Acupuncture point stimulation device and acupuncture point stimulation method using the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to an acupoint stimulation device and an acupoint stimulation method using the same, which includes a power supply unit that supplies power, a control unit that generates an electrical stimulation signal to be applied to the skin of a subject, and an electrical stimulation unit that receives power from the power supply unit and has two or more electrodes that supply stimulation signals to acupoint sites, the electrodes being arranged electrically insulated from each other and in electrical contact with the skin of the subject. This allows stimulation to be provided to accurate acupoint sites, providing the appropriate amount of stimulation required for treatment and symptom relief.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an acupuncture point stimulating device and an acupuncture point stimulating method using the same, and more particularly to an acupuncture point stimulating device used in Chinese medicine, manual therapy, etc., for stimulating acupuncture points, which are important reaction points that appear on the skin and muscles, to promote flow of the pathways and relieve symptoms related to the acupuncture points, and a method of stimulating the acupuncture points using the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Traditional acupuncture in Chinese medicine is a method of treating disease by inserting invasive metal needles into acupuncture points to stimulate the flow of meridians.

[0003] Recently, electroacupuncture and thermoacupuncture have been used to improve the effects of traditional acupuncture.

[0004] Electroacupuncture is a treatment method that combines traditional acupuncture with an electrical stimulation device. Electroacupuncture is a treatment method in which a metal needle is placed on the skin, a clip is attached to the needle handle to apply electrical stimulation to the metal needle, and electrical stimulation is applied to the corresponding acupuncture points.

[0005] Patent Document 1 discloses an electrically conductive needle having a spherical, conductive needle handle that constitutes the upper part of the needle body, and an insulating layer coated on the surface of the needle body.

[0006] However, this electroacupuncture therapy is inconvenient because it requires attaching a clip to the metal needle before use. In addition, the weight of the clip attached to the top of the metal needle causes the needle to bend when placed on the skin, changing the direction of the needle tip. In particular, since the stimulation signal is transmitted to the metal needle as a pulse wave, the magnitude of the signal can be set, but since the application time of the signal is short, it is difficult to provide the appropriate amount of stimulation required for treatment.

[0007] Warm acupuncture is a combination of traditional acupuncture and mugwort moxibustion. In warm acupuncture, a metal needle is placed on the skin, and then a moxa post is attached to the needle handle to deliver the moxibustion, in order to enhance the therapeutic effect according to the symptoms of the disease. This warm acupuncture is inconvenient and has the risk of causing burns.

[0008] Patent Document 2 discloses an electric heating needle with a space formed inside the needle handle for storing a moxa stick that covers the needle body. The needle body is formed of a needle tip that is exposed to the outside of the needle handle and transmits an electric stimulation signal supplied from the outside to the skin, and a needle frame that is placed inside the needle handle and is heated by an electric current to ignite the moxa stick.

[0009] This electric heating needle had problems with the needle bending under the weight of the moxa stick, and because the human body has a large heat capacity, the amount of heat transferred from the mugwort moxa stick to the human body via the metal needle was small, resulting in a low therapeutic effect.

[0010] On the other hand, a general electrical stimulation device is a medical device that electrically stimulates muscles and nerves of the human body for the purpose of pain relief, rehabilitation treatment, muscle exercise, etc. Electrical stimulation can change the strength, waveform, frequency, etc. of the current.

[0011] Patent Document 3 discloses a TENS device that includes an electrical signal generator that generates an electrical stimulation signal, an electrode unit that transmits the electrical stimulation signal generated by the electrical signal generator to a user via electrodes, and a coupling means that couples the electrical signal generator and the electrode unit, the electrode unit including a pair of ring-shaped contacts for forming an electrical connection between the electrical signal generator and the electrode unit.

[0012] The above-mentioned conventional electrical stimulation device, when attached to the skin including the acupuncture points, stimulates a wide area of ​​the skin, which makes it difficult to stimulate the deep areas of the skin where the acupuncture points are located. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0013] [Patent Document 1] Korean Patent No. 10-1405060 [Patent Document 2] Korean Patent No. 10-2046051 [Patent Document 3] Korean Patent No. 10-1669181 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0014] In order to solve the problems of the background art mentioned above, the present invention aims to provide an acupuncture point stimulation device and an acupuncture point stimulation method using the same, which can prevent the problem of metal needles bending and stimulating parts other than acupuncture points and stimulate the exact acupuncture point location.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide an acupoint stimulation device and an acupoint stimulation method using the same that provide an appropriate amount of stimulation required for treatment and symptom relief.

[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide an acupuncture point stimulating device for stimulating a deep local area where an acupuncture point is located, and an acupuncture point stimulating method using the same. [Means for solving the problem]

[0017] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention relates to an acupuncture point stimulation device for electrically stimulating an acupuncture point site including an acupuncture point and a surrounding area of ​​the acupuncture point on a subject. The acupuncture point stimulation device includes a power supply unit for supplying power, a control unit for generating an electrical stimulation signal to be applied to the skin of the subject, and an electrical stimulation unit having two or more electrodes that receive power from the power supply unit and supply the stimulation signal to the acupuncture point site, the electrodes being arranged in a mutually electrically insulated state and electrically contacting the skin of the subject.

[0018] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit comprises: a wiring layer in which wiring is formed to electrically connect the electrodes; an adhesive layer arranged below the wiring layer and provided with an adhesive that can be detachably attached to the skin at the acupuncture point site; and the electrodes are exposed on the underside of the adhesive layer.

[0019] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit includes a main body portion that is detachable from the subject and has two or more contact terminals that electrically contact the acupuncture point sites; and a mount portion that is coupled to the main body portion and has the electrodes; and when the main body portion and the mount portion are coupled, the electrodes are electrically connected to the contact terminals.

[0020] Preferably, the mount portion is fitted to the main body portion.

[0021] Preferably, the mount portion is aligned and coupled to the main body portion by magnetic force.

[0022] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit further includes a fixing unit for closely fixing the contact terminal to the skin at the acupuncture point site.

[0023] Preferably, the fixing portion is in the form of a band or belt made of an elastic material.

[0024] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit has a center-to-center distance of 5 mm to 30 mm between two selected electrodes of the electrodes so as to supply the stimulation signal to the acupuncture point site.

[0025] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit includes three or more electrodes, and the control unit applies the stimulation signal to an electrode pair consisting of two selected electrodes from among the electrodes.

[0026] Preferably, the control unit applies the stimulation signal alternately to each of the electrode pairs.

[0027] Preferably, the device further includes a bio-signal measuring unit for measuring the bio-signal of the subject; and the control unit calculates a bio-level from the bio-signal measured by the bio-signal measuring unit, compares the calculated bio-level with a predetermined target bio-level, and generates the stimulation signal.

[0028] Preferably, the biosignal measuring unit includes a first biosignal measuring unit provided inside the acupoint stimulation device and measuring a biosignal from the skin at the position where the electrical stimulation unit is placed; and the control unit is a first control unit provided inside the acupoint stimulation device.

[0029] Preferably, the biosignal measuring unit is composed of a first biosignal measuring unit provided inside the acupoint stimulation device, and further includes a stimulation device communication unit provided inside the acupoint stimulation device, transmitting the biosignal measured by the first biosignal measuring unit and receiving the stimulation signal; and a user terminal including a terminal communication unit receiving the biosignal from the stimulation device communication unit and transmitting the stimulation signal, and a second control unit generating the stimulation signal in response to the biosignal received from the terminal communication unit.

[0030] Preferably, the device further includes a bioinformation collector provided apart from the acupoint stimulation device and including a second biosignal measuring unit constituting the biosignal measuring unit and a collector communication unit transmitting the biosignal measured by the second biosignal measuring unit; a user terminal including a terminal communication unit receiving the biosignal from the collector communication unit and transmitting the stimulation signal by the stimulation device communication unit, and a second control unit generating the stimulation signal in response to the biosignal received from the terminal communication unit; and a stimulation device communication unit provided inside the acupoint stimulation device and receiving the stimulation signal.

[0031] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit includes three or more electrodes, and the control unit alternately applies a stimulation signal to each electrode pair including two selected from the electrodes, calculates a biolevel from the biosignal from each electrode pair to which the stimulation signal is applied, and then sets an electrode pair having a relatively superior biolevel among the biolevels as a reference electrode pair and applies the stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0032] Preferably, the electrical stimulation unit includes three or more electrodes, and the control unit measures the biopotential of each electrode, calculates the biopotential similarity of each electrode from the biopotential, sets an electrode pair having a relatively high biopotential similarity as a reference electrode pair, and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0033] Preferably, the device further includes a temperature sensor unit that measures the skin temperature at the acupuncture point site, and the control unit controls the supply of the stimulation signal to stop when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches a set temperature.

[0034] Preferably, the device further includes a temperature sensor unit that measures the skin temperature at the acupuncture point site; and a heating unit to which power is supplied from the power supply unit in order to increase the temperature deep inside the acupuncture point site; and the control unit controls so as to cut off the power supplied to the heating unit when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches a set temperature.

