Electrical stimulation devices and beauty devices

Abstract

To provide an electrical stimulation device that can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple configuration. [Solution] The electrical stimulation device 10 comprises an electrode group consisting of a pair of electrodes, and includes a plurality of electrode groups that are brought into contact with the user's skin to apply electrical stimulation. The electrical stimulation device 10 also includes an electrode control unit that applies a voltage corresponding to a first electrical stimulation to a first electrode group 30a among the plurality of electrode groups, and applies a voltage corresponding to a second electrical stimulation, which has a carrier frequency difference from the first electrical stimulation, to a second electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electrical stimulation device and a beauty instrument.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there has been proposed a beauty instrument that applies a beauty effect to the skin by energizing while an electrode is in contact with the skin surface of a user. Patent Document 1 discloses a technology related to an electrotherapeutic device including a plurality of conductors that output medium-frequency pulses. The electrotherapeutic device disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a control device that selects and switches a pair of conductors that output medium-frequency pulses from among the conductors.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The control device of the electrotherapeutic device disclosed in Patent Document 1 needs to select and switch a pair of conductors that output medium-frequency pulses from among a plurality of conductors, and perform output control. Therefore, in the electrotherapeutic device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the number of conductors (electrodes) that output medium-frequency pulses and control circuit components increases, and control such as selection and switching of the conductors (electrodes) becomes complicated.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of such problems of the prior art. An object of the present disclosure is to provide an electrical stimulation device that can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the skin surface of a user with a simple configuration.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical stimulation device according to an aspect of the present disclosure comprises an electrode group composed of a pair of electrodes, a plurality of electrode groups that are brought into contact with the user's skin to apply electrical stimulation, and an electrode control unit that applies a voltage corresponding to a first electrical stimulation to a first electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups, and applies a voltage corresponding to a second electrical stimulation that has a carrier frequency difference with the first electrical stimulation to a second electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups.

[0007] Beauty devices relating to other aspects of this disclosure include the above-mentioned electrical stimulator and provide a beauty effect to the user's skin. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide an electrical stimulation device that can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin surface with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of an electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a side view showing an example of an electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure illustrates the electrical stimulation intensity of the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6A] This figure illustrates the electrical stimulation intensity of the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6B] This figure illustrates the electrical stimulation intensity of the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 6C] This figure illustrates the carrier frequency difference caused by electrical stimulation in the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates the pattern of carrier frequency difference due to electrical stimulation in the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram for explaining the time interval of the frequency difference due to the electrical stimulation of the electrical stimulation device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a diagram for explaining the mode selection of the electrical stimulation device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a diagram for explaining the mode cancellation of the electrical stimulation device according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11A] This is a diagram showing a comparative example of the mode cancellation of the electrical stimulation device according to the present embodiment. <​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 20B] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 21A] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 21B] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 22A] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 22B] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 23] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 24A] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 24B] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 25A] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 25B] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Figure 25C] This figure illustrates the electrodes of an electrical stimulation device according to another embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0011] Furthermore, in the following embodiment, the direction substantially parallel to the long side of the electrical stimulator 10 is defined as the longitudinal direction X or the X direction. The thickness direction of the electrical stimulator 10 is defined as the thickness direction Z or the Z direction. The direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction X and the thickness direction Z is defined as the short direction Y or the Y direction.

[0012] (Electrical stimulator 10) As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment comprises a flat main body 10a, a treatment section 10b, and an electrode section 30. In this embodiment, the electrical stimulation device 10 provides physical stimulation to the skin when the user holds the main body 10a and brings the treatment section 10b into contact with the skin, then moves the treatment section 10b on the skin. The electrical stimulation device 10 then provides electrical stimulation to the skin by energizing the electrode section 30. This allows for, for example, EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) training of muscles such as those in the face. In this embodiment, the electrical stimulation device 10 is described as being used as a beauty device or beauty equipment that provides a beauty effect to the user's skin, but this configuration is not limited to the embodiment. For example, the electrical stimulation device 10 may be used as a treatment device that stimulates muscles or performs treatment on muscles.

[0013] The main body 10a includes a housing. The housing is flat and forms the outer casing of the main body 10a. The main body 10a has a hollow section inside. Electrical components such as a control circuit board and a storage battery are housed in the hollow section. The hollow section is covered from the outside by the housing. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the housing of the main body 10a is equipped with a power switch 11, a mode selection switch 12, and a cancel switch 13. Details of the power switch 11, mode selection switch 12, and cancel switch 13 will be described later.

[0014] Furthermore, the main body 10a functions as a gripping part that the user holds in their hand when using the electrical stimulation device 10. While the user holds the main body 10a, they bring the treatment part 10b into contact with their own skin or the skin of another person receiving treatment and move it, thereby applying at least one of physical or electrical stimulation to the skin of the user or the person receiving treatment.

[0015] The housing is formed so that its outer surface is rounded overall. This minimizes the formation of edges on the outer surface. Furthermore, when the user grips the main body 10a, it prevents the edges from coming into contact with the user's hand and causing unnecessary irritation. The housing may be formed, for example, by joining together multiple segments made of synthetic resin.

[0016] The treatment section 10b is provided at the end of the main body 10a when viewed from the thickness direction Z of the main body 10a. The treatment section 10b is supported by a resin support part on the main body 10a. The treatment section 10b is also provided with multiple electrode sections 30.

