Massage machine

Abstract

To eliminate the deviation of a sitting position in the longitudinal direction of a person to be treated.SOLUTION: The massage machine includes a seat portion, a backrest portion, a roller, a drive unit, a control unit, and a sensor. The seat portion supports the buttocks and thighs of the treated person. The backrest portion is rotatably supported by a rear end portion of the seat portion and supports a torso portion of the treatment subject person. The roller extends in the left-right direction and is disposed in the seat portion so as to be rotatable about the left-right direction. The roller can press at least one of the buttocks and the thighs of the person to be treated. The drive unit rotates the roller. The control unit controls the drive unit. The sensor detects the position of the buttocks of the person to be treated in the front-back direction. The control unit rotates the roller in a direction in which the buttocks of the treatment subject approach the lower part of the backrest part when determining that the buttocks of the treatment subject are separated from the lower part of the backrest part based on the detection result of the sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a massage machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, massage machines that massage a user seated on a seat have been known. For example, the massage machine disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a seat, a reclining backrest provided at the rear of the seat, and a massage mechanism that massages the buttocks and thighs of the user seated on the seat. The massage mechanism is configured to rise relative to the seat in conjunction with the reclining of the backrest backward. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6274692 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, if the user sits improperly on the seat or if the user's seating position shifts forward during treatment, the massage machine may not be able to fully provide the massage effect to the user. For example, the massage effect on the lower back is most effective when the user is seated in the correct seating position. However, as in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to eliminate the user's seating position shifting forward simply by raising and lowering the massage mechanisms for the buttocks and thighs.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, an object of the present invention is to eliminate displacement of the seating position of a person to be treated in the front-to-rear direction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, a massage machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a seat, a backrest, rollers, a drive unit, a control unit, and a sensor. The seat supports the buttocks and thighs of the user. The backrest is rotatably supported at the rear end of the seat and supports the torso of the user. The rollers extend in the left-right direction and are arranged on the seat so as to be rotatable around the left-right direction. The rollers are capable of pressing at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user. The drive unit rotates the rollers. The control unit controls the drive unit. The sensor detects the position of the buttocks of the user in the front-to-back direction. When the control unit determines, based on the detection result of the sensor, that the buttocks of the user are away from the lower part of the backrest, it rotates the rollers in a direction that brings the buttocks of the user closer to the lower part of the backrest.

[0007] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following embodiments. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the massage machine of the present invention, it is possible to eliminate displacement of the seating position of the person to be treated in the front-to-rear direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a chair-type massage machine; [Figure 2] Plan view of a chair massage machine viewed from above [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing another example of sensor placement. [Figure 4] Block diagram showing the control system that controls the operation of the chair-type massage machine [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a transfer unit; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a chair-type massage machine 100. FIG. 2 is a plan view of the chair-type massage machine 100 seen from above. Note that in FIG. 2, illustration of a cover such as fabric placed on the surface of the seat 101 is omitted. In the following, the chair-type massage machine 100 will be referred to as "massage machine 100."

[0012] In the following description, the front side (front side) as viewed from the user U seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest 102 not reclined, which will be described later, is referred to as the "front side," and the rear side (back side) as viewed from the user U seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest 102 not reclined is referred to as the "rear side." Also, the upper side (head side) as viewed from the user U seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest 102 not reclined is referred to as the "upper side," and the lower side (leg side) as viewed from the user U seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest 102 not reclined is referred to as the "lower side." In addition, the right side as seen from the user U seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest portion 102 not reclined is referred to as the "right side," and the left side as seen from the user U seated on the massage machine 100 with the backrest portion 102 not reclined is referred to as the "left side."

[0013] <1. Massager 100> The massage machine 100 includes a seat 101, a backrest 102, a treatment unit 103, a pair of left and right bases 104, a pair of left and right armrests 105, and an ottoman 106. The massage machine 100 also includes a transport unit 1, a lifting unit 2, and a sensor 3.

[0014] The seat 101 supports the buttocks and thighs of the person to be treated U. On the seat 101, a transport unit 1, a lifting unit 2, and a sensor 3 are arranged.

[0015] The backrest 102 is rotatably supported at the rear end of the seat 101, and supports the head, torso (for example, shoulders, waist, and back) of the user U. The backrest 102 is rotatable around a reclining rotation axis (not shown) that extends in the left-right direction. By rotating around the reclining rotation axis, the backrest 102 can be tilted backward or raised forward.

[0016] The treatment unit 103 is capable of treating the back of the treatment recipient U. The treatment unit 103 is disposed on the backrest portion 102 and is movable in the left-right direction and in a direction perpendicular to the left-right direction along the backrest portion 102. For example, the treatment unit 103 is guided by a guide rail 1031 provided on the backrest portion 102 and can move up and down in the longitudinal direction of the backrest portion 102.

[0017] The backrest portion 102 has a pair of side portions 1021 and a pair of pressing portions 1022. The pair of side portions 1021 are aligned in the left-right direction. The pair of side portions 1021 are respectively positioned outside the shoulders and upper arms of the user U in the left-right direction, and face the user U in the left-right direction. For example, the left side portion 1021 is positioned to the left of the user U. The right side portion 1021 is positioned to the right of the user U.