[0035] Preferably, the heating unit is an induction coil that is disposed parallel to the skin surface at the acupuncture point site while being spaced apart from the electrodes, and generates eddy currents deep inside the skin to generate heat. Preferably, the heating unit is an LED disposed between the electrodes and configured to irradiate the deep area with light energy.

[0036] Another aspect of the present invention for solving the above-mentioned problems is an acupoint stimulation method using the above-mentioned acupoint stimulation device, which includes the steps of: placing the acupoint stimulation device at an expected acupoint site of the subject; alternately applying the stimulation signal to each electrode pair consisting of two selected electrodes from the electrodes; calculating a biolevel from the biosignal from each electrode pair to which the stimulation signal is applied; setting an electrode pair having a relatively superior biolevel among the biolevels as a reference electrode pair; and applying the stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0037] Preferably, the method includes the steps of placing the acupoint stimulation device at an expected acupoint site on the subject's body; measuring the biopotential of each electrode; calculating the biopotential similarity of each electrode from the biopotential; setting an electrode pair having a relatively high biopotential similarity as a reference electrode pair; and applying the stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair. Effect of the Invention

[0038] According to the acupuncture point stimulating device and acupuncture point stimulating method of the present invention, the present invention can stimulate precise acupuncture points and provide an appropriate amount of stimulation required for treatment and symptom relief. Furthermore, by providing an adhesive layer, the present invention can be easily attached to and detached from the skin at the acupuncture point site.

[0039] Furthermore, since the electrical stimulation unit of the present invention comprises a main body portion and a mounting portion, the electrodes provided in the mounting portion can be protected, and the main body portion and the mounting portion can be easily attached and detached by being fitted together or connected by magnetic force.

[0040] Furthermore, by further including a fixing portion, the present invention can fix the electrical stimulation portion in close contact with the skin.

[0041] Furthermore, the present invention can provide stimulation not only to the acupuncture points but also to the areas surrounding the acupuncture points by alternately applying stimulation signals to each electrode pair.

[0042] In addition, by further including a biosignal measuring unit, the present invention can control the stimulation signal by comparing the biolevel calculated from the measured biosignal with a target biolevel, thereby providing a stimulation signal suitable for the current biostatus.

[0043] Furthermore, the present invention can provide stimulation to precise acupuncture points that enhance vital signs by applying a stimulation signal to the electrode pair that has the highest vital signs among the electrode pairs.

[0044] Furthermore, the present invention can effectively stimulate acupuncture points at localized locations by determining the location of the acupuncture points from the bioelectric potential similarity of each electrode and providing stimulation to the precise acupuncture point location.

[0045] Furthermore, since the present invention further includes a temperature sensor unit, it is possible to control the supply of the stimulation signal in accordance with the skin temperature at the acupuncture point site, thereby preventing burns and damage to the skin.

[0046] In addition, the present invention further includes a heating unit, which can increase the temperature deep inside the acupuncture point to improve the stimulation effect and biological level. The power supplied to the heating unit can be cut off according to the measured temperature to prevent burns and damage to the skin. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0047] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing an acupoint stimulating device of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a first structure of the electrical stimulation unit constituting the present invention. [Diagram 3] 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a second structure of the electrical stimulation unit constituting the present invention. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a main body constituting the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is an assembled cross-sectional view showing a third structure of the electrical stimulation unit constituting the present invention. [Figure 6] 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a third structure of the electrical stimulation unit constituting the present invention. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a belt-shaped fastening part of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which the belt-shaped fixing part of the present invention is worn. [Figure 9] 1 is a side view showing a state in which an electrical stimulation unit is fixed using a band-shaped fixing portion made of an elastic material according to the present invention. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first electrode arrangement method of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a second electrode arrangement method of the present invention. [Figure 12]FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a third electrode arrangement method of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a fourth electrode arrangement method of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a fifth electrode arrangement method of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a sixth electrode arrangement method of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the biopotential similarity of each electrode in an experiment in the sixth electrode placement method of the present invention. [Figure 17] A diagram showing the location of the Zusanli point on the target body. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first acupoint stimulating method of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a second acupoint stimulating method of the present invention. [Figure 20] A diagram showing the location of the Shenmen point on the target body. [Figure 21] A diagram showing the state in which an electrical stimulation unit is placed on the Shenmen point of a subject. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 illustrates the location of the median nerve in a subject. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THEINVENTION

[0048] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The acupoint stimulation device of the present invention can be classified into first to third embodiments. The components of each embodiment are basically the same, but there are some differences in the components.

[0049] The acupuncture point stimulation device of the present invention provides stimulation to acupuncture points including acupuncture points and the areas surrounding the acupuncture points. Acupuncture points are used in traditional Chinese medicine and manual therapy, and are important reaction points that appear on the skin and muscles. In general, acupuncture point stimulation means stimulating the acupuncture points below the knee joint of a subject or the nerves surrounding the acupuncture points. Stimulating the acupuncture points promotes the flow of meridians, alleviating symptoms associated with the acupuncture points and aiding in the treatment of diseases. In other words, the acupuncture point stimulation device of the present invention is a device that electrically stimulates the acupuncture points of a subject. Here, the subject refers to animals including humans.

[0050] The acupoint stimulation device according to the first embodiment includes a power supply unit 110, a control unit, an electrical stimulation unit 130, a first biological signal measurement unit 140, a temperature sensor unit 150, and a heating unit 160, as shown in FIG.

[0051] The power supply unit 110 is connected to an external power source or has an internal power source. The internal power source of the power supply unit 110 may be a battery. The battery is rechargeable and can be used any number of times. The power supply unit 110 may be configured to be detachable from the electrical stimulation unit 130. The power supply unit 110 supplies power to the electrical stimulation unit 130, the first biological signal measurement unit 140, the temperature sensor unit 150, and the heating unit 160 as necessary.

[0052] The control unit includes a first control unit 120 provided inside the acupoint stimulation device.

[0053] The first control unit 120 generates an electrical stimulation signal to be applied to the skin of the subject. The first control unit 120 applies the generated stimulation signal to the electrical stimulation unit 130.

[0054] The first control unit 120 is provided in the acupoint stimulation device 100. The first control unit 120 collects signals measured inside the acupoint stimulation device 100, processes the collected signals to generate a stimulation signal, and then applies the stimulation signal to the electrical stimulation unit 130 to control the electrical stimulation unit 130.

[0055] The electrical stimulation unit 130 supplies the stimulation signal generated by the first control unit 120 to the acupuncture point site. The electrical stimulation unit 130 includes two or more electrodes. The electrodes are arranged in a state of being electrically insulated from each other and are in electrical contact with the skin of the subject.

[0056] The electrical stimulation unit 130 constituting the present invention can be classified into three types according to its structure.

[0057] First, as shown in FIG. 2, electrical stimulation unit 130a of the first structure includes electrode 131a, base layer 132a, wiring layer 133a, and adhesive layer 134a.

[0058] A plurality of electrodes 131a are provided, and a stimulation signal generated by the first control unit 120 is supplied to the acupuncture point sites.

[0059] Base layer 132a is a layer that determines the shape of electrical stimulation section 130a, and has a plurality of electrodes 131a disposed in an insulated state on the lower portion.

[0060] The wiring layer 133a is a layer in which wiring is formed to electrically connect the electrodes 131a arranged under the base layer 132a, and is formed so that wiring is connected to each electrode 131a.

[0061] The adhesive layer 134a is disposed under the wiring layer 133a and is made of an adhesive that is removably attached to the skin at the acupuncture point. At this time, the electrode 131a is exposed on the lower surface of the adhesive layer 134a. This allows the electrode 131a to adhere closely to the skin, and the electrode 131a can more effectively supply a stimulation signal to the acupuncture point. The adhesive layer 134a is removably attached to the skin by the adhesive, so that the electrical stimulation unit 130a can be easily fixed to any part of the body.

[0062] The electrical stimulation portion 130b of the second structure includes a body portion 135b and a mounting portion 136b, as shown in FIGS.

[0063] The main body 135b is detachably attached to the skin of the subject. The main body 135b includes two or more contact terminals 139b that are in electrical contact with the acupuncture points. The contact terminals 139b are in close contact with the skin.

[0064] The mount portion 136b is fitted into the main body portion 135b, and the electrode 131b is exposed at the bottom. In this case, the main body portion 135b is preferably formed so as to surround a part of the side surface and the surface edge of the mount portion 136b. In this way, the mount portion 130b is fitted into the main body portion 135b. Although not shown, the main body portion may be formed so as to be fitted into the mount portion.

[0065] With the main body portion 135b and the mount portion 136b joined together, the electrode 131b and the contact terminal 139b are arranged to be electrically connected to each other.

[0066] This allows the user to easily attach and detach mount portion 136b with main body portion 135b in close contact with the skin of the subject. Also, the exposed portion of electrode 131b is protected by main body portion 135b to prevent contamination of electrode 131b, and is electrically connected to the skin via each contact terminal.

[0067] The electrical stimulation portion 130c of the third configuration includes a body portion 135c, a mounting portion 136c, and a magnet 137c, as shown in FIGS.