[0017] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the electrode section 30 is provided at the end of the treatment section 10b when viewed from the thickness direction Z. The electrode section 30 includes a first electrode 31 and a second electrode 32 provided at a position away from the first electrode 31. In other words, the treatment section 10b is equipped with at least two electrodes.

[0018] Furthermore, the electrode section 30 includes a third electrode 33 located away from the second electrode 32, and a fourth electrode 34 located away from the third electrode 33. In this embodiment, the electrode group consisting of the first electrode 31 and the third electrode 33 is referred to as the first electrode group 30a. Also in this embodiment, the electrode group consisting of the second electrode 32 and the fourth electrode 34 is referred to as the second electrode group 30b. That is, in this embodiment, the electrode group consists of a pair of electrodes (electrode pairs) and is brought into contact with the user's skin to provide electrical stimulation. Hereafter, unless it is necessary to distinguish between each electrode, it will simply be referred to as "electrode section 30".

[0019] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment can apply electrical stimulation to the skin by passing an electric current through the skin between the first electrode 31 and the third electrode 33, and between the second electrode 32 and the fourth electrode 34.

[0020] (Configuration of the electrical stimulation device 10) Next, the configuration of the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a schematic block diagram showing each component of the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment.

[0021] As shown in Figure 3, the electrical stimulation device 10 comprises an electrode control device 100, a power switch 11, a mode selection switch 12, and a cancel switch 13. Furthermore, as described above, the electrical stimulation device 10 includes a first electrode 31, a second electrode 32, a third electrode 33, and a fourth electrode 34.

[0022] The electrode control device 100 may be configured as a system comprising a general-purpose microcomputer including a control unit 110 (CPU), a storage unit 120 (memory), and an input / output IF 130 (interface). In this case, the microcomputer may have a computer program installed that allows it to function as the electrode control device 100. By executing the computer program, the microcomputer functions as one of the multiple information processing circuits provided by the electrode control device 100.

[0023] In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the multiple information processing functions of the electrode control device 100 are realized by software. The electrode control device 100 functions as one of the multiple information processing circuits by executing a computer program.

[0024] Alternatively, the electrode control device 100 may be configured by providing dedicated hardware for executing each information processing function, and these information processing functions may be configured using a system LSI (Large Scale Integration) or the like. Furthermore, multiple information processing functions may be configured using separate hardware components. Details of the control unit 110 and the storage unit 120 will be described later.

[0025] The control unit 110 operates based on a program (not shown) stored in the memory unit 120 and executes each function of the electrode control device 100. Note that the program is not limited to being stored in the memory unit 120; for example, it may be stored in a ROM (not shown) within the electrical stimulator 10.

[0026] As shown in Figure 4, the storage unit 120 stores the information stored in the configuration information DB 121 (Data Base) as data. The storage unit 120 may also store programs for each function executed by the control unit 110, as described above. The information and programs stored in the storage unit 120 may be configured as physically or logically separated areas within a single storage device. Alternatively, the storage unit 120 for each data may be provided on multiple physically different storage devices.

[0027] The input / output IF130 is an interface for sending and receiving information between the electrode control device 100 and the first electrodes 31 to the fourth electrodes 34, the power switch 11, the mode selection switch 12, and the cancel switch 13 provided on the electrical stimulator 10.

[0028] For example, information regarding the power switch 11 or mode selection switch 12 pressed by the user is sent to the control unit 110 and / or storage unit 120 via the input / output IF 130. In addition, control information from the control unit 110 to the first electrode 31 to the fourth electrode 34 is sent to the first electrode 31, second electrode 32, third electrode 33, and / or fourth electrode 34 via the input / output IF 130.

[0029] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment may be equipped with a communication IF 140. For example, the user may set a predetermined mode via the communication IF 140. The user may also obtain information regarding the treatment status recorded in the electrical stimulation device 10 via the communication IF 140.

[0030] (Functions of electrode control device 100) Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the electrode control device 100. As shown in Figure 4, the control unit 110 of the electrode control device 100 includes a mode information acquisition unit 111, a frequency setting unit 112, a stimulation intensity setting unit 113, and an electrode control unit 114 as its functions.

[0031] The mode information acquisition unit 111 acquires information about the treatment mode selected by the user when they press the mode selection switch 12. The mode information acquisition unit 111 also acquires information when the user presses the cancel switch 13.

[0032] The frequency setting unit 112 sets the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode unit 30. The stimulation intensity setting unit 113 sets the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode unit 30. The intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode unit 30 is set, for example, by adjusting the voltage value or current value applied to the electrode unit 30. Specifically, the frequency setting unit 112 and the stimulation intensity setting unit 113 set the frequency and the intensity of the electrical stimulation stored in the setting information DB 121 according to the mode acquired by the mode information acquisition unit 111. The intensity of the electrical stimulation may also be indicated by a current value or a voltage value. For example, when the intensity of the electrical stimulation is indicated by a voltage value, it corresponds to an electrical stimulation of several volts to tens of volts. When the intensity of the electrical stimulation is indicated by a current value, it corresponds to an electrical stimulation of several mA to tens of mA.

[0033] In the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment, as shown in Figures 5, 6A, and 6B, electrical stimulation of different frequencies is applied to the first electrode group 30a and the second electrode group 30b. In this embodiment, the electrical stimulation applied to the first electrode group 30a is referred to as the first electrical stimulation, and the electrical stimulation applied to the second electrode group 30b is referred to as the second electrical stimulation.

