Chair-type massage machine

Abstract

The objective is to provide a chair-type massage machine that can safely apply stimulation to the user's neck (especially the sides of the neck, near the carotid arteries) with a simple configuration. [Solution] The chair has a backrest and a pillow attached to the backrest to support the user's head, the pillow being composed of a main body and extensions extending from both the left and right sides of the main body, the extensions extending in a direction intersecting the main body and being provided with a stimulation-applying part for applying thermal and / or cold stimulation to the user's neck.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a chair-type massage machine. BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Conventionally, there has been proposed a massage machine provided with a treatment mechanism configured to include a treatment arm to which a plurality of treatment elements are connected, and a heat source disposed on the treatment arm for transmitting heat to the plurality of treatment elements (for example, refer to Patent Document 1). PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0003] PATENT DOCUMENT 1 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2013-121406 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0004] In the massage machine described in the above Patent Document 1, since the treatment mechanism that applies thermal stimulation via the treatment elements is disposed on the backrest portion, thermal stimulation can be applied when the treatment elements come into contact with the treated portion. However, in the treatment mechanism, it is difficult to adjust the intensity of stimulation, and in particular, there is a problem that applying excessively strong stimulation (for example, pinching of the neck by the left and right treatment elements) to a delicate site such as the user's neck may instead cause injury to the user. The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a chair-type massage machine capable of safely applying stimulation to the user's neck (in particular, the vicinity of the side surface of the neck (carotid artery)) with a simple configuration. MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM

[0005] The present invention comprises a backrest and a pillow attached to the backrest to support the user's head, wherein the pillow is composed of a main body and extensions extending from both the left and right sides of the main body, and the extensions extend in a direction intersecting the main body and are provided with a stimulation-applying part for applying thermal and / or cold stimulation to the user's neck. This configuration allows the stimulation unit to be positioned at a location corresponding to the user's neck.

[0006] Furthermore, it is preferable that the stimulating portion is located on the side of the extended portion and is positioned opposite the carotid artery in the user's neck. This configuration allows for the application of thermal and / or cold stimuli to the carotid artery, thereby effectively warming or cooling the body.

[0007] Furthermore, it is preferable to have a control unit that controls the driving of the stimulation-applying unit, and the control unit controls the intensity of the stimulation provided by the stimulation-applying unit. This configuration allows for adjustment of the intensity of the stimulus.

[0008] Furthermore, the intensity of the stimulus is the temperature emitted by the stimulus-applying unit, and it is preferable that the temperature can be changed within the range of 16 to 40 degrees Celsius. This configuration prevents users from suffering injuries (such as frostbite or burns).

[0009] Furthermore, it is preferable that the control unit has a measuring unit for measuring the driving time of the stimulating unit, and that when the driving time measured by the measuring unit exceeds a predetermined value, the control unit stops driving the stimulating unit. This configuration prevents injuries caused by prolonged stimulation of the same area (for example, low-temperature burns).

[0010] Furthermore, it is preferable that the stimulation unit provides thermal stimulation and cold stimulation, and that the control unit is configured to switch between thermal stimulation and cold stimulation. This configuration allows for the application of both thermal and cold stimuli.

[0011] Furthermore, the thermal stimulation is preferably dry heat, moist heat, or conversion heat. This configuration allows for an increase in the variety of thermal stimulation.

[0012] Furthermore, the cold stimulus is preferably of the type of convective cooling, evaporative cooling, or conduction cooling. This configuration allows for an increase in the variety of cold stimuli. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, stimulation can be safely applied to the user's neck (particularly the side of the neck (near the carotid artery)) with a simple configuration. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a massage machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic plan view of a massage machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram of a massage machine according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing the screen of an operation unit according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a diagram showing a screen in which the intensity of a stimulus is changed by operating parameters displayed on the screen, and (b) is a screen in which the intensity of a stimulus is changed by operating buttons displayed on the screen. [Figure 5]This is a schematic diagram showing a screen of an operation unit according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a diagram showing a state where a stimulation applying unit is driven, and (b) is a diagram showing a screen displayed when the driving time measured by a measurement unit exceeds a predetermined value. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of a pillow part according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a view seen from the front, (b) is a view seen from the bottom surface, and (c) is a view of the A-A cross section in (a) seen from the left side. [Figure 7] This is an enlarged schematic diagram of the periphery of a stimulation applying unit provided on the right extension part according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a view seen from the left side, and (b) is a view of the B-B cross section in (a) seen from the rear side. [Figure 8] This is an enlarged schematic diagram of the periphery of a stimulation applying unit provided on the right extension part according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a view seen from the left side, and (b) is a view of the C-C cross section in (c) seen from the rear side.