[0068] The main body 135c is detachably attached to the skin of the subject. The main body 135c includes two or more contact terminals 139c that are in electrical contact with the acupuncture points. The contact terminals 139c are in close contact with the skin. The main body 135c includes a magnet 137c on its upper portion.

[0069] The mount portion 136c is provided so that the electrode 131c is exposed at the lower portion thereof. When the main body portion 135c and the mount portion 136c are joined, the exposed electrode 131c and the contact terminal 139c are arranged so as to be electrically connected to each other.

[0070] The mount 136c has a magnet attachment 137c-1 disposed at a position corresponding to the magnet 137c of the main body 135c. The magnet attachment 137c-1 is made of a material that forms an attractive force with the magnet by magnetic force, such as metal. This allows the main body 135c and the mount 136c to be coupled by magnetic force and aligned by magnetic force.

[0071] Although not shown, magnets may be provided on both the mount and the main body, or the mount may be provided with a magnet attachment portion and the main body may be provided with a magnet.

[0072] Although not shown, in order to improve the joining strength between the main body and the mount, a protrusion may be formed on the end of the main body to prevent the mount from slipping.

[0073] The magnet 137c and the magnet attachment portion 137c-1 are preferably disposed on the surface where the main body portion 135c and the mount portion 136c come into contact, and may be disposed inside the main body portion 135c or the mount portion 136c.

[0074] The electrical stimulation portions 130b, 130c of the second and third structures may further include a fixing portion.

[0075] The fixing portion is configured to fix the contact terminals 139b and 139c in a state of being in close contact with the skin of the acupuncture point site. The fixing portion may be formed in a belt shape or a band shape made of an elastic material.

[0076] As shown in Fig. 7, belt-like fixed part 138b sandwiches electrical stimulation part 130b to form a belt. As a result, both ends of the belts on both sides are connected and fixed to each other, like a general watch belt. This fixed part 138b can be wrapped around the wrist to fix electrical stimulation part 130b to the wrist, as shown in Fig. 8. In addition, the electrical stimulation part can be fixed to a body part around which the fixed part is wrapped, such as the forearm, ankle, or leg, in addition to the wrist.

[0077] 9, band-shaped fixing portion 138c made of an elastic material presses electrical stimulation portion 130c against the skin with its elastic force when electrical stimulation portion 130c is in contact with the skin, thereby improving the adhesion between the contact terminal of electrical stimulation portion 130c and the skin.

[0078] The band-shaped fixing portion 138c made of an elastic material can fix the electrical stimulation portion to various body parts that can be fixed with a band, such as the wrist, forearm, ankle, leg, foot, back of the hand, and head.

[0079] The electrical stimulation unit 130 may include two or more electrodes, more preferably three or more electrodes, arranged in a variety of ways. Various methods of electrode arrangement are described below.

[0080] 10, the electrical stimulation unit 130d has electrodes 131d arranged on the top, bottom, left and right of the figure. At this time, a positive electrode 131d-1 and a negative electrode 131d-2 are applied to each of two electrodes selected from the electrodes 131d, and electrical stimulation can be provided to the acupuncture point site to which the electrical stimulation unit 130d is attached.

[0081] The positive electrode 131d-1 and the negative electrode 131d-2 are selected by the switch unit 121 of the first control unit 120. The switch unit 121 selects two electrodes from the multiple electrodes 131d, applies the positive electrode 131d-1 to one electrode 131d, and applies the negative electrode 131d-2 to the other electrode 131d. The positive electrode 131d-1 and the negative electrode 131d-2 are variable under the control of the switch unit 121. As a result, the position of the acupuncture point site to which the electrical stimulation is provided can be adjusted depending on the positions of the selected positive electrode 131d-1 and negative electrode 131d-2.

[0082] 11, the electrical stimulation unit 130e has one electrode 131e arranged at the center of the figure, and one each at the top, bottom, left and right of the figure. At this time, a positive electrode 131e-1 and a negative electrode 131e-2 are applied to each of two selected electrodes of the electrodes 131e, so that electrical stimulation can be provided to the acupuncture point site to which the electrical stimulation unit 130e is attached.

[0083] The positive electrode 131e-1 and the negative electrode 131e-2 are variable under the control of a switch unit, so that the positions of the acupuncture points to which electrical stimulation is applied can be adjusted according to the positions of the selected positive electrode 131e-1 and negative electrode 131e-2.

[0084] 12, in electrical stimulation unit 130f, electrodes 131f are arranged in a matrix shape inside a virtual rectangle. Specifically, electrodes 131f are arranged in 3 rows and 6 columns. At this time, positive electrode 131f-1 and negative electrode 131f-2 are applied to each of two selected electrodes of electrodes 131f, and electrical stimulation can be provided to the acupuncture point site to which electrical stimulation unit 130f is attached.

[0085] The positive electrode 131f-1 and the negative electrode 131f-2 can be changed by controlling the switch unit, so that the position of the acupuncture point to which the electrical stimulation is applied can be adjusted according to the selected positions of the positive electrode 131f-1 and the negative electrode 131f-2.

[0086] As shown in Fig. 13, in electrical stimulation unit 130g, electrodes 131g are arranged inside a virtual cross shape. Specifically, electrodes 131g may be arranged in two rows and two columns with four electrodes in the center, and two electrodes may be arranged in each of the regions extending up, down, left, and right from the four central electrodes. At this time, positive electrode 131g-1 and negative electrode 131g-2 are applied to each of two selected electrodes from electrodes 131f, and electrical stimulation can be provided to the acupuncture point site to which electrical stimulation unit 130g is attached.

[0087] The positive electrode 131g-1 and the negative electrode 131g-2 can be changed by controlling the switch unit. This allows the position of the acupuncture point to which the electrical stimulation is provided to be adjusted depending on the selected positions of the positive electrode 131g-1 and the negative electrode 131g-2.

[0088] 14, the electrodes 131h are arranged in a row in the electrical stimulation unit 130h. At this time, a positive electrode 131h-1 and a negative electrode 131h-2 are applied to each of two selected electrodes of the electrodes 131h, so that electrical stimulation can be provided to the acupuncture point site to which the electrical stimulation unit 130h is attached.

[0089] The positive electrode 131h-1 and the negative electrode 131h-2 can be changed by controlling the switch unit, so that the position of the acupuncture point to which the electrical stimulation is applied can be adjusted depending on the selected positions of the positive electrode 131h-1 and the negative electrode 131h-2.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 15, in electrical stimulation unit 130i, electrodes 131i are arranged inside a virtual diamond. Specifically, five electrodes 131i may be arranged on each of the horizontal and vertical diagonals of the virtual diamond. In this case, a positive electrode 131i-1 and a negative electrode 131i-2 are applied to each of two selected electrodes of electrodes 131i, and electrical stimulation can be provided to the acupuncture point site to which electrical stimulation unit 130i is attached.

[0091] The positive electrode 131i-1 and the negative electrode 131i-2 can be changed by controlling the switch unit, so that the position of the acupuncture point to which the electrical stimulation is applied can be adjusted according to the selected positions of the positive electrode 131i-1 and the negative electrode 131i-2.

[0092] In the above-mentioned electrode arrangement, the distance between the two selected electrodes to which the positive and negative electrodes are applied is preferably 5 mm to 30 mm. If the distance between the positive and negative electrodes is too close, the two electrodes may be recognized as one electrode, and if the distance between the positive and negative electrodes is too far, the difference between the impedance between the two electrodes and the impedance of the tissue outside the electrodes becomes small, resulting in a problem that a stimulation signal cannot be applied to the gap between the two electrodes.

[0093] The electrical stimulation unit 130 of the present invention provides electrical stimulation to an acupuncture point site, and an electrode to which a positive electrode is applied and an electrode to which a negative electrode is applied are arranged in one electrical stimulation unit, and the positions of the positive electrode and negative electrode to which power is applied can be selectively determined via a switch unit.

[0094] In this case, the first control unit 120 can determine the frequency, intensity, number of times and intensity of the stimulation signal to be applied to the positive electrode and the negative electrode, and the positions of the positive electrode and the negative electrode can be determined according to the symptoms and disease of the subject.

[0095] In contrast, conventional electrical stimulation devices provide electrical stimulation to the skin, and are characterized by the fact that an electrical stimulation device to which a positive electrode is applied and an electrical stimulation device to which a negative electrode is applied are constructed separately, and the distance between the positive and negative electrodes must be set to 100 mm or more.

[0096] The first biosignal measuring unit 140 measures a biosignal of a subject. The biosignal includes EEG, EMG, EOG, heart rate, body temperature, etc. of the subject. The measured biosignal is collected by the first control unit 120.

[0097] The first biological signal measuring unit 140 is provided in the acupuncture point stimulation device 100 and measures biological signals from the skin at the position where the acupuncture point stimulation device 100 is attached. For example, if the acupuncture point stimulation device is attached to the wrist, the heart rate, body temperature, etc. can be measured from the wrist. The temperature sensor unit 150 measures the skin temperature at the acupuncture point of the target body. The measured skin temperature is collected by the first control unit 120.

