Electrotherapy device

Abstract

We provide an electrotherapy device that is small, lightweight, consumes little power, minimizes electric shock, and offers a safe and superior therapeutic experience. [Solution] The device comprises a first boost circuit 3 having a step-up transformer 11, and a second boost circuit 4 having a piezoelectric element power supply 15 and provided in parallel with the first boost circuit 3. The first boost circuit 3 generates a first output waveform 33 that is boosted by the step-up transformer 11 and applied to the human body, and the second boost circuit 4 generates a second output waveform 34 that is boosted to a higher voltage than the first output waveform 33 by the piezoelectric element power supply 15 and applied to the human body. As a result, the electrotherapy device is small, lightweight, consumes little power, and can safely provide excellent therapeutic effects with very little electric shock.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrotherapeutic apparatus that applies a voltage to the human body for treatment.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an electrotherapeutic apparatus that applies an alternating high voltage to the human body for treatment is known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a potential therapeutic apparatus that includes a power supply circuit connected to an AC power supply, an inverter connected to the output side of the power supply circuit to generate an alternating voltage of an arbitrary waveform, and a transformer that boosts the alternating voltage generated by the inverter to an output voltage, and transmits the output voltage boosted by the transformer to a conductor and applies it to the human body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above-described conventional electrotherapeutic apparatus has points that need to be improved so that it can be small, consume little power, and exhibit a body sensation function excellent in safety. Specifically, in a conventional electrotherapeutic apparatus, an output voltage applied to the human body is known to be a high voltage of, for example, 9000V. Such a high-voltage electrotherapeutic apparatus requires a large and heavy transformer to make the output voltage a high voltage.

[0005] For example, the weight of such a transformer for high voltage is 1 to 3 kg, and an electrotherapeutic apparatus including such a large transformer and an attached protection function or the like may have a total weight of, for example, about 10 kg, and its size also becomes large.

[0006] Furthermore, electrotherapy devices that output high voltage have the problem of potentially causing a large electric shock if another person comes into contact with the patient during treatment. In contrast, with electrotherapy devices that use a low voltage output voltage, for example, 1000V or less, the transformer can be made smaller and lighter, and the electrotherapy device itself can also be made smaller and lighter.

[0007] Furthermore, using a low-voltage electrotherapy device with a reduced output voltage can reduce the power consumption of the device. Furthermore, low-voltage electrotherapy devices have the advantage of producing less electric shock, allowing for safer treatment.

[0008] However, the physical effects of electrotherapy devices are broadly known to consist of two main effects: the therapeutic effect of the high electric field caused by high voltage, which is known to manifest as vibrations in body hair, and the effect of the small therapeutic current that flows through the body simultaneously. Therefore, low-voltage electrotherapy devices with low output voltage have the problem of reducing the patient's sensation of treatment, i.e., the therapeutic feeling, compared to high-voltage electrotherapy devices. For example, if the output voltage is set to 1000V or less, the patient receiving treatment will hardly feel anything.

[0009] This invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide an electrotherapy device that is small, lightweight, consumes little power, delivers minimal electric shock, and provides a safe and excellent therapeutic experience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The electrotherapy device of the present invention comprises a first boost circuit having a boost transformer, and a second boost circuit having a piezoelectric element power supply and provided in parallel with the first boost circuit, wherein the first boost circuit generates a first output waveform that is boosted by the boost transformer and applied to the human body, and the second boost circuit generates a second output waveform that is boosted to a higher voltage than the first output waveform by the piezoelectric element power supply and applied to the human body. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The electrotherapy device of the present invention comprises a first boost circuit having a step-up transformer, and a second boost circuit having a piezoelectric element power supply and provided in parallel with the first boost circuit. The first boost circuit generates a first output waveform that is boosted by the step-up transformer and applied to the human body, and the second boost circuit generates a second output waveform that is boosted to a higher voltage than the first output waveform by the piezoelectric element power supply and applied to the human body. With this configuration, an electrotherapy device is obtained that is small, lightweight, consumes little power, and exhibits excellent therapeutic effects with very little electric shock and safety.