[0034] The example shown in Figure 5 illustrates the case where the intensity of the electrical stimulation is constant. In the example shown in Figure 5, the waveform shown in the upper part of the waveform diagram and the magnified view, respectively, represents the electrical stimulation to the first electrode group 30a, and the waveform shown in the lower part represents the electrical stimulation to the second electrode group 30b. As shown in the magnified view of Figure 5, the waveform of the electrical stimulation may be, for example, a sine wave. Furthermore, the waveform of the electrical stimulation is not limited to a sine wave as long as it has periodicity; for example, it may be a square wave, step wave, triangle wave, or sawtooth wave.

[0035] The examples shown in Figures 6A and 6B illustrate waveforms where the intensity of electrical stimulation is not constant but changes over time. In Figure 6A, electrode group A corresponds to the first electrode group 30a, and in Figure 6B, electrode group B corresponds to the second electrode group 30b.

[0036] Figure 6C shows the carrier frequency difference between the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation applied by the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 6C, the frequency setting unit 112 may change the carrier frequency difference between the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation over time. In this embodiment, the carrier frequencies of the first and second electrical stimulations are 500 to 10000 Hz, and more preferably, carrier frequencies of 2000 to 6000 Hz are applied.

[0037] The electrode control unit 114 controls the electrode unit 30 based on the values ​​set by the frequency setting unit 112 and the stimulation intensity setting unit 113. Specifically, the electrode control unit 114 applies a voltage corresponding to the first electrical stimulation to the first electrode group 30a in the plurality of electrode groups, and applies a voltage corresponding to the second electrical stimulation, which has a carrier frequency difference from the first electrical stimulation, to the second electrode group 30b in the plurality of electrode groups. In other words, the electrode control unit 114 applies voltages corresponding to the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation, which have a carrier frequency difference, to the first electrode group 30a and the second electrode group 30b, respectively.

[0038] Furthermore, the electrode control unit 114 may change the carrier frequency difference between the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation over time. Alternatively, the electrode control unit 114 may switch the carrier frequency difference between three electrical stimulation patterns: 1-3 Hz, 4-20 Hz, and 21-1000 Hz, and apply voltage to the first electrode group 30a and the second electrode group 30b.

[0039] In typical EMS stimulation, two frequencies, stimulation frequency and carrier frequency, are used as parameters for electrical stimulation. To change the sensation of the treatment, it is common to change the stimulation frequency, while the carrier frequency is used to reduce pain. In the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment, the difference in treatment sensation is achieved by using the difference in carrier frequencies between two electrical stimulations, rather than the carrier frequency which was conventionally thought to affect pain.

[0040] For example, at 1-3Hz, electrical stimulation is applied to the user's skin at slow intervals, giving the user a sensation as if the area in contact with the electrode 30 and the area not in contact with the electrode 30 are being massaged alternately. At 4-20Hz, electrical stimulation is applied to the user's skin at faster intervals than 1-3Hz, giving the user a sensation as if being tapped by the practitioner. At 20-1000Hz, the muscles are continuously contracted, giving the user a sensation as if being pinched by the practitioner.

[0041] The electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment can provide the user with a complex treatment sensation that simulates a beauty clinic or esthetic salon by applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin with such a carrier frequency difference pattern.

[0042] Figure 7 shows an example of switching between multiple electrical stimulation patterns. For example, after performing electrical stimulation with a predetermined frequency difference using electrical stimulation pattern A, electrical stimulation is performed using electrical stimulation pattern B, which has a smaller frequency difference than electrical stimulation pattern A. Furthermore, after electrical stimulation pattern B, electrical stimulation is performed using electrical stimulation pattern C, in which the frequency difference changes over time.

[0043] Thus, by generating multiple frequency differences, the electrical stimulator 10 enables stimulation using undulations, allowing for more complex treatments. Furthermore, by using multiple electrical stimuli with carrier frequency differences that are easily perceived, the user can clearly feel the changes. In addition, as shown in the electrical stimulation pattern C in Figure 7, it is possible to create complex treatment sensations by changing the frequency difference over time.

[0044] Furthermore, the electrode control unit 114 may switch the electrical stimulation patterns after a predetermined time has elapsed and apply voltage to the first electrode group 30a and the second electrode group 30b. Figure 8 shows an example in which each pattern is switched after predetermined times T1, T2, and T3 have elapsed. For example, in a typical electrical stimulation device, the user becomes accustomed to the stimulation after a certain period of time, but in the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment, the electrical stimulation changes after a certain period of time has elapsed, making it possible to prevent the user from becoming accustomed to it. The predetermined time may be, for example, a few seconds to several tens of seconds.

[0045] Furthermore, the electrode control unit 114 may change the carrier frequency difference based on the information that the mode selection switch 12 has been pressed. Figure 9 shows an example where the carrier frequency differs depending on whether the mode selection switch 12 is pressed. This allows the user to change the electrical stimulation to their preferred level of treatment sensation at the appropriate timing.

[0046] Furthermore, the electrode control unit 114 may stop applying voltage to the first electrode group 30a and the second electrode group 30b based on the information that the cancel switch 13 has been pressed. Figure 10 shows an example in which a predetermined carrier frequency difference pattern is canceled by pressing the cancel switch 13. This makes it possible for the user to cancel treatments they do not like at the appropriate time.

