Massage machine

Abstract

Treat the area to be treated with sufficient intensity. [Solution] The massage machine comprises a frame, a first airbag, and a second airbag. The frame is positioned laterally outward from the treatment area of ​​the person being treated. The first airbag is positioned between the frame and the treatment area in the left-right direction and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air intake and exhaust. The second airbag is positioned between the frame and the first airbag in the left-right direction and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air intake and exhaust. One end of the second airbag in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction is fixed to the frame. The other end is rotatable around the one end.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a massager.

Background Art

[0002] For the airbag of a conventional massager, either a blow-molded airbag or a welded airbag is used. Compared with the welded airbag, the blow-molded airbag has better air supply and exhaust performance, but is hard, so the physical feeling during treatment is inferior. Compared with the blow-molded airbag, the welded airbag is soft, so the physical feeling during treatment is excellent, but the air supply and exhaust performance is inferior.

[0003] As an example of the prior art related to the present invention, Patent Document 1 discloses an air massager device in which an airbag is suspended and fixed to a concave-shaped frame portion. The frame portion has side vertical frame portions on both sides and an intermediate vertical frame portion in the intermediate portion. The airbag consists of a plurality of airbags in the first layer and an airbag in the second layer. The airbags in the first layer are made of a flexible material. The airbag in the second layer is made of a harder material than the airbags in the first layer and is located on the back side of the airbags in the first layer. The plurality of airbags in the first layer are controlled to expand and contract in order to treat the calves in a state where the airbag in the second layer is inflated.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

[0022] to

[0025] and FIG. 1)

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In Patent Document 1, the air bladder is suspended with a double-support structure in the left-right direction. For example, one end of the first and second layer air bladder is attached to the tip of the side vertical frame. The other end is attached to the tip of the intermediate vertical frame. Therefore, when the air bladder inflates, the calf, which is the treatment area, is pressed forward, and the patient's leg is easily pushed forward. Consequently, there is a risk that the treatment area cannot be treated with sufficient force.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to treat the treatment area with sufficient intensity. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, a massage machine according to one aspect of the present invention comprises a frame, a first airbag, and a second airbag. The frame is positioned laterally outward from the treatment area of ​​the person being treated. The first airbag is positioned between the frame and the treatment area in the left-right direction and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air supply and exhaust. The second airbag is made of a harder material than the first airbag, is positioned between the frame and the first airbag in the left-right direction, and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air supply and exhaust. One end of the second airbag in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction is fixed to the frame, and the other end is rotatable around the one end. The air supply and exhaust paths for the first airbag and the second airbag are opened and closed by a common air supply and exhaust control unit. Opening and closing the air supply and exhaust control unit simultaneously starts the supply or discharge of air to the first airbag and the second airbag.

[0008] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be further revealed by the embodiments described below. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the treatment area can be treated with sufficient intensity. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] A schematic perspective view showing an example configuration of a chair-type massage machine according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the control system for controlling the operation of a chair-type massage machine. [Figure 3A] A schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the side treatment section according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3B] A schematic cross-sectional view showing the inflated state of the airbag in the side treatment area according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Schematic diagram showing an example of airbag connection in the lateral treatment section according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] A schematic perspective view showing an example configuration of a chair-type massage machine according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6A] A schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the side treatment section according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6B] A schematic cross-sectional view showing the inflated state of the airbag in the lateral treatment area according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] A schematic perspective view showing an example configuration of a chair-type massage machine according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8A] A schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the side treatment section according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8B] A schematic cross-sectional view showing the inflated state of the airbag in the lateral treatment area according to the third embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0012] <1. First Embodiment> Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an example configuration of a chair-type massage machine 100 according to the first embodiment. In the following description, the chair-type massage machine 100 may be referred to as "massage machine 100".

[0013] In the following description, the front side (front surface side) as viewed from the subject U seated on the massage machine 100 in a state where the backrest portion 102 described later is not reclined is referred to as the "front side", and the back side (rear surface side) as viewed from the subject U seated on the massage machine 100 in a state where the backrest portion 102 is not reclined is referred to as the "back side". Also, the upper side (head side) as viewed from the subject U seated on the massage machine 100 in a state where the backrest portion 102 is not reclined is referred to as the "upper side", and the lower side (leg side) as viewed from the subject U seated on the massage machine 100 in a state where the backrest portion 102 is not reclined is referred to as the "lower side". Further, the right side as viewed from the subject U seated on the massage machine 100 in a state where the backrest portion 102 is not reclined is referred to as the "right side", and the left side as viewed from the subject U seated on the massage machine 100 in a state where the backrest portion 102 is not reclined is referred to as the "left side".

[0014] <1-1. Massage Machine 100> The massage machine 100 includes a seat portion 101, a backrest portion 102, a pair of left and right base portions 104, a pair of left and right armrest portions 105, and an ottoman 106.

[0015] The seat portion 101 supports the buttocks and thighs of the seated subject U.

[0016] The backrest portion 102 is supported at the rear end of the seat portion 101 and supports the head, torso (e.g., shoulder Us, waist, and back), and neck of the subject U. The backrest portion 102 is rotatable about a reclining rotation axis (not shown) extending in the left-right direction. The backrest portion 102 can be reclined backward or raised forward by rotation about the reclining rotation axis.

[0017] On the backrest part 102, a treatment unit 1021 and a pair of left and right guide parts 1022 are arranged. The treatment unit 1021 and the guide part 1022 are arranged inside the cushion part of the backrest part 102. The treatment unit 1021 treats the back of the subject U. The guide part 1022 extends along the longitudinal direction of the backrest part 102 and supports the treatment unit 1021 so as to be movable in the longitudinal direction. That is, the treatment unit 1021 is guided by the guide part 1022 and can move up and down in the longitudinal direction of the backrest part 102.