[0015] [Overall Configuration of Massage Machine] Hereinafter, the overall configuration of the massage machine 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the massage machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a schematic plan view of the massage machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 is a block diagram of the massage machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In addition, in the present embodiment, the arrangement, the number of attached units, and the like of each massage unit M (3a, 5a, 7a, 10) are merely examples, and are not limited thereto. Appropriate modifications are possible according to the embodiment.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the massage machine 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention is constituted by a seat part 3 on which a user sits, a backrest part 4 provided at the rear part of the seat part 3 for the user to lean against, a footrest part 5 provided at the front part of the seat part 3, and armrest parts 2 attached to the side parts of the seat part 3. A pillow part 6 is attached to the backrest part 4. A side wall 7 is attached to the armrest part 2. The armrest parts 2, the seat part 3, the backrest part 4, the footrest part 5, the pillow part 6, and the side wall 7 function as body support parts that support the user's body.

[0017] At various locations of the massage machine 1, there are provided: a massage section M (massage mechanism 10, buttock massage section 3a, leg massage section 5a, shoulder massage section 7a) that performs massage on a user; a control section 8 that controls the functions of the massage machine 1 (for example, driving of the stimulation applying section 6a); an operation section 20 for performing various operations of the massage machine 1; and an air supply and exhaust device 9 for supplying and discharging air to and from the massage section M constituted by air cells. Each configuration will be described later.

[0018] [Configuration of Seat Section] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the seat section 3 is configured as a horizontally elongated rectangular member in the left-right direction. The seat section 3 is attached to a base (not shown) that serves as the foundation of the massage machine 1. The seat section 3 is provided with a pair of left and right buttock massage sections 3a (massage sections M) for massaging the buttocks of a user seated on the seat section 3. The buttock massage section 3a is configured by an air cell that expands and contracts by air supply and exhaust.

[0019] [Configuration of Backrest Section] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the backrest section 4 is configured as a rectangular member elongated in the height direction. An opening 4a is provided on the front surface of the backrest section 4. A pillow section 6 for supporting the user's head is attached to the upper side of the backrest section 4. The pillow section 6 will be described later. A guide rail 16 is provided inside the backrest section 4 (opening 4a). The massage mechanism 10 (massage section M) is provided via the guide rail 16. The massage mechanism 10 is configured to be able to massage the back of the torso (for example, the shoulder, the waist, etc.) of the user seated on the seat section 3 by moving up and down along the guide rail 16.

[0020] [Configuration of Footrest Section] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the footrest section 5 is provided with a pair of recesses 5b on the left and right sides into which the user's legs can be inserted. On the inner walls of both the left and right recesses 5b, there are leg massage sections 5a (massage section M) for massaging the user's legs. The leg massage section 5a is composed of air cells that expand and contract with the supply and exhaust of air. More specifically, the leg massage sections 5a are provided one on each of the inner walls on both the left and right sides of the right recess 5b, and one on each of the inner walls on both the left and right sides of the left recess 5b. Preferably, each leg massage section 5a is configured to be able to expand and contract independently. In addition, a foot massage section (not shown) for massaging the soles of the user's feet may be provided on the bottom surface of the recess 5b.

[0021] [Structure of the armrest] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the armrests 2 are attached in pairs to both the left and right sides of the seat 3. An arm massage section (not shown) for massaging the user's arms may be provided on the upper surface of the armrests 2. In this way, the arms of the user seated in the massage machine 1 can be massaged by the arm massage section (not shown). Preferably, the arm massage sections (not shown) are configured to be driven independently on the left and right sides.

[0022] The elbow rest 2 is configured in a roughly L-shape to support the user's upper arm, forearm, and fingertips. A side wall 7 extends from the upper end of the elbow rest 2, projecting from the rear to the front. A shoulder massage section 7a (massage section M) is attached to the side wall 7 for massaging the user's shoulder. The shoulder massage section 7a is composed of an air cell that expands and contracts with the intake and exhaust of air.

[0023] [Configuration of the control unit] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a massage machine 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 3, the massage machine 1 is equipped with a control unit 8 consisting of a microcomputer and the like for controlling the drive of the air supply and exhaust device 9, which consists of a pump 9a and a valve 9b, and the drive of the stimulation unit 6a. The control unit 8 is located below the seat 3.

