Electrical stimulation devices and beauty devices

Abstract

The present invention provides an electrical stimulation device capable of applying appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage status of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin. [Solution] The electrical stimulation device comprises electrodes that apply electrical stimulation when in contact with the user's skin, and an electrode control device that controls the electrodes. The electrode control device 100 has a sensor information acquisition unit 111 that acquires contact information from a sensor unit provided on the electrodes, indicating the proportion of the electrode that is in contact with the user's skin. The electrode control device 100 also has a skin contact area determination unit 112 that determines the skin contact area, indicating the area in contact with the user's skin, based on the contact information. The electrode control device 100 also has a frequency setting unit 113 that adjusts the set value of the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes based on the skin contact area. Furthermore, the electrode control device 100 has an electrode control unit 115 that controls the electrodes based on the set value of the frequency set by the frequency setting unit 113.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a beauty instrument has been proposed 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 technique related to a beauty instrument having a flat main body portion and an application portion provided with an electrode. The beauty instrument disclosed in Patent Document 1 applies a physical stimulus to the skin by moving the application portion while the user holds the main body portion and brings the application portion into contact with the skin, and applies an electrical stimulus to the skin by energizing the electrode while applying the physical stimulus.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the beauty instrument disclosed in Patent Document 1, the user performs the treatment while holding and moving the beauty instrument. Therefore, when the area (ratio) of the electrode of the beauty instrument in contact with the user's skin is small, the electrical stimulus applied to the skin may become too strong.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of such problems of the prior art. The object of the present disclosure is to provide an electrical stimulation device capable of applying an appropriate electrical stimulus according to the usage situation of the beauty instrument in contact with the skin surface of the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An electrical stimulation device according to an aspect of the present disclosure comprises an electrode that applies electrical stimulation by contacting the user's skin, and an electrode control device that controls the electrode, wherein the electrode control device includes a sensor information acquisition unit that acquires contact information from a sensor unit provided on the electrode indicating the proportion of the electrode that is in contact with the user's skin, a skin contact area determination unit that determines the skin contact area indicating the area in contact with the user's skin based on the contact information, a frequency setting unit that adjusts the set value of the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode based on the skin contact area, and an electrode control unit that controls the electrode based on the set value of the frequency set by the frequency setting unit.

[0007] A beauty device relating to another aspect of this disclosure is the above-described electrical stimulator, which includes a main body for the user to grasp, and provides 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 depending on the usage status of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin. [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 5A] This figure illustrates the relationship between skin contact area and frequency of the electrical stimulator according to this embodiment. [Figure 5B] This figure illustrates the relationship between skin contact area and frequency of the electrical stimulator according to this embodiment. [Figure 5C]This figure illustrates the relationship between skin contact area and frequency of the electrical stimulator according to this embodiment. [Figure 5D] This figure illustrates the relationship between skin contact area and frequency of the electrical stimulator according to this embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of the processing of the electrical stimulation device according to this embodiment. [Figure 7] This block diagram shows the functional configuration 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] In the following embodiments, the direction substantially parallel to the long side of the beauty device is defined as the longitudinal direction X or the X direction. The thickness direction of the beauty device 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. The beauty device corresponds to the electrical stimulator 10.

[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 electrodes 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 electrodes 30. This allows for, for example, EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) training of muscles such as the face. In this embodiment, the electrical stimulation device 10 is described as being applied as a beauty device that provides cosmetic effects to the user's skin, but this configuration is not limited to the embodiment. For example, the electrical stimulation device 10 may be applied as a treatment device that stimulates muscles or performs treatment on muscles. For example, the beauty device may be a muscle training device or a facial muscle training device.

[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 and a mode selection switch 12. Details of the power switch 11 and mode selection switch 12 will be described later.

[0014] Furthermore, the main body 10a functions as a gripping part 20 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 such that its outer surface is entirely rounded. This can suppress the formation of edges on the outer surface as much as possible. When the user grips the main body portion 10a, it can prevent the edges from hitting the user's hand and causing unnecessary irritation to the user's hand. The housing may be formed by joining together a plurality of divided bodies made of, for example, synthetic resin.

