Server, massage chair, and computer program

Abstract

To provide a server that can suppress increase of the price of a massage chair.SOLUTION: A server 30 controls a massage chair, and comprises a processor 31, and a memory 32 storing a massage program 321 executed by the processor. The massage chair includes a communication circuit, the communication circuit is connected with plural drive parts that control an actuator to execute massage operation, the processor executes a massage program to generate control signals given to each of the plural drive parts and transmits the control signals to the communication circuit through radio communication.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a server, a massage chair, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 shows, as an example of the configuration of a massage machine, a configuration having a main control section (controller) that controls the entire massage machine, and a sub-control section (control circuit).

[0003] The main control unit is composed of a control board and the like, and controls each part by executing a program for performing a massage operation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-83103 Summary of the Invention

[0005] As massage machines become more sophisticated, the main control unit is required to have high processing power, which leads to an increase in the price of the main control unit. As a result, the price of the entire massage machine also increases as the price of the main control unit increases. Therefore, in order to prevent the price increase of the massage machine, it is desirable to eliminate or simplify the main control unit (controller).

[0006] According to one embodiment, the server is a server that controls a massage chair and includes a processor and a memory that stores a massage program executed by the processor, the massage chair includes a communication circuit to which are connected a plurality of drive units that cause the actuators to perform massage operations, and the processor is configured to execute the massage program to generate control signals to be given to each of the plurality of drive units and transmit the control signals to the communication circuit via a mobile communication network.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the massage chair comprises a communication circuit and a plurality of drive units connected to the communication circuit for causing actuators to perform massage operations, the communication circuit being configured to receive a control signal from a server via a mobile communication network and to provide a control signal to one of the plurality of drive units designated by data included in the control signal.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the computer program causes a computer to function as a terminal device for a massage chair, the massage chair having a communication circuit and a plurality of drive units connected to the communication circuit that cause actuators to perform massage operations, and the program causes the computer to perform processing including accepting a user operation on the massage chair and transmitting a signal based on the user operation to a server, the signal including data that can identify the massage chair.

[0009] Further details will be described in the following embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a massage machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the massage device of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of the server. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating massage courses and control signals for performing massage actions according to the massage courses. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the tablet. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a method for controlling the massage device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a specific example of an operation screen displayed on a tablet. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 shows a specific example of an operation screen displayed on a tablet. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the flow of operation control in the massage device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the flow of processing in the server. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of wireless power supply between the power supply unit and the massage unit. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of a massage device according to a comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] <1. Overview of the server, massage chair, and computer program>

[0012] (1) The server according to the embodiment is a server that controls a massage chair, The massage chair includes a processor and a memory that stores a massage program executed by the processor, and includes a communication circuit to which are connected a plurality of drive units that cause the actuators to perform massage operations. The processor is configured to execute the massage program to generate control signals to be given to each of the plurality of drive units, and to transmit the control signals to the communication circuit via wireless communication.

[0013] The massage unit is an operating mechanism for performing massage movements on the user's body and is located in various parts of the massage chair. The server generates control signals to input to the drive unit to perform the massage movements and sends them to the massage unit, thereby eliminating or simplifying the main board that was previously required to run a program to perform the massage movements and generate control signals. This reduces the price of the massage chair and makes it smaller and lighter.

[0014] Communication between the server and the massage units is wireless. This allows control signals to be received without the need for a communication line. Wireless communication is, for example, communication using a mobile communication system. Preferably, the mobile communication system is a fifth-generation or later mobile communication system, such as a fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G). In this case, the server is capable of high-speed, large-capacity communication, allowing complex control of multiple massage units and causing the massage chair to perform complex massage movements. Furthermore, the server receives signals indicating sensing results from the massage chairs and uses them for control, allowing flexible massage movements according to the situation. Furthermore, the server can be connected to multiple terminals simultaneously, making it possible to control multiple massage chairs simultaneously.

[0015] (2) Preferably, the control signal includes data that can identify the drive unit that performs the massage operation among the multiple drive units. This allows the received control signal to be input to the drive circuit of the actuator that drives the actuator in the massage chair. This allows the server to control the massage operation.

[0016] (3) Preferably, the massage program is a program that defines a combination of multiple massage actions and the timing of their execution, and transmitting the control signal includes transmitting a control signal to a drive unit that performs the massage action in accordance with the timing of the massage action defined in the massage program. This allows the massage chair to perform the specified massage action at the timing defined in the massage course.

[0017] (4) Preferably, the memory stores the communication circuits of each of the plurality of massage chairs as destinations of the control signal, and the processor executes the massage program for a designated massage chair among the plurality of massage chairs and transmits the control signal to the designated massage chair. This allows a single server to control the plurality of massage chairs.

[0018] (5) Preferably, the server receives instructions for massage operations from the terminal device of the massage chair, and the processor transmits a control signal generated in response to the instructions to the massage chair corresponding to the terminal device among the plurality of massage chairs, thereby allowing the terminal device to be used as an operating device for the massage chair.

[0019] (6) Preferably, the server receives a signal indicating the sensing result from the massage chair during the massage operation, and the processor adjusts and transmits the generated control signal based on the sensing result. This allows the server to control the massage chair to perform flexible massage operations according to the situation.

[0020] (7) Preferably, the massage chair has multiple sensors, and the processor adjusts the control signal for performing the massage operation using the sensing results of sensors among the multiple sensors that are predetermined for each massage operation. This allows the server to adjust the control signal for the massage operation using the sensing results necessary for that massage operation among the sensing results obtained from the massage chair during the massage operation in accordance with the transmitted control signal. This makes it possible for the server to cause the massage chair to perform flexible massage operations according to the situation.

[0021] (8) Preferably, the wireless communication includes wireless communication using a mobile communication network, which allows the server to control multiple massage units in a complex manner, as described above, and allows the massage chair to perform complex massage movements.