[0047] Furthermore, the electrode control unit 114 may record the carrier frequency difference when the cancel switch 13 is pressed in the storage unit 120 and control the system so as not to use the carrier frequency difference when the cancel switch 13 is pressed. Figure 11A shows an example of a pre-set first electrical stimulation (stimulation pattern A) and second electrical stimulation (stimulation pattern B). Figure 11B shows an example where the cancel switch 13 is pressed in the middle of the second electrical stimulation (stimulation pattern B). In the example shown in Figure 11B, the second electrical stimulation (stimulation pattern B) when the cancel switch 13 is pressed is not performed as a subsequent pattern. As a result, the electrical stimulation device 10 can store patterns that are not preferred by the user and prevent them from being performed, thereby eliminating the need to press the cancel switch 13 unnecessarily.

[0048] Furthermore, the electrode control unit 114 may change the carrier frequency difference in both cases: when multiple electrode groups are in contact with the user's skin and when multiple electrode groups are not in contact with the user's skin. Figure 12 shows an example in which the mode selection switch 12 is pressed and the mode is switched in both cases: when multiple electrode groups are in contact with the user's skin and when multiple electrode groups are not in contact with the user's skin. This makes it possible for the electrical stimulator 10 to reliably change the carrier frequency difference regardless of the skin contact state. In other words, since the electrical stimulator 10 does not need to remove the electrode section 30 from the skin when switching modes, it is possible to make the user feel the change in treatment sensation more clearly.

[0049] (Outline of the processing flow of the electrode control device 100) Next, the process related to state determination in the electrode control device 100 (electrode control method) will be explained based on the flowchart in Figure 13. The series of operations of the electrode control device 100 shown in the flowchart in Figure 13 begin when the electrode control device 100 is started and end when the power is turned off. In addition to power off, the flowchart in Figure 13 also ends when an interrupt occurs to indicate the end of processing. Furthermore, in the following explanation of the flowchart, the same content as described in the above explanation of the electrode control device 100 will be omitted or simplified.

[0050] In step S1301, the mode information acquisition unit 111 acquires information about the treatment mode selected by the user when they press the mode selection switch 12. The mode information acquisition unit 111 also acquires information that the user has pressed the cancel switch 13. After that, the process proceeds to step S1302.

[0051] In step S1302, the frequency setting unit 112 sets the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode unit 30. Specifically, the frequency setting unit 112 sets the frequency stored in the setting information DB 121 according to the mode acquired by the mode information acquisition unit 111. The process then proceeds to step S1303.

[0052] In step S1303, the stimulation intensity setting unit 113 sets the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode unit 30. The intensity of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode unit 30 is set, for example, by adjusting the voltage value or current value applied to the electrode unit 30. Specifically, the stimulation intensity setting unit 113 sets the intensity of the electrical stimulation stored in the setting information DB 121 according to the mode acquired by the mode information acquisition unit 111. After that, the process proceeds to step S1304.

[0053] In step S1304, the electrode control unit 114 controls the electrode unit 30 based on the values ​​set by the frequency setting unit 112 and the stimulation intensity setting unit 113. Specifically, the electrode control unit 114 applies a voltage corresponding to the first electrical stimulation to the first electrode group 30a in the plurality of electrode groups, and applies a voltage corresponding to the second electrical stimulation, which has a carrier frequency difference from the first electrical stimulation, to the second electrode group 30b in the plurality of electrode groups. The process then proceeds to step S1305.

[0054] In step S1305, the control unit 110 determines whether electrode control has ended. In this embodiment, the determination of whether electrode control has ended is made based on the information that the power switch 11 has been pressed. Alternatively, the termination of electrode control may be achieved by automatically turning off the power after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the electrical stimulator 10 was used. In step S1305, if the control unit 110 determines that electrode control has ended (step S1305: YES), the process ends. On the other hand, in step S1305, if the control unit 110 determines that electrode control has not ended (step S1305: NO), the process returns to step S1301, and the process from step S1301 is repeated.

[0055] (Other embodiments) Although these embodiments have been described above, the embodiments are not limited to these, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the embodiments. Furthermore, it is possible to combine some or all of the various embodiments to create new embodiments.

[0056] In the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment, the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 may be electrically connected. For example, the potential difference between the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32 may be 0V. That is, the electrical stimulation device 10 may apply a first electrical stimulus to the first electrode group 30a, which consists of the first electrode 31 and the third electrode 33, and apply a second electrical stimulus to the second electrode group 30b, which consists of the second electrode 32, which has the same potential as the first electrode 31, and the fourth electrode 34. As a result, the electrical stimulation device 10 does not need to separately control the first electrode 31 and the third electrode 33, and it becomes possible to realize an electrical stimulation device 10 that applies the above electrical stimulus with a simpler configuration.

[0057] Furthermore, the electrical stimulator 10 may have a first electrode group 30a consisting of a first electrode 31 and a second electrode 32, and a second electrode group 30b consisting of a first electrode 31 and a third electrode 33. In other words, the electrical stimulator 10 may have a 2-pair, 3-electrode configuration.

[0058] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the electrical stimulation device 10, which realizes the first electrode group 30a and the second electrode group 30b with the first electrode 31, the second electrode 32, and the third electrode 33. Figure 15A is a diagram showing the region when voltage V1 is applied to the first electrode group 30a and voltage V2 is applied to the second electrode group 30b. Furthermore, Figure 15B shows examples of electrical stimulation expected in each region shown in Figure 15A. As shown in Figure 15B, it is possible to achieve a period shift of 1 / 4π, and the electrical stimulation device 10 can perform more complex treatments with a simple configuration.

