Muscle activity output system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a muscle activity output system. The muscle activity output system includes a muscle activity database configured to hold movable member posture information and muscle activity information in a manner that the movable member posture information and the muscle activity information are associated with each other, and a processor. The movable member posture information indicates a posture of a movable member of an exercise device. The muscle activity information indicates a muscle activity of each of a plurality of muscle sites of an exerciser. The processor is configured to acquire the movable member posture information while the exerciser moves a body along a trajectory, acquire current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle sites based on current movable member posture information of the exercise device and the muscle activity database, and output the current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle sites.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to muscle activation output systems, muscle activation output methods, and non-transitory storage media. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 10-94577 (JP10-94577A) discloses a pedal exercise device for seated posture. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Surface electromyography (EMG) sensors for measuring electromyographic potentials, which are action potentials generated during the contraction of muscle fibers, are known in the art. By attaching a surface EMG sensor to the skin closest to the muscle site to be monitored, muscle activity at that site can be monitored.

[0004] However, using surface electromyography (SEMG) sensors to monitor muscle activity has the following problems. SEMG sensors can only monitor the muscle region to which they are attached. Therefore, when it is desirable to monitor the muscle activity of a large number of muscle regions simultaneously, a large number of SEMG sensors need to be attached to the desired region each time. This is cumbersome.

[0005] Surface electromyography (EMG) sensors can only monitor muscle activity in surface muscles. Needle electrodes are needed to monitor muscle activity in deep muscles. However, needle electrodes cannot be used during exercise.

[0006] This disclosure provides a technique for monitoring the current muscle activity of various muscle sites, including deep muscles.

[0007] A muscle activity output system according to a first aspect of this disclosure includes: a muscle activity database configured to store the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information with each other; and a processor. The movable part posture information indicates the posture of a movable part of the training device when the exerciser moves their body along a trajectory defined by the training device. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of a plurality of muscle parts of the exerciser. The training device is a device that applies a load to the muscles of the exerciser. The processor is configured to acquire the movable part posture information while the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The processor is configured to acquire current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle parts based on the current movable part posture information of the training device and the muscle activity database. The processor is configured to output the current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle parts.

[0008] The above configuration allows for monitoring the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles. Therefore, it's possible to check whether muscles to be activated have already been activated and whether muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. This allows for checking whether the exercise being performed by the trainee is suitable for their purpose, thus achieving efficient training. Furthermore, presenting the activated muscles to the trainee on the training mannequin allows the trainee to pay attention to those muscles while exercising. Therefore, improved training effectiveness can be expected.

[0009] In the muscle activation output system according to the first aspect of this disclosure, the training device may be a pedal exercise device in which an exerciser performs pedaling exercises while seated. The posture information of the movable part of the training device may be crank angle information indicating the crank angle of the pedal exercise device.

[0010] In the muscle activity output system according to the first aspect of this disclosure, the muscle activity database can be configured to store the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information with exercise condition information indicating the exerciser's exercise conditions. The processor can be configured to acquire the exercise condition information. The processor can be configured to acquire current muscle activity information for each of multiple muscle sites based on the current movable part posture information of the training device, the exercise condition information, and the muscle activity database. With the above configuration, the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle sites, including deep muscles, can be accurately grasped.

[0011] In the muscle activity output system according to the first aspect of this disclosure, the muscle activity database can be configured to store the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information with the exerciser's body-specific information. The processor can be configured to acquire the body-specific information. The processor can be configured to acquire the current muscle activity information of each of multiple muscle groups based on the current movable part posture information of the training device, the body-specific information, and the muscle activity database. With the above configuration, the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles, can be accurately grasped.

[0012] In a muscle activity output system according to a first aspect of this disclosure, the muscle activity information can indicate the muscle activity of the deep muscles of an exerciser.

[0013] A muscle activity output method according to a second aspect of this disclosure includes: acquiring movable part posture information while an exerciser moves their body along a trajectory defined by a training device that applies load to the exerciser's muscles; acquiring current muscle activity information for each of a plurality of muscle sites based on the current movable part posture information of the training device and a muscle activity database; and outputting the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle sites. The movable part posture information indicates the posture of the movable parts of the training device as the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The muscle activity database is configured to store the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates them with each other. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of the plurality of muscle sites in the exerciser.

[0014] By employing the methods described above, it is possible to monitor the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles. This allows for the detection of whether muscles to be activated have already been activated and whether muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the exercise being performed is appropriate for the individual's goals, thus achieving highly efficient training.

[0015] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory storage medium stores instructions executable by one or more processors and causing the processors to perform functions. These functions include: acquiring movable part posture information while the exerciser moves their body along a trajectory defined by a training device that applies load to the exerciser's muscles; acquiring current muscle activity information for each of a plurality of muscle sites based on the current movable part posture information of the training device and a muscle activity database; and outputting the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle sites. The movable part posture information indicates the posture of the movable parts of the training device as the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The muscle activity database is configured to store the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates them with each other. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of the plurality of muscle sites of the exerciser.

[0016] Using the aforementioned non-temporary storage medium, since the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles, can be monitored, it is possible to check whether muscle groups to be activated have already been activated and whether muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, it is possible to check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser is suitable for his or her purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0017] A muscle activity output system according to a fourth aspect of this disclosure includes: a muscle activity database configured to store the movable part posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the movable part posture information with each other; and a processor. The movable part posture information indicates the posture of a movable part of the training device when the exerciser moves their body along a trajectory defined by the training device. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of a plurality of muscle sites of the exerciser. The training device is a device that applies a load to the muscles of the exerciser. The processor is configured to acquire the exerciser's body posture information while the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The processor is configured to convert the body posture information into the movable part posture information. The processor is configured to acquire current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle sites based on the current movable part posture information of the training device and the muscle activity database. The processor is configured to output the current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle sites.

[0018] With the above configuration, it is possible to monitor the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles, and thus check whether the muscles to be activated have already been activated and whether the muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, it is possible to check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser is suitable for his or her purpose. Consequently, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0019] The muscle activity output method according to the fifth aspect of this disclosure includes: acquiring body posture information of an exerciser while the exerciser moves their body along a trajectory defined by a training device that applies load to the exerciser's muscles; converting the body posture information into movable component posture information; acquiring current muscle activity information for each of a plurality of muscle sites based on the current movable component posture information of the training device and a muscle activity database; and outputting the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle sites. The movable component posture information indicates the posture of the movable components of the training device when the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The muscle activity database is configured to store the movable component posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the movable component posture information with each other. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of the plurality of muscle sites of the exerciser.

[0020] By employing the methods described above, it is possible to monitor the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles. This allows for the detection of whether muscles to be activated have already been activated and whether muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether the exercise being performed is appropriate for the individual's goals, thus achieving highly efficient training.

