Current stimulation device

Abstract

We provide an electrical stimulation device that gives the entire body a feeling of relaxation and refreshment. [Solution] The device has a main body comprising a first electrode, a second electrode, an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal, a control unit, and a power supply unit, and outputs a first signal as an electrical signal from the output circuit, wherein the first signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user, and is a pulse group consisting of a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained at a constant level, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and the amplitude of the second pulse group is 50 μA or more and 100 μA or less, and the device is characterized in that when the main body is attached to the extremities of the limbs of the user's body, the first electrode and the second electrode come into contact with the body and the first signal is supplied to the extremities using the first electrode and the second electrode, thereby providing tension relief to the entire body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for applying an electrical signal for current stimulation for transcutaneous stimulation to the limbs, particularly to the periphery or the vicinity thereof, by a current, or a current stimulation device.

Background Art

[0002] Techniques for applying an electrical signal to the human body have been put into practical use. Most commonly, as a transcutaneous stimulation device by a current, EMS which improves muscle output by causing muscle contraction is known. EMS is an abbreviation for Electrical Muscle Stimulation, and is a device that efficiently performs muscle strength training by electrically stimulating motor nerves from the outside to contract or release the contraction of the muscles connected to those nerves. It is a device that applies a load of intensity to muscle tissue, microscopically and temporarily destroys muscle fibers, and then the destroyed muscle fibers are repaired as stronger muscle tissue to hypertrophy the muscles and improve muscle output to recover the body's motor function disorder. On the other hand, for example, as in Patent Document 1, a technique has been proposed in which a weak current characteristic of muscle is added to temporarily improve or decrease muscle output.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] EMS uses strong electrical stimulation to contract muscles, enabling efficient muscle training and promoting muscle hypertrophy. As a result, muscle output improves, but muscle output cannot be improved until the muscles have hypertrophied. Furthermore, muscle relaxation can only be achieved by repeatedly contracting and releasing the muscles, and conventional electrical stimulation devices could not directly induce muscle relaxation.

[0005] On the other hand, while Patent Document 1 allows for muscle strengthening and relaxation of a specific muscle by attaching electrodes to that muscle and applying electrical stimulation with controlled ramp-up or ramp-down times, it was not possible to achieve effects on multiple muscles at once. Furthermore, it was not possible to provide a sense of relaxation or refreshment to the entire body. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention employs the following means. The device has a main body comprising an output circuit that outputs electrical signals to a first electrode and a second electrode, a control unit that controls the electrical signals, and a power supply unit that supplies power to the output circuit and the control unit, and outputs a first signal as the electrical signal from the output circuit, wherein the first signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user, and is a pulse group composed of a plurality of pulses, comprising a fourth pulse group including a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained at a constant level, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group in the fourth pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and the amplitude of the second pulse group is 50 μA or more and 100 μA or less, and the device is characterized in that when the main body is attached to the extremities of the limbs of the user's body, the first electrode and the second electrode come into contact with the body and the first signal is supplied to the extremities using the first electrode and the second electrode, thereby providing tension relief to the entire body.

[0007] (2) Furthermore, the apparatus of the present invention is characterized in that the peripheral part of the limb of the human body is the wrist. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present invention provides an electrical stimulation device that can provide a feeling of refreshment and relaxation throughout the entire body by applying weak electrical stimulation to the extremities or their vicinity. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram of the main body A1 according to the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram of the controller according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the output waveform according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram of the main body B2 according to the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram of the controller according to the present invention. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 8] This is a block diagram of the controller according to the present invention. [Figure 9] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 10] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 11] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 12] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 13] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 14] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Figure 15] This is an explanatory diagram of another example according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

Example

[0010] FIG. 1(a) shows the outer side view of the main body A1 of the current stimulation device according to the present invention. The main body A1 consists of a belt portion A101, a telescopic portion A107, and a controller A104. On the belt portion A101, an electrode A102 which is the first electrode contacting the human body and an electrode B103 which is the second electrode are arranged, and these electrodes are connected to the controller A104 by a harness A108 arranged inside the belt portion A101. Since the harness A108 is not visible from the outside, only its position is shown by a dotted line. FIG. (b) of the same figure is a front view of the main body A1 seen from the direction of arrow A in FIG. (a).

[0011] The telescopic portion A107 is made of, for example, silicon rubber and is easy to expand and contract. By expanding and contracting the telescopic portion A107, the main body portion is worn on the limbs, for example, the wrist. In the worn state, the electrode A102 and the electrode B103 can contact the skin of the wrist and apply the electric stimulation described later. The part where the main body A1 is worn is not limited to the wrist, and it may be the ankle. Wearing on the peripheral part or its vicinity is desirable. In particular, wearing on the wrist or ankle is easy in terms of ease of wearing, difficulty of coming off, and handling during use. In this embodiment, the main body A1 will be described as being worn on the wrist. The telescopic portion A107 is not limited to silicon rubber and can also be natural rubber or urethane rubber.

[0012] The main body A1 is worn such that the controller A104 is on the back of the hand side of the wrist, the electrode A102 contacts the back of the hand side of the wrist, and the electrode B103 contacts the palm side of the wrist. Incidentally, conversely, the controller A104 may be worn on the palm side, the electrode A102 may contact the palm side of the wrist, and the electrode B103 may contact the back of the hand side of the wrist.

[0013] The main body A1 is annularly formed by the belt part A101 and the telescopic part A107. However, regardless of the telescopic part A107, the belt part can be made annular with silicon rubber, natural rubber, etc., and the main body A1 can be configured to be worn on the wrist or the like by the expansion and contraction of the entire belt part. Here, the annular shape does not have to be a circle. For example, it can be an ellipse, a triangle, a rectangle, or a polygon, or any other shape as long as it can be properly worn on the wrist.

[0014] The belt part can be made into a strip shape instead of an endless annular shape, and fixing means such as a surface fastener, a button, or a hook can be attached to both ends. For example, it can be wound around the wrist and fixed with a surface fastener to form an annular shape. Or, even when worn, it does not have to be endless and can have a release end. For example, an elastic leaf spring or the like can be used to form a strip-shaped belt part with a part being the release end, and the elasticity of the leaf spring can facilitate wearing and enable the electrode to easily and surely contact the skin.