[0012] Specifically, since the first output waveform is lower voltage than the second output waveform, a small and lightweight step-up transformer can be used, making the main body of the electrotherapy device smaller and lighter.

[0013] Furthermore, by boosting the voltage using a piezoelectric power supply, a second output waveform with a higher voltage than the first output waveform can be generated, resulting in a superior sensation for the patient receiving treatment. Additionally, the first output waveform is low-voltage, resulting in very little electric shock, and the second output waveform, while high-voltage, also has a very low current value, resulting in very little electric shock. Therefore, even if an outsider touches the patient during treatment, they will hardly feel any electric shock.

[0014] In other words, the therapeutic current and the high electric field are output in such a way that they are exclusively handled by the first and second output waveforms. The therapeutic current is supplied mainly by the first output waveform, which is low voltage, and the high electric field is output by the second output waveform, which has a very small therapeutic current. Therefore, the electrotherapy device of the present invention can supply a high electric field while keeping electric shock to a minimum.

[0015] Furthermore, in the electrotherapy device of the present invention, the voltage of the first output waveform may be 1000V or less in effective value, and the voltage of the second output waveform may be 5000V or more in peak value. This allows for the use of a small and lightweight step-up transformer of 1000V or less, making the main body of the electrotherapy device small and lightweight. In addition, the second output waveform, which is boosted to a high voltage of 5000V or more by a piezoelectric element power supply, provides a superior sensation suitable for treatment with minimal electric shock.

[0016] Furthermore, in the electrotherapy device of the present invention, the second output waveform may be a pulse wave with an output pulse width of 0.5 to 1 second. This allows the patient receiving treatment to experience superior sensations. Thus, suitable electrotherapy can be performed.

[0017] Furthermore, the electrotherapy device of the present invention may be provided with an output switch in at least one of the first boost circuit and the second boost circuit to switch the output ON / OFF. With such a configuration, inappropriate interference between the first output waveform and the second output waveform can be suppressed, and suitable electrotherapy with superior sensory experience can be performed with a suitable output waveform.

[0018] Furthermore, the electrotherapy device of the present invention may be provided with a diode to limit the polarity of the output in at least one of the first boost circuit and the second boost circuit. With such a configuration, safe and suitable electrotherapy can be performed with an output waveform suitable for the treatment target.

[0019] Furthermore, the electrotherapy device of the present invention may also include a first electrode connected to the first boost circuit and applying the first output waveform to the human body, and a second electrode connected to the second boost circuit and applying the second output waveform to the human body. This allows for the use of two independent electrodes to provide suitable electrotherapy tailored to the treatment target. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1] This is a circuit diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] The figure shows the schematics of (A) the first output waveform, (B) the second output waveform, and (C) the combined output waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] The circuit diagram shows the schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] The circuit diagram shows the schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] The figure shows (A) an example of a conductor and (B) another example of a conductor according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] The circuit diagram shows the schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, an electrotherapy device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings. FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram showing the schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, the electrotherapy device 1 is a device that applies an output potential to the human body to perform electrotherapy.

[0022] The electrotherapy device 1 includes a first boosting circuit 3 that generates a low-potential output waveform 33 as a first output waveform from the input potential from the power supply device 2, and a second boosting circuit 4 that generates a high-potential output waveform 34 as a second output waveform from the input potential from the power supply device 2.

[0023] The power supply device 2 is connected to a commercial power supply 37 and is a device that supplies power for electrotherapy to the first boosting circuit 3 and the second boosting circuit 4. Specifically, the power supply device 2 converts the AC voltage from the commercial power supply 37 into a stable DC voltage that can be used by the first boosting circuit 3 and the second boosting circuit 4.

[0024] Note that the power supply device 2 may include a filter circuit (not shown) for countermeasures against interfering electromagnetic waves, an overload protection circuit (not shown) that stops the operation of the power supply circuit in case of abnormalities such as overload, overvoltage, or low voltage, etc.

[0025] The first boost circuit 3 is a circuit that generates a low-potential output waveform 33 as the first output waveform applied to the human body. The first boost circuit 3 is connected to the output side of the power supply 2, and the first boost circuit 3 is equipped with an inverter 10 and a step-up transformer 11.