[0018] In addition, a pair of left and right side treatment parts 1023 are further arranged on the backrest part 102. The side treatment parts 1023 are respectively arranged at the left end part and the right end part of the front surface of the backrest part 102 and protrude forward from the front surface of the backrest part 102.

[0019] In this embodiment, the side treatment parts 1023 are arranged on both sides in the left - right direction of the seated subject U and treat the side parts of the upper body of the subject U. The side treatment parts 1023 are arranged at the same height position as the shoulders Us of the subject U in the longitudinal direction of the backrest part 102 and treat the shoulders Us by the first airbag 1 described later.

[0020] However, the treatment sites of the side treatment parts 1023 are not limited to this example. For example, the side treatment parts 1023 may be arranged at the same height position as the waist of the subject U in the longitudinal direction of the backrest part 102 and treat the waist by the first airbag 1.

[0021] Alternatively, the pair of left and right side treatment parts 1023 may be movable up and down in the longitudinal direction of the backrest part 102. In this way, the side treatment parts 1023 can treat any part on the side of the upper body of the subject U by moving up and down in the longitudinal direction. At this time, the side treatment parts 1023 can move up and down according to a predetermined treatment program or an operation input received by the operation part 1071 described later.

[0022] The base portion 104 is erected on both sides of the seat portion 101 in the left-right direction and supports the armrest portion 105. The armrest portion 105 supports the forearm and hand of the person being treated U. The pair of left and right armrest portions 105 are symmetrical in shape to each other.

[0023] The ottoman 106 is rotatably supported at the front end of the seat 101. The ottoman 106 accommodates the lower legs and feet of the person being treated U. The ottoman 106 is rotatable about a pivot axis (not shown) that extends in the left-right direction below the front end of the seat 101. The ottoman 106 is equipped with, for example, an airbag (not shown) that provides treatment to the lower legs of the person being treated U by inflating and deflating.

[0024] <1-2, Control system for massage machine 100> Next, with reference to Figure 2, an example of the configuration of the control system for the massage machine 100 will be described. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the control system for controlling the operation of the massage machine 100.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, the massage machine 100 further comprises an operating unit 1071, a storage unit 1072, a control unit 108, an actuator group 1091, a pump 1092, and a solenoid valve group 1093.

[0026] The control unit 1071 is an input device for the patient U to select a treatment pattern, adjust the intensity of the treatment, etc. The control unit 1071 is connected to the control unit 108 via a cord. The control unit 1071 receives operation input from the patient U, etc., and outputs a signal based on the operation input to the control unit 108. The control unit 1071 can be attached to and detached from the stand (not shown). The stand is fixed to the armrest 105 located on the left side of the seat 101.

[0027] The memory unit 1072 is a non-transient storage medium that retains stored information even when the power supply is interrupted. For example, the memory unit 1072 stores programs and data necessary for the control unit 108 to control the operation of the massage machine 100.

[0028] The control unit 108 is located, for example, below the seat 101 and controls various parts of the massage machine 100 based on signals output from the operating unit 1071. For example, the control unit 108 controls the actuator group 1091, the pump 1092, and the solenoid valve group 1093.

[0029] The actuator group 1091 includes multiple actuators. For example, the actuator group 1091 includes a backrest actuator for rotating the backrest 102 and an ottoman actuator for rotating the ottoman 106.

[0030] The solenoid valve group 1093 includes solenoid valves provided in the airbag group provided in the massage machine 100. The pump 1092 supplies air to the airbag group via the solenoid valve group 1093. The airbag group described above includes the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2, which will be described later. The solenoid valves described above also include solenoid valves 4, which will be described later, for the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2.

[0031] The solenoid valve switches between inflating, maintaining the inflated / deflated state of the airbag group, and deflating. More specifically, the solenoid valve switches between communication / deactivation between the pump 1092 and the airbag group. For example, when the solenoid valve operates and the pump 1092 and the airbags communicate, air F is supplied from the pump 1092 to the airbags via the solenoid valve. This causes the airbags to inflate. The solenoid valve also switches between communication / deactivation between the airbag group and the outside. For example, when the solenoid valve operates and the airbags communicate with the outside, the airbags are opened to the outside via the solenoid valve. This causes the air F inside the airbags to be released and the airbags to deflate. When the solenoid valve operates and the airbags are no longer communicating with either the pump 1092 or the outside, the amount of air F inside the airbags is maintained, that is, the inflated / deflated state of the airbags is maintained.

[0032] <1-3, Lateral treatment area 1023> Next, an example of the configuration of the lateral treatment section 1023 will be described with reference to Figures 3A to 4. Figure 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the lateral treatment section 1023, and shows the right-side lateral treatment section 1023. Figure 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the inflated state of the airbags 1 and 2 of the lateral treatment section 1023. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the connection of the airbags 1 and 2 of the lateral treatment section 1023.

[0033] Figures 3A and 3B show the cross-sectional structure of the lateral treatment section 1023 viewed from above, cut by a hypothetical plane that includes the dashed line III in Figure 1 and is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the backrest 102. The structure of the lateral treatment section 1023, located on the left side of the patient U, is symmetrical to the configuration in Figures 3A and 3B, and is otherwise the same.

[0034] As shown in Figures 3A to 4, the side treatment section 1023 of the massage machine 100 has a first airbag 1, a second airbag 2, and a frame 3. The surface of the side treatment section 1023 is covered with a stretchable fabric (not shown).

[0035] Frame 3 is positioned to the left and right of the treatment area of ​​the patient U. In this embodiment, frame 3 extends to the front of the backrest 102. In Figures 3A and 3B, the frame 3 of the right-side treatment area 1023 is positioned to the right of the shoulder Us of the patient U and extends forward from the right end of the backrest 102. Preferably, frame 3 is a plate-shaped member that extends in a direction intersecting the left-right direction. However, it is not limited to this example, and frame 3 may be a frame structure.