[0016] The treatment portion 10b is provided at the end of the main body portion 10a when viewed in the thickness direction Z of the main body portion 10a. The treatment portion 10b is supported with respect to the main body portion 10a via a resin support portion. A plurality of electrodes 30 are provided on the treatment portion 10b.

[0017] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the electrode 30 is provided at the end of the treatment portion 10b when viewed in the thickness direction Z. The electrode 30 includes a first electrode 31 and a second electrode 32 provided at a position away from the first electrode 31. The electrode 30 also includes a third electrode 33 provided at a position away from the first electrode 31. Hereinafter, when it is not necessary to distinguish each electrode for explanation, it is simply referred to as "electrode 30".

[0018] Also, the electrical stimulation device 10 according to the present embodiment can apply electrical stimulation to the skin by passing an electric current through the skin between the first electrode 31 and the second electrode 32, and between the first electrode 3I and the third electrode 33.

[0019] (Configuration of the electrical stimulation device 10) Next, referring to FIG. 3, the configuration of the electrical stimulation device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing each configuration of the electrical stimulation device 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 3, the electrical stimulation device 10 includes an electrode control device 100, a power switch 11, and a mode selection switch 12. Also, as described above, the electrical stimulation device 10 includes the first electrode 31, the second electrode 32, and the third electrode 33 as electrodes.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] As shown in Figure 4, the memory unit 120 stores the information stored in the setting information DB 121 (Data Base) as data. The setting information DB 121 stores initial values ​​related to the frequency and voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode 30. The setting information DB 121 may also store the frequency and voltage values ​​set by the frequency setting unit 113 and voltage setting unit 114, which will be described later.

[0026] Furthermore, as described above, the storage unit 120 may store programs for each function executed by the control unit 110. The information and programs stored in the storage unit 120 may be configured as areas physically or logically separated within a single storage device. Alternatively, the storage unit 120 for each data may be provided in 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 third electrodes 33, the power switch 11, and the mode selection switch 12 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 third electrode 33 is sent to the first electrode 31, the second electrode 32, and / or the third electrode 33 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, as its functions, a sensor information acquisition unit 111, a skin contact area determination unit 112, a frequency setting unit 113, a voltage setting unit 114, and an electrode control unit 115.

[0031] The sensor information acquisition unit 111 acquires contact information from a sensor unit provided on the electrode 30, indicating the proportion of contact between the electrode 30 and the user's skin. In this embodiment, the sensor unit may be configured to acquire contact information based on contact pressure information when the electrode 30 is pressed against the user's skin. Alternatively, the sensor unit may be configured to acquire contact information based on current information flowing when the electrode 30 is pressed against the user's skin. Furthermore, the sensor unit may be configured to acquire contact information based on muscle sound information related to muscle activity detected when the electrode 30 is pressed against the user's skin. This enables the electrode control device 100 to acquire contact information indicating the proportion of contact between the electrode 30 and the user's skin while the user is using the electrical stimulator 10.

[0032] The skin contact area determination unit 112 determines the skin contact area, which indicates the area in contact with the user's skin, based on the contact information. For example, if the contact information is obtained based on contact pressure information, the skin contact area determination unit 112 determines the skin contact area according to the ratio of the contact pressure information to the pressure when all parts of the electrode 30 are in contact with the user's skin. Specifically, the skin contact area determination unit 112 determines that the skin contact area is 100% if the pressure when all parts of the electrode 30 are in contact with the user's skin is the same as the value of the contact pressure information. In addition, the skin contact area may be a value greater than 100% if the pressure when all parts of the electrode 30 are in contact with the user's skin is greater than the contact pressure information.

[0033] The skin contact area determination unit 112 determines the skin contact area based on the ratio of the current or muscle sound to the current or muscle sound when all parts of the electrode 30 are in contact with the user's skin, even when the contact information is current information or muscle sound information, similar to the case of contact pressure information.

[0034] The frequency setting unit 113 adjusts the set value of the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode 30 based on the skin contact area. For example, the frequency setting unit 113 sets the frequency such that the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode increases as the skin contact area decreases.

