Air stretching device comprising belt and cushion

Abstract

The invention provides a structure of an air stretching device. The air stretching device comprises a control part; a plurality of air cavities which are controlled to increase or decrease the air pressure through the control unit and are provided with lumbar vertebra air cavities corresponding to the lumbar vertebra of the user; the air stretching device is characterized in that the control part comprises an air pump, the air pump is connected with the air pipes, air can be injected into the air pump, and the air belt can be worn around the lumbar vertebra of a user and is provided with a plurality of air pipes extending in the longitudinal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0103159 dated August 7, 2023, and all contents disclosed in that Korean patent application are incorporated into this specification.

[0002] This invention relates to an air stretching device that uses air pressure to massage and stretch a user, namely, a device including an air belt and an air cushion, and an air stretching method using the same. Background Technology

[0003] Spinal diseases are diseases that affect the muscles, nerves, and intervertebral discs surrounding the spine. Types of spinal diseases include herniated discs, anterior vertebral displacement, spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, and strain.

[0004] This type of spinal condition can also occur acutely due to a strong impact, but it mainly develops chronically due to incorrect posture, etc. Therefore, in order to prevent and treat most of the spinal conditions mentioned above and to eliminate the pain caused by them, it is recommended to soothe and stretch the muscles around the spine.

[0005] Recently, a variety of air stretching mats have been introduced to help stretch the muscles around the spine.

[0006] Figure 1 The structure of a typical air stretching mat is shown. Referring to this figure, a typical air stretching mat 1 includes multiple air chambers 11, 12, 13, and 14, and a control unit 15 that controls the injected air pressure. The air chambers may include cervical spine air chambers 11, thoracic spine air chambers 12, lumbar spine air chambers 13, and sacrococcygeal spine air chambers 14 corresponding to various spinal regions; some may be omitted or added depending on the product. By dynamically filling or releasing air pressure into the multiple air chambers as described above, the muscles surrounding the spine are stretched or twisted, thus providing a stretching effect for the user.

[0007] On the other hand, for patients with cervical spondylosis and lumbar disc herniation, applying pressure to the intervertebral discs by traction on the spine is very helpful in treatment.

[0008] Traction therapy includes intermittent traction with repeated 7-second traction and rest intervals of 5 to 7 seconds, as well as continuous traction with weak force applied to the spine for several tens of minutes. The effects of intermittent and continuous traction vary depending on the affected area, symptoms, and individual patient. Therefore, the treatment of herniated discs should appropriately select between intermittent and continuous traction, or, if necessary, both methods should be used in combination.

[0009] In the air stretch pad 1, the cervical spine air cavity 11 and the lumbar spine air cavity 13 can provide this traction effect caused by air pressure. For the air stretch pad 1, the filling and discharging of air pressure is very flexible, and its shape does not completely surround the spine, so it is preferably used to provide intermittent traction, while the belt-shaped product described later can be used for continuous traction.

[0010] Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of a typical air belt. Referring to this figure, the air belt 2 is primarily worn tightly around the user's waist and secured by fastening units such as Velcro 21. Multiple air tubes 22 extending longitudinally are provided in the air belt 2. These air tubes 22 can expand longitudinally when air is injected, providing continuous traction to the user's lumbar spine.

[0011] However, as mentioned above, it is difficult to perform intermittent and continuous traction in parallel or alternately with home-use equipment. Furthermore, dynamic stretching can exacerbate pain in patients whose pain is caused by postural changes, and if a strap is used to maintain posture, there is a problem of limited dynamic stretching movements. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The technical issues to be solved The present invention is proposed in the context of the prior art as described above, and its object is to provide an air stretching device and an air stretching method using the same, which facilitate the parallel or alternating execution of continuous traction and intermittent traction.

[0013] Furthermore, the object of the present invention is to provide an air stretching device and method that performs dynamic stretching to relieve pain in the muscles surrounding the spine and minimizes pain caused by sudden changes in posture.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide an air stretching device and method that helps to stimulate and soothe deep muscles, such as those used to relieve menstrual cramps.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a structure for an air stretching device that prevents problems such as overstretching of the lumbar spine caused by excessive air pressure when the air belt and air stretching pad are used together or separately, and that can fully exert the heating effect.

[0016] The purpose of this invention is not limited to the purposes mentioned above. Other purposes and advantages of this invention not mentioned can be understood through the following description and will become clearer through embodiments of this invention. Furthermore, it can be readily understood that the purposes and advantages of this invention can be achieved, in particular, through the technical solutions and combinations thereof within the scope of the patent claims.

[0017] Technical solutions to technical problems The present invention for achieving the stated purpose includes: a control unit; a plurality of air cavities controlled to increase or decrease air pressure via the control unit, including a lumbar air cavity corresponding to the lumbar vertebrae of the user; and an air belt capable of being worn around the lumbar vertebrae of the user, having a plurality of air tubes, characterized in that, in the air stretching device, the control unit includes an air pump connected to the air tubes, capable of injecting air.

[0018] The air band may include a low-frequency stimulation pad disposed on the inner surface of the air band to provide heat and low-frequency electrical stimulation to the user. The low-frequency stimulation pad can stimulate deep muscles of the user by providing heat and low-frequency electrical stimulation, improving blood circulation and relieving muscle pain or menstrual cramps. The low-frequency stimulation pad itself may have a heating function, or it may include a separately installed heating device.