[0022] (9) A massage chair according to an embodiment includes a communication circuit and a plurality of drive units connected to the communication circuit for causing actuators to perform massage operations. The communication circuit is configured to receive control signals from a server via wireless communication and provide control signals to drive units, among the plurality of drive units, designated by the data included in the control signals. By receiving control signals for each of the plurality of drive units from the server and providing control signals to the drive units designated by the data included in the control signals, the massage operation is performed according to the control signals from the server. In other words, the massage chair's massage operation is controlled by the server. This eliminates or simplifies the main board required in conventional massage chairs to generate control signals and input them to the drive units to control the massage operation. This reduces wiring and achieves a smaller, lighter chair.

[0023] (10) Preferably, the massage chair further includes one or more sensors, and the communication circuit transmits to the server signals indicating sensing results obtained by the sensors while the massage operation is being performed in accordance with the control signal. This allows the server to adjust the control signal for the massage operation using sensing results necessary for the massage operation among the sensing results obtained from the massage chair during the massage operation in accordance with the transmitted control signal. This allows the server to control the massage chair to perform flexible massage operations according to the situation.

[0024] (11) Preferably, the sensing result includes the result of sensing the actuator performing the massaging operation, so that the server can adjust the massaging operation according to the operating status of the massage chair during the massaging operation.

[0025] (12) Preferably, the sensing results include sensing results obtained from the body of a user seated in the massage chair during the massage operation, thereby enabling the massage operation to be adjusted according to the user's condition during the massage operation.

[0026] (13) Preferably, transmitting a signal indicating the sensing result to the server includes transmitting unique identification information of the massage chair in association with the sensing result. This allows the server to identify the massage chair to be controlled. As a result, it becomes possible to control multiple massage chairs.

[0027] (14) Preferably, the wireless communication includes wireless communication using a mobile communication network. Also, it becomes possible to control a plurality of massage chairs.

[0028] (15) A computer program according to an embodiment is a program that causes a computer to function as a terminal device for a massage chair, the massage chair having a communication circuit and a plurality of drive units connected to the communication circuit that cause actuators to perform massage operations, and the program causes the computer to execute processing including accepting user operations on the massage chair and transmitting a signal based on the user operations to a server, the signal including data that can identify the massage chair.

[0029] This allows the computer to function as an operating device for the massage chairs (9) to (14).

[0030] <2. Examples of a server, a massage chair, and a computer program>

[0031] The concept of direction used in the following description is the same as the concept of direction when viewed from the user seated on the massage device 1 shown in Fig. 1, and other cases will be explained as appropriate. In addition, the definition of the front and back of the body will be explained by referring to the chest side of a standing user as the "front" and the back side as the "back."

[0032] [First embodiment]

[0033] The massage device 1 according to this embodiment is a chair type massage chair that is used by a user while being seated. Referring to Fig. 1, the massage device 1 mainly includes a seat 2 on which the user sits, a backrest 3 on which the user leans and which is provided at the rear of the seat 2 so as to be reclined, a footrest 4 provided at the front of the seat 2 so as to be swingable up and down and which supports the user's lower limbs, a pillow 5 provided on the upper front surface of the backrest 3 to support the user's head and / or neck, armrests 6 on both the left and right sides of the seat 2, and sidewalls 7 on both the left and right sides of the backrest 3. The seat 2, the backrest 3, the footrest 4, the pillow 5, the armrests 6, and the sidewalls 7 function as body support parts that support the user's body.

[0034] A plurality of massage units, which are operating mechanisms for performing massage operations on the user's body, are provided at each of the body support sections 2 to 7. That is, a pump unit 9, which is a massage unit, is provided below the seat section 2. Referring to FIG. 2, the pump unit 9 includes a pump 93 and a drive circuit 91 that controls the operation of the pump 93, and supplies and exhausts air to and from the air massage unit 15. The pump 93 is an example of an actuator that operates the pump unit 9. The drive circuit 91 controls the operation of the pump 93 in accordance with a control signal E1 from the server 30, which will be described later, to control the supply and exhaust of air to and from the air massage unit 15.

[0035] The air massage unit 15 is an operating mechanism that performs a massage action using a plurality of air cells, each including an electromagnetic valve 20A to 20J. The air cells are air bags that expand and contract by supplying and discharging air, and can press against the user by supplying and discharging air.

[0036] Air from the pump unit 9 is supplied to and exhausted from each of the plurality of air cells by opening and closing the solenoid valves 20A to 20J. The solenoid valves 20A to 20J are an example of actuators that cause the air massage unit 15 to perform a massage action. The air massage unit 15 includes drive circuits 51A, 51B, etc. that drive the solenoid valves 20A, 20B, etc., respectively.

[0037] A control signal E1 is input to the drive circuits 51A, 51B, ... from a communication circuit 60, which will be described later. The drive circuits 51A, 51B, ... control the supply and exhaust of the solenoid valves 20A, 20B, ... in accordance with the control signal E1 input from the communication circuit 60.

[0038] The air massage unit 15 may further include a pressure sensor 53. The pressure sensor 53 detects pressure generated by the expansion of the air cells. The pressure generated by the expansion of the air cells corresponds to the massage strength of the air massage unit 15. A signal indicating the sensing result of the pressure sensor 53 is transmitted from the communication circuit 60 to the server 30.

[0039] The air massage unit 15 may perform a massage action using a vibrator instead of or in addition to the air cell. The vibrator can apply vibrations to the user by rotating an eccentric weight. In this case, the actuator for causing the air massage unit 15 to perform the massage action is, for example, a motor that drives the vibrator.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 1, the massage device 1 has a mechanical massage unit 8, which is a massage unit, in the backrest portion 3. The mechanical massage unit 8 is an operating mechanism for performing a massage action, which involves kneading and / or tapping actions, as will be described later. The mechanical massage unit 8 massages the upper body of the user from behind (the back). The mechanical massage unit 8 is a movable unit that can move in the up-down direction indicated by arrow A in FIG. 1. A plurality of mechanical massage units 8 (one in this embodiment) may be provided along the height direction.

[0041] 2, the mechanical massage unit 8 has a massage motor M1 made up of one or more motors. The massage motor M1 is an example of an actuator that performs a massage operation.

[0042] The mechanical massage unit 8 includes a drive circuit 811 that drives the massage motor M1. A control signal E1 from a communication circuit 60 (described later) is input to the drive circuit 811. The drive circuit 811 controls the drive of the massage motor M1 in accordance with the control signal E1 input from the communication circuit 60.

