Muscle electrical stimulation device

Abstract

To provide a muscle electrical stimulation device that can be easily prepared before use and cleaned up after use.SOLUTION: An EMS device 1 has a first electrode portion 2a and a second electrode portion 2b, a control unit 3 configured to supply power to these electrode portions 2, an electrode holder 4 that holds the electrode portion 2, and an electrode cover 5 that covers the electrode portion 2. The electrode cover 5 is configured to expose the electrode portion 2 when the muscle electrical stimulation device 1 is used. The electrode holder 4 is configured so that its surface 42 can be deformed to conform to a user's body when the electrode portion 2 is pressed against the user's body.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical muscle stimulation device. [Background technology]

[0002] The muscle electrical stimulation device has electrodes that come into contact with the user's body, and is configured to apply electrical stimulation to the user's muscles by passing a weak current through the electrode. For example, Patent Document 1 describes an electrical stimulation device that includes a belt-shaped attachment part that is wrapped around the user's body, an electrode part that applies electrical stimulation to the body, a control part that controls the electrical signal supplied to the electrode part, a cord part that connects the electrode part and the control part, and a prevention part that prevents the cord part from coming into contact with the body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2016-93265 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, as in Patent Document 1, the electrical stimulation device configured to be worn on the body requires the work of wearing the electrical stimulation device on the body before use. In addition, after using the electrical stimulation device, it is necessary to remove the electrical stimulation device from the body. As such, the electrical stimulation device configured to be worn on the body requires complicated preparation before use and cleaning up after use, so there is a demand for an electrical muscle stimulation device that allows easier preparation before use and cleaning up after use.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above background, and aims to provide an electrical muscular stimulation device that can be easily prepared before use and easily cleaned up after use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a muscle electrical stimulation device for applying electrical stimulation to a user's muscle, A first electrode portion and a second electrode portion, A control unit configured to supply power to the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; an electrode holder that holds the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; an electrode cover covering the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; The electrode cover is configured to expose the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion when the muscular electrical stimulation device is used, The electrical muscle stimulation device has a surface that deforms to conform to the user's body when the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the user's body. Effect of the Invention

[0007] The electrical muscle stimulation (hereinafter referred to as "EMS") device has a first electrode portion and a second electrode portion, an electrode holder that holds these electrode portions, and an electrode cover that covers the electrode portions. The electrode cover is configured so that the electrode portions can be exposed when the EMS device is in use. Therefore, when using the EMS device, the user can prepare for EMS by simply exposing the electrode portions and pressing the electrode portions against the part to which electrical stimulation is to be applied.

[0008] In addition, the electrode holder is configured so that the surface of the electrode holder deforms to conform to the user's body when the electrode section is pressed against the user's body. Therefore, even when the electrode section is pressed against a relatively curved part of the body, such as the thigh or calf, the electrode holder and the electrode section provided on its surface can easily deform to conform to the shape of the user's body, and the contact area between the electrode section and the user's body can be sufficiently widened. As a result, the contact resistance between the electrode section and the user's body can be easily reduced.

[0009] Furthermore, since the electrode cover is configured to cover the electrode portion, after EMS is completed, the user can put away the EMS device by the simple operation of pulling the electrode portion away from the body and covering the electrode portion with the electrode cover.

[0010] As described above, according to the above-described aspect, it is possible to provide an electrical muscular stimulation device that can be easily prepared before use and easily cleaned up after use. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electrical muscular stimulation device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the electrical muscular stimulation device in the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a method of using the electrical muscular stimulation device in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of the electrical muscular stimulation device in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the operation of the electrical muscular stimulation device in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electrical muscular stimulation device in accordance with the second embodiment, in which an electrode cover is integrally formed with an electrode holder. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an electrical muscular stimulation device according to a third embodiment, in which the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are arranged in a different manner. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The specific form of the EMS device is not particularly limited, and it is sufficient that the surface of the electrode holder is configured to deform along the user's body when the electrode holder is pressed against the user's body. The EMS device can take various forms, such as a cushion with a cover filled with fiber, feathers, soft resin foam, beads, or other filling, an air cushion with air filled in the outer shell, or a water cushion with water filled in the outer shell.

[0013] The EMS device has a first electrode portion and a second electrode portion for applying electrical stimulation to the muscles of the user. These electrodes are held on the surface of an electrode holder. The EMS device applies a voltage so that a potential difference occurs between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion, thereby forming a circular current path including the electrodes, the user's body, and the control unit, and can apply electrical stimulation to the muscles of the user.

[0014] At least a part of the first electrode part and the second electrode part is made of a conductive material. The conductive material used for the first electrode part and the second electrode part is preferably elastic. In this case, when the first electrode part and the second electrode part are pressed against the body of the user, these electrode parts are deformed following the body of the user, and the electrical contact between the electrode part and the body of the user can be more easily ensured. Examples of such conductive materials include conductive elastomers and conductive cloths that are made conductive by conductive polymers. From the viewpoint of further reducing the contact resistance with the body of the user, the conductive cloth used for the first electrode part and the second electrode part preferably has a surface resistivity of 100Ω / □ or less, and more preferably has a surface resistivity of 80Ω / □ or less.

[0015] The first electrode unit and the second electrode unit preferably have a conductive cloth joined to the electrode holder and a water-impermeable material interposed between the electrode holder and the conductive cloth. When the electrode unit has a conductive cloth as the conductive material described above, the conductive cloth may be moistened with water before use of the EMS device in order to further reduce the contact resistance between the conductive cloth and the user's body. In this case, if a water-impermeable material is provided between the conductive cloth and the electrode holder, the penetration of water from the conductive cloth to the electrode holder can be suppressed. Therefore, by interposing a water-impermeable material between the electrode holder and the conductive cloth, the conductive cloth can be maintained in a moist state for a longer period of time.

