Pressing method training device and pressing device

Abstract

To provide a pressing training device for enabling a person to acquire pressing skills for pressing treatment on the body, particularly, muscles of a person and the like.SOLUTION: A pressing training device 10 comprises: a pressing object body 21 to be pressed in a pressing direction by a user; a reciprocation mechanism 11 for causing the pressing object body to reciprocate along the pressing direction, by using drive force that is different from the pressing force from the user; a measuring unit 19 for measuring a pressing force applied by the user to the pressing object body 21; and a display unit 23 for displaying the measured pressing force. By using the pressing training device 10, a trainee can train the skills of consistently continuing to press muscles at a constant force such as approximately 500 gf, while the muscles of a patient repeats contraction and elongation and the skin repeats forward and backward movement, and the skills of forward moving a pressing point at acceleration of a gravitational acceleration of 1G or higher when the skin retracts and looses resistivity. These skills produce an effect of relaxing the muscles.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a training device for a user to learn pressure techniques (for example, pressure treatments on the body of a human or animal) performed by a person, and to a pressure device that automatically realizes pressure techniques. [Background technology]

[0002] Pressure treatment (e.g., physical actions such as pressing, rubbing, kneading, stroking, etc.) is applied to the surface of a human or animal's body tissue (e.g., muscle) using hands or an instrument to bring about medical, health, or psychological beneficial effects (hereinafter referred to as pressure treatment). Patent documents 1 to 6 describe techniques for supporting the implementation of pressure treatment.

[0003] Let's take the example of muscles, which make up approximately 50% of the human body. Muscle tension can cause a variety of physical problems or illnesses, including lower back pain, stiff shoulders, joint pain, sensitivity to the cold, and migraines. One cause of muscle tension is the accumulation of waste products within the muscles. To relax these tense muscles, the waste products need to be expelled from the muscles.

[0004] One effective method for this purpose is a pressure treatment known as Kanshoho (trademark) in this specification (see Non-Patent Document 1). Kanshoho is a treatment in which appropriate pressure is applied to the muscle from the surface of the body using fingers or other tools while the muscle is stretched and contracted. When Kanshoho is applied, uneven movement (relative movement) occurs between each muscle, between each muscle fiber, and between the hundreds of myofibrils within each muscle fiber, which is thought to promote the excretion of waste products trapped between the myofibrils and relax tense muscles, and this is why Kanshoho was devised. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-14442 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-172841 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-50725 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-33691 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-215563 [Patent Document 6] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-20161 [Non-patent literature]

[0006] [Non-Patent Document 1] Hirosumi Sakaguchi et al.: The effects of muscle relaxation therapy on lower back muscle tension and lower back pain, Journal of the Japanese Society of Integrative Medicine, Vol. 5, No. 1, 2012, http: / / www.jho.or.jp / 201203.pdf Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] To effectively perform Kansyo-ho, the patient must contract the target muscle for approximately two seconds, followed by another two seconds of stretching, while the patient or practitioner uses a pressure tool such as the fingertip (or the head of a stick held in the hand) to continuously apply a constant pressure of around 500 gf to a spot of approximately 1 cm2 on the skin surface covering the muscle.

[0008] During treatment, muscles contract and stretch, causing them to rise and fall, and the pressure spot also moves up (advance) and down (retreat) accordingly. It is necessary to continue pressing with a roughly constant force of around 500 gf while moving the pressing fingertip in accordance with this movement of the pressure spot. For convenience, this pressing action, in which pressure is continued with a constant pressure, is referred to in this specification as "constant-force continuous pressing."

[0009] However, applying continuous pressure at a constant force of approximately 500 gf is difficult for untrained people. Furthermore, as will be discussed later, mastering another pressure skill in addition to continuous pressure at a constant force is also recommended for effective Kansyo-ho.

[0010] Furthermore, areas requiring pressure skills such as constant, continuous pressure are not limited to Kanshoho, but may also exist in other fields, such as sports and martial arts.

[0011] An object of the present invention is to provide a training device that allows people to acquire the pressure skills required to perform Kansyo-ho.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a training device for a person to acquire the skill of constant-force continuous pressing.

[0013] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a pressure device that automatically realizes an effective pressure method in the slow release method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] A training device according to one embodiment includes a pressure-receiving body that is pressed in a pressing direction by a user, and a reciprocating mechanism that moves the pressure-receiving body back and forth along the pressing direction using a driving force separate from the pressing force from the user.

[0015] A training device according to another embodiment includes a pressure object that is pressed in a pressing direction by a user, and a constant force application mechanism that applies a constant force to the pressure object in a direction opposite to the pressing force from the user, and has the freedom of movement such that the pressure object moves back and forth along the pressing direction due to the pressing force from the user.

[0016] In another embodiment, the training device comprises a pressure object that is pressed in a pressing direction by a user, and a drive mechanism that moves the pressure object in a direction intersecting the pressing direction using a drive force separate from the pressing force from the user, and is configured so that when the forward pressing force from the user reaches a predetermined magnitude, the movement of the pressure object stops against the drive force.

[0017] According to yet another embodiment, the pressure device includes a presser element that can advance and retreat to press a predetermined area of ​​a muscle, and is configured to continuously apply a predetermined strength of forward pressure to the presser element while the presser element is pressing against the muscle, and to advance the presser element at a pressure acceleration equal to or greater than a gravitational acceleration of 1 G when the reaction force from the muscle to the presser element disappears while the presser element is pressing against the muscle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the constant, continuous pressure that is desired when implementing the gradual disappearance method. [Figure 2] This is a diagram to explain another pressing skill (high acceleration pressing) that is desired when performing Kanshoho. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the principle of muscle relaxation by Kansyo method. [Figure 4] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a pattern in which the reciprocating mechanism is reciprocated. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of use of the pressure method training device of the same embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a pressure method training device according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a pressing device according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a mechanism for advancing the pressing element. [Figure 20] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a pressing device according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a pressing device according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Hereinafter, pressure training devices according to various embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are illustrative for explaining the present invention, and have been omitted or simplified as appropriate for clarity of explanation. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and all applications consistent with the concept of the present invention are included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0020] To facilitate understanding of the training principles of the training device according to the embodiment, we first explain the constant-force continuous pressure desired in the Kansyo method and another pressure skill (high-acceleration pressure). To give an easy-to-understand example, as shown in Figures 1(A) and 1(B), a pressure tool 3 with a mass of 500 g is placed on muscle 1, and muscle 1 is contracted (Figure 1(A)) and stretched (Figure 1(B)) for approximately two seconds each. In this case, pressure tool 3 rises and falls along with muscle 1, while continuing to press muscle 1 with a constant weight of 500 gf (the speed of its rise and fall is so slow that it can be considered constant). In this way, pressure tool 3 placed on muscle 1 in a state where it can fall naturally can perform constant-force continuous pressure.

[0021] However, as shown in Figure 1(C) and (D), when a person presses muscle 1 with fingertip 5, even if they try to maintain a pressure of 500 gf, when muscle 1 contracts and rises (Figure 1(C)), fingertip 5 cannot keep up with the rise, and the pressure tends to become much greater than 500 gf. Conversely, when muscle 1 expands and lowers (Figure 1(C)), fingertip 5 cannot keep up with the descent, and the pressure tends to become much less than 500 gf. This is one example of how the average person cannot perform constant, continuous pressure.

[0022] As shown in Figure 2, whether a 500-g object presses on a muscle in a gravitational field of 1 G (gravitational acceleration 9.8 m / s²) (Figures 2(A) and 2(B)), or a 250-g object presses on a muscle in a gravitational field of 2 G (gravitational acceleration 19.6 m / s²) (Figures 2(C) and 2(D)), the muscle can continue to be pressed with the same force of 500 gf. However, when the pressure point 9 where the object presses on the muscle moves (e.g., descends), for example, when pressure is first applied to the muscle or when the muscle elongates and its position drops, as in the transition from (A) and (C) to (B) and (D) in Figure 2, the speed of movement of the pressure point 9 can differ between the 1 G and 2 G cases. In other words, because the free-fall acceleration of the object is greater in the 2 G case than in the 1 G case, the speed of movement (descension) of the pressure point 9 becomes faster, especially when the muscle descends very quickly or when the muscle is very soft.