[0036] The first airbag 1 is positioned between the frame 3 and the treatment area in the left-right direction and can be inflated and deflated in response to air intake and exhaust. The first airbag 1 provides treatment to the treatment area of ​​the person being treated U by inflating and deflating it. The massage machine 100 can provide treatment to the treatment area of ​​the person being treated U from the left-right outer direction by inflating and deflating the first airbag 1. In this embodiment, the treatment area is the shoulder Us of the person being treated U.

[0037] The second airbag 2 is positioned between the frame 3 and the first airbag 1 in the left-right direction and can inflate and deflate in response to air intake and exhaust. The second airbag 2 moves the first airbag 1 relative to the person being treated U. For example, when the second airbag 2 inflates, it moves the first airbag 1 forward toward the person being treated U, bringing it closer to the treatment area. Conversely, when the second airbag 2 deflates, it moves the first airbag 1 backward away from the person being treated U, moving it away from the treatment area.

[0038] The second airbag 2 is made of a harder material than the first airbag 1. Because the second airbag 2 is harder, its air intake and exhaust performance is better than that of the first airbag 1. In particular, when air F is naturally expelled, the exhaust speed of the harder second airbag 2 is faster than that of the first airbag 1. Natural expulsion refers to the expulsion of air F by the pressure difference between the inside and outside without the use of power. As a result, the contraction of the second airbag 2 allows the first airbag 1 to quickly retract relative to the treatment area. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can quickly advance and retract the first airbag 1 relative to the treatment area, enabling rapid implementation and release of treatment on the treatment area by the first airbag 1. In other words, the massage machine 100 can improve the response speed of treatment on the treatment area, and in particular, can quickly release the treatment by the first airbag 1.

[0039] Furthermore, because the first airbag 1 that presses against the treatment area of ​​the patient U is soft, it can provide the patient U with a gentle massage effect.

[0040] In this embodiment, a single first airbag 1 and a single second airbag 2 are positioned on both sides of the patient U in the left-right direction. This configuration allows for the simple construction of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 positioned on both sides of the patient U in the left-right direction. Furthermore, since the number of components can be reduced, the manufacturing cost and number of manufacturing processes of the massage machine 100 can be reduced. However, this example does not exclude a configuration in which at least one of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 positioned on both sides of the patient U in the left-right direction is multiple.

[0041] Furthermore, one end of the second airbag 2 in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction is fixed to the frame 3. The other end of the second airbag 2 is rotatable around the one end of the second airbag 2. In other words, the second airbag 2, positioned between the first airbag 1 and the frame 3, is formed in a cantilever structure in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction.

[0042] Therefore, when the second airbag 2 inflates, its outer side is restricted by the frame 3, and it inflates toward the patient U, rotating around one end. At this time, the first airbag 1 is pushed outward by the second airbag 2 and moves closer to the patient U. Also, because the second airbag 2 is made of rigid material, when it deflates, it rotates to its pre-inflation position due to the elasticity of the support portion at one end. At this time, the first airbag 1 returns to its pre-inflation position due to the contraction of the fabric on the surface of the side treatment portion 1023.

[0043] As a result, the second airbag 2 can rotate rapidly and with a wide range of motion due to inflation and deflation, allowing the first airbag 1 to move significantly toward the treatment area. At the same time, the treatment area is not pushed in a direction that intersects with the left-right direction. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can treat the treatment area with sufficient intensity.

[0044] For example, in Figures 3A and 3B, the rear end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3 together with the rear end of the first airbag 1. The front ends of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are free ends and can rotate around their rear ends. With this configuration, the first airbag 1 can rotate together with the second airbag 2 around the rear end of the second airbag 2. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment while slightly pressing the treatment area toward the backrest 102 with the first airbag 1. Consequently, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment on the treatment area stably and with sufficient force while it is sandwiched between the backrest 102 and the first airbag 1.

[0045] In other words, as shown in Figure 3B, when the second airbag 2 inflates and rotates, the person being treated U is trapped between the contact surface of the person being treated U and the first airbag 1. The contact surface is the surface of the massage machine 100 that comes into contact with the person being treated U, and in Figure 3B, it is the front surface of the backrest 102. As a result, the inflating first airbag 1 rotates in a way that prevents it from slipping away from the treatment area, allowing the massage machine 100 to treat the treatment area stably and with sufficient force.

[0046] However, the examples in Figures 3A and 3B do not exclude a configuration in which the front end of the first airbag 1 is fixed to the frame 3, nor do they exclude a configuration in which the front end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3.

[0047] In this embodiment, the air supply speed of the second airbag 2 is faster than the air supply speed of the first airbag 1. For example, the inflation speed of the second airbag 2 is faster than the inflation speed of the first airbag 1. Therefore, when both the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are inflating, the air supply to the second airbag 2 finishes before the air supply to the first airbag 1.

[0048] Furthermore, when both the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 contract, the exhaust speed of the second airbag 2 is faster than the exhaust speed of the first airbag 1. For example, the contraction speed of the second airbag 2 is faster than the contraction speed of the first airbag 1. Therefore, when both the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 contract, the exhaust from the second airbag 2 is completed before the exhaust from the first airbag 1. With this configuration, the contraction of the second airbag 2 causes the first airbag 1 to move away from the treatment site while remaining inflated. As a result, the cushioning effect of the first airbag 1 is maintained until it moves away from the treatment site, thus preventing a decrease in the patient U's comfort level.

[0049] The first airbag 1 is a bag formed by heat-welding the outer edges of a pair of overlapping base materials 11. As shown in Figure 4, the first airbag 1 has a pair of base materials 11 and an air supply / exhaust port 12. In this embodiment, a urethane-based resin sheet such as thermoplastic polyurethane is used for the base materials 11. The air supply / exhaust port 12 communicates with the inside of the pair of base materials 11 (the internal space of the bag formed by the pair of base materials 11). The first airbag 1 is supplied with air and exhausted through the air supply / exhaust port 12.