[0018] The pair of pressing portions 1022 are respectively disposed on the pair of side portions 1021. The pressing portions 1022 can press at least one of the shoulders and upper arms of the user U from the outside in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, each pressing portion 1022 has an airbag 1023. By inflating and deflating the airbag 1023, the pressing portion 1022 presses at least one of the shoulders and upper arms of the user U. By inflating the pair of left and right airbags 1023, the user U can be sandwiched between them. Furthermore, by inflating and deflating the airbags 1023, at least one of the shoulders and upper arms of the user U can be treated. Note that the present embodiment is not limited to the example, and the pressing portions 1022 may sandwich the user U between them in the left-right direction using members other than the airbags 1023.

[0019] The base portions 104 are provided upright on both the left and right sides of the seat portion 101 and support the armrest portions 105 .

[0020] The armrests 105 support the forearms and hands of the user U. The pair of armrests 105 on the left and right have symmetrical shapes.

[0021] The ottoman 106 is rotatably supported at the front end of the seat 101 and accommodates the lower legs and feet of the user U. The ottoman 106 is rotatable around a rotation axis (not shown) that extends in the left-right direction below the front end of the seat 101.

[0022] An airbag (not shown) is provided on the ottoman 106. The lower legs of the user U are treated by the inflation and deflation of the airbag.

[0023] The transport unit 1 is disposed on the seat 101 and adjusts the seating position of the user U in the front-to-back direction. For example, the transport unit 1 moves the user U in the front-to-back direction to move the user U to a position more suitable for treatment. When the user U is seated in the above-mentioned position, the massage machine 100 can fully exert its treatment effect. For example, the treatment effect on the lower back is most effective when the user U is seated in the correct seating position. Hereinafter, this position will be referred to as the "appropriate treatment position." Details of the transport unit 1 will be explained later.

[0024] The lifting section 2 is disposed on the seat 101 and is capable of lifting at least the buttocks of the user U upward. The lifting section 2 has an airbag 21 that is inflatable and deflated at least in the vertical direction. The airbag 21 is disposed at least in the rear of the seat 101. The rear airbag 21 is disposed directly below the buttocks of the seated user U. There are two rear airbags 21 in FIG. 2. However, the present invention is not limited to this example, and the number of rear airbags 21 may be one or more than two.

[0025] When the rear airbag 21 inflates, it presses the buttocks of the user U upward. As a result, the rear airbag 21 lifts the buttocks of the user U upward, causing the user U to float slightly. When the rear airbag 21 contracts, the user U's buttocks drop downward due to their own weight. This releases the floating state. In addition, the rear airbag 21 can also inflate and contract to treat the buttocks of the user U.

[0026] In addition, the airbags 21 may be further disposed directly below the thighs of the seated user U, and may be disposed, for example, in the front part of the seat 101 as shown in FIG. 2. The airbags 21 directly below the thighs press the thighs of the user U upward when inflated. For example, by inflating the airbags 21 directly below the thighs together with the rear airbags 21, the user U can be more easily placed in a floating state. Furthermore, the airbags 21 directly below the thighs can also be inflated and deflated to treat the buttocks of the user U. The airbags 21 directly below the thighs can be inflated and deflated independently of the rear airbags 21.

[0027] It should be noted that the lifting unit 2 is not limited to the example of this embodiment, and may lift at least the buttocks of the user U upward using a member other than the airbag 21. For example, the buttocks and thighs of the user U may be lifted upward using a mechanical member that moves up and down by a motor or the like.

[0028] The sensor 3 detects the position in the front-rear direction of the buttocks of the user U. The sensor 3 may be a pressure sensor, a photoelectric sensor, a contact sensor, or the like.

[0029] For example, in this embodiment, the sensor 3 is a plurality of photoelectric sensors, which are arranged in a line in the front-to-rear direction, for example, on inner surfaces of the base 104 or the armrest 105 that face each other in the left-to-right direction. The light-emitting element of the photoelectric sensor is arranged on one of the inner surfaces facing the left or right of the base 104 or the armrest 105. The light-receiving element of the photoelectric sensor is arranged on the other side, facing the light-emitting element in the left-to-right direction.

[0030] Alternatively, the sensor 3 may be disposed below the seat 101 or the backrest 102. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing another example of the arrangement of the sensor 3. In FIG. 3, the sensor 3 includes a sensor 3a and a sensor 3b. For example, a pair of left and right sensors 3a are disposed on the upper surface of the seat 101 and aligned in the front-to-back direction. The sensors 3a are multiple pressure sensors disposed directly below the buttocks or thighs of the seated user U. The pressure sensors detect pressure caused by contact with the user U. For example, the position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-to-back direction can be detected based on the positions of the sensors 3a that detect pressure from the user U and the positions of the sensors 3a that do not detect pressure from the user U. In this case, the sensors 3a are disposed in positions that do not contact the rollers 12, shaft 13, left protrusion 14L, and right protrusion 14R (described later) of the transport unit 1, and the lifting unit 2.