[0098] 2, the heating unit 160 applies heat to the target body to increase the deep temperature of the acupuncture point site. At this time, the heating unit 160 is supplied with power from the power supply unit 110. The heating unit 160 may be composed of an induction coil or an LED.

[0099] First, when the heating unit 160 is configured as an induction coil, the induction coil is placed parallel to the skin surface of the acupuncture point site while being spaced apart from the electrode 131a, and generates eddy currents deep inside the acupuncture point site of the target body to heat it. Next, when the heating unit 160 is configured with an LED, the LED is placed between the electrodes 131a and irradiates light energy to the deep part of the acupuncture point site of the target body to heat it. Hereinafter, a control method of first control unit 120 will be described with reference to the arrangement of electrodes 131i of electrical stimulation unit 130i shown in FIG.

[0100] Control method 1) The first control unit 120 applies a stimulation signal to an electrode pair consisting of two electrodes selected from the electrodes 131i, that is, a positive electrode 131i-1 and a negative electrode 131i-2.

[0101] Control method 2) The first control unit 120 alternately applies stimulation signals to multiple electrode pairs. Here, the electrode pair refers to a positive electrode and a negative electrode determined by the selection of the switch unit. At this time, the positions of the positive electrode and the negative electrode are variable, and various electrode pairs can be configured.

[0102] This allows electrical stimulation unit 130i to stimulate the acupuncture point and the area around the acupuncture point. Even if the user cannot accurately align the center of electrical stimulation unit 130i with the position of the acupuncture point, electrical stimulation unit 130i can stimulate the acupuncture point.

[0103] Control method 3) The first control unit 120 collects the measured vital signs from the first vital sign measuring unit 140 and calculates a vital sign level. The first control unit 120 compares the calculated vital sign level with a preset target vital sign level and generates an appropriate stimulation signal.

[0104] For example, it is assumed that the higher the biometric level, the more stable the state of the subject and the higher the biometric level when stimulating the acupuncture point where the electrical stimulation unit is located. If the calculated biometric level is lower than the target biometric level, the first control unit 120 generates a stimulation signal for raising the biometric level and applies it to the electrical stimulation unit 130i, and if the calculated biometric level is equal to or higher than the target biometric level, it stops supplying the stimulation signal to the electrical stimulation unit 130i.

[0105] Control method 4) The first control unit 120 alternately applies stimulation signals to a plurality of electrode pairs, collects the measured biosignals from the first biosignal measuring unit 140, and calculates the biolevel of each electrode pair. The first control unit 120 sets an electrode pair having a relatively superior biolevel among the biolevels as a reference electrode pair, and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0106] The biolevel is calculated as a superior biolevel when stimulation is applied to a position close to the acupuncture point. In other words, the reference electrode pair stimulates a position closest to the acupuncture point compared to other electrode pairs. The first control unit 120 can accurately stimulate the acupuncture point site by applying a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair, thereby improving the acupuncture point stimulation effect.

[0107] Control method 5) The first control unit 120 measures the biopotential of each electrode 131i and calculates the biopotential similarity of each electrode 131i from the measured biopotential. The first control unit 120 sets an electrode pair having a relatively high calculated biopotential similarity as a reference electrode pair and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair. The biopotential similarity is calculated to be higher at a location closer to the acupuncture point, i.e., the reference electrode pair can provide stimulation to a location closer to the acupuncture point than the other electrode pairs.

[0108] 16, it can be predicted that the acupuncture point is located between electrode A, which has the highest bioelectric potential similarity, and electrode B, which has the second highest bioelectric potential similarity. Therefore, the first control unit 120 sets electrodes A and B as a reference electrode pair and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair. This makes it possible to accurately stimulate the acupuncture point site and improve the acupuncture point stimulation effect. As a concrete example, please refer to the experimental data comparing the electrical potential difference around the Zusanli point.

[0109] The subjects were five healthy men in their 20s or 30s who had not undergone surgery within the past year, had not taken any medicine within the past month, and had no diseases or allergies to metals. As shown in Figure 7, the Zusanli point C is located on the outside of the knee.

[0110] The acupuncture point stimulation device used was a Bioscan (manufactured by TASFO, Korea) and a gold electrode (manufactured by KIOM, Korea), which was placed at the Zusanli point A.

[0111] The electrodes are arranged radially around the Zusanli point ST36 as shown in FIG. 15, and are generally arranged inside an imaginary diamond. In this state, the bioelectric potential is measured for 30 minutes.

[0112] The first control unit calculates the biopotential similarity of each electrode from the measured biopotential. Equation (1) for calculating each biopotential similarity is as follows.

[0113]

number

[0114] The biopotential similarity of each electrode calculated by the above formula (1) is as shown in Fig. 16, and the closer the biopotential similarity is to 1, the higher the conductivity with the surrounding electrodes. From this, the first control unit determines that an acupoint exists between electrode A (0.94) and electrode B (0.84) which have a high biopotential similarity, sets electrode A and electrode B as a reference electrode pair, and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0115] This allows stimulation signals to be provided accurately to the acupuncture points, improving the acupuncture point stimulation effect.

[0116] Control method 6) The first control unit 120 controls the supply of the stimulation signal to be stopped when the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches the set temperature. This makes it possible to prevent burns caused by overheating of the skin due to the supply of the stimulation signal.

[0117] Control method 7) When the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor reaches the set temperature, the first control unit 120 controls to cut off the power supply to the heating unit. This prevents burns caused by overheating of the deep acupuncture points caused by power being supplied to the heating unit and the rise in the deep temperature and skin temperature at the acupuncture point.

[0118] As described above, first control unit 120 can control electrical stimulation unit 130 and heating unit 160 according to the physical condition of the subject.

[0119] 1, the acupoint stimulation device according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it further includes a stimulation device communication unit 170 and a user terminal 200. Hereinafter, the components different from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0120] The stimulation device communication unit 170 is provided inside the acupoint stimulation device 100. The stimulation device communication unit 170 is a means for communicating information and signals with the user terminal 200. The stimulation device communication unit 170 transmits the biosignal measured by the first biosignal measurement unit 140 to the user terminal 200 and receives a stimulation signal from the user terminal 200. The received stimulation signal is applied to the electrical stimulation unit 130.

[0121] The user terminal 200 is operable by a user and is a means for communicating with the acupoint stimulation device 100, and includes a terminal communication unit 210, a second control unit 220, an alarm unit 230 and a storage unit 240 as shown in FIG.

[0122] The terminal communication unit 210 communicates with the stimulation device communication unit 170 in a wired or wireless manner. The terminal communication unit 210 receives a biological signal from the stimulation device communication unit 170 and transmits a stimulation signal to the stimulation device communication unit 170.

[0123] The second control unit 220 generates a stimulation signal in response to the biological signal received from the terminal communication unit 210. The second control unit 220 also generates an alarm unit activation signal that controls whether or not the alarm unit 230 is activated. The second control unit 220, together with the first control unit 120, is included in the control unit.

[0124] The alarm unit 230 issues an alarm according to an alarm time set by the user. The alarm unit 230 can also issue an alarm according to an alarm unit activation signal generated from the second control unit 220. The provided alarm may be a sensory stimulus such as a sound stimulus, a brightness stimulus, or a tactile stimulus.

[0125] The storage unit 240 stores data such as the biological signal received from the device communication unit 210, the stimulation signal and the alarm unit activation signal generated by the second control unit 220. Thus, the storage unit 240 can store the past history of the subject. In this case, the second control unit 220 can generate the stimulation signal and the alarm unit activation signal by referring to the past history of the subject stored in the storage unit 240 when the subject reuses the acupoint stimulation device.

[0126] Specifically, the biosignal measured by the first biosignal measuring unit 140 of the acupoint stimulation device 100 and the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit 150 are transmitted to the second control unit 220 of the user terminal 200 via the stimulation device communication unit 170. The second control unit 220 generates a stimulation signal, a heating unit activation signal, an alarm unit activation signal, etc. by referring to the transmitted signals. The stimulation signal is applied to the electrical stimulation unit 130 of the acupoint stimulation device 100 via the terminal communication unit 210. The heating unit activation signal is applied to the heating unit 160 of the acupoint stimulation device 100 via the terminal communication unit 210. The alarm unit activation signal is applied to the alarm unit 230 of the user terminal 200.

[0127] Hereinafter, a control method of second control unit 220 will be described with reference to the arrangement of electrodes 131i of electrical stimulation unit 130i shown in FIG.

[0128] Control method 1) The second control unit 220 applies a stimulation signal to an electrode pair consisting of two electrodes selected from the electrodes 131i, that is, a positive electrode 131i-1 and a negative electrode 131i-2.

[0129] Control method 2) The second control unit 220 alternately applies stimulation signals to multiple electrode pairs. Here, the electrode pair refers to a positive electrode and a negative electrode determined by the selection of the switch unit. At this time, the positions of the positive electrode and the negative electrode are variable, and various electrode pairs can be configured.

[0130] This allows electrical stimulation unit 130i to stimulate the acupuncture point and the area around the acupuncture point. Even if the user cannot accurately align the center of electrical stimulation unit 130i with the position of the acupuncture point, electrical stimulation unit 130i can stimulate the acupuncture point.