[0026] The inverter 10 is connected to the output side of the power supply unit 2 and is a circuit that converts the DC voltage supplied from the power supply unit 2 into AC voltage of a predetermined voltage and outputs it. The inverter 10 may also be able to change at least the voltage of the AC sent to the step-up transformer 11, for example, from 0 to 24V. The inverter 10 may also be provided with an overcurrent protection circuit or protective fuse (not shown) to stop the output in the event of an abnormality.

[0027] The step-up transformer 11 is connected to the output side of the inverter 10 and is a circuit that steps up the AC input potential supplied from the inverter 10, i.e., the primary side potential, to generate a high-potential output waveform 33, which is the first output waveform, on the secondary side.

[0028] A current limiting resistor 12 may be provided on one terminal of the secondary side of the step-up transformer 11 to limit the short-circuit current. Additionally, an output switch 13 is provided on one terminal of the secondary side of the step-up transformer 11.

[0029] The output switch 13 is a switching means that switches whether or not to apply the output waveform 33, which is the first output waveform generated by the first boost circuit 3, to the human body. As the output switch 13, for example, a reed switch (reed relay), a semiconductor switch, or other relay switching device can be used.

[0030] The output side of the output switch 13 is connected to the electrode 5, which is attached to the patient's body and to which a therapeutic potential is applied. In other words, one terminal of the secondary side of the step-up transformer 11 is connected to the electrode 5 via the current limiting resistor 12 and the output switch 13.

[0031] The electrode 5 is a circuit component that applies the output potential boosted by the first boost circuit 3 and the second boost circuit 4 to the human body. Multiple electrodes 5 may be provided, and each electrode 5 is placed under or over the human body and attached near the treatment area of ​​the human body.

[0032] Furthermore, the other terminals on the secondary side of the step-up transformer 11 are grounded to the primary side of the step-up transformer 11 via the transit resistor 14. A primary current limiting resistor (not shown) may be provided on the primary side of the step-up transformer 11 to limit the short-circuit current. Additionally, a parallel resistor (not shown) may be provided on the secondary side of the step-up transformer 11 as a parallel impedance circuit connected in parallel to the step-up transformer 11.

[0033] The second boost circuit 4 is a circuit that generates a high-potential output waveform 34 as a second output waveform of the potential applied to the human body. The second boost circuit 4 is provided in parallel with the first boost circuit 3 and has a piezoelectric element power supply 15.

[0034] Specifically, the piezoelectric element power supply 15 includes a converter 16 connected to the output side of the power supply device 2, a switch 18 provided on the output side of the converter 16, and a piezoelectric high-voltage element 17 connected to the output side of the converter 16 via the switch 18.

[0035] Converter 16 is, for example, a DC / DC converter, a circuit that converts the DC power supplied from the power supply unit 2 into a stable DC voltage for use by the piezoelectric high-voltage element 17. The piezoelectric high-voltage element 17 is connected to the output side of converter 16 via a switch 18.

[0036] The piezoelectric high-voltage element 17 is a circuit device that generates a high voltage from the DC voltage supplied from the converter 16 using the piezoelectric effect. The piezoelectric element power supply 15, which has the piezoelectric high-voltage element 17, converts the DC voltage from the converter 16 into a high-potential output waveform 34, which is used as a second output waveform for human treatment. In this embodiment, a piezoelectric element power supply 15 that generates a DC high voltage is exemplified, but the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is not limited to this, and an AC type may also be used.

[0037] Switch 18 is a device that turns the high-potential output of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 ON / OFF, such as a reed switch, semiconductor switch, or relay. By opening and closing switch 18, the piezoelectric element power supply 15 can generate a pulse-wave-like output waveform 34. The opening and closing control of switch 18 is performed by a control device 23, which will be described later.

[0038] A limiting resistor 19 may be provided on one terminal of the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 to limit the short-circuit current. Additionally, a diode 21 and an output switch 22 are provided on one terminal of the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15.

