal in the present invention. Figure 4 In the embodiment, the first signal, the second signal, the third signal, and the fourth signal are sequentially output to form the fifth signal, but it is not limited thereto. For example, Figure 5A The fourth signal, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal are sequentially output to form the fifth signal. Alternatively, Figure 5B In this way, after the fourth signal, the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal are output in sequence, the fourth signal is output again to form the fifth signal. Figure 5B In the embodiment of the present invention, a sixth signal having an amplitude different from that of the fourth signal may be used instead of the fourth signal output after the third signal to form the electrical signal. A signal formed by the first, second, third, fourth, and sixth signals may be used as a seventh signal, and the above-described control may be applied to the seventh signal.

[0069] As described above, the amplitude of the first and third signals is controlled to change gradually with each basic pulse, as in the first and third signals. However, this is not limiting. Alternatively, the amplitude may be controlled to change stepwise, with uniform or non-uniform steps, by changing the amplitude after outputting multiple basic pulses. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3 to 5 , the amplitude of the first and third signals may be controlled to change nonlinearly, i.e., not linearly, at a constant rate.

[0070] In the above examples, the amplitude of the basic pulse is kept constant as in the second signal and the fourth signal. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and the amplitude of the basic pulse may be changed so that the amplitude does not fall below or exceed a certain value. Figure 6A as well as Figure 6B . Figure 6A Indicates that the amplitude of the second signal is not fixed. Figure 6B In the present invention, these controls may be performed so as to appropriately obtain the effects of the high-frequency electrical signal and the low-frequency electrical signal. Figure 6A and Figure 6B The control is not a selective one, and the amplitudes of both the second signal and the fourth signal may be controlled to be non-fixed. Furthermore, these controls can also be applied to the fifth signal in FIG5 , that is, the amplitudes of the first signal to the fourth signal may be changed each time the fifth signal is output. Figure 6A 、 Figure 6B control.

[0071] In the above examples, control of each signal is achieved by controlling only the amplitude of the basic pulse, but this is not limiting. At least the pulse width, frequency, or maximum amplitude of the basic pulse can also be changed. For example, instead of extending the duration of the second signal, the pulse width can be extended from 100 μsec. For example, instead of extending the duration of the second signal to 0.005, 0.01, 0.015, 0.02, 0.025, 0.03, 0.035, 0.04, or 0.045 seconds, the duration of the second signal can be fixed and the pulse width can be controlled to, for example, 100 μsec, 150 μsec, 200 μsec, 250 μsec, 300 μsec, 350 μsec, 400 μsec, or 450 μsec. The use of pulse width control does not exclude the use of control over the duration of each signal, such as the duration of the second signal. Both pulse width control and signal duration control can also be used. Therefore, for example, the duration of the second signal is extended to 0.005 seconds, 0.01 seconds, 0.015 seconds, 0.02 seconds, 0.025 seconds, 0.03 seconds, 0.035 seconds, 0.04 seconds, and 0.045 seconds, and the pulse width of the basic pulse is controlled to 100μsec, 150μsec, 200μsec, 250μsec, 300μsec, 350μsec, 400μsec, and 450μsec. More specifically, the duration and pulse width of the second signal can be changed by setting the pulse width to 100μsec when the duration of the second signal is 0.005 seconds, to 150μsec when the duration is 0.01 seconds, to 200μsec when the duration is 0.015 seconds, to 250μsec when the duration is 0.02 seconds, and so on.

[0072] In the present invention, the amplitude of each signal can be independently set, but for example, the first, third, and fourth amplitudes can be changed in conjunction with the second amplitude. The treatment method using electrical signals as described above is very effective and can improve treatment efficiency.

[0073] Second embodiment

[0074] Another example of the current stimulation device of the present invention will be described. Figure 7AThe figure shows the side view of the main body A1700 of the current stimulation device of the present invention. The main body A1700 comprises a belt portion A1701, an elastic portion A1707, and a controller A1704. The belt portion A1701 is provided with an electrode A1702 (first electrode) and an electrode B1703 (second electrode) that contact the human body. These electrodes are connected to the controller A1704 via a wiring harness A1708 located within the belt portion A1701. Since the wiring harness A1708 is not visible from the outside, its position is shown with dashed lines. Figure 7B It is from Figure 7A The main view of the main body A1700 is observed in the direction of arrow A.

[0075] The telescopic portion A1707 is made of, for example, silicone rubber and is easily telescopic. By extending and retracting the telescopic portion A1707, the main body can be worn on the limbs, such as the wrist. In the worn state, the electrode A1702 and the electrode B1703 can contact the skin of the wrist and impart the electrical stimulation described later. The part where the main body A1700 is worn is not limited to the wrist, but can also be the ankle, and is preferably worn on the extremity or near it. In particular, considering ease of wearing, difficulty in falling off, and handling during use, it is preferably worn on the wrist or ankle. In this embodiment, the main body A1700 is described as being worn on the wrist. The telescopic portion A1707 is not limited to silicone rubber, but can also be natural rubber or polyurethane rubber.

[0076] The main body A1700 is worn so that the controller A1704 is on the back of the wrist, the electrode A1702 contacts the back of the wrist, and the electrode B1703 contacts the palm of the wrist. Alternatively, the main body A1700 can be worn so that the controller A1704 is on the palm of the wrist, the electrode A1702 contacts the palm of the wrist, and the electrode B1703 contacts the back of the wrist.