[0021] According to the sixth aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory storage medium stores instructions executable by one or more processors and causing the one or more processors to perform functions. These functions include: acquiring body posture information of an exerciser while the exerciser moves their body along a trajectory defined by a training device that applies load to the exerciser's muscles; converting the body posture information into movable component posture information; acquiring current muscle activity information for each of a plurality of muscle sites based on the current movable component posture information of the training device and a muscle activity database; and outputting the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle sites. The movable component posture information indicates the posture of the movable components of the training device when the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The muscle activity database is configured to store the movable component posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the movable component posture information and the muscle activity information with each other. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of the plurality of muscle sites of the exerciser.

[0022] Using the aforementioned non-temporary storage medium, since the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles, can be monitored, it is possible to check whether muscle groups to be activated have already been activated and whether muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, it is possible to check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser is suitable for his or her purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0023] A muscle activity output system according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure includes: a muscle activity database configured to store the body posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates the body posture information and the muscle activity information with each other; and a processor. The body posture information indicates the exerciser's body posture when the exerciser moves their body along a predetermined trajectory. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of a plurality of muscle parts of the exerciser. The processor is configured to acquire the body posture information while the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory. The processor is configured to acquire current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle parts based on the exerciser's current body posture information and the muscle activity database. The processor is configured to output the current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle parts.

[0024] In the muscle activation output system according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure, the exerciser's body posture may include the joint angles of the exerciser's body joints.

[0025] In the muscle activity output system according to the seventh embodiment of this disclosure, the muscle activity information can indicate the muscle activity of the deep muscles of the exerciser.

[0026] The muscle activity output method according to the eighth embodiment of this disclosure includes: acquiring body posture information while the exerciser moves their body along a predetermined trajectory; acquiring current muscle activity information for each of a plurality of muscle parts based on the exerciser's current body posture information and the muscle activity database; and outputting the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle parts. The body posture information indicates the exerciser's body posture when the exerciser moves their body along the predetermined trajectory. The muscle activity database is configured to store the body posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates them with each other. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of the plurality of muscle parts of the exerciser.

[0027] By employing the methods described above, it is possible to monitor the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles, and thus check whether the muscles to be activated have been activated and whether the muscles not to be activated have not been activated. Therefore, the exerciser can check whether the exercise they are performing is suitable for their goals, thereby achieving highly efficient training.

[0028] According to the ninth aspect of this disclosure, a non-transitory storage medium stores instructions executable by one or more processors and causing said processors to perform functions. These functions include: acquiring body posture information while the exerciser moves their body along a predetermined trajectory; acquiring current muscle activity information for each of a plurality of muscle parts based on the exerciser's current body posture information and the muscle activity database; and outputting the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle parts. The body posture information indicates the exerciser's body posture when the exerciser moves their body along the predetermined trajectory. The muscle activity database is configured to store the body posture information and the muscle activity information in a manner that associates them with each other. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of the plurality of muscle parts of the exerciser.

[0029] Based on the aforementioned non-temporary storage medium, since it is possible to monitor the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles, it is possible to check whether muscle groups to be activated have already been activated and whether muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, it is possible to check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser is suitable for his or her purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0030] Based on the above configuration, it is possible to monitor the current muscle activity of each of multiple muscle groups, including deep muscles. Therefore, it is possible to check whether muscle groups to be activated have already been activated and whether muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Thus, it is possible to check whether the exercise being performed by the trainee is suitable for his or her purpose. Therefore, efficient exercise is achieved. Furthermore, presenting the muscles being activated to the trainee on the exercise mannequin allows the trainee to pay attention to those muscles while exercising. Therefore, it is expected to improve exercise effectiveness. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements, and wherein:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a side view of the pedal exercise device (first embodiment);

[0033] Figure 2 This is a side view of the pedal exercise device (first embodiment);

[0034] Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram of the muscle activation output system (first embodiment);

[0035] Figure 4 The figure illustrates the relationship between crank angle and muscle activity (first embodiment);

[0036] Figure 5 The figure illustrates the relationship between crank angle and muscle activity (first embodiment);

[0037] Figure 6 The structure of the muscle activity database is shown (first embodiment);

[0038] Figure 7 An example of a touch panel display (first embodiment) is shown;

[0039] Figure 8 This is an operation flowchart of the muscle activation output system (first embodiment);

[0040] Figure 9 This is a functional block diagram of the muscle activation output system (second embodiment);

[0041] Figure 10 This is an operation flowchart of the muscle activation output system (second embodiment);

[0042] Figure 11 This is a functional block diagram of the muscle activation output system (third embodiment); and

[0043] Figure 12This is an operation flowchart of the muscle activation output system (third embodiment). Detailed Implementation

[0044] The present disclosure will be described below based on the first to third embodiments. The disclosure in the claims is not limited to the following embodiments. Not all configurations described in the embodiments are necessary as a means of solving the problem. For clarity, appropriate omissions and simplifications are made in the following description and drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same elements are represented by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted as necessary.

[0045] First Embodiment

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 8 A first embodiment of this disclosure is described. In the first embodiment, a pedal exercise device will be described as an example of a training device. The training device is a pedal exercise device (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "exercise device") for an exerciser to perform pedaling exercises. The muscle activity output system and muscle activity output method according to this embodiment perform processing to output current muscle activity information of various muscle parts, including deep muscles, during training using the pedal exercise device. For example, the muscle activity output system and muscle activity output method output the current muscle activity information of each muscle part to the exerciser performing the pedaling exercise or an assistant assisting the exerciser in performing the pedaling exercise via a display. The exerciser or assistant can thus grasp the current muscle activity of each muscle part, including deep muscles. Therefore, the exerciser or assistant can check whether the muscle parts to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle parts not to be activated have not been activated. Therefore, the exerciser or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser is suitable for the exerciser's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved. Furthermore, presenting the muscles being activated to the exerciser on the exercise mannequin allows the exerciser to pay attention to those muscles while exercising. Therefore, it is expected to improve the exercise effect.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 Describe the exercise device 100. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The exercise device 100 is shown as viewed from the side. For clarity, the following description will be given using a three-dimensional XYZ Cartesian coordinate system. Specifically, the +X direction is the forward (front) direction, the -X direction is the backward (backward) direction, the +Y direction is the up (up) direction, the -Y direction is the down (down) direction, the +Z direction is the left direction, and the -Z direction is the right direction. The front-back (front-back), lateral (left-right), and vertical (up-down) directions are based on the normal gaze direction of the exerciser U during exercise.

[0048] The exercise device 100 can adjust the range of motion of the ankle joint. In the following description, the direction of rotation of the ankle joint about the Z-axis is referred to as the "plantar flexion / dorsiflexion direction", and the angle of rotation is referred to as the "plantar flexion / dorsiflexion angle". More specifically, the direction in which the toes of the foot FT move downward is referred to as the "plantar flexion direction", and the direction in which the toes of the foot FT move upward is referred to as the "dorsiflexion direction".