[0043] The mechanical massage unit 8 has a pair of arms (not shown) with treatment elements at both the top and bottom ends as massage members. The massage motor M1 can be driven to perform a kneading action by moving the left and right treatment elements closer to and away from each other, and a tapping action by moving the left and right treatment elements alternately toward and away from the user.

[0044] The mechanical massage unit 8 has an elevation motor M2. The elevation motor M2 is an actuator that performs a massage operation and is an example of an actuator that moves the mechanical massage unit 8 in the direction indicated by arrow A in FIG.

[0045] The mechanical massage unit 8 includes a drive circuit 812 that drives the lift motor M2. A control signal E1 from a communication circuit 60, which will be described later, is input to the drive circuit 812. The drive circuit 812 controls the drive of the lift motor M2 in accordance with the control signal E1 input from the communication circuit 60.

[0046] The mechanical massage unit 8 moves on a guide rail (not shown) driven by an elevator motor M2 using an elevator mechanism (not shown) such as a rack and pinion. The guide rail extends in the height direction on the backrest 3. Therefore, the mechanical massage unit 8 can move upward or downward in the height direction as shown by arrow A in FIG. 1, changing its position relative to the body or providing a rolling massage.

[0047] The mechanical massage unit 8 has a sensor 83 that detects the user's physical information. This sensor 83 can obtain physical information by detecting that the arms have reached a predetermined swing position. Specifically, when the upper treatment element reaches above the shoulder during the process of raising the mechanical massage unit 8 along the user's height, the load acting on the treatment element is released, and the arm swings forward to reach the predetermined swing position. The sensor 83 detects that the arm has reached the predetermined swing position, and detects the position of the shoulder based on the vertical position of the mechanical massage unit 8 at that time. Using the position of the shoulder as a reference, the positions of other parts (neck, back, waist, etc.) are calculated. A signal indicating the physical information detected by the sensor 83 is transmitted from the communication circuit 60 to the server 30.

[0048] The mechanical massage unit 8 may have a rotation detection sensor (not shown) that detects the rotation speed of the massage motor M1 instead of the sensor 83. The rotation detection sensor may be, for example, an optical sensor or a magnetic sensor. The rotation detection sensor detects the rotation speed of the massage motor M1, thereby indirectly detecting the strength of the massage received at a certain position on the user's back by the mechanical massage unit 8. This is because the strength of the massage received by the user's body is reflected in the rotation speed of the massage motor M1.

[0049] The massage device 1 has a sensor unit 14, which is a massage unit. The sensor unit 14 has a sensor 41. The sensor 41 detects the degree of the massage action and the state of the user. That is, the sensor 41 detects, for example, the position of the mechanical massage unit 8 and the presence or absence of a user in the seat portion 2 or backrest portion 3. A signal indicating the sensing result of the sensor unit 14 is transmitted from the communication circuit 60 to the server 30.

[0050] The massage device 1 has a reclining unit 18, which is a massage unit. The reclining unit 18 is a unit that changes the angle of the backrest portion 3 in accordance with the massage action as shown by arrow B in FIG. 1, and includes an actuator 23 that changes the angle and a drive circuit 21 that drives the actuator 23. A control signal E1 is input to the drive circuit 21 from a communication circuit 60, which will be described later. The drive circuit 21 controls the drive of the actuator 23 in accordance with the control signal E1 input from the communication circuit 60.

[0051] The massage device 1 includes a communication circuit 60, and is capable of two-way communication with the server 30 according to this embodiment. The communication with the server 30 is wireless communication, which eliminates the need for a communication line.

[0052] The wireless communication is, as an example, communication using a mobile communication system, and in the following description, it is assumed to be communication using a mobile communication system. In this case, the communication circuit 60 functions as a terminal device in the mobile communication system, and communicates bidirectionally with a server 30 included in a backhaul 52 via a base station 50. That is, the server 30 transmits a control signal E1 (to be described later) to the massage device 1, and the massage device 1 transmits a signal F1 (to be described later) including a signal indicating a sensing result to the server 30.

[0053] Preferably, the mobile communication system is a fifth-generation or later mobile communication system. One example is a fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G). In this case, the wireless communication between the communication circuit and the base station employs, for example, a system called grant-free, which does not require negotiation between the communication circuit and the base station before starting communication, and allows data transfer at any timing according to a predefined time schedule. This allows multiple terminals to connect to the server 30 simultaneously.

[0054] Therefore, the massage device 1 may include a plurality of communication circuits 60, each of which may be capable of communicating with the server 30. As an example, the plurality of communication circuits 60 may be included in each of the plurality of massage units and the sensor unit 14. This makes it possible to easily connect the communication circuits 60 to the drive circuit.

[0055] Furthermore, if the mobile communication system is a fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G), antenna technology enables high-speed, large-capacity communication. As the massage device 1 becomes more sophisticated, the massage action becomes more complex, which may result in the need for complex actuator actions. By enabling high-speed communication, the server 30 can control the complex actuator actions and cause the massage device 1 to perform complex massage actions. In other words, it is possible to control even a highly functional massage device 1.

[0056] As will be described later, when controlling the massage action of the massage device 1, the server 30 changes (adjusts) the control amount and the like using the sensing results from the sensors. By enabling high-speed communication, the server 30 can quickly obtain sensing results from the massage device 1. Furthermore, by enabling high-capacity communication, the server 30 can obtain more sensing results from the massage device 1. This enables the server 30 to cause the massage device 1 to perform flexible massage actions according to the situation.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 1, the tablet 10 may also be capable of two-way communication with the server 30 via a base station 50. In this case, the tablet 10 functions as an operating device for the massage device 1. The tablet 10 is configured as an external device for the massage device 1, such as a smartphone or a dedicated device attached to the massage device 1. The external device for the massage device 1 refers to a device that is different from the massage device 1 and exists entirely outside the massage device 1. Being outside the massage device 1 means that the device can exist outside a cover that covers the entire massage device 1, away from the massage device 1, and is controlled by a control mechanism that is separate and independent from the control mechanism of the massage device 1.