[0019] The air band may include a band operating part for adjusting the heat provided by the low-frequency stimulation pad and the intensity of the low-frequency electrical stimulation. Users can adjust the heat, intensity, location, cycle, and duration of the low-frequency electrical stimulation by operating the band operating part.

[0020] Multiple air pipes may be provided. The multiple air pipes can be connected in a manner that allows air pressure to communicate with each other. The multiple air pipes can be arranged in a longitudinal or transverse direction.

[0021] Preferably, the air tube is formed by extending longitudinally, but it is not limited thereto.

[0022] The control unit can block air injection when a specified appropriate air pressure is injected into the air pipe.

[0023] If a user is wearing the air belt, the air stretching device can identify them. Specifically, the control unit can identify the user while they are wearing the air belt and lying on the air stretching device.

[0024] A belt recognition sensor connected to the control unit can be provided on the surface of the air cavity in the lumbar region. In this case, a belt identification part can be provided on the back surface of the air belt, so that the belt recognition sensor can identify the belt when the belt identification part comes into contact with the belt recognition part or comes within a specified distance and output a belt recognition signal to the control unit. The control unit can recognize that the user is wearing the air belt and lying on the air stretching device upon input of the belt recognition signal.

[0025] In contrast, a belt recognition sensor connected to the control unit can be provided on the back surface of the air belt. In this case, a belt recognition part can be provided on the surface of the lumbar air cavity, whereby the belt recognition sensor identifies the belt when the belt recognition part comes into contact with or approaches within a predetermined distance, and outputs a belt recognition signal to the control unit. The control unit can then recognize, upon input of the belt recognition signal, that the user is wearing the air belt and lying on the air stretching device.

[0026] The identification sensor and the identification part of the strip can be disposed at the center of each other in the width direction. Preferably, they can be extended along the longitudinal direction or there can be multiple of them.

[0027] The strip identification portion may include an electrostatic tag, and the strip identification sensor may include an electrostatic sensor that identifies contact or proximity of the electrostatic tag.

[0028] As the air stretching device can identify whether a user is wearing the air belt, it can operate differently depending on whether the user is wearing the air belt. The air pressure injected into the lumbar spine air cavity via the control unit can be controlled below a predetermined maximum air pressure. In this case, if the user is not wearing the air belt, the maximum air pressure can be controlled below a first maximum input; if the user is wearing the air belt, the maximum air pressure can be controlled below a second maximum input, which is less than the first maximum input.

[0029] When a user wears the air belt and lies on the air stretching device, the air pump can inject air into the air belt. Specifically, if a user wears the air belt and lies on the air stretching device, the control unit can recognize this and control the air pump to inject air into the air belt.

[0030] The air stretching device can detect when a user's lumbar spine is overstretched. Specifically, if a user wears the air belt and uses the air stretching device, the control unit can detect when a user's lumbar spine is overstretched based on the pressure provided by the lumbar air chamber and the air belt to the user's lumbar spine.

[0031] A pair of overstretch detection sensors can be provided at positions spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the center of the surface of the lumbar air cavity in the width direction. In this case, a pair of overstretch detection parts can be provided at positions spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the center of the back surface of the air belt in the width direction. Thus, the overstretch detection sensor can detect the overstretch detection part when it comes into contact with the overstretch detection part or comes within a predetermined distance, and output an overstretch detection signal to the control unit.

[0032] In contrast, a pair of overstretch detection sensors can be provided at predetermined distances from the center of the surface of the lumbar air cavity in the width direction toward both sides. In this case, a pair of overstretch detection parts can be provided at predetermined distances from the center of the back surface of the air belt in the width direction toward both sides. Thus, the overstretch detection sensor can detect the overstretch detection part when it comes into contact with the overstretch detection part or comes within a predetermined distance, and output an overstretch detection signal to the control unit.

[0033] The overstretch identification sensor and the overstretched identification part can be provided in one or more pairs at corresponding locations. Preferably, they can be extended longitudinally or arranged in multiple pairs.

[0034] If overstretching of the user's lumbar spine is detected, the air stretching device can be controlled to stop injecting air into the lumbar spine air chamber. In other words, if overstretching of the user's lumbar spine is detected, the air stretching device can prevent overstretching of the user's lumbar spine by controlling the pressure supplied to the user's lumbar spine by the lumbar spine air chamber to no longer increase or decrease.

[0035] The air stretching device may include: a lower pad, whose temperature is controlled by the control unit to increase or decrease; and an upper pad, disposed above the lower pad. In this case, the upper pad comprises at least one material selected from ceramic, artificial stone, and natural stone, thereby enabling better transfer of the heating effect from the lower pad to the user.

[0036] The air band may be made of copper. Therefore, the air band can have high thermal conductivity, allowing for better transfer of the heating effect from the lower pad to the user, even when the user is wearing the air band.

[0037] The present invention may include a sphere, which is controlled by the control unit to rotate and move. Preferably, the sphere is positioned corresponding to the user's cervical spine, but any position that allows for massage of the muscles surrounding the user's spine is acceptable.

