Current stimulation device

Abstract

It was not possible to achieve the effect of regulating the autonomic nervous system throughout the body. [Solution] The electric current stimulation device of the present invention comprises a main body that is worn by the user in a ring-shaped state, having a belt portion and an expandable elastic portion, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit to the first electrode and connects the output circuit to the second electrode, a control unit that controls the electric signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit, and outputs an electric signal that regulates the user's autonomic nervous system, the electric signal consisting of a group of pulses having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity, has an amplitude of 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less so that the user does not feel pain or cause muscle contraction, and a frequency of 20 Hz or less, and is an electric signal having an amplitude of at least one of positive or negative polarity, and is output using the first electrode and the second electrode arranged opposite each other on the wrist.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and device for applying an electrical signal for current stimulation, which applies transcutaneous stimulation to a limb, particularly to a peripheral portion or its vicinity, using an electric current. [Background technology]

[0002] Technologies for applying electrical signals to the human body have been put to practical use. The most commonly known type of transcutaneous electrical stimulation device is one that increases muscle output by inducing muscle contraction. This device uses external electrical stimulation to contract and release muscles, allowing for efficient muscle training. This device applies a high load to muscle tissue, temporarily and microscopically destroying muscle fibers, and then repairing the damaged muscle fibers as stronger muscle tissue, thereby increasing muscle size and strength, thereby improving muscle output and improving physical function. Meanwhile, a technology has been proposed that temporarily increases or decreases muscle output by applying a characteristic weak current to muscles, as in Patent Document 1, for example. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-202445 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The above method uses strong electrical current stimulation to contract muscles, allowing for efficient muscle training and muscle hypertrophy / strengthening. Muscle output improves as a result, but muscle output cannot be improved until muscle tissue has hypertrophied. Furthermore, muscle relaxation can only be achieved by repeatedly contracting and releasing the muscles, and conventional electrical current stimulation devices cannot directly relax muscles.

[0005] On the other hand, in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, a pair of electrodes is placed along a specific target muscle, and electrical stimulation with controlled ramp-up or ramp-down time is applied, thereby improving the strength and relaxing the specific muscle.

[0006] However, with these techniques, the effect was limited to specific muscles to which electrodes were placed and electrical stimulation was applied, and it was not possible to obtain an effect on multiple muscles at once, nor to simultaneously tense or relax multiple muscles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides the following means: That is, the electric current stimulation device of the present invention comprises a main body having a belt part and an expandable and contractible part and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit to the first electrode and the output circuit to the second electrode, a control part that controls the electric signal, and a power supply part that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control part, and outputs the electric signal that regulates the autonomic nerves of the user, and the electric signal output by the output circuit is an electric current stimulation device comprising a group of pulses having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity. The electrical signal has an amplitude of 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less, which is an amplitude of the electrical signal that does not cause pain to the user or cause muscle contraction, a frequency of 20 Hz or less, and has an amplitude of at least one of positive and negative polarity, and when the main body is worn on the wrist of the user, the first electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist, and the second electrode is positioned on the opposite side of the wrist from the first electrode, so that the electrical signal is supplied to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned opposite the wrist.

[0008] (2) Furthermore, the current stimulation device of the present invention includes a main body having a belt part and an expandable stretchable part and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit to the first electrode and connects the output circuit to the second electrode, a control part that controls the electric signal, and a power supply part that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control part, and outputs the electric signal that regulates the autonomic nerves of the user, and the electric signal output by the output circuit is an electric signal consisting of a pulse group having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity. The electrical signal has an amplitude of 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less, which is an amplitude of the electrical signal that does not cause pain to the user or cause muscle contraction, a frequency of 20 Hz or less, and has an amplitude of at least one of positive and negative polarity, and when the main body is worn on the wrist of the user, the first electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist, and the second electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist with respect to the first electrode, thereby supplying the electrical signal to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned adjacent to the wrist.

[0009] (3) Furthermore, the current stimulation device of the present invention is characterized in that the first electrode and the second electrode are arranged on the belt portion, and the harness is arranged inside the belt portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The present invention can provide an electric current stimulation device that can provide tension or relaxation of tension, or other effects, to the entire body by applying weak electric current stimulation to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a main body A1 according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a controller according to the present invention. [Figure 3]3 is a schematic diagram of an output waveform according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a main body B2 according to the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a controller according to the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a controller according to the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a controller according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] [Embodiment 1] Figure 1(a) shows the exterior side view of the main body A1 of the electrical current stimulation device according to the present invention. The main body A1 consists of a belt portion A101, an elastic portion A107, and a controller A104. The belt portion A101 is equipped with a first electrode A102 and a second electrode B103 that come into contact with the human body, and these electrodes are connected to the controller A104 by a harness A108 disposed inside the belt portion A101. The harness A108 is not visible from the outside, so only its position is indicated by a dotted line. Figure 1(b) is a front view of the main body A1 as viewed in the direction of arrow A in Figure 1(a).

[0013] The stretchable portion A107 is made of, for example, silicone rubber and is easily stretchable. The stretchable portion A107 stretches and contracts to attach the main body to a limb, for example, the wrist. When attached, the electrodes A102 and B103 come into contact with the skin of the wrist, allowing for the application of electrical stimulation, as described below. The part where the main body A1 is attached is not limited to the wrist, but may also be the ankle, and attachment to a peripheral part or its vicinity is desirable. In particular, attachment to the wrist or ankle is easy in terms of ease of attachment, difficulty in removal, and ease of handling during use. In this embodiment, the main body A1 will be described as being attached to the wrist. The stretchable portion A107 is not limited to silicone rubber, but may also be natural rubber or urethane rubber.

[0014] The main unit A1 is worn so that the controller A104 is on the back side of the wrist, with the electrode A102 in contact with the back side of the wrist and the electrode B103 in contact with the palm side of the wrist. Alternatively, the controller A104 may be worn on the palm side, with the electrode A102 in contact with the palm side of the wrist and the electrode B103 in contact with the back side of the wrist.

[0015] The main body A1 is configured in a ring shape by the belt portion A101 and the stretchable portion A107, but the belt portion A101 may be made of silicone rubber, natural rubber, or the like, and the main body A1 may be configured so that it can be worn on the wrist by stretching the entire belt portion. Here, the ring does not have to be circular, and may be a polygonal shape such as an oval, triangle, or rectangle, or any other shape as long as it can be worn on the wrist appropriately.

[0016] The belt portion may be strip-shaped rather than endless, and fastening means such as hook-and-loop fasteners, buttons, or hooks may be attached to both ends, for example, it may be configured so that it is wrapped around the wrist and fastened with hook-and-loop fasteners to form a ring.Alternatively, the belt portion may be configured so that it does not have an endless shape even when worn, but has an open end, for example, by using an elastic leaf spring or the like to form a strip-shaped belt portion with a part of the open end, and the elasticity of the leaf spring makes it easy to put on and take off, and also makes it easy and reliable to make contact between the electrode and the skin.

[0017] Electrode A102 and electrode B103 are made of, for example, a solid gel with high conductivity or low electrical resistance. However, the material is not limited to this, and may be a metal such as a molded stainless steel plate, or a conductive cloth using silver thread or the like, or a conductive paint, as long as the electrodes fit the area where main body A1 is attached and an electrical signal can be appropriately applied to the skin. Alternatively, conductive rubber may be used, such as a conductive rubber made by mixing a conductive material such as carbon powder with a base material of silicone rubber or urethane rubber to give it conductivity.