[0131] Control method 3) The second control unit 220 collects the measured vital signs from the first vital sign measurement unit 140 and calculates a vital sign level. The second control unit 220 compares the calculated vital sign level with a preset target vital sign level and generates an appropriate stimulation signal.

[0132] For example, it is assumed that the higher the biolevel, the more stable the state of the subject and the higher the biolevel when stimulating the acupuncture point where the electrical stimulation unit is located. If the calculated biolevel is lower than the target biolevel, the second control unit 220 generates a stimulation signal for raising the biolevel and applies it to the electrical stimulation unit 130i, and if the calculated biolevel is equal to or higher than the target biolevel, it stops supplying the stimulation signal to the electrical stimulation unit 130i.

[0133] Control method 4) The second control unit 220 applies stimulation signals alternately to a plurality of electrode pairs, collects the biosignals measured by the first biosignal measurement unit 140, and calculates the biolevel of each electrode pair. The second control unit 220 sets an electrode pair having a relatively superior biolevel among the biolevels as a reference electrode pair, and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0134] The biolevel is calculated as the biolevel when stimulation is applied to a position close to the acupuncture point. In other words, the reference electrode pair stimulates a position closest to the acupuncture point compared to other electrode pairs. The second control unit 220 can accurately stimulate the acupuncture point site by applying a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair, thereby improving the acupuncture point stimulation effect.

[0135] Control method 5) The second control unit 220 measures the biopotential of each electrode 131i and calculates the biopotential similarity of each electrode 131i from the measured biopotential. The second control unit 220 sets an electrode pair having a relatively high calculated biopotential similarity as a reference electrode pair and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0136] The biopotential similarity is calculated to be higher at a position closer to an acupuncture point. That is, the reference electrode pair applies stimulation to a position closest to the acupuncture point compared to the other electrode pairs.

[0137] 16, it can be predicted that the acupuncture point is located between electrode A, which has the highest bioelectric potential similarity, and electrode B, which has the second highest bioelectric potential similarity. Therefore, the second control unit 220 sets electrode A and electrode B as a reference electrode pair and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair. This makes it possible to accurately stimulate the acupuncture point site and improve the acupuncture point stimulation effect.

[0138] Control method 6) The second control unit 220 controls the supply of the stimulation signal to be stopped when the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches the set temperature. This makes it possible to prevent burns caused by overheating of the skin due to the supply of the stimulation signal.

[0139] Control method 7) When the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor reaches the set temperature, the second control unit 220 controls to cut off the power supply to the heating unit. This prevents burns caused by overheating of the deep acupuncture points caused by power being supplied to the heating unit and an increase in the deep temperature and skin temperature at the acupuncture point.

[0140] As described above, second control unit 220 can control electrical stimulation unit 130 and heating unit 160 according to the physical condition of the subject.

[0141] In the acupoint stimulation device according to the second embodiment, the control unit includes a first control unit 120 and a second control unit 220, and the first control unit 120 may be selectively provided.

[0142] When the acupoint stimulation device according to the second embodiment includes a first control unit 120 and a second control unit 220, the second control unit 220 can process part of the control method of the second control unit 220, and the first control unit 120 can process the remaining part.

[0143] When the acupoint stimulation device according to the second embodiment does not include the first control unit 120, the second control unit 220 processes all the above-mentioned control methods of the second control unit 220.

[0144] Meanwhile, the user terminal 200 can display collected biological information such as biological signals and skin temperature to the user. Also, the user terminal 200 can directly receive user input information for generating a stimulation signal.

[0145] The acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that it further includes a biological information collector 300, as shown in Fig. 1. The different components from the second embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0146] The biological information collector 300 is provided apart from the acupoint stimulation device 100 and includes a second biological signal measuring unit 310 and a collector communication unit 320.

[0147] The second biosignal measurement unit 310 measures the biosignal of the subject from a position separated from the acupoint stimulation device 100. For example, when the acupoint stimulation device 100 is worn on the wrist and the bioinformation collector 300 is worn on the forehead, the first biosignal measurement unit 140 located on the wrist measures the pulse rate, and the second biosignal measurement unit 310 located on the forehead measures the electroencephalogram (EGG). At this time, the acupoint stimulation device 100 stimulates the wrist. The second biosignal measurement unit 310 is included in the biosignal measurement unit together with the first biosignal measurement unit 140.

[0148] The acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment can be optionally provided with a first biological signal measuring unit 140 depending on the position where the biological signal is measured, the position where the acupoint stimulation device 100 is attached, and the position where the biological information collector 300 is attached.

[0149] When the acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment includes the first biological signal measuring unit 140, it can measure biological signals from the body part to which stimulation is applied. For example, when the acupoint stimulation device 100 is worn on the wrist, the first biological signal measuring unit 140 measures the pulse rate and body temperature from the wrist, and the electrical stimulation unit 130 applies stimulation to the wrist.

[0150] If the acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment does not include the first biological signal measurement unit, the biological signal can be measured from a body part located away from the body part to which the stimulation is applied. For example, if the acupoint stimulation device 100 is worn on the wrist and the biological information collector 300 is worn on the forehead, the second biological signal measurement unit 310 measures brain waves from the forehead and the electrical stimulation unit 130 applies stimulation to the wrist.

[0151] The collector communication unit 320 communicates with the terminal communication unit 210 in a wired or wireless manner. The collector communication unit 320 transmits the measured biological signal from the second biological signal measurement unit 310 to the terminal communication unit 210 of the user terminal 200.

[0152] The terminal communication unit 210 communicates with the stimulator communication unit 170 and the collector communication unit 320 . Hereinafter, a control method of second control unit 220 will be described with reference to the arrangement of electrodes 131i of electrical stimulation unit 130i shown in FIG.

[0153] Control method 1) The second control unit 220 applies a stimulation signal to an electrode pair consisting of two electrodes selected from the electrodes 131i, that is, a positive electrode 131i-1 and a negative electrode 131i-2.

[0154] Control method 2) The second control unit 220 applies stimulation signals alternately to multiple electrode pairs. Here, "electrode pair" means a positive electrode and a negative electrode determined by the selection of the switch unit. At this time, the positions of the positive electrode and the negative electrode are variable, and various electrode pairs can be configured.

[0155] This allows electrical stimulation unit 130i to stimulate the acupuncture point and the area around the acupuncture point. Even if the user cannot accurately align the center of electrical stimulation unit 130i with the position of the acupuncture point, electrical stimulation unit 130i can stimulate the acupuncture point.

[0156] Control method 3) The second control unit 220 collects the biosignals measured by at least one of the first biosignal measurement unit 140 and the second biosignal measurement unit 310, and calculates the biolevel. The second control unit 220 compares the calculated biolevel with a target biolevel set in advance, and generates an appropriate stimulation signal.

[0157] For example, it is assumed that the higher the biolevel, the more stable the state of the subject and the higher the biolevel when stimulating the acupuncture point where the electrical stimulation unit is located. If the calculated biolevel is lower than the target biolevel, the second control unit 220 generates a stimulation signal for raising the biolevel and applies it to the electrical stimulation unit 130i, and if the calculated biolevel is equal to or higher than the target biolevel, the supply of the stimulation signal to the electrical stimulation unit 130i is stopped.

[0158] Control method 4) The second control unit 220 applies stimulation signals alternately to a plurality of electrode pairs, collects biosignals measured from at least one of the first biosignal measurement unit 140 and the second biosignal measurement unit 310, and calculates the biolevel of each electrode pair. The second control unit 220 sets an electrode pair having a relatively superior biolevel among the biolevels as a reference electrode pair, and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair.

[0159] The biolevel is calculated as an excellent biolevel when stimulation is applied to a position close to the acupuncture point. In other words, the reference electrode pair stimulates a position closest to the acupuncture point compared to other electrode pairs. The second control unit 220 can accurately stimulate the acupuncture point site by applying a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair, thereby improving the acupuncture point stimulation effect.

[0160] Control method 5) The second control unit 220 measures the biopotential of each electrode 131i and calculates the biopotential similarity of each electrode 131i from the measured biopotential. The second control unit 220 sets an electrode pair having a relatively high calculated biopotential similarity as a reference electrode pair and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair. The biopotential similarity is calculated to be higher at a position closer to the acupuncture point, i.e., the reference electrode pair can provide stimulation to a position closest to the acupuncture point compared to other electrode pairs.

[0161] 16, it can be predicted that the acupuncture point is located between electrode A, which has the highest bioelectric potential similarity, and electrode B, which has the second highest bioelectric potential similarity. Therefore, the second control unit 220 sets electrode A and electrode B as a reference electrode pair and applies a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair. This makes it possible to accurately stimulate the acupuncture point site and improve the acupuncture point stimulation effect.

[0162] Control method 6) The second control unit 220 controls the supply of the stimulation signal to be stopped when the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches the set temperature. This makes it possible to prevent burns caused by overheating of the skin due to the supply of the stimulation signal.