[0038] Furthermore, the present invention provides an air stretching method utilizing an air stretching device, the air stretching device comprising: a control unit; and a lumbar spine air chamber controlled by the control unit to increase or decrease air pressure corresponding to the lumbar spine of the user. The air stretching method comprises: a traction step, wherein the lumbar spine air chamber maintains an air pressure above a predetermined traction pressure for a predetermined traction time; and a rest step, wherein the lumbar spine air chamber maintains an air pressure below a predetermined rest pressure for a predetermined rest time.

[0039] In this case, the air stretching device includes an air belt that can be worn around the user's lumbar spine and is provided with multiple air tubes. In the air stretching method, if the user is not wearing the air belt, the traction pressure is controlled to be above a first traction pressure; if the user is wearing the air belt, the traction pressure is controlled to be above a second traction pressure that is less than the first traction pressure.

[0040] Furthermore, in this case, the air stretching device may include: a thoracic spine air cavity corresponding to the user's thoracic spine; and a sacrococcygeal spine air cavity corresponding to the user's sacrum and coccyx. The air stretching method further includes a posture change assisting step, that is, in at least one of the thoracic spine air cavity and the sacrococcygeal spine air cavity, the air pressure on one side in the left-right direction is greater than the air pressure on the other side.

[0041] Invention Effects The present invention provides an air stretching device and an air stretching method thereof, which can easily perform continuous traction and intermittent traction in parallel or alternately by linking an air belt that maintains a specified air pressure and an air stretching pad that is controlled by dynamically increasing the air pressure.

[0042] Furthermore, the present invention can provide an air stretching device and method that, during the dynamic stretching process using an air stretching pad, can also securely fix the lumbar spine with an air belt, thereby minimizing the occurrence of pain caused by sudden changes in posture.

[0043] Another advantage of the present invention is that the heat and low-frequency stimulation pads set in the air belt help to stimulate and soothe deep muscles, such as those used to relieve menstrual cramps.

[0044] Other advantages of the present invention are that it can provide an air stretching device and method that, when the materials of the air belt and the air stretching pad are appropriately selected to be used simultaneously, can also fully transfer heat to the user, and can ensure that the air pressure is not over-controlled depending on whether the belt is worn and whether it is over-stretched, thereby increasing the effect and improving safety.

[0045] In addition, the present invention may have a variety of other effects, which will be described in various embodiments, or effects that can be easily derived by a person skilled in the art will be omitted. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 The structure of a typical air stretch pad is shown.

[0047] Figure 2 This shows the structure of a typical air band.

[0048] Figure 3 The structure of an air stretch pad according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0049] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The front and rear structures of the air strip according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively.

[0050] Figure 6 This illustrates an embodiment of the invention that combines other air stretch pads and air strips.

[0051] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This illustrates the overstretching detection function of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 9 and Figure 10 A graph illustrating the pressure applied to the lumbar spine of a user over time in an air stretching method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 11 This illustrates the role of the posture change assisting step in an air stretching method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 1: Air stretch pad 11: Cervical spine air cavity 111: Sphere 12: Air cavities in the thoracic vertebrae 13: Lumbar spine air cavity 131: With identification sensor 132: Overstretch Detection Sensor 14: Air cavity in the sacrococcygeal region 15: Control Department 151: Air pump 2: Air Zone 21: Velcro 22: Air pipe 231: With the identified part 232: Overstretched identified part 240: With operating unit 241: Low-frequency stimulation pad 242: Heating device 25: Light Emitting Diode Pt: Set traction pressure Pr: Set rest pressure P1: First traction pressure P2: Second traction pressure P3: With traction pressure Detailed Implementation The objectives, features, and advantages described herein will be explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to easily implement the technical concept of the present invention. In describing the present invention, if specific descriptions of well-known technologies related to the present invention are deemed unnecessary to obscure the main points of the invention, their detailed descriptions will be omitted. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structural elements.

[0055] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe multiple structural elements, these structural elements are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one structural element from other structural elements, and unless there is a particularly contradictory description, the first structural element can also be the second structural element.

[0056] Unless otherwise stated in the entire instruction manual, the number of each structural element may be singular or plural.

[0057] The following, setting any structure on the "upper or lower part" or "above or below" of a structural element not only includes the case where any structure is set on the upper or lower surface of the structural element in contact, but also means setting other structures between the structural element and any structure set on the upper or lower part of the structural element.

[0058] Furthermore, if it is described as a structural element being "connected", "combined", or "in contact" with other structural elements, then multiple structural elements can be directly connected or in contact with each other. This should be understood as "setting" other structural elements between various structural elements, or various structural elements being "connected", "combined", or "in contact" through different structural elements.

[0059] Unless otherwise expressly indicated in the context, the singular expressions used in this specification include the plural expressions. In this application, terms such as "constituting" or "comprising" should not be construed as necessarily including all the multiple structural elements or steps described in the specification, but should be construed as excluding some of the partial structural elements or steps, or including multiple structural elements or steps.

[0060] Throughout the instruction manual, unless otherwise stated, “A and / or B” means “A, B or A and B”, and unless otherwise stated, “C to D” means “above C and below D”.

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

[0062] [Air stretching device] First, the structure of an air stretching device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] Figure 3 The figure illustrates the structure of an air stretching pad according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to the figure, an air stretching device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an air stretching pad 1, which may include a plurality of air cavities 11, 12, 13, 14 and a control unit 15.

