Massage units and chair-type massage machines

Abstract

The intensity of the massage is adjusted according to the area being treated. [Solution] The massage unit comprises a pair of left and right massage members provided on a base, and a drive mechanism that brings the pair of left and right massage members closer together or further apart to generate a kneading motion on the treatment area. The drive mechanism includes a rotating shaft that is rotated around an axis oriented horizontally, a drive unit that rotates the rotating shaft, and a kneading motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft into a left-right oscillating motion. The pair of massage members provided on the left and right include an arm portion whose base end is supported by the kneading motion conversion unit, and a treatment element provided at the tip of the arm portion. The treatment element includes a first treatment element provided on the upper part of the tip of the arm portion, and a second treatment element provided on the lower part of the tip of the arm portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a massage unit and a chair-type massage machine.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, as a massage unit provided with a plurality of treatment elements at the tip of an arm portion, massage machines (massage devices) of Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 are known.

[0003] The massage unit of the massage machine of Patent Document 1 includes a first massage member (kneading arm member) and a grasping arm member that massage the neck muscles and shoulders of a user sitting on a chair and leaning against the back body, and a second massage member that massages from the upper side to the lower side (shoulder to waist) of the back. A kneading treatment element is provided above the tip of the kneading arm member, and a kneading treatment element is also provided below the tip of the kneading arm member.

[0004] The massage machine of Patent Document 1 is provided with an angle changing unit for switching the inclination angle of the pillow body, and the protruding amount and position of the kneading treatment element can be changed by the angle changing unit. When the pillow body inclines obliquely forward downward, the upper kneading treatment element protrudes forward, and when the pillow body inclines obliquely forward upward, the lower kneading treatment element protrudes forward. That is, in the massage unit of Patent Document 1, the state of pressing the upper kneading treatment element against the treatment part, the state of pressing the lower kneading treatment element against the treatment part, and the state of pressing both of them against the treatment part are variable.

[0005] The massage device of Patent Document 2 has a massage mechanism (massage unit) for performing treatment on a treatment part. The massage device includes a single drive motor whose rotation direction can be switched between forward and reverse, a first massage mechanism for performing kneading massage on the treatment part of the user, and a power transmission mechanism capable of transmitting the rotational driving force of the drive part to the first massage mechanism.

[0006] In the massage device described in Patent Document 2, the first massage mechanism exclusively performs kneading massage, and the first massage mechanism has a kneading therapist that performs kneading massage on the treatment area of ​​the user, such as the shoulders, back, and waist. The kneading therapist in Patent Document 2, like that in Patent Document 1, has an upper kneading therapist and a lower kneading therapist at the tip of the kneading arm member. In other words, in the massage device described in Patent Document 2, the contact state of the upper kneading therapist and the lower kneading therapist with respect to the treatment area is variable depending on the treatment area. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-195713 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-029722 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0008] By the way, in the massage machines (massage devices) of Patent Documents 1 and 2, both the upper and lower kneading elements have a smooth, cylindrical appearance with a smooth outer surface. When such kneading elements with a smooth and wide surface are pressed against the treatment area, the massage sensation is soft, and it is difficult to impart a strong massage sensation. Furthermore, regardless of whether the upper or lower kneading element, which have almost the same appearance, is selected, it is not possible to make a significant difference in the massage sensation applied to the treatment area.

[0009] On the other hand, there is a growing need these days to be able to significantly change the intensity of the massage sensation applied to the treatment area. For example, users have expressed a desire for a softer massage sensation when massaging their shoulders or back, but a stronger massage sensation when massaging their lower back, etc.

[0010] Regarding such requests, the massage devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not allow for any change in the intensity of the massage sensation felt by the therapist when the massage device comes into contact with the treatment area, regardless of whether the massage device is moved to the upper or lower part of the treatment area.

[0011] This disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a massage unit and a chair-type massage machine that can change the intensity of the massage sensation depending on the area being treated. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] A massage unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a pair of left and right massage members provided on a base, and a drive mechanism that moves the pair of left and right massage members closer together and further apart to generate a kneading motion on a treatment area, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a rotating shaft that is rotated around an axis oriented horizontally, a drive unit that rotates the rotating shaft, and a kneading motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft into a left-right oscillating motion, and the pair of massage members arranged on the left and right each comprises an arm portion whose base end is supported by the kneading motion conversion unit, and a treatment element provided at the tip of the arm portion, and the treatment The massage unit comprises a first treatment element provided at the upper part of the tip of an arm and a second treatment element provided at the lower part of the tip of the arm, wherein the first treatment element has a first contact surface that is a curved surface that orbits around a first axis extending intersecting the longitudinal direction of the arm and is capable of contacting the treatment area, and the second treatment element has a second contact surface that is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis extending intersecting the longitudinal direction of the arm and is capable of contacting the treatment area, and the first contact surface has a larger area than the second contact surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to this disclosure, the intensity of the massage sensation can be changed depending on the area being treated. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] It is a perspective view of the chair-type massage machine of the present embodiment as seen from the front left. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view of the massage unit of the present embodiment as seen from the lower front left. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view of the massage mechanism provided in the massage unit of the present embodiment. [Figure 4] It is an exploded view of the left massage member and the drive mechanism. [Figure 5A] It is an exploded view of the left massage member as seen from the right side. [Figure 5B] It is an exploded view of the left massage member as seen from the front. [Figure 6A] It is a bottom view of the second treatment element as seen from below. [Figure 6B] It is a cross-sectional view of the second treatment element cut along the X-X line of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7] It is a conceptual diagram comparing the ways of hitting the treatment element at the treatment parts of the back and waist.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] <Overview of the Embodiment of the Present Disclosure> Hereinafter, the overview of the embodiment of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0016] (1) The massage unit according to this embodiment has a pair of left and right massage members provided on a base, and a drive mechanism that generates a kneading motion against a treatment part by moving the pair of left and right massage members closer and farther apart. The drive mechanism includes a rotating shaft that is rotationally driven about an axis facing the horizontal direction, a drive part that rotationally drives the rotating shaft, and a kneading motion conversion part that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft into a swinging motion in the left-right direction. The pair of left and right massage members each have an arm part whose base end is supported by the kneading motion conversion part, and a treatment element provided at the tip of the arm part. The treatment element has a first treatment element provided at the upper part of the tip of the arm part and a second treatment element provided at the lower part of the tip of the arm part. In the massage unit, the first treatment element is a curved surface that orbits around a first axis extending in a crossing manner in the longitudinal direction of the arm part with respect to the tip of the arm part, and has a first contact surface that can contact the treatment part. The second treatment element is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis extending in a crossing manner in the longitudinal direction of the arm part with respect to the tip of the arm part, and has a second contact surface that can contact the treatment part. The first contact surface has a larger area than the second contact surface.

[0017] (2) In the above (1), the first contact surface has a smooth surface. The first treatment element presses the first contact surface against the treatment part to perform massage. The second contact surface has one or more protrusions on its surface. The second treatment element may press the protrusions against the treatment part to perform massage.

[0018] (3) In the above (2), the first axis may be provided in a direction inclined upward and forward, and the second axis may be provided in a direction inclined downward and backward.

[0019] (4) In the above (2), the first axis and the second axis may intersect so as to face different directions in the left-right direction.

[0020] (5) In the above (2), at least two or more protrusions may be formed around the second axis.

[0021] (6) In (2) above, the line indicating the direction of projection of the projection, which extends from the intersection point where a line extending vertically through the center of the second treatment element intersects with the upper surface of the second treatment element toward the tip of the projection, may be set at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the upper surface of the second treatment element.

[0022] (7) In (2) above, a pair of massage members are provided on the left and right sides below each massage member, and a gripping massage member is provided below the treatment unit to perform a gripping massage between itself and the second treatment unit, and the drive mechanism has a gripping motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the rotation shaft into an up-and-down oscillating motion, and the gripping massage member has a gripping arm portion whose base end is supported by the gripping motion conversion unit, and a gripping treatment unit provided at the tip of the gripping arm portion, and the second shaft may be arranged to face the gripping treatment unit.