[0023] We compared the muscle relaxation effects of a skilled Kansho practitioner applying Kansho pressure at 500 gf and a 500 g object applying pressure in a 1 G gravitational field, as shown in Figures 2(A) and (B), and found that the skilled practitioner achieved a greater relaxation effect. This is presumably because the skilled practitioner can apply pressure to the muscle at an acceleration greater than the gravitational acceleration in a 1 G field, as in the 2 G field described above. In other words, under circumstances in which the pressure point 9 can move forward at a fairly high speed with a given pressure of 500 gf, such as when pressure is first applied or when the muscle retreats at a fairly high speed, the skilled practitioner can apply pressure with a given pressure while moving forward at an acceleration (or speed) greater than or equal to the gravitational acceleration of 1 G, preferably greater than 1 G. This is presumably how a good muscle relaxation effect can be achieved. In this specification, for convenience, a pressing operation in which a predetermined pressing force is applied while moving forward at an acceleration (or high speed) greater than or equal to 1 G of gravitational acceleration, preferably greater than 1 G, will be referred to as a "high acceleration pressing" operation.

[0024] One hypothesis as to why high-acceleration pressing movements can effectively relax muscles is described below.

[0025] Figure 3 shows the principle of muscle relaxation by the Kansho method. In the Kansho method, a pressure tool 3, such as a fingertip, is used to continuously press a pressure point 9 on the surface of the skin 24, during which time the muscle 1 contracts for approximately two seconds and then stretches for the next two seconds. The muscle 1 has a large number of muscle fibers 1-1 to 1-5, and while the muscle 1 is contracting and stretching, the muscle fibers 1-1 to 1-5 tend to move in the direction of their fibers as they contract and stretch, as shown by the arrows.

[0026] However, directly below pressure point 9, muscle fibers 1-1 and 1-2, to which a relatively strong pressure is applied, are unable to move or move only slightly, while muscle fibers 1-3, 1-4, and 1-5, to which a relatively weak (or no) pressure is applied, move more easily and significantly. This causes relative movement between muscle fibers. Naturally, relative movement between muscle fibers also causes relative movement between the numerous myofibrils (not shown) that make up each of those muscle fibers. Previous research has shown that relative movement between muscle fibers and between myofibrils promotes the excretion of waste products accumulated between muscle fibers and between myofibrils, causing muscles that have become stiff due to the waste products to relax and soften.

[0027] In this way, simply put, in the Kansyo method, while the muscles are contracting and stretching, it is essential to stop the movement of the muscle fibers in a relatively shallow position by applying pressure from above the skin, and to allow the movement of the muscle fibers in a relatively deep position, thereby creating relative movement between the muscle fibers. To achieve this, it is assumed that it is effective to apply the above-mentioned high-acceleration pressure in addition to the above-mentioned constant pressure of about 500 gf.

[0028] In the example shown in Figure 3, if fingertip 3 is pressed at a very slow speed against pressure spot 9 on skin 24, a pressure of, say, 500 gf is applied equally to the numerous muscle fibers 1-1 to 1-5 from shallow to deep positions, and as a result, it is expected that the movement of muscle fibers 1-1 to 1-5 at all depths will be similarly suppressed. On the other hand, if fingertip 3 is pressed against pressure spot 9 with a large acceleration, a pressure of, say, 500 gf is transmitted only to the shallow muscle fibers 1-1 and 1-2, stopping their movement, but is not transmitted to the deep muscle fibers 1-3 to 1-5, which are thought to move. This causes relative movement between muscle fibers, resulting in the muscle relaxation effect.

[0029] Thus, (though this is merely a speculative hypothesis) it seems that applying high-acceleration pressure is effective in achieving muscle relaxation. In fact, we had experts and beginners of Kansho-ho perform an experiment in which two plastic sheets, simulating multiple muscle fibers, were placed on top of each other on a flat table, and the table was moved back and forth horizontally while the top sheet was pressed downward with a fingertip at approximately 500 gf. Despite applying roughly the same pressure of approximately 500 gf, the experts were able to create a state in which only the top sheet remained stationary while the second sheet moved, whereas the beginners either both remained stationary or moved together. We speculate that this experimental result is due to the fact that the experts were able to perform both constant-force continuous pressure and high-acceleration pressure, while the beginners were only able to perform constant-force continuous pressure and were unable to perform high-acceleration pressure.

[0030] Below, we will explain several embodiments of the pressure method training device, which are configured to be able to train one or both of the skills of constant force continuous pressure and high acceleration pressure.

[0031] 4 shows a pressure training device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The pressure training device 10 includes a reciprocating mechanism 11 that simulates muscle contraction and extension, a base 12 placed on a base B such as a table or desk, a support 13 provided on the top surface of the base 12, and a holding member 14 provided on the support 13 that holds the reciprocating mechanism 11 so that it can move left and right.

[0032] The reciprocating mechanism 11 includes, for example, a housing 15 with a ball screw mechanism and an open bottom plate that is slidable left and right relative to a holding member 14 in the figure, a motor 16 attached to an end plate of the housing 15, a sliding nut 17 fixed to the holding member 14, and a threaded bolt 18 that threadably engages with the sliding nut 17 and is attached to the rotation shaft of the motor 16. The reciprocating mechanism 11 moves left and right relative to the support 13 in the figure as the motor 16 rotates forward and backward. For example, when the motor 16 rotates forward, the reciprocating mechanism 11 moves rightward, and when the motor 16 rotates backward, the reciprocating mechanism 11 moves leftward.

[0033] A holder 20 is provided at one end (the right end in the figure) of the housing 15 of the reciprocating mechanism 11 via a pressing force sensor 19. The holder 20 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape with one end (the right end in the figure) open. A plurality of types of pressed bodies 21A to 21C having different hardness or surface textures can be selectively attached to the opening of the holder 20. For example, the pressed body 21A is a hard, lid-like member. The pressed body 21B is a rubber ball (balloon) that imitates the softness of muscle. The pressed body 21C is a soft object (e.g., a towel or sponge) that imitates the way a muscle is pressed through clothing. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the types of pressed bodies 21A to 21C, they will simply be referred to as pressed bodies 21.

[0034] An acceleration sensor 22 that measures the acceleration of movement in the pressing direction may be attached to the pressing point (the point pressed by the user) of the pressure target 21. The acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor 22 is displayed on a display 23, which will be described later. The pressing force detected by the pressing force sensor 19 is also displayed on the display 23. This allows both the pressing force from the user and the acceleration to be measured together, allowing the user to practice pressing with a large acceleration in addition to practicing continuous pressing with a constant force.

[0035] An operation panel (not shown) for operating the motor 16 is provided on the base 12. This operation panel is provided with a display 23 that can display the pressure value detected by the pressing force sensor 19. For example, while pressing the pressing point of the pressure target 21, the user can practice by watching the display on the display 23 so that the user can always maintain a constant pressing force (500 gf) regardless of how the reciprocating mechanism 11 moves. This allows the user to learn the skill of applying constant, continuous pressure.

[0036] In this embodiment, objects with different hardnesses or surface textures are prepared as the pressure target 21. When a user actually presses the pressure target 21 with 500 gf, the sensation of pressing with the same 500 gf varies depending on whether the pressure point is soft or hard, or depending on the texture of the surface of the pressure point. For this reason, even if the user thinks they are pressing with the same 500 gf, the actual pressure may be more or less than 500 gf. Therefore, in this embodiment, pressure target 21A-21C with different hardnesses and textures are attached to the holder 20 so that the user can press with a constant value of 500 gf even if the objects have different hardnesses or textures.

[0037] The display 23 may not only simply display the pressure, but also display a pressure change curve. This allows the user to see the change curve when the pressure is strong or weak, making it easier to control (practice). Also, a speed change curve calculated from the measured acceleration may be displayed on the display 23. This also applies to other embodiments described later.