[0016] The waterproof material may be a material that does not allow water to penetrate when water is applied to it. The waterproof material is configured to deform to conform to the body of the user when the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the body of the user. More specifically, the waterproof material may be an elastomer, a soft polyurethane foam, an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (i.e., EVA) foam, or the like.

[0017] The number and arrangement of the electrodes in the EMS device are not particularly limited and may take various forms. For example, the EMS device may have one first electrode and one second electrode provided at a position spaced apart from the first electrode. The EMS device may also have a plurality of first electrode and a plurality of second electrode.

[0018] It is preferable that the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion protrude outward from the surface of the electrode holder. In this case, when the electrode portion is pressed against the body of the user, the electrode portion and the body of the user are more likely to come into contact with each other. Therefore, in this case, a current path including the first electrode portion, the second electrode portion, and the body of the user can be more stably formed.

[0019] The first electrode section and the second electrode section are held by an electrode holder. The electrode holder is configured so that its surface can deform to conform to the user's body when pressed against the user's body. This makes it possible to provide an adequately large contact area between the first electrode section and the second electrode section and the user's body, making it easier to apply electrical stimulation to the user.

[0020] The electrode holder is preferably configured to be pressed against the user's body to deform it, and then to restore its shape before deformation by removing it from the user's body. When the electrode holder configured in this way is pressed against the user's body and deformed along the user's body, the electrode holder attempts to restore its original shape. Then, as the electrode holder restores, the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the user's body. As a result, the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion can be more reliably brought into contact with the user's body.

[0021] The electrode holder preferably has a water-repellent portion between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on its surface. As described above, the electrode portion may be moistened with water before use of the EMS device in order to reduce the contact resistance between the electrode portion and the user's body. Even in this case, by providing a water-repellent portion between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on the surface of the electrode holder, a short circuit between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion due to water can be more easily avoided.

[0022] The water-repellent portion is not particularly limited as long as it has water-repellent properties. For example, the water-repellent portion may be made of a fabric that has been treated to be water-repellent.

[0023] The electrode holder is preferably a cushion. That is, the EMS device is preferably configured so that it can also be used as a cushion. The EMS device configured in this way can be used simply as a cushion when EMS is not being performed, and can be placed in a daily living space such as a living room without feeling out of place. In addition, the EMS device can be prepared to perform EMS by a simple operation of pressing the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion against the user's body. Therefore, an EMS device equipped with a cushion as an electrode holder allows a user to easily perform EMS in a daily living space.

[0024] The EMS device has an electrode covering that covers the first electrode unit and the second electrode unit. The electrode covering may have various specific configurations as long as it can cover the electrode unit. For example, the electrode covering may be formed integrally with the electrode holder, or may be configured to be separable from the electrode holder.

[0025] The electrode covering is preferably configured to hold the EMS device with the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion pressed against the user's body. In this case, the electrode covering can maintain the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion in contact with the user's body when performing EMS. Therefore, the user does not need to press the EMS device against the body while performing EMS, and can perform tasks other than EMS at the same time. Therefore, the electrode covering configured in this manner can further improve the convenience of the EMS device.

[0026] It is preferable that the electrode covering has a belt-like shape, a first end of the electrode covering is joined to the electrode holder, and a second end of the electrode covering is provided with an engagement part configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder and / or the electrode covering. In this case, when using the EMS device, the electrode part can be exposed by a simple operation of removing the engagement part provided at the second end from the electrode holder and the electrode covering, and the EMS device can be prepared. After EMS is completed, the electrode part can be covered by a simple operation of winding the electrode covering around the electrode holder and engaging the engagement part provided at the second end with the electrode holder and / or the electrode covering, and the EMS device can be put away. Furthermore, when EMS is performed, the electrode covering is wound around the electrode holder and the user's body, and the engagement part provided at the second end is engaged with the electrode holder and / or the electrode covering, thereby maintaining a state in which both the first electrode part and the second electrode part are in contact with the user's body. Therefore, an EMS device provided with such an electrode covering can further improve usability for the user.

[0027] The specific configuration of the engaging portion is not particularly limited and may take various forms. For example, a hook, a snap button, a hook-and-loop fastener, or the like may be used as the engaging portion. In this case, the electrode holder and / or the electrode cover may be provided with an engaged portion corresponding to the engaging portion, so that the second end of the electrode cover can be engaged with the electrode holder and / or the electrode cover.

[0028] The control unit of the EMS device is configured to supply power to the electrodes to apply electrical stimulation to the muscles of the user. The control unit is preferably arranged at a position overlapping an interelectrode region between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on the surface of the electrode holder. That is, at least a part of the control unit is preferably located between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion. In this case, when assembling the EMS device, the work of electrically connecting the control unit and each electrode portion can be more easily performed. In addition, in this case, for example, when using the EMS device in a position in which the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion face upward, the user can more easily operate the EMS device.

[0029] It is more preferable that the control unit is disposed at a position overlapping with the center of the inter-electrode region. In this case, for example, when EMS is to be performed on the user's legs, the control unit can be disposed between the user's left and right legs so that the electrodes come into contact with the legs. This allows the user to perform EMS in a more natural posture.

[0030] The control unit has a first electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping the first electrode portion and a second electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping the second electrode portion, and it is preferable that the first electrode connection portion constitutes at least a part of the current path between the control unit and the first electrode portion, and the second electrode connection portion constitutes at least a part of the current path between the control unit and the second electrode portion. In this case, since the control unit and each electrode portion can be electrically connected via the electrode connection portion, it is not necessary to use electrical wiring to connect the control unit and each electrode portion. Therefore, it is possible to avoid disconnection due to deformation of the electrode portion or the electrode holder.

