heel stimulation device

Abstract

To provide a heel stimulation device that can effectively suppress bone loss and increase bone mass. [Solution] The heel stimulation device comprises a base member 10, a pair of left and right pedals 20 for placing the foot on and pressing down, a pedal support mechanism 30 for supporting each pedal 20 on the upper side of the base member 10 in a state where it can be raised and lowered, and a pair of left and right heel stimulation protrusions 40 that are inserted through holes 21 provided in the heel portion of the pedals 20. When the pedals 20 are pressed down, the upper ends of the heel stimulation protrusions 40 protrude from inside the through holes 21 to the upper surface of the pedals 20, stimulating the heel of the foot placed on the pedals 20. When the pedals 20 are raised, the upper ends of the heel stimulation protrusions 40 retract into the through holes 21, resulting in a state where the heel of the foot is not stimulated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a heel stimulation device that applies stimulation to the heel.

Background Art

[0002] Among athletes, there are some who dislike developing extra muscles that are not necessary for their competitions and who, instead of running, train by cycling. However, recent research has reported that people who mainly train by cycling and rarely run have less bone mass than those who continuously run. The reason is that when only cycling training is done, the impact necessary to increase bone mass is not applied to the bones, and a substance called "sclerostin" that reduces the number of osteoblasts (cells that make bone) is generated in large quantities. To prevent bone mass reduction, it is said that it is effective to regularly perform exercises that apply stimulation to the heel, such as running.

[0003] However, it is not always easy to regularly perform exercises that apply stimulation to the heel. For the above-mentioned athletes, running and the like may lead to a decline in competitive ability, and on the other hand, there are no particularly obvious exercises other than running that can efficiently apply stimulation to the heel. Also, even for ordinary people who are not athletes, it is difficult for busy people or those with weak legs and waists to run regularly. The only thing such people who cannot run regularly can do to apply stimulation to the heel is to hit the heel with a hammer or the like. However, the work of hitting the heel with a hammer or the like is monotonous and tiresome.

[0004] Incidentally, footwear equipped with protrusions for stimulating the soles of the feet (see, for example, Figure 1 of Patent Document 1) and devices that are placed inside shoes and equipped with protrusions for stimulating the soles of the feet (see, for example, Figures 1 and 2 of Patent Document 2) have been proposed. It is said that by using these footwear and devices, it becomes possible to stimulate the soles of the feet during the everyday act of "walking," thereby promoting health. However, these types of footwear and devices are intended to improve blood circulation by providing acupressure-like stimulation to the soles of the feet, and are not intended to suppress bone loss. Therefore, there is doubt as to whether bone loss can be suppressed even by using these types of footwear and devices. Moreover, even if these footwear and devices are used, exercise such as walking or running is necessary to stimulate the soles of the feet.

[0005] In light of these circumstances, the applicant proposes a heel stimulation device as shown in Figure 2 of Patent Document 3 and Figure 1 of Patent Document 4.

[0006] The heel stimulator described in Patent Document 3 comprises a top plate 11 on which the foot rests, a hammer 20 that strikes the heel through a striking hole 11a provided in the heel resting portion of the top plate 11, and a hammer driving means 30 (motor, etc.) for moving the hammer 20 up and down. In this heel stimulator, when the hammer vibration mechanism 30 is driven with the foot placed on the top plate 11, the heel is struck by the hammer 20. Therefore, it is possible to provide the same kind of stimulation to the heel as when running, even when sitting in a chair or lying in bed.

[0007] On the other hand, while the heel stimulator described in Patent Document 4 has a basic configuration similar to that of the heel stimulator described in Patent Document 3, it differs from the heel stimulator described in Patent Document 3 in that the hammer driving means 30 (referred to as "hammer vibration mechanism 30" in Patent Document 4) is attached to the housing 10 via a damper member 40. This damper member 40 makes it possible to suppress the noise generated from the heel stimulator. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 55-001859 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 02-010838 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-069668 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-132035 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] As described above, the heel stimulation devices described in Patent Documents 3 and 4 have the advantage of being able to stimulate the heel even if the user is not walking or running. However, it has been found that these heel stimulation devices may have a limited effect in suppressing bone loss. This is because it has been pointed out that sclerostin (a substance that inhibits bone mass increase) is less likely to be secreted when heel stimulation is performed while the human brain recognizes that the person is "walking" (i.e., bone loss is suppressed when heel stimulation is performed while the human brain recognizes that the person is "walking"). In the heel stimulation devices described in Patent Documents 3 and 4, the timing of heel stimulation by the hammer 20 is controlled by a motor or the like, regardless of the user's (human) will.

[0010] Furthermore, in the heel stimulation devices described in Patent Documents 3 and 4, a drive device such as a motor is used to operate the hammer 30. Therefore, even if a damper member 40 is used, as in the heel stimulation device of Patent Document 4, there is a problem in that unpleasant mechanical noises such as motor noise are generated.

[0011] The present invention was made to solve the above problems and provides a heel stimulation device that can effectively suppress bone loss and increase bone mass. Specifically, it provides a heel stimulation device that can stimulate the heel while the user is aware that they are moving their foot (more precisely, stimulate the heel at the moment they recognize that the lifted foot has landed). [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The above issues are, A heel stimulator for stimulating the heel, Base member and A pair of pedals, one on each side, for placing your feet on and pressing down, A pedal support mechanism for supporting each pedal in a position where it can be raised and lowered on the upper side of the base member, A pair of heel stimulating protrusions are inserted into a through-hole provided in the heel of the pedal. Equipped with, When the pedal is pressed down, the upper end of the heel stimulating projection protrudes from the through-hole towards the upper surface of the pedal, thereby stimulating the heel of the foot placed on the pedal. When the pedal is raised, the upper end of the heel stimulating protrusion enters the through-hole, preventing it from stimulating the heel of the foot. A heel stimulator characterized by the following: This is solved by providing [a solution].