[0077] The main body A1700 is formed into a ring by the belt part A1701 and the stretch part A1707, but it can also be a polygon other than a circle, for example, it can be an ellipse, rectangle, etc. As long as the electrode A1702 and the electrode B1703 can properly contact the wrist, it can also be other shapes.

[0078] Alternatively, the strap may be formed into a belt-like shape rather than an endless loop, with hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons, or hooks attached to both ends. For example, the strap may be wrapped around the wrist and secured with the hook-and-loop fastener to form a loop. Alternatively, the strap may be formed into a partially released belt-like shape using a release end, such as an elastic leaf spring, to prevent the strap from becoming endless even when worn. The elasticity of the leaf spring allows for easy donning and undressing, and for easy and reliable contact of the electrodes with the skin.

[0079] Electrode A1702 and electrode B1703 are made of, for example, a solid gel with high conductivity or low resistance. However, this is not limiting, and the electrodes may be conductive components that appropriately contact the area of ​​the wearer A1700 and can impart an electrical signal to the skin. The conductive component may be, for example, a metal such as a stainless steel plate formed into the shape of an electrode, or a conductive cloth using silver wire, or a conductive paint. Alternatively, it may be a conductive rubber, for example, a conductive rubber having conductivity that is made of a base material such as silicone rubber or polyurethane rubber and mixed with a conductive material such as carbon powder.

[0080] Controller A1704 is equipped with a switch A1705 and an LED-A1706, which can control and confirm the electrical signals applied to electrodes A1702 and B1703. When switch A1705 is pressed, LED-A1706 lights up, and the electrical stimulation described later is supplied to the extremities of the limbs, in this embodiment, the wrists, via electrodes A1702 and B1703.

[0081] In this embodiment, the controller A1704 has the following Figure 2 However, the control device 17 used in this embodiment replaces Figure 2 The power supply unit 206 is equipped with a battery 1773. The battery 1773 may be, for example, a button-type battery or a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the device may be connected to a DC power source using a household outlet instead of the battery 1773 (not shown).

[0082] In addition, the main body A1700 outputs the electrical signal described in the first embodiment. As an example, the output is a signal in which the frequency of the basic pulse is set to 5 Hz, the pulse width is 50 msec, the second amplitude is set to 300 μA, the fourth amplitude is set to 100 mA, and T1 to T4 are set to 1 second respectively. Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B The electrical signal is shown in .

[0083] The electrical signal of this embodiment uses an output that is not perceptible to the human body (hereinafter referred to as "non-sensory output"). Generally, if the current value exceeds 20mA, pain caused by the current is likely to occur. From the second edition of the EBM physical therapy original book (Ichiyaku Publishing Co., Ltd.), page 242 Figure 8As can be seen from the figure, an output of 20 mA or more is required to induce muscle contraction. Conversely, if the output is below 20 mA, although the electrical signal is perceived, muscle contraction is unlikely to occur. Furthermore, by setting the output to approximately 300 μA or 100 μA, as in this embodiment, muscle contraction is not normally induced. In addition, unless special conditions are met, the human body is generally unable to sense the electrical signal being supplied, and naturally, the pain caused by the electrical signal is not felt.

[0084] In the present invention, by using only one set of electrodes to impart the above-mentioned electrical signals to the extremities or their vicinity, the effect can be obtained on the whole body, specifically, the effect of regulating the autonomic nerves can be obtained. As mentioned above, in the present invention, a set of electrodes A1702 and electrodes B1703 are arranged on the palm side and the back side of the wrist. Usually, the effect is limited to the muscles where the current flows. In the present invention, there are no nerves or muscles along the current flowing due to these electrodes at the part where the electrodes are worn, i.e., the wrist. The effect of regulating the autonomic nerves is not the effect of stimulating specific nerves or muscles caused by the imparted electrical signals. In the present invention, by imparting electrical stimulation to the extremities or their vicinity, the unique effect of the present invention, such as the effect of regulating the balance of the autonomic nerves, can be obtained. In addition, the effect lasts for a long time even if the supply of the electrical signal is stopped, and this continuation is also a unique effect of the present invention.

[0085] In summary, since the balance of the autonomic nervous system can be adjusted, for example, when the sympathetic nervous system is overly dominant, the activity of the sympathetic nervous system is suppressed or the parasympathetic nervous system is activated. On the contrary, when the parasympathetic nervous system is overly dominant, the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system is suppressed and the sympathetic nervous system is activated, thereby adjusting the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Due to medical diseases and other reasons, when the sympathetic nervous system is dominant, there are cases where sufficient sleep cannot be obtained, and there are cases where the physical condition is further deteriorated due to lack of sleep or stress caused by lack of sleep. However, if the device implementing the present invention is used, the balance of the autonomic nervous system can be adjusted and high-quality sleep can be obtained, so it is also hoped to eliminate mental stress. On the contrary, when the parasympathetic nervous system is overly dominant, the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system is suppressed and the sympathetic nervous system is activated, thereby suppressing drowsiness and improving the efficiency of driving, working, or studying, and further eliminating the pressure caused by drowsiness.

[0086] The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. Below, variations of the above-mentioned embodiments are shown as other embodiments. Furthermore, the following variations can be combined with the above-mentioned main body A1700 for use, or at least two of the following variations and the above-mentioned embodiments can be combined.