[0018] Controller A104 is equipped with a switch A105 and an LED A106, which can control the electrical signals applied to electrode A102 and electrode B103. When switch A105 is pressed, LED A106 lights up, and electrical stimulation, which will be described later, is supplied via electrode A102 and electrode B103 to the vicinity of the extremity, in this embodiment to the wrist.

[0019] 2 shows a block diagram of the controller A104. The controller A104 is configured to include at least some or all of a control unit A202 that controls electrical signals, a waveform generation unit A204 that is an output circuit, a timer 207, a user IF unit 201, a power supply unit 206, a battery 203, etc. In this embodiment, the controller A104 will be described as being configured from all of these components.

[0020] The control unit A202 incorporates a CPU, memory, and an interface unit for connecting to each unit, and is connected to and controls a waveform generation unit A204 that generates an electrical signal that provides a current stimulus, a timer 207 that manages output for a certain period of time, and a user IF unit 201 that is connected to a switch A105 and an LED A106.

[0021] The power supplied from the battery 203 is controlled by a power supply unit 206 to a predetermined constant voltage value, for example, 5 V, and is supplied to each unit via a control unit A202.

[0022] When the user presses the switch A105 after wearing the main body A1 on their wrist, this information is sent to the control unit A202 via the user IF unit 201, and the control unit A202 instructs the waveform generation unit A204 to output an electrical signal, which will be described later. Alternatively, the control unit A202 may be configured to supply power to the waveform generation unit A204, thereby causing the waveform generation unit A204 to start generating an electrical signal.

[0023] The control unit A202 may read parameters of the electrical signal to be generated from a memory that constitutes the control unit A202 or that is provided externally to the control unit A202 and supply them to the waveform generation unit A204, and the waveform generation unit A204 may output the electrical signal in accordance with the parameters.

[0024] The electrical signal output by the waveform generating unit A204 is supplied to electrode A102, which is connected to terminal A208 by harness A108, and to electrode B103, which is connected to terminal B209 by harness A108. In synchronization with the output instruction to waveform generating unit A204, timer 207 is instructed to start timing, and timer 207 begins measuring a predetermined time, for example, 15 minutes or 1 hour. Information regarding the measurement by timer 207, for example, information that the predetermined time has elapsed, is fed back to control unit A202, and in response to this feedback, control unit A202 stops output of the electrical signal by instructing waveform generating unit A204 to stop generating the electrical signal or by stopping the supply of power to waveform generating unit A204.

[0025] The control unit A202 instructs the user IF unit 201 to turn on the LED-A106 in accordance with the power supply to the waveform generation unit A204, and the user IF unit 201 supplies power to the LED-A106 to turn on the LED-A106. Conversely, when the control unit A202 stops the power supply to the waveform generation unit A204 or instructs the generation of an electrical signal to stop, it instructs the user IF unit 201 to turn off the LED-A106, and the user IF unit 201 stops the power supply to the LED-A106 to turn off the LED-A106.

[0026] As the battery 203, a battery with a relatively small capacity can be used because the main body A1 uses a weak current, and it may be, for example, a button-type battery. Alternatively, it may be a battery that can be used repeatedly by recharging, such as a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, instead of the battery 203, it may be configured to be usable by connecting to a DC power source using a household outlet.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an electrical signal supplied to a limb according to the present invention. In FIG. 3, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents current value. A group of multiple pulses is referred to as a pulse group. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3(a), a second pulse group consisting of multiple pulses of a constant amplitude is used. After a time (T4) during which no electrical signal is output has elapsed, the second pulse group is output again, and this process is repeated. In FIG. 3, the vertical axis represents current value. While amplitude is used herein to mean the amplitude of the current value, the present invention is not limited to this. Amplitude also means the amplitude of the current value, voltage value, or power associated with the pulse. Furthermore, amplitude is not limited to the amplitude of the current, voltage, or power.

[0028] As an example, the second pulse group is output at a frequency of 50 Hz, a pulse width of 200 μsec, and an output of 50 μA. Therefore, although more pulses than those shown in the figure are actually applied, only a portion of them is shown in order to clearly explain the pulse group and for simplicity.

[0029] The pulse used in this embodiment has an output that does not allow the human body to sense the electrical stimulation (hereinafter referred to as "imperceptible output"). Generally, when the current value exceeds 20 mA, pain due to the current is likely to occur. As can be seen from page 242, Figure 8-20 of EBM Physical Therapy, 2nd Edition (Ishiyaku Publishing Co., Ltd.), an output of 20 mA or more is required to cause muscle contraction. Conversely, if the current is 20 mA or less, although the person can sense that an electrical signal is being applied, muscle contraction is unlikely to occur. Furthermore, by setting the current to approximately 50 μA as in this embodiment, not only does muscle contraction not normally occur, but unless special conditions are met, the person usually cannot sense that an electrical signal is being supplied, and of course, does not feel pain due to the electrical signal.

[0030] In the present invention, by applying the above-mentioned electrical signal to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity using a single set of electrodes, the effect is achieved throughout the entire body, specifically, a whole-body relaxation effect. As described above, in the present invention, a pair of electrodes A102 and B103 are placed on the palm side and back side of the wrist. In prior art, the effect is limited to the muscles at the site where the electrodes are attached. However, in the present invention, there are no nerves or muscles in the area where the electrodes are attached, i.e., the wrist, along the placement of these electrodes, and the effect is not due to stimulation of specific nerves or muscles by the applied electrical signal. In the present invention, by applying electrical stimulation to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity, a whole-body relaxation effect is achieved, a unique effect of the present invention. Furthermore, it has been shown that the effect persists for a long time even after the supply of the electrical signal has stopped, and this persistence is also a unique effect of the present invention.

[0031] As a result, this embodiment can relieve tension throughout the body, providing a very comfortable feeling of relaxation. Therefore, it is desirable to use it after exercise, as it can be expected to cool down more efficiently and recover from fatigue, and it is also desirable to use it before going to bed, as it can relax the whole body, providing a sense of mental relaxation and helping you get a good night's sleep. [Embodiment 2]

[0032] This embodiment is similar to the main body A1 in that it applies electrical stimulation to the wrist, which is a peripheral part of the limb. However, the applied electrical signal is different; specifically, the electrical signal shown in FIG. 3(b) is used. This electrical signal is composed of multiple pulse groups. In particular, the electrical signal in this embodiment is composed of a first pulse group with gradually increasing output, a second pulse group with a constant output, and a third pulse group with gradually decreasing output. In other words, the first pulse group can be a pulse group in which the amplitude of each pulse gradually increases, or a pulse group including at least a first pulse of a first output and a pulse output after the first pulse with an output not smaller than the first output, or a pulse group including at least a first pulse of a first amplitude and a pulse output after the first pulse with an amplitude larger than the first amplitude. The second pulse group can be a pulse group in which the amplitude of the multiple pulses is constant in the second pulse group, or a pulse group consisting of multiple pulses of a second output, or a pulse group consisting of multiple pulses of a second amplitude. The third pulse group can be defined as a pulse group in which the amplitude of each pulse gradually decreases, or a pulse group including at least a third pulse with a third output and a pulse output after the third pulse with an output not greater than the third output, or a pulse group including at least a third pulse with a third amplitude and a pulse output after the third pulse with an amplitude smaller than the third amplitude. Furthermore, a pulse group consisting of the first pulse group, the second pulse group, and the third pulse group is referred to as the fourth pulse group. The fourth pulse group is repeated at regular intervals over a predetermined period of time, e.g., one hour. Here, the duration of the first pulse group is defined as T1, the duration of the second pulse group as T2, the duration of the third pulse group as T3, and the pause time of the fourth pulse group, i.e., the time interval between the end of the output of the third pulse group and the start of the resumption of the output of the first pulse group, is defined as T4. In this embodiment, the first pulse group and the third pulse group are used together, allowing for applications different from those in the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 4 shows the main body B2 in this embodiment. The main body B2 is almost the same as the main body A1, so a front view is omitted. The same reference numerals as those of the main body A1 are used, so explanations are omitted. The difference between the main body A1 and the main body B2 is that a controller B404 is used.