[0031] The first electrode portion and the second electrode portion preferably have a shape symmetrical with respect to a straight line connecting the center of the first electrode connection portion and the center of the second electrode connection portion, which can further reduce local bias of current in each electrode portion when a current is passed through the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion.

[0032] When the EMS device has a band-shaped electrode cover, it is preferable that the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electrode cover, and the control unit is disposed at a position overlapping an interelectrode region present between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on the surface of the electrode holder. By using such an EMS device, a user can more easily distinguish between a portion where the electrode cover can be easily wound while pressing the electrode portion against the electrode cover and a portion where it is difficult to wind the electrode cover. Therefore, the manner of use of the EMS device by the user can be easily guided to the manner intended by the designer of the EMS device.

[0033] The control unit is preferably detachably attached to the surface of the electrode holder. In this case, unintended operation of the EMS device can be prevented by removing the control unit from the EMS device.

[0034] The form of the electrical stimulation applied by the control unit is not particularly limited and may take various forms. For example, the control unit may be configured to apply a pulsed electrical stimulation to the user's muscle by switching between supplying and stopping power to the electrodes. The control unit may also be configured to apply a periodic electrical stimulation to the user's muscle by periodically changing the potential of the electrodes.

[0035] The control unit may be configured to control the operation of the entire EMS device in addition to switching between supplying and stopping power to the electrodes. For example, the control unit may be configured to be able to communicate with a wearable terminal configured to be able to acquire vital data such as the user's body temperature and sweat rate, and may be configured to control the supply of power to the electrodes based on the data acquired by the wearable terminal. The control unit may also be configured to acquire information regarding the usage status of the EMS device, such as the number of times and time the user performed EMS, and to transmit the information regarding the usage status of the EMS device to a server. The operation of the control unit may be realized, for example, by an electronic circuit or a program stored in a microcomputer. EXAMPLES

[0036] Example 1 An embodiment of the electrical muscle stimulation (hereinafter, referred to as "EMS") device will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 7. As shown in Fig. 1, the EMS device 1 of this embodiment has a first electrode section 2a and a second electrode section 2b for applying electrical stimulation to the muscles of a user, a control unit 3 configured to be able to supply power to these electrode sections 2, an electrode holder 4 for holding the electrode sections 2, and an electrode cover 5 for covering the electrode sections 2. The electrode cover 5 is configured to be able to expose the electrode sections 2 when the EMS device 1 is in use. The electrode holder 4 is configured to be deformable so that a surface 42 thereof conforms to the body of the user U when the electrode section 2 is pressed against the body of the user U, as shown in Fig. 5.

[0037] The EMS device 1 of this embodiment has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape as shown in FIG.

[0038] More specifically, the electrode holder 4 in the EMS device 1 is a cushion 41 including a cushion cover 411 and a nude cushion 412 housed in the cushion cover 411, and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, as shown in Fig. 3. The filling of the nude cushion 412 in the electrode holder 4 is made of polyester fiber, and when the nude cushion 412 is pressed, the nude cushion 412 can be restored to its original shape. Thus, the electrode holder 4 is configured to be pressed against the body of the user U to be deformed, and then to be released from the body of the user U to restore the shape before deformation.

[0039] Furthermore, the cushion cover 411 of the electrode holder 4 is made of a brushed polyester fabric and has water repellency. A part of the cushion cover 411 constitutes a water repellent portion 43 which will be described later.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the EMS device 1 has two electrode parts 2, a first electrode part 2a and a second electrode part 2b. The first electrode part 2a and the second electrode part 2b are provided on a cushion cover 411 of an electrode holder 4. As shown in FIG. 2, the first electrode part 2a and the second electrode part 2b are arranged on one surface of the electrode holder 4 with a gap between them. The first electrode part 2a and the second electrode part 2b extend in a second direction perpendicular to a first direction in which they are arranged. More specifically, the first electrode part 2a and the second electrode part 2b each have a rectangular shape. The first electrode part 2a and the second electrode part 2b are arranged with a gap between them so that their long sides face each other.

[0041] A water-repellent portion 43 made of a cushion cover 411 is provided on the surface of the electrode holder 4 between the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b.

[0042] 3, the first electrode portion 2a protrudes outward from the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. The first electrode portion 2a also has a conductive cloth 21 joined to the electrode holder 4 and a water-impermeable material 22 interposed between the electrode holder 4 and the conductive cloth 21.

[0043] Although not shown in the figure, the second electrode portion 2b, like the first electrode portion 2a, protrudes outward from the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. In addition, the second electrode portion 2b has a conductive cloth 21 joined to the electrode holder 4 and a water-proof material 22 made of a material that is impermeable to water and interposed between the electrode holder 4 and the conductive cloth 21.

[0044] The conductive cloth 21 in the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b of this example is specifically made of a cloth to which a conductive polymer is attached, and has elasticity. The outer peripheral edge of the conductive cloth 21 is sewn to the cushion cover 411. The water-shielding material 22 in the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b is made of soft polyurethane foam. The cushion cover 411 of this example is configured so that it can be washed with the conductive cloth 21 and the water-shielding material 22 attached.

[0045] The electrode covering body 5 in the EMS device 1 of this example is separate from the electrode holder 4 as shown in FIG. 1, and is configured so as to be attached to the electrode holder 4 so as to cover the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b.

[0046] More specifically, the electrode covering 5 is made of fabric and has a ring shape. Therefore, by placing the electrode holder 4 inside the ring of the electrode covering 5, the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b can be covered with the electrode covering 5. In addition, by removing the electrode covering 5 from the electrode holder 4 covered with the electrode covering 5, the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b can be exposed.