[0015] The electrodes A102 and B103 are made of, for example, a solid gel with high conductivity or low electrical resistance. However, it is not limited to this. As long as the electrode fits the part where the main body A1 is worn and can appropriately apply an electrical signal to the skin, it can be a metal such as a formed stainless steel plate, or a conductive cloth using silver wire or the like, or a conductive paint. Or it can be a conductive rubber. For example, a conductive rubber with conductivity can be obtained by mixing a conductive material represented by carbon powder with silicon rubber or urethane rubber as the base material. And a conductive rubber with conductivity can be used.

[0016] The controller A104 is provided with a switch A105 and an LED - A106, and can control the electrical signals applied to the electrodes A102 and B103. When the switch A105 is pressed, the LED - A106 lights up, and the electrical stimulation described later is supplied to the vicinity of the peripheral part of the limbs, in this embodiment, to the wrist, by the electrodes A102 and B103.

[0017] Figure 2 shows a block diagram of controller A104. Controller A104 is composed of at least some or all of the following: control unit A202, output circuit waveform generation unit A204, timer 207, user IF unit 201, power supply unit 206, battery 203, etc. In this embodiment, controller A104 will be described as being composed of all of these components.

[0018] The control unit A202 incorporates a CPU and memory, as well as an interface unit for connecting to various parts. It is connected to and controls the waveform generation unit A204, which generates electrical signals to provide current stimulation; the timer 207, which manages the output for a set period of time; and the user IF unit 201, which is connected to the switch A105 and LED-A106.

[0019] The power supplied from the battery 203 is controlled by the power supply unit 206 to a predetermined constant voltage value, for example, 5V, and supplied to each part via the control unit A202.

[0020] After the user attaches the main unit A1 to their wrist, when they press the switch A105, 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, as 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.

[0021] The control unit A202 may read the parameters of the electrical signal to be generated from a memory that is part of the control unit A202, or from a memory provided outside the control unit A202, and supply them to the waveform generation unit A204, and the waveform generation unit A204 may output an electrical signal according to those parameters.

[0022] The electrical signal output by the waveform generation unit A204 is supplied to electrode A102, which is connected to terminal A208 by harness A108, and electrode B103, which is connected to terminal B209 by harness A108. Synchronized with the instruction to output to the waveform generation unit A204, the timer 207 is instructed to start timing, and the timer 207 starts measuring a predetermined time, for example, 15 minutes or 1 hour. Information regarding the timer 207's measurement, such as the elapsed time, is fed back to the control unit A202, and in response to this feedback, the control unit A202 stops the output of the electrical signal by instructing the waveform generation unit A204 to stop generating the electrical signal, or by stopping the power supply to the waveform generation unit A204.

[0023] The control unit A202 instructs the user IF unit 201 to light up LED-A106 in conjunction with the power supply to the waveform generation unit A204, and the user IF unit 201 supplies power to LED-A106 to light it up. Conversely, when the control unit A202 stops the power supply to the waveform generation unit A204 or instructs the generation of electrical signals to stop, it instructs the user IF unit 201 to turn off LED-A106, and the user IF unit 201 stops the power supply to LED-A106 to turn it off.

[0024] As for battery 203, since the main unit A1 uses a weak current, a relatively small capacity battery can be used, such as a button-type battery. Alternatively, a lithium-ion battery could be used. A rechargeable battery, like a standard battery, would also be acceptable. Alternatively, the configuration could be designed to connect to a DC power source using a household outlet instead of battery 203.

[0025] Figure 3 schematically shows the electrical signals supplied to the limbs by the present invention. In Figure 3, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the current value. If a collection of multiple pulses is called a pulse group, then in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 3(a), a second pulse group consisting of multiple pulses of a constant amplitude is used, and after a period of time (T4) in which no electrical signal is output, the second pulse group is output again, and this is repeated. In Figure 3, the vertical axis represents the current value, and in this specification, the term amplitude is used to mean the amplitude of the current value, but the present invention is not limited to this, and amplitude also means the amplitude of the current value, voltage value, or power related to the pulse, and amplitude is not limited to the amplitude of current, voltage, or power.

[0026] The second pulse group described above is output as an example with a frequency of 50 Hz, a pulse width of 200 μsec, and an output of 50 μA. Therefore, although more pulses are actually applied than those shown in the diagram, only a portion of them are shown for the sake of clarity and simplicity in explaining the pulse group.

[0027] In this embodiment, the pulse used is an output that the human body cannot perceive as electrical stimulation (hereinafter referred to as "unresponsive output"). Generally, when the current value exceeds 20 mA, pain caused by the current is more likely to occur. As can be seen from Figure 8-20 on page 242 of the original EBM Physical Therapy, 2nd edition (Ishiyaku Publishers, Inc.), an output of 20 mA or more is required to cause muscle contraction, and conversely, if it is less than 20 mA, although the presence of an electrical signal may be felt, muscle contraction is unlikely to occur. Furthermore, by setting it to around 50 μA as in this embodiment, not only is muscle contraction usually not possible, but unless there are special conditions, a person usually cannot feel that an electrical signal is being supplied, and of course, will not feel any pain caused by the electrical signal. In this embodiment, by applying an electrical signal set to the above parameters to the vicinity of the extremities using only a single pair of electrodes, tension is relieved throughout the body, and a pleasant feeling of relaxation can be obtained. Therefore, use after exercise is desirable as it can be expected to provide a more efficient cool-down, or use before going to sleep is also desirable. [Examples]