[0064] The air cavities 11, 12, 13, and 14 can be controlled to expand or contract in response to changes in internal air pressure. This control can be performed by the control unit 15.

[0065] Preferably, the air pressure on the left and right sides of the air cavities 11, 12, 13, and 14 can be adjusted individually, except that the air pressure on the left and right sides of the center can be adjusted simultaneously, or one can be set on each side to form a left-right symmetry.

[0066] The air cavities 11, 12, 13, and 14 may include at least one air cavity selected from the cervical spine air cavity 11, thoracic spine air cavity 12, lumbar spine air cavity 13, and sacrococcygeal spine air cavity 14. The cervical spine air cavity 11, the thoracic spine air cavity 12, the lumbar spine air cavity 13, and the sacrococcygeal spine air cavity 14 may be respectively located at positions corresponding to the cervical spine, thoracic spine, lumbar spine, and sacrococcygeal spine of the user.

[0067] The air stretching pad 1 may include a ball 111. The ball 111 can be controlled to rotate and move, thereby massaging the muscles around the user's spine. The control can be performed by the control unit 15.

[0068] The sphere 111 can be positioned anywhere according to the location of the muscles surrounding the user's spine, but preferably, it is positioned at a location corresponding to the user's cervical spine.

[0069] The control unit 15 can independently control the air pressure of the air chambers 11, 12, 13, and 14 according to a program or operation to expand or contract them, thereby compressing the user's body parts or changing the user's body position.

[0070] The control unit 15 may include an air pump 151. The air pump 151 may inject air into the air belt described later.

[0071] Furthermore, the air stretch mat 1 includes a heating device to provide a heating effect to the user. The heating device may be a planar heating element disposed at the lower part of the air stretch mat 1, but is not limited to this. Any structure is acceptable as long as it is a unit that can transfer heat to the user lying on the air stretch mat 1.

[0072] To achieve effective heat transfer from the heating device to the user, the air stretch pad 1 may include at least one of ceramic, artificial stone, and natural stone. Specifically, the air stretch pad 1 may include: a lower pad on which the heating device is disposed and whose temperature is controlled by the control unit to increase or decrease; and an upper pad disposed above the lower pad, the upper pad including at least one of ceramic, artificial stone, and natural stone.

[0073] An embodiment of the air stretching pad 1 of the present invention may include: a control unit 15; an integral cervical spine air cavity 11 and a lumbar spine air cavity 13, the air pressure of the left and right parts being controlled separately by the control unit 15; a thoracic spine air cavity 12 and a sacrococcygeal spine air cavity 14, the air pressure of which is controlled separately by the control unit 15, forming a left-right pair; and a ball 111, which is provided corresponding to the cervical spine of the user, and may also include a heating device for providing a heating effect to the user.

[0074] According to this embodiment, in the air stretching mat 1, the air cavities 11, 12, 13, and 14 can be independently expanded or contracted under the control of the control unit 15. This allows for dynamic changes in the user's position or compression of specific body parts, thus massaging or stretching the muscles around the user's spine for relaxation. Furthermore, the air stretching mat 1 can provide massage and heating effects to help relax the user's muscles and improve blood circulation, thereby contributing to improved health and recovery.

[0075] Figure 4 and Figure 5 The front and rear structures of the air strip according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively. In other words, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The structures of the back and front surfaces of the air belt according to an embodiment of the present invention are shown respectively. Referring to these figures, the air stretching device may include an air belt 2, which may extend horizontally and be used around the lumbar spine of the user.

[0076] The air band 2 may include fixing units that secure its two ends to each other. For example, the fixing units may include Velcro 21, which are attached to each other by providing one at one horizontal end on the surface of the air band 2 and one at the other horizontal end on the back side.

[0077] The air band 2 may include air pipes 22. The air pipes 22 may be formed in a longitudinally extending shape, and multiple air pipes may be arranged in a horizontal direction. However, the shape and arrangement of the air pipes 22 are not limited thereto; for example, they may be formed in a transversely extending shape or arranged in a longitudinal direction.

[0078] Air can be filled into the air tube 22. As air is filled into the air tube 22, the air tube 22 can expand longitudinally. As the air tube 22 expands longitudinally, the air belt 2 provides continuous traction by longitudinally stretching the lumbar spine of the wearer, thus fixing the lumbar spine in a way that prevents it from bending, twisting, or contorting.

[0079] Reference Figure 4 The air band 2 may include a low-frequency stimulation pad 241 disposed on its inner surface to provide low-frequency electrical stimulation by applying a low-frequency voltage to the user's skin surface. The low-frequency stimulation pad 241 may be positioned corresponding to the user's rear or front face. The low-frequency stimulation pad 241 may be arranged as a symmetrical pair on both sides in the horizontal direction. The low-frequency stimulation pad 241 can relieve muscle pain or menstrual cramps in the user by stimulating deep muscles with low-frequency voltage.

[0080] Reference Figure 4 The air belt 2 may include a heating device 242 disposed on its inner surface and providing a heating effect to the user.

[0081] The heating device 242 can be installed together with the low-frequency stimulation pad 241. The heating device 242 can be integrated with the low-frequency stimulation pad 241. In this case, the low-frequency stimulation pad 241 can provide low-frequency electrical stimulation and heating effects to the user at the same time, thereby more effectively relieving the user's muscle pain or menstrual cramps.