[0024] The control unit 8 is connected to an operation unit 20 for the user to operate the massage machine 1, a storage unit 11 that stores massage programs (including the operation of the stimulation unit 6a), and a measurement unit 12 that measures the operation time T of the stimulation unit 6a. The user can operate the operation unit 20 to drive each massage unit M to perform various massage operations (including massage programs) and change the intensity of the stimulation unit 6a.

[0025] [Configuration of the measurement unit] The measurement unit 12 is for measuring the operating time T of the stimulation unit 6a. More specifically, it is a timer that starts measuring the operating time T when the stimulation unit 6a is activated. A predetermined value (for example, 20 minutes) is set for the operating time T. The measurement unit 12 is connected to the control unit 8 and is configured to stop the operation of the stimulation unit 6a when the operating time T exceeds the predetermined value (for example, 20 minutes). This prevents injury (for example, low-temperature burns) caused by stimulating the same area for a long time.

[0026] For example, low-temperature burns have a correlation with temperature and time. Low temperatures result in burns over a longer period, while high temperatures result in burns over a shorter period. In other words, the higher the temperature, the shorter the time it takes to get a low-temperature burn. Generally, it is said that at 44 degrees Celsius, it takes about 3 to 4 hours, at 46 degrees Celsius about 30 minutes to 1 hour, and at 50 degrees Celsius about 2 to 3 minutes. Some users may lack knowledge about low-temperature burns. Therefore, it is preferable that the specified values ​​are pre-set by the manufacturer of the massage machine 1.

[0027] The predetermined values ​​are stored in the storage unit 11 as table-formatted data. The table format associates a set temperature with the corresponding operating time T. For example, 44 degrees Celsius corresponds to approximately 3 hours, and 46 degrees Celsius corresponds to approximately 30 minutes; the data is determined based on the correlation between temperature and time. By pre-storing the predetermined values ​​in table format in the storage unit 11, when the user selects 44 degrees Celsius, the operating time T corresponding to 44 degrees Celsius (for example, 120 minutes) is automatically set as the predetermined value. Then, when the predetermined value (120 minutes) has elapsed, the operation of the stimulation unit 6a can be automatically stopped.

[0028] Furthermore, the predetermined value may be set by the user. When the user sets the predetermined value, it is preferable that an upper limit is set. Setting an upper limit can enhance safety. For example, the upper limit for a temperature of 46 degrees Celsius may be set to 30 minutes. If the user sets the temperature of the stimulation unit 6a to 46 degrees Celsius and then tries to set the operating time T (predetermined value) to 35 minutes, an error will occur because the upper limit for a temperature of 46 degrees Celsius is set to 30 minutes. In other words, the drive of the stimulation unit 6a can be automatically stopped when a predetermined value set by the user has elapsed. Furthermore, by setting an upper limit, the drive time T can be set within an appropriate range that will not cause injury to the user (in this case, within 30 minutes).

[0029] In this embodiment, the case where the operating time T is set after the temperature has been described, but this is just one example and is not limited to this. The temperature may be set after setting the operating time T for driving the stimulation unit 6a. By setting the operating time T first, the optimal temperature for the set operating time T can be automatically set (the temperature setting can be omitted). For example, if the operating time T of the stimulation unit 6a is set to a predetermined value (e.g., 10 minutes), the temperature is automatically set (e.g., 46 degrees) and the operation of the stimulation unit 6a begins. Then, when the operating time T exceeds the predetermined value (after 10 minutes), the operation of the stimulation unit 6a can be automatically stopped.

[0030] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the screen of the operation unit 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a diagram showing a screen in which the intensity of stimulation is changed by operating parameters displayed on the screen, and (b) is a screen in which the intensity of stimulation is changed by operating buttons displayed on the screen. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the screen of the operation unit 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a diagram showing the state in which the stimulation application unit 6a is in operation, and (b) is a diagram showing a screen displayed when the driving time T measured by the measurement unit 12 exceeds a predetermined value.

[0031] [Configuration of the control panel] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the operation unit 20 consists of a display unit 20a and physical buttons 25 located below the display unit 20a. The display unit 20a is the screen of the operation unit 20 and is a touch panel. Instead of using the physical buttons 25, the user can operate the buttons displayed on the display unit 20a (see Figures 4 and 5) to perform various operations on the massage machine 1 (for example, changing the intensity of stimulation from the stimulation unit 6a). The operation to change the intensity of stimulation from the stimulation unit 6a will be described later.