[0038] FIG. 5 shows an example of a reciprocating pattern for the reciprocating mechanism. For example, a periodic reciprocating motion can be used, simulating the forward and backward movement of the skin surface during muscle exercise, such as the relaxation technique, in which muscles are contracted for approximately two seconds and then extended for the next approximately two seconds (solid curve in the figure). The amplitude (distance) of this forward and backward movement is a distance at which the user can clearly sense the forward and backward movement by touching it with their finger, preferably an appropriate distance selected from the range of 1 to 7 centimeters. In this respect, the training device according to this embodiment is clearly distinguishable from the case where the user pushes the platform of a general weighing scale during practice, in which the user barely senses the up and down movement of the platform. This also applies to other embodiments of the reciprocating mechanism described below.

[0039] In addition to this periodic motion, a small, oscillating motion (dashed curve) may be added (superimposed) that moves forward and backward at a faster speed (i.e., a steeper slope of the curve in Figure 5), a shorter period, and a smaller amplitude (e.g., an appropriate amplitude selected from the range of 0.1 to 1 centimeter so as not to disrupt the pressing motion performed by the user). Alternatively, instead of the periodic reciprocating motion, this high-speed, small, oscillating reciprocating motion alone may be performed. By following this high-speed oscillatory motion with their finger and pressing while maintaining a constant pressing force of 500 gf as much as possible, the user can practice the skill of pressing with a high acceleration (or high speed) of more than 1 G, like a skilled user. The period, amplitude, and speed of the reciprocating motion may be arbitrarily adjusted manually or automatically.

[0040] FIG. 6 shows a pressure training device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The pressure training device 30 includes a base 31 placed on a base B such as a table or desk, a support 32 attached to the top of the base 31, a shaft 33 rotatably attached to the top of the support 32, a spool (roller) 34 fixed to the shaft 33 and rotating together with the shaft 33, an arm 35 fixed to the shaft 33 and rotating together with the shaft 33, and a support 36 attached to the arm 35. A string 37 is wound around the spool 34. Attached to one end of the string 37 is a weight 38 having a mass that balances a pressing force of, for example, 500 gf applied circumferentially to the support 36. The weight 38 constantly applies a force to the spool 34 to rotate it clockwise in the drawing.

[0041] A holder 40 is provided at one end (the right end in the drawing) of the support portion 36 via a pressing force sensor 39. The holder 40 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape with one end (the right end in the drawing) open. As in the first embodiment, a rubber ball that simulates the softness of muscle or other types of pressed object 41 are selectively attached to the opening of the holder 40.

[0042] The mechanism including the spool 34, string 37, weight 38, and arm 35 described above functions as a constant-force applying mechanism that applies a constant, appropriate force (e.g., 500 gf) to the pressure-receiving body 41 in the opposite direction to the pressure from the user. This constant-force applying mechanism is configured to allow the pressure-receiving body 41 to move back and forth in the direction of pressure when a substantially constant, appropriate pressure from the user, e.g., a pressure of approximately 500 gf, is applied. The distance that the pressure-receiving body 41 can move back and forth with a substantially constant pressure from the user is a distance that the user can clearly sense by touching it with their own finger, and may be, for example, a distance of 1 centimeter or more (e.g., the distance of several centimeters that a pressing finger moves back and forth when performing Kansyo-ho on an actual body). In this respect, the training device according to this embodiment is clearly distinguishable from a typical weighing scale, in which the up and down movement of the object platform when the user presses it is almost imperceptible to the user. This also applies to other embodiments having a constant-force applying mechanism, described below.

[0043] The user holds the weight 38 so that it does not fall by pressing the pressure point of the pressure target 41 with a force of approximately 500 gf with their finger, and then slowly moves their finger back and forth a short distance (for example, about a centimeter) to swing the arm 35. At this time, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing, in which the pressure continues with a constant pressure as the pressure spot moves, by moving their finger back and forth while maintaining a substantially constant pressure of approximately 500 gf against the weight of the weight 38. The user can also practice generating a pressure of 500 gf by changing the weight 38 to a weight that is lighter than 500 g, for example, 150 g, and pressing the pressure point with an acceleration greater than the acceleration of gravity, thereby generating a pressure of 500 gf due to the forward acceleration of the finger.

[0044] An acceleration sensor 42 that measures acceleration in the pressing direction may be attached to the pressing point of the rubber ball 41. As in the first embodiment, the detected values ​​and calculation results of the pressing force sensor 39 and the acceleration sensor 42 may be displayed on the display 23. This allows the acceleration to be measured as well, allowing the user to practice pressing with a large acceleration in addition to practicing continuous pressing with a constant force.

[0045] 7 shows a pressure method training device according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same elements as those described in the first and second embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0046] The pressure method training device 50 has a base 31 placed on a base B such as a table or desk, a support 32 provided on the top surface of the base 31, an axis 33 rotatably provided on the top of the support 32, a spool (roller) 34 fixed to the axis 33 and rotating together with the axis 33, an arm 35 fixed to the axis 33 and rotating together with the axis 33, and a holding member 14 provided on the arm 35 and holding a reciprocating mechanism 11 movably in the left-right direction. The configuration and function of the reciprocating mechanism 11 are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the reciprocating motion may be performed in a pattern that simulates the contraction and extension of muscles illustrated in FIG.

[0047] A constant force applying mechanism is provided in the same manner as in the second embodiment. That is, a string 37 is wound around a spool 34. A weight 38 having the same mass as that in the second embodiment is attached to one end of the string 37. This weight 38 applies a force to the spool 34 to rotate it clockwise in the figure. A holder 40 is provided at one end of the reciprocating mechanism 11 via a pressing force sensor 39. A rubber ball or other type of pressed object 41 is attached to the opening of the holder 40.

[0048] In this embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing, which is pressing with a constant force (500 gf), by continuing to press the pressed body 41 while minimizing rotation of the spool 34 (avoiding vertical movement of the weight 38) even when the pressing point of the pressed body 41 moves back and forth by the reciprocating mechanism 11. It is also possible to practice pressing with a large acceleration.

[0049] As in the second embodiment, an acceleration sensor 42 for measuring acceleration in the pressing direction may be attached to the pressing point of the rubber ball 41. The detected values ​​of the pressing force sensor 39 and the acceleration sensor 42 and their calculation results may be displayed on the display 23. This helps the user practice pressing with high acceleration.

[0050] 8 shows a pressure method training device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The pressure method training device 60 has an outer cylinder 61 that is attached to, for example, a vertical wall W and has one closed end and the other open end, an inner cylinder 63 that is also closed at one end and open at the other and can move left and right inside the outer cylinder 61 via bearings 62, and a display 64 that is attached to the top plate of the outer cylinder 61 and displays the position of the inner cylinder 63.

[0051] An object sensor 65 capable of detecting whether the inner cylinder 63 is within a predetermined positional range is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder 61 at a position within the range of movement of one end of the inner cylinder 63. The detection result of the object sensor 65 is displayed on a display 64. Furthermore, a stopper 66 that restricts rightward movement of the inner cylinder 63 in the figure is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the outer cylinder 61 at a position corresponding to a predetermined limit of rightward movement of the inner cylinder 63.

[0052] A disk-shaped abutment plate 67 having a diameter larger than that of the inner cylinder 63 is provided at one end of the inner cylinder 63. The abutment plate 67 abuts against the end plate of the outer cylinder 61, thereby restricting movement of the inner cylinder 63 to the left in the figure. The abutment plate 67 also abuts against a stopper 66, thereby restricting movement of the inner cylinder 63 to the right. In other words, the inner cylinder 63 is able to move from a position where the abutment plate 67 abuts against the end plate of the outer cylinder 61 to a position where it abuts against the stopper 66.

[0053] Two pulleys (rollers) 68, 69 are provided inside the inner cylindrical body 63 and rotatably supported on the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylindrical body 61. The rotation axes of the two pulleys 68, 69 pass through openings 73 formed in the side wall of the inner cylindrical body 63 and are attached to the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylindrical body 61. A string 70 is suspended between the two pulleys 68, 69. One end of the string 70 is fixed to an end plate of the inner cylindrical body 63. A weight 71 having a mass of, for example, 500 g is attached to the other end of the string 70. The weight 71 can move up and down inside the inner cylindrical body 63. When the weight 71 reaches its uppermost position, the abutment plate 67 abuts against the end plate of the outer cylindrical body 61 (the inner cylindrical body 63 is moved all the way to the left). When the weight 71 reaches its lowest position, the contact plate 67 comes into contact with the stopper 66 (the inner cylinder 63 is advanced to the farthest right). The two pulleys 68, 69, the string 70, and the weight 71 constitute a constant force applying mechanism that applies a constant, appropriate force, for example, 500 gf, to the pressed body 21 in the direction opposite to the pressure from the user.

