Vibration stimulation device

Abstract

A vibration stimulation device is provided with a vibration applicator configured to apply vibration to the body of a user, and an input unit configured to allow input of a music signal output from a sound source, and operates the vibration applicator with an output waveform, the output waveform is a vibration waveform obtained by adding a music waveform and a basic waveform, the music waveform is a vibration waveform obtained on the basis of a music signal input to the input unit, and the basic waveform is a vibration waveform for promoting an effect of preventing weakness.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to vibration stimulation devices that promote venous return (also known as "milking action") and neural activity (projection from various receptors in muscles and tendons to motor neurons via sensory neurons and interneurons) in the user. Background Technology

[0002] For example, in the massage machine disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-262578, the vibration generator is operated with the maximum amplitude of the vibration generated by the vibration generator (hereinafter referred to as "amplitude") set to a fixed value. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Through testing and research, the inventors discovered that "when the vibration generator operates continuously while maintaining a fixed amplitude of vibration applied to the body, the user experiences significant discomfort." In view of the aforementioned problems, this disclosure presents an example of a vibration stimulation device.

[0004] Vibration stimulation devices for promoting the prevention of weakness preferably have at least the following components.

[0005] That is, the constituent elements include: a vibration applicator configured to apply vibration to the user's body; an input unit configured to allow input of a music signal output from a sound source; and a control unit configured to control the operation of the vibration applicator, and the control unit configured to operate the vibration applicator with a vibration waveform (hereinafter referred to as the "output waveform") obtained by adding a music waveform to a basic waveform, wherein the music waveform is a vibration waveform obtained based on the music signal input to the input unit, and the basic waveform is a vibration waveform used to promote the effect of preventing weakness.

[0006] Thus, for example, if the vibration stimulation device is used while playing music related to the music waveform, the user can receive vibrations from the vibration waveform that promotes the effect of preventing weakness while enjoying the music, that is, receive vibrations from the basic waveform.

[0007] In other words, the user receives vibrational stimulation from the basic waveform while in a state of conscious inclination towards auditory perception. Therefore, the user can experience enhanced motor neural activity, i.e., venous return or neural activity effects, without being aware of the vibrational stimulation from the basic waveform.

[0008] Therefore, users can achieve the effect of preventing weakness without being strongly aware of the training, where the training is used to prevent physical weakness or functional decline, that is, to achieve the effect of preventing weakness. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the seat according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the electrical system of the seat according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the output waveform of the vibration applicator according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 4A This is a diagram showing an example of the installation of the vibration applicator according to the fourth embodiment; Figure 4B This is a diagram showing an example of the installation of the vibration applicator according to the fourth embodiment.

[0013] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the seat according to the fifth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0014] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0015] The following embodiments of the invention illustrate an example of an implementation within the scope of this disclosure. That is, the technical solutions described in the claims are not limited to the specific structures or configurations shown in the following embodiments.

[0016] Furthermore, for any component or part that is indicated by at least a symbol, at least one is provided, unless otherwise stated beforehand as "only one". The vibration stimulation device disclosed herein includes constituent elements such as components or parts indicated by at least a symbol, and at least one of the structural parts shown in the illustrations.

[0017] (First Embodiment)

[0018] This embodiment is an example of applying the vibration stimulation device and vibration stimulation method of this disclosure to chairs such as vehicle seats and armchairs. This embodiment is particularly effective in preventing frailty (physical and mental degeneration due to aging).

[0019] <1. Seating Overview>

[0020] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the seat 1 of this embodiment includes a seat body 2, at least one (or multiple) vibration applicators 3, a music signal input unit (hereinafter referred to as input unit 4), and a control unit 5, etc.

[0021] The seat body 2 has at least one of a seat cushion 2A, a seat back 2B, and a leg support device 2C. The seat cushion 2A supports the lower body of the seated person, such as the legs. The seat back 2B supports the upper body of the seated person, such as the waist and back. The leg support device 2C supports the lower body of the seated person below the knees, such as the calves.

[0022] Each vibration applicator 3 applies vibration to the user of the vibration stimulation device, that is, the body of the user of the seat 1. Moreover, in this embodiment, at least one vibration applicator 3 is disposed on the seat cushion 2A, the seat back 2B, and the leg support device 2C, respectively.

[0023] Specifically, vibration applicators 31 and 32 are disposed on the seat cushion 2A. Vibration applicators 33 and 34 are disposed on the seat back 2B. Vibration applicator 35 is disposed on the leg support device 2C. In the following text, all or any of the vibration applicators 31 to 35 are referred to as vibration applicators 3.

[0024] Each vibration applicator 3 is configured to have a first vibrator 3A and a second vibrator 3B. The first vibrator 3A applies vibration to the right half of the user's body. The second vibrator 3B applies vibration to the left half of the user's body.