[0028] In this embodiment, the application of electrical stimulation to the wrist, which is the peripheral part of the limb, is the same as in the main body A1 described above, but the applied electrical signal is different, specifically, an electrical signal as shown in Figure 3(b) is used. This electrical signal consists of multiple pulse groups. In particular, the electrical signal in this embodiment consists of a first pulse group whose output gradually increases, a second pulse group whose output is maintained at a constant level, and a third pulse group whose output gradually decreases. In other words, the first pulse group can be described as a pulse group in which the amplitude of each pulse constituting the pulse group gradually increases, or a pulse group that includes at least a first pulse of the first output and a pulse output after the first pulse with an output greater than the first output, or a pulse group that includes at least a first pulse with a first amplitude and a pulse output after the first pulse with an amplitude not less than the first amplitude. The second pulse group can be described as a pulse group in which the amplitude of multiple pulse groups is constant in the second pulse group, or a pulse group composed of multiple pulses of a second output, or a pulse group composed of multiple pulses of a second amplitude. The third pulse group is a pulse group in which the amplitude of each pulse constituting the pulse group gradually decreases, or a pulse group that includes at least a third pulse of a third output and a pulse output after the third pulse with an output not greater than the third output, or a pulse group that includes at least a third pulse of a third amplitude and a pulse output after the third pulse with an amplitude smaller than the third amplitude. Furthermore, the pulse group composed of the first pulse group, the second pulse group and the third pulse group is called the fourth pulse group. The fourth pulse group is repeated at regular time intervals over a predetermined time, for example, 1 hour. Here, the duration of the first pulse group is T1, the duration of the second pulse group is T2, and so on. Let T3 be the duration of the 3-pulse group, and T4 be the pause time of the 4th pulse group, i.e., the time interval from the end of output of the 3rd pulse group until the start of output of the 1st pulse group again. In this embodiment, the 1st pulse group and the 3rd pulse group are used in combination for a different purpose than that of Embodiment 1.

[0029] Figure 4 shows the main unit B2 in this embodiment. Since the main unit B2 has the same appearance as the main unit A1, the front view is omitted. The same reference numerals as those used in the main unit A1 are used, so their explanation is omitted. The difference between the main unit A1 and the main unit B2 is that the controller B404 is used in the latter.

[0030] Figure 5 is a block diagram of controller B404. Controller B404 differs from controller A104 only in the waveform generation unit B504, so further explanation is omitted. The waveform generation unit B504 outputs electrical signals as shown in Figure 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 signals, such as frequency, pulse width, and current value, can be the same as those of main unit A1. Therefore, although more pulses are actually applied than those shown in the figure, only a portion of them are used to schematically represent the pulse group for clarity and simplicity.

[0031] Furthermore, while a set of parameters may be applied to each pulse group, different parameters may also be applied to each pulse group. For example, the frequency and pulse width may be controlled differently for each pulse group. Alternatively, parameters such as frequency, amplitude, and pulse width may be changed at the level of the fourth pulse group.

[0032] In the B2 unit, T1 and T3 are set to 1.8 seconds, which is 1.5 seconds or longer. By applying such electrical stimulation, i.e., pulses with T1 and T3 set to 1 second or longer, 1.2 seconds or longer for more stable effects to begin to be obtained, and preferably 1.5 seconds or longer for a more reliable effect, for example, pulses with T1 and T3 set to 1.8 seconds, to the extremities or their vicinity, a moderate sense of tension can be obtained throughout the body, and this tension can provide a pleasant feeling of refreshment. Therefore, it is desirable to use it upon waking in the morning, when feeling fatigued, or before starting exercise.

[0033] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Other embodiments are shown below, which are variations of each of the above embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and the following variations may be used in combination with the above-described main body A1 or main body B2, or at least two of the following variations or the above-described embodiments 1 or 2 may be combined.

[0034] Figure 6 shows a modified example, main body C3. In the above examples 1 and 2, controller A104 and controller B404 are attached to the back of the wrist or the palm side, so electrodes A102 and B103 are also on the palm side or back of the wrist. However, electrodes A102 and B103 may be positioned on the right and left sides of the wrist toward the back of the hand or palm, as in main body C3 in Figure 6, that is, they may be positioned to sandwich the wrist from both sides. Alternatively, they may be positioned side by side on the wrist. For example, in the belt portion A101, electrodes A102 and B103 may be positioned adjacent to each other along the circumferential direction of the wrist, or they may be positioned adjacent to each other perpendicular to the circumferential direction, or they may be positioned diagonally to the circumferential direction. As such, regarding the arrangement of electrodes, since the present invention does not aim to directly induce muscle contraction or stimulation of specific acupoints by electrical signals, the electrodes can be arranged regardless of the direction of the muscles or the location of acupoints, or regardless of the presence or absence of muscles or acupoints, or regardless of the amount of muscle along the current path. Figure 6 shows, as an example, main unit C3 with the electrode position of main unit B2 changed, but the electrode positions may be arranged in the same way in devices that apply the present invention to the extremities of the limbs or their surroundings, including main unit A1, and this can also be applied to each main unit described later.

[0035] Other variations are shown. Each of the above embodiments is configured such that a single unit can provide either a second pulse group as an electrical signal that provides tension relief throughout the entire body (hereinafter referred to as the "first signal") as shown in Figure 3(a), or a fourth pulse group as an electrical signal that provides tension to the entire body (hereinafter referred to as the "second signal") as shown in Figure 3(b). However, the invention is not limited to this, and a single unit can output both the first and second electrical signals. In this case, for example, the first signal may be output when switch A105 is pressed for the first time, and the second signal may be output when switch A105 is pressed again. Furthermore, the output may be stopped when switch A105 is pressed. That is, the signal may be switched sequentially or the output may be stopped each time switch A105 is pressed.

[0036] Pressing switch A105 does not simply mean pressing it; it can also involve double-clicking or long-pressing. The operation method can be differentiated, for example, by double-clicking to switch the output signal and long-pressing to start or stop the signal output. Such a configuration is desirable because it avoids malfunctions of the device if switch A105 is accidentally touched.

[0037] In this configuration, if the output signal needs to be changed, pressing switch A105 will supply, for example, the parameters of the first signal, and pressing switch A105 again will supply, for example, the parameters of the second signal, from the control unit A202 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 their respective parameters.

[0038] Other variations are shown. The pulse output used above is set to 50 μA, but is not limited to this; for example, it could be 70 μA or 100 μA. Alternatively, the output value could be adjusted to obtain the desired effect, for example, by providing a volume control function in controller A104 or controller B404 to adjust the output. The effects described above may vary from person to person, so it is preferable for the user to be able to adjust the output themselves.