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the exercise device 100 includes a main body 20, a connecting rod 30, a crank (movable part) 40, and an inclined base 50. A chair 10 is placed behind the exercise device 100. The exerciser U performs pedaling exercises while sitting on the chair 10. The exerciser U performs pedaling exercises while in a seated position. The chair 10 thus serves as a seating part for the exerciser U. The chair 10 can be integrated with the exercise device 100 or can be a separate component from the exercise device 100. For example, the chair 10 can be a chair in the facility or home where the exerciser U is located. That is, the exerciser U or an assistant can place the chair 10 behind the exercise device 100.

[0050] The chair 10 includes a seat 11 serving as a seating section and a backrest 12. The backrest 12 supports the back of the exerciser U who is seated on the seat 11. That is, the exerciser U can perform pedaling exercises while leaning against the backrest 12. The chair 10 can be replaced or adjusted for individual exercisers U. For example, an exerciser U performing heavy load training can use a chair 10 without a backrest 12. Alternatively, the backrest 12 can have a tilting mechanism. The angle of the backrest 12 can be adjusted by the tilting mechanism.

[0051] In the exercise device 100, the components attached to the main body 20 are symmetrical. Figure 2 In order to distinguish between the left and right parts, the reference numerals of the parts on the right side of the main body 20 end with the letter "R", and the reference numerals of the parts on the left side of the main body 20 end with the letter "L". For example, in Figure 2 In the diagram, the left tilt base 50 is shown as tilt base 50L, and the right tilt base 50 is shown as tilt base 50R. Similarly, the left link 30 is shown as link 30L, the left pedal 31 is shown as pedal 31L, the right link 30 is shown as link 30R, and the right pedal 31 is shown as pedal 31R. Likewise, the left foot FT is shown as left foot FTL, and the right foot FT is shown as right foot FTR. In the following description, the letters “R” and “L” will be omitted when left and right parts are not distinguished from each other.

[0052] The main body 20 rotatably holds the crank 40. For example, the main body 20 is provided with a rotating shaft 21. The crank 40 is connected to the rotating shaft 21. The crank 40 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the rotating shaft 21. The crank 40 rotates about the rotating shaft 21. The main body 20 may have a load-bearing element that applies a load to the rotational movement of the crank 40. The main body 20 may have gears or the like that can change the load.

[0053] The main body 20 is placed on the mounting base 15. The mounting base 15 is placed on the floor surface. For example, the front (front) portion of the main body 20 is on the mounting base 15, while the rear (back) portion of the main body 20 is on the floor surface. The mounting angle of the main body 20 can be changed by altering the height, position, etc., of the mounting base 15. For example, the main body 20 can be placed horizontally by removing the mounting base 15. The mounting angle of the main body 20 can be steepened by raising the mounting base 15. Therefore, the posture of the exerciser U during training can be changed by altering the height of the mounting base 15 or by removing the mounting base 15. Thus, the range of motion of the joints of the exerciser U during training can be adjusted. The presence or absence of the mounting base 15 is an example of the training conditions for the exerciser U using the exercise device 100.

[0054] The distance between the main body 20 and the chair 10 in the front-back direction can be varied according to the individual exerciser U. For example, the exerciser U can place the chair 10 near the main body 20. In this case, the exerciser U performs pedaling exercises with his or her knees, etc., relatively bent. Alternatively, the exerciser U can place the chair 10 away from the main body 20. In this case, the exerciser U trains with his or her knees, etc., relatively extended. Therefore, the posture of the exerciser U during training can be changed by altering the distance between the main body 20 and the chair 10 in the X direction. Thus, the range of motion of the joints of the exerciser U during training can be adjusted. The distance between the main body 20 and the exercise device 100 in the front-back direction is an example of the training conditions for the exerciser U using the exercise device 100.

[0055] Linkage 30 includes pedal 31 and pulley 35. Crank 40 is connected to the front end of linkage 30, and pulley 35 is connected to the rear end of linkage 30. Crank 40 and linkage 30 are rotatably connected to each other. For example, linkage 30 is attached to crank 40 via bearings or the like. Pedal 31 is attached to the middle position of linkage 30. Pedal 31 is a footrest (rest) for the exerciser U to place his or her foot FT. The seated exerciser U places his or her foot FT on pedal 31.

[0056] The sliding wheel 35 is attached to the connecting rod 30 via a rotating shaft (shaft). That is, the connecting rod 30 rotatably holds the sliding wheel 35. The sliding wheel 35 is a sliding member that slides on the inclined surface of the inclined base 50.

[0057] Exerciser U performs pedaling exercises with his or her foot FT positioned on pedal 31. That is, exerciser U moves his or her knee, hip, and ankle joints to step on pedal 31. Consequently, crank 40 rotates about axis of rotation 21. The angle between connecting rod 30 and crank 40 changes with the rotation of crank 40. That is, the relative angle of connecting rod 30 with respect to crank 40 changes with the rotation angle of crank 40 (also called the "crank angle"). The crank angle generally refers to the angle formed between a reference line extending forward (forward) from axis of rotation 21 and crank 40. Pulley 35 moves in the fore-and-aft direction while in contact with an inclined surface. Therefore, crank 40 and connecting rod 30 rotate with the pedaling motion, causing pedal 31 to follow an elliptical trajectory. That is, exerciser U applies load primarily to multiple muscles constituting the lower leg of exerciser U by moving his or her foot FT, placed on pedal 31, along an elliptical trajectory defined by exercise device 100.

[0058] For each of the left and right feet (FT) of the exerciser U, a pedal 31, a pulley 35, a connecting rod 30, a crank 40, and an inclined base 50 are provided. That is, the pedal 31, pulley 35, connecting rod 30, crank 40, and inclined base 50 are located on the left and right sides of the main body 20. The pedal 31R, pulley 35R, connecting rod 30R, and inclined base 50R are located on the right side of the main body 20 for the exerciser U's right foot (FTR). The pedal 31L, connecting rod 30L, and inclined base 50L are located on the left side of the main body 20 for the exerciser U's left foot (FTL).

[0059] Crank 40 is attached to the rotation axis 21 of the main body 20 to be antiphase between the left and right feet FT. That is, the rotation angle of crank 40 for the left foot and the rotation angle of crank 40 for the right foot are shifted by 180°. The exerciser U performs pedaling exercises by alternately bending and extending his or her left and right legs.

[0060] A sliding wheel 35 is attached to the lower end of the connecting rod 30. The sliding wheel 35 has a wheel that slides on the inclined surface of the inclined base 50. The inclined base 50 has an inclined surface that slopes upwards towards the rear. The sliding wheel 35 reciprocates in the X direction (front-back direction) as the connecting rod 30 rotates. Figure 2 As shown, when the exerciser U pedals in a direction that straightens his or her right leg and bends his or her left leg, the right sliding wheel 35 moves forward (towards) and the left sliding wheel 35 moves backward (towards). Figure 1 As shown, when the exerciser U pushes in the direction that straightens his or her left leg and bends his or her right leg, the left sliding wheel 35 moves forward (towards) and the right sliding wheel 35 moves backward (towards).