[0025] The music signal output from the sound source is input to the input unit 4. The sound source can be, for example, a portable terminal device such as a user's smartphone or a music player installed in a car. Furthermore, the connection between the input unit 4 and the sound source can be wired or wireless.

[0026] The control unit 5 controls the operation of the vibration applicator 3. This control unit 5 can use music signals to perform weak vibration application mode control (hereinafter referred to as "weakness prevention control").

[0027] The weakness prevention control in this embodiment is a control that uses a vibration waveform (hereinafter referred to as "output waveform") obtained by adding a music waveform to a basic waveform to operate the vibration applicator 3. The music waveform is a vibration waveform obtained based on a music signal input to the input unit 3, and the basic waveform is a vibration waveform used to promote the effect of weakness prevention.

[0028] In addition, in this embodiment, a waveform with a frequency of 20Hz or higher and 120Hz or lower, and a minimum amplitude of 0.1mm or higher (the difference between the minimum amplitude and the maximum amplitude is 0.1mm or higher) is used as the basic waveform.

[0029] Specifically, the basic waveform of this embodiment is an 80Hz sine wave with a minimum amplitude of 0.1mm or more. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the output waveform. (e.g.) Figure 3 As shown, the output waveform is a synthesized waveform obtained by adding the music waveform to the basic waveform. Additionally, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the output waveform, not a diagram showing the accurate synthesized waveform.

[0030] In addition, Figure 2 In this configuration, the first drive circuit 6A receives instructions from the control unit 5, thereby driving each of the first vibrators 3A. The second drive circuit 6B receives instructions from the control unit 5, thereby driving each of the second vibrators 3B. The power supply 7 supplies power to the control unit 5, the first drive circuit 6A, and the second drive circuit 6B.

[0031] The amplification sensitivity of the music signal output from the sound source can be adjusted according to the user's preference. Therefore, the control unit 5 superimposes a basic waveform based on this amplification sensitivity.

[0032] When the output waveform superimposed with the basic waveform exceeds the dynamic range of the music signal, the control unit 5 performs processing to keep the dynamic range of the output waveform within the dynamic range of the music signal, and outputs the processed signal to the vibration applicator 3.

[0033] <2. Features of the Seat (Vibration Stimulation Device and Vibration Stimulation Method) in this Embodiment>

[0034] If the seat (vibration stimulation device and vibration stimulation method) of this embodiment is used while playing music related to the music waveform via a smartphone or in-vehicle playback device, the user can receive vibrations from the vibration waveform that promotes the prevention of weakness while enjoying the music, that is, receive vibrations from the basic waveform.

[0035] In other words, the user receives vibrational stimulation from the basic waveform while in a state of conscious inclination towards auditory perception. Therefore, the user can experience enhanced motor neural activity, i.e., venous return or neural activity effects, without being aware of the vibrational stimulation from the basic waveform.

[0036] Therefore, users can achieve the effect of preventing weakness without being strongly aware of the training, where the training is used to prevent physical weakness or functional decline, that is, to achieve the effect of preventing weakness.

[0037] (Second Implementation)

[0038] In the first embodiment, a waveform similar to the music signal input to the input unit 4 is used as the music waveform. In contrast, in the second embodiment, after performing a process (hereinafter referred to as "filtering processing") to use signals in the music signal input to the input unit 4 with frequencies below a predetermined frequency as music waveforms, the waveform obtained by adding the filtered music waveform to the basic waveform is used as the output waveform.

[0039] In addition, the "preset frequency" mentioned above refers to the frequency of the basic waveform. For example, if the frequency of the basic waveform is 80Hz, then the music waveform is a waveform composed of signals with frequencies higher than 80Hz removed from the music signal, and consisting only of signals with frequencies lower than or equal to 80Hz.

[0040] (Third Implementation)

[0041] In the above embodiments, the output waveform is configured to be obtained by adding the basic waveform to the music waveform. In this embodiment, the output waveform is configured to be obtained by multiplying the basic waveform by the music waveform.

[0042] Furthermore, when the basic waveform is multiplied by the music waveform, the minimum amplitude may be less than the minimum amplitude of the basic waveform. Therefore, in this embodiment, a process is performed to adjust the amplitude of the output waveform to be greater than or equal to the average amplitude of the basic waveform.

[0043] This can suppress a significant reduction in the effectiveness of preventing weakness. Furthermore, if the minimum amplitude is less than the minimum amplitude of the basic waveform, the effectiveness of preventing weakness may be significantly reduced.

[0044] Furthermore, even in this embodiment, the filtered music signal is used as the music waveform. However, the unfiltered music signal can also be used as the music waveform.