[0031] The sensor 3b is a pressure sensor and is disposed in the lower part of the backrest 102 (that is, the part of the backrest 102 on the seat 101 side). Depending on whether or not the sensor 3b detects pressure from the user U, it can be detected whether or not the buttocks of the user U are separated from the lower part of the backrest 102. For example, if the buttocks of the user U are separated from the lower part of the backrest 102, it can be determined that the buttocks have shifted forward from the appropriate treatment position.

[0032] <2, Control system of massager 100> Next, an example of the configuration of the control system of the massage machine 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the control system that controls the operation of the massage machine 100.

[0033] The massage machine 100 includes an operation unit 1071, a storage unit 1072, a notification unit 1073, a control unit 108, an actuator group 1091, an air pump 1092, an electromagnetic valve group 1093, and the treatment unit 103 described above.

[0034] The operation unit 1071 is an input device that allows the user U to select a treatment pattern, adjust the intensity of the treatment, and give instructions to adjust the seating position (described later). The operation unit 1071 is connected to the control unit 108 via a cord. The operation unit 1071 accepts operation inputs from the user U and the like, and outputs signals based on the operation inputs to the control unit 108. The operation unit 1071 can be attached to and detached from a stand (reference numeral omitted). The stand is fixed to the armrest 105 located on the left side of the seat 101.

[0035] The storage unit 1072 is a non-transitory storage medium that retains stored information even when the power supply is stopped. The storage unit 1072 stores, for example, programs and data necessary for the control unit 108 to control the operation of the massage machine 100. In addition, the storage unit 1072 stores the detection results of the sensor 3, for example, the appropriate position of the buttocks of the user U in the anterior-posterior direction at a predetermined time point. In this way, the massage machine 100 stores in the storage unit 1072 the position detected by the sensor 3 at a predetermined time point as the appropriate treatment position of the buttocks of the user U in the anterior-posterior direction. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can use this memory at a later time point to detect a deviation of the position of the buttocks of the user U in the anterior-posterior direction from the appropriate treatment position.

[0036] The notification unit 1073 issues a predetermined notification to the user U. For example, the notification unit 1073 includes a speaker (not shown) provided in the massage machine 100, and issues a predetermined notification by audio output. The notification unit 1073 also includes a display (not shown) provided in the massage machine 100, and issues a predetermined notification by displaying on the display. The notification unit 1073 also includes a vibration device (not shown) provided in the massage machine 100, and issues a predetermined notification by transmitting vibrations to the user U.

[0037] The control unit 108 is disposed, for example, below the seat 101, and controls each part of the massage machine 100 based on signals output from the operation unit 1071. For example, the control unit 108 controls the actuator group 1091, the air pump 1092, and the solenoid valve group 1093. Furthermore, the control unit 108 controls the transport unit 1 (for example, the drive unit 15 described later) and the lifting unit 2.

[0038] The actuator group 1091 includes a plurality of actuators, such as a backrest actuator that rotates the backrest 102, an ottoman actuator that rotates the ottoman 106, and the like.

[0039] The solenoid valve group 1093 includes a plurality of solenoid valves. Some of the solenoid valves are provided between the air pump 1092 and an airbag group provided in the massage machine 100, and switch between communication and cut-off between the two. The airbag group includes, for example, the airbags 21, 1023 provided in the lifting portion 2 of the seat portion 101 and the pressing portion 1022 of the backrest portion 102. Other of the solenoid valves are provided between the airbag group and the outside, and switch between communication and cut-off between the two.

[0040] For example, when some of the solenoid valves connect the air pump 1092 to the airbag, air is supplied from the air pump 1092 to the airbag via the solenoid valves. This causes the airbag to inflate. On the other hand, when other solenoid valves connect the airbag to the outside, the air in the airbag is released to the outside via the solenoid valves. This releases the air in the airbag, causing the airbag to deflate. Furthermore, when the airbag is no longer connected to either the air pump 1092 or the outside due to the operation of each solenoid valve, the amount of air in the airbag is maintained.

[0041] <3. Configuration of Transfer Unit 1> Next, the transfer unit 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the transfer unit 1. In Fig. 5, a housing 11, which will be described later, is made transparent in order to show the internal configuration of the transfer unit 1.

[0042] The transport unit 1 has a housing 11, a roller 12, a shaft 13, a left protrusion 14L, a right protrusion 14R, a drive unit 15, and a transmission unit 16. In other words, the massage machine 100 includes these components. In the following, the left protrusion 14L and the right protrusion 14R may be collectively referred to as "protrusions 14."

[0043] The housing 11 houses the roller 12, the shaft 13, the protrusion 14, the drive unit 15, and the transmission unit 16. The housing 11 has two openings 111 aligned in the left-right direction. The openings 111 penetrate the top plate portion (reference numeral omitted) of the housing 11 in the up-down direction. A portion of the roller 12 is exposed to the outside of the housing 11 through the openings 111.

[0044] The roller 12 has a shaft 13. The shaft 13 is rotatably supported by the housing 11. The shaft 13 extends along rotation axes A1 and A2 parallel to the left-right direction and is rotatable around the rotation axes A1 and A2. In this embodiment, the shaft 13 has a first shaft 131 and a second shaft 132. The first shaft 131 extends along a first rotation axis A1 parallel to the left-right direction and is rotatable around the first rotation axis A1. The central axis of the first shaft 131 coincides with the first rotation axis A1. The second shaft 132 extends along a second rotation axis A2 parallel to the left-right direction and is rotatable around the second rotation axis A2. The second shaft 132 is disposed rearward of the first shaft 131. The central axis of the second shaft 132 coincides with the second rotation axis A2.