[0032] The display unit 20a shows a drive button (not shown) for operating the stimulation unit 6a. The user can start or stop the stimulation unit 6a by operating the drive button (not shown). When the stimulation unit 6a is ready to be started by operating the drive button (not shown), the user can change the intensity of the stimulation from the stimulation unit 6a.

[0033] The drive button (not shown) displayed on the display unit 20a may be one, or there may be multiple depending on the type of stimulation. For example, if multiple drive buttons (not shown) are provided, they can be selected according to the type of stimulation, such as a heater button (not shown) for heating and a cold button for cooling. This improves operability.

[0034] The operation for changing the intensity of the stimulation from the stimulation-applying unit 6a will now be explained. As shown in Figure 4, the user can change the intensity of the stimulus by operating the parameters displayed on the screen (display unit 20a). The intensity of the stimulus refers to the temperature of the heat / cold generated by the stimulus application unit 6a. By changing the temperature, the intensity of the stimulus can be changed. By pressing the intensity setting button (not shown) displayed on the display unit 20a, the screen switches to the screen for changing the intensity of the stimulus (Figure 4).

[0035] Figure 4(a) shows a screen where the intensity of stimulation is changed by manipulating parameters displayed on the screen (display unit 20a). As shown in Figure 4(a), the words "Please set the temperature" are displayed above the display unit 20a, and a box 20b for setting the temperature is displayed below the words. The box 20b is configured such that the temperature generated by the stimulation unit 6a decreases as you move to the left (generating cold), and the temperature generated by the stimulation unit 6a increases as you move to the right (generating warm).

[0036] Box 20b is divided into left and right sections by a line within it, with each section color-coded. For example, the left side of the line is colored blue, and the right side is colored red. By color-coding the inside of Box 20b, the current temperature location is made visually easier to understand. Furthermore, a triangular icon 20c indicating the current temperature is displayed just below box 20b. The temperature can be freely changed by moving icon 20c left or right.

[0037] Below box 20b are a back button 20d for switching back to the previous screen and a confirm button 20e for reflecting the set temperature (determining the temperature generated by the stimulating unit 6a). After manipulating the parameters (box 20b, icon 20c), the user presses the confirm button 20e. This allows the temperature generated by the stimulating unit 6a to be reflected in the set temperature. Note that the display of the screen for setting the temperature generated by the stimulation unit 6a is just an example and is not limited to this. Any layout is acceptable as long as the screen allows for temperature setting. For example, the temperature at the position indicated by icon 20c (e.g., 40 degrees) could be displayed in the empty space on screen 20a.

[0038] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the left end of the box 20b is labeled "Cold" so that the temperature generated by the stimulating unit 6a decreases as you move to the left (generating cold heat), and the right end of the box 20b is labeled "Warm" so that the temperature generated by the stimulating unit 6a increases as you move to the right (generating warm heat). However, this is just one example and is not limited to this configuration. For example, box 20b could be displayed vertically (higher temperatures towards the top, and lower temperatures towards the bottom). Alternatively, a scale could be displayed with markings such as 10 degrees, 12 degrees, and 14 degrees. Displaying a scale allows the user to easily move icon 20c to any desired temperature. Any layout is acceptable as long as the screen allows temperature setting.

[0039] Figure 4(b) shows a screen where the intensity of stimulation is changed by operating buttons displayed on the screen (display unit 20a). As shown in Figure 4(b), the words "Please set the temperature" are displayed above the display unit 20a, and below the words are several temperature buttons 20f (buttons labeled 20 degrees, 30 degrees, and 40 degrees) for setting the temperature. Below the temperature buttons 20f are a back button 20d to switch to the previous screen, a next button 20g to switch to the next screen, and a confirm button 20e to reflect the set temperature (determine the temperature generated by the stimulation unit 6a).

[0040] By pressing the Next button (20g), you can switch screens, for example, from a screen displaying temperature buttons (20f) for 20°C, 30°C, and 40°C to a screen (the next screen) displaying temperature buttons (20f) for 15°C, 25°C, and 35°C. The user selects (operates) any temperature button 20f from the multiple displayed temperature buttons 20f, and then presses the confirm button 20e. By doing so, the temperature generated from the stimulation unit 6a can be set to the desired temperature.

[0041] Furthermore, it is preferable that the selected button is highlighted. Highlighting the selected button allows the user to easily understand which button is currently selected. By pressing the confirm button 20e while the selected temperature button 20f is highlighted, the temperature generated from the stimulation unit 6a can be set to the temperature corresponding to the selected temperature button 20f.