[0163] Control method 7) The second control unit 220 controls to cut off the power supplied to the heating unit when the skin temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches the set temperature. This prevents burns caused by overheating of the deep acupuncture points caused by power being supplied to the heating unit and the rise in the deep temperature and skin temperature at the acupuncture point site.

[0164] As described above, second control unit 220 can control electrical stimulation unit 130 and heating unit 160 according to the physical condition of the subject.

[0165] In the acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment, the control unit includes a first control unit 120 and a second control unit 220, and the first control unit 120 and the second control unit 220 can be selectively provided.

[0166] When the acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment includes a first control unit 120 and a second control unit 220, part of the control method of the second control unit 220 described above can be processed by the second control unit 220, and the first control unit 120 can process the remaining part.

[0167] When the acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment includes only the first control unit 120, all of the control methods of the second control unit 220 described above are processed by the first control unit 120.

[0168] When the acupoint stimulation device according to the third embodiment includes only the second control unit 220, all of the above-mentioned control methods of the second control unit 220 are processed by the second control unit 220.

[0169] Two types of acupoint stimulating methods using the acupoint stimulating device of the present invention will be described below. The acupoint stimulating methods of the present invention can be performed using the acupoint stimulating device of the first to third embodiments described above.

[0170] The first acupoint stimulation method, as shown in FIG. 18, includes the following steps.

[0171] In the acupuncture point stimulation device placement step (S11), an acupuncture point stimulation device is placed at an acupuncture point site to be stimulated on a target body. Specifically, the acupuncture point stimulation device is placed at a site that will become an acupuncture point on the target body.

[0172] In the stimulation signal alternate application step (S12), a stimulation signal is alternately applied to each electrode pair consisting of two selected electrodes from among the electrodes.

[0173] In the vital sign level calculation step (S13), each vital sign level corresponding to each electrode pair is calculated from the vital sign signal measured along each electrode pair to which the stimulation signal is applied.

[0174] In the reference electrode pair setting step (S14), an electrode pair having a relatively superior vital level among the calculated vital levels is set as a reference electrode pair.

[0175] In the step of applying a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair (S15), a stimulation signal is applied to the reference electrode pair. The second acupoint stimulation method, as shown in FIG. 19, includes the following steps.

[0176] In the acupuncture point stimulation device placement step (S21), an acupuncture point stimulation device is placed at an acupuncture point site to be stimulated on a target body. Specifically, the acupuncture point stimulation device is placed at a site that will become an acupuncture point on the target body.

[0177] In the biopotential measuring step (S22), the biopotential of each electrode provided in the acupoint stimulation device is measured.

[0178] In the biopotential similarity calculation step (S23), the biopotential similarity of each electrode is calculated from the measured biopotential.

[0179] In the reference electrode pair setting step (S24), an electrode pair consisting of two electrodes having a relatively high calculated degree of biopotential similarity is set as a reference electrode pair.

[0180] In the step of applying a stimulation signal to the reference electrode pair (S25), a stimulation signal is applied to the reference electrode pair.

[0181] Hereinafter, a sleep management device using the acupuncture point stimulation device of the present invention will be specifically described. The sleep management device of the present invention shares the control method of the acupuncture point stimulation device described above and further includes a control method for managing sleep. For convenience of explanation, the first control unit 120 and the second control unit 220 are collectively referred to as a control unit, and the first biosignal measurement unit 140 and the second biosignal measurement unit 310 are collectively referred to as a biosignal measurement unit.

[0182] The control unit generates a stimulation signal for inducing the subject to a desired sleep stage from the biosignal collected from the biosignal measurement unit. Specifically, the control unit determines the sleep stage of the subject from the biosignal, and controls whether or not to apply the stimulation signal to the electrodes, the stimulation frequency, the stimulation intensity, the number of stimulations, etc., according to the determined sleep stage. The control unit can apply the stimulation signal to the electrodes placed at the acupuncture points that induce the subject to a desired sleep stage. Various sleep management control methods of the control unit according to sleep stages will be described below.

[0183] For convenience of explanation, the sleep stages of a subject are divided into an awake stage, a light sleep stage, and a deep sleep stage, where the awake stage is a state in which the subject is awake, the light sleep stage is a sleep state in which the subject is sleeping or dreaming, and the deep sleep stage is a sleep state deeper than the light sleep stage.

[0184] 1) When the sleep stage of the subject is the wakefulness stage, the control unit applies a stimulation signal to an electrode placed at an acupuncture point site that induces sleep in the subject so as to stimulate the acupuncture point site.

[0185] As a result, a subject who has fallen asleep or who has woken up during sleep can be induced to sleep, which is effective in treating insomnia in the subject.

[0186] 2) When the subject's sleep stage is a light sleep stage, the control unit applies a stimulation signal to an electrode placed at an acupuncture point to stimulate the acupuncture point that induces the subject to a deep sleep stage.

[0187] As a result, a subject who is in a light sleep stage and cannot enter a deep sleep stage can be induced to enter a deep sleep stage.

[0188] 3) The control unit may generate a stimulation signal to prevent the sleep stage of the subject from changing to a deep sleep stage for a predetermined time before the set alarm time. Specifically, the control unit may apply a stimulation signal to the subject to maintain a light sleep stage, or may stop the supply of the stimulation signal to maintain the light sleep stage of the subject. In addition, if the subject is in a deep sleep stage a predetermined time before the set alarm time, the control unit may apply a stimulation signal to the subject to induce the subject to a light sleep stage.

[0189] Generally, if a subject wakes up in a light sleep stage, the subject can wake up comfortably, so by guiding the subject into a light sleep stage before the set alarm time, the subject can be helped to wake up comfortably.

[0190] 4) When the sleep stage reaches an abnormal sleep state, the control unit controls the electrical stimulation unit to induce the subject to a wakefulness stage or activates the alarm unit.

[0191] For example, a stimulation signal may be applied to an acupuncture point to induce the subject into an awakening stage, or an alarm may be activated.

[0192] The abnormal sleep state is a state in which the biosignal is outside a predetermined range from a set reference value. Here, the reference value is the biosignal value when the subject is in a stable state, and an unstable state occurs when the biosignal is outside the predetermined range from the reference value. For example, the abnormal sleep state is an unstable state in which the subject has a nightmare or is upset.

[0193] Specifically, the abnormal sleep state is a state in which the amplitude or pattern of a specific frequency band in the collected biosignal deviates from a predetermined range from a reference value. For example, referring to EEG, when the amplitude of a specific frequency band (alpha wave or delta wave) is abnormally increased from a reference value in a light sleep stage, it can be determined that the abnormal sleep state exists.

[0194] If the subject is in an unstable state, the subject can be awakened from the sleep paralysis into the waking state, escaping nightmares and nightmares.

[0195] 5) If the control unit determines that the subject is in a sleep stage after the alarm time, it applies a stimulation signal to an acupuncture point that induces the subject to a wakeful stage or activates the alarm unit, thereby waking up the subject who has entered a sleep stage again after the alarm and preventing excessive oversleeping.

[0196] The sleep management device can stimulate the Shenmen point, median nerve, etc. to induce the subject into a sleep stage.

[0197] As shown in Fig. 20, Shenmen point D is a depression on the palm side of the hand that runs from the center of the wrist toward the little finger. Shenmen point D governs mood, and stimulating Shenmen point D is effective for neurasthenia, heartache, schizophrenia, heart attack, amnesia, insomnia, etc. For this reason, as shown in Fig. 21, by wearing a sleep management device on the wrist so that the electrical stimulation unit 130 is located at Shenmen point D, it is possible to stimulate Shenmen point D according to the sleep stage, thereby relieving stress and treating insomnia.

[0198] As shown in FIG. 22, the median nerve E is one of the peripheral nerves of the arm that runs from the upper arm through the carpal tunnel to the hand. Stimulating the C fibers in the median nerve E activates the parasympathetic nerves and relieves stress. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 8, if the sleep management device is worn on the wrist so that the electrical stimulation unit 130b is positioned on the median nerve E, the median nerve E can be stimulated according to the sleep stage to relieve the subject's stress and regulate sleep.

[0199] A sleep management method using the sleep management device of the present invention will be described step by step below. First, in the biosignal measuring step, the sleep management device is placed at the intended acupuncture point sites on the subject's body, and the biosignal of the subject is measured by the biosignal measuring unit.

[0200] The sleep stage determining step determines the sleep stage of the subject from the measured biological signal.

[0201] The stimulation signal generating step generates an appropriate stimulation signal according to the determined sleep stage, taking into consideration the presence or absence of application of the stimulation signal, the stimulation frequency, the stimulation intensity, the number of stimulations, and the like.

[0202] The stimulation signal applying step applies the generated stimulation signal to an electrode disposed at the acupuncture point site, thereby stimulating the acupuncture point site of the subject.

[0203] Hereinafter, a blood pressure regulating device using the acupuncture point stimulating device of the present invention will be specifically described. The blood pressure regulating device of the present invention shares the control method of the acupuncture point stimulating device described above, and further includes a control method for blood pressure regulation. For convenience of explanation, the first control unit 120 and the second control unit 220 are collectively referred to as a control unit, and the first biosignal measuring unit 140 and the second biosignal measuring unit 310 are collectively referred to as a biosignal measuring unit.