[0047] Furthermore, for example, as shown in Figure 5, by placing the electrode holder 4 and the body of the user U within the ring of the electrode cover 5 with the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b in contact with the body of the user U, the EMS device 1 can be held with the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b pressed against the body of the user U.

[0048] 1 and 2, the control unit 3 is detachably attached to the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. As shown in Fig. 2, the control unit 3 is disposed on the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4 at a position overlapping with the center of an interelectrode region 421 that exists between the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b. More specifically, the control unit 3 is disposed on a straight line L that connects the center of the first electrode portion 2a and the center of the second electrode portion 2b in a direction parallel to the long sides of the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b.

[0049] 4, the control unit 3 has a first electrode connection portion 30a provided at a position overlapping with the first electrode portion 2a, and a second electrode connection portion 30b provided at a position overlapping with the second electrode portion 2b. The first electrode connection portion 30a constitutes a part of the current path between the control unit 3 and the first electrode portion 2a, and the second electrode connection portion 30b constitutes a part of the current path between the control unit 3 and the second electrode portion 2b.

[0050] The center of the first electrode connection portion 30a and the center of the second electrode connection portion 30b are disposed on a straight line L (see FIG. 2) connecting the center of the first electrode portion 2a and the center of the second electrode portion 2b in a direction parallel to the long sides of the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b. That is, the straight line connecting the center of the first electrode connection portion 30a and the center of the second electrode connection portion 30b is the same as the straight line L connecting the center of the first electrode portion 2a and the center of the second electrode portion 2b. Therefore, the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b of this example have a symmetrical shape with respect to the straight line connecting the center of the first electrode connection portion 30a and the center of the second electrode connection portion 30b as shown in FIG. 2.

[0051] The first electrode connection part 30a in this example is specifically a top part of a snap, and has electrical conductivity. As shown in Fig. 4, the first electrode connection part 30a is configured to fit with a bottom part 23a (described later) provided on the conductive cloth 21a of the first electrode part 2a. The bottom part 23a has electrical conductivity, and by fitting the first electrode connection part 30a into the bottom part 23a, a current path including the first electrode connection part 30a and the bottom part 23a is formed between the control unit 3 and the first electrode part 2a.

[0052] Similarly, the second electrode connection part 30b in this example is specifically a top part of a snap and has conductivity. The second electrode connection part 30b is configured to fit with the bottom part 23b provided on the conductive cloth 21b of the second electrode part 2b, and by fitting the second electrode connection part 30b with the bottom part 23b, a current path including the second electrode connection part 30b and the bottom part 23b is formed between the control unit 3 and the second electrode part 2b. Details of the electrical connection between the control unit 3 and the first electrode part 2a and the second electrode part 2b will be described later.

[0053] 1 and 4, a base plate 31 for supporting the control unit 3 is provided between the control unit 3 and the electrode holder 4. The base plate 31 extends in a direction parallel to the short sides of the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b, and as shown in Fig. 4, a first end portion 311 of the base plate 31 is disposed on the first electrode portion 2a, and a second end portion 312 of the base plate 31 is disposed on the second electrode portion 2b.

[0054] Between the first end 311 of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21a of the first electrode portion 2a, there is interposed a welding cloth 211a that is welded to the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21a, respectively, and the first end 311 of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21a are joined via the welding cloth 211a. Furthermore, a snap bottom part 23a is provided on the first end 311 of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21a.

[0055] The bottom part 23a is composed of a post 231a and a stud 232a, and is conductive. The post 231a is attached to the side having the conductive cloth 21a in the stacking direction of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21a. The tip of the post 231a penetrates the conductive cloth 21a and the base plate 31 and protrudes from the base plate 31. In addition, a washer 24a made of conductive silicone is provided between the post 231a and the conductive cloth 21a. The stud 232a is attached to the side having the base plate 31 in the stacking direction of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21a, and is mechanically fastened to the part of the post 231a protruding from the base plate 31.

[0056] Therefore, when the first electrode connection portion 30a of the control unit 3 is attached to the bottom part 23a, a current path including the first electrode connection portion 30a, the bottom part 23a and the washer 24a is formed between the control unit 3 and the first electrode portion 2a, and the control unit 3 and the first electrode portion 2a are electrically connected via this current path.

[0057] The joining mode between the second end 312 of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21b of the second electrode portion 2b is the same as the joining mode between the first end 311 of the base plate 31 and the first electrode portion 2a described above. That is, the second end 312 of the base plate 31 and the conductive cloth 21b are joined by the welding cloth 211b and the snap bottom part 23b. In addition, a washer 24b made of conductive silicone is provided between the post 231b of the bottom part 23b and the conductive cloth 21b.

[0058] Therefore, when the second electrode connection portion 30b of the control unit 3 is attached to the bottom part 23b, a current path including the second electrode connection portion 30b, the bottom part 23b and the washer 24b is formed between the control unit 3 and the second electrode portion 2b, and the control unit 3 and the second electrode portion 2b are electrically connected via this current path.

[0059] An operation panel 32 for the user to operate the EMS device 1 is provided on the surface of the control unit 3. The control unit 3 is configured so that the user can operate the EMS device 1 via the operation panel 32 and apply electrical stimulation to the user's muscles.

[0060] More specifically, the control unit 3 of this example has an operation panel 32, a control unit 33, a contact detection unit 34, and a power supply unit 35, as shown in Fig. 6. The control unit 33 is connected to the operation panel 32, the contact detection unit 34, the power supply unit 35, the first electrode unit 2a, and the second electrode unit 2b, and is configured to be able to control the operation of the entire EMS device 1, including the supply of power to the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b. The control unit 33 may be configured, for example, by an electronic circuit or a microcomputer.