[0039] Other variations are shown. In the above, the output of the pulses used, for example, the output used for the second pulse group was a single value of 50 μA as described above, but the present invention is not limited to this. The output values ​​for the first signal and the second signal may be changed. For example, the output may be 50 μA for the first signal and 100 μA for the second signal. Alternatively, the output value for the first signal and the second signal may be changed from 50 μA in units of the fourth pulse group. For example, immediately after switch A105 is pressed, i.e., the output of the second pulse group in the first fourth pulse group is 50 μA, but the output of the second pulse group in the next fourth pulse group may be 52 μA, and thereafter the output value may be gradually changed in units of the fourth pulse. Alternatively, a configuration in which the output value is raised or lowered is also possible.

[0040] Other variations are shown. The pulse output used above, for example, the output used for the second pulse group is 50 μA as described above, and an output that the human body cannot perceive as electrical stimulation is used, but the present invention is not limited to this. An output that can be perceived as electrical stimulation at the wrist, and in a range where muscle contraction does not occur and no pain is felt as a result of the electrical stimulation (hereinafter referred to as "sensible output"), for example, an output of about 950 μA may be used. Furthermore, both the first signal and the second signal may be sensitive outputs, or at least one of them may be sensitive outputs, for example, the first signal may be an insensitive output and the second signal may be a sensitive output, or vice versa. This makes it easier for the user to determine which signal, the first or the second, is being used. As described above, by setting the current value of the electrical signal to 20 mA or less, muscle contraction does not occur, and by setting it to a few mA or less, little pain is felt. Of course, sensitivity to pain depends on the location where the electrical signal is supplied and individual differences, but by setting it to 950 μA as described above, it is thought that a person will feel little pain unless there is a wound on the wrist.

[0041] Other variations are shown. The pulse output used in the above, 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, a tactile output, for example 500 μA, is used as the output for the second pulse group, and after a certain period of time has elapsed since the start of output, for example 30 seconds after the start of output, the output for the second pulse group may be changed to an insensitive output, for example 50 μA. This change in output may be made abruptly from a tactile output to an insensitive 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, etc., until it finally becomes 50 μA. Since the tactile output is a very weak power that does not cause pain as described above, it can be used as a second signal, and even if the tactile output using 500 μA is used in combination with the insensitive output, if the output is relatively small or relatively short in duration, as with the tactile output, the same effect as the insensitive output can be obtained, and the effect of the insensitive output will not be hindered. For example, there are no problems or drawbacks to using a sensible output, such as the use of a sensible output reducing the effectiveness of an insensitive output. Therefore, temporarily using a sensible output can lead to more effective use of the insensitive output, as follows:

[0042] When using an unsensory output, the user cannot perceive the output, and may not realize that the output is not being provided properly, such as if they have missed pressing switch A105 or if battery 203 is low. However, by using a sensible output after the output has started, as described above, the user can easily know that an electrical signal is being output, and conversely, if they do not receive a sensible electrical stimulation immediately after the output starts, they can easily know that no output is being provided, thus easily avoiding the problem. For example, they can easily notice if they have operated the switch incorrectly or if the battery is low, and correct the situation by repeating the operation or replacing or charging battery 203. Furthermore, when only an unsensory output is used, the user cannot feel an electrical stimulation, so they may doubt whether an electrical signal is actually being output, i.e., whether the device is functioning correctly. However, because there is a temporary sensible electrical stimulation, the user can easily know that the device is functioning correctly, and by feeling the output, the effect can be improved.

[0043] The temporary, responsive 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 an unresponsive output to a responsive output 30 seconds before the output ends, the user can be notified that the output will soon end. When an unresponsive output is used, there is a problem in that the user does not know when the output has ended, but since a responsive output is used just before the end of output, the user can easily know when it has ended. Furthermore, when switching from an unresponsive output to a responsive output, for example, if the unresponsive output is 50 μA, it can be changed abruptly from 50 μA to, for example, 500 μA, or it can be controlled to gradually change from 50 μA to 200 μA, 300 μA, 400 μA, and so on, until it finally reaches 500 μA.

[0044] The temporary stimulating output described above can be used not only at the start or end of the output, but also at both the start and end of the output. Alternatively, the temporary stimulating output can be used periodically to inform the user that the device is functioning correctly and that time has passed. For example, a stimulating output may be used in the first or second signal every 5 minutes of output. Furthermore, it is preferable to change the duration of the stimulating output used when the output continues (to indicate the passage of time) to the duration of the stimulating 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 a stimulating stimulus.

[0045] Configurations that use sensible output at the start and end of output, or periodically for short periods, i.e., configurations that use sensible output temporarily, are more desirable for the following reasons. Although sensible output does not cause pain, prolonged exposure to this stimulus may not necessarily be stressful. Therefore, even though sensible output does not cause pain, it is desirable to limit its use to short periods or temporary periods, and using such sensible output temporarily instead of insensitive output is more desirable in that it does not cause stress to the user. As described above, when using insensitive output, 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.

[0046] Other variations are shown. In the above, the first signal is the output of only the second pulse group as shown in Figure 3(a), but the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to use an electrical signal as shown in Figure 3(b), i.e., the fourth pulse group, as the first signal. However, in this case, it is desirable that T1 and T3 be 1 second or less, 0.8 seconds or less for stable effects to begin to be obtained, and 0.5 seconds or less for a more reliable effect. By setting T1 and T3 of the fourth pulse group to 1 second or less each, the fourth pulse group can be used as the first signal, which is an electrical signal that provides tension relief throughout the entire body.

[0047] Other variations are shown. In the present invention, the main unit F 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 (the appearance of main unit F is the same as that of main unit A1 and main unit B2, so the appearance of main unit F is shown in Figures 1 and 4).

[0048] In this case, for example, when switch A105 is pressed for the first time, a fourth pulse group with a duration of 0.3 seconds is output as the first signal (T1 and T3), and when switch A105 is pressed again, a fourth pulse group with a duration of 1.8 seconds is output as the second signal (T1 and T3). Alternatively, the output may be stopped by pressing switch A105 again.