[0023] (8) The chair-type massage machine according to this embodiment may have a seat, a backrest, a massage unit according to any one of (1) to (7) above, arranged in the backrest, and a guide mechanism for guiding the massage unit from the user's shoulders to their waist.

[0024] (9) The massage unit according to this embodiment comprises a pair of left and right massage members provided on a base, and a drive mechanism that moves the pair of left and right massage members closer together and further apart to generate a kneading motion on the treatment area, the drive mechanism comprising a rotating shaft that is rotated around an axis oriented horizontally, a drive unit that rotates the rotating shaft, and a kneading motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft into a left-right oscillating motion, the pair of massage members arranged on the left and right each comprises an arm portion whose base end is supported by the kneading motion conversion unit, and a treatment element provided at the tip of the arm portion, the treatment element being at the tip of the arm portion A massage unit having a first treatment element provided at the top and a second treatment element provided at the lower part of the tip of the arm, wherein the first treatment element has a first contact surface that is a curved surface that orbits around a first axis that extends intersectingly in the longitudinal direction of the arm and is capable of contacting the treatment area with respect to the tip of the arm, and the second treatment element has a second contact surface that is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis that extends intersectingly in the longitudinal direction of the arm and is capable of contacting the treatment area with respect to the tip of the arm, the first contact surface has a smooth surface and the second contact surface has one or more protrusions on its surface.

[0025] (10) In (9) above, the first contact surface may have a larger area than the second contact surface.

[0026] <Details of the embodiments of this disclosure> The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. At least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any way.

[0027] Figure 1 schematically shows a chair-type massage machine 2 equipped with the massage unit 1 of this embodiment.

[0028] The chair-type massage machine 2 of this embodiment is a seat-type massage machine that is placed on the seat of a chair with a backrest, such as a sofa, and is positioned between the user and the chair's seat, and between the user and the chair's backrest to perform a massage. The massage unit 1 of this embodiment is built into the backrest portion 3 of the seat-type massage machine.

[0029] The chair-type massage machine 2 disclosed herein may be not only a seat-type massage machine, but also a chair-type massage machine 2 commonly known as a massage chair or similar. In a massage chair-type chair-type massage machine, the massage machine itself has a chair structure, and the massage mechanism is built into the backrest from which the user leans. Therefore, the massage unit 1 disclosed herein may be used as the massage mechanism built into the backrest of a massage chair-type chair-type massage machine.

[0030] Furthermore, in massage chair-type chair massage machines, a seat massage mechanism may be provided inside the seat to massage the user's lower limbs. The massage unit 1 of this disclosure can also be used in the seat massage mechanism of a massage chair-type chair massage machine. In addition, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure may be used in the massage mechanism of a stationary massage machine that is placed on the floor or other surface.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the chair-type massage machine 2 of this embodiment has a backrest 3 and a seat 4. Inside the backrest 3 are a massage unit 1 that massages the treatment areas of the user U, such as the neck, shoulders, back, waist, and buttocks, and a guide mechanism 5 that guides the massage unit 1 from the user U's neck to the treatment areas of the buttocks.

[0032] In the following explanation, the "left-right direction," "front-back direction," and "up-down direction" as seen from the perspective of user U seated in the chair-type massage machine 2 will be referred to as the "left-right direction," "front-back direction," and "up-down direction" when describing the massage unit 1 and the chair-type massage machine 2. The "left-right direction," "front-back direction," and "up-down direction" are illustrated with arrows in the representative drawings.

[0033] The seat portion 4 is constructed by combining rectangular bar-shaped members. The entire seat portion 4 is covered with a casing 13 and a sheet, and a cushioning member is provided on its upper surface.

[0034] The backrest portion 3 is a component provided at the rear of the seat portion 4 and is formed in a thick, flat shape so that the user can lean against it. The backrest portion 3 is equipped with a back massage mechanism that massages the user's back. In the chair-type massage machine 2 of this embodiment, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure is used for the back massage mechanism.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1, the guide mechanism 5 has a guide rail 6 arranged vertically inside the backrest 3. In this embodiment, one guide rail 6 is provided on the right side of the backrest 3. Multiple rack sections 7 are formed on the guide rail 6 along the rail laying direction, and the massage unit 1 is provided with a travel gear 8 (pinion) that meshes with the rack sections 7. By using the travel motor 9 to rotate the travel gear 8 in forward and reverse directions, the massage unit 1 can move (up and down) along the laying direction (vertical direction) of the guide rail 6. The guide rail 6 is formed between the upper end and the lower end of the backrest 3, and the guide mechanism 5 can guide the massage unit 1 from the treatment area of ​​the user's shoulder to the treatment area of ​​their waist.

[0036] In this embodiment, a rack and pinion type guide mechanism is used, but a ball screw type guide mechanism can also be used in the chair-type massage machine 2 of this disclosure.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the massage unit 1 includes a pair of left and right massage members 11 mounted on a base 10, and a drive mechanism 12 that moves the pair of left and right massage members 11 closer together and further apart in the left-right direction to generate a kneading motion on the treatment area. In this embodiment, the base 10 is a horn-shaped member that supports the massage members 11 and the drive mechanism 12. A casing 13 is provided on the front of the base 10, and the massage members 11 and the drive mechanism 12 are arranged on the front of the base 10 behind the casing 13.

[0038] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the internal mechanism of the massage unit 1 from the front left.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the massage member 11 of this embodiment includes a left massage member 11L provided on the left side of the massage unit 1 and a right massage member 11R provided on the right side of the massage unit 1. The massage member 11 includes an arm portion 14 whose base end (rear end) is supported by a drive mechanism 12 (more specifically, a kneading motion conversion unit 39, which will be described later), and a treatment element 15 positioned at the tip of the arm portion 14.

[0040] In the massage unit 1 of this disclosure, the treatment element 15 includes a first treatment element 16 provided on the upper part of the tip of the arm portion 14 and a second treatment element 17 provided on the lower part of the tip of the arm portion 14. The first treatment element 16 has a first contact surface 18 that can contact the treatment area, and the second treatment element 17 has a second contact surface 19 that can contact the treatment area. The first contact surface 18 has a larger area than the second contact surface 19, and by distributing the pressing force over a larger area and applying it to the treatment area, a soft massage sensation can be provided. Since the second contact surface 19 has a smaller area than the first contact surface 18, the second treatment element 17 can apply a larger pressing force to the treatment area, and can provide a stronger massage sensation to the treatment area than the first treatment element 16. The presence of multiple treatment elements 15 with such differences in contact area is a characteristic feature of the massage unit 1 of this disclosure.

[0041] In the following sections, before describing the drive mechanism 12 that provides a massage motion to the treatment element 15 (massage member 11) and the massage motion itself, we will first describe the treatment element 15 (first treatment element 16 and second treatment element 17). The treatment element 15 consists of a left treatment element 15L provided on the left massage member 11L and a right treatment element 15R provided on the right massage member 11R. The left treatment element 15L and the right treatment element 15R are identical in structure except that their arrangement is symmetrical. Therefore, in the following explanation, we will use the left treatment element 15L provided on the left massage member 11L as an example to describe the treatment element 15.

[0042] Figure 5A is a right side view of the left first treatment element 16L and the left second treatment element 17L provided on the left massage member 11L, as seen from the right, and Figure 5B is a front view of the left first treatment element 16L and the left second treatment element 17L provided on the left massage member 11L, as seen from the front.

[0043] As shown in Figure 5A, the left arm portion 14L is formed such that, when viewed from the right, its extension direction switches at the midpoint in the front-rear direction. The left arm portion 14L from the axis O1 of the rotation axis 20 to the midpoint in the front-rear direction extends slightly upward and forward. The left arm portion 14L from the midpoint in the front-rear direction to the front end extends slightly downward and forward.