[0061] The control unit 33 of this example is configured to apply a voltage to the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b according to a previously stored exercise control program, and to apply an electrical stimulus having a predetermined pattern to the user's muscles. Examples of the exercise control program include an exercise control program for muscle hypertrophy and an exercise control program for fat burning. The control unit 33 may be configured to be able to execute one type of exercise control program, or may be configured to be able to select and execute one type of exercise control program from multiple types of exercise control programs.

[0062] The specific operation of the control unit 33 will be described later.

[0063] As shown in Fig. 2, the operation panel 32 has an operation switch 321 configured to be capable of generating an operation signal used to operate the EMS device 1. The operation signal generated by the operation switch 321 is input to the control unit 33. This allows the user to control the operation of the EMS device 1 via the operation panel 32. The operation signals input from the operation panel 32 to the control unit 33 include, for example, a signal to start applying electrical stimulation, a signal to stop applying electrical stimulation, a signal to change the intensity of electrical stimulation, a signal to change the exercise control program, and the like. These operation signals may be configured to be generated by a single operation switch 321. Also, a separate operation switch 321 may be provided for each type of operation signal.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 6, the contact detection unit 34 is connected to the control unit 33, the first electrode unit 2a, and the second electrode unit 2b, and is configured to distinguish between a state in which both the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b are in contact with the user's body and a state in which at least one of the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b is separated from the user's body, and to notify the control unit 33 of whether the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b are in contact with the user's body. The contact detection unit 34 may have, for example, a current sensor that measures the current flowing through the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b. When both the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b are in contact with the user's body, a current flows through a current path including the first electrode unit 2a, the second electrode unit 2b, and the user's body when a voltage is applied to the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b. Therefore, in this case, it is possible to distinguish between a state in which both the first electrode 2a and the second electrode 2b are in contact with the user's body and a state in which at least one of the first electrode 2a and the second electrode 2b is separated from the user's body, based on the magnitude of the current measured by the current sensor. In addition, the contact detection unit 34 can notify the control unit 33 of whether or not both the first electrode 2a and the second electrode 2b are in contact with the user's body, for example, by inputting the magnitude of the current measured by the current sensor to the control unit 33.

[0065] The power supply unit 35 is connected to the control unit 33 and is configured to be able to supply power necessary for the operation of the control unit 33. Moreover, the control unit 33 is configured to distribute the power supplied from the power supply unit 35 to each part of the EMS device 1 and to operate each part of the EMS device 1. The specific embodiment of the power supply unit 35 is not particularly limited. For example, the power supply unit 35 may be a primary battery or a power storage device such as a secondary battery or a capacitor. When a power storage device is used for the power supply unit 35, the control unit 3 may have a charging terminal for charging the power storage device. Moreover, the power storage device may be configured to be charged by a non-contact charging system.

[0066] The control unit 3 may further include a communication section 36 configured to be able to communicate with an external device. The content of the communication in the communication section 36 is not particularly limited. For example, the communication section 36 may be configured to be able to transmit data stored in the control section 33 and training history to the external device. The communication section 36 may be configured to be able to receive commands related to the operation of the EMS device 1 and changes to setting information from the external device. The communication section 36 may be configured to be able to perform wired communication with the external device, or may be configured to perform wireless communication.

[0067] Next, an example of the method of using and operation of the EMS device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. When using the EMS device 1, the user U operates the operation panel 32 while pressing the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b against the body to activate the EMS device 1 (step S1). Next, the user operates the operation panel 32 as necessary to select the type of exercise control program (step S2).

[0068] When the EMS device 1 is activated, the control unit 33 applies a pulsed voltage to the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b (step S3). At this time, the control unit 33 applies the voltage so that the polarity of the first electrode unit 2a becomes a first polarity and the polarity of the second electrode unit 2b becomes a second polarity different from the first polarity. In addition, the contact detection unit 34 measures the current flowing through the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b when the voltage is applied in step S3 (step S4).

[0069] When both the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b are in contact with the user's body, for example, a circular current path including the first electrode portion 2a, the second electrode portion 2b, and the user's body is formed. Therefore, when a voltage is applied to the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b in step S3, a current flows through the current path described above. On the other hand, when at least one of the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b is separated from the user's body, no current flows through the current path described above. Therefore, the control unit 33 can determine whether or not the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b are in contact with the user's body based on the magnitude of the current flowing through these electrodes (step S5).

[0070] If it is determined in step S5 that at least one of the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b is separated from the user's body (step S5, "No"), the control unit 33 determines whether the time elapsed since step S1 has exceeded a preset contact waiting time (step S51).

[0071] In step S51, if the time elapsed since step S1 is equal to or less than the contact waiting time (step S51, "No"), the control unit 33 executes steps S3, S4, and S5 again. On the other hand, for example, if the EMS device 1 is operated by mistake, no current flows through the current path described above even if the time elapsed since step S1 exceeds the contact waiting time in step S51. Therefore, in this case, the control unit 33 stops the operation of the EMS device 1 (step S51, "Yes").

[0072] In step S5, if it is determined that both the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b are in contact with the user's body (step S5, "Yes"), the control unit 33 supplies power to the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b in accordance with the motion control program, and applies electrical stimulation to the user's muscles (step S6). At this time, similar to step S3, the control unit 33 applies a voltage to the electrodes so that the polarity of the first electrode unit 2a becomes a first polarity and the polarity of the second electrode unit 2b becomes a second polarity different from the first polarity, and applies electrical stimulation to the user's muscles.