[0204] The control unit generates a stimulation signal for adjusting the blood pressure of the subject in response to the biosignal collected from the biosignal measurement unit. Specifically, the control unit calculates a stress index or an autonomic nervous system state index of the subject from the biosignal, and controls whether or not to apply a stimulation signal to the electrodes, a stimulation frequency, a stimulation intensity, and a number of stimulations, etc., in response to the calculated stress index or autonomic nervous system state index. The control unit can apply a stimulation signal to an electrode disposed at an acupuncture point site that induces a decrease in blood pressure or stress relief of the subject.

[0205] The biosignal measuring unit measures a biosignal of a subject and measures a biosignal for blood pressure regulation.

[0206] It is preferable that the biosignals measured by the biosignal measuring unit include at least one of blood pressure, RR interval, electroencephalogram (EEG), heart rate, electrocardiogram (ECG), PPG (Photoplethysmogram), SpO2 (Peripheral Capilary Oxygen Saturation), EOG, and body temperature. Hereinafter, a control method of the control unit for regulating blood pressure using a vital signal measured by the vital signal measurement unit will be described.

[0207] 1) Blood pressure regulation by blood pressure measurement The control unit measures blood pressure from the biosignal measurement unit. If the measured blood pressure is outside a predetermined range from a set reference value, the control unit applies a stimulation signal to the electrodes that stimulate the acupuncture points to adjust the blood pressure of the subject. If the measured blood pressure returns to within the predetermined range from the set reference value, the control unit stops supplying the stimulation signal.

[0208] 2) Blood pressure regulation by estimated blood pressure using PPG (photoplethysmogram)

[0209] PPG is a pulse wave measured using light. Table 1 below is a graph showing the amplitude of the PPG pulse wave over time. In Table 1 below, S amp is the peak contraction amplitude, R amp is the reflection peak amplitude, N amp is the notch peak amplitude, S time is the peak contraction time, R time is the reflection peak time, N time is the notch amplitude time, P time represents the total time, and A s is N time represents the anterior systolic region, and A d is N time Represents the posterior dilator region.

[0210] [Table 1] Equation (2) for calculating blood pressure using parameters collected from the PPG pulse wave is as follows:

[0211]

number

[0212] (In the formula, SBP (Systolic blood pressure) represents systolic blood pressure, and DBP (Diastolic blood pressure) represents diastolic blood pressure.)

[0213] The blood pressure can be estimated by substituting the parameter values ​​collected from the PPG pulse wave into the above formula (2) to calculate SBP (systolic blood pressure) and DBP (diastolic blood pressure) values, and SBP and DBP are defined as blood pressure estimation indices that can estimate the subject's blood pressure.

[0214] Therefore, the control unit obtains the S from the PPG (photoelectric pulse wave) measured by the biosignal measurement unit. amp (peak contraction amplitude), N amp (notch peak amplitude), A s (systolic area), A d Parameters including the dilator region are extracted. The extracted parameters are substituted into equation (2) to calculate the blood pressure estimation indexes SBP (systolic blood pressure) and DBP (diastolic blood pressure). If the calculated blood pressure estimation index is outside a predetermined range from the set reference value, a stimulation signal is applied to an electrode that stimulates an acupuncture point that regulates the blood pressure of the subject. When the blood pressure estimation index reaches a predetermined range from the set reference value, the supply of the stimulation signal is stopped.

[0215] 3) Blood pressure regulation by ECG (electrocardiogram) and PPG-based estimated blood pressure When the heart contracts, the blood ejected from the heart is sent to the peripheral blood vessels through the aorta. Table 2 below is a graph showing the amplitude of the ECG and PPG over time. Referring to Table 2 below, when the heart contracts, the ECG has an amplitude of the R point, and the PPG has an amplitude of the P point. The PTT signal indicates the time until the blood ejected from the heart reaches the peripheral blood vessels. In other words, it is not the time until the blood volume in the peripheral blood vessels is maximized, but the time until the blood volume flows into the heart. Therefore, the PTT is defined as the time from the R point of the ECG to the point where the PPG takes the midpoint between the S point and the P point.

[0216] [Table 2] Since the PTT has the characteristic that the higher the blood pressure, the lower the PTT is, the blood pressure is calculated using the following formula (3).

[0217]

number

[0218] Blood pressure can be estimated by substituting the PTT value into the formula (3) to calculate SBP and DBP values ​​to calculate blood pressure, and SBP and DBP are defined as blood pressure estimation indexes that can be used to estimate the blood pressure of a subject.

[0219] Therefore, the control unit extracts the PTT, which is the distance between the ECG R point and the intermediate point between the PPG S point and P point. The extracted PTT is substituted into the above formula (3) to calculate the estimated blood pressure indices SBP and DBP. If the calculated estimated blood pressure indices are outside a predetermined range from the set reference value, a stimulation signal is applied to the electrodes that stimulate the acupuncture points that regulate the blood pressure of the subject. When the estimated blood pressure indices reach a predetermined range from the set reference value, the supply of the stimulation signal is stopped.

[0220] 4) Blood pressure regulation using a blood pressure variability prediction index predicted using stress When stress increases, the adrenal glands increase secretion of cortisol, a stress-related hormone. Increased cortisol secretion causes blood pressure to rise. At this time, the amount of cortisol secreted can be predicted using the RR interval, so by linking the RR interval with the stress index, it is possible to predict increased stress from the RR interval value. Since increased stress is a factor in increased blood pressure, it can be predicted that blood pressure will rise if the stress index rises.

[0221] The control unit calculates a stress index, which is a blood pressure fluctuation prediction index that can predict blood pressure fluctuations, by linking the R-R interval value measured by the biosignal measurement unit with stress. If the calculated blood pressure fluctuation prediction index is outside a predetermined range from a set reference value, a stimulation signal is applied to an electrode that stimulates an acupuncture point site that regulates the subject's blood pressure. When the blood pressure fluctuation prediction index reaches a predetermined range from the set reference value, the supply of the stimulation signal is stopped.

[0222] In addition, if a sudden stressful situation is induced due to internal or external factors while the vital sign measuring unit is measuring the R-R value in real time, the control unit monitors the sudden blood pressure fluctuation, and if a fluctuation occurs in the subject's blood pressure, stimulates the acupoint site that controls the subject's blood pressure to regulate the subject's blood pressure.

[0223] 5) Blood pressure regulation using blood pressure variability prediction indexes predicted using electroencephalogram (EG) and heart rate Regarding the correlation between electroencephalogram (EGG) and the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, theta waves (6Hz-8Hz) in the EGG are related to parasympathetic nervous activity, while alpha waves (8Hz-10Hz) are related to sympathetic nervous activity.

[0224] Regarding the correlation between heart rate and sympathetic / parasympathetic nervous activity, HF (high frequency) of heart rate variability (HRV) reflects parasympathetic nervous activity, while LF (low frequency) reflects sympathetic nervous activity.

[0225] Therefore, an increase in theta waves in the EGG correlates with an increase in HF in HRV, and an increase in alpha waves in the EGG correlates with a decrease in LF in HRV.

[0226] Therefore, by measuring EGG and HRV, it is possible to know the reaction of the autonomic nervous system, including the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves. It can be assumed that activation of the parasympathetic nerves of the autonomic nervous system affects the heart rate, causing an increase in blood pressure. This makes it possible to predict the activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves from EGG and heart rate, and from this, it is possible to calculate the stress index and autonomic nervous system state index and predict an increase in blood pressure.

[0227] The control unit extracts the increase / decrease of alpha waves and theta waves from the EGG measured by the biosignal measurement unit, and extracts the increase / decrease of HF reflecting parasympathetic nerve activity and LF reflecting sympathetic nerve activity from the HRV of the heart rate measured by the biosignal measurement unit. From the extracted increase / decrease of alpha waves and theta waves and the increase / decrease of HF and LF, a stress index or an autonomic nervous system state index, which is a blood pressure fluctuation prediction index capable of predicting blood pressure fluctuation, is calculated. If the calculated blood pressure fluctuation prediction index is outside a predetermined range from a set reference value, a stimulation signal is applied to an electrode that stimulates an acupuncture point site that regulates the blood pressure of the subject. When the blood pressure fluctuation prediction index reaches a predetermined range from a set reference value, the supply of the stimulation signal is stopped.

[0228] A blood pressure estimation index is an index that can estimate blood pressure from biological signals other than blood pressure itself, and includes SBP (systolic blood pressure) and DBP (diastolic blood pressure), etc., while a blood pressure fluctuation prediction index is an index that can predict blood pressure fluctuations from signals other than blood pressure itself, and includes the stress index and autonomic nervous system state index.

[0229] In addition to the blood pressure measurement method, blood pressure estimation method, and blood pressure fluctuation prediction method described above, blood pressure can also be regulated using methods for estimating blood pressure and predicting blood pressure fluctuations from various biological signals.