[0082] The heating device 242 may include a light-emitting diode (LED) that irradiates the skin surface of a user. The LED can provide a heating effect to the user by irradiating the skin surface with infrared or far-infrared rays, thereby promoting blood circulation, relieving pain, promoting recovery, and helping to improve blood circulation.

[0083] Reference Figure 5The low-frequency stimulation pad 241 and the heating device 242 can be adjusted by the user via the operating part 240. For example, the user can adjust the intensity, range, cycle, duration, etc. of the low-frequency electrical stimulation provided by the low-frequency stimulation pad 241 by operating the operating part 240, or adjust the intensity, range, duration, etc. of the heating effect provided by the heating device 242.

[0084] The air band 2 may be made of copper. By making the air band 2 made of copper, it has high thermal conductivity. Therefore, the heating effect of the air stretch pad 1 can be better transmitted to the user.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention, the air belt 2 can be worn around the lumbar spine of a user by means of Velcro 21 that is attached to each other at both ends in the horizontal direction. It may include a plurality of air tubes 22 that extend longitudinally and are arranged in the horizontal direction. Furthermore, a pair of low-frequency stimulation pads 241 and a pair of heating devices 242 may be provided on the inner surface of the air belt 2, which are symmetrically arranged in the horizontal direction. A belt operation part 240 may be provided on the outer surface of the air belt 2, which allows the user to adjust the low-frequency stimulation pads 241 and the heating devices 242.

[0086] According to this embodiment, the user can wear the air belt 2 and inject air into the air tube 22 to make it expand longitudinally, thereby fixing the lumbar spine in a way that prevents it from bending, twisting or contorting sharply, so as to produce a continuous traction effect on the lumbar spine.

[0087] Figure 6 This illustration shows a combination of other air stretch pads and air belts in one embodiment of the invention. Referring to the figures, a user can lie on the air stretch pad 1 while wearing the air belt 2.

[0088] The air pump 151 can be connected to the air belt 2. The air pump 151 can inject air into the air pipe 22 by connecting to the air belt 2. For this purpose, the air belt 2 can be provided with a nozzle or valve protruding from the air pipe 22 for connection to the air pump 151, and a nozzle or valve can extend from or protrude from the air pump 151 for connection to the nozzle or valve.

[0089] The connection between the air pump 151 and the air tube 22 can be manually operated by the user while wearing the air belt 2, or automatically operated when the user lies on the air stretching mat 1. For example, the air pump 151 includes a first valve located at the center of the lumbar spine air cavity 13, and the air belt 2 may include a second valve that complements the first valve, automatically engaging or connecting with the first valve when the user wears the air belt 2 and lies on the air stretching mat 1.

[0090] The air pressure injected into the air pipe 22 by the air pump 151 can be set below a predetermined appropriate air pressure. In this case, the control unit 15 can block the air injection while the appropriate air pressure is being injected into the air pipe 22. The appropriate air pressure can be determined according to the user's settings or preset programs. Therefore, the user can prevent damage to blood circulation or excessive pressure on the skin, muscles, and nerves caused by injecting excessive air pressure into the air pipe 2.

[0091] If a user is wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching mat 1, the air stretching device can recognize this. For this purpose, a predefined sensing device can be provided on the air stretching mat 1 or the air belt 2 to detect proximity, contact, connection, or engagement between the air belt 2 and the air stretching mat 1. However, in addition to this automatic method, the air stretching device can also identify whether a user is wearing the air belt 2 by means of user operation or input.

[0092] Re-reference Figure 3 A sensor 131 with identification function, connected to the control unit 15, can be disposed on the surface of the air cavity 13 in the lumbar region. (Refer to previous text) Figure 5 In this case, a belt identification part 151 can be provided on the surface of the air belt 2. For accurate alignment between the air stretch pad 1 and the air belt 2, the belt identification sensor 131 and the belt identification part 151 can be positioned at corresponding locations. Preferably, considering space utilization, symmetry, accurate position guidance, and ease of identification, the belt identification sensor 131 and the belt identification part 151 can be longitudinally arranged or extended at the center of the surfaces of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 and the air belt 2, respectively. Their positions and shapes are not limited to this, as long as they correspond to each other.

[0093] The identifiable part 151 may include an electrostatic tag such as a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. In this case, the identification sensor 131 may include an electrostatic sensor for identifying contact or proximity of the electrostatic tag. However, the sensor-identifiable part structure can take many forms, such as a protrusion of a defined shape and a corresponding pressure sensor. Any structure is acceptable as long as it allows for identification of the user while wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching pad 1.

[0094] If the air stretching device detects that a user is wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching mat 1, the air stretching device can notify the user that the user has been identified as wearing the air belt 2 through a designated notification unit. The notification unit can be sound or vibration, or it can be a visual display unit located on the air belt 2 and / or the air stretching mat 1.

[0095] Re-reference Figure 5 In one embodiment of the present invention, the notification unit may be a light-emitting diode 25 disposed on the operating section 240. In this case, the light-emitting diode 25 can illuminate when the air stretching device detects that the air strap 2 is being worn.

[0096] By recognizing whether a user is wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching mat 1, the control unit 15 can control the air chambers 11, 12, 13, and 14 in different ways depending on whether the user is wearing the air belt 2.