[0039] The output switch 22 is a switching means that switches whether or not to apply the output waveform 34, which is the second output waveform generated by the second boost circuit 4, to the human body. As the output switch 22, for example, a reed switch, a semiconductor switch, or other switching device such as a relay may be used. A reed switch is desirable from the viewpoint of durability of the electrotherapy device 1, as it has an switching life of 100 million cycles or more. Although not shown in the figures, the output switch 13 and the output switch 22 may be configured as a single switching means using a C-contact changeover switch.

[0040] The output side of the output switch 22 then merges with the output side of the output switch 13 of the first boost circuit 3 and is connected to the electrode 5, which is attached to the human body and to which a therapeutic potential is applied. In other words, one terminal of the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is connected to the electrode 5 via the limiting resistor 19, the diode 21, and the output switch 22.

[0041] Furthermore, the other terminal on the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is connected via a discharge resistor 20 between the limiting resistor 19 on one terminal of the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 and the diode 21. The resistance value of the discharge resistor 20 is, for example, about 1000 MΩ. Also, the other terminal on the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is grounded to the primary side of the step-up transformer 11 of the first step-up circuit 3 via a transit resistor 14.

[0042] Furthermore, the electrotherapy device 1 is equipped with a control device 23, a display unit 24 connected to the control device 23, an operation unit 25, and various sensors (not shown). The control device 23 is connected to the inverter 10 and output switch 13 of the first boost circuit 3, and the switch 18 and output switch 22 of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 of the second boost circuit 4.

[0043] The control device 23 is a device that controls the inverter 10, output switch 13, switch 18, and output switch 22, etc., by performing predetermined calculations based on the input from the operation unit 25 and various setting values. Specifically, the control device 23 controls the output potential of the inverter 10 and piezoelectric element power supply 15, controls the waveform of the output potential, controls pulses, controls a timer, monitors overload, monitors voltage, and controls the display on the display unit 24. The inverter 10 and piezoelectric element power supply 15 receive commands from the control device 23 and output waveforms of predetermined voltage and frequency.

[0044] In particular, in the electrotherapy device 1, the control device 23 controls the output switch 13 of the first boost circuit 3 and the output switch 22 of the second boost circuit 4 to alternately turn ON / OFF. That is, the output switches 13 and 22 are alternately switched open or closed in response to commands from the control device 23.

[0045] As a result, the electrotherapy device 1 can suitably combine the output waveform 33 generated by the first boost circuit 3 and the output waveform 34 generated by the second boost circuit 4 to generate an output waveform 35 (see Figure 2) suitable for treatment and apply it to the patient's body.

[0046] The operation unit 25 is a device in which the user inputs operation commands and is connected to the control device 23, etc. The display unit 24 displays various setting conditions such as output potential, output current, frequency, timer, and output status. Sensors such as a temperature sensor (not shown) for measuring the user's body temperature, an electrode temperature sensor (not shown) for measuring the temperature of the electrode 5, and a room temperature sensor (not shown) for measuring the room temperature may be provided.

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the output waveforms 33, 34, and 35 of the electrotherapy device 1. Figure 2(A) shows the first output waveform, output waveform 33; Figure 2(B) shows the second output waveform, output waveform 34; and Figure 2(C) shows the combined output waveform 35, which is the result of output waveforms 33 and 34.

[0048] Referring to Figures 1 and 2(A), the output waveform 33 is the first output waveform generated by the first boost circuit 3 and applied to the human body, and shows the waveform of the voltage V1, which is the output voltage of the first boost circuit 3.

[0049] The output waveform 33 generated by the first boost circuit 3 is a low-potential waveform, for example, an AC waveform. Specifically, the effective value of the voltage V1 of the output waveform 33, which is voltage V1rms, is, for example, 1000V or less. In other words, the peak value of the voltage V1, which is voltage V1peak, is, for example, 1400V or less. Note that as long as the voltage V1rms of the output waveform 33 is 1000V or less, it may also be, for example, 500V or less.

[0050] Referring to Figures 1 and 2(B), the output waveform 34 is the second output waveform generated by the second boost circuit 4 and applied to the human body, and shows the waveform of the voltage V2, which is the output voltage of the second boost circuit 4.