[0054] An open holder 72 is formed at the other end of the inner cylinder 63. A plurality of types of pressure target bodies 21 (21A-21C) having different hardness or tactile sensations can be selectively attached to the holder 72. An acceleration sensor 22 that measures acceleration in the pressure direction may be attached to the pressure target body 21 at the pressure point. The acceleration measured by the acceleration sensor 22 is displayed on the display 64. The user can practice constant-force continuous pressure by slowly moving the inner cylinder 63 left and right while continuously pressing the pressure target body 21 with a constant force close to 500 gf. The user can also practice high-acceleration pressure by pressing with a high acceleration at the start of pressing, while watching the detection value of the acceleration sensor 22.

[0055] Fig. 9 shows an example of how to use the pressure method training device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In this example, a pressure target 21C (e.g., a towel or sponge) is attached to holder 72 of inner cylinder 63. As shown in Fig. 9, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressure by continuing to press pressure target 21C with a constant pressure while moving inner cylinder 63 back and forth within a certain positional range of object sensor 65.

[0056] 10 shows a pressure method training device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same elements as those described in the fourth embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0057] The pressure method training device 80 has a support device 81 that supports an outer cylinder body 61. The support device 81 has a housing 82 attached to a vertical wall W, and a pantograph jack 83 provided inside the housing 82. The housing 82 is cylindrical with one end closed and the other end open, and a part of the outer cylinder body 61 can be inserted inside it.

[0058] The pantograph jack 83 is an application of a ball screw mechanism and includes a pair of left arms 84 pivotally mounted at one end to an end plate of a housing 82, a pair of right arms 87 connected at one end to the other end of the left arms 84 via slide nuts 85 and 86, a base 88 pivotally mounted at the other end of the right arms 87 to an end plate of the outer cylinder 61, and a threaded bolt 89 threadedly engaging with the slide nuts 85 and 86. One end of the threaded bolt 89 is attached to the rotating shaft of a motor M. The pantograph jack 83 is configured so that the base 88 (the pressing point of the pressed body 21) can be reciprocated forward and backward by the forward and reverse rotation of the threaded bolt 89. This reciprocating motion may be performed in a pattern exemplified in FIG. 5.

[0059] According to this embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing by continuing to press the pressing point with a constant pressure so that the inner cylinder body 63 always remains within a certain position range of the object sensor 65, even if the pressing point of the pressed body 21 moves back and forth.

[0060] 11 shows a pressure method training device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same elements as those described in the fourth embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0061] The pressure training device 90 has a reciprocating mechanism 91 that moves the object to be pressed 21 back and forth in the left-right direction in the figure. The reciprocating mechanism 91 has an air supply / exhaust means 92 equipped with an air pump, an exhaust valve, etc., an inflatable / contractable air bag 93, and a flexible air tube 94 connecting the air supply / exhaust means 92 and the air bag 93. The air bag 93 is provided between the other end of the outer tube body 61 and the object to be pressed 21. A coil spring 95 is built into the air bag 93, which pulls the air bag 93 in a direction to contract the air bag 93 (the direction in which the object to be pressed 21 moves backward). When air is introduced into the air bag 93, the air bag 93 expands against the coil spring 95, and the pressure point of the object to be pressed 21 moves forward. When air is released from the air bag 93, the air bag 93 contracts due to the pulling force of the coil spring, and the pressure point of the object to be pressed 21 moves backward. This reciprocation may occur in the pattern illustrated in FIG.

[0062] According to this embodiment, as in the fifth embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing and high-acceleration pressing by continuing to press the pressing point with a constant pressing force so that the inner cylinder body 63 always remains within a certain position range of the object sensor 65, even if the pressing point of the pressed body 21 moves back and forth.

[0063] 12 shows a pressure method training device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same elements as those described in the fourth embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0064] The pressure training device 100 has a reciprocating mechanism 101 that can move the object to be pressed 21 back and forth. That is, the reciprocating mechanism 101 has an air supply / exhaust means 102 equipped with an air pump, an exhaust valve, etc., the object to be pressed 21 consisting of an inflatable / contractable rubber air bag, and an air pipe 103 that connects the air supply / exhaust means 102 and the object to be pressed 21. When air is introduced into the object to be pressed 21, the object to be pressed 21 expands, and the pressure point of the object to be pressed 21 moves forward. When air is released from the object to be pressed 21, the object to be pressed 21 contracts, and the pressure point of the object to be pressed 21 moves backward.

[0065] According to this embodiment, as in the sixth embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing and high-acceleration pressing by continuing to press the pressing point with a constant pressing force so that the inner cylinder body 63 always remains within a certain position range of the object sensor 65, even if the pressing point of the pressed body 21 moves back and forth.

[0066] 13 shows a pressure method training device according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The pressure method training device 110 is attached to, for example, a vertical wall W and includes a cylindrical housing 111 with one end closed and the other end open, three pulleys (rollers) 112 to 114 rotatably supported on the side plates of the housing 111, an endless belt 115 as a pressure target stretched over the three pulleys 112 to 114, and a spool (roller) 116 that is provided coaxially with the pulley 112 and rotates together with the pulley 112.

[0067] One end of string 117 is wound around spool 116. A weight 118 of a fixed weight is attached to the other end of string 117. An opening 119 through which string 117 passes is provided in the bottom plate of housing 111. A bracket 120 protruding downward is provided in opening 119. A pair of auxiliary pulleys 121 are attached to bracket 120 at positions that sandwich string 117 that has passed through opening 119. The weight of weight 118 causes endless belt 115 to rotate counterclockwise on the plane of FIG. 13 .

[0068] A flexible sheet 122 is attached to the opening at the other end of the housing 111. A pressure plate 125 is attached to the center of the outer surface of the sheet 122 via a pressure sensor 123 and an acceleration sensor 124. The user presses the pressure plate 125 to the left in the figure, that is, in a direction intersecting (for example, perpendicular to) the direction of movement of the endless belt 115. The pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 123 and the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 124 are displayed on a display 126 provided on the top panel of the housing 111.

[0069] When the user presses the pressure plate 125 to the left in the figure and the sheet 122 bends inward, the inner surface of the sheet 122 comes into contact with the portion of the endless belt 115 between the two pulleys 113 and 114. If the pressing force on the pressure plate 125 (i.e., the contact force between the sheet 122 and the endless belt 115) is a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf or more, the frictional force between the sheet 122 and the endless belt 115 caused by this contact force stops the counterclockwise rotation of the endless belt 115, thereby preventing the weight 118 from falling. If the pressing force on the pressure plate 125 is less than the predetermined value, the rotation of the endless belt 115 does not stop and the weight 118 falls.

[0070] According to this embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing by continuing to press the pressing plate 125 with the lowest force at which the weight 118 does not fall (i.e., a predetermined pressing force, for example, 500 gf). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the pair of auxiliary pulleys 121 allows the weight 118 to function and pressure training to be performed even when the pressing method training device 110 is installed diagonally or horizontally, allowing for pressing training. Furthermore, the user can also practice high-acceleration pressing by quickly increasing the pressing force to a predetermined value of 500 gf at once and stopping the endless belt 115 at the start of pressing, for example, by utilizing the gap between the sheet 122 and the endless belt 115 or the flexure of the endless belt 115.

[0071] 14 shows a pressure method training device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the same elements as those described in the fifth and eighth embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0072] The pressure method training device 130 has a pantograph jack 83 that can move the pressure point back and forth. The pressure method training device 130 has a support device 81 that supports a housing 111. The support device 81 has a housing 82 attached to a vertical wall W, and a pantograph jack 83 provided inside the housing 82. The housing 82 is cylindrical with one end closed and the other end open, and a part of the housing 111 can be inserted inside it.