[0061] The height of the pulley 35 varies along the inclined surface of the inclined base 50. The inclined surface of the inclined base 50 rises towards the rear. That is, the inclined base 50 is an uphill slope for moving the pulley 35 backward. Therefore, as the pulley 35 moves backward, its height gradually increases. As the pulley 35 moves forward, its height gradually decreases. The angle of the connecting rod 30 is determined based on the height of the pulley 35.

[0062] The angle of the pedal 31 located on the connecting rod 30 is limited by the height of the pulley 35. That is, as the height of the pulley 35 increases, the pedal 31 rotates in the plantar flexion direction. As the height of the pulley 35 decreases, the pedal 31 rotates in the dorsiflexion direction. Therefore, the range of motion of the ankle joint in plantar flexion and dorsiflexion can be adjusted according to the tilt angle of the inclined base 50. The range of motion of the ankle joint in plantar flexion and dorsiflexion can be adjusted according to the rotation angle of the crank 40. The presence or absence of the inclined base 50 and the tilt angle of the inclined base 50 are examples of exercise conditions for the exerciser U using the exercise device 100.

[0063] Exerciser U uses exercise device 100 to perform pedaling exercises for training. That is, pedaling exercises can apply load to the muscles of exerciser U's lower limbs and trunk. Muscles that can be trained using exercise device 100 include the rectus abdominis, gluteus maximus, obturator externus, erector spinae, vastus medialis, vastus intermedius, rectus femoris, gastrocnemius, adductor brevis, biceps femoris, gluteus medius, plantar muscles, soleus, gluteus minimus, popliteus, tibialis anterior, iliacus, psoas major, and quadratus femoris. Among these muscle groups, the gluteus medius, plantar muscles, soleus, gluteus minimus, popliteus, iliacus, psoas major, and quadratus femoris are deep muscles whose muscle activity cannot be measured using electromyography (EMG) sensors.

[0064] Exercise conditions

[0065] The training conditions for the exerciser U using the exercise device 100 can be adjusted. That is, by appropriately adjusting various training conditions, training can be performed efficiently. The muscle groups that can be built up through pedaling exercises and the load applied to those muscle groups can be adjusted by appropriately adjusting various training conditions. This allows for efficient training. The training conditions for the exerciser U using the exercise device 100 do not need to be set and changed by the exerciser U, but can be set and changed by an assistant assisting the exerciser U in training. For example, the assistant could be a physical therapist or occupational therapist.

[0066] The exercise conditions of the exerciser U using the exercise device 100 can be divided into conditions related to the exercise device 100 and conditions related to the exerciser U.

[0067] The exercise conditions associated with the exercise device 100 include, for example, the rotational speed of the crank 40, the load on the crank 40, and the direction of rotation of the crank 40. For example, a heavy load can be applied to the muscles by increasing the rotational speed of the crank 40 or by increasing the load on the crank 40. The muscle area to which the load is applied can be changed by changing the direction of rotation of the crank 40.

[0068] The training conditions associated with the exercise device 100 include physical quantities that define the geometric arrangement of the exercise device 100. These training conditions include the distance between the chair 10 and the main body 20 in the fore-and-aft direction, the mounting angle (tilt angle) of the main body 20, the tilt angle of the pedal 31, the tilt angle of the tilt base 50, and the position of the tilt base 50 in the fore-and-aft direction. The range of motion of the ankle joint can be varied depending on the position of the tilt base 50 in the fore-and-aft direction and the tilt angle of the tilt base 50. The range of motion of the knee and hip joints is also varied by changing the distance between the main body 20 and the chair 10 in the fore-and-aft direction, the tilt angle of the main body 20, etc. In other words, the posture during training can be changed by altering these training conditions. The muscle groups to be developed and the load applied to the muscle groups can be adjusted by changing these training conditions.

[0069] Exercise conditions associated with the exercise device 100 include the presence or absence of a backrest 12. For example, a chair 10 with a removable backrest 12 may be prepared, which is removed when the exerciser U performs heavy load training. Alternatively, chairs 10 with and without backrests 12 may be prepared, and chairs 10 may be switched according to the training.

[0070] Exercise conditions associated with exerciser U are typically those related to exerciser U's posture and movement. Specific examples of such exercise conditions include the presence or absence of crossed arms and the presence or absence of arm swing. For instance, exerciser U can modify exercise conditions by choosing whether or not to swing their arms while performing a pedaling exercise. Alternatively, exerciser U can modify exercise conditions by choosing whether or not to cross their arms. Therefore, the muscle groups to be developed can be varied depending on exerciser U's posture or movement.

[0071] Next, we will refer to Figure 3 Describe the muscle activity output system 1. Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram of muscle activation output system 1. (Example) Figure 3 As shown, the muscle activation output system 1 includes a muscle activation output device 2 and an exercise device 100. The muscle activation output device 2 can be implemented by a single device or by distributed processing using multiple devices.

[0072] The muscle activation output device 2 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 2a as a central arithmetic processor (processor), a read-write random access memory (RAM) 2b, a read-only read-only memory (ROM) 2c, a muscle activation database (DB) 201, and a touch panel display 202. The CPU 2a reads and executes a control program stored in the ROM 2c. Therefore, the control program enables hardware such as the CPU to function as multiple functional units.

[0073] The functional units include a body-specific information acquisition unit 203, a training condition information acquisition unit 204, a crank angle information acquisition unit 205, a muscle activity information acquisition unit 206, and an output unit 207.

[0074] Muscle Activity DB 201 is a database that stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a way that links them together. Muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of various muscle groups in the exerciser U. Next, we will refer to... Figure 4 Describe it. Figure 4 The graph illustrates the relationship between crank angle information and muscle activity information when the exerciser U's height is 175cm, the crank rotation speed is 70rpm, the crank load is 7Nm, and the mounting base 15 is not installed. The horizontal axis represents the crank angle, and the vertical axis represents muscle activity. For example, the data for the soleus muscle is displayed using markers (circles). Figure 4 As shown, the muscle activity of various muscle groups in exerciser U changes with the crank angle. Specifically, muscle activity DB 201 stores the muscle activity of various muscle groups when the crank angle is 120 degrees, 118 degrees, 116 degrees, ... 30 degrees, and 10 degrees.

[0075] Next, we will refer to Figure 5 Describe it. Figure 5 The graph illustrates the relationship between crank angle information and muscle activity information when the exerciser U's height is 175cm, the crank rotation speed is 90rpm, the crank load is 3Nm, and the mounting base 15 is installed. The horizontal axis represents the crank angle, and the vertical axis represents the muscle activity of various muscle groups in the exerciser U. For example, the data for the soleus muscle is displayed using markers (circles). Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, when the exercise conditions of the exerciser U using the exercise device 100 change, the correspondence between the crank angle information and the muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of various muscle parts of the exerciser U also changes significantly. Similarly, when the height of the exerciser U changes, the correspondence between the crank angle information and the muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of various muscle parts of the exerciser U also changes significantly.