[0051] The output waveform 34 generated by the second boost circuit 4 is a DC pulse wave, for example, that has been boosted to a higher voltage than the output waveform 33 generated by the first boost circuit 3. Specifically, the output waveform 34 is a pulse wave with an output pulse width of 0.002 to 60 seconds, preferably 0.5 to 1 second, and the voltage V2peak, which is the peak value of the voltage V2 of the output waveform 34, is for example 5000V or more.

[0052] Referring to Figures 1 and 2(C), the output waveform 35 is the waveform of the potential applied to the human body via the electrode 5, and is a composite waveform of the output waveform 33 generated by the first boost circuit 3 and the output waveform 34 generated by the second boost circuit 4.

[0053] Specifically, when the output switch 13 is turned ON by control by the control device 23, the output waveform 33, which is the first output waveform generated by the first boost circuit 3, is applied to the human body via the electrode 5. At this time, the output switch 22 of the second boost circuit 4 is controlled to be OFF. The duration for which the low-voltage output waveform 33 is applied to the human body can be, for example, 100ms to several seconds.

[0054] Next, when the output switch 22 is turned ON by control of the control device 23, the output waveform 34, which is the second output waveform generated by the second boost circuit 4, is applied to the human body via the electrode 5. At this time, the output switch 13 of the first boost circuit 3 is controlled to the OFF state.

[0055] In this way, the alternating opening and closing operations of output switch 13 and output switch 22 generate an output waveform 35, which is a composite waveform of a low-potential output waveform 33 and a boosted-to-high-potential output waveform 34, and is applied to the human body.

[0056] Therefore, the electrotherapy device 1 is small, lightweight, consumes little power, delivers very little electric shock, is safe, and provides excellent therapeutic effects.

[0057] Specifically, since the output waveform 33, which is the first output waveform from the first boost circuit 3, is lower in voltage than the output waveform 34, which is the second output waveform, the electrotherapy device 1 can employ a small and lightweight boost transformer 11, for example, with an output voltage V1rms of 1000V or less. Therefore, the main body of the electrotherapy device 1 can be made small and lightweight. The electrotherapy device 1 is small, lightweight, easy to carry, and occupies a small area when placed on a surface.

[0058] Furthermore, by boosting the voltage using the piezoelectric element power supply 15 of the second boost circuit 4, a second output waveform 34 can be generated, which is at a higher voltage than the first output waveform 33, for example, with a peak voltage V2peak of 5000V or more. Therefore, patients receiving treatment can obtain a superior sensation that is suitable for treatment.

[0059] Furthermore, the electrotherapy device 1 consumes little power and can perform highly efficient electrotherapy. Therefore, although not shown in the illustration, the electrotherapy device 1 can also utilize a battery or rechargeable battery as its power supply 2.

[0060] Furthermore, the first output waveform, output waveform 33, is low voltage and produces very little electric shock. The second output waveform, output waveform 34, which is higher voltage than output waveform 33, also has a very small current value and produces very little electric shock.

[0061] In detail, in the second boost circuit 4 having a piezoelectric element power supply 15, the internal resistance is set to, for example, 500 MΩ, and the voltage V2 peak of the output waveform 34 is set to, for example, 5000 V, resulting in an output current of, for example, about 10 μA. That is, the output current of the electrotherapy device 1 is about 1 / 100th of that of a normal high-potential output using a high-voltage transformer in conventional technology, resulting in a very small electric shock. Therefore, even if an outsider touches the patient during treatment, they will hardly feel any electric shock.

[0062] Furthermore, in the electrotherapy device 1, the output waveform 34 as the second output waveform may be, for example, a pulse wave with an output pulse width of 0.002 to 60 seconds, preferably an output pulse width of 0.5 to 1 second. Even with such a pulse width, the patient receiving treatment can obtain an excellent sensation. Therefore, the electrotherapy device 1 can perform suitable electrotherapy.