[0045] The rollers 12 extend in the left-right direction and are arranged in the seat 101 so as to be rotatable about the left-right direction by rotation of the shaft 13. The rollers 12 can press at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user U. The rollers 12 rotate as the airbags 21 of the lifting part 2 inflate. In this way, the massage machine 100 can move the user U in the front-back direction while lightly lifting him / her up.

[0046] That is, the lifting unit 2 lifts upward the buttocks of the user U sitting on the seat 101. Furthermore, the rollers 12 rotate to press at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user U. As a result, even if the seating position in the front-rear direction of the user U sitting on the seat 101 is deviated from the appropriate treatment position, the massage machine 100 can move the seating position in the front-rear direction and return it to the appropriate treatment position.

[0047] For example, if the seating position is shifted forward from the appropriate treatment position, the massage machine 100 rotates the roller 12 clockwise when viewed from left to right. This allows the massage machine 100 to move the seating position backward and return it to the appropriate treatment position. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can eliminate the seating position shift in the front-to-back direction of the user U, and can provide sufficient treatment to the user U.

[0048] The rollers 12 also include a pair of left and right first rollers 121 and a pair of left and right second rollers 122. The first rollers 121 are disposed at the radially outer end of a first shaft 131 and extend in the left-right direction. The first rollers 121 are held by the first shaft 131. The pair of left and right first rollers 121 are aligned in the left-right direction and are rotatable around the left-right direction.

[0049] The second roller 122 is disposed at the radially outer end of the second shaft 132 and extends in the left-right direction. The second roller 122 is held by the second shaft 132. The pair of left and right second rollers 122 are aligned in the left-right direction and are rotatable around the left-right direction.

[0050] The upper end of the first roller 121 and the upper end of the second roller 122 each protrude outside the housing 11 through the opening 111. This allows the first roller 121 to press against the thighs of the seated user U. The second roller 122 can press against the buttocks of the seated user U. For example, the first roller 121 and the second roller 122 arranged on the left side can press against the left thigh and the left side of the buttocks of the seated user U, respectively. The first roller 121 and the second roller 122 arranged on the right side can press against the right thigh and the right side of the buttocks of the seated user U, respectively.

[0051] Preferably, the rotation axis of the shaft 13 (e.g., the first rotation axis A1, the second rotation axis A2) is eccentric with respect to the radial center of the roller 12. In other words, the roller 12 has a rotation axis eccentric with respect to the radial center. For example, the first roller 121 is attached eccentrically with respect to the first rotation axis A1. The first rotation axis A1 is eccentric with respect to the radial center of the first roller 121. Furthermore, the second roller 122 is attached eccentrically with respect to the second rotation axis A2. The second rotation axis A2 is eccentric with respect to the radial center of the second roller 122. In this way, the massage machine 100 can make the roller 12 bite into at least one of the aforementioned regions of the user U, and can lightly lift the user U by the rotating roller 12. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the user U in the front-rear direction. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the first roller 121 is not eccentric with respect to the first rotation axis A1, nor does it exclude a configuration in which the second roller 122 is not eccentric with respect to the second rotation axis A2. For example, the central axis of the first roller 121 may coincide with the first rotation axis A1. Furthermore, the central axis of the second roller 122 may coincide with the second rotation axis A2.

[0052] The left protrusion 14L and the right protrusion 14R protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the roller 12. The radially outer end of the left protrusion 14L and the radially outer end of the right protrusion 14R each have a rounded shape.

[0053] The left protrusion 14L can press at least one of the above-mentioned regions (buttocks, thigh) on the left half of the body of the user U. For example, the roller 12 has a left protrusion 14L. The left protrusion 14L is disposed on each of the first roller 121 on the left side and the second roller 122 on the left side. The left protrusion 14L of the first roller 121 on the left side is disposed directly below the left thigh of the seated user U. The left protrusion 14L of the second roller 122 on the left side is disposed directly below the left side of the buttocks of the seated user U.

[0054] Further, the right protrusion 14R can press at least one of the above-mentioned regions (buttocks, thigh) on the right half of the body of the user U. For example, the roller 12 has a right protrusion 14R. The right protrusion 14R is disposed on each of the first roller 121 on the right side and the second roller 122 on the right side. The right protrusion 14R of the first roller 121 on the right side is disposed directly below the right thigh of the seated user U. The right protrusion 14R of the second roller 122 on the right side is disposed directly below the right side of the buttocks of the seated user U.

[0055] In this way, the massage machine 100 can make the left protruding portion 14L bite into at least one of the left side of the buttocks and the left thigh of the user U sitting on the seat 101. Also, the massage machine 100 can make the right protruding portion 14R bite into at least one of the right side of the buttocks and the right thigh of the user U sitting on the seat. Therefore, by rotating the rollers 12 in these states, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the user U in the front-rear direction. Also, it can provide a stronger massage to at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user U.