[0073] The pantograph jack 83 includes a pair of left arms 84 each having one end pivotally mounted on an end plate of the housing 82, a pair of right arms 87 each having one end connected to the other end of the left arm 84 via slide nuts 85, 86, a receiving base 88 having the other end of the right arm 87 pivotally mounted on an end plate of the housing 111, and a threaded bolt 89 threadedly engaging with the slide nuts 85, 86. The pantograph jack 83 is configured so that the forward and reverse rotational movement of the threaded bolt 89 expands and contracts the spacing between the female screw members 85, 86, thereby allowing the receiving base 88 (pressure point) to move forward and backward.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing and high-acceleration pressing by continuing to press the pressure plate 125 with the minimum force (e.g., 500 gf) while the pressure point moves forward and backward so that the weight 118 does not fall.

[0075] 15 shows a pressure method training device according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The pressure method training device 140 is attached to a vertical wall or the like and has a cylindrical housing 141 with one end closed and the other end open. A bracket 142 that is trapezoidal in side view is attached to the opening of the housing 141. Four pulleys (rollers) 143 to 146 are rotatably supported on the inner surface of the bracket 142 at each of the four corners of the trapezoid. An endless belt 147 serving as a pressure target is stretched across the four pulleys 143 to 146. A weight 148 is attached to the portion of the endless belt 147 between the two pulleys 143 and 146. The weight of this weight 148 constantly applies a force to the endless belt 147 in a counterclockwise rotation direction.

[0076] A flexible sheet 149 is attached to cover the portion of the endless belt protruding outward from the opening of the housing 141. A pressure plate 152 is attached to a sheet portion 149A between two pulleys 143 and 144 via a pressure sensor 150 and an acceleration sensor 151. A pressure plate 155 is attached to a sheet portion 149B between two pulleys 144 and 145 via a pressure sensor 153 and an acceleration sensor 154. A pressure plate 158 is attached to a sheet portion 149C between two pulleys 145 and 146 via a pressure sensor 156 and an acceleration sensor 157. The orientations of these multiple pressure plates 152, 155, and 158 are different. The user pushes any of the pressure plates 152, 155, and 158 in the lower left, left, or upper left direction in the figure, that is, in a direction intersecting (e.g., perpendicular to) the moving direction of the endless belt 147. The pressure values ​​detected by the pressure sensors 150 , 153 , and 156 and the acceleration values ​​detected by the acceleration sensors 151 , 154 , and 157 are displayed on a display 159 provided on the top panel of the housing 141 .

[0077] For example, when the user presses the pressure plate 152 and the sheet portion 149A bends inward, the inner surface of the sheet portion 149A comes into contact with the endless belt portion between the two pulleys 143 and 144. If the pressure from the user is a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf or more, the frictional force caused by this contact can stop the counterclockwise rotation of the endless belt 147. If the pressure from the user is less than the predetermined value, the rotation of the endless belt 147 does not stop. Similarly, when the user presses the pressure plate 155 or 155, if the pressure is a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf or more, the rotation of the endless belt 147 can be stopped.

[0078] According to this embodiment, the user can practice constant-force continuous pressing by continuously pressing one of the pressure plates 152, 155, and 158 with a constant pressing force (the minimum force at which the weight 148 does not fall, for example, 500 gf) while moving the position of the finger back and forth. Furthermore, the user can practice pressing the endless belt 147 from three different directions by selectively pressing one of the pressure plates 152, 155, and 158. Although not shown, this embodiment may be provided with a reciprocating mechanism (for example, a mechanism that reciprocates the housing 141 left and right in the figure) similar to the other embodiments already described, so that the pressure plates 152, 155, and 158 reciprocate in a pattern such as that shown in FIG. 5.

[0079] FIG. 16 shows a pressure method training device according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. The pressure method training device 160 is attached to a vertical wall W or the like and has a cylindrical housing 161 with one end closed and the other end open. A drive unit 162 is attached to an end plate of the housing 161. Four pulleys (rollers) 163 to 166 are rotatably supported in the approximate center of the side plate of the housing 161. An endless belt 167 is stretched around the four pulleys 163 to 166 via the drive unit 162. Four pulleys 168 to 171 are rotatably supported on the outer sides of the four pulleys 163 to 166. An endless belt 172 is stretched around the four pulleys 168 to 171 via the drive unit 162. Four pulleys 173 to 176 are rotatably supported on the outer sides of the four pulleys 168 to 171. An endless belt 177 is stretched over the four pulleys 173 to 176 via a drive device 162. When the endless belts 167, 172, and 177 are in their natural state (i.e., when not being pressed by the user), there are small gaps between the endless belts 167, 172, and 177 (or they are in light contact with each other so that there is essentially no friction between them). The endless belts 167, 172, and 177 are arranged so that they can be stacked on top of each other when pressed by the user. A set of these multiple endless belts 167, 172, and 177 functions as a pressed body.

[0080] The driving device 162 is composed of a motor or the like that generates a predetermined driving force (a driving mechanism using a weight, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, may also be used), and rotates the endless belts 167, 172, and 177 clockwise or counterclockwise in the figures. A flexible sheet 178 is attached to the other end of the housing 161 so as to close the opening. A pressure plate 181 is attached to the center of the sheet 178 via a pressure sensor 179 and an acceleration sensor 180. The user pushes the pressure plate 181 to the left in the figure, that is, in a direction that intersects (e.g., is perpendicular to) the direction of movement of the endless belts 167, 172, and 177. The pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 179 and the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 180 are displayed on a display 182 provided on the top plate of the housing 161.

[0081] When the user presses the pressure plate 181 and the sheet 178 bends inward, the inner surface of the sheet 178 comes into contact with the endless belt 177 (the outermost endless belt 177) between the two pulleys 173 and 174. If the pressure from the user is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf, the frictional force caused by that contact can stop the rotational movement of the endless belt 177. If the user continues to press, the outermost endless belt 177 bends and comes into contact with the next endless belt 172. If the pressure from that contact is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf, the frictional force caused by that contact can stop the rotational movement of the endless belt 172. If the user continues to press further, the second endless belt 172 bends and comes into contact with the third endless belt 167. If the pressure of the contact is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf, the frictional force caused by the contact can stop the rotation of endless belt 167. Whether each of endless belts 167, 172, and 177 is rotating or stopped is shown on indicator 182. This embodiment has three endless belts, but any number of endless belts may be used as long as there is more than one.

[0082] According to this embodiment, while the endless belts 167, 172, and 177 are being rotated by the drive device 162, the user presses the pressure plate 181 to stop only the outermost endless belt 167 (or only the outermost and middle endless belts 167 and 172), practicing to keep at least the innermost endless belt 167 stationary. While checking the display 182 to see which of the endless belts 167, 172, and 177 is moving or stationary, the user strives to maintain their pressure as close to the optimal value of 500 gf as possible. This allows the user to train their skill in constant, continuous pressure. Furthermore, when starting to press, the user can also train their skill in high-acceleration pressure by pressing quickly and concentrating the pressure on only the outermost endless belt 167, thereby stopping only the outermost endless belt 167 and leaving the other endless belts 172 and 177 moving.

[0083] FIG. 17 shows a pressure training device according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The pressure training device 190 is attached to a vertical wall W or the like and has a cylindrical housing 191 with one end closed and the other open. Inside the housing 191 are two upper and lower rollers 192 and 193 that can swing around their axes, a base plate 194, and two parallel-arranged pressed plates 195 and 196. The rollers 192 and 193 are attached to a drive unit 197 attached to the end plates of the housing 191, and are driven by the drive unit 197 to swing clockwise and counterclockwise around their respective central rotation axes. The rollers 192 and 193 are each provided with an eccentric shaft 198 or 199 that is eccentric from the central rotation axis. The eccentric shafts 198 and 199 pivotally support supports 200 and 201, which support the base plate 194.

[0084] A plurality of pressure-receiving plates 195, 196 are supported via springs on the top and bottom plates of the housing 191, respectively. There is a small gap between the base plate 194 and the plurality of pressure-receiving plates 195, 196 (or they are in light contact with each other to the extent that there is substantially no friction between them). The base plate 194 and the plurality of pressure-receiving plates 195, 196 are arranged so that they can be stacked on top of each other when pressed by the user, and they function as pressure-receiving bodies.