[0050] On the other hand, the second airbag 2 is a hollow resin molded product, formed, for example, by blow molding using polyethylene. This makes it easy to create a second airbag 2 that is more rigid than the first airbag 1. Furthermore, it makes it easy to create a second airbag 2 that has faster inflation and deflation speeds than the first airbag 1.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4, the second airbag 2 has a bellows section 21, a base section 22, and an air intake / exhaust port 23. The bellows section 21 is expandable and contractible in the left-right direction in response to air intake and exhaust (see Figures 3A and 3B). That is, the bellows section 21 folds when contracted and expands in the left-right direction in a stepped arrangement when air is supplied. The base section 22 holds the bellows section 21 and is connected to the frame 3.

[0052] In detail, the base section 22 is a flat, hollow box that extends in a direction intersecting the left-right direction. The bellows section 21 is located in the center of the left side and the center of the right side. The intake / exhaust port 23 communicates with the interior of the base section 22 (the hollow region of the box). The second airbag 2 is supplied with air and exhaust through the intake / exhaust port 23.

[0053] With this configuration, the second airbag 2 can inflate and deflate in accordance with the expansion and contraction of the bellows section 21, allowing the first airbag 1 to move forward and backward relative to the treatment site. Since the second airbag 2 is easier to inflate and deflate, the air supply and exhaust speeds of the second airbag 2 can be increased.

[0054] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the air supply and exhaust paths of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2, which are located on one side of the patient U in the left-right direction, are opened and closed by a single solenoid valve 4.

[0055] In detail, the solenoid valve 4 is a three-way valve having air inlets and outlets for air F in three directions. The solenoid valve 4 has a first port 41, a second port 42, and a third port 43. The first port 41 is connected to the air intake / exhaust port 12 of the first airbag 1 and the air intake / exhaust port 23 of the second airbag 2. The second port 42 is connected to the pump 1092. The third port 43 is open to the outside of the massage machine 100. The solenoid valve 4 switches between communication between the first and second ports 41 and 42, and communication between the first and third ports 41 and 43, according to the control of the control unit 108.

[0056] For example, when the first and second ports 41 and 42 are connected, the first and third ports 41 and 43 are blocked. As a result, the air F sent from the pump 1092 is supplied to the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 through the solenoid valve 4. Consequently, the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 inflate. When the pump 1092 is stopped, the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 maintain their inflated and deflated state.

[0057] Furthermore, when the first and third ports 41 and 43 are connected, the first and second ports 41 and 42 are blocked. As a result, the air F inside the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 is discharged to the outside through the solenoid valve 4, respectively, according to the internal pressure of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2. Consequently, the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 deflate.

[0058] With this configuration, the intake and exhaust of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 can be controlled with a simple setup. In addition, the number of solenoid valves 4 attached to the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 can be reduced, thereby lowering the manufacturing cost and number of manufacturing steps for the massage machine 100.

[0059] The examples in this embodiment do not exclude a configuration in which the air supply and exhaust paths of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2, which are located on one side of the patient U in the left-right direction, are opened and closed by a plurality of solenoid valves 4. For example, different solenoid valves 4 may be connected to the air supply and exhaust port 12 of the first airbag 1 and the air supply and exhaust port 23 of the second airbag 2.

[0060] Furthermore, in this embodiment, air F is supplied to and exhausted from the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 through a single path. However, the embodiment is not limited to this example, and air F may be supplied to and exhausted from at least one of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 through different paths.

[0061] Furthermore, the solenoid valve 4 does not have to be a three-way valve. For example, the first airbag 1 may have multiple inlet / outlet ports 12. In this case, the solenoid valve 4 that switches between communication / shutoff between some of the inlet / outlet ports 12 and the pump 1092 may be different from the solenoid valve 4 that switches between communication / shutoff between other inlet / outlet ports 12 and the outside. Also, the second airbag 2 may have multiple inlet / outlet ports 23. In this case, the solenoid valve 4 that switches between communication / shutoff between some of the inlet / outlet ports 23 and the pump 1092 may be different from the solenoid valve 4 that switches between communication / shutoff between other inlet / outlet ports 23 and the outside.

[0062] Preferably, the maximum volume of the second airbag 2 is greater than the maximum volume of the first airbag 1. Here, "maximum volume" refers to the size of the internal volume when the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are fully inflated. Airbags are easier to inflate and deflate the larger their volume. Therefore, with the above configuration, the second airbag 2 can inflate and deflate more quickly. Note that this example does not exclude configurations where the maximum volume of the second airbag 2 is less than or equal to the maximum volume of the first airbag 1.

[0063] For example, when the patient is absent, the second airbag 2 in its most inflated state is thicker in the lateral direction than the first airbag 1 in its most inflated state. In the following, the thickness of the first airbag 1 and second airbag 2 in their most inflated states in the lateral direction may simply be referred to as "thickness." In airbags, the thicker they are, the easier it is for air to be supplied and deflated. Therefore, with the above configuration, the second airbag 2 can be inflated and deflated quickly. In addition, the distance that the first airbag 1 moves forward and backward as the second airbag 2 inflates can be increased. Therefore, even if the patient U is small in stature, the massage machine 100 can quickly and sufficiently apply the first airbag 1 to the treatment area and perform treatment. However, this example does not exclude configurations in which the second airbag 2 in its most inflated state is not thicker in the lateral direction than the first airbag 1 in its most inflated state when the patient is absent.