[0059] The configuration consisting of three electrode sections 30, a first electrode 31, a second electrode 32, and a third electrode 33, is not limited to the configuration shown in Figure 14. For example, the electrical stimulation device 10 consisting of three electrode sections 30 may have the configurations shown in Figures 16A, 16B, and 16C.

[0060] Furthermore, the configuration of the electrode section 30 may be as shown in Figures 17 and 18. Moreover, the electrode section 30 is not limited to the planar type described above, and may be in the form of a light bulb, for example, as shown in Figure 19. Alternatively, the electrode section 30 may be in the form of a cylinder, as shown in Figures 20A and 20B.

[0061] Furthermore, the electrode section 30 of the electrical stimulator 10 may be composed of M electrodes (M is a natural number greater than N) that constitute N pairs of electrodes (N is a natural number of 2 or more) including a first electrode group 30a and a second electrode group 30b. This makes it possible for the electrical stimulator 10 to perform more complex treatments with a simpler configuration by using many electrodes.

[0062] Figure 21A shows a configuration consisting of M electrodes (M being a natural number greater than N) that make up N pairs of electrodes (N being a natural number greater than or equal to 2), and illustrates an example of the arrangement in the case of 2 pairs of 4 electrodes. For example, in Figure 21A, it is composed of a first electrode group 30a consisting of a first electrode 31 and a third electrode 33, and a second electrode group 30b consisting of a second electrode 32 and a fourth electrode 34.

[0063] Furthermore, Figure 21B shows a configuration consisting of M electrodes (M being a natural number greater than N) that constitute N pairs of electrodes (N being a natural number greater than or equal to 2), with examples of arrangements for 3 pairs (6 electrodes) (Figure 21B: left) and N pairs (N × 2) electrodes (Figure 21B: right). In the configuration shown in Figure 21B, the first electrode group and the second electrode group according to this embodiment only need to be configured for any two electrode groups among the multiple electrode groups that have a carrier frequency difference.

[0064] Figure 22A shows an example of a configuration consisting of M electrodes (M being a natural number greater than N) that make up N pairs of electrodes (N being a natural number greater than or equal to 2), specifically in the case of 2 pairs of 6 electrodes. For example, in Figure 22A, the system is composed of a first electrode group 30a consisting of a first electrode 31 and a third electrode 33, and a second electrode group 30b consisting of a second electrode 32 and a fourth electrode 34.

[0065] Furthermore, Figure 22B shows a configuration consisting of M electrodes (M being a natural number greater than N) that make up N pairs of electrodes (N being a natural number greater than or equal to 2), with examples of arrangements for 2 pairs of 7 electrodes (Figure 22B: left) and N pairs of 3 electrodes (Figure 22B: right). In the configuration shown in Figure 22B, the first electrode group and the second electrode group according to this embodiment only need to be configured for any two electrode groups among the multiple electrode groups that have a carrier frequency difference.

[0066] Furthermore, the electrode section 30 of the electrical stimulator 10 may consist of (N+1) electrodes that make up N pairs of electrodes (N is a natural number of 2 or more), including a first electrode group 30a and a second electrode group 30b. This allows the electrical stimulator 10 to perform more complex treatments with a simpler configuration by using many electrodes.

[0067] Figure 23A shows an example of a configuration consisting of (N+1) electrodes that make up N pairs of electrodes (where N is a natural number greater than or equal to 2), specifically in the case of 2 pairs of 3 electrodes. For example, in Figure 23A, the system is composed of a first electrode group 30a consisting of a first electrode 31 and a third electrode 33, and a second electrode group 30b consisting of a second electrode 32 and a fourth electrode 34.

[0068] Furthermore, Figures 24A and 24B show an example of an arrangement in the case of 3 pairs of 4 electrodes, where (N+1) electrodes constitute an N pair of electrode groups (N is a natural number of 2 or more). In the configurations shown in Figures 24A and 24B, the first electrode group and the second electrode group according to this embodiment may be configured for any two electrode groups among the multiple electrode groups that have a carrier frequency difference.

[0069] Furthermore, Figures 25A and 24B show an example of an arrangement in the case of 4 pairs of 5 electrodes, where (N+1) electrodes constitute an N-pair electrode group (N is a natural number of 2 or more). Also, Figure 25C shows an arrangement where (N+1) electrodes constitute an N-pair electrode group (N is a natural number of 2 or more). Note that in the configurations shown in Figures 25A to 25C, the first electrode group and the second electrode group according to this embodiment may be configured for any two electrode groups among the multiple electrode groups that have a carrier frequency difference.

[0070] Furthermore, the electrical stimulator 10 may have a constant undulation in its waveform, with varying intensity, due to differences in the carrier frequencies of the first and second electrical stimuli. This allows the electrical stimulator 10 to generate a frequency difference, enabling stimulation using undulation and allowing for more complex treatments. As a result, the electrical stimulator 10 can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple configuration.

[0071] Furthermore, the electrode control device 100 of the electrical stimulator 10 may also include a carrier frequency change mode unit (not shown) that can set different carrier frequency change modes, each providing a different sensory experience, and can set these modes individually or in combination. This allows the electrical stimulator 10 to set carrier frequency modes that provide different sensory experiences, enabling more complex treatments.

[0072] Furthermore, the carrier frequency change mode unit described above may be configured to set the carrier frequency change mode by transmitting and receiving data with an external device. This allows the user of the electrical stimulation device 10 to check the treatment results based on the data recorded by the carrier frequency change mode unit.