[0085] The pressure receiving plates 195, 196 may be hard plates with little flexibility, or soft plates with flexibility. Movement sensors 202, 203 are attached to the pressure receiving plates 195, 196, respectively, to indicate whether the pressure receiving plates 195, 196 are moving or stationary. The results detected by the movement sensors 202, 203 are displayed on a display 204 provided on the top plate of the housing 191. There is a small gap between the base plate 194 and the pressure receiving plate 195, and between the pressure receiving plate 195 and the pressure receiving plate 196. A flexible sheet 205 is attached to the other end of the housing 191 so as to close the opening. A pressing plate 208 is attached to the center of the sheet 205 via a pressure sensor 206 and an acceleration sensor 207. The user presses the pressing plate 208 to the left in the drawing, that is, in a direction intersecting (for example, perpendicular to) the vertical movement direction of the pressed plates 195, 196, which will be described later. The pressure value detected by the pressure sensor 206 and the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 207 are displayed on the display 204, which has been described above.

[0086] When rollers 192 and 193 swing clockwise and counterclockwise around the central rotation axis, base plate 194 moves back and forth in the vertical and horizontal directions (front and back for the user) in the figure. At that time, the user presses pressure plate 208, thereby bending sheet 205 inward and pressing two pressed plates 195 and 196 against base plate 194. When pressed against base plate 194, two pressed plates 195 and 196 attempt to move back and forth in the vertical directions in the figure together with base plate 194. However, if the pressing force applied from sheet 205 to outer pressed plate 196 is a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf or more, the frictional force caused by this contact prevents outer pressed plate 196 from moving in the vertical direction and stops it. Similarly, if the pressure applied from the outer pressure plate 196 to the inner pressure plate 195 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, for example, 500 gf, the frictional force caused by this contact will prevent the inner pressure plate 196 from moving in the vertical direction and will stop it.

[0087] While viewing the results detected by the movement sensors 202 and 203 displayed on the display 204, the user can practice stopping the up and down movement of the pressure plate 196 closer to the sheet 205, and at the same time allowing the pressure plate 195 farthest from the sheet 205 to move up and down together with the base plate 194. This allows the user to practice particularly high acceleration pressing. At the same time, the user can also train for constant, continuous pressing by watching the pressing force they are exerting displayed on the display 204 and practicing until it is close to the appropriate value of 500 gf.

[0088] 18 and 19 show a pressing device according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. Pressing device 210 automatically performs the slow-expansion pressing method and includes a support mechanism 220, a conversion mechanism 230, and a presser 250. Support mechanism 220 includes a base 221, a rotating holder 222 provided on the upper surface of base 221, and a support column 223 held by rotating holder 222 so as to be rotatable around its axis. Base 221 can be placed on a table, floor, or the like (not shown).

[0089] The conversion mechanism 230 includes a plurality of arms, for example, a first arm 231, a second arm 232, a third arm 233, and a fourth arm 234, interconnected via joints that fold in the vertical direction. The first arm 231 is pivotally supported on the side surface of the upper part of the support column 223. More specifically, the first arm 231 is pivotally supported on the support column 223 at a position, for example, approximately one-third of the length from the rear end of the first arm 231. A first end pulley 235 is rotatably attached to the rear end of the first arm 231. A speed-up pulley 236 that rotates together with the first end pulley 235 is pivotally supported on the shaft to which the first end pulley 235 is attached. The diameter of the speed-up pulley 236 is larger than the diameter of the first end pulley 235, for example, approximately twice as large.

[0090] The rear end of the second arm 232 is pivotally supported on the tip of the first arm 231 so that its orientation can be changed in the vertical direction. A first intermediate pulley 237 is rotatably mounted on the shaft. An endless belt 238 is stretched between the speed-up pulley 236 and the first intermediate pulley 237. A string 239 with one end hanging down is wound around the first end pulley 235, and a weight 240 with a mass greater than 500 g, for example, 1 kg, is attached to one end of the string. The other end of the string 239 is fixed to the circumferential surface of the first end pulley 235. A third arm 233 is pivotally supported on the tip of the second arm 232 so that its orientation can be changed in the vertical direction. A fourth arm 234 is rotatably held on the tip of the third arm 233 via a rotary joint 241 around its axis. A second intermediate pulley 242 is rotatably mounted on the shaft that pivotally supports the tip of the second arm 232. An endless belt 243 is stretched between the second intermediate pulley 242 and the first intermediate pulley 237. A second end pulley 244 is journaled slightly below the middle portion of the fourth arm 234. An endless belt 245 is stretched between the second end pulley 244 and the second intermediate pulley 242.

[0091] A hollow cylindrical housing 251 of the pressing device 250 is pivotally supported at the tip of the fourth arm 234 so that its orientation can be changed in the vertical direction. This allows the attitude and position of the pressing device 250 to be changed in the vertical and front-to-back directions. Furthermore, a rotary joint 241 allows the attitude of the pressing device 250 to be changed in the left-to-right (horizontal) direction. A cylindrical pressing element 252 is held in the housing 251 so that it can move left-to-right along its central axis with its tip protruding. The area of ​​the cross section of the pressing element 252 perpendicular to its central axis is substantially 1 square centimeter. Here, "substantially" 1 square centimeter does not only mean exactly 1 square centimeter, but also includes an area close to 1 square centimeter that can produce an effect that is quantitatively and qualitatively equivalent to a pressure of exactly 1 square centimeter in terms of the Kansyo method treatment effect. This allows the pressing element 252 to press an area of ​​substantially 1 square centimeter of the muscle (not shown) when the pressing device 210 is applied to the muscle.

[0092] 19, a recess 253 is formed in the pressing element 252 from the middle position to the rear end. A hole 254 is formed in the middle position of the top surface of the cylindrical body 251, and a part of the second end pulley 244, for example, approximately half of it, passes through the hole 254 and enters the inside of the housing 251. One end of a belt 255 is fixed to the second end pulley 244, and the other end is connected to the rear end of the pressing element 252. As a result, the rotational motion of the second end pulley 244 is converted into forward motion of the pressing element 252.

[0093] As the weight 240 falls, the first end pulley 235 rotates clockwise in the figure. Together with the first end pulley 235, the speed-up pulley 236 also rotates clockwise. The rotation speed is approximately twice that of the first end pulley 235. As the speed-up pulley 236 rotates, the first intermediate pulley 237 also rotates clockwise. As the first intermediate pulley 237 rotates, the second intermediate pulley 242 also rotates clockwise. As the second intermediate pulley 242 rotates, the second end pulley 244 also rotates clockwise. This rotation causes the pressing member 252 to move forward (to the left in the figure). The mass of the pressure element 252 that moves when the weight 240 falls is a value such that when an appropriate pressure force of the slow-dip method, for example, a forward force substantially equivalent to 500 gf, is applied to the pressure element 252, and if other external forces (typically, for example, reaction force from the muscles to the pressure element 252, i.e., resistance force) that prevent the pressure element 252 from moving forward are zero, the pressure element 252 moves forward at a gravitational acceleration of 1 G or more, preferably at an acceleration greater than 1 G, for example, 2 G or more, such as 250 g or less, 100 g or less, or 50 g or less. Furthermore, the masses of the parts that move when the weight 240 falls, such as the above-mentioned multiple pulleys and belts, are also sufficiently small so as not to substantially affect the forward movement of the pressure element 252 at an acceleration of 1 G or more. Incidentally, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, which will be described later, the mass of the presser and the movable parts of the mechanism that moves it is selected so that when a pressing force of substantially 500 gf is applied to the presser, the presser can move forward with an acceleration of 1 G or more unless there is resistance from the muscles.

[0094] The pressing force and forward speed of the presser 252 are determined by selecting the mass of the weight 240 and the diameters of the pulleys 235 and 236. For example, if the diameter of the speed-up pulley 236 is approximately twice that of the first end pulley 235, the pressing force of the presser 252 is approximately half the weight of the weight 240, and the forward speed of the presser 252 is approximately twice the falling speed of the weight 240. If the weight of the weight 240 is, for example, 1 kg, when the weight 240 falls naturally, the pressing force of the presser 252 is 500 gf, and the forward speed of the presser 252 is twice the natural falling speed of the weight 240, that is, the natural falling speed at twice the gravitational acceleration of 1 G (2 G).