[0013] The heel stimulation device of the present invention is used by stepping on a pair of left and right pedals with each foot placed on one pedal. The pedals are raised and lowered not by a motor or other driving means, but mainly by human power (the force of the user's feet). That is, the pedals rise and fall in accordance with the user's movement of raising and lowering their feet (the force that raises and lowers the pedals is mainly transmitted from the person's feet). When the pedal is pressed down, the heel stimulation projection protrudes upward from the through hole in the pedal, stimulating the user's heel.

[0014] Therefore, the timing at which the user's brain recognizes that they have "put their foot down" (landed their foot) can be synchronized with the timing at which the heel is stimulated. Consequently, even though the user is not actually walking or running, but merely stepping on the heel stimulator (performing an action with a lower exercise intensity than walking or running), the heel can receive a more effective stimulus at the same timing as when walking or running. This makes it possible to suppress the secretion of sclerostin (a substance that inhibits bone mass increase), thereby preventing bone loss and increasing bone mass.

[0015] Furthermore, as described above, the heel stimulation device of the present invention does not require the use of a motor or other driving means, so it does not produce unpleasant mechanical noises such as motor noise. For this reason, the heel stimulation device can be used comfortably even in a living room at home.

[0016] In the heel stimulation device of the present invention, the location where the heel stimulation projection is attached is not particularly limited, as long as it is in a state where it can move forward and backward through the through hole in the heel portion of the pedal. The heel stimulation projection may be attached to the base member side or to the pedal side. An example of attaching the heel stimulation projection to the base member side is to fix the heel stimulation projection upward from the base member. On the other hand, an example of attaching the heel stimulation projection to the pedal side is to have a heel stimulation projection having a large diameter portion that is hooked near the upper end of the through hole in the heel portion of the pedal, and a small diameter portion that is provided downward from the large diameter portion. In this case, when the pedal is pressed down, the lower end of the small diameter portion of the heel stimulation projection comes into contact with the base member or another member fixed to the base member and is pushed upward, so that the large diameter portion of the heel stimulation projection protrudes from the through hole to the upper surface of the pedal.

[0017] In the heel stimulation device of the present invention, it is also preferable to provide a buffer means that allows the heel stimulation protrusion to sink in. When the heel stimulation protrusion hits the user's heel strongly, the user may feel pain. By providing the above buffer means and allowing the heel stimulation protrusion to sink in, it is possible to prevent the heel stimulation protrusion from hitting the heel too strongly.

[0018] In the heel stimulation device of the present invention, it is also preferable to provide an adjustment means for adjusting the protrusion amount of the heel stimulation device. This enables the user of the heel stimulation device to obtain a stimulation according to their preference. That is, the degree of strength of the stimulation preferred varies among users. When the protrusion amount of the heel stimulation protrusion is set large, the stimulation received by the user on the heel can be strengthened, and when the protrusion amount of the heel stimulation protrusion is set small, the stimulation received by the user on the heel can be weakened.

[0019] In the heel stimulation device of the present invention, the pedal support mechanism is not particularly limited as long as it can support the pedal in a vertically movable state above the base member. Examples of the vertical movement mode of the pedal include a mode of moving the pedal in a parallel movement (slide) in the vertical direction and a mode of rotating the pedal in a rotational movement (swing) in the vertical direction.

[0020] As a pedal support mechanism for moving the pedal in a parallel movement (slide) in the vertical direction, a pedal fixing part for fixing the pedal, and a lifting member having a supported part provided integrally with the pedal fixing part, a guiding member for guiding the supported part in the lifting member in the vertical direction, and the like are included.

[0021] On the other hand, as a pedal support mechanism for rotating the pedal in a rotational movement (swing) in the vertical direction, a pedal fixing part for fixing the pedal, and a swinging member having a supported shaft part provided integrally on the front side of the pedal fixing part, a shaft support member for supporting the supported shaft part in the swinging member in a rotatable state around an axis in the left - right direction, and the like are included.

[0022] By the way, in the heel stimulation device of the present invention, when you press down on the pedal with your foot on it, the pedal naturally goes down. However, when you lift your foot off the pedal, your foot moves upward and away from the pedal, and the pedal does not rise. Therefore, in the heel stimulation device of the present invention, in order for the pedal to repeatedly go up and down when you step on it, it is necessary to raise the pedal when you try to lift your foot off it.

[0023] In this regard, for example, if a member that covers the instep of the foot (a member equivalent to the upper part of a sandal, etc.) is attached to the pedal, the pedal will rise when the foot placed on the pedal is lifted. Similarly, if a biasing member that biases the pedal upward is provided, the pedal will rise when the foot placed on the pedal is lifted. However, in the former case (when a member that covers the instep of the foot is attached to the pedal), the foot may be compressed by the member covering the instep, causing friction and potentially worsening the user experience of the heel stimulation device. In the latter case (when a biasing member that biases the pedal upward is provided), when lowering the pedal, it becomes necessary to lower the foot against the biasing force of the biasing member, increasing the intensity of the stepping exercise. The heel stimulation device of the present invention is not intended for training muscle strength, etc., but rather to effectively stimulate the heel without walking or running (stepping, which has a lower exercise intensity than walking or running), so an increase in the exercise intensity of stepping is undesirable.

[0024] In light of these circumstances, it is preferable that the heel stimulation device of the present invention adopts the following structure. That is, the heel stimulation device further comprises a connecting wire that connects a pair of left and right pedals, and a pulley for looping the connecting wire around it, such that when one pedal (for example, the left foot pedal) is pressed down, the other pedal (for example, the right foot pedal) is pulled up by the connecting wire, and when the other pedal (the right foot pedal) is pressed down, the one pedal (the left foot pedal) is pulled up by the connecting wire. In other words, when stepping, when one foot (one pedal) is pressed down, the opposite foot (the opposite pedal) is raised, but the direction of the force applied to press down one pedal is changed by the pulley, and that force is used to raise the opposite pedal. As a result, as described above, it becomes possible to raise the pedal when attempting to lift the foot placed on it, without having to attach a member that covers the top of the foot to the pedal or provide a biasing member that biases the pedal upward. Here, the pulley only needs to be capable of smoothly guiding the connecting wire wrapped around it, and it may be fixed in an immobile state (it does not need to be pivotally supported in a rotatable state).