[0042] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the screen of the operation unit 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a diagram showing the state in which the stimulus application unit 6a is in operation, and (b) is a diagram showing the screen that is displayed when the driving time T measured by the measurement unit 12 exceeds a predetermined value. As shown in Figure 5(a), the screen (display unit 20a) displays a human-shaped icon indicating that the stimulation unit 6a is in operation. The icon for the stimulation unit 6a is displayed near the neck of the human-shaped icon.

[0043] To the upper left of the human-shaped icon, the words "In Operation" are displayed, indicating that the stimulation unit 6a is in operation. Immediately to the right of the "In Operation" text, the operating time T of the stimulation unit 6a is displayed. In this embodiment, "(5 minutes elapsed)" is displayed. Note that this screen does not need to be displayed at all times; it may be displayed alternately with icons indicating the operating status of other massage units M (for example, a chair-shaped icon) at predetermined intervals (for example, every 2 minutes). A stop button 20h and a back button 20d are displayed in the lower right of the screen. Pressing the stop button 20h stops the operation of the stimulation unit 6a. Pressing the back button 20d switches to the previous screen (for example, a screen displaying icons indicating the operating status of other massage units M).

[0044] Figure 5(b) shows the screen displayed when the driving time T measured by the measurement unit 12 exceeds a predetermined value. As shown in Figure 5(b), when the driving time T of the stimulation unit 6a exceeds a predetermined value (for example, 15 minutes), a screen is displayed to the user indicating that the operation of the stimulation unit 6a will be stopped. The displayed content is merely an example and is not limited to this. For example, it may be configured to display not only text but also icons (images). Any content is acceptable as long as it can inform the user that the drive of the stimulation unit 6a has been stopped.

[0045] In this embodiment, the message "15 minutes have elapsed. To prevent low-temperature burns, the operation of the stimulating unit 6a will be stopped shortly." is displayed on the screen (display unit 20a). A back button 20d is displayed in the lower right corner of the screen. By pressing the back button 20d, the user can switch to the previous screen (for example, a screen displaying icons indicating the operation status of other massage units M). Before stopping the operation of the stimulation unit 6a, a screen indicating that the operation of the stimulation unit 6a will be stopped can be displayed to inform the user in advance that the stimulation unit 6a will be stopped.

[0046] [Pillow section composition] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the pillow portion 6 according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a view from the front, (b) is a view from the bottom, and (c) is a view of the AA cross section in (a) from the left. Figure 7 is an enlarged schematic diagram of the area around the stimulation portion 6a provided on the right extension portion 6d according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a view from the left, and (b) is a view of the BB cross section in (a) from the rear. Figure 8 is an enlarged schematic diagram of the area around the stimulation portion 6a provided on the right extension portion 6d according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a view from the left, and (b) is a view of the CC cross section in (c) from the rear.

[0047] As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 6, a pillow section 6 is attached to the upper side of the backrest section 4 to support the user's head. The pillow section 6 is roughly U-shaped. More specifically, the recess 6b has a keyhole-like shape, combining a circle and a square (similar to the shape of a keyhole-shaped burial mound). By fitting the user's neck into the roughly U-shaped recess 6b, the user's head can be supported. The pillow section 6 has a predetermined thickness in the front-to-back direction and has a roughly trapezoidal shape when viewed from the side (see Figures 6(b) and 6(c)).

[0048] More specifically, the pillow section 6 is composed of a main body section 6c that is elongated in the left-right direction, and extensions 6d that extend in a direction intersecting the main body section 6c. The pillow section 6 has a recess 6b. The recess 6b is a space formed by the main body section 6c and the left and right extensions 6d. The extensions 6d extend downward (towards the seat section 3) from both the left and right sides of the main body section 6c. The pillow section 6 is made of an elastic material that has cushioning properties. As an example, the pillow section 6 is made by covering an elastic resin material such as urethane with stitching made of synthetic leather or fibers such as cotton.

[0049] The front surface of the pillow portion 6 (the side that contacts the user) extends straight from the top (backrest portion 4 side) to the bottom (seat portion 3 side), and from the middle, it slopes toward the back side (backrest portion 4 side) of the pillow portion 6 so that the thickness in the front-to-back direction gradually decreases as it moves toward the bottom (seat portion 3 side). Similarly, the back surface of the pillow portion 6 (the side that contacts the backrest portion 4) extends straight from the top (backrest portion 4 side) to the bottom (seat portion 3 side), and from the middle, it slopes toward the front side (user side) of the pillow portion 6 so that the thickness in the front-to-back direction gradually decreases as it moves toward the bottom (seat portion 3 side). In other words, the pillow portion 6 is formed in a roughly trapezoidal shape, with the upper side being longer than the lower side when viewed from the left side in the left-to-right direction, and the front and back surfaces of the pillow portion 6 are symmetrical. (See Figure 6(c) in particular).