[0073] Furthermore, the electrode control device 100 of the electrical stimulator 10 may also include a waveform cancellation unit (not shown) that can cancel the waveform by stopping the electrical stimulation of the carrier frequency difference, which is the difference between the different carrier frequencies being output.

[0074] Furthermore, the electrical stimulator 10 may include a carrier frequency difference recording unit (not shown) that records the carrier frequency difference when the waveform cancellation unit is activated. The electrical stimulator 10 may also control the electrical stimulation to exclude the carrier frequency difference recorded by the carrier frequency difference recording unit. This allows the user of the electrical stimulator 10 to cancel treatments they do not like at the appropriate time.

[0075] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device 10 may also include an electrical stimulation pattern recording unit (not shown) that records an electrical stimulation pattern based on the carrier frequency difference, which is the difference between the different carrier frequencies output by the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation. This allows the electrical stimulation device 10 to record the details of the treatment, thereby improving convenience for the user.

[0076] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device 10 may be configured to select the optimal electrical stimulation pattern using AI technology (artificial intelligence technology) based on the data recorded in the electrical stimulation pattern recording unit. This makes it possible for the electrical stimulation device 10 to provide the user with a more appropriate electrical stimulation pattern.

[0077] The electrical stimulator 10 may be configured to transmit and receive data with an external device using the data recorded in the electrical stimulation pattern recording unit. This allows the user of the electrical stimulator 10 to check the treatment results based on the data recorded in the electrical stimulation pattern recording unit.

[0078] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation device 10 may also be equipped with a user detection unit that detects each individual user. This allows the electrical stimulation device 10 to perform more appropriate treatment according to the user.

[0079] Furthermore, in the electrical stimulation device 10, the electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin may be configured as either contact or non-contact. This allows the user of the electrical stimulation device 10 to perform treatments with greater flexibility.

[0080] Furthermore, the computer program (electrode control program) that causes a computer to execute the processing (electrode control method) in the electrode control device 100 described above, and the computer-readable recording medium on which the program is stored, are included within the scope of this embodiment. Here, the type of computer-readable recording medium is arbitrary. Also, the computer program described above is not limited to that stored on the recording medium described above, but may be transmitted via telecommunication lines, wireless or wired communication lines, networks such as the Internet, etc.

[0081] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0082] (Technology 1) A group of electrodes consisting of a pair of electrodes, comprising multiple groups of electrodes that are brought into contact with the user's skin to provide electrical stimulation, An electrical stimulation device comprising: an electrode control unit that applies a voltage corresponding to a first electrical stimulation to a first electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups, and applies a voltage corresponding to a second electrical stimulation that has a carrier frequency difference with the first electrical stimulation to a second electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups.

[0083] This configuration allows the electrical stimulator 10 to generate frequency differences, enabling stimulation using undulations and allowing for more complex treatments. Therefore, the electrical stimulator 10 can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple configuration.

[0084] (Technology 2) The electrical stimulation device according to Technology 1, wherein the electrode control unit changes the carrier frequency difference between the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation over time.

[0085] This configuration allows the electrical stimulator 10 to generate multiple frequency differences, enabling stimulation using undulations and allowing for more complex treatments. Furthermore, the electrical stimulator 10 can create complex treatment sensations by having the frequency differences change over time.

[0086] (Technology 3) An electrical stimulator according to Technology 1 or 2, wherein the electrode control unit switches the carrier frequency difference of a plurality of electrical stimulation patterns and applies voltage to the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

[0087] This configuration allows the electrical stimulator 10 to use multiple electrical stimuli with carrier frequency differences that are easily perceived, enabling the user to clearly feel the changes.

[0088] (Technology 4) An electrical stimulation device according to any one of Techniques 1 to 3, wherein the electrode control unit switches the electrical stimulation patterns after a predetermined time has elapsed and applies voltage to the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

[0089] In typical electrical stimulation devices, the user becomes accustomed to the stimulation after a certain period of time. However, in the electrical stimulation device 10 according to this embodiment, the electrical stimulation changes after a certain period of time, making it possible to prevent the user from becoming accustomed to it.

[0090] (Technology 5) Equipped with a mode selection switch, The electrode control unit changes the carrier frequency difference based on information that the mode selection switch has been pressed, according to any one of the technologies 1 to 4.

[0091] This configuration allows the user of the electrical stimulator 10 to change the electrical stimulation to their preferred level of sensation at the appropriate time.

[0092] (Technology 6) Equipped with a cancel switch, The electrical stimulation device according to any one of technologies 1 to 5, wherein the electrode control unit stops applying voltage to the first electrode group and the second electrode group based on information that the cancel switch has been pressed.

[0093] This configuration allows the user of the electrical stimulation device 10 to cancel treatments they do not like at the appropriate time.

[0094] (Technical 7) The electrical stimulation device according to Technical 6, wherein the electrode control unit records the carrier frequency difference when the cancel switch is pressed in a storage unit and controls the device so as not to use the carrier frequency difference when the cancel switch is pressed.

[0095] This configuration allows the electrical stimulation device 10 to store patterns that are not preferred by the user and prevent them from being executed, thereby eliminating the need to press the cancellation switch 13 unnecessarily.