[0034] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the controller B404. The only difference between the controller B404 and the controller A104 is the waveform generation unit B405, and therefore further explanation will be omitted. The waveform generation unit B405 outputs an electrical signal as shown in FIG. 3(b). In this embodiment, T1 is set to 1.8 seconds, T2 to 3 seconds, and T3 to 1.8 seconds. Other parameters related to the electrical signal, such as frequency, pulse width, and current value, may be the same as those of the main body A1. Therefore, although more pulses than those shown in the figure are actually applied, only a portion of them are used for a schematic illustration in order to clearly explain the pulse groups and for simplicity.

[0035] Although a single set of parameters may be applied to each pulse group, different parameters may be applied to each pulse group. For example, the frequency or pulse width may be controlled differently for each pulse group. Alternatively, parameters such as frequency, amplitude, or pulse width may be changed for each fourth pulse group.

[0036] In the main unit B2, T1 and T3 are set to 1.8 seconds, which is 1.5 seconds or longer. By applying such electrical stimulation, i.e., pulse groups with T1 and T3 of 1 second or longer, 1.2 seconds or longer (at which point the effect begins to be more stable), and preferably 1.5 seconds or longer (at which point the effect is more likely to be reliably achieved), for example, with T1 and T3 of 1.8 seconds, to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity, a whole-body tension effect can be achieved. As described above, in this invention, the electrical signal supplied to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity by a pair of electrodes A102 and B103 causes no or very little muscle contraction along the current, and no muscle contraction occurs. Therefore, it is clear that an effect other than the effect of stimulating specific muscle contractions by the applied electrical signal is achieved. In this invention, applying electrical stimulation to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity produces a unique effect of whole-body tension. It has also been shown that this effect persists for a long time even after the supply of the electrical signal has stopped, and this persistence is also a unique effect of this invention.

[0037] As a result, this embodiment creates a moderate tension throughout the body, providing a very comfortable feeling of tension, which can also provide a sense of refreshment. Therefore, it is effective to use it when waking up in the morning or just before, when tired, before starting exercise, while driving, or before starting or while studying.

[0038] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Below, we present modified examples of the above-described embodiments as other embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and the following modified examples may be used in combination with the above-described main body A1 and main body B2, or at least two of the following modified examples and the above-described embodiment 1 and embodiment 2 may be combined.

[0039] FIG. 6 shows a modified main unit C3. In the main units A1, B2, and others, the controller A104 and controller B404 are worn on the back or palm side of the wrist, so the electrodes A102 and B103 are also on the palm or back side of the wrist. Instead of being on the back and palm sides of the wrist, the electrodes A102 and B103 may be positioned on the right and left sides of the wrist as viewed from the back or palm, as in the main unit C3 of FIG. 6, i.e., sandwiching the wrist from both sides. Alternatively, they may be positioned side by side on the wrist. For example, the electrodes A102 and B103 may be positioned adjacent to each other along the circumferential direction of the wrist on the belt portion A101, or they may be positioned adjacent to each other perpendicular to the circumferential direction, or they may be positioned diagonally relative to the circumferential direction. As described above, because the present invention does not aim to directly contract muscles or stimulate specific acupoints using electrical signals, the present invention allows electrodes to be placed regardless of the direction of the muscles or the location of the acupoints, regardless of the presence or absence of muscles or acupoints, or regardless of the amount of muscle along the current path. Figure 6 shows main body C3, in which the electrode position of main body B2 has been changed, as an example, but this electrode position may also be placed in devices incorporating the present invention that apply current to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their surroundings, including main body A1, and this can also be applied to each main body described below.

[0040] Other modifications are shown below. In each of the above-described embodiments, a single main body is configured to apply either the second pulse group (hereinafter referred to as the "first signal") shown in FIG. 3(a) or the fourth pulse group (hereinafter referred to as the "second signal") shown in FIG. 3(b), which are electrical signals that relieve tension throughout the body. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a single main body may be configured to output both electrical signals. In this case, for example, the first signal may be output when switch A105 is first pressed, and the second signal may be output when switch A105 is pressed again. The output may also be stopped by pressing switch A105 again. That is, the signal may be switched sequentially or the output may be stopped each time switch A105 is pressed.

[0041] Pressing the switch A105 does not necessarily mean simply pressing it, but may also mean double-clicking or long-pressing, and different operation methods may be used, such as double-clicking to switch the signal to be output and long-pressing to start or stop the signal output. Such a configuration is desirable because it can prevent the device from malfunctioning if the switch A105 is accidentally touched.

[0042] Here, when changing the signal to be output, the control unit A202 may be configured so that, for example, the parameters of the first signal are supplied by pressing the switch A105, and the parameters of the second signal are supplied by pressing the switch A105 again to the waveform generation unit A204 and other output circuits, so that the output circuits can output signals such as the first signal and the second signal according to the respective parameters.

[0043] Other variations are shown below. The pulse output used above is 50 μA, but is not limited to this and may be, for example, 40 μA or 100 μA. Alternatively, the output value may be adjusted to obtain the desired effect; for example, a volume function may be provided in the part that controls the operation of the main body, such as controller A104 or controller B404, to adjust the output. The effects described above may vary from person to person, so it is desirable to be able to adjust the output.

[0044] Other variations are shown below. The pulse output used in the above example, for example, the output used for the second pulse group, is a single value of 50 μA, as described above, but the present invention is not limited to this. The output values ​​for the first and second signals may be changed. For example, the first signal may be 50 μA, but the second signal may be 100 μA. Alternatively, the output value for the first and second signals may be changed from 50 μA in increments of four pulse groups. For example, immediately after switch A105 is pressed, the output of the second pulse group in the first four pulse groups may be 50 μA, but the output of the second pulse group in the next four pulse groups may be 52 μA, and thereafter the output value may be gradually changed in increments of four pulses. Alternatively, the output value may be configured to be increased or decreased.

[0045] Other variations are shown below. The pulse output used in the above example is 50 μA for the second pulse group, an output that the human body cannot sense. However, the present invention is not limited to this. An output that allows the electrical stimulation to be sensed at the wrist, but that does not cause muscle contraction or pain (hereinafter referred to as "sensible output"), such as 500 μA, may also be used. Furthermore, both the first and second signals may be sensible outputs, but at least one of them may be sensible. For example, the first signal may be an insensible output and the second signal may be a sensible output, or vice versa. This allows the user to easily determine whether the first or second signal is being used. As described above, setting the current value of the electrical signal to 20 mA or less will not cause muscle contraction, and setting it to a few mA or less will minimize pain. Of course, pain sensitivity depends on the location where the electrical signal is supplied and on individual differences, but setting it to 500 μA as described above is likely to prevent most people from feeling pain unless they have an injury to their wrist.