[0025] As described above, when connecting a pair of left and right pedals with a connecting wire, it is preferable to provide a connecting wire adjustment mechanism to adjust the tension of the connecting wire. This allows the connecting wire to be loosened (with some play) so that it does not become taut, enabling more natural footwork with the pair of left and right pedals. This is because, in order to perform natural footwork, it is better for the other pedal to rise a short time after one pedal has been pressed down. In this regard, if the connecting wire is fully taut (with no play), the other pedal will rise at the same time as one pedal is pressed down, whereas if the connecting wire is loose (with some play), the other pedal will rise a short time after one pedal has been pressed down. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] As described above, the present invention makes it possible to provide a heel stimulator that can effectively suppress bone loss and increase bone mass. Specifically, it makes it possible to provide a heel stimulator that can stimulate the heel while the user is aware that they are moving their foot (more precisely, stimulate the heel at the moment they recognize that the lifted foot has landed). [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment as seen from the rear (heel side). [Figure 2] This is a perspective view from the rear (heel side) of the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment, showing the right foot pedal in the down position. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view from the rear (heel side) of the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment, showing the left foot pedal in the down position. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the heel stimulation protrusion in the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of the heel stimulator of the second embodiment, as seen from the front (toe side). [Figure 6] This is a perspective view of the disassembled heel stimulator of the second embodiment, seen from the front (toe side). [Figure 7] This is a perspective view from the front (toe side) of the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, showing the left foot pedal in the down position. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view from the rear (toe side) of the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, showing the right foot pedal in the down position. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, showing the left foot pedal pressed down, cut along a vertical plane including the center line of the heel stimulation protrusion. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the heel stimulation protrusion in the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment. [Figure 11]This is a perspective view showing the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment as seen from the rear (heel side). [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the heel stimulation protrusion in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] The heel stimulator of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. In the following, the heel stimulator of the present invention will be described using three embodiments (first embodiment, second embodiment, and third embodiment) as examples. However, these embodiments are merely preferred embodiments, and the technical scope of the heel stimulator of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. The heel stimulator of the present invention can be modified as appropriate without impairing the spirit of the invention.

[0029] 1. Heel stimulator according to the first embodiment First, the heel stimulator of the first embodiment will be described. Figures 1 to 3 show a perspective view of the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, seen from the rear (heel side). Figure 1 shows the state where the pedal for the right foot and the pedal for the left foot are at the same height, Figure 2 shows the state where the pedal for the right foot is pressed down, and Figure 3 shows the state where the pedal for the left foot is pressed down.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the heel stimulator of the first embodiment comprises a base member 10, a pair of left and right pedals 20, a pedal support mechanism 30, a pair of left and right heel stimulating protrusions 40, a connecting wire 50, and a pulley 60. This heel stimulator is designed to stimulate the user's heel. This suppresses the secretion of sclerostin, a substance that inhibits bone mass increase, thereby suppressing bone loss and promoting bone mass increase.

[0031] 1.1 Base Member The base member 10 is the part that is placed on the floor or other surface. This base member 10 allows the heel stimulator to be stabilized without wobbling. For this reason, the base member 10 is made of a material with a certain amount of weight, such as metal. The shape of the base member 10 is not particularly limited, but in the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, it is plate-shaped as shown in Figure 1. A non-slip material such as a rubber sheet may be attached to the back of the base member 10. This makes it less likely for the heel stimulator to slip on the floor or other surface.

[0032] 1.2 Pedals Pedal 20 is for the user of the heel stimulator to place their foot on and press down. Pedal 20 consists of a right foot pedal 20R and a left foot pedal 20L. Each pedal 20R and 20L is not particularly limited as long as a foot can be placed on them. In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, a foot-shaped plate (like the shape of a shoe sole) is used as pedals 20R and 20L, and each pedal 20R and 20L can accommodate approximately the entire foot from the toes to the heel. Pedals 20R and 20L can be made of metal or the like, but if they are made of plastic, the pedals 20R and 20L can be made lighter and easier to operate with the foot. Also, the molding of pedals 20R and 20L becomes easier.

[0033] In Figure 1, the pedals 20R and 20L have flat upper surfaces, but the areas of the upper surface of the pedals 20R and 20L that come into contact with the soles of the feet may have irregularities (such as numerous protrusions and recesses). This can make it more difficult for the feet placed on the pedals 20R and 20L to slip and move. Additionally, a convex wall may be provided on the peripheral edge of the upper surface of the pedals 20R and 20L (along the outer edge of the pedals 20R and 20L). This can make it more difficult for the feet placed on the pedals 20R and 20L to fall off.

[0034] A through-hole 21 is provided at the rear of each pedal 20R, 20L, in the area that overlaps with the user's heel (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "heel area"). The heel area of ​​the right foot pedal 20R has a through-hole 21R, and the heel area of ​​the left foot pedal 20L has a through-hole 21L. These through-holes 21R, 21L each penetrate the pedals 20R, 20L in the vertical direction. The through-holes 21R, 21L are for inserting the heel stimulating projection 40, which will be described later. For this reason, the diameter (inner diameter) of the through-holes 21R, 21L is larger than the diameter (outer diameter) of the heel stimulating projection 40.

[0035] 1.3 Pedal support mechanism The pedal support mechanism 30 is for supporting the pedal 20 on the upper side of the base member 10 in a state where it can be raised and lowered. As shown in Figure 1, the pedal support mechanism 30 is provided in pairs on the left and right sides, one for supporting the pedal 20R for the right foot (right foot pedal support mechanism 30R) and one for supporting the pedal 20L for the left foot (right foot pedal support mechanism 30L). In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, each pedal support mechanism 30 is composed of a lifting member 31 and a guide member 32. The lifting member 31 and the guide member 32 are made of a strong material such as metal.