[0050] In this embodiment, the extension portion 6d intersects the main body portion 6c at a 90-degree angle, but this is just an example and is not limited to this. The extension portion 6d only needs to extend in a direction that intersects the main body portion 6c. For example, when viewed from the front, the width between the left and right extensions 6d may gradually narrow as you move from the upper side (backrest 4 side) to the lower side (seat 3 side), so that each of the left and right extensions 6d intersects the main body 6c at a predetermined angle (for example, 75 degrees) inward in the left-right direction. By gradually narrowing the width between the left and right extensions 6d, the stimulating part 6a can be brought into closer contact with the user's neck (more specifically, the position opposite the carotid artery in the neck).

[0051] Furthermore, the pillow section 6 may be configured to be detachable from the backrest section 4 and used as a standalone unit. When the pillow section 6 is used as a standalone unit, it is preferable that it has a built-in rechargeable battery. It is also preferable that the control unit 20 is provided directly or indirectly via a cord to the pillow section 6 (main body section 6a, extension section 6d). By configuring the pillow section 6 to be usable as a standalone unit, the user can use the pillow section 6 regardless of location. For example, by fitting the pillow section 6 around the neck and lying down on a commercially available mattress, the pillow section 6 can be used in a supine position.

[0052] Furthermore, the pillow portion 6 may be attached to the backrest portion 4 so as to be movable in the vertical direction. The vertical movement may be done manually or electrically. By configuring the pillow portion 6 to be movable, the vertical position of the pillow portion 6 can be adjusted to suit the user's sitting height.

[0053] [Configuration of the stimulation unit] As shown in Figures 6 to 8, the stimulation unit 6a is for stimulating the user's neck. More specifically, it is for providing thermal stimulation and / or cold stimulation to the user's neck. Thermal and cold stimulation can also provide the user with a kind of massage effect. In other words, the stimulation-applying part 6a also has the function (aspect) of a massage part M.

[0054] The stimulation-applying section 6a is provided on the extension section 6d that constitutes the pillow section 6. By providing the stimulation-applying section 6a on the extension section 6d, the stimulation-applying section 6a can be positioned to correspond to the user's neck. More specifically, one stimulation-applying section 6a is attached to each of the left and right extension sections 6d, on their inner sides in the left-right direction (the side that contacts the user's neck). By providing the stimulation-applying section 6a on the pillow section 6 (extension section 6d), the user's neck can be massaged with thermal and / or cold stimulation.

[0055] Furthermore, the position where the stimulating part 6a is attached is close to the lower end of the extension part 6d (towards the seat part 3). This position is opposite to the carotid artery in the user's neck. When the user leans against the pillow part 6, the user's head is supported by the pillow part 6 (more specifically, the main body part 6c). At this time, the user's neck is fitted into the space between the left and right extension parts 6d (the recess 6b).

[0056] In other words, by attaching the stimulating part 6a to a position close to the lower end of the extended part 6d (towards the seat part 3) (a position facing the carotid artery in the user's neck), when the user leans against the pillow part 6, the stimulating part 6a on the extended part 6d comes into contact with the user's neck (more specifically, the carotid artery). In this state, by driving the stimulating part 6a, thermal and / or cold stimulation can be applied to the carotid artery. The carotid artery is one of the largest blood vessels and carries a large amount of blood, so applying thermal and / or cold stimulation to the carotid artery can effectively warm or cool the body.

[0057] The stimulation provided by the stimulation unit 6a consists of two types: thermal stimulation using heat and cold stimulation using cold. The thermal and cold stimulation can be switched between by the control unit 8. By making the thermal and cold stimulation switchable, the user can be given either thermal or cold stimulation. Thermal stimulation is a method of stimulating the body by applying energy such as heat or electromagnetic waves. Thermal stimulation can increase metabolism, alleviate pain, promote sleep, and induce relaxation. Cold stimulation is a method of stimulating the body by applying cold. Cold stimulation can improve edema, relieve pain, and reduce spasticity.