[0046] Another variation is shown below. The pulse output used in the above example, for example, the output used for the second pulse group, is a constant output as described above, but the present invention is not limited to this. Immediately after the start of output, the output of the second pulse group may be a sensible output, for example, 500 μA. After a certain time has elapsed since the start of output, for example, 30 seconds after the start of output, the output of the second pulse group may be changed to an insensible output, for example, 50 μA. The output change may be, for example, a sudden change from a sensible output to an insensible output, i.e., from 500 μA to 50 μA, or it may be controlled to gradually change from 500 μA to 400 μA, 300 μA, and finally to 50 μA. Since the sensible output is a very weak power that does not cause pain, as described above, it can be used as the second signal. Even if the sensible output using 500 μA is used in combination with an insensible output, the same effect as the insensible output can be obtained if the output is relatively small or for a relatively short time, as with the sensible output, and the effect of the insensible output is not impaired. For example, there are no problems or drawbacks to using sensory output, such as the use of sensory output reducing the effect of insensible output. Therefore, temporarily using sensory output leads to more effective use of the effect of insensible output, as follows:

[0047] When using non-sensory output, the user cannot sense the output and is unable to know that the appropriate output is not being generated due to reasons such as failing to press switch A105 or low battery power, resulting in the user not realizing that the output is not being generated. However, by using sensible output after the start of output as described above, the user can easily know that an electrical signal is being output. Conversely, if a sensible electrical stimulation is not received immediately after the start of output, the user can easily know that the output is not being generated, thereby easily avoiding this problem. For example, the user can easily notice a mistaken switch operation or a dead battery and easily make improvements such as redoing the operation or replacing or charging the battery 203. Furthermore, when only non-sensory output is used, the user cannot feel the electrical stimulation, which can lead to doubts about whether the electrical signal is actually being output, i.e., whether the device is operating normally. However, the temporary sensible electrical stimulation allows the user to easily know that the device is operating normally, and by actually feeling the output, the user can improve its effectiveness.

[0048] The temporary sensory output described above can be used not only immediately after the start of output, but also before the end of output. For example, by switching from the insensitive output to the sensory output 30 seconds before the end of output, the user can be notified that the output will soon end. When the insensitive output is used, there is a problem in that the user cannot know when the output has ended. However, since the sensory output is used just before the end of output, the user can easily know that the output has ended. Furthermore, when switching from the insensitive output to the sensory output, for example, if the insensitive output is 50 μA, it can be changed suddenly from 50 μA to 500 μA, or it can be controlled to gradually change from 50 μA to 100 μA, 200 μA, 300 μA, and finally reach 500 μA.

[0049] The above-described temporary sensory output can be used not only at the start or end of output, but also at both the start and end of output. Alternatively, by periodically using temporary sensory output, the user can be informed of the passage of time as well as that the device is operating normally. For example, a sensory output can be used as the first or second signal every five minutes of output. Furthermore, it is more preferable to change the duration of the sensory output used when subsequent outputs are performed (indicating the passage of time) to the duration of the sensory output used when the output ends, so that the user can easily determine whether the output is ending or simply indicating the passage of time when they feel the sensory stimulus.

[0050] The use of a sensible output at the start or end of output, or periodically for a short period of time, as described above, i.e., a configuration that temporarily uses a sensible output, is more desirable for the following reasons: Although a sensible output does not cause pain to a person, feeling this stimulation for a long period of time does not necessarily cause stress to a person. Therefore, even if a sensible output does not cause pain, it is desirable to limit the use of the sensible output to a short period of time or temporarily, and temporarily using such a sensible output instead of an insensible output is more desirable in that it does not cause stress to the user. As described above, when an insensible output is used, the sensible output can be temporarily used as a notification means to convey information to the user, such as the start and end of electrical signal output and the passage of time.

[0051] Another variation is shown below. In the above, the first signal is the output of only the second pulse group as shown in FIG. 3(a), but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to use an electrical signal as shown in FIG. 3(b), i.e., the fourth pulse group, as the first signal. However, in this case, it is desirable to set T1 and T3 to 1 second or less, 0.8 seconds or less at which a stable effect begins to be obtained, or 0.5 seconds or less at which the effect tends to be more reliably obtained. In this way, by setting T1 and T3 of the fourth pulse group to 1 second or less, the fourth pulse group can be used as the first signal, which is an electrical signal that relieves tension throughout the body.

[0052] Another modification is shown below. In the present invention, a main body F (the external appearance of main body F is the same as main body A1 and main body B2, and is therefore shown in Figures 1 and 4) may be configured to output a fourth pulse group in which T1 and T3 are 1 second or less (for example, 0.3 seconds) as the first signal, and a fourth pulse group in which T1 and T3 are 1 second or more (for example, 1.8 seconds) as the second signal.

[0053] In this case, for example, when switch A105 is pressed for the first time, a fourth group of pulses of 0.3 seconds as T1 and T3 is output as the first signal, and when switch A105 is pressed again, a fourth group of pulses of 1.8 seconds as T1 and T3 is output as the second signal, or the output may be stopped by further pressing switch A105.

[0054] When outputting the first signal and the second signal, a waveform generator F804 capable of outputting both is used, and a controller F801 using the waveform generator F804 is shown in Figure 8. By setting T1 and T3 to, for example, 0.1 seconds or 0.3 seconds, as in the waveform generator F804, it is possible to use the same circuit configuration when outputting the first signal as when generating the second signal. In other words, it is possible to output both the first signal and the second signal with a single output circuit.

[0055] The first and third pulse groups are originally intended to reduce pain caused by a large current passing through the muscles that is strong enough to cause muscle contraction, but even if the current is too weak to cause muscle contraction, if there is a wound or inflammation on the skin, they can also reduce the pain and discomfort caused by the current passing through the affected area rather than the muscle.

[0056] Alternatively, if the skin is wounded or inflamed, even if the output is insensible, the user may feel the applied electrical stimulation, even if they do not feel pain, and the insensible output may act as a sensible output. As mentioned above, even if the user does not feel pain, prolonged sensible stimulation is undesirable because it can cause stress to the user. In this case, using the fourth pulse group as the first signal makes it difficult for the user to sense the applied electrical stimulation, even if the skin is wounded or inflamed. Therefore, it is preferable to use the fourth pulse group as the first signal. In this case, T1 and T3 should be less than 1 second and more realistically 0.1 seconds or longer. The controller F801 may be configured to include a control unit F802 that notifies the waveform generation unit F804 of information indicating that T1 and T3 are, for example, 0.3 seconds when the first signal is used, or information indicating that T1 and T3 are, for example, 1.8 seconds when the first signal is used, and output the first and second signals from the waveform generation unit F804.

[0057] FIG. 7(a) shows another modified main body D4. In the main body A1 or main body B2 described above, the various circuits built into the controller A104 or controller B404 are arranged on the belt A101, but this is not limitative and they may be arranged elsewhere than on the belt A101. For example, the controller D705 may be arranged separately from the main body D4, as shown in the figure. A view from the direction of arrow B in FIG. 7(b) is shown in FIG. 7(a) but is depicted in FIG. 7(b). In this case, the separate controller D705 may be worn around the neck using a neck strap, or may be carried in a pocket. In this case, the controller D705 may be configured to be connected to terminal portions A702 and B703 of a mount portion 701 provided on the belt portion A101 via a cable 704 and a connector 708, so that electrical signals can be supplied to the wrist via electrode A102 connected to terminal portion A702 and electrode B103 connected to terminal portion B702. Note that each terminal portion and electrode are connected by a harness B709 inside the belt portion A101. A switch B706 and an LED-B707 are arranged on the controller D705 and are used in the same way as switch A105 and LED-A106.