[0064] Furthermore, when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction, the area of ​​the second airbag 2 is larger than the area of ​​the first airbag 1. In the following, the area projected onto a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction may be referred to as the "projected area." With this configuration, the exhaust speed of the second airbag 2 can be made faster than the exhaust speed of the first airbag 1. This allows the first airbag 1 to maintain its cushioning properties until it leaves the treatment area, while the contraction of the second airbag 2 allows the first airbag 1 to be quickly separated from the treatment area. In addition, the air supply speed of the second airbag 2 can be made faster than the air supply speed of the first airbag 1.

[0065] However, the system is not limited to this example, and the area of ​​the first airbag 1 may be greater than or equal to the area of ​​the second airbag 2 when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction. With this configuration, the first airbag 1 can treat a wide area of ​​the treatment site.

[0066] In order to make the inflation and deflation speeds of the second airbag 2 greater than those of the first airbag 1, it is preferable that the second airbag 2 be larger than the first airbag 1 in at least one of its thickness and projected area.

[0067] <2. Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the side treatment unit 1011 for treating the thigh Ut of the person being treated U is positioned on the seat 101 side. The side treatment units 1011 are positioned on both sides in the left-right direction of the pair of left and right thighs Ut of the person being treated U. Below, the configuration of the second embodiment that differs from that of the first embodiment will be described. Also, the same reference numerals are used for components that are the same as in the first embodiment, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0068] Figure 5 is an external view showing an example configuration of the massage machine 100 according to the second embodiment. Figure 6A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example configuration of the side treatment section 1011, and shows the right side treatment section 1011. Figure 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the inflated state of the airbags 1 and 2 of the side treatment section 1011.

[0069] Figures 6A and 6B show the cross-sectional structure of the lateral treatment section 1011 as viewed from the front, cut by a hypothetical plane that includes the dashed line VI in Figure 5 and is perpendicular to the front-to-back direction. The configuration of the lateral treatment section 1011, located on the left side of the patient U, is symmetrical to the configuration in Figures 6A and 6B, and is otherwise the same.

[0070] In the second embodiment, the frames 3 of the side treatment section 1011 are erected on both sides of the seat 101 in the left-right direction. The frames 3 extend above the upper surface of the seat 101. The surface of the side treatment section 1011 is covered with a stretchable fabric (not shown).

[0071] In Figures 5 to 6B, the frame 3 is the inner wall 1051 of the armrest 105. The inner wall 1051 is a plate-shaped member positioned on the seat 101 side of the armrest 105. The first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 of the side treatment section 1011 are positioned on the side of the inner wall 1051 on the side of the person being treated U. The first airbag 1 treats the thigh Ut of the person being treated U by inflating and deflating. The massage machine 100 can treat the thigh Ut of the person being treated U from the left and right sides outwards by inflating and deflating the first airbag 1.

[0072] Furthermore, the examples in Figures 5 to 6B are not exhaustive, and the frame 3 may be a separate component from the inner wall 1051. For example, the frame 3 may be a component extending upward from both ends of the seat portion 101 in the left-right direction. Alternatively, the frame 3 may be a frame structure.

[0073] In Figures 6A and 6B, the lower end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the inner wall 1051 (i.e., frame 3) together with the lower end of the first airbag 1. The upper ends of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are free ends and can rotate around their lower ends. With this configuration, the first airbag 1 can rotate together with the second airbag 2 around the lower end of the second airbag 2. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment while slightly pressing the treatment area toward the seat 101 with the first airbag 1. Thus, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment on the treatment area stably and with sufficient force while it is sandwiched between the seat 101 and the first airbag 1.

[0074] In other words, as shown in Figure 6B, when the second airbag 2 inflates and rotates, the person being treated U is trapped between the contact surface of the person being treated and the first airbag 1. In Figure 6B, the contact surface is the upper surface of the seat 101. As a result, the inflating first airbag 1 rotates in a way that prevents it from slipping away from the treatment area, allowing the massage machine 100 to treat the treatment area stably and with sufficient force.

[0075] However, the examples in Figures 6A and 6B do not exclude a configuration in the second embodiment in which the upper end of the first airbag 1 is fixed to the frame 3, nor do they exclude a configuration in which the upper end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3.

[0076] <3. Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, a side treatment unit 1066 for treating the lower leg portion Ul of the person being treated U is positioned on the ottoman 106. The "lower leg portion Ul" refers to the portion of the person being treated U's leg from below the knee to the ankle. The side treatment units 1066 are positioned on both sides in the left-right direction of each lower leg portion Ul of the person being treated U. In the following, the configuration of the third embodiment will be described in a way that differs from the first and second embodiments. Also, the same reference numerals will be used for components that are the same as in the first and second embodiments, and their descriptions may be omitted.

[0077] Figure 7 is an external view showing an example configuration of the chair-type massage machine 100 according to the third embodiment. Figure 8A is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example configuration of the lateral treatment section 1066, and shows the lateral treatment section 1066 on the right side of the right leg of the person being treated U. Figure 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the inflated state of the airbags 1 and 2 of the lateral treatment section 1066.

[0078] Figures 8A and 8B show the cross-sectional structure of the lateral treatment portion 1066 as viewed from above, cut by a hypothetical plane that includes the dashed line VIII in Figure 7 and is perpendicular to the vertical direction of the posterior wall portion 1062. The configuration of the lateral treatment portion 1066 located on the right side of the lower leg portion Ul of the left leg of the patient U is the same as the configuration in Figures 8A and 8B. The configuration of the lateral treatment portion 1066 located on the left side of each lower leg portion Ul of the patient U is symmetrical to the configuration in Figures 8A and 8B, and otherwise identical.

[0079] As shown in Figure 7, the ottoman 106 comprises a foot support section 1061, a rear wall section 1062, a pair of left and right side wall sections 1063, and a central wall section 1064. The foot support section 1061 supports the feet of the person being treated U. The rear wall section 1062 extends upward from the rear end of the foot support section 1061 and widens in the left-right direction. The side wall sections 1063 extend forward from the left and right ends of the rear wall section 1062 and widen in the up-down direction. The central wall section 1064 extends forward from the central part of the rear wall section 1062 and widens in the up-down direction.