[0036] The lifting member 31 consists of a pedal fixing part 31a that fixes the pedal 20 and a supported part 31b that is integrally provided with the pedal fixing part 31a. The pedal fixing part 31a is provided to support the front end (toe side) of the pedal 20 and the rear end (heel side) of the pedal 20, and one supported part 31b is also provided for each pedal fixing part 31a. In this way, two lifting members 31 (sets of pedal fixing part 31a and supported part 31b) are provided for each of the pedals 20R for the right foot and 20L for the left foot, so there are a total of four. Each supported part 31b is ring-shaped so that it can be externally fitted onto a guide member 32 (guide post) which will be described later.

[0037] The guide member 32 is for guiding the supported portion 31b of the lifting member 31 in the vertical direction. In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, a columnar member (guide post) erected upward from the base member 10 is used as the guide member 32, and the annular supported portion 31b fitted onto it is guided in the vertical direction. However, the guide member 32 is not limited to such a columnar shape. For example, a plate-shaped member with a vertical groove (guide groove) formed on one side may be used as the guide member 32, and the supported portion 31b may be fitted into the guide groove and guided.

[0038] Typically, one or more guide members 32 are provided on each pedal 20R and 20L. In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, guide members 32 (guide posts) are provided in a total of four locations: on the front side of the right foot pedal 20R, on the rear side of the right foot pedal 20R, on the front side of the left foot pedal 20L, and on the rear side of the left foot pedal 20L.

[0039] By structuring the pedal support mechanism 30 as described above, the pedal 20 can move (slide) in the vertical direction along the guide member 32 while maintaining a nearly horizontal position. Furthermore, since separate pedal support mechanisms 30 are provided for the right foot (right foot pedal support mechanism 30R) and the left foot (left foot pedal support mechanism 30L), the right foot pedal 20R and the left foot pedal 20L can be raised and lowered independently. As a result, the user of the heel stimulator can step with their feet on pedals 20R and 20L.

[0040] In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, when the pedal 20 is pressed down, the lower surface of the pedal 20, or the lower surface of the lifting member 31, comes into contact with the upper surface of the base member 10, so that the pedal 20 does not descend any further (that position becomes the bottom dead center of the pedal 20). However, the defined structure of the bottom dead center of the pedal 20 is not limited to this. For example, a stopper member provided on the outer circumference of the guide member 32 (the outer circumference lower than the lifting member 31) may be provided so that the pedal 20 becomes the bottom dead center when it comes into contact with the lifting member 31, or a spacer member (or stopper member) provided on the upper surface of the base member 10 may be provided so that the pedal 20 becomes the bottom dead center when it comes into contact with the pedal 20 or the lifting member 31.

[0041] 1.4 Heel stimulation protrusion As shown in Figure 1, the heel stimulating protrusions 40 are provided in pairs, one on the left and one on the right. The heel stimulating protrusions 40 can also be attached to the pedals 20R and 20L (see Figure 11 below), but in the heel stimulating device of the first embodiment, the heel stimulating protrusions 40 are fixed to the base member 10. Each heel stimulating protrusion 40 protrudes upward from the base member 10. These heel stimulating protrusions 40 are components for stimulating the heels of the user's feet. The right heel stimulating protrusion 40 stimulates the heel of the right foot (heel stimulating protrusion 40R for the right foot), and the left heel stimulating protrusion 40 stimulates the heel of the left foot (heel stimulating protrusion 40L for the left foot). The heel stimulating projection 40R for the right foot is positioned to overlap the underside of the through-hole 21R of the right foot pedal 20R, and the heel stimulating projection 40L for the left foot is positioned to overlap the underside of the through-hole 21L of the left foot pedal 20L.

[0042] When the pedal 20 is floating above the base member 10 (for example, as shown in Figure 1), the heel stimulation protrusions 40R and 40L are hidden inside or below the through holes 21R and 21L and do not protrude from the top surface of the pedal 20. In contrast, when the pedal 20 is pressed down, as in the right foot pedal 20R in Figure 2 and the left foot pedal 20L in Figure 3, the heel stimulation protrusions 40R and 40L are inserted deeply from below to above the through holes 21R and 21L, and the upper ends of the heel stimulation protrusions 40R and 40L protrude from the top surface of the pedal 20. At this time, the upper ends of the protruding heel stimulation protrusions 40R and 40L stimulate the heel of the user's foot. Therefore, if you place your feet on pedals 20R and 20L and perform foot pedaling, the heels of each foot will be stimulated at the moment each foot touches the ground (when pedals 20R and 20L reach near their bottom dead center).

[0043] The foot-stepping motion performed on the 20R and 20L pedals is not forced by a motor or other drive mechanism, but is performed voluntarily by the user of the heel stimulator. Therefore, the timing of the user's brain recognizing that they have "put their foot down" (landed their foot) coincides with the timing of heel stimulation. Consequently, even though the user is simply stepping on the heel stimulator (performing an exercise with a lower intensity than walking or running), it is possible to provide a more effective stimulus to the heel at the same timing as when walking or running, thereby suppressing the secretion of sclerostin (a substance that inhibits bone mass increase). Thus, it becomes possible to suppress bone loss and increase bone mass.

[0044] Since the heel stimulation projection 40 may bear the weight of the user of the heel stimulation device, the heel stimulation projection 40 is usually made of a hard and strong material such as metal, hard resin, or wood. However, if a hard material comes into direct contact with the heel, the stimulation may become too strong, potentially causing pain to the user. For this reason, the upper part or the entirety of the heel stimulation projection 40 can also be made of a somewhat elastic material such as hard rubber. Furthermore, even if the entire heel stimulation projection 40 is made of a hard material, the stimulation can be mitigated by covering the upper opening of the through-hole 21 with a sheet of a certain thickness (such as a rubber sheet or non-woven fabric).