[0035] When the skin area in contact with the electrode 30 is small, the treatment area may become concentrated, potentially increasing the pain inflicted on the user. Furthermore, as the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied from the electrode 30 decreases, the user may feel as if their skin is being kneaded or tapped, and the stimulation becomes stronger. Therefore, the frequency setting unit 113 of the electrode control device 100 according to this embodiment reduces pain by increasing the frequency when the skin contact area is small. Conversely, when the skin contact area is large, the frequency setting unit 113 increases the intensity of the electrical stimulation by decreasing the frequency, thereby intensifying the stimulation.

[0036] Figures 5A to 5D are graphs showing the relationship between skin contact area and electrical stimulation frequency. For example, the frequency setting unit 113 may set the corresponding frequency by giving a predetermined width to the contact area, as shown in Figures 5A and 5B. Alternatively, the frequency setting unit 113 may set the frequency so that it changes linearly according to the amount of contact area, as shown in Figure 5C. Alternatively, the frequency setting unit 113 may set the frequency so that it changes smoothly according to the amount of contact area, as shown in Figure 5D.

[0037] The voltage setting unit 114 adjusts the set value (level) of the electrical stimulation voltage applied to the electrode 30 based on the skin contact area. For example, the voltage setting unit 114 sets the voltage so that the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode decreases as the skin contact area decreases. In other words, when the skin contact area is small and the treatment area is concentrated, the voltage setting unit 114 can reduce the pain inflicted on the user by setting the voltage of the electrical stimulation to a lower level.

[0038] The electrode control unit 115 controls the electrodes based on the frequency setting value set by the frequency setting unit 113. The electrode control unit 115 also controls the electrodes based on the voltage setting value set by the voltage setting unit 114. When the electrical stimulator 10 starts operating, the electrode control unit 115 controls the electrodes 30 according to the initial values ​​of the frequency and voltage of the electrodes 30 that are stored in the setting information DB 121 in advance.

[0039] (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 6. The series of operations of the electrode control device 100 shown in the flowchart in Figure 6 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 6 also ends when an interrupt indicating the end of processing occurs. 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.

[0040] In step S601, the electrode control unit 115 controls the electrode 30 according to the frequency and voltage values ​​of the electrode 30 stored in the setting information DB 121. The process then proceeds to step S602.

[0041] In step S602, the sensor information acquisition unit 111 acquires contact information from the sensor unit provided on the electrode 30, indicating the proportion of contact between the electrode 30 and the user's skin. In this embodiment, the sensor unit may be configured to acquire contact information based on contact pressure information when the electrode 30 is pressed against the user's skin. Alternatively, the sensor unit may be configured to acquire contact information based on current information flowing when the electrode 30 is pressed against the user's skin. Furthermore, the sensor unit may be configured to acquire contact information based on muscle sound information related to muscle activity detected when the electrode 30 is pressed against the user's skin. The process then proceeds to step S603.

[0042] In step S603, the skin contact area determination unit 112 determines the skin contact area, which indicates the area in contact with the user's skin, based on the contact information. For example, if the contact information is obtained based on contact pressure information, the skin contact area determination unit 112 determines the skin contact area according to the ratio of the contact pressure information to the pressure when the entire electrode 30 is in contact with the user's skin. The process then proceeds to step S604.

[0043] In step S604, the frequency setting unit 113 adjusts the set value of the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode 30 based on the skin contact area. For example, the frequency setting unit 113 sets the frequency such that the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode increases as the skin contact area decreases. The process then proceeds to step S605.

[0044] In step S605, the voltage setting unit 114 adjusts the set value of the electrical stimulation voltage applied to the electrode 30 based on the skin contact area. For example, the voltage setting unit 114 sets the voltage such that the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode decreases as the skin contact area decreases. The process then proceeds to step S606.

[0045] In step S606, the control unit 110 determines whether or not electrode control has been completed. In this embodiment, the determination of whether or not electrode control has been completed is made based on the information that the power switch 11 has been pressed. Alternatively, the completion of electrode control may be performed by automatically turning off the power after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the electrical stimulator 10 was used. In step S606, if the control unit 110 determines that electrode control has been completed (step S606: YES), the process ends. On the other hand, in step S606, if the control unit 110 determines that electrode control has not been completed (step S606: NO), the process returns to step S601, and the process from step S601 is repeated.

[0046] (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.