[0044] When the extension direction of the left arm portion 14L from the middle to the front end in the front-rear direction is defined as the longitudinal direction L1 of the left arm portion 14L, the first treatment element 16 is formed to protrude from the tip of the left arm portion 14L in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction L1 of the left arm portion 14L.

[0045] A left first support shaft 21 is formed on the upper surface of the front end of the left arm portion 14L, extending forward and upward. The left first support shaft 21L is formed in a cylindrical shape with a first axis a1 as its central axis. The first axis a1 extends vertically (forward and upward in this embodiment) through the center of the left first treatment element 16L. At the intersection point P1 located at the front end of the left arm portion 14L, the first axis a1 and the longitudinal direction L1 of the left arm portion 14L intersect at an intersection angle θ1. In this embodiment, when viewed from the right (left), the left first support shaft 21L extends forward and upward from the intersection point P1, and when viewed from the front, it extends vertically upward from the intersection point P1, with an intersection angle θ1 of approximately 70° to 90°.

[0046] The left first treatment element 16L has a curved surface on its outer circumference such that it has a circular cross-section when cut along a plane perpendicular to the first axis a1. The curved surface of the left first treatment element 16L has a shape such that the outer diameter around the first axis a1 decreases as it goes upwards. In other words, the left first treatment element 16L has an outer diameter shape like an upright egg. Inside the left first treatment element 16L, there is a left first insertion hole 22L through which the left first support shaft 21L can be inserted. The left first treatment element 16L is attached to the front end of the left arm portion 14L in an upwardly projecting manner by inserting the left first support shaft 21L through the left first insertion hole 22L from above the left first support shaft 21L. On the outer circumferential surface of the upper end of the left first support shaft 21L, there is a left first retaining portion 23L which is formed to have a larger diameter than the outer diameter of the lower end of the left first support shaft 21L. When the left first support shaft 21L is inserted through the left first insertion hole 22L, the left first retaining part 23L is fitted into the left first insertion hole 22L, thereby fixing the left first treatment element 16L to the left first support shaft 21L so that it does not come out. A heater, consisting of an LED or the like, which warms the left first treatment element 16L to provide a warming sensation to the user, is attached to the left first support shaft 21L in a concave mounting part 24.

[0047] As shown in Figures 4, 5A, and 5B, the left first treatment element 16L has a left first contact surface 18L that is a curved surface that revolves around the first axis a1 and can contact the treatment area. In this embodiment, the left first treatment element 16L is rotatably mounted on the left first support shaft 21L around the first axis a1, and all parts of the outer circumferential surface of the left first treatment element 16L that revolves around the first axis a1 can contact the treatment area. In other words, the left first contact surface 18L is the entire outer circumferential surface of the left first treatment element 16L that revolves around the first axis a1.

[0048] The left first contact surface 18L has a smooth surface that is continuous in the direction along the first axis a1 and also continuous in the direction circumferentially around the first axis a1. Note that "smooth surface" means a surface that is smoothly continuous and free of irregularities, and does not mean a flat surface.

[0049] The left second treatment element 17L is formed at the tip of the left arm portion 14L so as to protrude in the opposite direction to the left first treatment element 16L (towards the rear and downward) in a direction that intersects the longitudinal direction L1 of the left arm portion 14L.

[0050] A left second support shaft 25L extending downward and rearward is formed on the lower surface of the front end of the left arm portion 14L. The left second support shaft 25L is formed in a cylindrical shape with the second axis a2 as its central axis. The second axis a2 extends vertically (downward and rearward in this embodiment) through the center of the left second treatment element 17L. At the intersection point P1 located at the front end of the left arm portion 14L, the first axis a1 and the second axis a2 intersect at an angle θ2.

[0051] In this embodiment, the left second support shaft 25L extends inclined downward and backward from intersection point P1 when viewed from the right (left), and extends inclined downward and left from intersection point P1 when viewed from the front. The angle θ2 at which the first axis a1 and the second axis a2 intersect is approximately 5° to 30°.

[0052] The left second treatment element 17L has a curved surface on its outer circumference such that it has a circular cross-section when cut along a plane perpendicular to the second axis a2. The curved surface of the left second treatment element 17L has a shape such that the outer diameter centered on the second axis a2 decreases as it goes downwards. In other words, the left second treatment element 17L is formed in a hemispherical shape downwards. The left second treatment element 17L is formed to be shorter in length in the vertical direction than the left first treatment element 16L, and in this embodiment, its length in the vertical direction is about 1 / 3 that of the left first treatment element 16L. Inside the left second treatment element 17L, there is a left second insertion hole 26L through which the left second support shaft 25L can be inserted. The left second treatment element 17L is attached to the front end of the left arm portion 14L in a downward-projecting manner by inserting the left second support shaft 25L from below into the left second insertion hole 26L. A left second retaining portion 27L is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the lower end of the left second support shaft 25L, and is formed to have a larger diameter than the outer diameter of the upper end of the left second support shaft 25L. When the left second support shaft 25L is inserted through the left second insertion hole 26L, the left second retaining portion 27L fits inside the left second insertion hole 26L, thereby fixing the left second treatment element 17L to the left second support shaft 25L and preventing it from coming out.

[0053] The left second treatment element 17L is a curved surface that orbits the second axis a2 and has a left second contact surface 19L that can contact the treatment area. The left second contact surface 19L is formed on the outer circumference of the left second treatment element 17L, but unlike the left first treatment element 16L, the left second treatment element 17L has one or more protrusions 28, and therefore the left second contact surface 19L includes the outer surface of the protrusions 28. Since the protrusions 28 of the left second contact surface 19L project outward from the center of the left second treatment element 17L, when the left second treatment element 17L is pressed against the treatment area, the tips of the protrusions 28 first make contact with the treatment area. However, not all of the left second treatment element 17L and its outer surface make contact with the treatment area.

[0054] For example, when the left second treatment element 17L is pressed against the treatment area, the tip of the projection 28 that contacts the treatment area is included in the left second contact surface 19L. However, the outer surface of the projection 28 has parts that do not contact the treatment area even when pressed against it, such as the area near the base of the projection 28. Also, even in the parts of the hemispherical outer surface where the projection 28 is not formed, there are parts that do not contact the treatment area even when pressed against it, such as the outer surface near the projection 28. Therefore, the left second contact surface 19L that is substantially able to contact the treatment area is a part of the outer surface of the left second treatment element 17L including the tip of the projection 28, and is a much smaller area than the left first contact surface 18L.

[0055] As shown by the dashed line in Figure 5B, the left gripping therapist 29L is positioned inward in the left-right direction (width direction) of the massage unit 1 of this embodiment, as viewed from the left second therapist 17L. As described above, in this embodiment, the second axis a2 is inclined inward in the left-right direction (width direction) by an angle θ2 with respect to the first axis a1, so it can also be said that the left second therapist 17L is mounted so as to be oriented toward the left gripping therapist 29L.

[0056] In the massage unit 1 of this embodiment shown in Figures 5A and 5B, an example is given in which the second axis a2 is oriented toward the left gripping treatment element 29L at the lowest swinging position. However, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure may also have the second axis a2 oriented toward the left gripping treatment element 29L at the highest swinging position, or toward the left gripping treatment element 29L at an intermediate swinging position in the vertical direction.

[0057] Figure 6A is a bottom view of the left second treatment element 17L as seen from the extension direction of the second axis a2. Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the left second treatment element 17L, cut along a cutting plane (line XX in Figure 6A) that includes the second axis a2 in the plane and passes through intersection point P2 at the center of the tip of the projection 28.