[0080] Each lower leg portion Ul of the seated patient U is housed in a recess 1065 surrounded by a posterior wall portion 1062, a side wall portion 1063, and a middle wall portion 1064. The posterior wall portion 1062 is positioned behind the lower leg portion Ul of the seated patient U. The side wall portions 1063 are positioned on both sides in the left-right direction relative to the left and right pair of lower leg portions Ul of the seated patient U. The middle wall portion 1064 is positioned between the left and right pair of lower leg portions Ul of the seated patient U in the left-right direction.

[0081] In the third embodiment, the frame 3 of the lateral treatment section 1066, the first airbag 1, and the second airbag 2 are arranged on the ottoman 106. The surface of the lateral treatment section 1066 is covered with a stretchable fabric (not shown).

[0082] Frame 3 is a frame. However, it is not limited to this example, and in at least one side treatment section 1066, frame 3 may be plate-shaped.

[0083] In Figures 8A and 8B, the frame 3 of the lateral treatment unit 1066, positioned to the right of the lower leg Ul of the patient U's right leg, is erected inside the right side wall 1063. The frames 3 of the lateral treatment units 1066, positioned to the left of the lower leg Ul of the patient U's right leg and to the right of the lower leg Ul of the left leg, are erected inside the middle wall 1064. These frames 3 of the lateral treatment units 1066 may be made of the same material or different materials. The frame 3 of the lateral treatment unit 1066, positioned to the left of the lower leg Ul of the patient U's left leg, is erected inside the left side wall 1063.

[0084] The first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 of the lateral treatment section 1066 are positioned on the side of the frame 3 that is on the side of the person being treated U. The first airbag 1 provides treatment to the lower leg ul of the person being treated U by inflating and deflating it. The massage machine 100 can provide treatment to the lower leg ul of the person being treated U from the left and right sides by inflating and deflating the first airbag 1.

[0085] Furthermore, in Figures 8A and 8B, the rear end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3 together with the rear end of the first airbag 1. The front ends of the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are free ends and can rotate around their rear ends. With this configuration, the first airbag 1 can rotate together with the second airbag 2 around the rear end of the second airbag 2. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment while slightly pressing the treatment area toward the rear wall portion 1062 with the first airbag 1. Consequently, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment on the treatment area stably and with sufficient force in a state as if it were being sandwiched between the rear wall portion 1062 and the first airbag 1.

[0086] In other words, as shown in Figure 8B, when the second airbag 2 inflates and rotates, the person being treated U is trapped between the contact surface of the person being treated and the first airbag 1. In Figure 8B, the contact surface is the front surface of the rear wall portion 1062. As a result, the inflating first airbag 1 rotates in a way that prevents it from slipping away from the treatment area, allowing the massage machine 100 to treat the treatment area stably and with sufficient force.

[0087] However, the examples in Figures 8A and 8B do not exclude a configuration in the third embodiment in which the front end of the first airbag 1 is fixed to the frame 3, nor do they exclude a configuration in which the front end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3.

[0088] In the third embodiment, the side treatment unit 1066 is mounted on a chair-type massage machine 100. However, the embodiment is not limited to this example, and the side treatment unit 1066 may also be mounted on a leg massage machine that treats the legs of the person being treated U.

[0089] <4. Remarks> The embodiments described above should be considered illustrative and not restrictive in all respects, and the technical scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments described above, and should be understood to include all modifications that fall within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0090] <5. Summary> The massage machine 100 disclosed herein comprises a frame 3, a first airbag 1, and a second airbag 2. The frame 3 is positioned laterally outward from the treatment area of ​​the person being treated U. The first airbag 1 is positioned between the frame 3 and the treatment area in the left-right direction and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air intake and exhaust. The second airbag 2 is made of a harder material than the first airbag 1, is positioned between the frame 3 and the first airbag 1 in the left-right direction, and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air intake and exhaust. One end of the second airbag 2 in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction is fixed to the frame 3. The other end is rotatable around the one end. (First configuration)

[0091] According to the first configuration described above, the second airbag 2, positioned between the first airbag 1 and the frame 3, is formed in a cantilever structure in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction. This allows the second airbag 2 to rotate quickly and widely by inflation and deflation, enabling the first airbag 1 to move significantly toward the treatment area. In this process, the treatment area is not pushed in a direction intersecting the left-right direction. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can treat the treatment area with sufficient force.

[0092] Furthermore, because the second airbag 2 is rigid, its air intake and exhaust performance is better than that of the first airbag 1. In particular, when air F is naturally expelled, the exhaust speed of the rigid second airbag 2 is faster than that of the first airbag 1. As a result, the contraction of the second airbag 2 allows the first airbag 1 to quickly retract relative to the treatment site.

[0093] Therefore, the massage machine 100 can quickly advance and retract the first airbag 1 relative to the treatment area, enabling rapid implementation and release of treatment on the treatment area by the first airbag 1. In other words, the massage machine 100 can improve the response speed of treatment on the treatment area, and in particular, it can quickly release the treatment of the first airbag 1.

[0094] Furthermore, because the first airbag 1 that presses against the treatment area of ​​the patient U is soft, it can provide the patient U with a gentle massage effect.