[0230] In addition, in the description of the control method, the "reference value" is the intermediate value of the normal blood pressure range of a subject with normal blood pressure, and if it is outside a predetermined range from the reference value, it means that the subject is in a high blood pressure or low blood pressure state. In this case, the abnormal state is a state in which the subject is under high stress or the subject's blood pressure exceeds the normal range, that is, a high blood pressure state or a low blood pressure state.

[0231] For example, in the case of a hypertensive patient, if the measured blood pressure exceeds a predetermined range from the set reference value, it means that the blood pressure has become high, and the control unit stimulates the acupuncture points that lower the blood pressure or relieve stress to lower the blood pressure. Also, if the blood pressure estimated index of the hypertensive patient exceeds a predetermined range from the set reference value, it is predicted that the blood pressure will become high. Therefore, the control unit can stimulate the acupuncture points that lower the blood pressure or relieve stress to prevent the blood pressure from becoming high.

[0232] The Shenmen point or median nerve can be stimulated to lower blood pressure and relieve stress.

[0233] As shown in Fig. 20, Shenmen point D is a depression on the palm side of the hand that runs from the center of the wrist toward the little finger. Shenmen point D governs mood, and stimulating Shenmen point D is effective for neurasthenia, heartache, schizophrenia, heart attack, amnesia, insomnia, etc. For this reason, as shown in Fig. 21, if a blood pressure regulating device is worn on the wrist so that the electrical stimulation unit 130 is located at Shenmen point D, blood pressure can be regulated by stimulating Shenmen point B in accordance with the measured blood pressure or blood pressure estimated index.

[0234] As shown in FIG. 22, the median nerve E is one of the peripheral nerves of the arm that runs from the upper arm through the carpal tunnel to the hand. Stimulating the C fibers in the median nerve E activates the parasympathetic nerves and relieves stress. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 8, if the blood pressure regulating device is worn on the wrist so that the electrical stimulation unit 130b is positioned on the median nerve E, the blood pressure can be regulated by stimulating the median nerve E that passes through the wrist in accordance with the measured blood pressure or blood pressure estimated index.

[0235] In this way, by measuring the blood pressure of a subject or calculating at least one of the blood pressure estimation indices, i.e., the stress index, the autonomic nervous system index, the systolic blood pressure, and the diastolic blood pressure, from the biological signal of the subject, it is possible to reduce stress and lower the blood pressure of a hypertensive patient. In particular, the blood pressure estimation index can predict a blood pressure rise, and therefore, prevent the rise in blood pressure in advance.

[0236] Three blood pressure regulation methods using the blood pressure regulator of the present invention will be described below in order.

[0237] The first blood pressure regulation method includes the following steps.

[0238] First, in the biosignal measuring step, a blood pressure regulating device is placed at the acupoint site to be stimulated on the subject, i.e., the anticipated acupoint site, and a biosignal including the subject's blood pressure is measured from a biosignal measuring unit.

[0239] In the stimulation signal generating step, a stimulation signal is generated in response to the blood pressure of the subject.

[0240] In the stimulation signal application step, the generated stimulation signal is applied to an electrode that stimulates the acupoint site.

[0241] A predetermined time after application of the stimulation signal, the subject's blood pressure is again measured to determine whether the blood pressure is within a predetermined range from the set reference value. When the blood pressure reaches the range, application of the stimulation signal is stopped, and when the blood pressure is outside the range, application of the stimulation signal can be continued. The second blood pressure regulation method includes the following steps.

[0242] In the biosignal measuring step, a biosignal of the subject is measured by a biosignal measuring unit in a state where the blood pressure regulating device is placed at an acupuncture point site to be stimulated on the subject, i.e., an expected acupuncture point site.

[0243] In the blood pressure estimated index calculation step, a blood pressure estimated index of the subject is calculated from the biological signal.

[0244] In the stimulation signal generating step, a stimulation signal is generated based on a blood pressure estimated index of the subject.

[0245] In the stimulation signal application step, the generated stimulation signal is applied to an electrode that stimulates the acupoint site.

[0246] After a predetermined time from the application of the stimulation signal, the subject's biosignal is measured again, a blood pressure estimation index is calculated, and it is determined whether the blood pressure estimation index is within a predetermined range from a set reference value. When the blood pressure reaches the range, the application of the stimulation signal can be stopped, and when the blood pressure is outside the range, the application of the stimulation signal can be continued.

[0247] The third blood pressure regulation method includes the following steps.

[0248] In the biosignal measuring step, a biosignal of the subject is measured by a biosignal measuring unit in a state where the blood pressure regulating device is placed at an acupuncture point site to be stimulated on the subject, i.e., an expected acupuncture point site.

[0249] In the blood pressure variability prediction index calculation step, a blood pressure variability prediction index of the subject is calculated from the biological signal.

[0250] The stimulation signal generating step generates a stimulation signal based on a blood pressure variability prediction index of the subject.

[0251] The stimulation signal applying step applies the generated stimulation signal to an electrode that stimulates the acupoint site.

[0252] After a predetermined time from the application of the stimulation signal, the subject's biological signal is measured again, a blood pressure fluctuation prediction index is calculated, and it is determined whether the blood pressure fluctuation prediction index is within a predetermined range from a set reference value. When the blood pressure reaches the range, the application of the stimulation signal can be stopped, and when the blood pressure is outside the range, the application of the stimulation signal can be continued.

[0253] Although the specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is clear that the scope of the present invention extends to modifications and equivalents based on the technical ideas described in the claims.

[0254] (Industrial Applicability) The present invention provides an acupuncture point stimulation device used in Chinese medicine, manual therapy, etc., to stimulate acupuncture points, which are important reaction points that appear on the skin and muscles, thereby promoting flow of the pathways and relieving symptoms related to the acupuncture points, and a method for stimulating acupuncture points using the same. [Explanation of symbols]

[0255] 100: Acupoint stimulator 110: Power supply section 120: Control unit 130: Electrical stimulation section 140: First biosignal measuring unit 150: Temperature sensor section 160:Heating section 170: Stimulator communication department 800: Alarm section 900: Preservation Department 200: User terminal 210: Terminal communication unit 220: Second control section 230: Alarm section 240: Preservation Department 300: Biometric information collector 310: Second biosignal measuring unit 320: Collector communication unit

Claims

1. An acupuncture point stimulating device for electrically stimulating an acupuncture point site including an acupuncture point and a peripheral portion of the acupuncture point on a target body, a power supply unit for supplying power; A control unit that generates an electrical stimulation signal to be applied to the skin of the subject; and An electrical stimulation unit that receives power from the power supply unit, and has two or more electrodes that supply the stimulation signal to the acupuncture point site, the electrodes being arranged in an electrically insulated state from each other, and electrically contacts the skin of the subject; The electrical stimulation unit includes three or more electrodes, The control unit applies the stimulation signal to an electrode pair consisting of two selected electrodes from among the electrodes; A temperature sensor unit for measuring the skin temperature at the acupuncture point site; and A heating unit to which power is supplied from the power supply unit in order to increase the temperature of the deep part of the acupuncture point site; The control unit controls the power supply to the heating unit to be cut off when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches a set temperature.

2. The electrical stimulation unit includes: a wiring layer in which wiring is formed to electrically connect the electrodes; an adhesive layer disposed under the wiring layer and having an adhesive capable of being detachably attached to the skin at the acupuncture point; Equipped with The acupoint stimulating device according to claim 1 , wherein the electrodes are exposed on the lower surface of the adhesive layer.

3. The electrical stimulation unit includes: a main body portion that is detachably attached to the subject and has two or more contact terminals that are in electrical contact with the acupuncture points; a mount portion that is coupled to the main body portion and has the electrodes; Including, 2. The acupoint stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrodes are electrically connected to the contact terminals when the main body and the mount are combined.

4. 4. The acupoint stimulation device according to claim 3, wherein the mount portion is fitted to the main body portion.

5. The acupuncture point stimulating device according to claim 3 , wherein the mount portion is aligned and coupled to the main body portion by magnetic force.

6. The acupuncture point stimulating device according to claim 3 , wherein the electrical stimulation unit further comprises a fixing unit for closely fixing the contact terminal to the skin of the acupuncture point.

7. 7. The acupoint stimulating device according to claim 6, wherein the fixing part is in the form of a band or belt made of an elastic material.

8. The acupuncture point stimulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance between the centers of two selected electrodes of the electrodes is 5 mm to 30 mm so that the electrical stimulation unit supplies the stimulation signal to the acupuncture point site.

9. 2. The acupoint stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit applies the stimulation signal alternately to each of the electrode pairs.

10. 2. The acupoint stimulating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls so as to stop supplying the stimulation signal when the temperature measured by the temperature sensor unit reaches a set temperature.

11. The acupuncture point stimulation device according to claim 1, characterized in that the heating unit is an induction coil that is arranged parallel to the skin surface of the acupuncture point site while being spaced apart from the electrodes, and that generates eddy currents in the deep area to heat the skin.

12. 2. The acupoint stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein the heating unit is an LED disposed between the electrodes and configured to irradiate the deep area with light energy.

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