[0058] As shown in Figure 6A, the left second treatment element 17L has one or more protrusions 28 around the second axis a2 (intersection P1). In this embodiment, since the left second treatment element 17L is arranged to be rotatable around the second axis a2 with respect to the left second support shaft 25L, multiple protrusions 28 are provided so that even if the left second treatment element 17L rotates, one of the multiple protrusions 28 will contact the treatment area. However, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure also includes a configuration in which the left second treatment element 17L does not rotate with respect to the left second support shaft 25L. When the left second treatment element 17L does not rotate with respect to the second axis a2, the protrusions 28 are arranged to protrude in the direction of projection of the left second treatment element 17L (in this embodiment, downward and rearward and to the right). In this way, even if there is only one protrusion 28, the tip of the protrusion 28 can be made to contact the treatment area. In other words, in the massage unit 1 of this disclosure, there are cases in which the left second treatment element 17L rotates and cases in which it does not rotate, so one or more projections 28 are provided.

[0059] In this embodiment, when the left second treatment element 17L is rotatably positioned relative to the second axis a2, it is preferable to arrange at least two or more projections 28, preferably four or more, around the second axis a2 in order to bring the tip of each projection 28 into contact with the treatment area.

[0060] As shown in Figure 6A, in the case of the left second treatment element 17L of this embodiment, the left second treatment element 17L has six protrusions 28 around the second axis a2. All six protrusions 28 project along a line a3 that passes from intersection P1 through intersection P2, which is located at the center of the tip of each protrusion 28. In other words, line a3 indicates the direction of projection of each protrusion 28. When viewed from the direction of extension of the second axis a2 (bottom of the paper in Figure 6A), the lines a3 of each protrusion 28 extend radially from intersection P1 with an angle θ3 between them. In this embodiment, the angle θ3 between adjacent lines a3 is 60° between any two protrusions 28.

[0061] As shown in Figure 6B, the second axis a2 intersects the upper surface of the left second treatment member 17L (more precisely, the longitudinal direction L1 of the left arm portion 14L) at intersection P1. A line a3 is formed between intersection P1 and intersection P2 for each of the protrusions 28. The angle that line a3 makes with respect to the upper surface of the left second treatment member 17L is θ4. The angle θ4 that line a3 makes with respect to the upper surface of the left second treatment member 17L is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees (for example, an angle such as 30°, 45°, or 60°). In this embodiment, the angle θ4 is 30°.

[0062] Next, we will describe the left massage member 11L having the left treatment element 15L mentioned above, the left gripping massage member 30L having the left gripping treatment element 29L, and the drive mechanism 12 that causes the left massage member 11L to perform a massage operation.

[0063] As shown in Figures 4 and 5A, a left first rotation restricting portion 31L is provided at the base end of the left arm portion 14L to restrict the left arm portion 14L from rotating integrally with the rotation axis 20. The left first rotation restricting portion 31L connects the left arm portion 14L to the base 10 in such a way that it allows displacement of the left arm portion 14L along the left-right direction while restricting displacement of the left arm portion 14L along the up-down direction (the rotation direction of the rotation axis 20). In this embodiment, the left first rotation restricting portion 31L is a first restricting pin 32 formed at the base end of the left arm portion 14L, and by inserting this first restricting pin 32 (left first rotation restricting portion 31L) into a restricting groove 33 provided in the base 10, the rotation of the left arm portion 14L is restricted while allowing swinging along the left-right direction. The first restricting pin 32 formed as the left first rotation restricting portion 31L is formed to extend upward and rearward from the base end of the left arm portion 14L. The regulating groove 33 is formed in a regulating member 34 located on a base 10 positioned at the rear upper part when viewed from the left side of the rotation axis 20. The regulating groove 33 has a groove width slightly wider than the outer diameter of the first regulating pin 32 and a groove length longer than the groove width in the left-right direction. By inserting the first regulating pin 32, which is the left first rotation regulating part 31L, into the regulating groove 33 of the regulating member 34, the displacement of the left arm portion 14L along the vertical direction is restricted, and the displacement of the left arm portion 14L along the left-right direction is permitted.

[0064] Furthermore, the left first rotation restricting portion 31L of this disclosure may use a ball joint or an elongated hole and a pin that can be inserted through the elongated hole.

[0065] The massage unit 1 of this embodiment includes a gripping massage member 30 that, in cooperation with the massage member 11, grips and massages the treatment area in an up-and-down direction. The gripping massage member 30 includes a left gripping massage member 30L that grips and massages between itself and the left massage member 11L (left second treatment element 17L), and a right gripping massage member 30R that grips and massages between itself and the right massage member 11R (right second treatment element 17R).

[0066] The gripping massage member 30 will also be explained using the left gripping massage member 30L as an example, similar to the left massage member 11L.

[0067] The left-grip massage member 30L has a left-grip arm portion 35L whose base end is supported by a drive mechanism 12 (more specifically, a left-grip motion conversion portion 40L described later), and a left-grip treatment element 29L positioned at the tip of the left-grip arm portion 35L.

[0068] As shown in Figure 3, the left gripping arm portion 35L is a long, arm-shaped member. One end of the arm extends forward and downward from the base 10, while the other end extends backward and upward from the base 10, with the middle portion supported by the base 10 via the drive mechanism 12. In this embodiment, the middle portion of the left gripping arm portion 35L is supported by the base 10 via the drive mechanism 12 (more specifically, the left second annular fitting portion 56L, which will be described later). A left gripping treatment element 29L is attached to one end (front end or lower end) of the left gripping arm portion 35L. The other end (rear end or upper end) of the left gripping arm portion 35L is provided with a left second rotation restricting portion that restricts the left gripping arm portion 35L from rotating integrally with the rotation axis 20.

[0069] The left second rotation restricting section connects the left gripping arm 35L to the base 10 in such a way that it restricts the displacement of the left gripping arm 35L along the front-rear direction while allowing displacement of the left gripping arm 35L along the up-down direction. In this embodiment, the left second rotation restricting section is an elongated hole formed at the other end (rear end or lower end) of the left gripping arm 35L, and a second restricting pin 37 provided on the base 10 is inserted through this elongated hole (left second rotation restricting section 36L). The elongated hole formed as the left second rotation restricting section is elongated in the vertical direction when viewed from the left, and is formed in a curved shape (approximately C-shaped) that bulges forward in the middle from the upper end of the hole to the lower end of the hole. The left second rotation restricting portion is formed in the curved shape (approximately C-shape) described above, and by inserting the second restricting pin 37 provided on the base 10 into the left second rotation restricting portion, the displacement of the left gripping arm portion 35L along the front-rear direction is restricted (only the displacement of the bulge along the front-rear direction of the elongated hole is permitted), and the displacement of the left gripping arm portion 35L along the up-down direction is permitted.

[0070] Furthermore, the left second rotation restricting portion of this disclosure may use a ball joint or a long hole and a pin that can be inserted through the long hole.

[0071] The left-hand gripping treatment element 29L is located at the tip (front or lower end) of the left-hand gripping arm 35L, and performs a gripping massage on the treatment area by sandwiching it between the left-hand gripping treatment element 15L and the treatment area from above and below. The left-hand gripping treatment element 29L is formed in a flat shape that is wider in the left-right direction than in the vertical direction. The tip (front end) of the left-hand gripping arm 35L is connected to the rear end of the left-hand gripping treatment element 29L.

[0072] As shown in Figure 3, the drive mechanism 12 of this embodiment includes a rotating shaft 20 that is rotated around an axis oriented horizontally, a drive unit 38 that rotates the rotating shaft 20, a kneading motion conversion unit 39 that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft 20 into a left-right oscillating motion and oscillates the massage member 11 in the left-right direction, and a gripping motion conversion unit 40 that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft 20 into an up-down oscillating motion and oscillates the gripping massage member 30 in the up-down direction.