[0073] Furthermore, while applying the electrical stimulation, the control unit 33 determines whether a preset end condition is satisfied (step S7). Examples of the end condition include the end of the exercise control program, at least one of the first electrode unit 2a and the second electrode unit 2b being separated from the user's body, and the user issuing an instruction to stop the exercise control program. If the end condition is not satisfied (step S7, "No"), the control unit 33 continues applying the electrical stimulation after confirming that the electrodes are in contact with the user's body (step S5). On the other hand, if the end condition is satisfied, the control unit 33 stops the operation of the EMS device 1 (step S7, "Yes").

[0074] Next, the action and effect of the EMS device 1 of this embodiment will be described. As shown in Fig. 1, the EMS device 1 has a first electrode portion 2a and a second electrode portion 2b, an electrode holder 4 that holds these electrode portions 2, and an electrode cover 5 that covers the electrode portions 2. The electrode cover 5 is configured so that the electrode portions 2 can be exposed when the EMS device 1 is in use. Therefore, when using the EMS device 1, the user can prepare for EMS by simply removing the electrode cover 5 from the electrode portion 2 to expose the electrode portion 2, and pressing the electrode portion 2 against the part to which electrical stimulation is to be applied.

[0075] 5, the electrode holder 4 is configured so that when the electrode unit 2 is pressed against the body of the user U, the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4 deforms to conform to the body of the user U. Therefore, even when the electrode unit 2 is pressed against a relatively curved part of the body, the electrode holder 4 and the electrode unit 2 provided on its surface 42 can easily deform to follow the shape of the body of the user U, and the contact area between the electrode unit 2 and the body of the user U can be sufficiently widened. As a result, the contact resistance between the electrode unit 2 and the body of the user U can be easily reduced.

[0076] Furthermore, since the electrode cover 5 is configured to cover the electrode portion 2, the user can put away the EMS device 1 after EMS has been completed by the simple operation of removing the electrode portion 2 from the body and covering the electrode portion 2 with the electrode cover 5.

[0077] Therefore, the EMS device 1 allows easy preparation before use and easy cleanup after use.

[0078] 3, the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b have a conductive cloth 21 joined to the electrode holder 4, and a water-impermeable material 22 made of a material impermeable to water and interposed between the electrode holder 4 and the conductive cloth 21. Therefore, when the conductive cloth 21 is moistened with water before using the EMS device 1, the water-impermeable material 22 can suppress the penetration of water from the conductive cloth 21 to the electrode holder 4. As a result, the conductive cloth 21 can be maintained in a moist state for a longer period of time.

[0079] The first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b protrude outward from the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. Therefore, when the electrode portion 2 is pressed against the body of a user, the electrode portion 2 and the body of the user are more likely to come into contact with each other. As a result, the EMS device 1 can more stably form a current path including the first electrode portion 2a, the second electrode portion 2b, and the body of the user.

[0080] The electrode holder 4 is configured to be pressed against the user's body to deform it, and then to restore its shape before deformation when it is removed from the user's body. Therefore, when the electrode holder 4 is pressed against the user's body, the electrode holder 4 tries to restore its shape, and the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b are pressed against the user's body. As a result, the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b can be more reliably brought into contact with the user's body.

[0081] The electrode holder 4 has a water-repellent portion 43 between the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b on its surface 42. Therefore, even if the electrode portion 2 is moistened with water before using the EMS device 1, a short circuit between the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b due to water can be more easily avoided.

[0082] The electrode holder 4 in the EMS device 1 of this example is a cushion 41, and the EMS device 1 is configured so as to be usable as the cushion 41 as well. Therefore, the EMS device 1 of this example can be used simply as the cushion 41 when EMS is not being performed, and can be placed in a daily living space such as a living room without feeling out of place. Furthermore, the EMS device 1 can be prepared for EMS by the simple task of pressing the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b against the user's body. Therefore, the EMS device 1 equipped with the cushion 41 as the electrode holder 4 allows the user to easily perform EMS in the daily living space.

[0083] 5, the electrode cover 5 is configured to be able to hold the EMS device 1 in a state in which the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b are pressed against the body of the user U. Therefore, when performing EMS, the electrode cover 5 can maintain a state in which both the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b are in contact with the body of the user U. As a result, the convenience of the EMS device 1 can be further improved.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 3 is disposed at a position overlapping the center of the interelectrode region 421 on the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. Therefore, when assembling the EMS device 1, the work of electrically connecting the control unit 3 and the electrode section 2 can be performed more easily. In addition, for example, when using the EMS device 1 in a position in which the first electrode section 2a and the second electrode section 2b face upward, the user can operate the EMS device 1 more easily. Furthermore, since the control unit 3 is disposed at a position overlapping the center of the interelectrode region 421, for example, when EMS is to be performed on the user's legs, the control unit 3 can be disposed between the user's left leg and right leg to bring the electrode section 2 into contact with the legs. This allows the user to perform EMS in a more natural posture.

[0085] The control unit 3 has a first electrode connection portion 30a provided at a position overlapping the first electrode portion 2a and a second electrode connection portion 30b provided at a position overlapping the second electrode portion 2b, the first electrode connection portion 30a forming at least a part of the current path between the control unit 3 and the first electrode portion 2a, and the second electrode connection portion 30b forming at least a part of the current path between the control unit 3 and the second electrode portion 2b. Therefore, the control unit 3 and the electrode portion 2 can be electrically connected without using electrical wiring. As a result, disconnection due to deformation of the electrode portion 2 or the electrode holder 4 can be avoided.