[0049] When outputting both the first and second signals, the waveform generation unit F804, which can output both, is used, and the controller F801 using the waveform generation unit F804 is shown in Figure 8. As with the waveform generation unit F804, by setting T1 and T3 to, for example, 0.1 seconds or 0.3 seconds, the output circuit configuration can be the same as that of the output circuit that outputs the second signal even when outputting the first signal. In other words, both the first and second signals can be output with a single output circuit.

[0050] While the primary purpose of the first and third pulse groups is to reduce pain caused by strong electrical currents that would otherwise cause muscle contractions, even weak currents that would not cause muscle contractions can also reduce pain and discomfort caused by electrical currents flowing to the injured or inflamed areas of the skin, rather than the muscles, if there are injuries or inflammation in the skin.

[0051] Alternatively, if there are wounds or inflammation on the skin, even an insensitive output may be perceived as a stimulating electrical stimulus, even if pain is not felt, and the insensitive output may act as a stimulating output. As mentioned above, even if pain is not felt, prolonged stimulating stimulation is undesirable as it can cause stress to the user. In this case, by using the fourth pulse group described above as the first signal, the user will be less likely to perceive the supplied electrical stimulus even if there are wounds or inflammation on the skin. Therefore, it is preferable to use the fourth pulse group as the first signal, and in this case, T1 and T3 should realistically be 0.8 seconds or less and 0.1 seconds or more. The controller F801 may also be configured to have 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 using the first signal, or information indicating that T1 and T3 are, for example, 1.8 seconds when using the first signal, and outputs the first and second signals from the waveform generation unit F804.

[0052] Figure 7(a) shows another modified example, main body D4. In main body A1 and main body B2 as described above, the various circuit sections built into controller A104 or controller B404 are located on the belt section A101, but the configuration is not limited to this, and may be provided elsewhere, for example, controller D705 may be provided as a separate unit from main body D4. Figure 7(b) shows the view from the direction of arrow B in the same figure. Controller D705 is omitted in Figure 7(a), but is shown in Figure 7(b). In this case, the separate controller D705 may be used by wearing it around the neck with a neck strap, or it may be used by putting it in a pocket. In this case, the controller D705 may be configured such that electrical signals can be supplied to the wrist via electrodes A102 connected to terminals A702 and B703 of the mounting portion 701 provided on the belt portion A101, using cables 704 and connectors 708. Each terminal and electrode is connected by a harness B709 inside the belt portion A101. The controller D705 is equipped with a switch B706 and an LED-B707, which are used in the same way as the switch A105 and LED-A106.

[0053] Figure 9 shows another modified example, the main body H5. In each of the above examples, it is assumed that the device will be worn on the wrist, but the present invention is not limited to this and may be in the shape of a ring, for example, and one example is shown where there is a ring 901. The ring 901 has electrodes C902 and D903, which correspond to electrodes A102 and B103. Electrode C902 is connected to terminal C904 via harness C908, electrode D903 is connected to terminal D905 via harness D909, and terminals C904 and D905 are connected to cable H907 by connector H906 and connected to the main body H5 where the controller is located. The controller may be any of the above controllers, and Figure (b) shows the case where controller F801 is used, and as shown in Figure (C), controller F801 is provided on the bracelet-shaped main body H5, and the main body H5 is worn on the wrist and the ring 901 is worn like a ring.

[0054] The ring 901 can be made of an insulating material such as resin, or it may be made of rubber or silicone. The figure is a conceptual diagram illustrating the configuration of each part, so although the ring 901 in (a) and the main body H5 in (c) are shown as being the same size, this does not mean that they are the same size.

[0055] Figure 10 shows a modified version of Figure 9. In Figure 9, two electrodes are arranged on the ring 901, but in the present invention, any configuration that applies current to the extremities of the limbs or their vicinity is acceptable and is not limited to this. Therefore, for example, as in Figure 10, one of the two electrodes used to supply a weak current may be placed on the ring-shaped ring J1001, and the other electrode may be attached to another part, such as the wrist. Figure 10(a) shows the ring-shaped ring J1001, similar to Figure 9(a). However, the electrode C902 and harness etc. in Figure 9(a) are not on the ring J1001, but are arranged on the main body J6 as electrode A102 and harness E1008, as shown in Figure 10(c). The main body J6 consists of a belt part A101 and an expandable part A107, and has the same configuration as in Figure 1. Electrode D903 is connected to terminal D905 via harness D909, and terminal D905 is connected to cable J1007 via connector J1006, which is then connected to the controller. The main unit J6 is worn on the wrist, and ring J1001 is worn like a ring. The ring J1001 is illustrated as an example using an insulating material like ring 901, but is not limited to this. The ring may be made of a conductive or highly conductive material such as platinum or silver, as shown in ring K1002 in figure (d). In this case, electrode 903 and harness D909 are unnecessary, allowing for a simpler configuration, and ring K1002 can be used instead of ring J1001 in figure (b). Ring K1002 is connected to the main unit J6 via harness E1007 and terminal D905.

[0056] Figure 11 shows another modification. While Figures 9 and 10 above show examples using only one ring-shaped ring, such as ring 901, ring J1001, or ring K1002, the present invention is not limited to this, and configurations using multiple rings K1002 are also possible. Figure 11 shows a configuration using two rings K1002. In this figure, a main body K7 is used, which can use multiple rings K1002 instead of the main body J6, and two rings K1002 that act as electrodes are connected by a cable K1107.

[0057] Figure 12 shows another modification. Although the above assumes attachment to the wrist or fingers, the present invention is not limited to this and may take the form of a supporter, for example, as shown in the main body L8. The main body L8 has a supporter 1201, on which electrodes E1202 and F1203 corresponding to electrodes A102 and B103 are arranged, and electrodes E1202 and F1203 are connected to the controller via a harness F1208. In the figure, electrodes E1202 and F1203 are positioned to contact the back of the hand, and the harness F1208 is also provided inside the supporter 1201 so that it cannot be seen directly from the outside, and its position is indicated by a dotted line. The controller may be any of the above controllers, and Figure (a) shows the case in which controller F801 is used, and the main body L8 is attached and used as shown in Figure 12. The supporter 1201 may be made of an insulating material, for example, it may be made of cloth such as cotton, or it may be made of leather, rubber, silicone, etc.