[0073] The rotating shaft 20 is a shaft located at the lower part of the base 10 (massage mechanism) and extends in the left-right direction. The rotating shaft 20 is supported by the base 10 so as to be rotatable around its axis which faces left-right. An input gear 41, which can rotate integrally with the rotating shaft 20, is provided at the middle of the rotating shaft 20 in the left-right direction (slightly to the left of the center). A drive unit 38 that rotates the rotating shaft 20 is located above the rotating shaft 20 inside the base 10.

[0074] The drive unit 38 is equipped with a drive motor 42 that generates rotational driving force. In the massage unit 1 of this embodiment, the drive motor 42 is located on the upper part of the base 10 and has a drive shaft 42a that extends downward. The drive shaft 42a is a shaft whose axis is oriented in the vertical direction, and the rotational driving force of the drive motor 42 is transmitted to it. Between the drive shaft 42a and the input gear 41 (rotating shaft 20), there are multiple transmission gears 43 (in this embodiment, a gear provided on the drive shaft 42a and two gears provided on an intermediate shaft located between the drive shaft 42a and the rotating shaft 20) that reduce the rotational driving force transmitted to the drive shaft 42a and transmit it to the input gear 41. By providing such multiple transmission gears 43, the rotational driving force of the drive motor 42 is reduced and transmitted to the input gear 41 (rotating shaft 20).

[0075] The kneading motion conversion unit 39 includes a left kneading motion conversion unit 39L provided on the left side of the rotating shaft 20 and a right kneading motion conversion unit 39R provided on the right side of the rotating shaft 20. The gripping motion conversion unit 40 includes a left gripping motion conversion unit 40L provided on the right side of the left kneading motion conversion unit 39L on the left side of the rotating shaft 20 and a right gripping motion conversion unit 40R provided on the left side of the right kneading motion conversion unit 39R on the right side of the rotating shaft 20.

[0076] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the left-hand kneading motion conversion unit 39L, separated in the direction of the axis of the rotation shaft 20 (left-right direction).

[0077] As shown in Figure 4, the left-hand twisting motion conversion unit 39L has a left first boss portion 44L and a left second boss portion 45L located to the right of the left first boss portion 44L. A left first cam surface 49L is formed between the left first boss portion 44L and the left second boss portion 45L.

[0078] The left first boss portion 44L is formed in a cylindrical shape (a cylinder lying on its side with its axis facing left to right) around the axis of the rotating shaft 20 which is oriented in the left-right direction. The left side surface of the left first boss portion 44L is formed in a planar shape along a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating shaft 20, and the right side surface of the left first boss portion 44L is formed in a planar shape along a direction that intersects the axis of the rotating shaft 20 at an inclination. A first shaft hole 47 is formed in the center of the left first boss portion 44L through which the rotating shaft 20 is inserted.

[0079] The left second boss portion 45L is formed in a multi-stage cylindrical shape (a multi-stage cylindrical shape in which smaller cylinders are stacked on either side of a larger cylinder lying on its side) around the axis of the rotation shaft 20 which is oriented in the left-right direction. The left side surface of the left second boss portion 45L is formed in a planar shape along a direction that intersects the axis of the rotation shaft 20 at an inclination, and the right side surface of the left second boss portion 45L is formed in a planar shape oriented perpendicular to the axis of the rotation shaft 20. The left side surface of the left second boss portion 45L is parallel to the right side surface of the left first boss portion 44L.

[0080] A cylindrical left first cam portion 48L is formed on the left side of the left second boss portion 45L, projecting to the left. The left first cam portion 48L is formed cylindrically around an axis that extends inclined with respect to the axis of the rotation shaft 20. The left first cam portion 48L is formed cylindrically with a smaller outer diameter than the central part of the left second boss portion 45L, and a left first cam surface 49L is formed on its outer circumference. In other words, the left first cam surface 49L is formed between the left side of the left second boss portion 45L and the right side of the left first boss portion 44L.

[0081] The left first annular fitting portion 50L, which is provided at the base end of the left massage member 11L (left arm portion 14L), is slidably fitted onto the left first cam surface 49L.

[0082] A second shaft hole 51 is formed in the center of the left second boss portion 45L, through which the rotating shaft 20 is inserted. The second shaft hole 51 penetrates the cylindrical center of the left second cam portion 55L in an inclined direction and communicates with the second shaft hole 51 of the left first cam portion 48L.

[0083] The left first annular fitting portion 50L is formed as a cylindrical hole that penetrates the base end of the left arm portion 14L in the left-right direction. The left first annular fitting portion 50L has a circular opening when viewed from the left-right direction and has an opening diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the left first cam portion 48L. The left first cam portion 48L of the left second boss portion 45L is inserted through the left first annular fitting portion 50L, and the base end of the left arm portion 14L is rotatable relative to the left first cam portion 48L. In other words, since the left first cam portion 48L is formed in a cylindrical shape around an axis that is inclined with respect to the axis of the rotation shaft 20, the left arm portion 14L is rotatable around an axis that is inclined with respect to the axis of the rotation shaft 20.

[0084] As shown in Figure 4, the left gripping motion conversion section 40L has a left second boss section 45L and a left third boss section 53L located to the right of the left second boss section 45L. A left second cam surface 54L is formed between the left second boss section 45L and the left third boss section 53L.

[0085] In this embodiment, the left second boss portion 45L serves both as a component of the left kneading motion conversion portion 39L and as a component of the left gripping motion conversion portion 40L. In the massage unit 1 of this disclosure, the boss member that functions as the left kneading motion conversion portion 39L and the boss member that functions as the left gripping motion conversion portion 40L may be provided separately.

[0086] Specifically, as shown in Figure 4 and other figures, a cylindrical left second cam portion 55L projecting to the right is formed on the right side of the left second boss portion 45L of this embodiment. The left second cam portion 55L is formed in a cylindrical shape with a smaller outer diameter than the central portion of the left second boss portion 45L, and is formed in a cylindrical shape around an axis that extends in the axial direction (along the left-right direction) of the rotating shaft 20. A left second cam surface 54L is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the left second cam portion 55L into which the left second annular fitting portion 56L slides. The left second cam surface 54L has a cylindrical raceway that orbits around an axis located at an eccentric position from the axis of the rotating shaft 20. A second shaft hole 51 is formed in the left second boss portion 45L through which the rotating shaft 20 is inserted. The second shaft hole 51 penetrates the left second cam portion 55L in the left-right direction at an eccentric position from the cylindrical center.

[0087] The left second annular fitting portion 56L is formed as a cylindrical hole that penetrates the middle portion of the left gripping arm portion 35L in the left-right direction. The left second annular fitting portion 56L has a circular opening when viewed from the left-right direction and has an opening diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the left second cam portion 55L. The left second annular fitting portion 56L is slidably fitted onto the left second cam surface 54L (left second cam portion 55L) of the left second boss portion 45L. In other words, since the left second cam surface 54L is formed in a cylindrical shape around an axis that is eccentric to the axis of the rotation shaft 20, the middle portion of the left gripping arm portion 35L is also rotatable around an axis that is eccentric to the axis of the rotation shaft 20.

[0088] The left third boss portion 53L is formed in a cylindrical shape around the axis of the rotating shaft 20, which is oriented in the left-right direction. A third shaft hole 57 is formed in the center of the left third boss portion 53L through which the rotating shaft 20 is inserted. The third shaft hole 57 is formed along the left-right direction. The left side surface of the left third boss portion 53L is formed in a planar shape oriented perpendicular to the axis of the rotating shaft 20, and the right side surface of the left third boss portion 53L is formed in a planar shape that intersects the axis of the rotating shaft 20 at an inclination. The left side surface of the left third boss portion 53L is parallel to the right side surface of the left second boss portion 45L. The third shaft hole 57 is in communication with the first shaft hole 47 and the second shaft hole 51.