[0045] (Fourth implementation)

[0046] The above embodiments are examples of applying the vibration stimulation device and vibration stimulation method of this disclosure to a chair. In this embodiment, a vibration stimulation device is provided with a first fixing member 6C and a second fixing member 6D, wherein, as... Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the first fastener 6C is used to securely fasten the first vibrator 3A to the user's body, and the second fastener 6D is used to securely fasten the second vibrator 3B to the user's body.

[0047] In this embodiment, the first fastener 6C and the second fastener 6D are fasteners that can be freely installed and removed, such as hook and loop fasteners. Furthermore, Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe installation positions of the first vibrator 3A and the second vibrator 3B shown are examples.

[0048] Furthermore, the muscles subjected to vibration can be any part of the body, such as the muscle belly or tendon. This is because venous return and nerve activity can be effectively promoted at any location.

[0049] The above description concerns the differences from the embodiments described above. Components and other elements identical to those in the embodiments described above are labeled with the same symbols as in the embodiments described above. Therefore, repeated descriptions are omitted in this embodiment.

[0050] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0051] Each vibration applicator 3 in the above embodiments is configured to have a first vibrator 3A for the right half of the body and a second vibrator 3B for the left half of the body. Regarding this, as... Figure 5 As shown, each vibration applicator 3 in this embodiment is configured as a vibrator 3C.

[0052] Furthermore, the above description pertains to the differences between the seat 1 and the first embodiment. Components identical to those in the above embodiment are labeled with the same symbols as in the above embodiment. Therefore, repeated descriptions have been omitted in this embodiment.

[0053] (Other implementation methods)

[0054] The basic waveform of the above embodiment is 20Hz or higher and 120Hz or lower, the minimum amplitude is 0.1mm or higher, and the difference between the minimum amplitude and the maximum amplitude is 0.1mm or higher. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0055] In the above embodiment, each vibrator 3 is configured to vibrate with the same phase. However, this disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the disclosure may be configured such that each of the first vibrators 3 vibrates with different phases.

[0056] In the above embodiments, at least one vibration applicator 3 is respectively disposed on the seat cushion 2A, the seat back 2B, and the leg support device 2C. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the disclosure may be configured such that the vibration applicator 3 is disposed on only one of the seat cushion 2A, the seat back 2B, and the leg support device 2C.

[0057] In the above embodiment, when a vibration stimulation device is used, a music waveform is generated by inputting a music signal from a sound source located outside the vibration stimulation device to the input unit 4. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0058] In other words, the disclosure may be a vibration stimulation device having, for example, a storage device for storing sound sources, or a storage unit for storing generated music waveforms or output waveforms, and using the music signal, music waveform, or output waveform stored in the storage unit the next time the vibration stimulation device is used.

[0059] Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, as long as it conforms to the spirit of the invention. Therefore, it can be a structure composed of at least two of the above embodiments, or it can be a structure that eliminates any one of the constituent elements illustrated in the above embodiments, or it can be a structure that eliminates any one of the constituent elements indicated by the symbols in the above embodiments.

Claims

1. A vibration stimulation device for promoting the prevention of weakness, characterized in that it comprises: A vibration applicator configured to apply vibration to a user's body; An input section, configured to allow input of a music signal output from a sound source; and The control unit is configured to control the operation of the vibration applicator, and the control unit is configured to operate the vibration applicator by outputting a waveform, wherein... The output waveform is a vibration waveform obtained by adding a music waveform to a basic waveform. The music waveform is a vibration waveform obtained based on the music signal input to the input unit. The basic waveform is a vibration waveform used to promote the effect of preventing weakness.

2. The vibration stimulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is capable of performing processing to maintain the dynamic range of the output waveform within the dynamic range of the music signal.

3. The vibration stimulation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The control unit is capable of processing signals with frequencies below a preset frequency in the music signal input to the input unit as the music waveform.

4. A vibration stimulation device for promoting the prevention of weakness, characterized in that it comprises: A vibration applicator configured to apply vibration to a user's body; The input section is configured to allow input of a music signal output from a sound source; The control unit is configured to control the operation of the vibration applicator, and the control unit is configured to generate an output waveform based on a waveform obtained by multiplying a music waveform by a basic waveform, wherein... The music waveform is a vibration waveform obtained based on the music signal input to the input unit, the basic waveform is a vibration waveform used to promote the effect of preventing weakness, and the output waveform is a vibration waveform used to operate the vibration applicator.

5. The vibration stimulation device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The control unit is capable of performing a process that adjusts the amplitude of the output waveform to be greater than or equal to the average amplitude of the basic waveform.

6. The vibration stimulation device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit is capable of processing signals with frequencies below a preset frequency in the music signal input to the input unit as the music waveform.

7. The vibration stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The basic waveform is a waveform with a frequency of 20Hz or higher and 120Hz or lower, and a minimum amplitude of 0.1mm or higher.

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