[0095] Furthermore, the massage machine 100 disclosed herein comprises a frame 3, a first airbag 1, and a second airbag 2. The frame 3 is positioned laterally outward from the treatment area of ​​the person being treated U. The first airbag 1 is positioned between the frame 3 and the treatment area in the left-right direction and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air intake and exhaust. The second airbag 2 is positioned between the frame 3 and the first airbag 1 in the left-right direction and is capable of inflating and deflating in response to air intake and exhaust. One end of the second airbag 2 in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction is fixed to the frame 3. The other end is rotatable around the one end. When both the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are deflating, the exhaust speed of the second airbag 2 is faster than the exhaust speed of the first airbag 1. (Second configuration)

[0096] According to the second configuration described above, the second airbag 2, positioned between the first airbag 1 and the frame 3, is formed in a cantilever structure in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction. This allows the second airbag 2 to rotate quickly and widely by inflation and deflation, enabling the first airbag 1 to move significantly toward the treatment area. In this process, the treatment area is not pushed in a direction intersecting the left-right direction. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can treat the treatment area with sufficient force.

[0097] Furthermore, when both the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 deflate, the exhaust speed of the second airbag 2 is faster than that of the first airbag 1. As a result, the deflation of the second airbag 2 causes the first airbag 1 to leave the treatment site while still inflated. This maintains the cushioning effect of the first airbag 1 until it leaves the treatment site, thus preventing a decrease in the patient's (U's) comfort level.

[0098] In the second configuration of the massage machine 100 described above, the second airbag 2 may be made of a harder material than the first airbag 1. (Third configuration)

[0099] According to the third configuration described above, because the second airbag 2 is rigid, the intake and exhaust performance of the second airbag 2 is better than that of the first airbag 1. In particular, when air F is naturally expelled, the exhaust speed of the rigid second airbag 2 is faster than that of the first airbag 1. Therefore, the contraction of the second airbag 2 allows the first airbag 1 to quickly retract relative to the treatment site.

[0100] Therefore, the massage machine 100 can quickly advance and retract the first airbag 1 relative to the treatment area, enabling rapid implementation and release of treatment on the treatment area by the first airbag 1. In other words, the massage machine 100 can improve the response speed of treatment on the treatment area, and in particular, it can quickly release the treatment of the first airbag 1.

[0101] Furthermore, because the first airbag 1 that presses against the treatment area of ​​the patient U is soft, it can provide the patient U with a gentle massage effect.

[0102] In any of the first to third configurations described above, the massage machine 100 may be configured such that the first airbag 1 is a bag formed by heat-welding the outer edges of a pair of overlapping base materials 11, and the second airbag 2 is a hollow resin molded product. (Fourth configuration)

[0103] According to the fourth configuration described above, a second airbag 2 that is more rigid than the first airbag 1 can be easily realized. Furthermore, a second airbag 2 that deflates faster than the first airbag 1 can be easily realized.

[0104] In the fourth configuration of the massage machine 100 described above, the second airbag 2 may have a configuration in which a bellows section 21 that can be extended and retracted in the left-right direction and a base section 22 that holds the bellows section 21 and is connected to the frame 3. (Fifth configuration)

[0105] According to the fifth configuration described above, the second airbag 2 can be inflated and deflated in accordance with the expansion and contraction of the bellows section 21, and the first airbag 1 can be moved forward and backward relative to the treatment site. Since the second airbag 2 becomes easier to inflate and deflate, the supply and exhaust speeds of the second airbag 2 can be increased.

[0106] In any of the first to fifth configurations described above, the massage machine 100 may be configured such that the exhaust paths in the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 are opened and closed by a single solenoid valve 4. (Sixth configuration)

[0107] According to the sixth configuration described above, the exhaust from the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 can be controlled with a simple configuration. In addition, the number of solenoid valves 4 attached to the first airbag 1 and the second airbag 2 can be reduced, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost and number of manufacturing processes for the massage machine 100.

[0108] In any of the above-described configurations 1 to 6, the massage machine 100 may be configured such that the maximum volume of the second airbag 2 is greater than the maximum volume of the first airbag 1. (Configuration 7)

[0109] According to the seventh configuration described above, the larger the volume, the easier it is to inflate and deflate, so the second airbag 2 can inflate and deflate quickly.

[0110] In the massage machine 100 of any of the above configurations 1 to 7, the second airbag 2 in its most inflated state may be configured to be thicker in the left-right direction than the first airbag 1 in its most inflated state when there is no patient present. (Configuration 8)

[0111] According to the eighth configuration described above, the thicker the airbag, the easier it is to inflate and deflate, so the second airbag 2 can inflate and deflate quickly. In addition, the distance that the first airbag 1 moves forward and backward as the second airbag 2 inflates can be increased. Therefore, even if the person being treated U is small in stature, the massage machine 100 can quickly and sufficiently apply the first airbag 1 to the treatment area and perform the treatment.

[0112] The massage machine 100 in any of the above configurations 1 to 8 may be configured such that the area of ​​the second airbag 2 is larger than the area of ​​the first airbag 1 when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction. (Configuration 9)

[0113] According to the ninth configuration described above, the exhaust speed of the second airbag 2 can be made faster than the exhaust speed of the first airbag 1. This allows the first airbag 1 to be quickly separated from the treatment site by the contraction of the second airbag 2, while maintaining the cushioning effect of the first airbag 1 until it leaves the treatment site.

[0114] Alternatively, the massage machine 100 in any of the above configurations 1 to 8 may be configured such that, when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction, the area of ​​the first airbag 1 is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the second airbag 2. (Configuration 10)

[0115] According to the tenth configuration described above, the first airbag 1 can treat a wide area of ​​the treatment site.

[0116] The massage machine 100 having any of the first to ten configurations described above further includes a backrest 102 that supports the torso of the person being treated U, the frame 3 extends forward from the backrest 102, and the first airbag 1 may be configured to treat the shoulders Us or waist of the person being treated U by inflating and deflating. (Eleventh configuration)

[0117] According to the 11th configuration described above, the inflation and deflation of the first airbag 1 allows the treatment area (shoulder Us, waist) of the person being treated to be treated from the left and right sides outwards.