[0089] In contrast to the left arm portion 14L, left first rotation restrictor portion 31L, and left treatment element 15L (left first treatment element 16L and left second treatment element 17L) of the left massage member 11L described above, the right massage member 11R has a right arm portion 14R, a right first rotation restrictor portion, and a right treatment element 15R (right first treatment element 16R and right second treatment element 17R) arranged symmetrically from left to right. Similarly, in contrast to the left gripping massage member 30L described above, which has a left gripping arm portion 35L, a left second rotation restrictor portion, and a left gripping treatment element 29L, the right gripping massage member 30R has a right gripping arm portion 35R, a right second rotation restrictor portion 36R, and a right gripping treatment element 29R arranged symmetrically from left to right. These members have a similar structure except for the fact that they are arranged symmetrically from left to right. Therefore, we will omit the explanation of the right massage member 11R and the right gripping massage member 30R.

[0090] As described above, the left first cam surface 49L formed on the left second boss portion 45L of the left massage member 11L is formed in a cylindrical shape around an axis that extends inclined with respect to the axis of the rotation shaft 20. The right second boss portion 45R of the right massage member 11R, which is provided in a symmetrical arrangement with the left massage member 11L, also has a right first cam surface 49R formed thereon. The left first cam surface 49L and the right first cam surface 49R are symmetrically arranged, and the inclination direction of the cam surfaces is opposite on the left and right (reversed left and right). In other words, when the left massage member 11L, which is fitted onto the left first cam surface 49L, swings to the left, the right massage member 11R, which is fitted onto the right first cam surface 49R, swings to the right. Also, when the left massage member 11L, which is fitted onto the left first cam surface 49L, swings to the right, the right massage member 11R, which is fitted onto the right first cam surface 49R, swings to the left. In this way, the left massage member 11L and the right massage member 11R repeatedly move closer together and further apart in the left-right direction, allowing the massage unit 1 to perform kneading massage on the treatment area located between the left massage member 11L and the right massage member 11R.

[0091] The left second boss portion 45L of the left gripping motion conversion section 40L and the right second boss portion 45R of the right gripping motion conversion section 40R have a second shaft hole 51 at an eccentric position from the center of the cylinder and rotate around an axis eccentric with respect to the axis of the rotation axis 20 (second shaft hole 51). The left gripping massage member 30L, which fits onto the left second cam surface 54L of the left second boss portion 45L, and the right gripping massage member 30R, which fits onto the right second cam surface 54R of the right second boss portion 45R, restrict the displacement of the left gripping arm portion 35L and the right gripping arm portion 35R in the front-rear direction, and allow the displacement of the left gripping arm portion 35L and the right gripping arm portion 35R in the up-down direction, by inserting regulating pins into the left second rotation restricting portion and the right second rotation restricting portion 36R. In other words, the left gripping massage member 30L and the right gripping massage member 30R repeatedly oscillate in the vertical direction, enabling them to perform gripping massage on the treatment area located between the left gripping treatment element 29L and the left treatment element 15L (left second treatment element 17L), and on the treatment area located between the right gripping treatment element 29R and the right treatment element 15R (right second treatment element 17R).

[0092] Next, the massage operation of the massage unit 1 of this embodiment will be explained using Figure 7.

[0093] Figure 7 shows the position of the massage unit 1 relative to the treatment area of ​​the user, and the massage action performed by the treatment element 15 at each position.

[0094] First, let's explain the case where the massage unit 1 is in a position corresponding to the treatment area on the back (for example, near the shoulder blades) (hereinafter referred to as the first position).

[0095] When the massage unit 1 is in the first position, the treatment area bulges backward, so of the treatment elements 15, the first treatment element 16 contacts the treatment area, while the second treatment element 17 does not. The first treatment element 16 contacts the treatment area via the first contact surface 18, which has a smooth surface that is continuous in the direction along the first axis a1 and also continuous in the direction circumferentially around the first axis a1. Furthermore, the area of ​​the first contact surface 18 is larger than that of the second contact surface 19. Therefore, the pressing force applied to the treatment element 15 is distributed across the large area of ​​the first contact surface 18, and the massage sensation applied to the treatment area is not strong.

[0096] Specifically, when the drive motor 42 of the drive mechanism 12 is driven and the rotational driving force of the drive shaft 42a is transmitted to the rotating shaft 20, the rotating shaft 20 is rotated, the rotational driving force is converted by the left kneading motion conversion unit 39L and the right kneading motion conversion unit 39R, and the massage member 11 swings from side to side. The left first cam surface 49L of the left kneading motion conversion unit 39L and the right first cam surface 49R of the right kneading motion conversion unit 39R have opposite inclination directions on the left and right (they are reversed left and right), so the left massage member 11L and the right massage member 11R swing in opposite directions on the left and right. As a result, in the massage unit 1 at the first position, the left massage member 11L and the right massage member 11R repeatedly move closer together and further apart in the left and right directions, kneading and massaging the treatment area.

[0097] As described above, in the first position of the massage unit 1, the pressure applied to the treatment element 15 is distributed across the large area of ​​the first contact surface 18, and the massage sensation applied to the treatment area is not strong. Therefore, the treatment area of ​​the back can be gently kneaded and massaged. The treatment area of ​​the back has protruding parts such as the shoulder blades, and a weaker massage sensation is often preferred over a strong one. Therefore, the massage unit 1 of this embodiment can knead and massage the treatment area of ​​the back with a soft massage sensation that is optimal for the treatment area.

[0098] In the explanation above, the first position was exemplified as the area of ​​treatment on the back, but similar effects can be obtained if the first position is the neck or other areas where a softer (gentler) massage sensation is preferred.

[0099] Next, we will explain the case where the massage unit 1 is in a position corresponding to the treatment area of ​​the lower back (hereinafter referred to as the second position).

[0100] When the massage unit 1 is in the second position (from the waist to near the buttocks), the treatment area is recessed forward, so of the treatment elements 15, the first treatment element 16 does not contact the treatment area, while the second treatment element 17 does. In particular, the treatment area of ​​the waist has a contour that slopes backward from top to bottom, making it easy for the second treatment element 17, which is located at the bottom of the arm 14, to make contact.

[0101] The second treatment element 17 contacts the treatment area via the second contact surface 19. However, the second contact surface 19 that is substantially capable of contacting the treatment area is only a portion of the outer surface of the second treatment element 17, including the tip of the projection 28, and is a much smaller area than the first contact surface 18. Therefore, the pressing force applied to the treatment element 15 is concentrated on the small area of ​​the second contact surface 19, and the massage sensation applied to the treatment area becomes stronger.

[0102] In the second position of the massage unit 1, as in the first position, the left massage member 11L and the right massage member 11R repeatedly move closer together and further apart in the left-right direction, kneading and massaging the treatment area. As described above, in the second position of the massage unit 1, the pressing force applied to the treatment element 15 is not dispersed much by the small area of ​​the second contact surface 19, and the massage sensation applied to the treatment area becomes stronger. Therefore, it is possible to knead and massage the treatment area of ​​the lower back while applying a strong massage sensation.

[0103] In the second position, the treatment area of ​​the lower back is located deep beneath the body surface, so a strong massage sensation is often preferred over a weak one. Therefore, the massage unit 1 of this embodiment can knead and massage the treatment area of ​​the lower back with an optimally strong massage sensation.

[0104] In the explanation above, the second position was exemplified as a location corresponding to the treatment area of ​​the lower back, but similar effects can be obtained if the second position is the buttocks or other areas where a stronger massage sensation is preferred.

[0105] The massage unit 1 of this embodiment is configured to provide a soft massage sensation to treatment areas that protrude backward, such as the back, and a strong massage sensation to treatment areas that concave forward, such as the waist. However, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure can also provide different massage sensations to any treatment area by changing the inclination angle of the base 10. For example, the inclination angle of the base 10 can be changed by partially changing the inclination angle of the guide rail 6 of the guide mechanism 5. In addition, the inclination angle of the base 10 can be changed by providing a link mechanism or the like to the base 10 so that the base 10 can be changed to an upright position or a reclined position. In this way, it is possible to selectively provide different massage sensations to any treatment area.