[0087] Figure 8The main body C1803 is shown as a modified example. In the above-mentioned main body A1700, since the controller A1704 is worn in a manner that becomes the back side or palm side of the wrist, the electrode A1702 and the electrode B1703 also become the palm side of the wrist and the back side of the wrist, but it can also be as follows Figure 8 The main body C1803 of the present invention is arranged on the right and left sides of the wrist toward the back of the hand and the palm, that is, it is arranged in a manner of clamping the wrist from the left and right. Alternatively, it can also be arranged in an array on the wrist. For example, the electrode A1702 and the electrode B1703 are arranged in an adjacent manner along the circumference of the wrist on the band A1701, but can also be arranged in an adjacent manner in a direction at right angles to the circumference, or can be arranged obliquely relative to the circumference. With respect to such an electrode configuration, since the purpose of the present invention is not to stimulate direct muscle contraction or specific acupuncture points by electrical signals, the present invention can configure the electrodes regardless of the direction of the muscles, the position of the acupuncture points, the presence or absence of muscles, acupuncture points, or the muscles along the current path. Figure 8 As an example, the main body C1803 in which the electrode position of the main body A1700 is changed is shown, but in the device of the present invention for applying current to the extremities or their periphery, such a configuration of the electrode position can be adopted, and it can also be applied to the examples described below.

[0088] Another variation is shown below. In the above-described electrical signal output, the second amplitude is set to 300 μA, but this is not limited to this. For example, it can be 200 μA, 100 μA, or 500 μA. The fourth amplitude is set to 100 μA, but for example, it can also be 50 μA. Alternatively, the output value can be adjusted to achieve the desired effect, for example, by providing controller A1704 with a volume function to adjust the output. Because the aforementioned effects may vary from person to person, it is preferable to be able to adjust the output.

[0089] Another variation is shown. Regarding the output of the electrical signal used above, for example, the output used for the second signal is 300 μA as described above, using a single value, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in the second signal, the output value can also be changed starting from 300 μA for each fifth signal. For example, after pressing switch A1705, the output of the first second signal can be 300 μA, but the output of the next second signal can be 320 μA, and the output value can be gradually changed in units of the fifth signal thereafter. Alternatively, a structure can be used that increases or decreases the output value. Similarly, the fourth amplitude can also be changed for each fifth signal.

[0090] Another variation is shown. For the output of the electrical signal used above, for example, the output used for the second signal is 300 μA as described above, and an output in which the human body cannot perceive electrical stimulation is used, but the present invention is not limited to this. It can also be an output in which the wrist can perceive electrical stimulation, and the electrical stimulation does not produce muscle contraction and does not feel pain (hereinafter referred to as "sensible output"), such as an output of about 500 μA or 800 μA. Here, 500 μA is described as a sensed output. By setting it to 500 μA like this, if there is no injury to the wrist, or there is no current concentration described later, most people will not feel pain.

[0091] Another variation is shown below. Regarding the output of the electrical signal used above, for example, a fixed output is used, as described above, but the present invention is not limited to this. Alternatively, the output may be a sensed output, for example, 500 μA, and then after a certain period of time, for example, 30 seconds, the electrical signal output is changed to a non-sense output, for example, 100 μA. This output change can be, for example, from a sensed output to a non-sense output, i.e., a sudden change from 500 μA to 100 μA, or it can be controlled so that the output gradually changes from 500 μA to 400 μA, 300 μA, and finally to 100 μA. Furthermore, since the sensed output is a very weak electrical current, as described above, at a level that is not painful, it can be used as a second signal. Even when using this 500 μA sensed output in conjunction with the non-sense output, the same effect as the non-sense output is achieved, without hindering the effect of the non-sense output. For example, the use of the sensed output can reduce the effect of the non-sense output, thereby preventing adverse effects or negative impacts caused by the use of the sensed output. Therefore, temporarily using the inductive output as shown below will result in the effect of more effectively utilizing the non-inductive output.

[0092] When using non-sensing output, the user may not be able to sense the output and may not know that switch A1705 has not been pressed, or that the appropriate output has not been performed due to reasons such as the low remaining amount of storage battery 1773, resulting in the user not noticing the undesirable situation of not performing the output. However, by using sensed output after the output starts as described above, the user can easily know that an electrical signal has been output. Conversely, if no sensed electrical stimulation is obtained after the output starts, the user can easily know that no output has been performed, and this undesirable situation can be easily avoided. For example, it is easy to notice that the switch operation is incorrect or the storage battery is exhausted, and it is easy to perform corrections such as re-operation, replacement of storage battery 1773, or charging of storage battery 1773. In addition, when using only non-sensing output, since the user cannot feel the electrical stimulation, there is a situation where the user has doubts about whether the electrical signal is actually being output, that is, whether the device is operating normally. However, because there is a temporary sensed electrical stimulation, the user can easily know that the device is operating normally and can truly feel the output.

[0093] Temporary induced output, such as that described above, can be used not only after the output starts, but also before the output ends. For example, by performing induced output instead of inductive output 30 seconds before the output ends, the user can be immediately notified of the end of output. When using inductive output, there is a problem that the user cannot know when the output ends, but by using induced output when the output is about to end, the user can easily know the end of output. In addition, it is also possible to change from inductive output to induced output. For example, when the inductive output is 100μA, it can be suddenly changed from 100μA to 500μA. For example, it can also be controlled in a way that it gradually changes from 50μA to 100μA, 200μA, 300μA, and finally to 500μA.