[0097] As an example, the control unit 15 can recognize when a user is wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching mat 1, thereby controlling the air pump 151 to inject air into the air belt 2. This control can be implemented in various ways. For example, if the connection between the air pump 151 and the air belt 2 is automatically executed when the user lies down, the air pump 151 can be controlled to inject air into the air belt 2 simply by the user wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching mat 1. Alternatively, the air pump 151 can also be controlled to inject air into the air belt 2 when the user is wearing the air belt 2 and manually connecting the air pump 151 while lying on the air stretching mat 1. Alternatively, the air pump 151 can also be controlled to inject air into the air belt 2 when the user is wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching mat 1, and the air belt 2 is connected to the air pump 151.

[0098] As another example, if the user is not wearing the air belt 2, the control unit 15 can control the air pressure injected into the lumbar spine air cavity 13 to be below a predetermined first maximum input. If the user is wearing the air belt 2, the control unit 15 can control the air pressure injected into the lumbar spine air cavity 13 to be below a predetermined second maximum input, which is less than the first maximum input. As the maximum air pressure of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 varies depending on whether the user is wearing the air belt 2, the pressure applied to the user's lumbar spine is adjusted to avoid excessive pressure. In particular, if the lumbar spine is subjected to excessive pressure facing forward, it may be overstretched, thus requiring a reduction in the pressure applied by the lumbar spine air cavity 13 to the user's lumbar spine, which is continuously subjected to pressure through the air belt 2.

[0099] Re-reference Figure 3 An overstretch detection sensor 132, connected to the control unit 15, can be disposed on the surface of the air cavity 13 in the lumbar region. (Refer to previous text) Figure 5 In this case, an overstretch detection part 232 can be provided on the surface of the air belt 2. The overstretch detection sensor 132 and the overstretch detection part 232 can be provided at corresponding positions.

[0100] The overstretch detection sensor 132 can be arranged in one or more symmetrical pairs at positions spaced apart from the center of the surface of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 in the width direction towards both sides. In this case, the overstretch detection part 232 can also be arranged in one or more symmetrical pairs at positions spaced apart from the center of the surface of the air belt in the width direction towards both sides. However, unlike this, the overstretch detection sensor 132 can also be arranged in one or a group at positions spaced apart from the center of the surface of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 in the width direction towards one side. In this case, the overstretch detection part 232 can also be arranged in one or a group at positions spaced apart from the center of the surface of the air belt 2 in the width direction towards one side.

[0101] In one embodiment of the present invention, the air belt 2 and the air stretching pad 1 can be connected to each other. Furthermore, in this case, the air stretching pad 1 may include a belt recognition sensor 131 and a pair of overstretch recognition sensors 132 respectively disposed at the center of the surface of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 and on both sides therein, and the air belt 2 may include a belt recognition portion 151 and an overstretch recognition portion 232 respectively disposed at the center of its surface and on both sides therein.

[0102] According to this embodiment, if a user wears the air belt 2 and lies on the air stretching pad 1, air is injected into the air belt 2, or the air pressure in the lumbar spine air chamber 13 is adjusted, thereby causing the air belt 2 and the air stretching pad 1 to work in conjunction with each other. Based on this linkage, the air stretching device can improve its safety by controlling the pressure received by the user's lumbar spine from the air belt 2 and the air stretching pad 1 to prevent excessive pressure. It can also provide multiple functions that the air belt 2 or the air stretching pad 1 cannot provide individually, and improve convenience in areas such as injecting air into the air belt 2.

[0103] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This illustrates the overstretching detection function of an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to these figures, if the air pressure in the lumbar spine air cavity 13 increases while the user is wearing the air belt 2 and lying on the air stretching pad 1, the expansion of the central part of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 is restricted due to the user's weight, potentially causing the left and right sides of the lumbar spine air cavity 13 to expand and rise. In this case, if the air pressure in the lumbar spine air cavity 13 reaches a predetermined pressure or higher, the overstretching detection sensor 132 will rise and approach the overstretched detection part 232, thereby identifying the overstretched detection part 232.

[0104] In this situation, the control unit 15 can control the air pressure in the lumbar spine air cavity 13 to no longer increase when the overstretch detection sensor 132 detects the overstretched detected part 232. In other words, the control unit 15 can interrupt the injection of air into the lumbar spine air cavity 13 when the overstretch detection sensor 132 detects the overstretched detected part 232.

[0105] Based on the distance between the overstretch detection sensor 132 and the overstretched detection portion 232 from the center of the lumbar spine air chamber 13 and the air belt 2 respectively in the width direction, the specified pressure at which the overstretch detection sensor 132 detects the overstretched detection portion 232 can be different. Therefore, the specified pressure is set below the pressure at which the user's lumbar spine begins to be overstretched, and the positions of the overstretch detection sensor 132 and the overstretched detection portion 232 are set accordingly, so that the overstretch detection sensor 132's detection of the overstretched detection portion 232 can be considered a risk indicator of overstretching of the user's lumbar spine. In this case, by limiting the increase in air pressure in the lumbar spine air chamber 13, overstretching of the user's lumbar spine is prevented.