[0063] More specifically, if the ground-to-ground insulation is approximately 500 MΩ or higher, a piezoelectric element power supply 15 can be used for sensory perception. If an output waveform 34 is output with a pulse frequency and pulse width such that the high-voltage output ground-to-ground capacitance is approximately 200 pF and the impedance is 500 MΩ, the capacitance will not have an effect. For example, if the output pulse width is 0.002 to 60 seconds, preferably 0.5 to 1 second, the patient receiving treatment will experience a sufficient sensory perception.

[0064] Furthermore, because the output waveform 34 is a pulsed wave, the electric shock is very small. That is, if the high voltage from the output waveform 34 is output with a pulse width about the same as the time constant of the circuit resistance, even if one pulse is output, the pulse will end before reaching the maximum voltage, so the discharge capacity per pulse is also suppressed. Therefore, unlike high-potential output using high-voltage transformers in conventional technology, discharge does not occur repeatedly, and the electric shock is reduced.

[0065] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the electrotherapy device 1 is equipped with output switches 13 and 22 in at least one of the first boost circuit 3 and the second boost circuit 4 to switch the output ON / OFF. This suppresses inappropriate interference between the first output waveform, output waveform 33, and the second output waveform, output waveform 34, allowing for optimal electrotherapy with superior sensory experience through a suitable output waveform 35.

[0066] Next, with reference to Figures 3 to 6, examples of modified embodiments of the electrotherapy device 1 will be described in detail. In Figures 3 to 6, components that have the same or similar functions and effects as those of the embodiments already described are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0067] Figure 3 is a circuit diagram showing the schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device 101 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 3, the electrotherapy device 101 is an example of an embodiment in which the output switch 22 (see Figure 1) is not provided in the second boost circuit 4.

[0068] Thus, even with a configuration in which the first boost circuit 3 is equipped with an output switch 13 to control the output, and the second boost circuit 4 is not equipped with an output switch 22 to control the output, it is possible to perform suitable electrotherapy that provides a superior user experience. As a result, a compact, lightweight electrotherapy device 101 with minimal electric shock is obtained.

[0069] Specifically, the second boost circuit 4 is equipped with a diode 21 that directs the current flow toward the output side, i.e., the electrode 5 side, in the forward direction. Therefore, even when the output switch 13 of the first boost circuit 3 is in the ON state, the positive terminal of the output waveform 33 is blocked by the diode 21, and current does not flow from the first boost circuit 3 to the second boost circuit 4.

[0070] This configuration, in which a diode 21 that limits polarity is provided in the second boost circuit 4, enables safe and appropriate electrotherapy with a suitable output waveform 35 (see Figure 2) according to the treatment target.

[0071] Furthermore, the negative terminal of the output waveform 33 of the first boost circuit 3 passes through the diode 21. However, the effect on the piezoelectric high-voltage element 17 is minimal.

[0072] More specifically, in the electrotherapy device 101, one terminal of the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is connected to the electrode 5 via a diode 26, a limiting resistor 19, a resistor 28, and a diode 21. The other terminal of the secondary side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is connected between the limiting resistor 19 and the resistor 28 via a discharge resistor 20. A capacitor 27 is provided in parallel with the discharge resistor 20 to connect the one terminal and the other terminal.

[0073] The resistance value of the limiting resistor 19 is, for example, about 16 MΩ, the resistance value of the discharge resistor 20 is, for example, about 1000 MΩ, and the resistance value of the resistor 28 is, for example, about 160 MΩ. The capacitance of the capacitor 27 is, for example, about 200 pF.

[0074] With this configuration, even if the negative terminal of the output waveform 33 passes through the diode 21, the negative voltage V3 applied to the piezoelectric high-voltage element 17 is reduced to less than 1 / 10 of the voltage V1 of the output waveform 33 due to the voltage division between the resistor 28 and the capacitor 27. Therefore, the influence of the negative terminal of the output waveform 33 passing through the diode 21 is minimal.