[0094] The temporary sensible output as described above is not only used when the output starts or ends, but can also be used at both the start and end of the output. Alternatively, by regularly using the temporary sensible output, the user can be notified of the passage of time together with the normal operation of the device. For example, the sensible output can be used with the second signal or with the second and fourth signals every time the output lasts for 5 minutes. Furthermore, by changing the duration of the sensible output used in the case of subsequent output (indicating the passage of time) to the duration of the sensible output used in the case of the end of the output, it is more preferable because when the user feels the sensible stimulation, it can be easily determined whether the output has ended or only indicates the passage of time.

[0095] As described above, the use of sensible output at the start or end of output, or for short periods of time on a regular basis, i.e., the temporary use of sensible output, is more preferable from the following perspective. While sensible output does not cause pain, prolonged exposure to this stimulation may not necessarily be stressful. Therefore, while sensible output does not cause pain, it is desirable to limit its use to short, temporary periods. Temporarily using such sensible output in place of insensible output is more preferable because it does not cause stress to the user. In summary, while insensible output is used, the temporary use of sensible output can be used as a notification method or notification unit to convey information to the user, such as the start or end of electrical signal output, or the passage of time.

[0096] Figure 9A and Figure 9B The main body D1904 is shown as another modified example. In the above-mentioned main body A1700, various circuit parts built into the controller A1704 are configured in the belt part A1701, but this is not limited to this and can also be provided outside the belt part A1701. Figure 9B As shown, for example, the controller D1905 and the main body D1904 may be independently provided. Figure 9A The situation observed in the direction of arrow B is shown in Figure 9B .exist Figure 9A The controller D1905 is omitted, but is recorded in Figure 9B . In this case, the independent controller D1905 can be a structure for use by hanging it around the neck via a neck strap, or a structure for use by putting it in a pocket. In this case, the controller D1905 can also be a structure that can supply electrical signals to the wrist through the electrode A1702 connected to the terminal part A1902 and the electrode B1703 connected to the terminal part B1903 by connecting it to the terminal part A1902 and the terminal part B1903 of the mounting part 1901 provided on the belt part A1701 using the cable M1900 and the connector K1908. In addition, each terminal part and the electrode are connected by a harness B1909 in the belt part A1701. The controller D1905 is provided with a switch B1906 and an LED-B1907, and is used in the same manner as the switch A1705 and the LED-A1706.

[0097] Figure 10AAnother variation is shown. In the above examples, it is assumed that the wrist is worn, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it can also be in the shape of a ring. As an example, the case with a ring A2101 is shown. The ring A2101 is configured with electrodes C2102 and D2103 equivalent to electrodes A1702 and B1703. The electrode C2102 is connected to the terminal part C2104 via a harness C2108, and the electrode D2103 is connected to the terminal part D2105 via a harness D2109. The terminal part C2104 and the terminal part D2105 are connected to the cable H2107 via a connector H2106, and the controller is connected to the main body H2100 configured on the bracelet 2110. For the controller, Figure 10B The case where the controller A1704 is used is shown in FIG. Figure 10C In this way, the controller A1704 is set on the wristband 2110, and the main body H2100 is worn on the wrist, and the ring A2101 is worn like a ring for use.

[0098] Ring A2101 can be made of insulating materials such as resin, rubber, silicon, etc. Figures 10A to 10C This is a conceptual diagram to explain the structure of each part, so although it is shown in almost the same size Figure 10A Ring and Figure 10C The main body is H2100, but this does not mean that they are the same size.

[0099] Figure 11A Show Figures 10A to 10C A modification of . Figure 10A In the embodiment, two electrodes are arranged in the ring A2101, but in the present invention, a structure for imparting current to the extremities or the vicinity thereof may also be employed, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 11A As shown, it is also possible to configure only one of the two electrodes for supplying electrical signals in the ring J1001 in the shape of a ring, and configure the other electrode in another part, such as a wrist. Figure 11A In, with Figure 10A The ring J1001 is similarly shown. Figure 10A The electrodes C2102 and wiring harness are not configured in the ring J1001, such as Figure 11C As shown, the main body J2206 is configured as an electrode A1702 and a harness E1008. The main body J2206 is composed of a belt part A1701 and a stretch part A1707. Figure 7A as well as Figure 7BThe electrode D2103 is connected to the terminal portion D2105 via the harness D2109, and the terminal portion D2105 is connected to the cable J1007 via the connector J1006, and is connected to the controller. The main body J2206 is worn on the wrist, and the ring J1001 is worn like a ring. As the structure of the ring J1001, the case where an insulating material is used as the ring A2101 is illustrated as an example, but it is not limited to this. For example, the ring can also be composed of a conductor such as platinum, silver, or a material with high conductivity. Figure 11D In this case, the structure becomes simpler without the need for the harness D2109, etc. Figure 11B The ring K1002 can be used instead of the ring J1001. The ring K1002 is connected to the main body J2206 via the harness E1008 and the terminal portion D2105.

[0100] 12A to 12C Another modification is shown. Figures 10A to 10C The pictures, 11A to 11D In each figure, an example of using only one ring-shaped ring A2101, ring J1001, and ring K1002 is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, a structure using multiple rings K1002 is also possible. Figure 12B , a structure using two rings K1002 is shown. In this figure, a main body K2307 is used instead of the main body J2206 as a structure that can use multiple rings K1002. The two rings K1002 that function as electrodes are connected to the main body K2307 via a cable K1107.