[0058] Furthermore, the intensity of the stimulation from the stimulation unit 6a is controlled by the control unit 8. The intensity of the stimulation is the temperature emitted by the stimulation unit 6a (the temperature generated from the stimulation unit 6a). The intensity of the stimulation can be changed by changing the temperature. For example, in the case of heat, the higher the temperature, the stronger the stimulation (35 degrees Celsius provides a stronger stimulation than 30 degrees Celsius). In the case of cold, the lower the temperature, the stronger the stimulation (15 degrees Celsius provides a stronger stimulation than 20 degrees Celsius).

[0059] The temperature generated by the stimulation unit 6a can be changed within a range of 16 to 40 degrees Celsius, which is a temperature that will not cause injury to the user. By setting an upper limit on the intensity (temperature) range of the stimulation from the stimulation unit 6a (limiting the range of temperatures that can be set), it is possible to prevent the user from getting burned. Also, by setting a lower limit on the intensity (temperature) range of the stimulation from the stimulation unit 6a (limiting the range of temperatures that can be set), it is possible to prevent the user from getting frostbite.

[0060] Thermal stimulation can be applied using one of the following methods: dry heat, moist heat, or conversion heat. This allows for a greater variety of thermal stimulation options. Dry heat is a method of heating the area being treated while removing moisture. For example, this involves warming the area being treated (in this embodiment, the user's neck) with a heater. Moist heat is a method of heating the area being treated while adding moisture. For example, this involves warming the area being treated (in this embodiment, the user's neck) by filling a thick fibrous bag with a highly heat-retaining material such as silica gel or bentonite and heating it with a heater, or by placing a cloth soaked in moisture between the heater and the area being treated (in this embodiment, the user's neck). Conversion heat is a method of converting the energy of electromagnetic waves, such as ultrasound or ultra-short waves, into thermal energy within the tissue of the area being treated. For example, this involves warming the tissue within the area being treated with ultra-short waves.

[0061] Cold stimulation can be applied using one of the following methods: convection cooling, evaporative cooling, or conduction cooling. This allows for a greater variety of cold stimulation options. Convection cooling is a method of cooling by moving a fluid (gas or liquid) such as air or water to transfer heat. For example, this can be done by using a fan to blow air. Evaporative cooling is a method of cooling by utilizing the heat of vaporization, where a liquid absorbs heat from its surroundings when it vaporizes. For example, this can be done by flowing water through a group of tubes with a large surface area and bringing it into contact with the surrounding airflow. Conduction cooling is a cooling method in which heat-generating components are attached to a metal plate, and heat is released to the outside through that metal plate. For example, this can be done by attaching a heater to a metal plate such as an aluminum substrate. Furthermore, by using a Peltier element in the stimulation unit 6a, it is possible to easily switch between thermal and cold stimulation.

[0062] Figure 7 is a schematic, enlarged view of the area around the stimulation unit 6a provided on the right extension 6d according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a view from the left and (b) is a view of the BB cross section in (a) from the rear. The stimulation unit 6a shown in Figure 7 is constructed using either a moist heat method or an evaporative cooling method. As shown in Figure 7, the stimulation unit 6a is composed of multiple components combined together. The stimulation unit 6a consists of a heat source 60 for generating heat or cold, a cover member 61 to prevent the heat source 60 from coming into direct contact with the user, and a mounting part 6e for attaching the cover member 61.

[0063] In this embodiment, the mounting portion 6e is attached to the side surface of the extension portion 6d in pairs vertically, but this is just an example and is not limited to this configuration. Any configuration is acceptable as long as the cover member 61 can be attached to the extension portion 6d via the mounting portion 6e. For example, it may be attached to the side surface of the extension portion 6d in pairs horizontally, or it may be attached in pairs vertically and horizontally.

[0064] The cover member 61 is composed of two cover members 61. More specifically, it is composed of a first cover member 61a that comes into contact with the part of the user being treated, and a second cover member 61b that is located between the heat source 60 and the first cover member 61a. The second cover member 61b is necessary to add moisture to the part of the user being treated. Therefore, if the stimulation unit 6a is configured by a method other than moist heat or evaporative cooling (for example, dry heat), the cover member 61 can be reduced to just one (only the first cover member 61a).

[0065] Furthermore, if the stimulating unit 6a is configured using a method other than moist heat or evaporative cooling (for example, dry heat), a fan 63 may be installed instead of the second cover member 61b. In this case, the heat or cold generated from the stimulating unit 6a can be delivered to the user via the fan 63.