[0058] The massaging device 1 further includes a power supply unit 17. The power supply unit 17 receives power from an external source by connecting a conductive wire 71A. The power supply unit 17 includes a power supply circuit 71 for supplying the supplied power to the massaging units. The power supply unit 17 will be described later.

[0059] 3, server 30 according to this embodiment is configured by a computer having processor 31 and memory 32. Memory 32 may be a primary storage device or a secondary storage device.

[0060] The memory 32 stores a massage program 321 as a computer program executed by the processor 31. The massage program 321 represents a plurality of massage programs for each massage course (a program CO1 for a first course, a program CO2 for a second course, ...) as shown in Fig. 3 .

[0061] A massage course defines a combination of multiple massage actions and the timing of their execution, and the program CO1 for the first course is a program that causes the massage device 1 to execute the massage actions of the first course, and the program CO2 for the second course is a program that causes the massage device 1 to execute the massage actions of the second course. The massage courses will be explained later with specific examples.

[0062] The memory 32 has a massage chair DB (database) 322. The massage chair DB 322 stores chair information, which is information about the massage device to be controlled, that is, the massage device to which the control signal E1 is to be sent. As shown in Fig. 3, the massage chair DB 322 stores chair information about a plurality of massage devices 1. In other words, the server 30 can control a plurality of massage devices 1.

[0063] The chair information includes, for example, a unique identifier such as an ID (Identification) of the massage device 1 and a destination of the control signal E1. Preferably, the chair information includes rank information, which will be described later. The destination of the control signal E1 is access information of the communication circuit 60 included in each massage device 1.

[0064] The memory 32 has an application DB 323. The application DB 323 stores screen data for displaying an operation screen on the tablet 10 when an application for operating the massage device 1 is executed on the tablet 10. The screen data is prepared for each rank, which will be described later, such as a first rank operation screen SC1 and a second rank operation screen SC2, for example.

[0065] The server 30 further includes a communication device 33. The communication device 33 communicates with a communication circuit 60 included in the massage device 1 using a mobile communication system. The server 30 is included in a backhaul 52 of the mobile communication system, and is capable of two-way communication with the communication circuit 60 via a base station 50. The server 30 also receives a signal from the tablet 10. The signal from the tablet 10 instructs a massage operation. The processor 31 executes a massage program 321 stored in the memory 32 in response to the signal.

[0066] The communication device 33 receives a signal F1 from the communication circuit 60 of the massage device 1 via the base station 50. The received signal F1 is a signal from the massage unit and a signal from the sensor unit 14. The signal from the massage unit includes a signal indicating the driving state of the actuator. The signal from the massage unit may also include a signal indicating the sensing result of the sensor included in the massage unit. The processor 31 receives a signal indicating the sensing result of the sensor 41 from the sensor unit 14. The processor 31 uses these signals in the processing it performs.

[0067] The processor 31 executes the massage program 321 to perform the action identification process 311. The action identification process 311 is a process for identifying a massage course to be executed by the massage device 1 from a signal received by the communication device 33 from the tablet 10. As an example, the signal from the tablet 10 is coordinates representing the position of a user operation on the operation screen. In this case, the action identification process 311 identifies the instructed massage course from the operation screen displayed on the tablet 10 and the coordinates.

[0068] The processor 31 executes the massage program 321 to perform the generation process 312. The generation process 312 is a process for generating a control signal that causes the massage device 1 to perform a massage action according to the massage course identified in the action identification process 311. In the generation process 312, a control signal to be input to a drive circuit included in the massage unit of the massage device 1 is generated.

[0069] 4, the massage program 321 prescribes the massage units to be operated and the operation details for each massage operation specified in the massage course. As a specific example, referring to FIG. 4, the program CO1 for the first course prescribes a kneading operation (strong) in a period T1, followed by a tapping operation (strong) in the following period T2. Note that the example in FIG. 4 is conceptually shown for presentation to the user, and the massage program 321 may prescribe the actuators to be operated, such as turning the massage motor M1 on and off, the number of rotations, and the rotation speed, as well as the duration of the operations.

[0070] In the generation process 312, the processor 31 generates a control signal for instructing a necessary drive circuit to perform a necessary operation according to the massage course to be executed. In the example of Fig. 4, the control signal E1 is generated according to the program CO1 for the first course.

[0071] For example, for period T1, a control signal is generated that includes data (e.g., ID) Q1 specifying the drive circuit 811 as the destination of the control signal E1 to perform the kneading operation, and a signal SG1 indicating commands such as turning on / off, the number of rotations, and the rotation speed of the massage motor M1. Also, for period T2, a control signal is generated that includes data Q1 specifying the drive circuit 811 as the destination of the control signal E1 to perform the tapping operation, and a signal SG2 indicating commands such as turning on / off, the number of rotations, and the rotation speed of the massage motor M1.

[0072] The generation process 312 includes an adjustment process 313. The adjustment process 313 is a process for adjusting the control signal generated by the generation process 312 based on the sensing results obtained during the massage operation from the sensors included in each massage unit and the sensor 41 included in the sensor unit 14.

[0073] Preferably, the processor 31 stores in advance, for each massage operation, a sensor from among the multiple sensors provided in the massage device 1, whose sensing results are to be used in the adjustment process 313. This allows the processor 31 to adjust the control signal for that massage operation using the sensing results necessary for that massage operation from among the sensing results obtained from the massage device 1 during the massage operation in accordance with the transmitted control signal.

[0074] The sensing result is, for example, physical information obtained by sensing the user's body, such as the position of the user's shoulders or waist, and / or muscle flexibility. In generation process 312, processor 31 generates control signals for performing massage operations such as tapping or kneading at general positions in accordance with massage program 321, and in adjustment process 313, changes the position according to the position of the user's shoulders or waist, etc., indicated in the sensing result.

[0075] In the example of Figure 4, the processor 31 generates a control signal E1 that causes the massage motor M1 to drive at a drive amount that is predetermined as a kneading (strong), transmits it to the communication circuit 60, and then, when it receives the sensing results during the kneading operation, changes (adjusts) the control signal E1 to a control signal E1a for the kneading operation based on the sensing results.