[0086] The first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b have a shape symmetrical with respect to a straight line L connecting the center of the first electrode connection portion 30a and the center of the second electrode connection portion 30b. Therefore, when a current is passed through the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b, it is possible to further reduce local bias of the current in each electrode portion 2. Therefore, for example, when the electrode portion 2 is pressed against the user's leg with the control unit 3 disposed between the left leg and the right leg of the user, it is possible to easily reduce the difference between the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the left leg and the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the right leg.

[0087] The control unit 3 is detachably attached to the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. Therefore, by removing the control unit 3 from the EMS device 1, unintended operation of the EMS device 1 can be prevented.

[0088] Example 2 In this example, an example of an EMS device 102 will be described in which an electrode covering body 502 is formed integrally with an electrode holder 4. Among the symbols used in this example, the same symbols as those used in the previous examples indicate the same components, etc. as those in the previous examples unless otherwise specified.

[0089] 8, the EMS device 102 of this example has an electrode holder 4 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, a first electrode portion 2a and a second electrode portion 2b provided on one surface of the electrode holder 4, and a control unit 3 detachably attached to the surface of the electrode holder 4. The arrangement and configuration of these parts in the EMS device 102 of this example are similar to the arrangement and configuration of the corresponding parts in the EMS device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0090] The electrode covering 502 of this example has a belt-like shape extending in a direction parallel to the long sides of the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b. The first end 51 of the electrode covering 502 is joined to the electrode holder 4, and the second end 52 of the electrode covering 502 is provided with an engaging portion 521 configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder 4 and / or the electrode covering 502. The engaging portion 521 in the electrode covering 502 of this example is specifically a hook-and-loop fastener. Although not shown in the figure, an engaged portion that engages with the engaging portion 521 is provided on the back surface of the surface of the electrode holder 4 on which the electrode portion 2 is provided. The engaging portion 521 is configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder 4 by contacting with the engaged portion provided on the electrode holder 4. In addition, when the engaging portion 521 and the electrode holder 4 are engaged with each other, the engaging portion 521 is peeled off from the engaged portion to release the engagement between the engaging portion 521 and the electrode holder 4.

[0091] When using the EMS device 102 of this example, with the engaging portion 521 engaged with the electrode holder 4, the engaging portion 521 is peeled off from the engaged portion to expose the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b. After exposing the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b, the electrode cover 502 is wrapped around the user's body and the electrode holder 4 with the electrode portion 2 in contact with the user's body, thereby maintaining the state of contact between the user's body and the electrode portion 2.

[0092] When cleaning up after EMS is finished, the electrode cover 502 is wound around the electrode holder 4 so as to cover the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b, and the engaging portion 521 is engaged with the engaged portion.

[0093] As described above, the electrode covering 502 in this example has a band-like shape, and the first end 51 of the electrode covering 502 is joined to the electrode holder 4. In addition, the second end 52 of the electrode covering 502 is provided with an engaging portion 521 configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder 4 and / or the electrode covering 502. Therefore, when using the EMS device 102, the electrode section 2 can be exposed by a simple operation of removing the engaging portion 521 provided on the second end 52 from the electrode holder 4 and the electrode covering 502, and the EMS device 102 can be prepared.

[0094] After EMS is completed, the electrode section 2 can be covered and the EMS device 102 can be put away by a simple operation of winding the electrode covering 502 around the electrode holder 4 and engaging the engaging portion 521 provided at the second end 52 with the electrode holder 4 and / or the electrode covering 502. Furthermore, when EMS is performed, the electrode covering 502 is wound around the electrode holder 4 and the user's body, and the engaging portion 521 provided at the second end 52 is engaged with the electrode holder 4 and / or the electrode covering 502, thereby maintaining a state in which both the first electrode section 2a and the second electrode section 2b are in contact with the user's body.

[0095] The EMS device 102 has a strip-shaped electrode covering 502, and the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the electrode covering 502. The control unit 3 is disposed at a position overlapping an interelectrode region 421 that exists between the first electrode portion 2a and the second electrode portion 2b on the surface 42 of the electrode holder 4. Therefore, when using the EMS device 102, the user can more easily distinguish between a portion where the electrode covering 502 can be easily wound while pressing the electrode portion 2 against the electrode covering 502 and a portion where it is difficult to wind the electrode covering 502. Therefore, the manner of use of the EMS device 102 by the user can be more easily guided to the manner intended by the designer of the EMS device 102.

[0096] Therefore, the EMS device 102 of this embodiment has superior usability. In addition, the EMS device 102 of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the EMS device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0097] Example 3 In this example, another embodiment of the first electrode unit and the second electrode unit will be described. As shown in Fig. 9, the EMS device 103 of this example has an electrode holder 4 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and an electrode covering 502 having a band-like shape. A first end 51 of the electrode covering 502 is joined to the electrode holder 4, and an engagement portion 521 configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder 4 and / or the electrode covering 502 is provided at a second end 52. The arrangement and configuration of these parts in the EMS device 103 of this example are similar to the arrangement and configuration of the corresponding parts in the EMS device 102 of the second embodiment.

[0098] A first electrode portion 203a and a second electrode portion 203b are provided on one surface of the electrode holder 4. The first electrode portion 203a and the second electrode portion 203b each have a square shape and are arranged on one surface of the electrode holder 4 at a distance from each other. The first electrode portion 203a has a first lead portion 25a extending toward the second electrode portion 203b. The tip of the first lead portion 25a is arranged at a position overlapping with a control unit 303 described later. Similarly, the second electrode portion 203b has a second lead portion 25b extending toward the first electrode portion 203a. The tip of the second lead portion 25b is arranged at a position overlapping with a control unit 303 described later.