[0058] In Figure 12, electrodes E1202 and F1202 are placed in the positions shown in Figure (a), but the present invention is not limited to this. The multiple regions enclosed by the dotted lines in Figures (b) and (c) are desirable locations for electrode placement, as they ensure reliable contact between the electrodes and the skin. Hereafter, each of these desirable electrode placement regions will be referred to as an electrode region. Two electrode regions can be selected from these regions 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 (b) shows the electrode region on the back of the hand, and Figure (c) shows the electrode region on the palm side.

[0059] Figure 13 shows another modification. Figure 12 shows a configuration in which electrodes are placed on the supporter 1201, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the main body M9 may also use ring J1001 or ring K1002 as one of the electrodes. Figure 13 shows the case in which ring K1002 is used instead of electrode E1202 in Figure 12, but ring K1002 may also be used instead of electrode F1203.

[0060] Figure 14 shows another modification. Figures 11 and 12 show examples of a support shape for use on the wrist, but the present invention is not limited to these, and an example of a glove shape is shown as in Figure 14. The above assumes that it will be worn on the wrist or fingers, but the present invention is not limited to these, and may be in the shape of a glove, for example, and the main body N10 is shown as an example. The main body N10 has a glove 1401, and electrodes E1202 and F1203 corresponding to electrodes A102 and B103 are arranged thereon, and electrodes E1202 and F1203 are connected to the controller via harness M1402. The controller may be any of the above controllers, and the figure shows the case in which controller F801 is used, and the main body N10 is worn and used as shown in the figure. The glove 1401 may be made of an insulating material, similar to the support 1201, and may be made of cloth such as cotton, or leather, rubber, silicone, etc. When using a glove-shaped body as shown in Figure 14, the electrode area where electrodes can be placed, as shown in Figure 12, extends to the surface of each finger covered by the glove, allowing electrodes to be placed on each finger. However, since the ring-shaped rings 901, J1001, and K1002 are not required, electrode attachment becomes easier.

[0061] The embodiments and modifications described above all show examples in which the main unit and electrodes are placed at or near the extremities of the limbs, for example, on the wrists and fingers, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The electrodes and main unit may not be attached to or near the extremities of the limbs, but rather placed on equipment that comes into contact with the peripheral parts of the limbs or nearby areas. For example, electrodes and the main unit may be placed on keyboards and mice when using a personal computer, on steering wheels, accelerators or brakes when driving a motorcycle or car, or on pens, smartphones, etc.

[0062] Figure 15 shows an example of these. Figure 15(a) shows the case when used in a mouse. The mouse 1501 has a left click 1502, a right click 1503, and a body part 1504 that the palm makes contact with, and electrodes G1505 and H1506 may be placed on the body part 1504. Any of the above controllers may be used as the controller, for example, controller F801 may be placed on the body part 1504 and connected to electrodes G1505 and H1506. As for the arrangement of the electrodes, electrodes may be placed at the proximal end of the body part 1504 where the part that the thumb touches and the part of the palm near the wrist make contact, as shown in the figure, or electrode G1505 may be placed on the right side of the body part 1504 where the little finger makes contact, so that current flows to the thumb and little finger through electrode G1505 and electrode H1506 placed on the thumb side. Alternatively, electrodes G1505 and H1506 may be placed at the proximal end of the body part 1504.

[0063] Alternatively, the left click button 1502 or right click button 1503 may be made of a conductive material instead of electrode G1505, or electrode G1505 may be placed on the left click button 1502 or right click button 1503 so that current flows through the thumb and index or middle finger. Alternatively, the left click button 1502 or right click button 1503 and electrode H1506 placed on the body part 1504 may be used to supply the first signal current and the second signal to the palm and fingers. Alternatively, electrode H1506 may be placed on the left click button 1502, or at least the surface of the left click button 1502 may be made conductor, and electrode G1505 may be placed on the right click button 1503, or at least the surface of the right click button 1503 may be made conductor so that the first or second signal flows through the index or middle finger. Furthermore, the switch A105 and LED-A106 may be arranged as shown in the figure, for example.

[0064] Figure 15(b) shows an example of the present invention applied to a notebook computer. As shown in the figure, the PC 1511 has electrodes J1514 and K1515 positioned to the left of the touchpad area 1513 for operating the mouse pointer, in front of the keyboard area 1512, and connected to a controller located inside the PC 1511. Any of the above controllers may be used as the controller; for example, controller F801 may be located inside the PC 1511 and connected to electrodes J1514 and K1515. In the figure, the electrodes are positioned to the left of the touchpad area 1513, but this is not limited to this; they may also be positioned to the right, or on both sides of the touchpad area 1513, to supply the first signal current and the second signal to each of the palms of both hands. The electrical signals supplied via electrodes J1514 and K1515 may be controlled by an application installed inside the PC 1511.

[0065] Figure 15(c) shows an example of applying the present invention to a car steering wheel. As shown in the figure, electrodes L1522 and M1523 are arranged on the steering wheel 1521 and connected to a controller located inside the steering wheel 1521. Furthermore, a switch A105 and LED-A106 may be arranged as shown in the figure, for example. Any of the above controllers may be used as the controller; for example, controller F801 may be located on the steering wheel 1521 and connected to electrodes L1522 and M1523. Electrodes L1522 and M1523 are located on the right side of the steering wheel, but the present invention is not limited to this, and they may be located on the left side or on both sides. Also, electrodes L1522 and M1523 are located on the front side of the steering wheel, but the present invention is not limited to this, and they may be located on the side, or one on the front and the other on the side.

[0066] Figure 15(d) shows an example of applying the present invention to a mobile terminal. As shown in the figure, electrodes P1533 and Q1534 are arranged on both sides of the housing 1532 or display portion 1535 of the smartphone 1531 and are connected to a controller located inside the housing 1532. Any of the above controllers may be used; for example, controller F801 may be located inside the housing 1532 and connected to electrodes P1533 and Q1534. Electrodes P1533 and Q1534 are located on the lower halves of both sides of the housing 1532, but are not limited to this; they may also be located 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.