[0095] The pressure, forward speed, and acceleration of the pressure element 252 correspond to the optimal pressure conditions for Kansyo-ho. The pressure device 210 is configured so that pressure under these optimal pressure conditions can be maintained over an appropriate distance range in the pressure direction. The appropriate distance range is a distance range that ensures the movement of the pressure element 252 in the pressure direction in response to muscle expansion and contraction when pressing on a muscle during Kansyo-ho treatment, the distance required to press the muscle by pushing aside the patient's subcutaneous fat, or the forward distance required for the pressure element 210 to penetrate deeper into the muscle by pushing through the softened portion near the muscle's surface when it becomes soft. Therefore, the greater the patient's muscle mass and subcutaneous fat thickness, the greater the required distance range. However, the maximum value of this distance range (i.e., the maximum stroke of the forward movement of the pressure element 252) is, for example, 30 mm, more preferably 50 mm, even more preferably 70 mm, and even more preferably 100 mm.

[0096] 20 shows a pressing device according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. Pressing device 260 is designed to be held by a person's hand to press the muscles of a patient or the person's own muscles (not shown), and includes housing 270, a pressing element 280, a driving mechanism 290, and a conversion mechanism 300. Housing 270 includes a tip portion 271 formed in the shape of a hollow cylinder, a hollow middle portion 272 formed in a pear shape, and a rear end portion 273 formed in the shape of a hollow cylinder with one end closed.

[0097] The pressure element 280 for pressing a predetermined area of ​​the muscle is provided inside the tip 271 of the housing 270 with its tip protruding, and is movable in the front-to-back direction (left-to-right direction in the figure) along its central axis.

[0098] The drive mechanism 290 includes an electric motor 291 , a drive control circuit 292 , and a battery 293 , which are provided inside the rear end 273 of the housing 270 .

[0099] The conversion mechanism 300 is provided inside the intermediate portion 272 of the housing 270 and includes a reverse junction 301 through which the rotating shaft 291A of the electric motor 291 passes, a first fixed junction 302 fixed to the rotating shaft 291A of the electric motor 291, a second fixed junction 303 fixed to the rotating shaft 291A of the electric motor 291, and a forward junction 304 that can move forward and backward in the front-to-rear direction (left-to-right direction in the figure) along the axis of the rotating shaft 291A. A push-out pin 305 that can press the pusher 280 is attached to the tip of the forward junction 304. The tip of the rotating shaft 291A of the electric motor 291 reaches a position that is more left-side in the figure than the center position of the intermediate portion 272 of the housing 270, and is inserted into an opening 306 formed on the rear end side of the forward junction 304.

[0100] The rear end of a first arm 307 is pivotally supported at the top of the first fixed junction 302 in the figure. A weight 308 is attached to the tip of the first arm 307. The center line of the width of the first arm 307 passes through the center of the weight 308. The tip of a second arm 309 is pivotally supported at an intermediate position of the first arm 307. The rear end of the second arm 309 is pivotally supported at the upper part of the reversal junction 301 in the figure. The rear end of a third arm 310 is pivotally supported at the lower part of the first fixed junction 302 in the figure (i.e., in an axisymmetrical positional relationship with the first arm 307). A weight 311 having the same shape and mass as the weight 308 is attached to the tip of the third arm 310. The center line of the width of the third arm 310 passes through the center of the weight 311. The tip of a fourth arm 312 is pivotally supported at an intermediate position of the third arm 310. The rear end of the fourth arm is pivotally supported at the bottom of the reversal junction 301. The angle θ of the first arm 307 and the third arm 307 forming a pair of pendulums arranged axially symmetrically in this manner with respect to the rotation axis 291A is referred to as the pendulum opening angle θ.

[0101] A partially arcuate notch 313 is formed slightly below the middle of the reverse junction 301 in the drawing. A protrusion (not shown) provided at the tip of the fifth arm 314 engages with this notch 313. The fifth arm 314 is pivotally supported on the second fixed junction 303 at a position relatively short distance from the tip of the fifth arm 314, for example, at a position approximately one-fifth of the overall length of the fifth arm 314. The rear end of the fifth arm 314 is pivotally supported on the tip of the sixth arm 315. The rear end of the sixth arm 315 is pivotally supported slightly to the right of the tip of the forward junction 304 in the drawing. Similar structures are provided for the seventh arm 316 and the eighth arm 317, positioned axially symmetrically to the above mechanisms of the fifth arm 314 and the sixth arm 315. The pantograph-type mechanism including these fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth arms 314, 315, 316 and 317 converts the backward movement of the backward junction 301 caused by an increase in the pendulum opening angle θ into forward movement of the forward junction 304, which has a movement distance several times larger (for example, about five times larger).

[0102] When the electric motor 291 rotates, the conversion mechanism 300 rotates around the rotation axis 291A of the electric motor 291, and the centrifugal force acting on the weights 308 and 311 causes the first arm 307 and the third arm 310 to open in a direction in which the pendulum opening angle θ increases as the rotation speed increases, causing the backward junction 301 to move backward. The fifth arm 314, the sixth arm 315, the seventh arm 316, and the eighth arm 317 convert this backward movement into forward movement of the forward junction 304. Using the principle of leverage, each arm 314 to 317 amplifies the backward movement stroke of the backward junction 301 into a longer stroke (e.g., approximately five times longer) than the forward movement stroke of the forward junction 304. The pusher pin 305 at the tip of the forward junction 304 pushes the central axis of the pusher 280 forward, causing the pusher 280 to move forward without rotating and push against a muscle (not shown).

[0103] The pressing force f of the pressing element 280 is controlled to an appropriate pressing force for the gradual release method, for example, substantially 500 gf, for example, in the range of 400 gf to 700 gf close to 500 g. To achieve this, for example, the electric motor 291 can be rotated at a constant speed at an angular velocity ω such that f = 500 gf when the pendulum opening θ is, for example, 30 degrees. At the same time, the dimensions and component layout of the link mechanism including the pantograph mechanism and swing arm mechanism are designed so that the pendulum opening θ can be changed within a range of, for example, 23.5 degrees to 45 degrees. Then, the pressing force f is controlled within a range of, for example, 400 gf to 650 gf.

[0104] Furthermore, the dimensions of the link mechanism are set so that the maximum stroke of the forward movement of the pressure element 280 is a length corresponding to the maximum fluctuation distance of the pressure position in the gentle contraction method, for example, approximately 30 mm, 50 mm, 70 mm, or 100 mm. Furthermore, the mass and rotational speed of the weights 308, 311 are set so that the pressure element 280 can move forward at an acceleration of 1 G or more due to gravity, for example, 2 G, when the reaction force, i.e., resistance force, applied to the pressure element 280 from the muscle becomes zero. In this case, the smaller the mass of the weights 308, 311 is set and the higher the speed, the greater the acceleration of the forward movement of the pressure element 280 can be set when the centrifugal force acting on the weights 308, 311 is the same.

[0105] 21 shows a pressing device according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention. In the fourteenth embodiment, among the components of a pressing device 350, the biasing means that biases the string 239 attached to the first end pulley 235 downward is different from that of the twelfth embodiment, but the configuration of other parts may be substantially similar to that of the twelfth embodiment. The following description will focus on the biasing means.

[0106] Pressing device 350 includes case body 351 fixed to base 221, rotating shaft 352 rotatably attached to case body 351, and power spring 353 as an elastic component that biases rotating shaft 352 in a direction to rotate it clockwise. The tip of string 239 is attached to rotating shaft 352 so that string 239 can be wound up. A starting end at the center of power spring 353 is fixed to rotating shaft 352, and a terminal end 354 of power spring 353 is fixed to case body 351. In pressing device 350, power spring 353 is set in a sufficiently wound state by rotating rotating shaft 352 counterclockwise in the figure in advance, and the restoring force of power spring 353, which tries to unwind and loosen, causes power spring 353 to rotate in a direction to wind up string 239, so that string 239 is constantly pulled downward. By appropriately selecting the overall length and spring characteristics of the power spring 353 and the diameters of the pulleys 235 and 236, the pressing force of the pressing element 252 can be controlled to substantially 500 g, the forward acceleration when there is no resistance can be controlled to a gravity readability of 1 G or more, and a maximum forward / backward stroke of several tens of mm to approximately 100 mm can be ensured.