[0058] FIG. 9 shows another modified example of a main unit H5. While the above examples are intended to be worn on the wrist, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may be, for example, a ring-shaped device. As an example, a case is shown in which a ring 901 is provided. Electrodes C902 and D903, corresponding to electrodes A102 and B103, are arranged on the ring 901. Electrode C902 is connected to terminal C904 via harness C908, and electrode D903 is connected to terminal D905 via harness D909. Terminals C904 and D905 are connected to cable H907 via connector H906, which is then connected to a main unit H5 equipped with a controller. The controller may be any of the controllers described above. FIG. 9(b) shows a case in which a controller F801 is used. As shown in FIG. 9(C), controller F801 is provided on a bracelet-shaped main unit H5. The main unit H5 is worn on the wrist, and ring 901 is worn like a ring.

[0059] The ring 901 may be made of an insulating material such as resin, or may be made of rubber, silicon, etc. This is a conceptual diagram for explaining the configuration of each part, so although the ring 901 in (a) and the main body H5 in (c) are shown to be the same size, this does not mean that they are the same size.

[0060] FIG. 10 shows a modified example of FIG. 9. While FIG. 9 shows a configuration in which two electrodes are arranged on a ring 901, the present invention is not limited to this configuration as long as it applies current to the extremities or their vicinity. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 10, only one of the two electrodes used to supply a weak current may be arranged on a ring-shaped ring J1001, and the other electrode may be worn elsewhere, such as on the wrist. FIG. 10(a) shows a ring-shaped ring J1001, similar to FIG. 9(a). However, the electrode C902 and harness, etc., in FIG. 9(a) are not arranged on the ring J1001, but are arranged on the main body J6 as electrode A102 and harness E1008, as shown in FIG. 10(c). The main body J6 is composed of a belt portion A101 and an elastic portion A107, and has the same configuration as FIG. 1. The electrode D903 is connected to the terminal D905 via the harness D909, and the terminal D905 is connected to the cable J1007 via the connector J1006, which is then connected to the controller. The device J6 is worn on the wrist, and the ring J1001 is worn like a finger. The ring J1001 is illustrated as being made of an insulating material like the ring 901, but this is not limited to this. The ring may be made of a conductor or highly conductive material, such as platinum or silver, like the ring K1002 in FIG. 1(d). In this case, the electrode 903 and harness D909 are unnecessary, allowing for a simpler configuration. The ring K1002 can be used instead of the ring J1001 in FIG. 1(b). The ring K1002 is connected to the device J6 via the harness E1007 and the terminal D905.

[0061] Figure 11 shows another modified example. While Figures 9 and 10 above show examples in which only one ring-shaped ring 901, ring J1001, or ring K1002 is used, the present invention is not limited to this; for example, a configuration in which multiple rings K1002 are used is also possible. Figure 11 shows a configuration in which two rings K1002 are used. In this figure, a main body K7, which is configured to be able to use multiple rings K1002, is used instead of main body J6, and the two rings K1002, which act as electrodes, are connected by a cable K1107.

[0062] FIG. 12 shows another variation. While the above description assumes that the device is worn on the wrist or finger, the present invention is not limited to this configuration and may be, for example, in the form of a supporter. Main body L8 is shown as an example. Main body L8 has a supporter 1201, on which electrodes E1202 and F1203, corresponding to electrodes A102 and B103, are arranged. Electrodes E1202 and F1203 are connected to a controller via a harness F1208. In the figure, electrodes E1202 and F1203 are arranged to contact the back of the hand. Since harness F1208 is also located inside supporter 1201 and cannot be directly seen from the outside, its position is indicated by a dotted line. The controller may be any of the controllers listed above. FIG. 12(a) shows the case where controller F801 is being used, and main body L8 is worn and used as shown in FIG. 12. Supporter 1201 may be made of any insulating material, such as cotton or other fabric, or leather, rubber, silicone, etc.

[0063] In Figure 12, electrodes E1202 and F1202 are positioned as shown in Figure 12(a), but the present invention is not limited to this. The regions enclosed by dotted lines in Figures 12(b) and 12(c) are desirable locations for placing the electrodes, as they ensure reliable contact with the skin. Hereinafter, each of these desirable electrode placement regions will be referred to as an electrode region. Two of these electrode regions can be selected and one electrode placed in each, or two electrodes can be placed in one of these electrode regions. For example, electrodes can be placed at the base of the thumb and between the base of the little finger and the wrist. Figure 12(b) shows the electrode regions on the back of the hand, and Figure 12(c) shows the electrode regions on the palm.

[0064] Fig. 13 shows another modified example. Fig. 12 shows a configuration in which electrodes are arranged on supporter 1201, but the present invention is not limited to this, and main body M9 may use ring J1001 or ring K1002 as one of the electrodes. Fig. 13 shows a case in which ring K1002 is used instead of electrode E1202 in Fig. 12, but ring K1002 may also be used instead of electrode F1203.

[0065] FIG. 14 shows another modified example. While FIGS. 11 and 12 show examples of a supporter shape for use on the wrist, the present invention is not limited to this, and an example in the form of a glove is shown in FIG. 14. While the above description assumes that the supporter is worn on the wrist or finger, the present invention is not limited to this, and the supporter may be shaped like a glove, for example. Main body N10 is shown as an example. Main body N10 has glove 1401, on which electrodes E1202 and F1203 corresponding to electrodes A102 and B103 are arranged, and electrodes E1202 and F1203 are connected to a controller via harness M1402. The controller may be any of the controllers listed above; the figure shows a case in which controller F801 is used, and main body N10 is worn and used as shown. Like supporter 1201, glove 1401 may be made of any insulating material, such as cotton, leather, rubber, or silicone. When a glove-shaped body such as that shown in Figure 14 is used, the electrode area where the electrodes shown in Figure 12 can be placed extends to the surface of each finger covered by the glove, and electrodes can be placed on each finger, but since there is no need for ring-shaped ring 901, ring J1001, or ring K1002, wearing the electrodes becomes easier.

[0066] Although the above-described embodiments and modifications all show examples in which the main body or electrodes are placed on or near the extremities, such as the wrist or finger, the present invention is not limited to this. The electrodes or main body may not be attached to or near the extremities of the extremities, but may be placed on equipment that comes into contact with the extremities or nearby parts of the human body. For example, the electrodes or main body may be placed on a keyboard or mouse when using a personal computer, a steering wheel, accelerator, or brake when driving a motorcycle or car, or even on a pen or smartphone.

[0067] FIG. 15 shows an example of this. (a) in FIG. 15 shows a case where the device is used as a mouse. The mouse 1501 has a left click button 1502, a right click button 1503, and a body 1504 that the palm of the hand contacts. An electrode G1505 and an electrode H1506 may be disposed on the body 1504. The controller may be any of the controllers described above. For example, a controller F801 may be disposed on the body 1504 and connected to the electrode G1505 and the electrode H1506. The electrodes may be disposed at the proximal end of the body 1504, where the thumb contacts the palm near the wrist, as shown in the figure. Alternatively, the electrode G1505 may be disposed on the right side of the body 1504, where the little finger contacts, so that a current flows through the thumb and little finger via the electrode G1505 and the electrode H1506 disposed on the thumb side. Alternatively, the electrode G1505 and the electrode H1506 may be disposed at the proximal end of the body 1504.