[0056] Preferably, multiple left protrusions 14L are arranged on one roller 12, and are aligned in the circumferential direction. More preferably, multiple left protrusions 14L arranged on one roller 12 are aligned at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. For example, in this embodiment, two left protrusions 14L are arranged 180° apart around the shaft 13, that is, aligned with two-fold symmetry. However, the above example does not exclude a configuration in which a single left protrusion 14L is arranged on one roller 12. Furthermore, the above configuration does not exclude a configuration in which multiple left protrusions 14L arranged on one roller 12 are not aligned at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0057] Preferably, the number of right protrusions 14R arranged on one roller 12 is multiple and they are aligned in the circumferential direction. More preferably, the multiple right protrusions 14R arranged on one roller 12 are aligned at equal intervals in the circumferential direction. For example, in this embodiment, the two right protrusions 14R are aligned 180° apart around the shaft 13, that is, aligned with two-fold symmetry. However, the above example does not exclude a configuration in which a single right protrusion 14R is arranged on one roller 12. Furthermore, the above configuration does not exclude a configuration in which the multiple right protrusions 14R arranged on one roller 12 are not aligned at equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first roller 121 and the second roller 122 are each formed with a left protrusion 14L and a right protrusion 14R. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the first roller 121 does not have at least one of the left protrusion 14L and the right protrusion 14R. Furthermore, the above example does not exclude a configuration in which the second roller 122 does not have at least one of the left protrusion 14L and the right protrusion 14R. For example, either the left protrusion 14L or the right protrusion 14R may be disposed on only one of the first roller 121 and the second roller 122. Furthermore, the left protrusion 14L and the right protrusion 14R may be omitted, or may not be disposed on the roller 12.

[0059] Next, the driving unit 15 rotates the rollers 12. In detail, the driving unit 15 is a driving device such as a motor, and rotates the first shaft 131 and the second shaft 132. The driving unit 15 is disposed between the first roller 121 and the second roller 122 on the left side and the first roller 121 and the second roller 122 on the right side in the left-right direction.

[0060] The transmission unit 16 transmits the rotational driving force of the drive unit 15 to the shaft 13. For example, the rotational driving force of the drive unit 15 is transmitted to the first shaft 131 via a gear mechanism (not shown) of the transmission unit 16. The rotational driving force of the first shaft 131 is transmitted to the second shaft 132 via a first pulley (not shown), a belt (not shown), and a second pulley (not shown). The first pulley is fixed to the center of the first shaft 131 in the left-right direction. The second pulley is fixed to the center of the second shaft 132 in the left-right direction. The belt is wound from the first pulley to the second pulley. This allows the transfer unit 1 to rotate the first roller 121 and the second roller 122 using the same drive unit 15. Note that this example does not exclude a configuration in which the first roller 121 and the second roller 122 are rotated by driving separate drive devices.

[0061] <4. Operation example of massager 100> Next, an example of the operation of the massage machine 100 for eliminating the displacement of the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction will be described.

[0062] <4-1. First operation example> For example, before performing a massage on the lower back, the control unit 108 inflates the airbag 21 of the lifting unit 2 to lift at least the buttocks of the user U upward. This puts the user U in a lightly floating state. This reduces the frictional force generated between the seat unit 101 and the user U when moving the user U in the front-to-back direction.

[0063] Next, the control unit 108 rotates the roller 12 clockwise when viewed from the left side to the right side. Therefore, the roller 12 rotates toward the user U. At this time, the pressing portion of the roller 12 against the user U moves rearward. As a result, a rearward force acts on the user U, who is in a lightly floating state. Therefore, the user U can be moved rearward. Note that these operations can be performed, for example, based on an operation input from the user U to the operation unit 1071.

[0064] Alternatively, the above-described operation may be performed automatically based on the detection result of the sensor 3. For example, the sensor 3 detects the position of the buttocks in the front-rear direction (for example, the first position) when the user U sits in an appropriate treatment position (for example, a first time point). The detection result is stored in the memory unit 1072 as the appropriate treatment position. When the user U's buttocks shift at a second time point after the first time point, the control unit 108 returns the user U's buttocks to the appropriate treatment position. That is, at the second time point, the control unit 108 determines whether the position of the user U's buttocks in the front-rear direction is at least a predetermined distance from the first position (i.e., the appropriate treatment position) based on the detection result of the sensor 3. If the user U's buttocks are at least a predetermined distance from the first position in the front-rear direction, the control unit 108 causes the lifting unit to lift the user U's buttocks upward and rotates the rollers 12. In this way, the massage machine 100 can automatically move the buttocks of the user U in the front-rear direction based on the detection result of the sensor 3 and return them to an appropriate treatment position.

[0065] For example, if the buttocks move forward due to movement during treatment, the position of the buttocks in the anterior-posterior direction is likely to shift forward from the appropriate treatment position. In such a case, the control unit 108 detects, based on the detection results of the sensor 3, that the position of the buttocks of the user U in the anterior-posterior direction is shifted forward from the appropriate treatment position. Furthermore, if the user U sits shallowly on the seat or if the user U is small in stature, the position of the buttocks in the anterior-posterior direction is likely to shift forward from the appropriate treatment position. In these cases, the control unit 108 can similarly detect a shift forward, for example, by using the most recent appropriate treatment position stored in the memory unit 1072. Then, while lightly lifting the user U with the lifting unit 2, the control unit 108 rotates the rollers 12 clockwise when viewed from left to right, thereby moving the user U backward. This allows the massage machine 100 to automatically move the buttocks of the user U to an appropriate treatment position in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can eliminate displacement of the seating position in the front-rear direction, and can fully exert the treatment effect.