[0047] For example, a gripping pressure sensor (not shown) may be provided at the part of the main body 10a that the user grips (location, gripping part 20, see Figure 2). The sensor information acquisition unit 111 may also acquire gripping pressure information indicating the pressure applied by the user to the gripping part 20, which is acquired by the gripping pressure sensor. The gripping pressure sensor corresponds to a pressure sensor. The frequency setting unit 113 may set the frequency so that the frequency applied to the electrodes increases as the value of the gripping pressure information increases. The voltage setting unit 114 may also set the voltage so that the voltage applied to the electrodes decreases as the value of the gripping pressure information increases. As a result, the electrical stimulator 10 does not require the user to select a mode with a mode selection switch, and the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied to grip the main body 10a.

[0048] Furthermore, the main body 10a of the electrical stimulator 10 may be equipped with a vibration generator that vibrates the part (location, gripping part 20, see Figure 2) that the user grips. Also, as shown in Figure 7, the electrode control device 100 may further be equipped with a vibration generating unit 116 that vibrates the vibration generator more strongly as the skin contact area decreases or as the gripping pressure information value increases. This makes it possible for the electrical stimulator 10 to alleviate the user's pain or provide a more effective cosmetic effect by applying vibration.

[0049] Furthermore, the beauty device corresponding to the electrical stimulation device 10 may also be a beauty device comprising an electrode unit having electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin, and an electrical stimulation control unit for controlling the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes. The electrical stimulation control unit corresponds to the electrode control device 100. The electrode unit may also have a skin contact area detection unit for recognizing the contact area between the electrodes and the skin. The skin contact area detection unit corresponds to the sensor information acquisition unit 111 and the skin contact area determination unit 112. The electrical stimulation control unit may also be provided with a waveform-related information setting unit that uses the skin contact area data, which is the contact area between the electrodes and the skin detected by the skin contact area detection unit, to set waveform information indicating the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes or the waveform characteristics of the electrical stimulation. The waveform-related information setting unit corresponds to the frequency setting unit 113 and the voltage setting unit 114. As a result, the beauty device adjusts the setting of the electrical stimulation frequency based on the area in contact with the user's skin by the electrodes 30. In other words, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage status of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0050] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation control unit may have a current / voltage setting unit that uses skin contact area data to set the level of the voltage or current of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes. This allows the beauty device to adjust the setting of the electrical stimulation voltage or current based on the area in contact with the user's skin by the electrodes 30. In other words, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage conditions of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0051] Furthermore, the beauty device may have a situation analysis and judgment processing unit that uses skin contact area data to analyze and judge the situation. This allows the beauty device to apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage situation.

[0052] Furthermore, the beauty device may have a level adjustment sensor unit that allows the user to adjust the voltage or current level of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes based on the pressure applied when gripping the beauty device. The level adjustment sensor unit corresponds to the sensor information acquisition unit 111, the frequency setting unit 113, and the voltage setting unit 114. As a result, the beauty device does not require the user to select a mode with a mode selection switch, and the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied when gripping the main body 10a.

[0053] Furthermore, the skin contact area detection unit may include one or more of the following: a pressure sensor that detects a certain amount of pressure, a muscle sound sensor that detects muscle activity, a current sensor that measures skin contact based on the flow of electric current, or an imaging sensor that captures images of the user. This allows the beauty device to detect the skin contact area more accurately.

[0054] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation control unit may use skin contact area data and AI technology to select the optimal electrical stimulation pattern. This allows the beauty device to provide the user with a more appropriate electrical stimulation pattern.

[0055] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation control unit may be configured to transmit and receive data with an external device using skin contact area data. This allows the user of the beauty device to check the treatment results based on the skin contact area data.

[0056] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation control unit may be configured to select an electrical stimulation pattern by transmitting and receiving data with an external device. This allows the user of the beauty device to check the treatment results based on the electrical stimulation pattern.

[0057] Furthermore, the electrical stimulation control unit may have a user detection unit that detects each individual user. This allows the beauty device to perform more appropriate treatments according to the user.

[0058] Furthermore, the electrodes used to apply electrical stimulation to the user's skin may be either contact or non-contact. This allows users of beauty devices to perform treatments with greater flexibility.

[0059] 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.