[0076] Therefore, in the muscle activity DB 201, for each exerciser U's height and each set of exercise conditions of the exerciser U using the exercise device 100, the correspondence between crank angle information and muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of each muscle part of the exerciser U is stored.

[0077] Figure 6 The diagram illustrates the structure of muscle-activating DB 201. Figure 6 In this context, height refers to the height of the exerciser U. Crank rotation speed, crank load, crank rotation direction, and exercise conditions 4-16 refer to the exercise conditions of the exerciser U using exercise device 100. The correspondence information is information indicating the correspondence between crank angle information and muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of various muscle parts of the exerciser U, which can be expressed as follows: Figure 4 and Figure 5 It is represented by a chart, as in the example. Figure 6 In the examples, Muscle Activity DB 201 includes data for heights of 145cm, 150cm, 155cm, 160cm, and 165cm. However, Muscle Activity DB 201 may actually include data for heights of 170cm, 175cm, 180cm, and 185cm. Muscle Activity DB 201 includes data for crank speeds of 30rpm, 40rpm, 50rpm, and 60rpm. However, Muscle Activity DB 201 may actually include data for crank speeds of 70rpm, 80rpm, 90rpm, and 100rpm. Muscle Activity DB 201 includes data for crank loads of 0.1Nm, 0.3Nm, 0.5Nm, 0.8Nm, 1.0Nm, 1.3Nm, and 1.5Nm. However, Muscle Activity DB 201 may actually include data for crank loads of 3Nm, 5Nm, 7Nm, 9Nm, 11Nm, and 13Nm. Muscle Activity DB201 includes data on forward and reverse rotation as the direction of crank rotation. Muscle Activity DB 201 stores extensive correlation information for various combinations of height, crank rotation speed, crank load, crank rotation direction, and other training conditions. Figure 6 In the example, muscle activity DB 201 stores correspondence information for 2 million combinations.

[0078] The correspondence information of 2 million combinations stored in Muscle Activity DB 201 can be generated, for example, using a simulator that uses a human computer model (e.g., a human body model such as a finite element model of the human body). That is, the simulator generates a human body model and an exercise device model based on body-specific information and exercise condition information, and calculates the changes in muscle activity of individual muscle parts as the crank angle changes.

[0079] The touch panel display 202 is an integrated unit consisting of a touch panel and a display. The exerciser U or an assistant can input the exerciser U's height and exercise conditions using the exercise device 100 into the muscle activation output device 2 via the touch panel display 202. Figure 7 This is a display example of a touch panel display 202.

[0080] The body-specific information acquisition unit 203 acquires body-specific information of the exerciser U. In this embodiment, the body-specific information acquisition unit 203 outputs a message 202a to the touch panel display 202 prompting the exerciser U to input his / her height. The exerciser U or an assistant inputs the exerciser U's height into the muscle activation output device 2 via the touch panel display 202. Therefore, the body-specific information acquisition unit 203 acquires body-specific information indicating the exerciser U's height. The exerciser U's height is a specific example of the exerciser U's body-specific information. The exerciser U's body-specific information may be the exerciser U's inseam instead of the exerciser U's height.

[0081] The muscle activation output device 2 may include a database that stores the correspondence between the exerciser U's identifier (ID) and the exerciser U's body-specific information. In this case, the body-specific information acquisition unit 203 may output a message to the touch panel display 202 prompting the input of the exerciser U's identifier (ID), acquire the exerciser U's identifier (ID) input by the exerciser U or assistant via the touch panel display 202, and search the database for the acquired identifier (ID) to obtain the exerciser U's body-specific information.

[0082] The exercise condition information acquisition unit 204 acquires exercise condition information indicating the exercise conditions for the exerciser U using the exercise device 100. In this embodiment, the exercise condition information acquisition unit 204 outputs a message 202b to the touch panel display 202 prompting the input of exercise conditions into the exercise device 100. The exerciser U or an assistant inputs the exercise conditions of the exercise device 100 into the muscle activation output device 2 via the touch panel display 202. The exercise condition information acquisition unit 204 thereby acquires the exercise condition information.

[0083] return Figure 3The crank angle information acquisition unit 205 acquires crank angle information in real time by receiving crank angle information from the exercise device 100 connected to the muscle activation output device 2.

[0084] The muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 acquires current muscle activity information for each muscle part based on the current crank angle information of the exercise device 100 and the muscle activity DB 201. Specifically, the muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 identifies the corresponding relationship information to be referenced in the muscle activity DB 201 based on body-specific information and exercise condition information, and refers to the identified corresponding relationship information. Therefore, the muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 acquires the current muscle activity information for each muscle part corresponding to the current crank angle of the exercise device 100. A portion of the body-specific information and exercise condition information is discrete. Therefore, when identifying the corresponding information to be referenced in the muscle activity DB 201 based on the body-specific information obtained by the body-specific information acquisition unit 203 and the exercise condition information obtained by the exercise condition information acquisition unit 204, the muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 can search in the muscle activity DB 201 for the body-specific information that is closest to the body-specific information obtained by the body-specific information acquisition unit 203, and search in the muscle activity DB 201 for the exercise condition information that is closest to the exercise condition information obtained by the exercise condition information acquisition unit 204.

[0085] The output unit 207 outputs the current muscle activity information of each muscle part to the touch panel display 202. In this embodiment, as shown... Figure 7 As shown, the output unit 207 displays a human muscle anatomy model 202c on the touch panel display 202, and colors each muscle part differently according to its muscle activity. For example, muscle parts with 100% activity are colored red, muscle parts with 50% activity are colored green, and muscle parts with 0% activity are colored blue. By checking the color of each muscle part in the human muscle anatomy model 202c, the exerciser U or assistant can grasp the current muscle activity of each muscle part. That is, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the muscle parts to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle parts not to be activated have not been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0086] Next, we will refer to Figure 8 Describe the operation of muscle activity output system 1. Figure 8 This is the operation flowchart of muscle activation output system 1.

[0087] Step S100

[0088] First, the body-specific information acquisition unit 203 acquires body-specific information indicating the height of the exerciser U.

[0089] Step S110

[0090] Next, the exercise condition information acquisition unit 204 acquires exercise condition information indicating the exercise conditions of the exerciser U using the exercise device 100.

[0091] Step S120

[0092] Then, the crank angle information acquisition unit 205 acquires the crank angle information of the crank 40 of the instruction exercise device 100.

[0093] Step S130

[0094] Subsequently, the muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 refers to the muscle activity DB 201 and acquires the current muscle activity information of each muscle part based on body-specific information, exercise condition information and crank angle information.

[0095] Step S140

[0096] Subsequently, the output unit 207 outputs the current muscle activity information of each muscle part to the touch panel display 202.