[0066] On the other hand, if the position of the buttocks in the front-to-back direction is shifted rearward from the appropriate treatment position, the control unit 108 rotates the rollers 12 counterclockwise when viewed from left to right while lightly lifting the user U with the lifting unit 2. This allows the massage machine 100 to automatically move the user U forward and return the user U's buttocks to the appropriate treatment position.

[0067] At this time, the control unit 108 may issue a predetermined notification. For example, when the control unit 108 detects based on the detection result of the sensor 3 that the buttocks of the user U are separated from the first position (i.e., the appropriate treatment position) by a predetermined distance or more in the front-rear direction, the notification unit 1073 may issue a predetermined notification. In this way, the massage machine 100 can notify the user U that the position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-rear direction is deviated from the appropriate treatment position. In response to the notification, the user U can correct his / her seated position by re-sitting down, or move himself / herself backward by manually rotating the rollers 12, for example.

[0068] <4-2. Second operation example> The massage machine 100 may combine the operation of the first operation example with the operation of other components. For example, the control unit 108 rotates the backrest unit 102 relative to the seat unit 101 to tilt the backrest unit 102 backward or forward, and also lifts the buttocks of the user U upward with the lifting unit 2 to rotate the rollers 12. That is, when the control unit 108 rotates the rollers 12 in a state in which the user U is lightly lifted by the lifting unit 2, the control unit 108 tilts the backrest unit 102 backward to place the user U in a supine position, and then rotates the backrest unit 102 forward to raise the user U up.

[0069] That is, the massage machine 100 rotates the rollers 12 as described above while supporting the torso of the user U with the backrest 102 in a state in which the user U is lightly lifted by the lifting unit 2. This allows the massage machine 100 to more easily move the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction. Therefore, even if the seating position of the user U is shifted in the front-rear direction from the appropriate treatment position, the massage machine 100 can easily eliminate the shift.

[0070] For example, if the seating position is shifted forward from the appropriate treatment position, the backrest 102 tilts backward, and the buttocks of the user U are pulled backward along with the backward movement of the torso. This allows the massage machine 100 to eliminate the forward shift of the seating position.

[0071] At this time, preferably, the control unit 108 tilts the backrest 102 backward to place the user U in a supine position. More preferably, the massage machine 100 fully reclines the backrest 102, tilting it backward to a position close to horizontal. Furthermore, the control unit 108 lifts the buttocks of the user U upward using the lifting unit 2 and rotates the rollers 12 clockwise when viewed from left to right. For example, the massage machine 100 places the user U in a position where he or she can lie down (e.g., a supine position). By this operation, the massage machine 100 can move the torso of the user U significantly backward. Accordingly, the buttocks of the user U are pulled and moved backward. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the user U backward and return him or her to an appropriate treatment position. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the massage machine 100 does not fully recline the backrest portion 102. For example, the massage machine 100 may tilt the backrest portion 102 backward to a position that is not horizontal.

[0072] Furthermore, if the seating position is shifted backward from the appropriate treatment position, the backrest 102 rises, and the buttocks of the person U are pushed forward and moved along with the rising of the torso. This allows the massage machine 100 to eliminate the seating position being shifted backward.

[0073] Here, the rotational movement of the backrest 102 may be performed simultaneously with the movement of the rollers 12. When both are performed simultaneously, the movement of the buttocks accompanying the movement of the torso is linked to the movement of the buttocks due to the rotation of the rollers 12. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction.

[0074] Alternatively, the rotation of the backrest portion 102 may be performed before the movement of the rollers 12. In this case, the massage machine 100 can move the buttocks in the front-rear direction in conjunction with the movement of the torso while the user U is lightly lifted by the lifting portion 2. Furthermore, the massage machine 100 can easily move the buttocks in the front-rear direction by the rotation of the rollers 12 while the user U is lightly lifted and a force in the front-rear direction is acting on the buttocks.

[0075] Preferably, the control unit 108 moves the treatment unit 103 along the backrest 102 when rotating the backrest 102 and the rollers 12 .

[0076] In this way, the massage machine 100 can move the buttocks of the user U in the front-back direction by moving the torso of the user U with the treatment unit 103 that is in contact with the back of the user U. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the seating position of the user U to an appropriate treatment position.

[0077] For example, when the massage machine 100 tilts the backrest 102 backward and rotates the rollers 12 clockwise when viewed from left to right, it moves the treatment unit 103, which is in contact with the back of the user U, from the buttocks side to the shoulders side of the user U. This allows the massage machine 100 to move the torso of the user U backward using the treatment unit 103, which is in contact with the back of the user U. Accordingly, the buttocks of the user U are pulled backward and move. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the user U backward and return them to an appropriate treatment position. At this time, the massage machine 100 tilts the backrest 102 backward to a position nearly horizontal and rotates the rollers 12 in a state where the user U can lie down (for example, in a supine position). This allows the massage machine 100 to more effectively treat the user U.