[0107] As a modification of this embodiment, the elastic component may be a coil spring or the like instead of a power spring. Also, as in the embodiment shown in Fig. 20, an elastic component such as a power spring, a conversion mechanism such as a pulley, and a pressing element may be housed in a single housing.

[0108] In the above-described embodiment, since the purpose is to train or practice the pressure method for the Kansetsu method, the appropriate pressure force is substantially 500 gf, and the forward acceleration when no resistance is 1 G or more, but this is only one example of an appropriate pressure condition. In a device for training the pressure method in other application fields such as sports, the appropriate pressure condition can be different from the above as long as it does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 10, 30, 50, 60, 80, 90, 100, 110, 130, 140: Pressure training device 11: Reciprocating mechanism 12, 31: Pedestal 13, 32: Post 14: Holding member 15, 82, 111, 141: Housing 16: Motor 17: Pinion gear 18: Rack 19, 39, 123: Pressing force sensor 20, 40, 72: Holder 21: Pressed body 22, 42, 124: Acceleration sensors 23, 64, 126: Display unit 33: Axis 34: Spool 35: Arm 36: Support part 37, 70, 117: String 38, 71: Weight 41: Rubber ball 61: Outer cylinder 62: Bearing 63: Inner cylinder 65: Object sensor 66: Stopper 67: Contact plate 68, 69: Laura 81: Support device 83: Pantograph jack 84: Left arm 85, 86: Female threaded parts 87: Right arm 88: Cradle 89: Threaded rod 91, 101: Reciprocating mechanism 92, 102: Intake and exhaust means 93: Air bag 94, 103: Air pipe 95: Coil spring 112, 113, 114, 143, 144, 145, 146: Pulleys 115: Endless belt 116: Spool 118, 148: Weight 119:Aperture 120, 142: Bracket 121: Auxiliary pulley 122: Sheet 125: Pressure plate 147: Endless belt 149: Sheet 149A, 149B, 149C: Seat part 150: Pressure sensor 151: Acceleration sensor 152: Pressure plate 153: Pressure sensor 154: Acceleration sensor 155: Pressure plate 156: Pressure sensor 157: Acceleration sensor 158: Pressure plate 159: Display 210, 260, 350: Pressing device 230, 300: Conversion mechanism 240: Weight 252, 280: Depressor 353: Mainspring (elastic part)

Claims

1. A training device for a user to learn a pressing method performed by a person, a pressing body that is pressed in a pressing direction by the user; a reciprocating mechanism that reciprocates the pressed body along the pressing direction using a driving force separate from the pressing force from the user; A training device comprising:

2. 10. The training device of claim 1, a measuring device for measuring a pressing force applied by the user to the pressed body; a pressure indicator that displays the pressure measured by the measuring device; The training device further comprises:

3. 10. The training device of claim 1, the reciprocating mechanism reciprocates the pressed body in a reciprocating movement pattern in which a first reciprocating movement and a second reciprocating movement that reciprocates faster than the first reciprocating movement are superimposed on each other; training equipment.

4. 10. The training device of claim 1, The pressed body is The hardness or surface texture can be changed in multiple ways. training equipment.

5. 5. The training device according to claim 1, an acceleration sensor that measures the acceleration of a pressure spot on the pressure-receiving body pressed by the user in the pressing direction; an acceleration indicator that displays the acceleration; The training device further comprises:

6. A training device for a user to learn a pressing method performed by a person, a pressing body that is pressed in a pressing direction by the user; a constant force application mechanism that applies a force of a constant magnitude in a direction opposite to the pressing force from the user to the pressed body, and has the freedom of movement such that the pressed body moves back and forth along the pressing direction due to the pressing force from the user; A training device comprising:

7. 7. The training device of claim 6, a measuring device for measuring a pressing force applied by the user to the pressed body; a pressure indicator that displays the pressure measured by the measuring device; The training device further comprises:

8. 7. The training device according to claim 6, The training device further includes a reciprocating mechanism that reciprocates the pressure object along the pressing direction using a driving force separate from the pressing force from the user.

9. 9. The training device of claim 8, the reciprocating mechanism reciprocates the pressed body in a reciprocating movement pattern in which a first reciprocating movement and a second reciprocating movement that reciprocates faster than the first reciprocating movement are superimposed on each other; training equipment.

10. 7. The training device of claim 6, The pressed body is The hardness or surface texture can be changed in multiple ways. training equipment.

11. 11. The training device according to claim 6, an acceleration sensor that measures the acceleration of a pressure spot on the pressure-receiving body pressed by the user in the pressing direction; an acceleration indicator that displays the acceleration; The training device further comprises:

12. A training device for a user to learn a pressing method performed by a person, a pressing body that is pressed in a pressing direction by the user; a drive mechanism that moves the pressed body in a direction intersecting the pressing direction using a drive force different from the pressing force from the user; Equipped with The training device is configured so that, when the forward pushing force from the user reaches a predetermined magnitude, the movement of the pressure target body stops against the driving force.

13. 13. The training device of claim 12, a measuring device for measuring a pressing force applied by the user to the pressed body; a pressure indicator that displays the pressure measured by the measuring device; The training device further comprises:

14. 13. The training device of claim 12, The training device further includes a reciprocating mechanism that reciprocates the pressure object along the pressing direction using a driving force separate from the pressing force from the user.

15. 13. The training device of claim 12, The pressed body is a flexible or non-flexible object in the form of a sheet, plate, or belt. training equipment.

16. 13. The training device of claim 12, The pressurized body is a set of multiple objects arranged so that they are stacked when pressed by the user, and the training device is configured so that, depending on the conditions of the pressing force from the user, the movement of all of the multiple objects stops, the movement of only some of the objects stops, or the movement of all of the objects does not stop.

17. 17. The training device of any one of claims 12 to 16, an acceleration sensor that measures the acceleration of a pressure spot on the pressure-receiving body pressed by the user in the pressing direction; an acceleration indicator that displays the acceleration; The training device further comprises:

18. A depressor that can be advanced and retracted to press a predetermined area of ​​the muscle is provided, While the depressor is pressing the muscle, a pressing force of a predetermined intensity in a forward direction is continuously applied to the depressor; When the reaction force from the muscle to the presser disappears while the presser is pressing the muscle, the presser is advanced at a pressing acceleration of 1 G or more. A pressing device configured as described above.

19. 19. The pressing device according to claim 18, A weight that is suspended and falls at a gravitational acceleration of 1G during free fall, a conversion mechanism for converting the falling motion of the weight into a forward motion of the pressing element, The conversion mechanism is The gravity acting on the weight is converted into the pressing force of the predetermined strength, and the gravitational acceleration 1G accompanying the free fall motion of the weight is converted into the pressing force acceleration. Pressing device.

20. 19. The pressing device according to claim 18, With a weight, a rotation mechanism that rotates the weight around a rotation axis; a conversion mechanism that converts centrifugal motion of the weight caused by centrifugal force acting on the rotating weight into forward motion of the pressing element, The conversion mechanism is The centrifugal force acting on the weight is converted into the pressing force of the predetermined strength, and the centrifugal movement acceleration of the weight due to the centrifugal force is converted into the pressing acceleration. Pressing device.

21. 19. The pressing device according to claim 18, an elastic part that generates a restoring force by elastic deformation; a conversion mechanism for converting the restoring motion of the elastic part into a forward motion of the pressing element; The conversion mechanism is The restoring force from the elastic part is converted into the pressing force of the predetermined strength, and the acceleration of the restoring movement due to the restoring force from the elastic part is converted into the pressing acceleration. Pressing device.

22. 22. The pressing device according to any one of claims 18 to 21, A pressing device in which the mass of the pressing element is smaller than the mass that moves at a gravitational acceleration of 1 G when subjected to a force of the predetermined strength.

23. 23. The pressing device according to claim 22, A pressing device in which the mass of the pressing element is less than 500 g.

24. 22. The pressing device according to any one of claims 18 to 21, A pressing device, wherein the predetermined area is substantially 1 square centimeter, and the pressing force of the predetermined strength is within a range of 400 gf to 750 gf.

25. 25. The pressing device according to claim 24, A pressing device in which the pressing force of the predetermined strength is substantially 500 gf.

26. 22. The pressing device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, The pressing device has a forward movement distance of 5 to 6 centimeters.

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