[0096] (Technical 8) An electrical stimulator according to any one of Technical 1 to 7, wherein the electrode control unit changes the carrier frequency difference in both the case when the plurality of electrode groups are in contact with the user's skin and the case when the plurality of electrode groups are not in contact with the user's skin.

[0097] This configuration allows the electrical stimulator 10 to reliably change the carrier frequency difference regardless of the skin contact condition. In other words, since the electrical stimulator 10 does not need to remove the electrode section 30 from the skin when switching modes, it is possible to make the user feel the change in treatment sensation more clearly.

[0098] (Technical 9) The first electrode group consists of a first electrode and a third electrode, The electrical stimulation device according to any one of the technologies 1 to 8, wherein the second electrode group consists of a second electrode and a fourth electrode.

[0099] This configuration allows the electrical stimulator 10 to apply electrical stimulation that creates a carrier frequency difference between the first electrode group 30a, which consists of the first electrode 31 and the third electrode 33, and the second electrode group 30b, which consists of the second electrode 32 and the fourth electrode 34. Therefore, the electrical stimulator 10 can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple configuration.

[0100] (Technical 10) The electrical stimulation device according to Technical 9, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are electrically connected.

[0101] This configuration eliminates the need for the electrical stimulator 10 to separately control the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32, making it possible to realize an electrical stimulator 10 that applies the above-mentioned electrical stimulation with a simpler configuration.

[0102] (Technical 11) The first electrode group consists of a first electrode and a second electrode, The electrical stimulation device according to any one of technologies 1 to 8, wherein the second electrode group is composed of the first electrode and the third electrode.

[0103] This configuration allows the electrical stimulation device 10 to perform more complex procedures with a simple setup.

[0104] (Technical 11) An electrical stimulation device according to any one of Technical 1 to 8, comprising (N+1) electrodes that constitute an N pair of electrodes (where N is a natural number of 2 or more) including the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

[0105] This configuration allows the electrical stimulation device 10 to perform more complex procedures with a simpler setup by using multiple electrodes.

[0106] (Technical 12) An electrical stimulation device according to any one of Technical 1 to 8, comprising M electrodes (M being a natural number greater than N) that constitute N pairs of electrodes (N being a natural number greater than or equal to 2) including the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

[0107] This configuration allows the electrical stimulation device 10 to perform more complex procedures with a simpler setup by using multiple electrodes.

[0108] (Technology 14) A beauty device that includes an electrical stimulator described in any one of Techniques 1 to 13, and provides a beauty effect to the user's skin.

[0109] This configuration allows the beauty device to apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple design, thereby providing beauty benefits to the user's skin.

[0110] (Technical 15) A beauty device comprising at least two electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin, and an electrical stimulator for controlling the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes, wherein the electrical stimulator applies a first electrical stimulation to at least a first electrode, and further applies a second electrical stimulation different from the first electrical stimulation to a second electrode, and the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation have different carrier frequencies.

[0111] This configuration allows the beauty device to apply stimulation at different frequencies, enabling more complex treatments. Therefore, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple configuration.

[0112] (Technical 16) The beauty device according to Technical 15, characterized in that the carrier frequency of the first electrical stimulation and the carrier frequency of the second electrical stimulation are different, so that the interference waveform changes in strength with a constant undulation.

[0113] This configuration allows beauty devices to generate frequency differences, enabling stimulation using undulations and allowing for more complex treatments. Therefore, beauty devices can apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple configuration.

[0114] (Technical 17) The beauty device according to Technical 16, characterized in that the waveform has periodicity.

[0115] This configuration prevents users from becoming accustomed to the device, as the electrical stimulation changes after a certain period of time.

[0116] (Technical 18) The beauty device according to Technical 16 or 17, characterized in that the waveform is a square wave, a step wave, a sine wave, a triangular wave, or a sawtooth wave.

[0117] This configuration prevents users from becoming accustomed to the device, as the electrical stimulation changes after a certain period of time.

[0118] (Technical 19) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 15 to 18, characterized in that the carrier frequency is 500 to 10000 Hz.

[0119] This configuration allows beauty devices to apply more complex electrical stimulation by setting the carrier frequency bandwidth to 500-10000Hz.

[0120] (Technical 20) A beauty device according to any one of the technical 15 to 19, characterized in that the electrodes are configured as an electrode pair or as a 2-to-3 electrode configuration.

[0121] This configuration allows the beauty device to apply appropriate electrical stimulation to the user's skin with a simple design.

[0122] (Technical 21) A beauty device according to any one of Technical 15 to 20, characterized in that the carrier frequency difference between the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation is one of 1 to 3 Hz, 21 to 1000 Hz, or 4 to 20 Hz, or a combination thereof.

[0123] This configuration allows the beauty device to use multiple electrical stimuli with pre-existing carrier frequency differences that are easily perceived, enabling the user to clearly feel the changes.

[0124] (Technical 22) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 15 to 21, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device has a carrier frequency change mode unit that can set different carrier frequency change modes, each providing a different sensation, and can set these modes individually or in combination.

[0125] This configuration allows the beauty device to set modes for different sensory transport frequencies, enabling it to perform more complex treatments.

[0126] (Technical 23) The beauty device according to Technical 22, characterized in that the carrier frequency change mode unit can be changed over time.

[0127] This configuration allows the beauty device to generate multiple frequency differences, enabling stimulation using undulations and allowing for more complex treatments. Furthermore, the beauty device can create complex treatment sensations as the frequency differences change over time.