[0118] The massage machine 100 in the 11th configuration described above may be configured such that the rear end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3. (12th configuration)

[0119] According to the 12th configuration described above, the first airbag 1 can rotate together with the second airbag 2 around the rear end of the second airbag 2. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment while slightly pressing the treatment area toward the backrest 102 with the first airbag 1. Thus, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment on the treatment area stably and with sufficient force in a state where it is sandwiched between the backrest 102 and the first airbag 1.

[0120] The massage machine 100 having any of the first to ten configurations described above further comprises a seat 101 that supports the thigh Ut of the person being treated U, the frame 3 extends above the upper surface of the seat 101, and the first airbag 1 may be configured to treat the thigh Ut of the person being treated U by inflating and deflating. (Third configuration)

[0121] According to the 13th configuration described above, the massage machine 100 can treat the thigh Ut of the person being treated U from the left and right sides by inflating and deflating the first airbag 1.

[0122] The massage machine 100 in the 13th configuration described above may be configured such that the lower end of the second airbag 2 is fixed to the frame 3. (14th configuration)

[0123] According to the 14th configuration described above, the first airbag 1 can rotate together with the second airbag 2 around the lower end of the second airbag 2. Therefore, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment while slightly pressing the treatment area toward the seat 101 with the first airbag 1. Thus, the massage machine 100 can perform treatment on the treatment area stably and with sufficient force while it is sandwiched between the seat 101 and the first airbag 1.

[0124] The massage machine 100 according to any of the first to tenth configurations described above further comprises an ottoman 106 for accommodating the lower leg portion Ul of the person being treated U, and the frame 3, the first airbag 1, and the second airbag 2 are arranged on the ottoman 106, and the first airbag 1 may be configured to treat the lower leg portion Ul by inflating and deflating. (Fifth configuration)

[0125] According to the 15th configuration described above, the inflation and deflation of the first airbag 1 allows treatment to be performed on the lower leg portion Ul of the patient U from the left-right lateral direction.

[0126] In any of the configurations described above (1 to 15), the massage machine 100 may be configured such that when the second airbag 2 inflates and rotates, the person being treated U is sandwiched between the contact surface of the person being treated and the first airbag 1. (Configuration 16)

[0127] According to the 16th configuration described above, the inflating first airbag 1 rotates to prevent it from slipping off the treatment area, so the massage machine 100 can treat the treatment area stably and with sufficient force. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0128] 100 (Chair-type) Massage Machine 101 Seat area 1011 Lateral treatment area 102 Backrest 1021 Treatment Unit 1022 Guide Section 1023 Lateral treatment area 104 Base section 105 Armrest 1051 Interior wall section 106 Ottoman 1061 Foot support 1062 Rear wall 1063 Side wall section 1064 Middle wall part 1065 recess 1066 Lateral treatment area 1071 Operation unit 1072 Storage section 108 Control Unit 1091 Actuator Group 1092 pump 1093 Solenoid valve group 1. First airbag 11 Base material 12 Supply / discharge port 2. Second airbag 21 Bellows 22 Base part 23 Supply / discharge port 3 frames 4. Solenoid valve 41 Port 1 43 Port 2 41 Port 3 F Air U: Patient Us Shoulder Ut thigh Ul lower leg

Claims

1. A frame positioned to the left and right of the treatment area of ​​the patient, A first airbag is positioned between the frame and the treatment area in the left-right direction and is capable of expanding and contracting in accordance with the intake and exhaust of air, A second airbag, made of a harder material than the first airbag, is positioned between the frame and the first airbag in the left-right direction and is capable of expanding and contracting in response to air intake and exhaust, Equipped with, One end of the second airbag in the lateral and perpendicular directions is fixed to the frame, and the other end is rotatable around the one end. The intake and exhaust paths in the first airbag and the second airbag are opened and closed by a common intake and exhaust control unit. A massage machine in which the supply or discharge of air to the first airbag and the second airbag is simultaneously initiated by opening or closing the aforementioned supply and exhaust control unit.

2. The massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the intake and exhaust control unit switches between the intake and exhaust of the intake and exhaust path.

3. The aforementioned second airbag, The bellows section expands in a stepped manner from side to side when air is drawn in, A base portion that holds the bellows section and is connected to the frame, A massage machine according to claim 2, having the following features.

4. The massage machine according to claim 3, wherein, by supplying air, the bellows portion of the second airbag, at least on the other end side, directly moves the first airbag back and forth in the direction of the treatment area between the first airbag and the second airbag.

5. The massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the maximum volume of the second airbag is less than or equal to the maximum volume of the first airbag.

6. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, when the person to be treated is absent, the second airbag in its most inflated state is thicker in the left-right direction than the first airbag in its most inflated state.

7. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the area of ​​the first airbag, when projected onto a plane perpendicular to the left-right direction, is greater than or equal to the area of ​​the second airbag.

8. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one end of the first airbag in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction is fixed to the frame together with the one end of the second airbag in the direction perpendicular to the left-right direction.

9. The device further comprises a backrest for supporting the person receiving treatment, The frame extends forward from the backrest, The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first airbag provides treatment to the shoulder or waist of the person being treated by inflating or deflating.

10. The following further comprises a seat for supporting the person receiving treatment: The frame extends above the upper surface of the seat, The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first airbag provides treatment to the thigh or buttocks of the person being treated by inflating and deflating.

11. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the rear end or lower end of the second airbag is fixed to the frame.

12. The system further includes an ottoman for accommodating the lower leg of the person receiving treatment, The frame, the first airbag, and the second airbag are arranged in the ottoman. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first airbag provides treatment to the lower leg by inflating and deflating.

13. The massage machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein when the second airbag inflates and rotates, the person being treated is trapped between the contact surface of the person being treated and the first airbag.

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