[0045] The heel stimulating projection 40 is not limited in its specific shape as long as it can stimulate the user's heel with its upper end and can be inserted into the through-hole 21 of the pedal 20. In the heel stimulating device of the first embodiment, the heel stimulating projection 40 is formed in a columnar shape extending in the vertical direction. Since a sharp upper end of the heel stimulating projection 40 could injure the user's foot, the upper end of the heel stimulating projection 40 is rounded (hemispherical).

[0046] 1.5 Connecting wires and pulleys The connecting wire 50 and pulley 60 are used to raise the pedal 20 when the user tries to lift the foot that is placed on the pedal 20 (when one pedal 20 is pressed down, the other pedal 20 is raised).

[0047] The connecting wire 50 is for connecting a pair of left and right pedals 20. One end of the connecting wire 50 is connected to one pedal 20, and the other end of the connecting wire 50 is connected to the other pedal 20. The connecting wire 50 may be connected directly to the pedals 20 or indirectly. In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, the end of the connecting wire 50 is indirectly connected to the pedals 20 via the pedal fixing part 31a. Specifically, one end of the connecting wire 50 is connected to the toe-side pedal fixing part 31a of the right foot pedal 20R, and the other end of the connecting wire 50 is connected to the toe-side pedal fixing part 31a of the left foot pedal 20L.

[0048] The pulley 60 is used to loop the connecting wire 50. In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, a total of four guide members 32 (guide posts) are provided on the upper surface of the base member 10, one in the front, one in the back, one in the left, and one in the right. A pair of pulleys 60 (right pulley 60R and left pulley 60L) are provided near the upper ends of the pair of left and right guide members 32 (guide posts) located in the front (toe side). The connecting wire 50 is looped over these pulleys 60R and 60L. The pedal 20R for the right foot is suspended by the connecting wire 50 extending downward from the right pulley 60R, and the pedal 20L for the left foot is suspended by the connecting wire 50 extending downward from the left pulley 60L.

[0049] As the connecting wire 50 and pulley 60 are arranged as described above, as shown in Figure 2, when the right foot pedal 20R is pressed down, the left foot pedal 20L is pulled upward by the connecting wire 50 and rises, and as shown in Figure 3, when the left foot pedal 20L is pressed down, the right foot pedal 20R is pulled upward by the connecting wire 50 and rises. This makes it possible to raise the pedal 20 when attempting to lift the foot placed on the pedal 20, without the need to provide a biasing member on the underside of the pedal 20 to bias the pedal 20 upward or to attach a member to the pedal 20 to cover the instep of the foot.

[0050] 1.6 Others In the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment described above, the heel stimulation projection 40 was fixed to the base member 20 in a completely immovable state. However, the heel stimulation projection 40 can also be provided in a state that is movable relative to the base member 20. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the heel stimulation projection 40. Figure 4 shows a cross-section cut along a vertical plane containing the center line of the heel stimulation projection 40.

[0051] For example, the heel stimulating projection 40 can be configured as shown in Figure 4(a). The heel stimulating projection 40 in Figure 4(a) consists of a heel stimulator 41, a guide member 42, and a biasing member 43. The heel stimulator 41 is a component for stimulating the heel of the user of the heel stimulator. The upper end of the heel stimulator 41 has a rounded shape for the same reason as the heel stimulating projection 40 (Figure 1) described above. The lower end of the heel stimulator 41 is provided with a flange-shaped stopper portion 41a. The heel stimulator 41 is supported in a state that it can be guided vertically by the guide member 42, which will be described later, and the stopper portion 41a is a part that prevents the heel stimulator 41 from coming out upward from the guide member 42.

[0052] The guide member 42 is a member that supports the heel stimulator 41 in a state that allows it to be guided in the vertical direction. The guide member 42 is formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper end, and the heel stimulator 41 is housed inside the guide member 42. The lower part of the guide member 42 is fixed to the base member 10 in a state that it cannot move.

[0053] The biasing member 43 is housed inside the guide member 42, below the heel stimulator 41. This biasing member 43 biases the heel stimulator 41 upward. Therefore, when no external force (pressure from the user's heel) is applied to the heel stimulator 41, the heel stimulator 41 is positioned at the top dead center position of the guide member 42 (the position where the stopper portion 41a of the heel stimulator 41 is locked to the upper end of the guide member 42). The biasing member 43 is not particularly limited as long as it can bias the heel stimulator 41 upward, and a leaf spring or the like may be used, but in the example in Figure 4(a), a coil spring is used.

[0054] By configuring the heel stimulation projection 40 as shown in Figure 4(a), the heel stimulation projection 40 (heel stimulator 41) can be allowed to sink. In other words, even if the heel of the user of the heel stimulation device hits the upper part of the heel stimulator 41 with force, the heel stimulator 41 can be made to sink, making it less likely for the user to feel pain. The biasing member 43 described above functions as a cushioning means to soften the impact of the heel on the heel stimulator 41.

[0055] Furthermore, the heel stimulation projection 40 can also be biased as shown in Figure 4(b). The heel stimulation projection 40 in Figure 4(b) consists of a heel stimulator 41 and a stimulator support member 44. The heel stimulator 41, like the heel stimulator 41 shown in Figure 4(a), is a component for stimulating the heel of the user of the heel stimulation device, and the upper end of the heel stimulator 41 has a rounded shape. However, unlike the heel stimulator 41 in Figure 4(a), the heel stimulator 41 in Figure 4(b) has an external threaded portion 41b formed on its lower outer circumference. The heel stimulator 41 is supported by the stimulator support member 44, which will be described later, and the external threaded portion 41b is the part that screws into the internal threaded portion 44a of the stimulator support member 44.

[0056] The stimulator support member 44 is a member for supporting the heel stimulator 41 in a height-adjustable state. The stimulator support member 44 is formed in a cylindrical shape with an open upper end. An internal threaded portion 44a is formed on the inner circumference of the stimulator support member 44, and the lower part of the heel stimulator 41 is housed inside the stimulator support member 44 with its external threaded portion 41b screwed into the internal threaded portion 44a of the stimulator support member 44. The lower part of the stimulator support member 44 is fixed to the base member 10 in an immovable state.