[0106] [Air stretching method] Next, an air stretching method using an air stretching device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0107] Figure 9 and Figure 10 A graph illustrating the pressure applied to the lumbar spine of a user over time in an air stretching method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0108] Traction therapy for treating herniated discs includes intermittent traction and continuous traction. Intermittent traction is performed by repeatedly applying traction to the user's spine for a specified period of time, followed by specified rest periods. Continuous traction is performed by applying traction to the user's spine at a relatively low intensity for a longer period of time.

[0109] An embodiment of the air stretching method of the present invention may include: a traction step, wherein the air stretching device continuously provides an air pressure above a predetermined set traction pressure Pt to the lumbar spine of the user for a predetermined traction time; and a rest step, wherein the air stretching device continuously provides an air pressure below a predetermined set rest pressure Pr to the lumbar spine of the user, thereby providing the intermittent traction effect as described above.

[0110] The traction step and the rest step can be alternated repeatedly. Preferably, the traction step can be set to about 7 seconds, for example, it can be set to 5 to 10 seconds. Preferably, the rest step can be set to about 5 to 7 seconds, for example, it can be set to 3 to 10 seconds.

[0111] Preferably, the set rest pressure Pr is less than the set traction pressure Pt. In this case, if the set rest pressure Pr is 0, the air stretching method can provide an intermittent traction effect.

[0112] If the set rest pressure Pr is the same as the set traction pressure Pt, that is, the pressure applied to the user's lumbar spine is kept constant, the air stretching method can provide a continuous traction effect.

[0113] If the set rest pressure Pr is less than the set traction pressure Pt and the set rest pressure Pr is greater than 0, then the air stretching method can simultaneously provide intermittent traction and continuous traction effects. In this case, the smaller the difference between the set rest pressure Pr and the set traction pressure Pt, the less intermittent traction effect and the more continuous traction effect the air stretching method can provide.

[0114] An embodiment of the air stretching method of the present invention can provide intermittent traction and continuous traction to a user individually or simultaneously by utilizing the air stretching device in multiple different modes.

[0115] The various modes of the air stretching method will be described below.

[0116] [Intermittent traction mode] Users can achieve the following intermittent traction effect using the air stretching pad described in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0117] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the pressure applied to the user's lumbar spine over time when the user is not wearing an air belt but instead using an air tension pad. Referring to the figure, if the user is not wearing the air belt, the lumbar spine air chamber 13 can be controlled to maintain a predetermined first traction pressure P1 during the traction time and to maintain the air pressure at 0 during the rest time.

[0118] In this case, the pressure on the user's lumbar spine will be the same as the pressure provided to the user's lumbar spine by the lumbar air chamber, the set traction pressure Pt will be the same as the first traction pressure P1, and the set rest pressure Pr can be set to 0. In this case, the air stretching method can only provide intermittent traction effect without continuous traction effect.

[0119] [Continuous Traction Mode] Furthermore, the user can receive the following continuous traction effect using the air belt described in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0120] If a user wears the air belt and connects it to the air pump, air pressure can be supplied to the air hose. In this case, the pressure supplied to the air belt can be set to a specified belt traction pressure.

[0121] As described above, the filling of the air belt with air pressure can be started according to the user's operation or can be started automatically according to the automatic recognition of the control unit, and can be stopped when the air pressure reaches the belt traction pressure.

[0122] As described above, by wearing the air belt with the filling traction pressure, the user's lumbar spine can receive a continuous traction effect equivalent to the traction pressure provided by the air belt.

[0123] According to the continuous traction method using the air belt, the user can carry out daily life while wearing the air belt, thereby achieving continuous traction for a long time.

[0124] The continuous traction can be terminated at any time when the user removes the air pressure from the air belt or takes off the air belt, or it can be automatically terminated by having the control unit control the air pump to remove the air pressure from the air belt.

[0125] [Intermittent and continuous traction modes] Users can use the air stretching pad while wearing the air belt according to an embodiment of the present invention to simultaneously or alternately receive intermittent and continuous traction effects.

[0126] Figure 10 The diagram illustrates the pressure applied to the lumbar spine of a user over time when the user wears an air belt and utilizes an air tension pad. Referring to the figure, if the user wears the air belt, the lumbar spine air chamber 13 can maintain a second traction pressure P2 less than the first traction pressure P1 during the traction time, and can maintain the air pressure at 0 during the rest time.

[0127] In this case, the pressure provided by the air belt to the user can be set to a predetermined belt traction pressure P3. Thus, the pressure on the user's lumbar spine will be the same as the sum of the pressure provided by the lumbar air chamber to the user's lumbar spine and the pressure provided by the air belt to the user. Therefore, the set traction pressure Pt can be the same as the sum of the second traction pressure P2 and the belt traction pressure P3, and the set rest pressure Pr can be the same as the belt traction pressure P3. In this case, the air stretching method can simultaneously provide a continuous traction effect equivalent to the belt traction pressure P3 and an intermittent traction effect equivalent to the second traction pressure P2.

[0128] As described above, the air stretching method can perform stable continuous traction and intermittent traction in parallel or alternately by using air belts and air stretching pads in tandem.

[0129] In particular, according to this embodiment, by using the air belt and the air tension pad together in a linked manner, the user's lumbar spine is subjected to excessive pressure only from above, thereby providing the user with continuous and intermittent traction more safely and with higher strength without being overstretched.