[0067] In the example shown in Figure 15, the controller and electrodes may be provided as separate components. For example, in the case of a mouse, the controller may be placed on a computer to which the mouse is connected, and an application installed on the computer 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 not on the steering wheel itself, but on the instrument panel, for example, and the electrical signals supplied to the human body may be controlled using, for example, the user interface of a car navigation system.

[0068] In Figures 9 through 15 above, a weak, insensitive current is used as the supplied electrical signal. Therefore, it does not cause pain or discomfort to the user, and the user does not even feel that an electric current is being supplied. As a result, even when the user is driving, doing office work, or performing detailed manual tasks, they are not affected by the supplied electrical signal at all. These tasks can be easily and effortlessly continued without any stress from the electrical signal.

[0069] Furthermore, by using the first and second signals during these tasks, you can continuously refresh or relax while working, which not only increases work efficiency but also ensures continued safe work. For example, when driving for long periods or at night, you can use the second signal to constantly refresh while driving, and when stuck in traffic, you can use the first signal to relax while driving, thus maintaining safe driving. When using a computer for long periods or at night, you can use the second signal to constantly refresh while working, or use the first signal to relax while working, allowing you to continue working without errors and without strain.

[0070] In the embodiments and various modifications described above, the electrical signals used are pulse groups using square waves, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a triangular wave may be used instead of a square wave, or an impulse train using multiple impulses may be used, or a sine wave may be used instead of a pulse group. Furthermore, the electrical signal may have both positive and negative amplitudes, or it may be a unipolar waveform with only positive or negative amplitudes. Or, it is not limited to electrical signals with equal positive and negative amplitudes, but may have different positive and negative amplitudes, or the shapes of the positive and negative waveforms may be changed, or it may be an offset waveform.

[0071] The above examples are all examples of use on the human body, but the present invention is also applicable to other living organisms (hereinafter simply referred to as "living organisms"). Examples of living organisms include animals kept in zoos, such as lions and giraffes, as well as animals 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 explain using livestock as an example. Livestock are often kept in relatively small spaces, for example, cows are kept in barns, and lack of exercise, confinement in small spaces, or stress due to other factors, or prolonged tension due to other factors, can greatly affect their growth and health, the quantity and quality of milk in the case of dairy cows, and the quality of meat in the case of beef cattle.

[0072] Therefore, by using the device incorporating the present invention on a living organism, such as a cow, it becomes possible to alleviate stress and tension and improve milk and meat quality. The device used in this case is the same as the one used in the example above. Main body A, main body B, and variations thereof can be used. However, to suit the animal, it may be necessary to change the size of belt A101 or the material to increase its strength, for example, so that it can be used on the feet of a cow.

[0073] The device described above does not require a particularly large circuit configuration or battery, and the body does not experience any stress related to its size or weight. Not only is any new stress caused by wearing the device immediately relieved, but the non-sensitive output described above cannot be perceived by the body, so there is no awareness of being electrically stimulated, and there is no further stress from using a device incorporating the present invention.

[0074] However, since the device is unfamiliar to the animal when first attached, it may be curious and may lick or bite it. Therefore, it is necessary to cover the switches with a cover and increase the strength of the controller and belt to prevent unintentional activation or damage to the switches. Alternatively, a configuration that eliminates the switches from the main unit and uses wireless remote control from an external source would be even preferable, as it would avoid unintentional operation or damage to the switches due to licking or biting by the animal.

[0075] When using the device of the present invention on a living organism, the electrodes used, such as electrodes A102 and B103 described above, may not be suitable for use as is. The limbs of a living organism are usually covered with body hair, so sufficient current cannot be supplied to the limbs. Therefore, instead of using electrodes made of conductive resin or metal as electrodes A102 and B103, it is desirable to use highly elastic materials, such as conductive rubber or conductive fibers, so that the current from the electrodes can be sufficiently supplied to the limbs. Alternatively, a conductive, high-viscosity gel may be applied to the surface of electrodes A102 and B103 to ensure that sufficient current can be supplied to the limbs of the living organism.

[0076] By using the device of the present invention on living organisms, the following effects can be expected. The effects listed below can be expected individually, as well as in combination. One effect is the reduction of tension. The reasons for tension are not limited to specific reasons; for example, it can be caused by stress from being confined to a small cage or room. Other examples include stress caused by weather conditions such as abnormally low or high temperatures, typhoons, strong winds, prolonged rain, or dryness, as well as tension caused by vigilance due to construction work being carried out nearby. Alternatively, it can be caused by changes in physical condition due to poor health or pregnancy.

[0077] To alleviate the tension described above, the first signal can be supplied to the limbs of a living organism using main unit A1, main unit E, or main unit F, or by using a device capable of outputting pulses equivalent to these, thereby alleviating tension, relieving stress, and being used for maintaining and improving the health of the organism. Alternatively, it is effective to supply these first signals to the limbs of a living organism in advance, anticipating the occurrence of tension or to individuals 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 sick individuals can be expected to suppress their activity and accelerate the healing of injuries or illnesses.

[0078] By using the device of the present invention on living organisms, other effects can be expected. These other effects include the promotion of activity. For example, in elderly organisms, activity itself decreases, leading to a lack of exercise, which can induce muscle weakness, joint disorders, and internal organ diseases caused by lack of exercise. The same applies to animals in zoos; their activity is restricted in cages, and food is easily available at regular intervals, reducing opportunities for exercise and leading to a lack of exercise. A lack of exercise increases the likelihood of inducing disease and injury. Therefore, by supplying a second signal to the limbs of an organism using the current stimulation device of the present invention, or a device with the function of outputting pulses equivalent thereto, it is possible to give the organism a sense of refreshment, increase its activity and vitality, alleviate lack of exercise, and use it for maintaining and managing the organism's physical condition. For example, in the case of cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, it is possible to maintain and manage meat quality, and to improve, maintain, and manage milk quality and milk yield. By supplying a second signal to organisms with reduced activity or function to increase their activity, it becomes possible to prevent muscle loss in elderly individuals and maintain strong muscles, or to improve lack of exercise, thereby preventing injuries and illnesses and maintaining health even in old age.