[0101] Figure 13A Another modification is shown. In the above, it is assumed that it is worn on the wrist or finger, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it can also be in the shape of a support. As an example, the main body L2408 is shown. The main body L2408 has a support 1201, and is equipped with electrodes E1202 and F1203 corresponding to electrodes A1702 and B1703. The electrodes E1202 and F1203 are connected to the controller via a harness F1208. Figure 13A In FIG, the electrodes E1202 and F1203 are configured to contact the back of the hand, and the harness F1208 is also set inside the support 1201, so it cannot be directly seen from the outside, and its position is shown by a dotted line. Figure 13A In FIG. 1 , the case where the controller A1704 is used is shown. Figure 13A The support 1201 may also be made of an insulating material, such as cotton or other cloth, or leather, rubber, silicon, or the like.

[0102] like Figure 13AAs shown, electrodes E1202 and F1203 are configured, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As the position of configuring the electrodes, 13A to 13C The multiple areas enclosed by dotted lines are preferred because electrodes can reliably contact the skin. Hereinafter, these areas where electrodes are preferably placed are referred to as electrode areas. Two electrode areas are selected from these electrode areas, and one electrode is placed in each area. Alternatively, two electrodes are placed in one of these electrode areas. For example, electrodes may be placed at the base of the thumb and between the base of the little finger and the wrist. Figure 13B The electrode area on the back of the hand is shown. Figure 13C The electrode areas on the palm side are shown.

[0103] Figure 14 Another modification is shown. Figure 13A The structure in which the electrodes are arranged on the support 1201 is not limited thereto. As one of the electrodes, the main body M2509 using the ring J1001 or the ring K1002 may also be used. Figure 14 Show instead Figure 13A In the example, the ring K1002 is used instead of the electrode E1202, but the ring K1002 may be used instead of the electrode F1203.

[0104] Figure 15 Another modification is shown. Figure 13A wait, Figure 14 An example of the shape of the support for the wrist is shown in FIG, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Figure 15 As shown, the main body N2610 is shown as an example of a glove shape. The main body N2610 has a glove 1401, and is equipped with electrodes E1202 and F1203 corresponding to electrodes A1702 and B1703. The electrodes E1202 and F1203 are connected to the controller via a harness M1402. Figure 15 The use of controller A1704 is shown in FIG. The gloves 1401 can be made of the same insulating material as the support 1201, and can be made of cloth such as cotton, or leather, rubber, silicon, etc. Figure 15 In the case of such a glove-shaped body, Figure 13B 、 Figure 13C As for the electrode area shown, electrodes can be configured on the surface of each finger covered by the glove and on each finger, but since ring-shaped rings A2101, J1001, and K1002 are not required, wearing the electrodes becomes simple.

[0105] Unlike the above-mentioned embodiments and variations, the electrodes and the main body may be placed on a device that contacts the extremities or the vicinity of the extremities rather than being worn on the extremities of the limbs. For example, the electrodes and the main body may be placed on a keyboard or mouse used when using a personal computer, a steering wheel, accelerator, or brake used when driving a motorcycle or car, or a pen or smartphone.

[0106] 16A to 16D These examples are shown. Figure 16A The figure shows the case of using a mouse. The mouse 1501 has a left button 1502, a right button 1503, and a main body 1504 for contact with the palm. Electrodes G1505 and H1506 can also be configured on the main body 1504. As a controller, a controller A1704 can be configured on the main body 1504 and connected to the electrodes G1505 and H1506. The configuration of the electrodes can be as follows: Figure 16A As shown, the electrode is placed at the proximal end of the main body 1504, where the thumb contacts the part of the hand near the wrist. Alternatively, the electrode G1505 may be placed on the right side of the main body 1504, where the little finger contacts the body, and current flows through the thumb and little finger via the electrode G1505 and the electrode H1506 placed on the thumb side. Alternatively, the electrodes G1505 and H1506 may be placed at the proximal end of the main body 1504.

[0107] Alternatively, the left key 1502 or the right key 1503 may be formed of a conductive component instead of the electrode G1505, or the electrode G1505 may be arranged on the left key 1502 or the right key 1503, and the current may flow through the thumb and the index and middle fingers. Alternatively, the above-mentioned electrical signal may be supplied to the palm and fingers via the left key 1502 or the right key 1503 and the electrode H1506 arranged on the main body 1504. Alternatively, the electrode H1506 may be arranged on the left key 1502, or at least the surface of the left key 1502 may be used as a conductor, and the electrode G1505 may be arranged on the right key 1503, or at least the surface of the right key 1503 may be used as a conductor, and the current may flow through the index and middle fingers. Furthermore, for example, Figure 16A Configure switch A1705 and LED-A1706 like this.

[0108] Figure 16B This is an example of a case where the present invention is implemented on a notebook personal computer. Figure 16B As shown, the personal computer 1511 is provided with electrodes J1514 and K1515 on the left side of the touch pad area 1513 for operating the mouse pointer near the keyboard area 1512, and is connected to a controller provided inside the personal computer 1511. The controller may be any of the above-mentioned controllers. Figure 16BIn the embodiment, the electrodes are located on the left side of touchpad area 1513, but this is not limiting. Alternatively, they may be located on the right side or on both sides of touchpad area 1513 to supply the aforementioned electrical signals to the palms of both hands. The electrical signals supplied via electrodes J 1514 and K 1515 can be controlled by an application installed in personal computer 1511.