[0128] (Technical 24) The beauty device according to Technical 21, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device has a waveform cancellation unit that can cancel the waveform by stopping the electrical stimulation of the carrier frequency difference, which is the difference between the different carrier frequencies being output.

[0129] This configuration allows users of beauty devices to cancel treatments they do not like at the appropriate time.

[0130] (Technical 25) The beauty device according to Technical 24, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device has a carrier frequency difference recording unit that records the carrier frequency difference when the function of the waveform cancellation unit is activated.

[0131] This configuration allows the beauty device to cancel treatments that the user does not want at the appropriate time.

[0132] (Technical 26) The beauty device according to Technical 25, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device can control the electrical stimulation so as to exclude the carrier frequency difference recorded in the carrier frequency difference recording unit.

[0133] With this configuration, the beauty device may control the electrical stimulation to exclude the carrier frequency difference recorded in the carrier frequency difference recording unit. This allows the user of the beauty device to cancel treatments they do not like at the appropriate time.

[0134] (Technical 27) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 21 to 26, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device has an electrical stimulation pattern recording unit that records an electrical stimulation pattern based on the carrier frequency difference, which is the difference between the different carrier frequencies output by the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation.

[0135] This configuration allows the beauty device to record the details of the treatment, thereby improving convenience for the user.

[0136] (Technical 28) The beauty device according to Technical 27, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device can select the optimal electrical stimulation pattern using AI technology with respect to the data recorded in the electrical stimulation pattern recording unit.

[0137] This configuration allows the beauty device to provide the user with a more appropriate pattern of electrical stimulation.

[0138] (Technical 29) The beauty device according to Technical 27 or 28, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device uses the data recorded in the electrical stimulation pattern recording unit to send and receive data with an external device.

[0139] This configuration allows users of the beauty device to verify treatment results based on data recorded in the carrier frequency change mode unit.

[0140] (Technical 30) The beauty device according to Technical 22, characterized in that the carrier frequency change mode unit can set the carrier frequency change mode by transmitting and receiving data with an external device.

[0141] This configuration allows users of the beauty device to verify treatment results based on data recorded by the electrical stimulation pattern recording unit.

[0142] (Technical 31) The beauty device according to any one of the technical 15 to 30, characterized in that the electrical stimulation device has a user detection unit that detects each user individually.

[0143] This configuration allows the beauty device to perform more appropriate treatments depending on the user.

[0144] (Technical 32) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 15 to 31, characterized in that the electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin may be in contact or non-contact.

[0145] This configuration allows users of the beauty device to perform treatments with greater flexibility when using the electrical stimulation device 10.

[0146] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the scope of the claims or equivalents thereof. [Industrial applicability]

[0147] This disclosure is applicable to beauty devices that impart beauty effects to human skin. Specifically, this disclosure is applicable to facial beauty devices, massage devices, and the like. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0148] 10. Electrical stimulation device 11 Power switch 12 Mode Selection Switch 13. Cancel switch 30 Electrode section 30a 1st electrode group 30b 2nd electrode group 31 1st electrode 32 2nd electrode 33 Third electrode 34 4th electrode 100 Electrode control device 110 Control Unit 111 Mode Information Acquisition Unit 112 Frequency setting section 113 Stimulation intensity setting section 114 Electrode Control Unit 120 Storage section 121 Configuration Information Database 130 Input / Output Interfaces 140 Communication IF

Claims

1. An electrode group consisting of a pair of electrodes, comprising multiple electrode groups that are brought into contact with the user's skin to provide electrical stimulation, An electrical stimulation device comprising: an electrode control unit that applies a voltage corresponding to a first electrical stimulation to a first electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups, and applies a voltage corresponding to a second electrical stimulation that has a carrier frequency difference with the first electrical stimulation to a second electrode group among the plurality of electrode groups.

2. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode control unit changes the carrier frequency difference between the first electrical stimulation and the second electrical stimulation over time.

3. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode control unit switches the carrier frequency difference of a plurality of electrical stimulation patterns and applies voltage to the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

4. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 3, wherein the electrode control unit switches the electrical stimulation patterns after a predetermined time has elapsed and applies voltage to the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

5. Equipped with a mode selection switch, The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode control unit changes the carrier frequency difference based on information that the mode selection switch has been pressed.

6. Equipped with a cancel switch, The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode control unit stops applying voltage to the first electrode group and the second electrode group based on information that the cancel switch has been pressed.

7. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 6, wherein the electrode control unit records the carrier frequency difference when the cancel switch is pressed in the storage unit, and controls the device so as not to use the carrier frequency difference when the cancel switch is pressed.

8. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode control unit changes the carrier frequency difference in both the case when the plurality of electrode groups are in contact with the user's skin and the case when the plurality of electrode groups are not in contact with the user's skin.

9. The first electrode group consists of a first electrode and a third electrode, The electrical stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second electrode group is composed of a second electrode and a fourth electrode.

10. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 9, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are electrically connected.

11. The first electrode group consists of a first electrode and a second electrode, The electrical stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the second electrode group is composed of the first electrode and the third electrode.

12. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, comprising (N+1) electrodes that constitute an N pair of electrodes (where N is a natural number of 2 or more) including the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

13. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, comprising M electrodes (M is a natural number greater than N) that constitute N pairs of electrodes (N is a natural number greater than or equal to 2) including the first electrode group and the second electrode group.

14. A beauty device comprising the electrical stimulator described in claim 1, which provides a beauty effect to the user's skin.

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