[0076] 4, in the generation process 312, a control signal E1 for driving the massage motor M1 at level 1, which is a drive amount pre-assigned to a strong kneading force, is generated and transmitted to the massage device 1. When a signal indicating a sensing result is received from the massage device 1 within a period T1, the processor 31 executes the adjustment process 313 and changes the level as necessary based on the signal. For example, if the sensing result indicates that the user's muscles have become softer, e.g., if the rotation speed of the massage motor M1 is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the adjustment process 313 adjusts the control signal E1 to a control signal E1a so as to reduce the kneading strength from level 1 specified as "strong" to level 2. The control signal E1a includes an ID Q1 of the drive circuit 811 to which the control signal E1a is transferred, and a signal SG1a indicating commands such as on / off, rotation speed, and rotational speed of the massage motor M1 to achieve a kneading strength of level 2. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the kneading operation after sensing in the massage device 1 changes to level 2.

[0077] The processor 31 executes the massage program 321 to perform a chair identification process 314. The chair identification process 314 is a process for identifying the massage device 1 to be controlled from a signal received by the communication device 33 from the tablet 10. As an example, the signal from the tablet 10 includes coordinates representing the position of a user operation on the operation screen, and coordinates indicating the massage device 1 selected by the user as the target of operation. In this case, the chair identification process 314 identifies the selected massage device 1 from the operation screen displayed on the tablet 10 and the coordinates.

[0078] As another example, the signal from the tablet 10 may include the ID of the massage device 1 to be operated. In this case, in the chair identification process 314, the processor 31 searches the massage chair DB 322 using the ID obtained from the signal from the tablet 10, thereby identifying the selected massage device 1.

[0079] As another example, the chair information may specify the tablet 10 that can be operated for each massage device 1. In this case, in the chair identification process 314, the processor 31 searches the massage chair DB 322 using the identification information of the tablet 10 included in the signal from the tablet 10, thereby identifying the massage device 1 that is specified as the corresponding tablet 10.

[0080] The processor 31 executes the massage program 321 to execute the action control process 315. The action control process 315 is a process for making the massage device 1 identified as the object to be controlled execute the identified massage action. Specifically, the processor 31 passes the control signal generated by executing the generation process 312 or the control signal adjusted by further executing the adjustment process 313 to the communication device 33, and makes the communication device 33 transmit the control signal to the communication circuit 60 of the massage device 1 to be controlled, which is the destination read from the chair information.

[0081] At this time, the processor 31 passes a control signal to the communication device 33 at a timing according to the massage program 321, and causes it to be transmitted to the communication circuit 60 of the massage device 1. That is, the massage program 321 specifies the timing for each massage action, and transmits a control signal to the communication circuit 60 of the massage device 1 according to that timing. As a result, the massage device 1 performs the massage action instructed at the timing transmitted from the server 30. As a result, the massage device 1 performs the massage action according to the specified massage course.

[0082] The processor 31 executes the massage program 321 to perform a screen control process 316. The screen control process 316 is a process for displaying an operation screen for operating the massage device 1 on the tablet 10 in response to a signal received by the communication device 33 from the tablet 10. Specifically, the processor 31 reads out necessary screen data from the application DB 323, passes it to the communication device 33, and causes it to be transmitted to the tablet 10.

[0083] Preferably, the screen control process 316 includes a rank identification process 317, which displays an operation screen according to the identified rank. The rank identification process 317 is a process for identifying the rank of the massage action. The rank is a classification that defines the massage actions that can be performed for each massage device 1, and as an example, the higher the rank of the massage device 1, the more massage actions it can perform. The rank is determined according to the amount of consideration paid, the user's attributes such as gender, age, and physique, etc., such that the more consideration paid, the higher the rank.

[0084] In rank identification processing 317, the processor 31 identifies the rank of the massage device 1 to be operated by the tablet 10. As an example, the chair information includes a rank defined for each massage device 1 as shown in FIG.

[0085] When a rank is defined for each massage device 1, the operation screen may be different for each massage device 1. That is, an operation screen displaying selectable massage actions permitted for each massage device 1 may be displayed on the tablet 10. In this case, the application DB 323 stores operation screens for each rank, and the processor 31 reads out an operation screen corresponding to the rank identified in the rank identification process 317 from the application DB 323 and transmits it to the tablet 10.

[0086] 5, the tablet 10 is configured as a computer having a processor 11 and a memory 12. The memory 12 may also be a primary storage device or a secondary storage device. The tablet 10 further includes a communication device 13 for communicating using a mobile communication system.

[0087] The tablet 10 includes an operation unit 19 and a display 16. These may be integrated into a touch panel. The operation unit 19 accepts user operations and inputs operation signals to the processor 11. The display 16 displays a screen in accordance with the control of the processor 11.

[0088] The memory 12 stores a program 121 that is executed by the processor 11. The program 121 is a program that causes the tablet 10 to function as an operation device for the massage device 1.

[0089] The memory 12 has a massage chair DB 122. The massage chair DB 122 stores chair information, which is information about the massage device 1 to be operated. The chair information includes, for example, the ID of the massage device 1 and a server that transmits a signal based on the operation. As shown in FIG. 5, the massage chair DB 122 stores chair information about multiple massage devices 1. In other words, multiple massage devices 1 may be operable using one tablet 10. Conversely, one massage device 1 may be operable using multiple tablets 10.

[0090] As an example, the chair information may be acquired from the massage device 1. For example, the access destination of the server 30 may be attached to the massage device 1, and the chair information may be acquired by reading the access destination and accessing the server 30.

[0091] The processor 11 executes the program 121 to perform the screen request process 111. The screen request process 111 is a process for requesting the server 30 for an operation screen of the massage device 1. As an example, the processor 11 executes the screen request process 111 by receiving an operation signal from the operation unit 19 that specifies the massage device 1 to be operated and requests the start of operation.

[0092] The processor 11 identifies the destination server 30 from the chair information corresponding to the massage device 1 designated by the operation signal, and transmits a signal requesting an operation screen to the server 30. At that time, the processor 11 also transmits a signal indicating the massage device 1 to be operated.