[0057] By configuring the heel stimulation projection 40 as shown in Figure 4(b), it becomes possible to adjust the height of the heel stimulation projection 40 (heel stimulator 41). Specifically, when the heel stimulation projection 40 is too high (when the heel stimulator 41 protrudes too much upward from the stimulator support member 44), the amount of protrusion of the heel stimulator 41 can be reduced and the heel stimulation projection 40 can be lowered by twisting the heel stimulator 41 to one side relative to the stimulator support member 44. Conversely, when the heel stimulation projection 40 is too low (when the heel stimulator 41 is too deeply embedded in the stimulator support member 44), the amount of protrusion of the heel stimulator 41 can be increased and the heel stimulation projection 40 can be raised by twisting the heel stimulator 41 to the opposite side relative to the stimulator support member 44. By setting the heel stimulation protrusion 40 higher, the stimulation applied to the heel from the heel stimulation protrusion 40 can be strengthened, and by setting the heel stimulation protrusion 40 lower, the stimulation can be weakened. By making the height of the heel stimulation protrusion 40 adjustable, users of the heel stimulation device can obtain stimulation according to their preferences.

[0058] 2. Heel stimulator according to the second embodiment Next, the heel stimulator of the second embodiment will be described. The heel stimulator of the second embodiment will be described mainly focusing on the configurations that differ from the heel stimulator of the first embodiment. Configurations of the heel stimulator of the second embodiment that are not specifically mentioned can be the same as those described for the heel stimulator of the first embodiment.

[0059] Figures 5-9 show the heel stimulator of the second embodiment. Figures 5-8 are perspective views of the heel stimulator as seen from the front (toe side). Figure 5 shows the right foot pedal 20R and the left foot pedal 20L at the same height, Figure 6 shows the heel stimulator disassembled, Figure 7 shows the left foot pedal 20L pressed down, and Figure 8 shows the right foot pedal 20R pressed down. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the left foot pedal 20L pressed down, cut along a vertical plane containing the center line of the heel stimulator projection 40.

[0060] In the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the base member 10 was plate-shaped, whereas in the heel stimulator of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the base member 10 is composed of a pair of front and rear pipes (front pipe 10a and rear pipe 10b) extending in the left-right direction. The front pipe 10a and the rear pipe 10b are integrally connected via a connecting member 10c extending in the front-rear direction. The heel support projection 40 is provided extending upward from the rear pipe 10b.

[0061] Furthermore, in the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the pedal support mechanism 30 is composed of a pedal support mechanism 30R for the right foot and a pedal support mechanism 30L for the left foot, and each of the pedal support mechanisms 30R and 30L is composed of a pair of front and rear lifting members 31 and a pair of front and rear guide members 32. As a result, each pedal 20R and 20L moves in parallel in the vertical direction while maintaining a nearly horizontal position. In contrast, in the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the pedal support mechanism 30 is composed of a pair of left and right swinging members 33 and a pivot member 34.

[0062] In the heel stimulator of the second embodiment, each oscillating member 33 consists of a pedal fixing portion 33a, a pivoted support portion 33b, and a projection portion 33c, which are provided in front (toe side) of the pedals 20R and 20L. The pedal fixing portion 33a is the part that fixes the pedal 20. The pivoted support portion 33b is a cylindrical part that is pivotally supported by the pivot support portion 34b (Figure 6), which will be described later. The projection portion 33c is a part that protrudes outward from the outer circumference of the pivoted support portion 33b. The end of the connecting wire 50 is fixed near the tip of this projection portion 33c.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the pivot support member 33 consists of a support column 34a erected upward from the middle of the front pipe 10a in the left-right direction, and a pair of pivot support portions 34b extending left and right from near the top of the support column 34a. Each pivot support portion 34b is cylindrical in shape. These pivot support portions 34b are inserted inside the pivot-supported portion 33b of the rocking member 33 described above. As a result, the rocking member 33 is pivotally supported by the pivot support portions 34b. Therefore, the rocking member 33 is in a state where it can swing vertically about the center line L1 relative to the pivot support member 34.

[0064] Furthermore, in the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the connecting wire 50 extends upward from the pedal fixing portion 31a of one of the lifting members 31, is wrapped around a pair of pulleys 60 on the left and right, changes direction downward, and is connected to the pedal fixing portion 31a of the other lifting member 31. In contrast, in the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the connecting wire 50 extends diagonally downward and rearward from the projection portion 33c of one of the oscillating members 33, is wrapped around a pulley 60, changes direction diagonally upward and forward, and is connected to the projection portion 33c of the other oscillating member 33. The pulleys 60 are rotatable about the center line L2 in Figure 9.

[0065] Therefore, as shown in Figure 7, when the left foot pedal 20L is pressed down, the projection 33c on the left oscillating member 33 is displaced forward, and the projection 33c on the right oscillating member 33 is pulled backward by the connecting wire 50, causing the right foot pedal 20R to rise. Also, as shown in Figure 8, when the right foot pedal 20R is pressed down, the projection 33c on the right oscillating member 33 is displaced forward, and the projection 33c on the left oscillating member 33 is pulled backward by the connecting wire 50, causing the left foot pedal 20L to rise.

[0066] By structuring the pedal support mechanism 30 in this way, the pedal 20 can be raised when the user tries to lift their foot that is placed on the pedal 20. In the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the pedal 20 is pressed down, the heel stimulation projection 40 protrudes from the through hole 21 of the pedal 20, stimulating the user's heel. In the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, each pedal 20R, 20L swings around the center line L1 in front of the pedals 20R, 20L, allowing for a more natural stepping motion.

[0067] However, in the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, since the through hole 21 of the pedal 20 follows an arc-shaped trajectory, if the diameter (outer diameter) of the heel stimulation projection 40 is increased (bringing it closer to the diameter (inner diameter) of the through hole 21), the heel stimulation projection 40 is more likely to interfere with the pedal 20. Also, the heel stimulation projection 40 will no longer make perpendicular contact with the heel of the user of the heel stimulation device.