[0060] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0061] (Technology 1) An electrical stimulation device comprising electrodes that are brought into contact with the user's skin to apply electrical stimulation, and an electrode control device that controls the electrodes, The electrode control device is A sensor information acquisition unit acquires contact information from a sensor unit provided on the electrode, which indicates the proportion of contact between the electrode and the user's skin. A skin contact area determination unit determines the skin contact area, which indicates the area in which the electrode is in contact with the user's skin, based on the contact information. A frequency setting unit adjusts the set value of the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode based on the skin contact area, Based on the frequency setting value set by the frequency setting unit, an electrode control unit controls the electrode, An electrical stimulation device having

[0062] With this configuration, the electrical stimulator 10 adjusts the setting of the electrical stimulation frequency based on the area in contact between the electrodes 30 and the user's skin. In other words, the electrical stimulator 10 can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage status of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0063] (Technology 2) The electrical stimulation device according to Technology 1, wherein the frequency setting unit sets the frequency such that the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode increases as the skin contact area decreases.

[0064] With this configuration, the frequency setting unit 113 of the electrical stimulator 10 can alleviate pain by increasing the frequency when the skin contact area is small, and increase the intensity of electrical stimulation by decreasing the frequency when the skin contact area is large. In other words, when the skin contact area is small and the treatment area is concentrated, the electrical stimulator 10 can reduce the pain inflicted on the user by setting the frequency of electrical stimulation to be high.

[0065] (Technical 3) The system further comprises a voltage setting unit that adjusts the set value of the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode based on the skin contact area, The electrical stimulation device according to technology 1 or 2, wherein the electrode control unit controls the electrodes based on the set value of the frequency set by the frequency setting unit and the set value of the voltage set by the voltage setting unit.

[0066] With this configuration, the electrical stimulator 10 adjusts the voltage setting of the electrical stimulation based on the area in contact between the electrodes 30 and the user's skin. In other words, the electrical stimulator 10 can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage status of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0067] (Technical 4) The electrical stimulation device according to Technical 3, wherein the voltage setting unit sets the voltage such that the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode decreases as the skin contact area decreases.

[0068] With this configuration, the voltage setting unit 114 of the electrical stimulator 10 sets the voltage so that the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode 30 decreases as the skin contact area decreases. In other words, when the skin contact area is small and the treatment area is concentrated, the electrical stimulator 10 can reduce the pain inflicted on the user by setting the voltage of the electrical stimulation to a lower level.

[0069] (Technology 5) An electrical stimulator according to any one of Technologies 1 to 4, wherein the sensor unit acquires contact information based on contact pressure information when the electrode is pressed against the user's skin.

[0070] With this configuration, the electrical stimulator 10 acquires contact information based on the contact pressure information when the electrodes 30 are pressed against the user's skin. In other words, the electrical stimulator 10 can acquire contact information indicating the percentage of time the electrodes 30 are in contact with the user's skin while the user is using the electrical stimulator 10.

[0071] (Technology 6) An electrical stimulator according to any one of Technologies 1 to 4, wherein the sensor unit acquires contact information based on the current information that flows when the electrode is pressed against the user's skin.

[0072] With this configuration, the electrical stimulator 10 acquires contact information based on the current information flowing when the electrodes 30 are pressed against the user's skin. In other words, the electrical stimulator 10 can acquire contact information indicating the percentage of time the electrodes 30 are in contact with the user's skin while the user is using the electrical stimulator 10.

[0073] (Technology 7) An electrical stimulation device described in any one of Techniques 1 to 6, Including the main body portion for the user to grasp, A beauty device that provides a cosmetic effect to the user's skin.

[0074] With this configuration, the beauty device adjusts the setting of the electrical stimulation frequency based on the area in contact with the user's skin by the electrode 30. In other words, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation depending on the usage conditions of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0075] (Technical 8) The main body is equipped with a gripping pressure sensor, The sensor information acquisition unit acquires the user's gripping pressure information obtained by the gripping pressure sensor, The beauty device according to Technical Reference 7, wherein the frequency setting unit sets the frequency such that the frequency applied to the electrode increases as the value of the gripping pressure information increases.

[0076] With this configuration, the beauty device does not require the user to select a mode using a mode selection switch; instead, the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied when gripping the main body 10a.