[0079] The device of the present invention allows for not only the management of the health of living organisms using the first and second signals, but also the control of quality in the case 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 to restrict the activity level of beef cattle, thereby controlling the toughness and fat content of the meat. For example, it is possible to make the meat tender and increase the proportion of marbling. In this case, there is no forced restriction of the animals' exercise, nor is exercise forced, so no stress is caused to the animals.

[0080] Furthermore, the present invention provides a device that gives a feeling of relaxation to the entire body, comprising an annular or band-shaped main body, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal, a control unit that controls the electrical signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power to the output circuit and the control unit from a battery or outlet, wherein when the main body is attached to 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, and the electrical signal is supplied to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode. This enables the use of a first electrical signal, which is supplied to the wrist. The first electrical signal is supplied to the wrist and is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user, and is an electrical signal that, when supplied to the wrist, gives a feeling of relaxation to the entire body. The first electrical signal is a pulse group composed of multiple pulses, and includes a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained at a constant level, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, and the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, respectively.

[0081] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device of the present invention is characterized in that, in addition to the first electrical signal, a second electrical signal is applied, wherein the second electrical signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and the user does not feel pain but can feel that an electrical signal has been applied, and the second electrical signal is used to notify the user when the first electrical signal is supplied to the wrist.

[0082] Furthermore, the present invention provides a device that relieves tension throughout the entire body, comprising an annular or band-shaped main body, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body, an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal, a control unit that controls the electrical signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power to the output circuit and the control unit from a battery or outlet, wherein when the main body is attached to 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, and the electrical signal can be supplied to the wrist using the first electrode and the second electrode, and the electrical signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction. The present invention relates to an electrical signal that is present but not perceived by the user, and which, when supplied to the wrist, provides a relaxation of tension throughout the entire body, and is a pulse group composed of multiple pulses, comprising a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude remains constant, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and the output of the second pulse group is 50 μA or more and 100 μA or less, and is characterized in that the present invention relates to an electrical signal that is present but not perceived by the user, and which, when supplied to the wrist, provides a relaxation of tension throughout the entire body.

[0083] Furthermore, the device provides a second electrical signal in addition to the first electrical signal, wherein the second electrical signal is an electrical signal in which the output of the second pulse group in the first electrical signal is 500 μA or more and 950 μA or less, and when the first electrical signal is supplied to the wrist, the device temporarily changes the first electrical signal to output the second electrical signal to notify the user.

[0084] Furthermore, the present invention provides an electrical stimulation device comprising: an annular or band-shaped main body; a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the main body; an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal; a control unit that controls the electrical signal; a power supply unit that supplies power to the output circuit and the control unit from a battery or outlet; and a switch that switches the electrical signal output from the output circuit. The device provides a sensation of tension to the entire body or relieves tension, wherein when the main body is attached to 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, and the electrical signal can be supplied to the wrist using the first and second electrodes. The output circuit outputs both a first signal and a second signal, and the first signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user, and is an electrical signal that, when supplied to the wrist, provides a sensation of tension to the entire body. The present invention relates to an electrical signal comprising a pulse group consisting of multiple pulses, the fourth pulse group comprising a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude remains constant, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group in the fourth pulse group is 1.5 seconds or more, the second signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user, and is an electrical signal that, when supplied to the wrist, provides tension relief to the entire body, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group in the first signal of the fourth pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and the output of the second pulse group is 50 μA or more and 100 μA or less, and the first signal or the second signal is switched by the switch and output as the electrical signal and supplied to the wrist, thereby providing tension or tension relief to the entire body.

[0085] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device of the present invention is characterized in that the supply of the electrical signal can be started or stopped by operating the switch, and the operation for supplying or starting the electrical signal is different from the operation for switching between the first signal and the second signal.

[0086] Furthermore, the present invention provides a device that relieves tension throughout the entire body, comprising an annular or band-shaped main body, a ring connected to the main body, a first electrode and a second electrode arranged on the ring, an output circuit that outputs an electrical signal, a control unit that controls the electrical signal, and a power supply unit that supplies power to the output circuit and the control unit from a battery or outlet, wherein when the ring is worn on the user's finger, the first electrode and the second electrode are positioned on the finger, and the electrical signal can be supplied to the finger using the first electrode and the second electrode, and the electrical signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user. The present invention provides an electrical signal that, when supplied to the finger, relieves tension throughout the entire body, and comprises a pulse group consisting of multiple pulses, comprising a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude remains constant, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and the output of the second pulse group is 50 μA or more and 100 μA or less, and is characterized in that the first electrical signal is supplied to the finger by the first electrode and the second electrode to relieve tension throughout the entire body.

[0087] Furthermore, the present invention provides a device that adds a second electrical signal in addition to the first electrical signal, wherein the second electrical signal is an electrical signal in which the output of the second pulse group in the first electrical signal is 500 μA or more and 950 μA or less, and when the first electrical signal is supplied to the finger, the device provides notification to the user by temporarily changing the first electrical signal to the second electrical signal and outputting the second electrical signal. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0088] 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 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 Interface Section 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 504 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 part 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 Smartphone 1532 enclosure 1533 Electrode P 1534 Electrode Q 1535 Display part

Claims

1. An output circuit that outputs electrical signals to the first electrode and the second electrode, A control unit that controls the aforementioned electrical signal, A power supply unit that supplies power to the output circuit and the control unit, A device having a main body equipped with the above, which outputs a first signal as the electrical signal from the output circuit, The first signal is an electrical signal that does not cause muscle contraction and is not felt by the user, and is a pulse group composed of multiple pulses, comprising a fourth pulse group which includes a first pulse group whose amplitude gradually increases, a second pulse group whose amplitude is maintained at a constant level, and a third pulse group whose amplitude gradually decreases, wherein the duration of the first pulse group and the third pulse group in the fourth pulse group is 0.1 seconds or more and 0.8 seconds or less, and the amplitude of the second pulse group is 50 μA or more and 100 μA or less. The device is characterized in that when the main body is attached to the extremities of the limbs of the user's body, the first electrode and the second electrode come into contact with the body, and the first signal is supplied to the extremities using the first electrode and the second electrode, thereby providing tension relief to the entire body.

2. The current stimulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that the peripheral part of the limbs of the human body is the wrist.

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