[0109] Figure 16C This is an example of a case where the present invention is implemented on a steering wheel of a car. Figure 16C As shown, electrodes L1522 and M1523 are configured on the steering wheel 1521 and are connected to a controller configured inside the steering wheel 1521. Figure 16C Switch A1705 and LED-A1706 are configured in this manner. The controller may be any of the aforementioned controllers. Electrode L1522 and electrode M1523 are located on the right side of the steering wheel, but the present invention is not limited thereto. They may also be located on the left side, or on both the left and right sides. Furthermore, electrode L1522 and electrode M1523 are located on the front side of the steering wheel, but the present invention is not limited thereto. They may also be located on the side, or one may be located on the front and the other on the side. Furthermore, the present invention may be applied to the handlebars of a motorcycle or bicycle, rather than a car steering wheel, by configuring electrodes L1522 and electrode M1523.

[0110] Figure 16D This is an example of implementing the present invention on a mobile terminal. Figure 16D As shown, electrodes P1533 and Q1534 are arranged on both sides of the housing 1532 or display portion 1535 of the smartphone 1531 and are connected to a controller arranged inside the housing 1532. The controller may be any of the aforementioned controllers. For example, the controller A1704 may be arranged inside the housing 1532 and connected to the electrodes P1533 and Q1534. The electrodes P1533 and Q1534 are arranged on the lower halves of both sides of the housing 1532, but are not limited to this. They may also be arranged on the upper halves, or on the upper and lower sides of either the right or left side. The electrical signals supplied via the electrodes P1533 and Q1534 can be controlled by an application installed on the smartphone 1531.

[0111] exist 16A to 16DIn the example of , the controller and the electrodes can also be provided separately. For example, in the case of a mouse, the controller can be configured on a personal computer connected to the mouse, and an application installed in the personal computer can be used to control the electrical signals supplied to the limbs or their vicinity via the electrodes. In the case of a steering wheel, it is also possible not to configure it on the steering wheel, for example, to configure it on the instrument panel, etc., and to control the electrical signals supplied to the human body using, for example, the user interface of a car navigation system. Alternatively, the controller can be configured on a mouse or steering wheel, but the user interface of a personal computer or car navigation system can be used to control the start and stop of the output.

[0112] In the above 7A to 16D In each figure, since a weak, non-inductive electric current is used as the supplied electric signal, the user will not feel pain or discomfort, and since the electric current cannot be felt, the user is not affected by the supplied electric signal at all, even when driving, working in the office, using a computer such as typing, operating a mouse, or performing detailed manual operations (hereinafter referred to as operations). The user can easily and effortlessly perform these operations while supplying the electric signal, and can continue without any pressure caused by the electric signal. Furthermore, the electric signal of the present invention is also used in these operations. Since the operation can be continued while the autonomic nervous system is always balanced, not only is the operation efficiency improved, but the operation can also be continued safely. For example, in the case of long-term driving or at night, since the use of the electric signal of the present invention can be used to drive while the autonomic nervous system is always balanced, the parasympathetic nervous system is prevented from becoming dominant, and the user can continue to drive safely without feeling sleepy and can prevent fatigue driving. The electrical signals of the present invention can also be used during extended periods of personal computer use, including at night. This constant use of the electrical signals allows the user to use the computer while maintaining a balanced autonomic nervous system. This prevents the parasympathetic nervous system from becoming dominant, preventing drowsiness and improving concentration, allowing continuous, effortless, and error-free work. Furthermore, the balance of the autonomic nervous system can also be expected to yield secondary benefits such as increased concentration, making it suitable for office work, manual labor, and driving.

[0113] In the above-described embodiments and various modifications, the electrical signal used is a pulse group using a rectangular wave, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a triangular wave may be used instead of a rectangular wave, an impulse train using multiple impulses may be used, or a sine wave may be used instead of a pulse group. Furthermore, the electrical signal may have positive and negative amplitudes, or a unipolar waveform having only positive or negative amplitudes. Alternatively, the electrical signal is not limited to one having equal positive and negative amplitudes; the positive and negative amplitudes may be different, the shapes of the positive and negative waveforms may be modified, or the waveforms may be offset.

[0114] The fifth signal frequency in the present invention is 5 Hz, but the present invention is not limited thereto. An electrical signal that can be expected to improve the balance of the autonomic nervous system, such as a direct current, is suitable. Among them, if it is a direct current in which the current continues to flow, when the electrode used is deteriorated, or when pollution, dust, or impurities are generated or attached, there is a tendency for the conductivity on the contact surface between the skin and the electrode to decrease and the current to be easily concentrated, and when direct current is used, the current concentration tends to be maintained at the same position for a long time. Since the long-term current concentration in the case of a weak current value of about 300 μA may also cause adverse conditions such as skin burns, discoloration, and blisters, it is not preferred. Therefore, in this modified example, instead of direct current, an electrical signal with an alternating current component is given, thereby preventing the occurrence of current concentration, and even in the case of current concentration, it is avoided or reduced to continue at the same position, and adverse conditions caused by current concentration can be avoided.

[0115] The frequency of the AC component to be determined does not necessarily need to be DC, that is, it does not need to be 0 Hz. For example, a frequency of around 0.1 Hz increases the tendency to act as DC, which is not preferred. A frequency of 0.5 Hz or higher is preferred, and 1 Hz or higher is ideal. Consequently, an ultra-low frequency of 1 Hz or higher and 8 Hz or lower is most preferred. In this embodiment, 5 Hz is used as the ultra-low frequency.

[0116] On the other hand, if the frequency of the AC component is increased, the electrical signal may produce the same effect as DC. For example, when applying an electrical signal such as the present invention, if it is around 100 Hz, the same effect as DC is obtained. Therefore, for such a relatively high frequency, for example, 300 Hz can be used.