[0097] Step S150

[0098] Then, the muscle activation output device 2 determines whether the crank angle has changed. When the crank angle has not changed (step S150: No), the muscle activation output device 2 ends the process. On the other hand, when the crank angle has changed (step S150: Yes), the routine returns to step S120. The muscle activation output device 2 executes a series of steps from step S120 to step S150, for example, once per second.

[0099] The first embodiment has been described above and has the following features.

[0100] The muscle activity output system 1 includes a muscle activity database (DB) 201. The DB 201 stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates crank angle information (movable part posture information) and muscle activity information. The crank angle information indicates the crank angle (posture) of the crank 40 (movable part) of the exercise device 100 (training equipment) when the exerciser U moves his or her body along a trajectory defined by the exercise device 100, which acts as a load-applying device to the muscles of the exerciser U. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of individual muscle parts of the exerciser U. The muscle activity output system 1 includes a crank angle information acquisition unit 205 (movable part posture information acquisition unit) that acquires crank angle information in real time while the exerciser U is moving his or her body along the trajectory. The muscle activity output system 1 includes a muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 that acquires current muscle activity information for individual muscle parts based on the current crank angle information of the exercise device 100 and the muscle activity database 201. The muscle activation output system 1 includes an output unit 207 that outputs current muscle activation information for each muscle group. According to the above configuration, the exerciser U or assistant can monitor the current muscle activation of each muscle group, including deep muscles. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the muscle groups to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Thus, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Therefore, efficient exercise is achieved. Furthermore, presenting the activated muscles to the exerciser U on the exercise mannequin allows the exerciser U to pay attention to these muscles while exercising. Therefore, improved exercise results can be expected.

[0101] In other words, because the exerciser U focuses on the muscles being moved while exercising, the muscle contraction time increases. This is known to enhance the effectiveness of strength training. Presenting the muscles to be moved to the exerciser U allows the exerciser U to focus on these muscles while exercising. Therefore, improved training results can be expected. The stresses applied between joints and on bones during exercise can also be presented. A database stores information about the loads applied to joints and bones during exercise. Therefore, by presenting the stress levels applied to bones and joints in addition to muscle activity, individuals at high risk of injury when loads are applied to bones and joints during exercise can be mindful not to perform exercises that are too strenuous for them.

[0102] As an example, the training device is a pedal exercise device 100, through which the exerciser U performs pedaling exercises while seated. The attitude information of the movable parts of the training device is crank angle information indicating the crank angle of the pedal exercise device 100.

[0103] The muscle activity database 201 stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that associates crank angle information and muscle activity information with exercise condition information indicating the exercise conditions for the exerciser U. The muscle activity output system 1 also includes an exercise condition information acquisition unit 204 for acquiring exercise condition information. The muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 acquires current muscle activity information for each muscle group based on the current crank angle information, exercise condition information, and muscle activity database 201 of the exercise device 100. Through this configuration, the exerciser U or an assistant can accurately grasp the current muscle activity of each muscle group, including deep muscles.

[0104] The muscle activity database 201 stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that associates these with the exerciser U's body-specific information. The muscle activity output system 1 also includes a body-specific information acquisition unit 203. The muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 acquires current muscle activity information for each muscle group based on the current crank angle information, body-specific information, and the muscle activity database 201 of the exercise device 100. Through this configuration, the exerciser U or an assistant can accurately grasp the current muscle activity of each muscle group, including deep muscles.

[0105] The muscle activity DB 201 stores at least crank angle information and muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of the deep muscles of the exerciser U in a manner that correlates crank angle information and muscle activity information. With this configuration, since the exerciser U or assistant can grasp the current muscle activity of the deep muscles, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the deep muscles to be activated have been activated and whether the deep muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0106] The muscle activity output method uses a muscle activity database 201, which stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates crank angle information (movable part posture information) and muscle activity information. The crank angle information indicates the crank angle (posture) of the crank 40 (movable part) of the exercise device 100 (training equipment) when the exerciser U moves his or her body along a trajectory defined by the exercise device 100, which acts as a load-applying device to the muscles of the exerciser U. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each muscle part of the exerciser U. The muscle activity output method includes a movable part posture information acquisition step (step S120): acquiring crank angle information in real time while the exerciser U moves his or her body. The muscle activity output method includes a muscle activity information acquisition step (step S130): acquiring current muscle activity information for each muscle part based on the current crank angle information of the exercise device 100 and the muscle activity database 201. The muscle activity output method includes an output step (step S140): outputting the current muscle activity information for each muscle part. By employing the above method, since the exerciser (U) or assistant can monitor the current muscle activity of various muscle groups, including deep muscles, they can check whether the muscles to be activated have already been activated and whether the muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser (U) or assistant can determine whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser (U) is suitable for the exerciser's goals. Thus, highly efficient exercise is achieved.

[0107] In this embodiment, the output unit 207 outputs the current muscle activity information of each muscle group to the touch panel display 202. However, the output unit 207 may also optionally output the current muscle activity information of each muscle group via voice through a speaker (not shown). The output unit 207 can also output the current muscle activity information of each muscle group via a vibration motor (not shown) attached to the body of the exerciser U. In this case, whether the muscle group is a superficial or deep muscle and the muscle activity of the muscle group can be indicated by changing the frequency, posture, or duty cycle of the vibration motor.

[0108] Second Embodiment

[0109] Next, we will refer to Figures 9 to 10 The second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The main differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, and repetitive descriptions will be omitted.

[0110] In the first embodiment, the muscle activity output device 2 receives crank angle information from the exercise device 100 and refers to the muscle activity DB 201 to obtain muscle activity information corresponding to the received crank angle information.

[0111] On the other hand, the muscle activation output device 2 of this embodiment receives body posture information from a sensor attached to the exerciser U. The muscle activation output device 2 converts the received body posture information into crank angle information and refers to the muscle activation DB 201 to obtain muscle activation information corresponding to the obtained crank angle information.

[0112] Figure 9 This embodiment represents the muscle activation output system 1. The muscle activation output device 2 replaces the crank angle information acquisition unit 205 with a body posture information acquisition unit 208 and a conversion unit 209.

[0113] A torso posture angle sensor 300, a thigh posture angle sensor 301, a calf posture angle sensor 302, and a foot posture angle sensor 303 are attached to the exerciser U.

[0114] Specifically, the trunk posture angle sensor 300 is attached to the torso of the exerciser U. The trunk posture angle sensor 300 outputs trunk posture information, which indicates the posture of the exerciser U's torso, to the muscle activation output device 2.

[0115] Thigh posture angle sensor 301 is attached to the thigh of the exerciser U. Thigh posture angle sensor 301 outputs thigh posture information, which indicates the posture of the exerciser U's thigh, to muscle activation output device 2.

[0116] The calf posture angle sensor 302 is attached to the calf of the exerciser U. The calf posture angle sensor 302 outputs calf posture information, which indicates the posture of the exerciser U's calf, to the muscle activation output device 2.