[0066] The first cover member 61a comes into contact with the area of ​​the user being treated, so it is preferable that it be made of a material that feels good against the skin. For example, smooth synthetic leather or silk. The surface of the first cover member 61a is provided with numerous holes 62. The heat / cold generated from the stimulation unit 6a is transmitted to the user through the holes 62 in the first cover member 61a via the second cover member 61b.

[0067] The second cover member 61b is preferably made of a material with high water retention and heat retention properties. For example, it may be made of cotton, silica gel, or bentonite. By driving the stimulation unit 6a while the second cover member 61b is saturated with moisture, heat / cold can be applied to the treatment area while simultaneously applying heat to the user.

[0068] A method for attaching the cover members 61 (first cover member 61a, second cover member 61b) to the extension 6d will be described. As shown in Figure 7(a), the extension 6d has a stimulating part 6a attached to it, and mounting parts 6e for attaching the cover members 61 are provided above and below the stimulating part 6a. The user places the moistened second cover member 61b on top of the stimulating part 6a, and then places the first cover member 61a on top of that. In this state, the top and bottom edges of the first cover member 61a are fixed with the mounting parts 6e. In this way, the second cover member 61b can be kept inside the first cover member 61a. The mounting method is merely an example and is not limited to this. Any configuration is acceptable as long as the stimulating part 6a can be covered by the cover member 61 so that it is not exposed to the outside.

[0069] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an enlarged view of the area around the stimulation unit 6a provided on the right extension 6d according to one embodiment of the present invention, where (a) is a view from the left and (b) is a view of the CC cross section in (c) from the rear. The basic configuration is the same as in Figure 7. The difference from Figure 7 is the presence or absence of the fan 63 provided on the front side of the stimulation unit 6a. Therefore, the explanation of the configuration which is the same as in Figure 7 will be omitted.

[0070] As shown in Figure 8(b), a fan 63 is provided in front of the stimulation unit 6a. The fan 63 is designed to efficiently transmit the heat / cold generated from the stimulation unit 6a to the user. When the heat source 60 and fan 63 are driven with moisture absorbed into the second cover member 61b, the heat generated from the heat source 60 is pushed towards the user by the fan 3. The pushed-away heat is absorbed by the second cover member 61b. More specifically, the heat is absorbed by the second cover member 61b, and the moisture contained in the second cover member 61b evaporates. As the moisture evaporates, heat of vaporization is generated. The generated heat of vaporization is delivered to the area being treated through the holes 62 in the first cover member 61a. In this way, a cold stimulus can be applied to the user.

[0071] Furthermore, if high-temperature heat is generated from the heat source 60 in relation to the moisture contained in the second cover member 61b (i.e., if the heat exceeds the permissible range of the second cover member 61b), sufficient heat of vaporization will not be obtained, and relatively high-temperature air will be delivered to the user. This will provide the user with thermal stimulation.

[0072] In this embodiment, the pillow section 6 attached to the chair-type massage machine 1 has been described as part of the configuration of the massage machine 1, but this is just one example and is not limited to this configuration. For example, the massage machine may be configured with the pillow section 6 alone. [Industrial applicability]

[0073] This invention can be applied to a chair-type massage machine that can safely apply stimulation to the user's neck with a simple configuration. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0074] Pillow part 6 Stimulation section 6a Main body 6c Extension part 6d

Claims

1. The backrest and, It has a pillow section attached to the backrest that supports the user's head, The pillow portion is composed of a main body and extensions extending from both the left and right sides of the main body. The aforementioned extension is, It extends in a direction intersecting the main body, A chair-type massage machine characterized by being provided with a stimulation-applying unit for applying thermal and / or cold stimulation to the user's neck.

2. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the stimulation-applying part is located on the side of the extended part and is positioned opposite the carotid artery in the user's neck.

3. It has a control unit that controls the drive of the stimulation unit, The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the control unit controls the intensity of stimulation provided by the stimulation unit.

4. The intensity of the stimulus is the temperature emitted by the stimulus-applying unit. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 3, characterized in that the temperature can be changed within the range of 16 to 40 degrees.

5. It has a measuring unit for measuring the operating time of the stimulation unit, The chair-type massage machine according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit stops the operation of the stimulation application unit when the driving time measured by the measurement unit exceeds a predetermined value.

6. The aforementioned stimulation-applying unit provides thermal stimulation and cold stimulation. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 3, characterized in that the control unit is configured to switch between the thermal stimulation and the cold stimulation.

7. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the thermal stimulation is dry heat, moist heat, or conversion heat.

8. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the cold stimulus is of the convection cooling type, evaporative cooling type, or conduction cooling type.

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