[0068] Instead of electrode G1505, the left click 1502 or right click 1503 may be made of a conductive material, or electrode G1505 may be placed on the left click 1502 or right click 1503 so that current flows through the thumb and index finger and middle finger. Alternatively, electrode H1506 placed on the left click 1502 or right click 1503 and body portion 1504 may be used to supply the first signal current and second signal to the palm and fingers. Electrode H1506 may be placed on the left click 1502, or at least the surface of the left click 1502 may be made conductive, and electrode G1505 may be placed on the right click 1503, or at least the surface of the right click 1503 may be made conductive so that the first signal and second signal flow through the index finger and middle finger. Furthermore, switch A105 and LED A106 may be arranged, for example, as shown in the figure.

[0069] FIG. 15(b) shows an example in which the present invention is applied to a notebook computer. As shown in the figure, electrodes J1514 and K1515 are arranged in front of keyboard area 1512 on the left side of touchpad area 1513, where a mouse pointer is operated, in personal computer 1511, and are connected to a controller arranged inside personal computer 1511. The controller may be any of the controllers described above. For example, controller F801 may be arranged inside personal computer 1511 and connected to electrodes J1514 and K1515. While the electrodes are arranged on the left side of touchpad area 1513 in the figure, this is not a limitation. They may also be arranged on the right side, or on both sides of touchpad area 1513, so that the first signal current and second signal are supplied to the palms of both hands. The electrical signals supplied via electrodes J1514 and K1515 may be controlled by an application installed inside personal computer 1511.

[0070] FIG. 15(c) shows an example in which the present invention is applied to a car steering wheel. As shown in the figure, electrodes L1522 and M1523 are arranged on steering wheel 1521 and connected to a controller arranged inside steering wheel 1521. Furthermore, switch A105 and LED-A106 may be arranged, for example, as shown in the figure. The controller may be any of the controllers described above. For example, controller F801 may be arranged on steering wheel 1521 and connected to electrodes L1522 and M1523. While electrodes L1522 and M1523 are shown on the right side of the steering wheel, the present invention is not limited to this. They may also be arranged on the left side or on both sides. Furthermore, while electrodes L1522 and M1523 are shown on the front side of the steering wheel, the present invention is not limited to this. They may also be arranged on the side, or one may be arranged on the front and the other on the side.

[0071] FIG. 15(d) shows an example of a mobile terminal to which the present invention is applied. As shown in the figure, electrodes P1533 and Q1534 are arranged on both sides of the housing 1532 or display portion 1535 of a smartphone 1531 and are connected to a controller arranged inside the housing 1532. The controller may be any of the controllers described above. For example, controller F801 may be arranged inside the housing 1532 and connected to electrodes P1533 and Q1534. Electrodes P1533 and Q1534 are arranged on the lower half of both sides of the housing 1532, but this is not a limitation. They may also be arranged on the upper half, or on the upper and lower sides of either the right or left side. The electrical signals supplied via electrodes P1533 and Q1534 may be controlled by an application installed on the smartphone 1531.

[0072] In the example of Figure 15, the controller and electrodes may be provided separately. For example, in the case of a mouse, the controller may be placed in a PC to which the mouse is connected, and an application installed in the PC may be used to control the electrical signals supplied to the limbs or their vicinity via the electrodes. In the case of a steering wheel, the controller may be placed in, for example, the instrument panel instead of the steering wheel, and the electrical signals supplied to the human body may be controlled using, for example, the user interface of a car navigation system.

[0073] In the above Figures 9 to 15, a weak, imperceptible current is used as the electrical signal to be supplied, so the user does not feel any pain or discomfort, and furthermore, the user does not feel that a current is being supplied. Therefore, even when the user is driving, doing office work, or performing delicate manual work, the user is not affected at all by the supplied electrical signal, and can continue these tasks easily and comfortably while the electrical signal is being supplied, without experiencing any stress from the electrical signal.

[0074] Furthermore, even during these tasks, drivers can use the first and second signals to constantly refresh or relax while continuing to work, which not only improves work efficiency but also allows them to continue working safely. For example, if driving is to take place over a long period of time or at night, drivers can use the second signal to constantly refresh themselves while driving, and if there is traffic congestion, drivers can use the first signal to drive while relaxing, allowing them to continue driving safely. If using a computer for a long period of time or at night, drivers can use the second signal to constantly refresh themselves while working, or the first signal to relax while working, allowing them to continue working without error and without strain.

[0075] In the above-described embodiments and various modifications, the electrical signal used is a pulse group using a rectangular wave, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a triangular wave may be used instead of a rectangular wave, an impulse train using multiple impulses, or a sine wave may be used instead of a pulse group. Furthermore, the electrical signal may have positive and negative amplitudes, or may be a unipolar waveform with only positive or negative amplitude. Furthermore, the electrical signal is not limited to an electrical signal with equal positive and negative amplitudes, and may have different positive and negative amplitudes, different shapes of the positive and negative waveforms, or an offset waveform.

[0076] Another modification is shown. In each of the above-described embodiments and their modifications, electrical stimulation is applied to the peripheral parts of the limbs or their vicinity, such as the wrist or ankle, but different effects can be obtained by varying the applied electrical signal, specifically by lowering the pulse frequency. This electrical signal may be, for example, the second pulse group as schematically shown in FIG. 3(a) or the fourth pulse group as shown in FIG. 3(b). However, in this modification, the second pulse group is output as the electrical signal, and the frequency is very low, for example, 5 Hz. Such an electrical signal with a very low frequency (hereinafter referred to as "ultra-low frequency") is used for purposes other than those of the first and second embodiments.

[0077] The main body P11 according to this embodiment may have the same external appearance as the main body A1 or the main body B2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. However, the main body P11 includes a controller P1604, as shown in FIG. 16, and includes a control unit P1602 and a waveform generating unit P1604.

[0078] The waveform generation unit P1604 generates a second group of pulses with an output electrical signal frequency of 5 Hz and an amplitude of 50 μA. By applying such electrical stimulation, i.e., a group of pulses with an ultra-low frequency of approximately 5 Hz, near the periphery of the limbs, a whole-body effect can be achieved. Specifically, a whole-body autonomic nervous system regulation effect can be expected. As described above, in the present invention, muscle contraction is not generated, and therefore the effect of the present invention is not due to stimulation of specific muscles in the current path. In the present invention, by applying electrical stimulation to the periphery of the limbs or their vicinity, an effect of acting on the autonomic nervous system and regulating the balance of the autonomic nervous system can be expected, which is a unique effect of the present invention. Autonomic nervous system disorders can cause various physical conditions, such as insomnia, drowsiness, fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. Regulating the balance of the autonomic nervous system is expected to improve these conditions and also alleviate allergy symptoms.

[0079] Although the parameter for the second pulse group in this modified example is 5 Hz, the present invention is not limited to this. A low frequency is desirable as an ultra-low frequency that can be expected to improve autonomic balance, and specifically, an effect begins to appear at 20 Hz or less. At 10 Hz or less, the influence of individual differences is less, and at 8 Hz or less, the most significant effect tends to be obtained. Therefore, in this embodiment, a frequency of 5 Hz is used.

[0080] The lower the frequency of the electrical stimulation used, the better; for example, direct current (DC) may be acceptable. However, with DC, where the current flows continuously, the conductivity decreases when the electrodes used deteriorate or when dirt, dust, or impurities are generated or attached, making the current more likely to concentrate, and this current concentration tends to persist for long periods of time. Even with a current as weak as 50 μA, prolonged current concentration can cause skin burns, discoloration, blisters, and other problems, making it undesirable. Therefore, in this modified example, an electrical signal containing an AC component rather than a DC current is applied, thereby avoiding or mitigating the continuation of current concentration and avoiding the above-mentioned problems caused by current concentration.