[0077] (Technical 9) The main body is equipped with a vibration generator that vibrates the part that the user grips, The beauty device according to Technical Reference 8, wherein the electrode control unit further comprises a vibration generating unit that increases the vibration of the vibration generator as the skin contact area decreases or as the value of the gripping pressure information increases.

[0078] With this configuration, the beauty device stimulates the user's skin not only with electrical stimulation from the electrodes 30, but also with physical stimulation from the vibration generator. In other words, the beauty device can deliver beauty effects more effectively by applying vibration.

[0079] (Technical 10) A beauty device comprising an electrode unit having electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin, and an electrical stimulation control unit for controlling the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes, wherein the electrode unit has a skin contact area detection unit for recognizing the contact area between the electrodes and the skin, and the electrical stimulation control unit is provided with a waveform-related information setting unit that uses skin contact area data, which is the contact area between the electrodes and the skin detected by the skin contact area detection unit, to set waveform information indicating the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes or the waveform characteristics of the electrical stimulation.

[0080] With this configuration, the beauty device adjusts the setting of the electrical stimulation frequency based on the area in contact with the user's skin by the electrodes 30. In other words, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage conditions of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0081] (Technical 11) The beauty device according to Technical 10, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit has a current / voltage setting unit that uses the skin contact area data to set the level of the voltage or current of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode.

[0082] With this configuration, the beauty device adjusts the voltage or current setting of the electrical stimulation based on the area in contact with the user's skin by the electrode 30. In other words, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage conditions of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0083] (Technical 12) The beauty device according to Technical 10 or 11, characterized in that the beauty device has a situation analysis and judgment processing unit that uses the skin contact area data to analyze and judge the situation.

[0084] This configuration allows the beauty device to apply appropriate electrical stimulation depending on the usage situation.

[0085] (Technical 13) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 12, characterized in that the beauty device has a vibration generating part that can alleviate the user's pain through vibration.

[0086] With this configuration, the beauty device stimulates the user's skin through electrical stimulation from the electrodes 30, as well as physical stimulation from the vibration generator. In other words, the beauty device can alleviate the user's pain by applying vibration.

[0087] (Technical 14) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 13, characterized in that the beauty device has a level adjustment sensor unit that can adjust the level of the voltage or current of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrodes by the pressure applied by the user when gripping the beauty device.

[0088] With this configuration, the beauty device does not require the user to select a mode using a mode selection switch; instead, the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied when gripping the main body 10a.

[0089] (Technical 15) The beauty device according to Technical 14, characterized in that the level adjustment sensor unit has a pressure sensor.

[0090] With this configuration, the beauty device does not require the user to select a mode using a mode selection switch; instead, the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied when gripping the main body 10a.

[0091] (Technical 16) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 15, characterized in that the skin contact area detection unit has one or more of the following: a pressure sensor for detecting a certain amount of pressure, a muscle sound sensor for detecting muscle activity, a current sensor for measuring skin contact by the flow of electric current, or an imaging sensor for imaging the user.

[0092] This configuration allows beauty devices to more accurately detect the skin contact area.

[0093] (Technical 17) The beauty device according to Technical 13, characterized in that the vibration generating part is provided in a place where the user holds it.

[0094] With this configuration, the beauty device does not require the user to select a mode using a mode selection switch; instead, the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied when gripping the main body 10a.

[0095] (Technical 18) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 17, characterized in that the skin contact area detection unit is provided at the location where the user grasps the device.

[0096] With this configuration, the beauty device does not require the user to select a mode using a mode selection switch; instead, the intensity of the electrical stimulation can be adjusted by the pressure applied when gripping the main body 10a.

[0097] (Technical 19) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 11 to 18, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit increases the frequency or decreases the level of current or voltage when the contact area of ​​the skin contact area data is small.

[0098] With this configuration, the beauty device adjusts the settings of the electrical stimulation frequency, current, or voltage based on the area in contact with the user's skin by the electrode 30. In other words, the beauty device can apply appropriate electrical stimulation according to the usage conditions of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0099] (Technical 20) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 19, characterized in that the beauty device is provided with a plurality of electrodes corresponding to the electrode portion.