[0117] The above examples are all examples for use with the human body, but the present invention can also be applied to other organisms other than the human body (hereinafter referred to as organisms). As examples of organisms, for example, organisms such as lions and giraffes that are raised in zoos can be used, or organisms such as dogs and cats that are raised as pets in ordinary households can be used. The present invention can also be applied to livestock such as cattle, horses, pigs, chickens, goats, and sheep. Here, livestock are used as an example for explanation. Livestock are often raised in relatively narrow places, such as in the case of cattle, in cow pens. Due to lack of exercise, being confined to a narrow place, or stress caused by other factors, there is an imbalance of the autonomic nervous system. If this situation continues for a long period of time, the development and health status will be affected. In the case of dairy cows, the yield and quality of milk will be affected, and in the case of beef cattle, the meat quality will be greatly affected.

[0118] Therefore, by using the device embodying the present invention on a living organism, such as a cow, stress can be alleviated by regulating the balance of the autonomic nervous system, improving milk and meat quality. The device used in this case can use the main body A used in the above example, or this modified example. However, depending on the living organism, the size of the belt portion A1701 and the material used to increase strength may need to be modified, for example, to enable use on the toes of a cow.

[0119] The main body described above does not require a particularly large circuit structure or battery, and the organism will not feel the pressure related to its size and weight. Not only is the new pressure caused by wearing eliminated immediately, but the above-mentioned non-sensory output is also imperceptible in the organism, so the organism is not aware that electrical stimulation is being given, and there is no further pressure caused by using the device implementing the present invention. However, in the early stage of wearing, the organism will notice that it is wearing an unfamiliar device, so if there is a licking or biting, and if the switch is accidentally pressed or damaged, it is considered necessary to cover the switch with a cover and increase the strength of the controller and the belt. Alternatively, a structure that removes the switch from the main body and uses wireless remote control from the outside can avoid unwanted switch operation and switch damage caused by licking or biting by the organism, so it is more suitable.

[0120] When the device of the present invention is used on a living organism, there are cases where the electrodes used, such as the aforementioned electrodes A1702 and B1703, are not suitable for use as they are. Since the limbs of a living organism are usually covered with body hair, sufficient current cannot be supplied to the limbs. Therefore, rather than using electrodes made of conductive resins or metals as electrodes A1702 and B1703, it is preferable to use an elastic body with strong elasticity, such as conductive rubber or conductive fiber, so that the current from the electrodes can be fully supplied to the limbs. Alternatively, a conductive gel with a high viscosity can be coated on the surface of electrodes A1702 and B1703 to enable sufficient current to be supplied to the limbs of the living organism.

[0121] By using the device of the present invention on a living body, the following effects can be expected. The effects listed below can be expected not only individually, but also as multiple effects at the same time. One of the effects is to suppress the excessive activity of the sympathetic nerves. The reason why the sympathetic nerves dominate is not limited to a specific reason. For example, the pressure caused by being confined to a narrow room or indoors can be cited. In addition, the pressure caused by weather such as abnormally low temperature, high temperature, typhoon, strong wind, continuous rain, dryness, the situation of vigilance caused by construction being carried out nearby, poor physical condition, changes in physical condition accompanied by pregnancy, etc. can also be cited. On the contrary, the reason why the parasympathetic nerves dominate is often due to lack of sleep, fatigue, or aging. In addition, the factors that cause the imbalance of the autonomic nervous system can also include the presence or absence of food, season or seasonal changes, visceral disease, injury, etc.

[0122] For the above-mentioned imbalance of the autonomic nerves, by using the present invention, the above-mentioned electrical signals are supplied to the limbs of the organism, which not only releases the stress of the organism by regulating the balance of the autonomic nerves, but also maintains the functions against injuries and diseases of the organism in a healthy state, and can be used to maintain and manage the physical condition of the organism, such as improving and maintaining a healthy state. As a secondary effect of releasing stress and improving physical condition, it can also be expected to accelerate the improvement of allergic symptoms and the cure of injuries and diseases.

[0123] By using the device of the present invention on a living body, other effects can be expected. The so-called other effect is the control of activity. For example, the activity of an elderly living body itself decreases, and there is a tendency for the parasympathetic nerves to dominate, which leads to insufficient exercise and induces muscle weakness, joint disorders, and visceral diseases caused by insufficient exercise. Therefore, as described above, using the subject implementing the present invention or through a device with a function that can output pulses equivalent to these, the electrical signals of the present invention are supplied to the limbs and vicinity of the living body, thereby preventing the parasympathetic nerves from excessively dominating, preventing the activity and activity of the living body from decreasing, eliminating insufficient exercise, and maintaining and managing the physical condition of the living body. Conversely, for a living body in which the sympathetic nerves are excessively dominant, by supplying the electrical signals of the present invention to the limbs and vicinity of the living body, the sympathetic nerves can be prevented from excessively dominating, and insomnia and insufficient sleep can be eliminated, thereby eliminating the stress caused by sleep disorders, and maintaining and managing the physical condition of the living body. These effects can also be expected for the human body.