[0081] The frequency of the AC component that is required does not necessarily have to be DC, that is, it does not have to be 0 Hz; for example, a frequency of about 0.1 Hz is undesirable as it tends to act substantially as DC, and is preferably 0.5 Hz or higher, and ideally 1 Hz or higher. Ultimately, it is thought that an ultra-low frequency is most preferably between 1 Hz and 8 Hz, and in this embodiment, 5 Hz is used as the ultra-low frequency.

[0082] Although the above examples are examples of use on the human body, the present invention can also be applied to other living organisms (hereinafter simply referred to as "living organisms"). Examples of living organisms include those kept in zoos, such as lions and giraffes, and those kept as pets in ordinary households, such as dogs and cats. The present invention can also be applied to livestock, such as cows, horses, pigs, chickens, goats, and sheep. Here, we will use livestock as an example. Livestock are often kept in relatively small spaces, such as barns in the case of cows. Stress due to lack of exercise, being confined to a small space, or other factors, or tension due to other factors, can have a significant impact on their growth and health, the quantity and quality of milk in the case of dairy cows, and the meat quality in the case of beef cattle.

[0083] Therefore, by using the device according to the present invention on a living body, for example, a cow, it is possible to alleviate stress and tension and improve the quality of milk and meat. It is possible to use the main body A, the main body B, and modifications thereof. However, it is necessary to change the size of the belt part A101 to suit the living body, for example, so that it can be used on the toes of a cow, or to change the material to increase its strength.

[0084] The main body as described above does not require a particularly large circuit configuration or battery, and the body does not feel any stress due to its size or weight. Not only is any additional stress caused by wearing it quickly eliminated, but the body cannot sense the above-mentioned imperceptible output, so there is no awareness of the electrical stimulation being given, and there is no additional stress caused by using a device incorporating this invention.

[0085] However, since the living organism will be bothered by the unfamiliar equipment attached at first, and it is anticipated that the organism may lick or bite it, and the switches may be unintentionally pressed or broken, it is thought that measures such as covering the switches with a cover or increasing the strength of the controller and belt part are necessary. Alternatively, it would be even more preferable to eliminate the switches from the main body and configure it for wireless remote control from outside, as this would prevent the switches from being unintentionally operated or broken by the living organism licking or biting.

[0086] When using the device of the present invention on a living body, the electrodes used, such as the above-mentioned electrode A102 and electrode B103, may not be suitable for use as is. The limbs of a living body are usually covered with hair, preventing sufficient current from being supplied to the limbs. Therefore, rather than using electrodes made of conductive resin or metal, it is desirable to use highly elastic materials, such as conductive rubber or conductive fiber, for electrode A102 and electrode B103, so that sufficient current can be supplied from the electrodes to the limbs. Alternatively, a highly viscous conductive gel can be applied to the surface of electrode A102 and electrode B103 to ensure sufficient current is supplied to the living body's limbs.

[0087] By using the device of the present invention on a living body, the following effects can be expected. The following effects can be expected not only individually but also as multiple effects simultaneously. One effect is the relief of tension. The cause of tension is not limited to a specific reason, and examples include tension caused by stress due to being confined in a small cage or indoors. Other examples include stress caused by weather such as abnormally low or high temperatures, typhoons, strong winds, prolonged rain, or dryness, and tension caused by vigilance due to construction work being carried out nearby. Other examples include tension caused by changes in physical condition due to poor health or pregnancy.

[0088] For the above-described tension relief, the first signal can be supplied to the limbs of a living organism using main body A1, main body E, or main body F, or a device capable of outputting pulses equivalent thereto, to relieve tension in the living organism, relieve stress, and improve or maintain the living organism's health, thereby maintaining and managing the living organism's physical condition. Alternatively, it is effective to predict the occurrence of tension or to supply these first signals to the limbs of a living organism in advance to individuals who are prone to tension. Furthermore, it is also effective to supply the first signal to overactive individuals to suppress their activity. For example, supplying the first signal to injured or ill individuals to suppress their activity can be expected to have the effect of accelerating the healing of the injury or illness.

[0089] The use of the device of the present invention on living organisms can be expected to have other beneficial effects. This includes promoting activity. For example, elderly organisms experience reduced activity levels, leading to inactivity and muscle weakness, joint disorders, and visceral diseases. Similarly, animals in zoos are confined to cages and regularly access food, resulting in fewer opportunities for exercise and insufficient exercise. Lack of exercise increases the likelihood of illness and injury. Therefore, by using Main Unit B2, Main Unit E, or Main Unit F, or a device capable of outputting equivalent pulses, a second signal can be delivered to the limbs of the living organism, refreshing it and increasing its activity and vitality, thereby eliminating inactivity and maintaining and managing the organism's physical condition. For example, in the case of cows, pigs, sheep, and goats, this can also be used to maintain and manage meat quality and improve milk quality and production. By supplying a second signal to a living organism with reduced activity and activity to increase activity, for example, by preventing muscle deterioration in elderly organisms and maintaining strong muscles, or by improving lack of exercise, it becomes possible to prevent injuries and illnesses even in elderly organisms and maintain health.

[0090] The device of the present invention can be used to not only manage the health of living organisms using the first and second signals, but also to control the quality of livestock. For example, the second signal can be used to increase the activity level of beef cattle, thereby increasing the proportion of lean meat, or the first signal can be used frequently to limit the activity level of beef cattle and adjust the meat's toughness and fat content to control the meat's quality, for example, to increase the proportion of tender, or so-called marbling. In this case, the livestock's movement is not forcibly restricted or forced to exercise, so there is no stress on the livestock.

[0091] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides the following means: That is, the electric current stimulation device of the present invention is a current stimulation device having a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on a main body and an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, wherein the output circuit outputs an electric signal that does not cause pain to the user, and when the main body is arranged on or near the peripheral part of the user's limb, the first electrode and the second electrode apply the electric signal to or near the peripheral part of the limb. (2) Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device of the present invention is an electric current stimulation device in which a first electrode and a second electrode are placed at a position that touches the peripheral part of the user's limb or its vicinity, and is characterized in that the first electrode and the second electrode supply an electrical signal that the user cannot feel to the peripheral part of the limb or its vicinity. (3) Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device of the present invention is a device used by the user, characterized in that it includes the electrical stimulation device described in (2) above. The current stimulation device of the present invention includes a main body that is worn by a user in a ring-shaped state and has a belt portion and an expandable and contractible portion, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit, the first electrode, and the second electrode, a control unit that controls the electric signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit, and outputs a first signal used to relieve tension throughout the body of the user, wherein the output circuit outputs an electric signal having an amplitude of 40 μA to 500 μA as the first signal, which is an electric signal that does not cause pain to the user and does not cause muscle contraction, and the output circuit outputs, as the electric signal, an electric signal having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity, and the first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases and the second pulse group whose amplitude is constant are output. a fourth pulse group having a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained constant and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, and the fourth pulse group and a period during which an electrical signal is not output are output repeatedly as a set; when the main body is worn on the wrist of the user, if the first electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist, the second electrode is positioned on the opposite side of the wrist with respect to the first electrode, and the first signal is supplied to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned opposite to the wrist; and when outputting the first signal, the control unit notifies the output circuit of information indicating the durations of the first pulse group and the third pulse group, each of which is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and outputs the fourth pulse group, which is output based on the durations, to the wrist as the first signal.