[0106] The massage unit 1 of this disclosure comprises a pair of left and right massage members 11 (left massage member 11L and right massage member 11R) provided on a base 10, and a drive mechanism 12 that brings the pair of left and right massage members 11 (left massage member 11L and right massage member 11R) closer together and further apart to generate a kneading motion on the treatment area. The drive mechanism 12 comprises a rotating shaft 20 that is rotated around an axis facing horizontally, a drive unit 38 that rotates the rotating shaft 20, and a kneading motion conversion unit 39 that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft 20 into a left-right oscillating motion. The pair of massage members 11 (left massage member 11L and right massage member 11R) are arranged on the left and right sides, and the base end of each arm portion is supported by the kneading motion conversion unit 39. The massage unit comprises an arm 14 and a treatment element 15 positioned at the tip of the arm 14, wherein the treatment element 15 comprises a first treatment element 16 provided at the upper part of the tip of the arm 14 and a second treatment element 17 provided at the lower part of the tip of the arm 14. The first treatment element 16 has a first contact surface 18 that is a curved surface that orbits around a first axis a1 extending intersecting the longitudinal direction L1 of the arm 14 with respect to the tip of the arm 14 and is capable of contacting the treatment area. The second treatment element 17 has a second contact surface 19 that is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis a2 extending intersecting the longitudinal direction of the arm 14 with respect to the tip of the arm 14 and is capable of contacting the treatment area. The first contact surface 18 has a larger area than the second contact surface 19.

[0107] According to this, since the first contact surface 18 has a larger area than the second contact surface 19, the pressing force transmitted to the first treatment element 16 via the arm portion 14 is dispersed over the large area of ​​the first contact surface 18, and the pressing force on the treatment area is weakened, resulting in a softer massage sensation on the treatment area. On the other hand, since the second contact surface 19 has a smaller area than the first contact surface 18, the pressing force transmitted to the second treatment element 17 via the arm portion 14 is not dispersed over the small area of ​​the second contact surface 19, and the pressing force on the treatment area is stronger than that of the first treatment element 16, resulting in a stronger massage sensation on the treatment area. Therefore, in the massage unit 1 of this disclosure, the strength of the massage sensation on the treatment area can be changed depending on whether the treatment is performed with the first treatment element 16 or the second treatment element 17, and different massage sensations can be provided to each treatment area according to the user's needs.

[0108] The first contact surface 18 has a smooth surface, and the first treatment element 16 massages the area to be treated by pressing the first contact surface 18 against it. The second contact surface 19 has one or more protrusions 28 on its surface, and the second treatment element 17 massages the area to be treated by pressing the protrusions 28 against it.

[0109] According to this, the first treatment element 16 has a first contact surface 18 that is formed as a smooth, egg-shaped (teardrop-shaped) curved surface, and no matter which part of the first contact surface 18 contacts the treatment area, it will not cause strong stimulation to the treatment area. Therefore, the first treatment element 16 makes it possible to massage the treatment area softly (gently). On the other hand, the second treatment element 17 has a second contact surface 19 with a projection 28 that is much smaller in area than the first contact surface 18. Therefore, when the treatment area is pressed with the second treatment element 17, the pressing force is concentrated on the smaller second contact surface 19, making it possible to apply a strong massage sensation to the treatment area.

[0110] The first axis a1 is preferably provided in a direction that inclins toward the front and upward, and the second axis a2 is preferably provided in a direction that inclins toward the rear and downward.

[0111] By positioning the first axis a1 in a direction that inclins forward and upward, the first treatment element 16 can be positioned to protrude upward from the front end of the arm portion 14, and by positioning the second axis a2 in a direction that inclins rearward and downward, the second treatment element 17 can be positioned to protrude downward from the front end of the arm portion 14. By positioning the first treatment element 16 to protrude upward and the second treatment element 17 to protrude downward, it becomes possible to perform a soft massage using the first treatment element 16 on areas such as the back and shoulders, and a strong massage using the second treatment element 17 on areas such as the waist, thereby enabling massage of varying intensity depending on the area being treated.

[0112] The second axis a2 is preferably tilted by an angle θ2 inward in the left-right direction (width direction) of the massage unit 1.

[0113] By tilting the second axis a2 inward in the left-right direction (width direction) by an angle θ2, it becomes possible to position the second axis so that it faces the gripping massage element 29. As shown by the dashed line in Figure 5B, the gripping massage element 29 is positioned inward in the left-right direction (width direction) of the massage unit 1, as viewed from the second massage element 17. By positioning the second axis a2 so that it faces the gripping massage element 29, when the gripping massage element 29 performs a gripping massage motion, it becomes possible to direct the projection 28 toward the gripping massage element 29, thereby providing a strong massage sensation to the massage area.

[0114] The first axis a1 and the second axis a2 should intersect in different directions in the left-right direction.

[0115] Arranging the first axis a1 and the second axis a2 in a crisscross manner so that they face different directions in the left-right direction is particularly preferable when a gripping massage member 30 is provided in addition to the kneading massage member 11. Having the second treatment element 17 (or the first treatment element 16) protrude toward the gripping massage member 30 can also enhance the massage sensation of the gripping massage.

[0116] It is preferable that at least two projections 28 are formed around the second axis a2.

[0117] In other words, when viewed from the direction of extension of the second axis a2, the lines a3 passing through the tips of each projection 28 extend radially from the intersection point P2, with an angle θ3 between them.

[0118] By forming at least two or more protrusions 28 around the second axis a2 in this manner, regardless of the direction in which the second treatment element 17 protrudes, one of the multiple protrusions 28 will come into contact with the treatment area, thereby providing a strong massage sensation to the treatment area with the tips of the protrusions 28 of the second treatment element 17.

[0119] The line a3, which indicates the direction of projection of the projection 28 and extends from the intersection point (intersection P1) where a line extending vertically through the center of the second treatment element 17 intersects with the upper surface of the second treatment element 17 toward the tip of the projection 28, should be at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees with respect to the upper surface of the second treatment element 17.

[0120] By making the angle θ4 that line a3 makes with respect to the upper surface of the second treatment element 17 greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees, the tip of the projection 28 will come into contact with the treatment area even when the second treatment element 17 is tilted, making it possible to apply a strong massage sensation to the treatment area with the tip of the projection 28.

[0121] Below the pair of massage members 11 (left massage member 11L and right massage member 11R) arranged on the left and right sides, there are gripping massage members 30 that perform gripping massage in relation to the second treatment element 17 on the treatment part. The drive mechanism 12 has a gripping motion conversion unit 40 that converts the rotational motion of the rotation shaft 20 into vertical oscillating motion. The gripping massage member 30 has a gripping arm portion 35 whose base end is supported by the gripping motion conversion unit 40, and a gripping treatment element 29 positioned at the tip of the gripping arm portion 35. The second shaft a2 is positioned to face the gripping treatment element 29.

[0122] By positioning the second axis a2 toward the gripping and treating element 29 in this manner, when the gripping massage member 30 is swung upward, the treatment area is sandwiched between the projection 28 of the second treating element 17 and the gripping and treating element 29, making it possible to massage the treatment area with a strong massage sensation during the gripping massage.

[0123] The chair-type massage machine 2 of this disclosure is characterized by comprising a seat 4, a backrest 3, a massage unit 1 of this disclosure located within the backrest 3, and a guide mechanism 5 for guiding the massage unit 1 from the shoulders to the waist of the user U.

[0124] In the chair-type massage machine 2 of this disclosure, the intensity of the massage sensation applied to the treatment area can be changed depending on whether the treatment is performed with the first treatment element 16 or the second treatment element 17, allowing the user to be provided with different massage sensations for each treatment area according to their needs.