[0093] The processor 11 executes the program 121 to perform the action request process 112. The action request process 112 is a process for requesting the server 30 to cause the massage device 1 to perform a massage action. As an example, the processor 11 executes the action request process 112 by receiving an operation signal from the operation unit 19 that specifies a massage action and requests its execution.

[0094] At this time, an operation screen based on the screen data transmitted from the server 30 in response to the screen request process 111 is displayed on the display 16 of the tablet 10. In the operation request process 112, the processor 11 transmits a signal specifying a user operation on the operation screen to the server 30. One example of the signal specifying the user operation is a signal indicating an operation position (e.g., a touch position) on the operation screen. The operation position is expressed, for example, by coordinates.

[0095] The processor 11 executes the program 121 to perform the screen control processing 113. The screen control processing 113 is processing for causing the display 16 to display a screen based on the screen data from the server 30.

[0096] A control method for the massage device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. When the tablet 10 is made to function as an operation device for the massage device 1, the processor 11 executes the program 121 and displays the initial operation screen of Fig. 7. On the initial operation screen of Fig. 7, massage devices 1 whose chair information is stored in the massage chair DB 122 as operation targets are displayed as options. On this screen, the tablet 10 receives a request for an operation screen by receiving a user operation to specify the massage device 1 and instruct to start operation (step S11).

[0097] When a user operation requesting an operation screen is accepted in step S11, the tablet 10 requests the server 30 for the operation screen (step S13). At this time, the tablet 10 transmits the ID of the massage device 1 to be operated together with a signal requesting the operation screen to the server 30. This allows the server 30 to identify the massage device 1 to be controlled when multiple massage devices 1 are stored in the server 30 so as to be controllable.

[0098] The server 30, which has received the request in step S13, identifies the massage device 1 to be operated (step S31). At that time, the server 30 also identifies the rank of the massage device 1 to be operated. Then, the server 30 selects an operation screen according to the rank of the massage device 1 to be operated from the application DB 323 (step S33) and transmits it to the tablet 10 (step S35). This allows the tablet 10 to display an operation screen according to the rank of the massage device 1.

[0099] An operation screen such as that shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the display 16 of the tablet 10 that has received the screen data transmitted in step S35 (step S15). As an example, if massage course 3 among massage courses 1 to 3 is not permitted for the massage device 1 to be operated, "Course 3" indicating massage course 3 cannot be selected, as shown in FIG. 7. "Course 3" does not have to be included in the operation screen, or may be displayed in an unselectable state, such as by being grayed out. This allows only massage actions permitted for the massage device 1 to be selected. In other words, the massage actions permitted for the massage device 1 can be easily restricted by compensation or the like.

[0100] When a user operation to select a massage course is accepted on the operation screen of Fig. 8 (step S17), a massage operation request is sent from the tablet 10 to the server 30 (step S19). At this time, the tablet 10 transmits to the server 30 a signal indicating the user's operation position on the operation screen of Fig. 8, together with the ID of the massage device 1 to be operated. The signal indicating the operation position is, for example, coordinate information.

[0101] Upon receiving the request in step S19, the server 30 identifies the massage device 1 to be operated and also identifies the massage course to be executed (step S37). If the coordinate information is transmitted in step S19, the server 30 in step S37 identifies the operation position in the operation screen data transmitted to the tablet 10 in step S35, thereby identifying the massage course to be executed.

[0102] When the massage device 1 and the massage course are identified in step S37, the server 30 executes the program of the massage course identified for the massage device 1 (step S39). In accordance with the execution of the program, the server 30 generates a control signal to be input to the drive circuit of the massage device 1 (step S91) and performs a process of transmitting the control signal (step S93). As a result, the control signal is transmitted to the massage device 1 (step S41).

[0103] In step S41, the communication circuit 60 receives a signal from the server 30 and passes the control signal to the drive circuit of the massage unit indicated in the control signal. In detail, referring to Fig. 9, the server 30 generates a control signal (first signal) for the required drive circuit in accordance with the massage action specified in the selected massage course.

[0104] For example, when driving any of the air cells of the air massage unit 15, a control signal E11 specifying the drive circuit of the solenoid valve of the air cell to be driven is generated and the communication device 33 is made to transmit this to the communication circuit 60. When driving the massage motor M1 of the mechanical massage unit 8, a control signal E12 specifying the drive circuit 811 is generated and the communication device 33 is made to transmit this to the communication circuit 60.

[0105] The first control signal is transmitted to the communication circuit 60 of the massage device 1 to be controlled using a mobile communication system, and is passed to the target control circuit. In the example of FIG. 9, the control signal E11 is input to the drive circuit 51A. The control signal E12 is input to the drive circuit 811.

[0106] These first signals are control signals input to the drive circuits of the massage units, and in the case of the mechanical massage unit 8, they are signals that instruct the massage motor M1 to be turned on or off, the number of rotations, the rotation speed, etc. In the case of the air massage unit 15, they are signals that instruct the solenoid valve (not shown) included in the air cell 20 to be turned on or off, etc.

[0107] Each drive circuit inputs a second signal to the actuator it controls based on the first signal. The second signal is a signal that is predefined for the actuator and that operates the actuator. For example, the drive circuit 51A of the air massage unit 15 outputs a second signal E21 to the solenoid valve 20A of the air cell in accordance with the first signal E11, instructing the solenoid valve 20A to turn on or off the solenoid valve 20A. The drive circuit 811 of the mechanical massage unit 8 outputs a second signal E22, which is a drive signal for the massage motor M1, such as a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signal, to the massage motor M1. As a result, the massage device 1 performs the massage operation instructed by the server 30, that is, the massage operation instructed by the user using the tablet 10 (step S51).

[0108] During the massaging operation, the sensor included in each massage unit or the sensor unit 14 performs sensing (step S53), and the result is sent to the server 30 (step S55). In step S55, the massage device 1 transmits the ID of the massage device 1 together with a signal indicating the sensing result. This allows the server 30 to identify the massage device 1 to be controlled when multiple massage devices 1 are stored in the server 30 so that they can be controlled.