[0100] This configuration allows the beauty device to apply more appropriate electrical stimulation depending on the usage of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0101] (Technical 21) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 20, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit can control the electrical stimulation applied to a plurality of electrodes in different ways using the skin contact area data of each electrode.

[0102] This configuration allows the beauty device to apply more appropriate electrical stimulation depending on the usage of the beauty device in contact with the user's skin.

[0103] (Technology 22) The beauty device according to any one of Technologies 10 to 21, characterized in that the beauty device is a muscle training device or a facial muscle training device.

[0104] This configuration allows the beauty device to provide more appropriate electrical stimulation for training muscles and facial muscles.

[0105] (Technology 23) The beauty device according to any one of technologies 10 to 12, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit can select an optimal electrical stimulation pattern using AI technology with respect to the skin contact area data.

[0106] This configuration allows the beauty device to provide the user with a more appropriate pattern of electrical stimulation.

[0107] (Technical 24) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 23, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit uses the skin contact area data to send and receive data with an external device.

[0108] This configuration allows users of beauty devices to verify treatment results based on skin contact area data.

[0109] (Technical 25) The beauty device according to Technical 23, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit can select the electrical stimulation pattern by transmitting and receiving data with an external device.

[0110] This configuration allows users of beauty devices to verify treatment results based on electrical stimulation patterns.

[0111] (Technical 26) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 25, characterized in that the electrical stimulation control unit has a user detection unit that detects the user for each individual.

[0112] This configuration allows the beauty device to perform more appropriate treatments depending on the user.

[0113] (Technical 27) The beauty device according to any one of Technical 10 to 16, characterized in that the electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's skin may be in contact or non-contact.

[0114] This configuration allows users of beauty devices to perform treatments with greater flexibility.

[0115] 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]

[0116] 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]

[0117] 10. Electrical stimulation device 10a Main body 10b Treatment area 11 Power switch 12 Mode Selection Switch 20 Gripping part 30 electrodes 31 1st electrode 32 2nd electrode 33 Third electrode 100 Electrode control device 110 Control Unit 111 Sensor Information Acquisition Unit 112 Skin contact area determination section 113 Frequency setting section 114 Voltage setting section 115 Electrode Control Unit 116 Vibration generating part 120 Storage section 121 Configuration Information Database 130 Input / Output Interfaces 140 Communication IF

Claims

1. An electrical stimulation device comprising electrodes that are brought into contact with the user's skin to apply electrical stimulation, and an electrode control device that controls the electrodes, The electrode control device is A sensor information acquisition unit acquires contact information from a sensor unit provided on the electrode, which indicates the proportion of contact between the electrode and the user's skin. A skin contact area determination unit determines the skin contact area, which indicates the area in which the electrode is in contact with the user's skin, based on the contact information. A frequency setting unit adjusts the set value of the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode based on the skin contact area, Based on the frequency setting value set by the frequency setting unit, an electrode control unit controls the electrode, An electrical stimulation device having

2. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the frequency setting unit sets the frequency such that the frequency of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode increases as the skin contact area decreases.

3. The system further includes a voltage setting unit that adjusts the set value of the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode based on the skin contact area. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrode control unit controls the electrodes based on the set value of the frequency set in the frequency setting unit and the set value of the voltage set in the voltage setting unit.

4. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 3, wherein the voltage setting unit sets the voltage such that the voltage of the electrical stimulation applied to the electrode decreases as the skin contact area decreases.

5. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit acquires contact information based on contact pressure information when the electrode is pressed against the user's skin.

6. The electrical stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit acquires contact information based on current information that flows when the electrode is pressed against the user's skin.

7. An electrical stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Including the main body portion for the user to grasp, A beauty device that provides a cosmetic effect to the user's skin.

8. The main body is equipped with a gripping pressure sensor, The sensor information acquisition unit acquires the user's gripping pressure information obtained by the gripping pressure sensor, The beauty device according to claim 7, wherein the frequency setting unit sets the frequency such that the frequency applied to the electrode increases as the value of the gripping pressure information increases.

9. The main body is equipped with a vibration generator that vibrates the part that the user grips, The beauty device according to claim 8, wherein the electrode control unit further comprises a vibration generating unit that increases the vibration of the vibration generator as the skin contact area decreases or as the value of the gripping pressure information increases.

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