[0078] Furthermore, when the massage machine 100 raises the backrest 102 and rotates the rollers 12 counterclockwise when viewed from left to right, it moves the treatment unit 103 that contacts the back of the user U from the shoulder side toward the buttocks side of the user U. This allows the massage machine 100 to move the torso of the user U forward with the treatment unit 103 that contacts the back of the user U. Accordingly, the buttocks of the user U are pulled and moved backward. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the user U forward and return him or her to an appropriate treatment position.

[0079] However, the above example does not exclude a configuration in which the treatment unit 103 does not move along the backrest 102 when the backrest 102 and the rollers 12 rotate.

[0080] Preferably, when rotating the backrest 102, the control unit 108 presses the user U with the pair of pressing units 1022. In this way, the massage machine 100 can rotate the backrest 102 while at least one of the shoulders and upper arms of the user U is sandwiched between the pair of pressing units 1022. For example, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the torso of the user U backward by tilting the backrest 102 backward while maintaining the above-mentioned state. Furthermore, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the torso of the user U backward by raising the backrest 102 while maintaining the above-mentioned state. Therefore, the massage machine can more easily move the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction and return to an appropriate treatment position. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which the pair of pressing portions 1022 do not press against the user U when the backrest portion 102 rotates.

[0081] <2. Notes> The above describes an embodiment of the present invention. Note that the above embodiment is merely an example, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible in the combination of each component and each process, and that these modifications are within the scope of the present invention.

[0082] For example, in the above-described embodiment, the rollers 12 of the transfer unit 1 include a first roller 121 and a second roller 122. However, this is not limiting, and either the first roller 121 or the second roller 122 may be omitted. Alternatively, the transfer unit 1 may be configured such that the rollers 12 further include a pair of third rollers on the left and right that are different from the first roller 121 and the second roller 122. The third rollers are configured similarly to the first roller 121 and the second roller 122.

[0083] <3. Summary> According to the above-described embodiment, the massage machine 100 is configured to include a seat 101 that supports the buttocks and thighs of the user U, rollers 12 that extend in the left-right direction and are arranged on the seat 101 so as to be rotatable about the left-right direction and that can press at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user U, a drive unit 15 that rotates the rollers 12, a lifting unit 2 that is arranged on the seat 101 and can lift the buttocks of the user U upward, and a control unit 108 that controls the lifting unit 2 and the drive unit 15.

[0084] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can move the user U in the front-rear direction while lightly lifting him / her up. For example, the lifting unit 2 lifts the buttocks of the user U seated on the seat 101. Furthermore, the rollers 12 that press at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user U rotate. As a result, even if the seating position of the user U seated on the seat 101 in the front-rear direction is deviated from the appropriate treatment position, the massage machine 100 can move the seating position in the front-rear direction and return it to the appropriate treatment position. For example, if the seating position is deviated forward from the appropriate treatment position, the massage machine 100 rotates the rollers 12 clockwise when viewed from left to right. As a result, the massage machine 100 can move the seating position backward and return it to the appropriate treatment position. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can eliminate the displacement of the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction, and can provide the user U with a sufficient massage.

[0085] The above-mentioned massage machine 100 has a left-side protrusion 14L that can press at least one of the above-mentioned areas on the left half of the body of the person being treated U, and a right-side protrusion 14R that can press at least one of the above-mentioned areas on the right half of the body of the person being treated U, and the left-side protrusion 14L and the right-side protrusion 14R may be configured to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the roller 12.

[0086] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can make the left protruding portion 14L bite into at least one of the left side of the buttocks and the left thigh of the user U sitting on the seat 101. Also, the massage machine 100 can make the right protruding portion 14R bite into at least one of the right side of the buttocks and the right thigh of the user U sitting on the seat 101. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the user U in the front-rear direction by rotating the rollers 12 in these states. Also, it is possible to provide a stronger massage to at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user U.

[0087] In the massage machine 100 described above, the roller 12 may be configured to have rotation axes A1 and A2 that are eccentric with respect to the radial center.

[0088] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can make the rollers 12 bite into at least one of the above-mentioned regions of the user U, and can lightly lift the user U with the rotating rollers 12. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the user U in the forward and backward directions.

[0089] The massage machine 100 may further include a backrest portion 102 that is rotatably supported at the rear end of the seat portion 101 and supports the torso of the person being treated U, and the control portion 108 may be configured to rotate the backrest portion 102 relative to the seat portion 101, and to lift the buttocks of the person being treated U upward using the lifting portion 2, thereby rotating the rollers 12.

[0090] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 rotates the rollers 12 as described above while supporting the torso of the user U with the backrest 102 in a state in which the user U is lightly lifted by the lifting section 2. This allows the massage machine 100 to more easily move the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction. Therefore, even if the seating position of the user U is shifted in the front-rear direction from the appropriate treatment position, the massage machine 100 can easily correct this shift.

[0091] In the above massage machine 100, the control unit 108 may be configured to tilt the backrest unit 102 backward to place the user U in a supine position, and to lift the buttocks of the user U upward using the lifting unit 2, and to rotate the roller 12 clockwise when viewed from left to right.