[0124] The device of the present invention can not only manage the health of organisms, but also control the quality of livestock. For example, in the case of beef cattle, by using the device of the present invention on individuals in which the parasympathetic nerves tend to dominate, a balance of the autonomic nervous system can be achieved and the parasympathetic nerves can be prevented from excessively dominating, and the activity of the sympathetic nerves can be enhanced (restored to normal) to increase the activity of the beef cattle and prevent the so-called lean meat rate from decreasing. Alternatively, by using the device of the present invention on individuals in which the sympathetic nerves tend to dominate, it is possible to prevent the sympathetic nerves from excessively dominating, enhance the activity of the parasympathetic nerves (restored to normal) and limit the activity of the beef cattle to adjust the hardness and lipid content of the meat, for example, to make the meat soft and prevent the so-called marbling rate from decreasing. In this case, since the livestock's movement is not forcibly restricted and no exercise is forced, no stress is placed on the livestock.

[0125] In the above, by using the extremities and the vicinity thereof Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B In the treatment method of using an electric signal to treat a disease, there are descriptions of the use of non-inductive output and very weak inductive output (the combination of the two is called weak current), but this does not mean that only weak current is effective in this treatment method. Figure 1 The same effect can be obtained by attaching the electrode pads A111 and B112 to the extremities of the wrist and other limbs, and supplying a current of, for example, several mA to 20 mA. In this case, since the current stimulation device 1 is large and supplies an electric signal of relatively large amplitude to the wrist and other limbs, it can be used by the patient while sitting comfortably on a chair or lying on a bed, compared to treatments at work. In addition, it can also be Figure 1 The current stimulation device 1 can output a weak current, that is, the waveform generating unit 204 can also output a weak current. In the above-mentioned method of using a weak current for the extremities and the vicinity thereof, it can also be changed to Figure 3A 、 Figure 3B The electrical signal and use Figure 17 As the parameters used, as described above, for example, an electrical signal having a frequency of 5 Hz or 300 Hz, a pulse width of 50 msec, and an amplitude of 50 μA or 300 μA may be repeatedly output every second at intervals of a certain time T (e.g., 2 seconds).

[0126] This international application claims the benefit of priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-34960 filed on February 27, 2019, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-230731 filed on December 20, 2019, and the entire contents of Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-34960 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-230731 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0127] Description of Reference Numerals

[0128] 1…current stimulation device; 11…main body; 12…stop switch; 14…connector; 15…main power supply; 16…electrical wire; 17…control device; 18…encoder; 105…switch; 111…electrode pad A; 112…electrode pad B; 114…display; 201…user IF; 203…control; 204…waveform generator; 205…memory; 206…power supply; 207…timer; 208…terminal A; 209…terminal B; 301…first electric signal; 302…second electric signal; 303…third electric signal; 304…fourth electric signal; 305…fifth electric signal Electrical signal; 1001…Ring J; 1002…Ring K; 1006…Connector J; 1007…Cable J; 1008…Harness E; 1107…Cable K; 1201…Support; 1202…Electrode E; 1203…Electrode F; 1208…Harness F; 1401…Glove; 1402…Harness M; 1501…Mouse; 1502…Left button; 1503…Right button; 1504…Main body; 1505…Electrode G; 1506…Electrode H; 1511…Personal computer; 1512…Keyboard area; 1513…Touchpad area; 1514…Electrode J; 1515…Electrode K; 1521…steering wheel; 1522…electrode L; 1523…electrode M; 1531…smartphone; 1532…housing; 1533…electrode P; 1534…electrode Q; 1535…display; 1700…main body A; 1701…belt A; 1702…electrode A; 1703…electrode B; 1704…controller A; 1705…switch A; 1706…LED-A; 1707…extensible part A; 1708…wiring harness A; 1773…battery; 1803…main body C; 1900…cable M; 1901…mounting part; 1902…terminal part A; 190 3…Terminal section B; 1904…Main body D; 1905…Controller D; 1906…Switch B; 1907…LED-B; 1908…Connector K; 1909…Wiring B; 2100…Main body H; 2101…Ring A; 2102…Electrode C; 2103…Electrode D; 2104…Terminal section C; 2105…Terminal section D; 2106…Connector H; 2107…Cable H; 2108…Wiring C; 2109…Wiring D; 2110…Bracelet; 2206…Main body J; 2307…Main body K; 2408…Main body L; 2509…Main body M; 2610…Main body N.

Claims

1. A current stimulation device, characterized in that: have: a waveform generating unit for outputting an electrical signal during a treatment period; A control unit, configured to control the waveform generating unit; a set of electrodes for supplying the output electrical signal; and a power supply unit for supplying power to the waveform generating unit and the control unit; The electrical signal is a fifth electrical signal composed of a first electrical signal, a second electrical signal, a third electrical signal, and a fourth electrical signal, wherein the amplitude of the first electrical signal increases from a first amplitude that is not zero, the second electrical signal is an electrical signal output after the first electrical signal and has a second amplitude, the third electrical signal is an electrical signal output after the second electrical signal and has an amplitude that decreases toward the third amplitude, and the fourth electrical signal has a fourth amplitude that is not zero. The duration of the fifth electrical signal is defined as a fifth duration. The fifth electrical signal is output for a duration that is one of a plurality of the fifth durations. When the fifth electrical signal is repeatedly output, the fifth duration is variably controlled to different durations according to a series of predetermined controls. According to the change of the fifth duration, at least one of the first duration of the first electrical signal, the second duration of the second electrical signal, the third duration of the third electrical signal, and the fourth duration of the fourth electrical signal is controlled. During the treatment time, the frequencies of the second electrical signal and the fourth electrical signal are the same. The first amplitude, the second amplitude, and the third amplitude are amplitudes that cause muscle contraction.

Images