[0109] In the server 30 that has received the sensing results transmitted in step S55, in the process of step S39 in which the massage program is executed, a process is executed to adjust the control signal generated in step S91 based on the sensing results (step S92).

[0110] The adjustment in step S92 includes, for example, changing the drive amount of the lift motor M2 so that the movement distance of the mechanical massage unit 8 corresponds to the position of the shoulder when the sensing result is the position of the user's shoulder obtained by the sensor 83. Also, when the sensing result is the internal pressure of the air cell obtained by the pressure sensor 53, changing the amount of air supplied by the pump unit 9 includes changing the timing of opening and closing an electromagnetic valve (not shown) so that the internal pressure of the air cell 20 becomes appropriate.

[0111] Steps S91, S92, and S93 are repeatedly performed while the massage program of step S39 is being executed by the server 30. As a result, the massage device 1 performs a massage action according to the massage course selected by the user using the tablet 10.

[0112] Next, the processing in the server 30 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 10. Referring to Fig. 10, when the processor 31 of the server 30 receives a request for a massage operation from the tablet 10 (YES in step S101), it identifies the massage device 1 to be controlled from the received signal (step S103) and identifies the instructed massage course (step S105). Thereafter, it executes the massage program 321 corresponding to the identified massage course and performs processing according to that program.

[0113] That is, the processor 31 generates a control signal for driving the actuator with a specified drive amount in a specified drive circuit in accordance with the massage program 321 (step S107). At this time, if a sensing result obtained while the massage operation is already being performed is received (YES in step S109), the processor 31 adjusts the control signal generated in step S107 (step S111). Specifically, in step S111, the processor 31 changes the control amount in accordance with the received sensing result. The change in the control amount may be, for example, a change in the rotation speed of the massage motor M1, a change in the timing of opening and closing the solenoid valve, etc.

[0114] The processor 31 transmits the control signal to the massage device 1 (step S113). In step S113, the processor 31 passes the control signal to the communication device 33, causing it to transmit the control signal to the communication circuit 60 of the massage device 1 to be controlled via the base station 50.

[0115] Processor 31 repeats the series of processes until the specified massage course is completed (NO in step S115), and when the massage course is completed (YES in step S115), the series of processes ends.

[0116] By carrying out the above processing, a program for performing massage operations according to the massage course is executed in the server 30, and control signals to be input to the multiple massage units for performing multiple massage operations according to the program are generated in the server 30. The control signals are transmitted from the server 30 to the massage device 1 via the base station 50 using a mobile communication system. Therefore, the massage device 1 receives the control signals via the communication circuit 60 and passes them to a specified drive circuit to perform the specified massage operation.

[0117] In contrast, the massage device 1A according to the comparative example has a main board 60B as shown in Fig. 12. In the massage device 1A according to the comparative example, the main board 60B receives instructions on the massage course to be executed from the tablet 10, a server, or the like.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 12, the main board 60B according to the comparative example includes a processor 61 and a memory 62 that stores a program for causing the processor 61 to perform a massage operation according to a massage course.

[0119] When an instruction for a massage course to be executed is received, in the massage device 1A according to the comparative example, the processor 61 of the main board 60B reads out a program corresponding to the specified massage course from the memory 62, executes it, and generates control signals to be input to each drive circuit. That is, in the massage device 1A according to the comparative example, the main board 60B executes the process of FIG. 10.

[0120] By configuring the server 30 according to this embodiment to execute the process of FIG. 10, the massaging device 1 according to this embodiment can eliminate the need for the main board 60B that the massaging device 1A according to the comparative example has. As described above, the main board 60B is required to have high processing power, and therefore is expensive. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the price of the massage machine from rising. Furthermore, it is possible to achieve a smaller and lighter device.

[0121] [Second embodiment]

[0122] Preferably, power is supplied from the power supply unit 17 to at least one of the massage units wirelessly. By including a massage unit that receives power via wireless communication in the massage device 1, the effort required for wiring inside the massage device 1 can be reduced, making it easier to manufacture. In addition, the space required for wiring can be reduced, preventing the device from becoming larger. Note that the multiple massage units may include a massage unit that receives power via a wire from the power supply unit 17.

[0123] As an example, the power supply unit 17 is disposed below the seat 2 of the massage device 1, and is located near the pump unit 9, which is also disposed below the seat 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the pump unit 9 has a power receiving circuit 94 for receiving power from the power supply unit 17, and the power receiving circuit 94 is connected to the power supply circuit 71 by a conductive wire, thereby receiving power from the power supply circuit 71. This is because, if a larger amount of power can be supplied per unit time via a wired connection than via wireless communication, the amount of power supplied per unit time can be increased by a wired connection for the pump unit 9, which requires more power. Furthermore, since the pump unit 9 is located close to the power supply unit 17, wiring does not require much effort.

[0124] The power supply unit 17 further includes a power transmitter 72, a power transmission control unit 73, and a communication circuit 74. The communication circuit 74 receives a control signal E1 from the server 30 via the communication circuit 60. The power transmitter 72 supplies power to the massage unit via wireless communication. The power transmission control unit 73 controls the power transmission by the power transmitter 72 based on the control signal from the server 30.

[0125] The massage unit has a wireless power receiving circuit. For more details, referring to Fig. 2, the sensor unit 14 has a wireless power receiving circuit 44. The reclining unit 18 has a wireless power receiving circuit 24. The mechanical massage unit 8 has a wireless power receiving circuit 84.

[0126] The air massage unit 15 has a wireless power receiving circuit 54. As shown in Fig. 1, the air massage unit 15 is disposed in each part such as the seat part 2, the backrest part 3, the footrest 4, the pillow part 5, the armrest part 6, and the side wall part 7. Therefore, if power is supplied wirelessly, the amount of wiring can be significantly reduced.

[0127] Various wireless power supply methods can be used for the power transmitter 72. Examples include an electromagnetic induction method, a magnetic resonance method, an electric field coupling method, and a radio wave reception method. Wireless power supply may be performed using a single power supply method, or multiple power supply methods may be used depending on the distance from the massage unit, the required power, etc.