[0068] These problems can be solved by positioning the heel stimulation projection 40 at an angle to the rear, as shown in Figure 10, rather than pointing it straight up. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view (a cross-sectional view cut along a vertical plane including the center line of the heel stimulation projection 40) showing a modified example of the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment. This makes it possible to prevent the heel stimulation projection 40 from interfering with the pedal 20, even if the diameter (outer diameter) of the heel stimulation projection 40 is increased. It is also possible to position the heel stimulation projection 40 perpendicular to the heel of the user of the heel stimulation device. The heel stimulation projection 40 can also be bent in an arc shape around the center line L1.

[0069] 3. Heel stimulator according to the third embodiment Finally, the heel stimulator of the third embodiment will be described. The heel stimulator of the third embodiment will be described mainly focusing on the configurations that differ from the heel stimulators of the first and second embodiments described above. Configurations of the heel stimulator of the third embodiment that are not specifically mentioned can be the same as those described for the heel stimulators of the first and second embodiments.

[0070] Figures 11 and 12 show the heel stimulator of the third embodiment. Figure 11 is a perspective view of the heel stimulator seen from the rear (heel side), and Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the heel stimulator 40 in the heel stimulator (a cross-sectional view showing the area around the heel stimulator 40 cut by a vertical plane including the center line of the heel stimulator 40). Figure 12(a) shows the pedal 20 in the raised position, and Figure 12(b) shows the pedal 20 in the lowered position.

[0071] In the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment (Figures 1-4) and the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment (Figures 5-10), the heel stimulation projection 40 was attached to the base member 10. In contrast, in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, the heel stimulation projection 40 is not attached to the base member 10, but is attached to the through hole 21 in the heel portion of the pedal 20. The heel stimulation projection 40R for the right foot is attached to the through hole 21R of the pedal 20R for the right foot, and the heel stimulation projection 40L for the left foot is attached to the through hole 21L of the pedal 20L for the left foot.

[0072] In other words, in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 4(a), each heel stimulation projection 40 has a large diameter portion 40a and a small diameter portion 40b, and the large diameter portion 40a is designed to be hooked near the upper end of the through hole 21. A stepped portion is formed near the upper end of the through hole 21 to hook the large diameter portion 40a of the heel stimulation projection 40. This prevents the heel stimulation projection 40 from falling out of the through hole 21. The small diameter portion 40b is an axial portion with a smaller diameter (outer diameter) than the large diameter portion 41 and is provided in a state where it protrudes downward from the large diameter portion 40a. The small diameter portion 40b protrudes downward (towards the lower surface of the pedal 20) from the through hole 21.

[0073] As the heel stimulation projection 40 is configured as described above, the heel stimulation projection 40 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the pedal 20 (in a state where the heel can be stimulated) only when the pedal 20 is pressed down. That is, as shown in Figure 12(a), when the pedal 20 is in the raised position (when the pedal 20 is not pressed down), gravity causes the heel stimulation projection 40 to sink in relative to the pedal 20, and the upper end (large diameter portion 40a) of the heel stimulation projection 40 is contained within the through hole 21. However, as shown in Figure 12(b), when the pedal 20 is pressed down and the lower end (lower end of the small diameter portion 40b) of the heel stimulation projection 40 hits the upper surface of the base member 10, the heel stimulation projection 40 is pushed upward, and the large diameter portion 40a of the heel stimulation projection 40 protrudes from within the through hole 21 towards the upper surface of the pedal 20.

[0074] When the pedal 20 is pressed down, the lower end of the heel stimulation projection 40 (the lower end of the small-diameter portion 40b) may directly contact the base member 10. However, in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, it is designed to contact a separate member (cushioning member 80) fixed to the base member 10. The cushioning member 80 is made of a cushioning material such as rubber. If the heel stimulation projection 40 strongly contacts the heel of the user of the heel stimulation device, the user may feel pain. By having the lower end of the heel stimulation projection 40 indirectly contact the base member 10 via the cushioning member 80, the impact applied to the heel from the heel stimulation projection 40 can be mitigated.

[0075] Although not adopted in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, the heel stimulation projection 40 can also be composed of an outer member and an inner member housed inside it, with the outer member protruding upward from the through hole 21, and when the upper end of the outer member and the upper end of the inner member come into contact with the heel, the inner member protrudes further upward from the outer member. This makes it possible to apply a weaker stimulation to the periphery of the heel with the outer member and a stronger stimulation to the central part of the heel with the inner member. The action of making the inner member protrude relative to the outer member can be achieved, for example, by a structure that moves the cap (the part pressed with the finger) of a retractable ballpoint pen forward and backward (a retractable mechanism).

[0076] Furthermore, in the heel stimulator of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, guide members 32 (guide posts) were provided in a total of four locations: on the front (toe side) and rear (heel side) of the right foot pedal 20R, and on the front (toe side) and rear (heel side) of the left foot pedal 20L. In contrast, in the heel stimulator of the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, guide members 32 (guide posts) are provided in a total of two locations: on the front (toe side) of the right foot pedal 20R and on the front (toe side) of the left foot pedal 20L. Therefore, the lifting member 31 is also provided in only two locations: on the front (toe side) of the right foot pedal 20R and on the front (toe side) of the left foot pedal 20L. As a result, the pedal support mechanism 30 in the heel stimulator of the third embodiment can be simplified compared to the heel stimulator of the first embodiment.

[0077] Furthermore, in the heel stimulation device of the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the pulleys 60 consisted of a right pulley 60R and a left pulley 60L. In contrast, in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, in addition to the right pulley 60R and the left pulley 60L, a central pulley 60C is provided. The central pulley 60C is located between the right pulley 60R and the left pulley 60L. This central pulley 60C is supported by a connecting wire adjustment means 70.