[0092] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention has the following means: The electric current stimulation device of the present invention comprises a main body having a belt part and an expandable stretchable part and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit, the first electrode and the second electrode, a control unit that controls the electric signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit, and outputs a first signal used to apply tension to the entire body of the user, wherein the output circuit outputs as the first signal an electric signal having an amplitude of 40 μA to 500 μA that does not cause pain to the user and does not cause muscle contraction, and the output circuit outputs as the electric signal an electric signal having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity, and the first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases and the second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained constant are output. and a fourth pulse group having a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained constant and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, the fourth pulse group and a period during which no electrical signal is output are output repeatedly as a set, and the main body, when worn on the user's wrist, has the first electrode positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist and the second electrode positioned on the opposite side of the wrist relative to the first electrode, thereby supplying the first signal to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned opposite to the wrist, and when outputting the first signal, the control unit notifies the output circuit of information indicating the durations of the first pulse group and the third pulse group, each of which is 1.2 seconds or more, and outputs the fourth pulse group output based on the durations as the first signal to the wrist.Furthermore, in the electrical stimulation device of the present invention, the output of the second pulse group is 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less, as the electrical signal that does not cause pain to the user or induce muscle contraction. Furthermore, in the electrical stimulation device of the present invention, the first electrode and the second electrode are disposed on the belt portion, and the harness is disposed inside the belt portion. Furthermore, (1) in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention has the following means: That is, the electric current stimulation device of the present invention comprises a main body having a belt part and an expandable stretchable part and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit, the first electrode, and the second electrode, a control unit that controls the electric signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit, and outputs a first signal used to apply tension to the entire body of the user and a second signal used to apply relaxation to the entire body of the user, wherein the output circuit outputs, as the first signal or the second signal, an electric signal having an amplitude of 40 μA to 500 μA that does not cause the user to feel pain or to cause muscle contraction, and the output circuit outputs, as the electric signal, an electric signal having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity, and a fourth pulse group having a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained constant, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases. and repeatedly outputs a set of the fourth pulse group and a period during which the fourth pulse group is not output, and when the main body is worn on the wrist of the user, if the first electrode is positioned on the back side or the palm side of the wrist, the second electrode is positioned on the opposite side of the wrist with respect to the first electrode, thereby supplying the first signal to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned opposite to the wrist, and when outputting the first signal, the control unit notifies the output circuit of information indicating durations of the first pulse group and the third pulse group, each of which is 1.2 seconds or more, and outputs the fourth pulse group output based on the durations as the first signal, and when outputting the second signal, the control unit notifies the output circuit of information indicating durations of the first pulse group and the third pulse group, each of which is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and outputs the fourth pulse group output based on the durations to the wrist as the second signal. Furthermore, (1) in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides the following means: That is, the electric current stimulation device of the present invention comprises a main body having a belt part and an expandable and contractible part and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electric signal, a harness that connects the output circuit, the first electrode and the second electrode, a control unit that controls the electric signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit, and outputs a first signal used to apply tension to the entire body of the user and a second signal used to apply relaxation to the entire body of the user, wherein the output circuit outputs, as the first signal or the second signal, an electric signal having an amplitude of 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less, which is an electric signal that does not cause pain to the user and does not cause muscle contraction, and the output circuit outputs, as the electric signal, an electric signal having an amplitude of positive or negative polarity, and a fourth pulse having a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained constant, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases. and outputs an electrical signal that repeats a set of the fourth pulse group and a period during which the fourth pulse group is not output, and when the main body is worn on the wrist of the user, if the first electrode is positioned on the back side or the palm side of the wrist, the second electrode is positioned on the opposite side of the wrist with respect to the first electrode, thereby supplying the first signal to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode that are positioned opposite to the wrist, and when outputting the first signal, the control unit notifies the output circuit of information indicating the durations of the first pulse group and the third pulse group, each of which is 1.2 seconds or more, and outputs the fourth pulse group that is output based on the durations as the first signal, and when outputting the second signal, the control unit notifies the output circuit of information indicating the durations of the first pulse group and the third pulse group, each of which is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and outputs the fourth pulse group that is output based on the durations as the second signal to the wrist. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1 Main unit A 2 Main Unit B 3 Main body C 4 Main Unit D 5 Main unit H 6 Main body J 7 Main Unit K 8 Main body L 9 Body M 10 Main Unit N 11 Main body P 101 Belt A 102 Electrode A 103 Electrode B 104 Controller A 105 Switch A 106 LED-A 107 Telescopic part A 108 Harness A 201 User IF Department 202 Control Unit A 203 Battery 204 Waveform generator A 206 Power supply section 207 Timer 208 Terminal A 209 Terminal B 404 Controller B 405 Waveform generator B 701 Mounting section 702 Terminal section A 703 Terminal part B 704 Cable 705 Controller D 706 Switch B 707 LED-B 708 Connector 709 Harness B 801 Controller F 802 Control Unit F 804 Waveform generator F 901 Ring 902 Electrode C 903 Electrode D 904 Terminal section C 905 Terminal part D 906 Connector H 907 Cable H 908 Harness C 909 Harness D 1001 Ring J 1002 Ring K 1006 Connector J 1007 Cable J 1008 Harness E 1107 Cable K 1201 Supporter 1202 Electrode E 1203 Electrode F 1208 Harness F 1401 Gloves 1402 Harness M 1501 Mouse 1502 left click 1503 Right Click 1504 Body 1505 Electrode G 1506 Electrode H 1511 PC 1512 Keyboard Area 1513 Touchpad Area 1514 Electrode J 1515 Electrode K 1521 Handle 1522 Electrode L 1523 Electrode M 1531 smartphones 1532 Case 1533 Electrode P 1534 Electrode Q 1535 Display part 1602 Control Unit P 1604 Controller P

Claims

1. a main body having a belt portion and an expandable stretchable portion and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state; a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the body; an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal; a harness connecting the output circuit to the first electrode and connecting the output circuit to the second electrode; a control unit that controls the electrical signal; a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit; A current stimulation device that outputs the electrical signal that regulates the autonomic nerves of the user, The electrical signal output by the output circuit is an electrical signal consisting of a pulse group having a positive or negative amplitude, and has an amplitude of 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less, which is an amplitude of the electrical signal that does not cause pain to the user or cause muscle contraction, An electrical signal having a frequency of 20 Hz or less and an amplitude of at least one of positive and negative polarity, When the main body is worn on the user's wrist, the first electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist, and the second electrode is positioned on the opposite side of the wrist from the first electrode, thereby supplying the electrical signal to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned opposite the wrist.

2. a main body having a belt portion and an expandable stretchable portion and worn by a user in a ring-shaped state; a first electrode and a second electrode disposed on the body; an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal; a harness connecting the output circuit to the first electrode and connecting the output circuit to the second electrode; a control unit that controls the electrical signal; a power supply unit that supplies power from a battery to the output circuit and the control unit; A current stimulation device that outputs the electrical signal that regulates the autonomic nerves of the user, The electrical signal output by the output circuit is an electrical signal consisting of a pulse group having a positive or negative amplitude, and has an amplitude of 40 μA or more and 500 μA or less, which is an amplitude of the electrical signal that does not cause pain to the user or cause muscle contraction, An electrical signal having a frequency of 20 Hz or less and an amplitude of at least one of positive and negative polarity, When the main body is worn on the user's wrist, the first electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist, and the second electrode is positioned on the back or palm side of the wrist relative to the first electrode, thereby supplying the electrical signal to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode positioned adjacent to the wrist.

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