[0099] The EMS device 103 has a control unit 303. The control unit 303 of this example is disposed at a position overlapping the interelectrode region 421 existing between the first electrode portion 203a and the second electrode portion 203b. Although not shown in the figure, the control unit 303 has a first electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping the first lead portion 25a and a second electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping the second lead portion 25b. The first electrode connection portion constitutes a part of the current path between the control unit 303 and the first electrode portion 203a, and the second electrode connection portion constitutes a part of the current path between the control unit 303 and the second electrode portion 203b. The rest is the same as the EMS device 1 of the first embodiment.

[0100] The EMS device 103 of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the EMS device 102 of the second embodiment.

[0101] Although the above describes the aspects of the EMS device based on Examples 1 to 3, the specific aspects of the EMS device according to the present invention are not limited to the aspects of the Examples, and the configuration can be appropriately changed within the scope that does not depart from the spirit of the present invention.

[0102] For example, the EMS device according to the present invention may take the following aspects (1) to (11).

[0103] [1] A muscle electrical stimulation device for applying electrical stimulation to a user's muscles, A first electrode portion and a second electrode portion, A control unit configured to supply power to the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; an electrode holder that holds the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; an electrode cover covering the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; The electrode cover is configured to expose the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion when the muscular electrical stimulation device is used, An electrical muscle stimulation device in which, when the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the user's body, the surface of the electrode holder deforms to conform to the user's body.

[0104] [2] The electrical muscle stimulation device described in [1], wherein the electrode cover is configured to be capable of holding the electrical muscle stimulation device in a state in which the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the user's body. [3] A muscle electrical stimulation device as described in [1] or [2], wherein the electrode covering has a band-like shape, a first end of the electrode covering is joined to the electrode holder, and a second end of the electrode covering is provided with an engagement portion configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder and / or the electrode covering.

[0105] [4] A muscle electrical stimulation device described in any one of [1] to [3], wherein the control unit is positioned at a position overlapping with the inter-electrode area between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on the surface of the electrode holder. [5] An electrical muscle stimulation device as described in [4], wherein the control unit is positioned so as to overlap with the center of the inter-electrode area.

[0106] [6] The muscle electrical stimulation device described in any one of [1] to [5], wherein the control unit has a first electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping with the first electrode portion and a second electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping with the second electrode portion, the first electrode connection portion forming at least a part of the current path between the control unit and the first electrode portion, and the second electrode connection portion forming at least a part of the current path between the control unit and the second electrode portion. [7] The muscle electrical stimulation device described in [6], wherein the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion have a symmetrical shape with respect to a straight line connecting the center of the first electrode connection portion and the center of the second electrode connection portion.

[0107] [8] The electrical muscular stimulation device according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the control unit is detachably attached to a surface of the electrode holder. [9] An electrical muscle stimulation device described in any one of [1] to [7], wherein the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion protrude outward from the surface of the electrode holder.

[10] A muscle electrical stimulation device described in any one of [1] to [9], wherein the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion have a conductive cloth joined to the electrode holder and a water-impermeable material interposed between the electrode holder and the conductive cloth, the water-impermeable material being made of a material that is impermeable to water.

[0108]

[11] The electrical muscle stimulation device described in any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the electrode holder has a water-repellent portion between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on its surface.

[12] The muscle electrical stimulation device described in any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein the electrode holder is pressed against the user's body to deform it, and then restored to its original shape by removing it from the user's body.

[13] The electrical muscle stimulation device described in any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the electrode holder is a cushion. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 1, 102, 103 Electrical muscle stimulation device 2a, 203a First electrode part 2b, 203b Second electrode part 3, 303 control unit 4 Electrode holder 5, 502 Electrode covering

Claims

1. A muscle electrical stimulation device for applying electrical stimulation to a user's muscles, A first electrode portion and a second electrode portion, A control unit configured to supply power to the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; an electrode holder that holds the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; an electrode cover covering the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion; The electrode cover is configured to expose the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion when the muscular electrical stimulation device is used, An electrical muscle stimulation device in which, when the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the user's body, the surface of the electrode holder deforms to conform to the user's body.

2. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 1 , wherein the electrode cover is configured to be capable of holding the electrical muscle stimulation device in a state in which the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion are pressed against the user's body.

3. The muscular electrical stimulation device of claim 1, wherein the electrode covering has a band-like shape, a first end of the electrode covering is joined to the electrode holder, and a second end of the electrode covering is provided with an engagement portion configured to be able to engage with the electrode holder and / or the electrode covering.

4. The muscular electrical stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit is arranged at a position overlapping with the interelectrode region existing between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion on the surface of the electrode holder.

5. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit is disposed at a position overlapping with a center of the inter-electrode region.

6. The control unit has a first electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping with the first electrode portion and a second electrode connection portion provided at a position overlapping with the second electrode portion, the first electrode connection portion forming at least a part of the current path between the control unit and the first electrode portion, and the second electrode connection portion forming at least a part of the current path between the control unit and the second electrode portion. The muscular electrical stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 6 , wherein the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion have a shape symmetrical with respect to a straight line connecting a center of the first electrode connection portion and a center of the second electrode connection portion.

8. 4. The electrical muscular stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is detachably attached to a surface of the electrode holder.

9. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion protrude outward from a surface of the electrode holder.

10. The muscular electrical stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion have a conductive cloth joined to the electrode holder and a water-impermeable material interposed between the electrode holder and the conductive cloth, the water-impermeable material being made of a material that is impermeable to water.

11. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrode holder has a water-repellent portion on its surface between the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion.

12. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electrode holder is pressed against the user's body to be deformed, and then is removed from the user's body to restore the electrode holder to its original shape before deformation.

13. 4. The electrical muscular stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode holder is a cushion.

Images