[0130] Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the function of a posture-changing assistance step in an air-stretching method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to the figure, the air-stretching method may further include a posture-changing assistance step, wherein in at least one of the thoracic vertebral air chamber 12 and the sacrococcygeal vertebral air chamber 14, the air pressure on one side in the left-right direction is greater than the air pressure on the other side. If a user wears the air belt 2, the user's ability to bend over will be restricted, limiting their ability to stand up or turn over. In this case, by executing the posture-changing assistance step according to the operation of the control unit or a preset program, the user can more easily turn to one side and stand up.

[0131] The embodiments described are exemplary at all levels and should be understood as not limiting. The scope of the invention should be indicated by the appended claims, not by the detailed description described herein. Moreover, the meaning and scope of the appended claims, as well as all modifications and variations derived from their equivalents, should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the invention.

[0132] As described above, the present invention has been illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings disclosed in this specification, and various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the computational concept of the present invention. Moreover, even if the effects of the structure of the present invention are not explicitly described or explained in the process of describing the embodiments of the present invention, the effects that can be predicted based on the corresponding structure should be recognized.

Claims

1. An air stretching device, comprising: Control Department; Multiple air chambers are controlled to increase or decrease air pressure via the control unit, and a lumbar air chamber corresponding to the lumbar spine of the user is provided; The air belt, which can be worn around the user's lumbar spine and is equipped with multiple air tubes, is characterized in that the control unit includes an air pump connected to the air tubes, which can inject air.

2. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air strip includes a low-frequency stimulation pad disposed on the inner surface of the air strip, which is used to provide heat and low-frequency electrical stimulation to the user.

3. The air stretching device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The air belt includes a belt operating section for adjusting the heat provided by the low-frequency stimulation pad and the intensity of the low-frequency electrical stimulation.

4. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit blocks air injection when a specified appropriate air pressure is injected into the air pipe.

5. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the user wears the air belt, they can be identified.

6. The air stretching device according to claim 5, characterized in that, A belt recognition sensor, connected to the control unit, is provided on the surface of the air cavity in the lumbar region or on the back surface of the air belt. A belt identification part is provided on the dorsal surface of the air belt or on the surface of the lumbar vertebral air cavity. The belt recognition sensor identifies the belt when the belt being identified comes into contact with or comes within a specified distance from the belt recognition sensor and outputs a belt recognition signal to the control unit.

7. The air stretching device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The identification section includes an electrostatic tag. The identification sensor includes an electrostatic sensor that identifies contact or proximity of the electrostatic tag.

8. The air stretching device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit controls the air pressure injected into the lumbar spine air cavity to be below a specified maximum air pressure. If the user is not wearing the air belt, the maximum air pressure will be controlled below the first maximum input. If the user wears the air belt, the maximum air pressure is controlled to be below the second maximum input, which is less than the first maximum input.

9. The air stretching device according to claim 5, characterized in that, When a user wears the air belt and lies on the air stretcher, the air pump injects air into the air belt.

10. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Identify situations where the user's lumbar spine is overstretched.

11. The air stretching device according to claim 10, characterized in that, A pair of overstretch detection sensors are provided at a predetermined distance from the center of the surface of the lumbar vertebral air cavity or the dorsal surface of the air belt in the width direction toward both sides. A pair of overstretch identification portions are provided at a predetermined distance from the center of the air belt or the surface of the lumbar vertebral air cavity in the width direction toward both sides. The overstretch identification sensor identifies the overstretched part when it comes into contact with the overstretch identification sensor or comes within a specified distance, and outputs an overstretch identification signal to the control unit.

12. The air stretching device according to claim 10, characterized in that, If excessive stretching of the user's lumbar spine is detected, the system will control the system to stop injecting air into the air chamber of the lumbar spine.

13. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The lower pad is controlled by the control unit to increase or decrease the temperature; as well as The upper pad is positioned above the lower pad. The upper pad includes at least one material selected from ceramic, artificial stone, and natural stone.

14. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air band is made of copper.

15. The air stretching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It includes a sphere, which is controlled by the control unit to rotate and move at a corresponding position on the user's cervical spine.

16. An air stretching method, utilizing an air stretching device, said air stretching device comprising: Control Department; And an air chamber in the lumbar region, controlled by the control unit to increase or decrease air pressure, corresponding to the lumbar region of the user, the air stretching method is characterized by including: During the traction process, the air chamber in the lumbar spine maintains an air pressure above the specified traction pressure for a specified traction time. as well as During the rest period, the air chamber in the lumbar spine maintains an air pressure below the prescribed rest pressure for the specified rest time.

17. The air stretching method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The air stretching device includes an air belt that can be worn around the user's lumbar spine and is equipped with multiple air tubes. If the user is not wearing the air belt, the traction pressure will be controlled above the first traction pressure. If the user wears the air belt, the traction pressure will be controlled at a second traction pressure that is less than the first traction pressure and above.

18. The air stretching method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The air stretching device includes: The air chamber in the thoracic vertebrae corresponds to the user's thoracic vertebrae; and The air chambers in the sacrococcygeal region correspond to the sacrum and coccyx of the user. The air stretching method further includes a posture change assisting step, namely, in at least one of the thoracic vertebral air cavity and the sacrococcygeal vertebral air cavity, the air pressure on one side in the left-right direction is greater than the air pressure on the other side.

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