[0078] The connecting wire adjustment means 70 supports the central pulley 60C in a state where its vertical position (height) can be adjusted. Even if the vertical positions of the right pulley 60R and the left pulley 60L do not change, if the vertical position of the central pulley 60C changes, the tension of the connecting wire 50 wrapped around its lower side changes. That is, if the vertical position (height) of the central pulley 60C is set lower than the position shown in Figure 11, the connecting wire 50 becomes taut (there is no slack in the connecting wire 50). As a result, the time from when one pedal 20 is pressed down until the other pedal rises is shortened. Conversely, if the vertical position (height) of the central pulley 60C is set higher than the position shown in Figure 11, the connecting wire 50 becomes loose (there is slack in the connecting wire 50). As a result, the time from when one pedal 20 is pressed down until the other pedal rises is lengthened.

[0079] In order to perform natural footwork using a pair of left and right pedals 20, it is preferable that the other pedal 20 rises a short time after one pedal 20 is pressed down. By adjusting the tension of the connecting wire 50 using the connecting wire adjustment means 70, it becomes possible to adjust the time from when one pedal 20 is pressed down until the other pedal rises to an appropriate range.

[0080] The specific structure of the connecting wire adjustment means 70 is not particularly limited. In the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, as shown in Figure 11, the connecting wire adjustment means 70 is composed of a fixed side member 72 and a movable side member 74. The fixed side member 72 is in the shape of a strip and is fixed in a state where it is stretched across the upper ends of a pair of left and right guide members 32 (guide posts). A screw hole is provided in the center of the fixed side member 72, penetrating vertically. On the other hand, the movable side member 74 is attached to the fixed side member 72 in a state where its vertical position can be adjusted. The movable side member 74 is a shaft-shaped member having a screw portion that can be screwed into the screw hole (screw hole of the fixed side member 72), and a central pulley 60C is attached to its lower end. A knob for rotating the movable side member 74 is provided at the upper end of the movable side member 74. When this knob is rotated in one direction, the movable side member 74 (and pulley 60C) descends, and when this knob is rotated in the other direction, the movable side member 74 (and pulley 60C) rises.

[0081] Incidentally, in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, the pedal 20 has a structure in which it moves (slides) in the vertical direction. However, it is also possible to adopt a structure in which the pedal 20 rotates (oscillates) in the vertical direction (see the heel stimulation device of the second embodiment (Figures 5 to 10)). This is because, in the heel stimulation device of the third embodiment, the rear side (heel side) of the pedal 20 is not supported, so the load tends to concentrate on the pedal support mechanism 30. However, if the pedal 20 has a structure in which it rotates (oscillates) in the vertical direction, that load can be relieved by rotation. [Explanation of symbols]

[0082] 10 Base member 10a Front pipe 10b Rear pipe 10c Connecting member 20 pedals 20R Right foot pedal 20L left foot pedal 21 Through hole 21R Right foot pedal through hole 21L Pedal through-hole for left foot 30 Pedal support mechanism 30R Right foot pedal support mechanism 30L Left foot pedal support mechanism 31 Lifting member 31a Pedal fixing part 31b Supported part 32 Guide members 33. Oscillating member 33a Pedal fixing part 33b Axial branch 33c Projection piece 34. Support member 34a Post section 34b Axial support 40 Heel stimulation protrusion 40a Large diameter section 40b Reduced diameter part 40R Heel stimulation protrusion for the right foot 40L heel stimulation protrusion for the left foot 41 Heel stimulator 41a Stopper part 41b External thread section 42 Guide member 43. Biasing member 44 Stimulator support member 44a Internal thread section 50 connecting wires 60 Pulleys 60C Central pulley 60L Left-side pulley 60R Right-side pulley 70 Connecting wire adjustment means 72 Fixed side member 74 Movable side member 80 Cushioning material

Claims

1. A heel stimulator for stimulating the heel, Base member and A pair of pedals, one on each side, for placing your feet on and pressing down, A pedal support mechanism for supporting each pedal in a position where it can be raised and lowered on the upper side of the base member, A pair of heel stimulating protrusions are inserted into a through-hole provided in the heel of the pedal. Equipped with, When the pedal is pressed down, the upper end of the heel stimulating projection protrudes from the through-hole towards the upper surface of the pedal, thereby stimulating the heel of the foot placed on the pedal. When the pedal is raised, the upper end of the heel stimulating protrusion enters the through-hole, preventing it from stimulating the heel of the foot. A heel stimulator characterized by the following:

2. The heel stimulator according to claim 1, wherein the heel stimulating projection is fixed upward from the base member.

3. The heel irritant protrusion, A large-diameter portion that is hooked near the upper end of the through hole, A smaller diameter section is provided that extends downward from the larger diameter section. It has, When the pedal is pressed down, the lower end of the small-diameter portion of the heel stimulation projection comes into contact with the base member or another member fixed to the base member and is pushed upward, causing the large-diameter portion of the heel stimulation projection to protrude from the through-hole towards the upper surface of the pedal. The heel stimulator according to claim 1.

4. A connecting wire that links the left and right pedals, A pulley for guiding the connecting wire and Furthermore, When one pedal is pressed down, the other pedal is pulled up by a connecting wire. When you press down on the other pedal, the pedal on the other side is pulled up by a connecting wire. The heel stimulator according to claim 1, wherein the device is configured to do so.

5. The heel stimulator according to claim 4, further comprising a connecting wire adjustment means for adjusting the tension of the connecting wire.

6. The pedal support mechanism, A lifting member having a pedal fixing part for fixing the pedal, and a supported part integrally provided with the pedal fixing part. A guide member that guides the supported portion in the lifting member in the vertical direction. A heel stimulator according to claim 1, comprising:

7. The pedal support mechanism, A pedal fixing part for fixing the pedal, and a pivot member having a pivot support part integrally provided on the front side of the pedal fixing part, A pivot member that pivotally supports the pivoted portion of the oscillating member so that it can rotate around an axis in the left-right direction. A heel stimulator according to claim 1, comprising:

8. The heel stimulator according to claim 1, further comprising a buffering means that allows the heel stimulating protrusion to sink in.

9. The heel stimulator according to claim 1, further comprising an adjustment means for adjusting the amount of protrusion of the heel stimulator.

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