[0092] According to this configuration, for example, the massage machine 100 tilts the backrest 102 backward to a position that is nearly horizontal, allowing the user U to lie down (for example, lying on his / her back). This operation allows the massage machine 100 to move the torso of the user U significantly backward. Accordingly, the buttocks of the user U are pulled backward and move. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the user U backward and return him / her to an appropriate treatment position.

[0093] The above massage machine 100 may further include a treatment unit 103 capable of treating the back of the user U, the treatment unit 103 being arranged on the backrest portion 102 and being movable along the backrest portion 102 in the left-right direction and in a direction perpendicular to the left-right direction, and the control unit 108 may be configured to move the treatment unit 103 along the backrest portion 102 when rotating the backrest portion 102 and the rollers 12.

[0094] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can move the buttocks of the user U in the front-rear direction by moving the torso of the user U with the treatment unit 103 that comes into contact with the back of the user U. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the seat position of the user U to an appropriate treatment position.

[0095] In the massage machine 100 described above, the backrest portion 102 has a pair of side portions 1021 that are positioned laterally outward of the shoulders and upper arms of the person being treated U and that face the person being treated U in the laterally direction, and a pair of pressing portions 1022 that are positioned on the pair of side portions 1021, respectively, and that can press at least one of the shoulders and upper arms of the person being treated U from the outside in the laterally direction, and the control portion 108 may be configured to press the person being treated U with the pair of pressing portions 1022 when rotating the backrest portion 102.

[0096] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can rotate the backrest 102 while at least one of the shoulders and the upper arms of the user U is sandwiched between the pair of left and right pressing portions 1022. For example, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the torso of the user U backward by tilting the backrest 102 backward while the massage machine 100 is in the above-mentioned state. Furthermore, the massage machine 100 can more reliably move the torso of the user U backward by raising the backrest 102 while the massage machine 100 is in the above-mentioned state. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can more easily move the seating position of the user U in the front-rear direction and return the user U to an appropriate treatment position.

[0097] The above massage machine 100 may further be configured to include a sensor 3 that detects the position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-to-back direction, and a memory unit 1072 that stores a first position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-to-back direction at a predetermined first point in time.

[0098] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 stores in the storage unit a first position detected by the sensor at a predetermined first time point as an appropriate treatment position in the front-to-back direction of the buttocks of the user U. The massage machine 100 can use this memory at a time point after the first time point to detect a deviation of the position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-to-back direction from the appropriate treatment position.

[0099] In the above massage machine 100, when the control unit 108 detects based on the detection result of the sensor 3 that a second position, which is the position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-to-back direction at a second time point later than the above-mentioned first time point, is away from the above-mentioned first position (i.e., the appropriate treatment position) by a predetermined distance or more in the front-to-back direction, the control unit 108 may be configured to lift the buttocks of the user U upward using the lifting unit 2 and rotate the rollers 12.

[0100] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can automatically move the buttocks of the user U in the front-rear direction based on the detection result of the sensor 3 and return them to an appropriate treatment position.

[0101] The massage machine 100 may further include an alarm unit 1073 that issues a predetermined alarm to the user U, and the control unit 108 may be configured to issue an alarm via the alarm unit 1073 when it detects, based on the detection result of the sensor 3, that the buttocks of the user U are at a predetermined distance or more in the front-to-back direction from the first position (i.e., the appropriate treatment position) described above.

[0102] According to this configuration, the massage machine 100 can notify the user U that the position of the buttocks of the user U in the front-to-back direction is deviated from the appropriate treatment position. In response to the notification, the user U can correct his / her seated position by re-sitting down, or manually move himself / herself backward by rotating the rollers 12, for example. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 100 (chair type) massage machine 101 Seat area 102 Backrest 1021 Side part 1022 Pressing part 1023 Airbag 103 Treatment Unit 1031 Guide rail 104 Base 105 Armrest 106 Ottoman 1071 Operation unit 1072 Storage section 1073 Information Department 108 Control Unit 1091 Actuators 1092 Air Pump 1093 Solenoid valve group 1 transport unit 11. Housing 111 Opening 12 Laura 121 First Roller 122 Second Roller 13 Shaft 131 First Shaft 132 Second Shaft 14L Left side protrusion 14R Right side protrusion 15 Drive unit 16 Transmission section 2 Lifting section 21 Airbag 3 sensors U Recipient A1 First rotation axis A2 2nd rotation axis

Claims

[Claim 1] A seat portion that supports the buttocks and thighs of the person to be treated; A backrest portion rotatably supported at the rear end of the seat portion and supporting the torso of the user; a roller extending in the left-right direction, arranged on the seat portion so as to be rotatable about the left-right direction, and capable of pressing at least one of the buttocks and thighs of the user; a drive unit that rotates the roller; a control unit that controls the drive unit; a sensor for detecting the position of the buttocks of the person to be treated in the front-rear direction; Equipped with When the control unit determines based on the detection results of the sensor that the buttocks of the person being treated are away from the lower part of the backrest, it rotates the rollers in a direction that brings the buttocks of the person being treated closer to the lower part of the backrest.

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