[0117] A foot posture angle sensor 303 is attached to the foot of the exerciser U. The foot posture angle sensor 303 outputs foot posture information, indicating the posture of the exerciser U's foot, to the muscle activation output device 2.

[0118] Each of the torso posture angle sensor 300, thigh posture angle sensor 301, calf posture angle sensor 302, and foot posture angle sensor 303 is typically an attitude sensor consisting of a gyroscope and a three-axis accelerometer.

[0119] The body posture information acquisition unit 208 receives and acquires torso posture information, thigh posture information, lower leg posture information, and foot posture information from the torso posture angle sensor 300, thigh posture angle sensor 301, lower leg posture angle sensor 302, and foot posture angle sensor 303, respectively. The body posture information acquisition unit 208 calculates hip joint angle information, indicating the pitch angle of the hip joint, based on the torso posture information and thigh posture information. The body posture information acquisition unit 208 calculates knee joint angle information, indicating the pitch angle of the knee joint, based on the thigh posture information and lower leg posture information. The body posture information acquisition unit 208 calculates ankle joint angle information, indicating the pitch angle of the ankle joint, based on the lower leg posture information and foot posture information.

[0120] Trunk posture information, hip joint angle information, knee joint angle information, and ankle joint angle information constitute body posture information. Body posture information includes at least one of the following: trunk posture information, hip joint angle information, knee joint angle information, and ankle joint angle information. Preferably, body posture information includes at least hip joint angle information and knee joint angle information. This is because the crank angle is roughly obtained based on the hip joint angle information and knee joint angle information.

[0121] The method by which the body posture information acquisition unit 208 acquires body posture information is not limited to the methods described above. For example, by placing motion capture markers on the torso, thighs, calves, and feet of the exerciser U and using a 3D measurement camera to identify the positions of the markers, it is possible to obtain torso posture information, thigh posture information, calf posture information, and foot posture information.

[0122] The conversion unit 209 converts body posture information into crank angle information. Specifically, the conversion unit 209 geometrically calculates the current crank angle based on the current trunk posture information, hip joint angle information, knee joint angle information, and ankle joint angle information. The conversion unit 209 can calculate the current crank angle based on the current trunk posture information, hip joint angle information, knee joint angle information, and ankle joint angle information by taking into account body-specific information indicating the height of the exerciser U and the exercise conditions of the exerciser U using the exercise device 100.

[0123] Next, we will refer to Figure 10 Describe the operation of muscle activity output system 1. Figure 10 This is the operation flowchart of muscle activation output system 1.

[0124] exist Figure 10 In the control flow of the muscle activation output device 2 shown in this embodiment, the following will be implemented: Figure 8 In the first embodiment shown, step S120 is replaced by steps S120_1 and S120_2.

[0125] Step S120_1

[0126] After step S110 is completed, the body posture information acquisition unit 208 acquires body posture information.

[0127] Step S120_2

[0128] The conversion unit 209 then converts the body posture information into crank angle information.

[0129] The second embodiment has been described above and has the following features.

[0130] The muscle activity output system 1 includes a muscle activity database 201, which stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates crank angle information (movable part posture information) and muscle activity information. The crank angle information indicates the crank angle (posture) of the crank 40 (movable part) of the exercise device 100 as the exerciser U moves his or her body along a trajectory defined by the exercise device 100 (training equipment), which acts as a load-applying device to the muscles of the exerciser U. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of individual muscle parts of the exerciser U. The muscle activity output system 1 includes a body posture information acquisition unit 208, which acquires the body posture information of the exerciser U in real time while the exerciser U moves his or her body along the trajectory. The muscle activity output system 1 includes a conversion unit 209, which converts the body posture information into crank angle information. The muscle activity output system 1 includes a muscle activity information acquisition unit 206, which acquires the current muscle activity information of individual muscle parts based on the current crank angle information of the exercise device 100 and the muscle activity database 201. The muscle activation output system 1 includes an output unit 207 that outputs current muscle activation information for each muscle group. Through this configuration, since the exerciser U or assistant can monitor the current muscle activation of each muscle group, including deep muscles, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the muscle groups to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0131] The muscle activity output method uses a muscle activity database 201, which stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates crank angle information (movable part posture information) and muscle activity information. The crank angle information indicates the crank angle (posture) of the crank 40 (movable part) of the exercise device 100 when the exerciser U moves his or her body along a trajectory defined by the exercise device 100 (training equipment), which acts as a load-applying device to the muscles of the exerciser U. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of individual muscle parts of the exerciser U. The muscle activity output method includes a body posture information acquisition step (step S120_1): acquiring the body posture information of the exerciser U in real time while the exerciser U moves his or her body. The muscle activity output method includes a conversion step (step S120_2): converting the body posture information into crank angle information. The muscle activity output method includes a muscle activity information acquisition step (step S130): acquiring the current muscle activity information of individual muscle parts based on the current crank angle information of the exercise device 100 and the muscle activity database 201. The muscle activation output method includes an output step (step S140): outputting the current muscle activation information for each muscle group. Through this method, since the exerciser U or assistant can grasp the current muscle activation of each muscle group, including deep muscles, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the muscle groups to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0132] Third Embodiment

[0133] Next, we will refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 The third embodiment will be described. The main differences between this embodiment and the first embodiment will be described, with repeated descriptions omitted.

[0134] In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the exerciser U uses the exercise device 100 as a training device for exercise. On the other hand, in this embodiment, it is assumed that the exerciser U does not use a training device for exercise, but rather exercises by moving his or her body along a predetermined trajectory.

[0135] Pre-defined tracks are typically determined for each bodyweight exercise. Examples of bodyweight exercises include the human bridge, plank with leg raises, normal push-ups, crunches, bicycle crunches, narrow-range push-ups, reverse push-ups, squats, pull-ups, back extensions, high reverse planks, and standing leg raises. Each bodyweight exercise defines which part of the body moves forward and backward along what track. The pre-defined track can be one that is specified in real-time by the instructor as he or she moves.

[0136] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the functional block diagram of the muscle activation output system 1 in this embodiment. Figure 11 As shown, the muscle activity output device 2 in this embodiment includes a muscle activity DB 201, a touch panel display 202, a body posture information acquisition unit 208, a muscle activity information acquisition unit 206, and an output unit 207.

[0137] In the first embodiment, the muscle activity database 201 is a database that stores crank angle information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates them with crank angle information and muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of various muscle parts of the exerciser U. On the other hand, the muscle activity database 201 in this embodiment is a database that stores body posture information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates them with body posture information and muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of various muscle parts of the exerciser U. Body posture includes, for example, the joint angles of the exerciser U's body joints. In this embodiment, examples of body postures include neck joint angles, shoulder joint angles, elbow joint angles, trunk posture information, hip joint angles, knee joint angles, and ankle joint angles. For example, the muscle activity database 201 stores body posture information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates body posture information indicating elbow joint angles and muscle activity information indicating the muscle activity of various muscle parts of the exerciser U. The muscle activity database 201 can be generated by a simulator using a human computer model, as in the above embodiment.