[0075] The output waveform 34 from the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is output when the output switch 13 of the first boost circuit 3 is OFF, i.e., open. Specifically, when the output switch 13 is OFF, the control device 23 controls the switch 18 of the piezoelectric element power supply 15 so that the high voltage of the output waveform 34, i.e., voltage V2peak (see Figure 2), is output from the piezoelectric element power supply 15. This prevents the voltage V3 (see Figure 2) of the output waveform 35 from decreasing due to the current of the output waveform 34 from the second boost circuit 4 flowing into the first boost circuit 3, which has the boost transformer 11.

[0076] Figure 4 is a circuit diagram showing a schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device 201 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 4, the electrotherapy device 201 is an example of an embodiment having a plurality of independently connected electrodes 5.

[0077] Specifically, the electrotherapy device 201 includes, as electrodes 5 attached to the human body to apply a therapeutic potential, a low-voltage electrode 29 as a first electrode connected to a first boost circuit 3, and a high-voltage electrode 30 as a second electrode connected to a second boost circuit 4.

[0078] The low-voltage electrode 29 is a first electrode that applies the output waveform 33, which is the first output waveform generated by the first boost circuit 3, to the human body, and the high-voltage electrode 30 is a second electrode that applies the output waveform 34, which is the second output waveform generated by the second boost circuit 4, to the human body. The low-voltage electrode 29 and the high-voltage electrode 30 are not directly wired to each other and are independent of each other.

[0079] Figure 5(A) shows an example of an electrode 5 of the electrotherapy device 201, and Figure 5(B) shows another example of an electrode 5. Referring to Figures 5(A) and 5(B), multiple, for example, two, independent electrodes 5 may be attached near the same treatment area, without overlapping each other.

[0080] Specifically, the low-voltage electrode 29, which is connected to the first boost circuit 3 and to which a low-voltage output waveform 33 is applied, and the high-voltage electrode 30, which is connected to the second boost circuit 4 and to which a high-voltage output waveform 34 is applied, are attached to the vicinity of the same treatment site on the human body so as not to overlap with each other.

[0081] The low-voltage conductor 29 and the high-voltage conductor 30 may have a convex portion 38 on one side and a recess 39 corresponding to the convex portion 38 on the other side when viewed from above. This configuration allows for suitable electrotherapy.

[0082] Furthermore, various shapes can be used for the low-voltage electrode 29 and the high-voltage electrode 30, in addition to the shapes exemplified in Figures 5(A) and 5(B). Also, the low-voltage electrode 29 and the high-voltage electrode 30 are not limited to a pair, but may be provided in multiples.

[0083] Furthermore, referring to Figures 4, 5(A), and 5(B), the electrotherapy device 201 is configured such that independent electrodes 5 are connected to the first boost circuit 3 and the second boost circuit 4, respectively. Therefore, it is also possible to omit the output switch 13 (see Figure 1) and the output switch 22 (see Figure 1).

[0084] In other words, in the electrotherapy device 201, the low-voltage electrode 29 connected to the first boost circuit 3 and the high-voltage electrode 30 connected to the second boost circuit 4 are independent of each other, and the output side of the first boost circuit 3 and the output side of the second boost circuit 4 are not directly wired together.

[0085] Therefore, except for some output interference due to mutual induction via the human body, even without output switches 13 and 22, no current flows from the output side of the first boost circuit 3 to the output side of the second boost circuit 4, or vice versa, and no problems such as output interference occur.

[0086] As described above, the electrotherapy device 201 comprises a low-voltage electrode 29 as a first electrode connected to the first boost circuit 3 and applying the output waveform 33 to the human body, and a high-voltage electrode 30 as a second electrode connected to the second boost circuit 4 and applying the output waveform 34 to the human body. This allows for appropriate electrotherapy tailored to the treatment target using two independent electrodes 5.

[0087] Figure 6 is a circuit diagram showing the schematic configuration of an electrotherapy device 301 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 6, the electrotherapy device 301 is an example of an embodiment in which output switches 13 (see Figure 1) and 22 (see Figure 1) are not provided.

[0088] Specifically, the first boost circuit 3 is provided with a reverse current prevention diode 31 on one terminal side of the secondary side of the boost transformer 11, and the second boost circuit 4 is provided with a reverse current prevention diode 21 and a diode 26 on one terminal side of the output side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15. A capacitor (not shown) may be connected in parallel to the reverse current prevention diode 31 to allow a portion of the negative terminal side of the output of the boost transformer 11 to pass through.