[0125] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. In particular, matters not explicitly disclosed in the embodiments disclosed herein, such as massage conditions, massage modes, parameters such as the intensity and speed of various massage movements, and the dimensions, weight, and volume of each component, do not deviate from what is normally practiced by those skilled in the art, and the values ​​adopted are those that can be easily anticipated by those skilled in the art.

[0126] In the embodiments described above, the massage unit 1 was applied to the back massage mechanism of the backrest 3. However, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure can be used in stationary massage machines and massage chair type massage machines. Furthermore, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure can be used not only in the back massage mechanism of the backrest 3, but also in the seat massage mechanism of the seat 4.

[0127] Furthermore, the massage unit 1 of this disclosure can also be considered to have the following configuration. Specifically, the first treatment element 16 has a first contact surface 18 that is a curved surface that orbits around a first axis extending intersecting the longitudinal direction of the arm 14 and is capable of contacting the treatment area, and the second treatment element 17 has a second contact surface 19 that is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis extending intersecting the longitudinal direction of the arm 14 and is capable of contacting the treatment area, and the first contact surface 18 has a smooth surface, and the second contact surface 19 has one or more protrusions 28 on its surface. With this configuration, it is possible to provide the user with different massage sensations using the first contact surface 18 and the second contact surface 19, thereby realizing a variety of massages.

[0128] Furthermore, the first contact surface 18 has a larger surface area than the second contact surface 19. With this configuration, the first contact surface 18 has low surface pressure, which can provide the user with a soft kneading sensation, while the second contact surface 19 has high surface pressure, which can provide the user with a strong kneading sensation.

[0129] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the embodiments described above, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0130] 1 Massage Unit 2. Chair-type massage machine 3. Backrest 4 Seat area 5 Guide mechanism 6 Guide rails 7. Rack section 8. Drive gear 9. Driving motor 10 bases 11 Massage components 11L Left Massager 11R Right Massage Member 12 Drive mechanism 13 Casing 14 Arm section 14L Left Arm Section 14R Right Arm Section 15 Treatment child 15L Left-handed treatment tube 15R Right Treatment 16 1st treatment child 16L 1st treatment child on the left 16R Right No. 1 Treatment 17 Second treatment child 17L Left No. 2 Treatment Unit 17R Right No. 2 Treatment 18 1st contact surface 18L 1st left contact surface 19 Second contact surface 19L 2nd left contact surface 20 Rotation axis 21 1st spindle 21L Left 1st spindle 22L Left first insertion hole 23L Left first retaining part 24 Mounting part 25L 2nd left support shaft 26L Left second insertion hole 27L 2nd left retaining part 28 Protrusion 29L Left-handed gripping treatment device 29R Right-hand gripping treatment device 30 Gripping massage components 30L Left-Handed Massager 30R Right-hand gripping massager 31L Left first rotation restriction section 32 First Regulating Pin 33 Regulating groove 34 Regulating members 35L Left gripping arm 35R Right gripping arm section 36R Right Second Turn Regulation Section 37 Second regulation pin 38 Drive unit 39. Kneading motion conversion unit 39L Left-hand kneading motion conversion unit 39R Right-hand kneading motion conversion unit 40. Grasping motion conversion unit 40L Left-hand gripping motion conversion unit 40R Right-hand gripping motion conversion unit 41 Input Gear 42 Drive motor 42a Drive shaft 43 Transmission gear 44L Left First Boss Section 45L Left 2nd boss section 45R Right Second Boss Section 47 First shaft hole 48L Left No. 1 cam section 49L Left 1st cam surface 49R Right first cam surface 50L Left first annular fitting section 51 Second shaft hole 53L Left 3rd Boss Section 54L Left 2nd cam surface 54R Right 2nd cam surface 55L Left 2nd cam section 56L Left second annular fitting section 57 Third Axial Hole L1 Longitudinal Direction O1 axis center P1 intersection P2 intersection U user a1 First axis a2 2nd axis A3 Line θ1 intersection angle θ2 angle θ3 angle θ4 angle

Claims

1. A pair of left and right massage members are provided on the base, A drive mechanism that moves the pair of left and right massage members closer together or further apart to generate a kneading motion on the treatment area, A massage unit equipped with, The aforementioned drive mechanism is A rotating shaft that is driven to rotate around an axis oriented horizontally, A drive unit that rotates the aforementioned rotating shaft, A kneading motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the aforementioned rotating shaft into a left-right oscillating motion, Includes, The massage members, arranged in pairs on the left and right, include an arm portion whose base end is supported by the kneading motion conversion portion, and a treatment element provided at the tip of the arm portion, the treatment element including a first treatment element provided at the upper part of the tip of the arm portion, and a second treatment element provided at the lower part of the tip of the arm portion, The first treatment element has a first contact surface that is a curved surface that circumfers around a first axis that extends intersectingly in the longitudinal direction of the arm portion with respect to the tip of the arm portion and is capable of contacting the treatment portion. The second treatment element has a second contact surface that is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis that extends intersectingly in the longitudinal direction of the arm portion with respect to the tip of the arm portion and is capable of contacting the treatment portion. The first contact surface has a larger area than the second contact surface. Massage unit.

2. The aforementioned first contact surface has a smooth surface, The first treatment device presses its first contact surface against the treatment area to perform a massage. The second contact surface has one or more protrusions on its surface, The second treatment device performs massage by pressing the projection against the treatment area. The massage unit according to claim 1.

3. The first axis is provided in a direction that is inclined toward the front and upward, The second shaft is provided in a direction that is inclined downward and rearward. The massage unit according to claim 2.

4. The first axis and the second axis intersect in different directions in the left-right direction. The massage unit according to claim 2.

5. The aforementioned protrusions are formed in at least two or more locations around the second axis. The massage unit according to claim 2.

6. A line extending vertically through the center of the second treatment element and the upper surface of the second treatment element intersects with a line indicating the direction of projection of the projection, extending from the intersection point toward the tip of the projection, has an angle with respect to the upper surface of the second treatment element that is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. The massage unit according to claim 2.

7. On the lower side of the pair of massage members arranged on the left and right, a gripping massage member is provided that performs a gripping massage between the treatment unit and the second treatment unit. The drive mechanism includes a gripping motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the rotating shaft into an up-and-down oscillating motion. The gripping massage member includes a gripping arm portion whose base end is supported by the gripping motion conversion portion, and a gripping treatment element positioned at the tip of the gripping arm portion. The second axis is positioned to face the gripping treatment device. The massage unit according to claim 2.

8. The seat and, The backrest and, A massage unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, disposed within the backrest portion, A guide mechanism that guides the massage unit from the user's shoulders to their waist, Equipped with, A chair-type massage machine.

9. A pair of left and right massage members are provided on the base, A drive mechanism that moves the pair of left and right massage members closer together or further apart to generate a kneading motion on the treatment area, A massage unit equipped with, The aforementioned drive mechanism is A rotating shaft that is driven to rotate around an axis oriented horizontally, A drive unit that rotates the aforementioned rotating shaft, A kneading motion conversion unit that converts the rotational motion of the aforementioned rotating shaft into a left-right oscillating motion, Includes, The massage members, arranged in pairs on the left and right, include an arm portion whose base end is supported by the kneading motion conversion portion, and a treatment element provided at the tip of the arm portion, the treatment element including a first treatment element provided at the upper part of the tip of the arm portion, and a second treatment element provided at the lower part of the tip of the arm portion, The first treatment element has a first contact surface that is a curved surface that circumfers around a first axis that extends intersectingly in the longitudinal direction of the arm portion with respect to the tip of the arm portion and is capable of contacting the treatment portion. The second treatment element has a second contact surface that is a curved surface that orbits around a second axis that extends intersectingly in the longitudinal direction of the arm portion with respect to the tip of the arm portion and is capable of contacting the treatment portion. The first contact surface has a smooth surface, and the second contact surface has one or more protrusions on its surface. Massage unit.

10. The first contact surface has a larger area than the second contact surface. The massage unit according to claim 9.

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