[0138] The body posture information acquisition unit 208 receives and acquires body posture information from the body posture sensor 304. The body posture sensor 304 may be a sensor that measures the position of markers attached to various body parts of the exerciser U in a non-contact manner. Alternatively, the posture sensor may be placed on various body parts of the exerciser U, and the body posture sensor 304 may receive and acquire body posture information from the posture sensor.

[0139] The muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 refers to the muscle activity DB 201 and acquires the current muscle activity information of each muscle part based on the body posture information.

[0140] The output unit 207 outputs the current muscle activity information of each muscle part to the touch panel display 202.

[0141] Next, we will refer to Figure 12 Describe the operation of muscle activity output system 1. Figure 12 This is the operation flowchart of muscle activation output system 1.

[0142] Step S200

[0143] First, the body posture information acquisition unit 208 acquires body posture information.

[0144] Step S210

[0145] Next, the muscle activity information acquisition unit 206 refers to the muscle activity DB 201 and acquires the current muscle activity information of each muscle part based on the body posture information.

[0146] Step S220

[0147] The output unit 207 then outputs the current muscle activity information of each muscle part to the touch panel display 202.

[0148] Step S230

[0149] Subsequently, the muscle activation output device 2 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed. If the predetermined time has elapsed (step S230: Yes), the muscle activation output device 2 terminates the process. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S230: No), the routine returns to step S200.

[0150] The third embodiment has been described above and has the following features.

[0151] The muscle activity output system 1 includes a muscle activity database (DB) 201, which stores body posture information and muscle activity information in a way that links them together. The body posture information indicates the exerciser U's body posture when moving along a predetermined trajectory, and the muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of various muscle groups within the exerciser U. The muscle activity output system 1 includes a body posture information acquisition unit 208, which acquires body posture information in real time while the exerciser U moves along the trajectory. The muscle activity output system 1 also includes a muscle activity information acquisition unit 206, which acquires the current muscle activity information of each muscle group based on the exerciser U's current body posture information and the muscle activity database 201. Finally, the muscle activity output system 1 includes an output unit 207, which outputs the current muscle activity information of each muscle group. Through this configuration, since the exerciser U or assistant can grasp the current muscle activity of various muscle groups, including deep muscles, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the muscle groups to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0152] The body posture of exerciser U includes the joint angles of the joints of exerciser U's body.

[0153] The muscle activity DB 201 stores at least body posture information and muscle activity information in a manner that correlates body posture information with muscle activity information indicating the deep muscle activity of the exerciser U. Through this configuration, since the exerciser U or assistant can grasp the current muscle activity of the deep muscles, they can check whether the deep muscles to be activated have already been activated and whether the deep muscles not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0154] The muscle activity output method uses a muscle activity database (DB 201), which stores body posture information and muscle activity information in a way that links them together. Body posture information indicates the exerciser U's body posture when moving along a predetermined trajectory, and muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each muscle group in the exerciser U. The muscle activity output method includes a body posture information acquisition step (step S200): acquiring body posture information in real time while the exerciser U moves along the trajectory. The muscle activity output method also includes a muscle activity information acquisition step (step S210): acquiring the current muscle activity information of each muscle group based on the exerciser U's current body posture information and the muscle activity database (DB 201). Finally, the muscle activity output method includes an output step (step S220): outputting the current muscle activity information of each muscle group. Through this method, since the exerciser U or assistant can grasp the current muscle activity of each muscle group, including deep muscles, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the muscle groups to be activated have been activated and whether the muscle groups not to be activated have not yet been activated. Therefore, the exerciser U or assistant can check whether the exercise being performed by the exerciser U is suitable for the exerciser U's purpose. Thus, efficient exercise is achieved.

[0155] In the examples above, various types of non-transitory computer-readable media (non-transitory storage media) can be used to store and provide the program to the computer. Non-transitory computer-readable media include various types of tangible storage media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include magnetic recording media (e.g., floppy disks, magnetic tapes, and hard disk drives) and magneto-optical recording media (e.g., magneto-optical disks). Other examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include read-only optical disc storage (CD-ROM), recordable optical disc (CD-R), rewritable optical disc (CD-R / W), and semiconductor memory (e.g., mask ROM). Other examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include programmable ROM (PROM), erasable PROM (EPROM), flash ROM, and random access memory (RAM). The program can be provided to the computer via various types of transient computer-readable media. Examples of transient computer-readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. Transitory computer-readable media can provide the program to the computer via wired communication paths such as wires and optical fibers, or wireless communication paths.

[0156] This disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and appropriate modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A muscle activation output system, characterized in that, include: A muscle activity database is configured to store movable part posture information, muscle activity information, exercise condition information, and body-specific information in a manner that links these elements together. The exercise condition information is externally input and indicates the exercise conditions of the exerciser. The movable part posture information indicates the posture of the movable parts of the training device when the exerciser moves the exerciser's body along a trajectory defined by the training device. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of a plurality of muscle groups of the exerciser. The training device is a device that applies load to the muscles of the exerciser. as well as The processor, which is configured as While the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory, the posture information of the movable parts of the training device is acquired. Obtain the exercise condition information and the body-specific information. Based on the current movable part posture information of the training device, the exercise condition information, the body-specific information, and the muscle activity database, the current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle parts is obtained, and Output the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle sites.

2. The muscle activation output system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The training equipment is a pedal exercise device that allows the exerciser to perform pedaling exercises while seated; and The posture information of the movable part of the training device is the crank angle information indicating the crank angle of the pedal exercise device.

3. The muscle activation output system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of the exerciser's deep muscles.

4. A muscle activation output system, characterized in that, include: A muscle activity database is configured to store movable part posture information, muscle activity information, exercise condition information, and body-specific information in a manner that links these elements together. The exercise condition information is externally input and indicates the exercise conditions of the exerciser. The movable part posture information indicates the posture of the movable parts of the training device when the exerciser moves the exerciser's body along a trajectory defined by the training device. The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of each of a plurality of muscle groups of the exerciser. The training device is a device that applies load to the muscles of the exerciser. as well as The processor, which is configured as While the exerciser moves their body along the trajectory, the exerciser's body posture information is acquired. The body posture information is converted into the posture information of the movable parts of the training device. Obtain the exercise condition information and the body-specific information. Based on the current movable part posture information of the training device, the exercise condition information, the body-specific information, and the muscle activity database, the current muscle activity information of each of the plurality of muscle parts is obtained, and Output the current muscle activity information for each of the plurality of muscle sites.

5. The muscle activation output system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The exerciser's body posture includes the joint angles of the exerciser's body joints.

6. The muscle activation output system according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The muscle activity information indicates the muscle activity of the exerciser's deep muscles.

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