[0089] Thus, by providing diodes 31, 21, and 26 in the first boost circuit 3 and the second boost circuit 4 to limit the polarity of the output waveforms 33 and 34, safe and suitable electrotherapy can be performed with an appropriate output waveform according to the target of treatment.

[0090] Furthermore, the second boost circuit 4 may be provided with a discharge resistor 32 connecting the output side of the diode 21 to the other terminal side of the output side of the piezoelectric element power supply 15. The resistance value of the discharge resistor 32 is, for example, about 1000 MΩ. By providing such a discharge resistor 32, it is possible to suppress the residual DC voltage on the electrode 5.

[0091] As described above, the electrotherapy devices 1, 101, 201, and 301 according to this embodiment are small and lightweight, consume little power, and provide safe electrotherapy with excellent therapeutic effects while minimizing electric shock.

[0092] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. For example, the polarity of the output waveform 34 generated by the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is not limited to the positive terminal, but can be either positive or negative.

[0093] Alternatively, multiple piezoelectric element power supplies 15, each equipped with a changeover switch (not shown), may be provided, and by switching the changeover switches, multiple output waveforms 34 from the multiple piezoelectric element power supplies 15 may be applied to the human body.

[0094] Furthermore, the output waveform 34 generated by the piezoelectric element power supply 15 is not limited to a pulse wave with a pulse width of 0.5 to 1 second, but may have other pulse widths, or be a sine wave, a pulsating wave, or any other type of waveform.

[0095] Furthermore, while an example of a circuit configuration having an output switch 13, diode 21, output switch 22, diode 26, and diode 31 is given, if a piezoelectric element power supply 15 that does not cause interference problems can be used, a configuration without these switches such as output switches 13 and 22, and diodes such as diodes 21, 26, and 31 is also acceptable.

[0096] Furthermore, multiple electrodes 5 may be connected to the main body of the electrotherapy device 1. Additionally, the electrotherapy device 1 may be provided with multiple selectable switches (not shown) for selectively switching between the multiple electrodes 5. Furthermore, the present invention can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 1, 101, 201, 301: Electrotherapy devices 2:Power supply 3: First boost circuit 4: Second boost circuit 5: Emitting element 10: Inverter 11: Step-up transformer 12: Current limiting resistor 13: Output switch 14: Watari resistance 15: Piezoelectric element power supply 16: Converter 17: Piezoelectric high-voltage element 18: Switch 19: Limiting resistor 20: Discharge resistance 21: Diode 22: Output switch 23: Control device 24: Display section 25:Operation section 26: Diode 27: Capacitor 28: Resistance 29: Low-voltage conductor 30: High-voltage electrode 31: Diode 32: Discharge resistance 33: Output waveform Output waveform of 34: 35: Output waveform 37:Commercial power supply 38: Convex part 39: Recess

Claims

1. A first boost circuit having a step-up transformer, The system comprises a second boost circuit having a piezoelectric element power supply and provided in parallel with the first boost circuit, In the first boost circuit, a first output waveform is generated that is boosted by the boost transformer and applied to the human body. The electrotherapy device is characterized in that the second boost circuit generates a second output waveform which is boosted to a higher voltage than the first output waveform by the piezoelectric element power supply and applied to the human body.

2. The voltage of the first output waveform is less than or equal to 1000V in RMS value. The electrotherapy device according to claim 1, characterized in that the voltage of the second output waveform has a peak value of 5000V or more.

3. The electrotherapy device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second output waveform is a pulse wave with an output pulse width of 0.5 to 1 second.

4. The electrotherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one of the first boost circuit and the second boost circuit is provided with an output switch for switching the output ON / OFF.

5. The electrotherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one of the first boost circuit and the second boost circuit is provided with a diode to limit the polarity of the output.

6. A first electrode connected to the first boost circuit and applying the first output waveform to the human body, The electrotherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a second electrode connected to the second boost circuit for applying the second output waveform to the human body.

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