[0128] As an example, the flow of power supply will be described using a case where power is supplied by radio wave reception, with reference to Figure 11. As for the wireless power receiving circuit, the wireless power receiving circuit 84 of the mechanical massage unit 8 will be described as a representative example.

[0129] 11, power supply circuit 71 of power supply unit 17 includes an AC / DC conversion circuit 75. AC / DC conversion circuit 75 converts a DC voltage input from the outside via conductive line 71A into an AC voltage.

[0130] The power transmitter 72 includes a power transmission circuit 76 and an antenna 77. The power transmission circuit 76 includes a semiconductor oscillator and the like. The power transmission circuit 76 generates electromagnetic waves for transmitting the power converted into AC by the AC / DC conversion circuit 75 under the control of a transmission control unit 73 based on a command from the server 30.

[0131] The antenna 77 emits the electromagnetic wave E generated by the power transmission circuit 76. The electromagnetic wave is, for example, a microwave of 2.45 GHz.

[0132] The wireless power receiving circuit 84 has an antenna 87. The antenna 87 receives the electromagnetic wave E radiated from the antenna 77.

[0133] The wireless power receiving circuit 84 further includes a rectifier circuit 88 and a power receiving control unit 89. The rectifier circuit 88 converts a high-frequency received current received by the antenna 87 into a direct current.

[0134] The power receiving control unit 89 may transmit a signal indicating whether or not the wireless power receiving circuit 84 is capable of receiving power to the server 30 via the communication device 60. By receiving this signal, the server 30 may instruct the power transmission control unit 73 to transmit power depending on whether or not the wireless power receiving circuit 84 is capable of receiving power. Alternatively, the power transmission control unit 73 may obtain a signal indicating whether or not the wireless power receiving circuit 84 is capable of receiving power from the power receiving control unit 89 in accordance with a control signal from the server 30, and start transmitting power depending on whether or not the wireless power receiving circuit 84 is capable of receiving power.

[0135] The mechanical massage unit 8 further includes a battery 85. The battery 85 is capable of storing the power output from the wireless power receiving circuit 84. The power stored in the battery 85 is supplied to the drive circuit 811 and the like.

[0136] The massaging unit further includes a converter for converting the voltage if the driving voltage is different from the voltage received from the power supply 17. In the cases of Figures 2 and 11, the mechanical massage unit 8 has a converter 86, and the voltage of the power output from the rectifier circuit 88 is converted by the converter 86 and stored in the battery 85.

[0137] The power output from the rectifier circuit 88 may be stored in the battery 85 without being subjected to voltage conversion. In this case, the converter 86 converts the voltage of the power output from the battery 85 and supplies it to the drive circuit 811, etc. In this case as well, power that matches the operating voltage is supplied.

[0138] Furthermore, by supplying power to each massage unit wirelessly, the amount of wiring required for power supply can be reduced.

[0139] The processing of the disclosed server 30 is described above as being realized by the processor 31 executing the massage program 321, but at least a part of it may be realized by circuit elements or other hardware. Similarly, the processing of the tablet 10 is described above as being realized by the processor 11 executing the program 121, but at least a part of it may be realized by circuit elements or other hardware.

[0140] The programs 321 and 121 that realize these processes may be provided as a program product recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium, or may be provided by downloading via a network.

[0141] The programs 321 and 121 have program code for processing in the server 30 and the tablet 10. The programs 321 and 121 are read and executed by the processors 31 and 11 connected to the memories in which they are stored.

[0142] The programs 321 and 121 may be provided as application programs, or part or all of them may be included in the operating system (OS) of the computer.

[0143] <3. Notes> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1: Massage device 1A: Massage device 2: Seat part 3: Backrest 4: Footrest 5: Pillow part 6: Armrest 7: Side wall 8: Mechanical massage unit 9: Pump unit 10: Tablet 11: Processor 12: Memory 13: Communication equipment 14: Sensor unit 15: Air massage unit 16: Display 17: Power supply section 18: Reclining unit 19:Operation section 20: Air cell 20A: Solenoid valve 20B: Solenoid valve 20C: Solenoid valve 20D: Solenoid valve 20E: Solenoid valve 20F: Solenoid valve 20G: Solenoid valve 20H: Solenoid valve 20I: Solenoid valve 20J: Solenoid valve 21: Drive circuit 23: Actuator 24: Wireless power receiving circuit 30: Server 31: Processor 32: Memory 33: Communication equipment 41: Sensor 44: Wireless receiving circuit 50:Base station 51: Drive circuit 51A: Drive circuit 51B: Drive circuit 52: Backhaul 53: Pressure sensor 54: Wireless power receiving circuit 60: Communication circuit 60B: Main board 61: Processor 62: Memory 71: Power supply circuit 71A: Conductive wire 72: Power transmitter 73: Power transmission control unit 74: Communication circuit 75: AC / DC conversion circuit 76: Power transmission circuit 77: Antenna 83: Sensor 84: Wireless power receiving circuit 85: Battery 86: Converter 87: Antenna 88: Rectifier circuit 89: Wireless power receiving circuit 91: Drive circuit 93: Pump 94: Receiving circuit 111: Screen request processing 112: Action request processing 113: Screen control processing 121: Program 122: Massage Chair DB 311: Action identification processing 312: Generation process 313: Adjustment process 314: Chair identification processing 315: Operation control processing 316: Screen control processing 317: Rank discrimination processing 321: Massage Program 322: Massage Chair DB 323: App DB 811: Drive circuit 812: Drive circuit A: Arrow B: Arrow CO1: Program for Course 1 CO2: Program for the second course E: Electromagnetic wave E1: Control signal E11: Control signal (first signal) E12: Control signal (first signal) E1a: Control signal E21: Second traffic light E22: Second traffic light F1 :Signal M1: Massage motor M2: Lifting motor Q1: Data SC1: 1st rank operation screen SC2: Second rank operation screen SG1: Signal SG1a: Signal SG2: Signal T1: Period T2: Period

Claims

1. A server that controls a massage chair that operates by operating an operation device having an operation screen, The massage chair is a plurality of massage units arranged in respective parts of the massage chair for performing massage actions on the user's body, and a communication circuit; the communication circuit is connected to the plurality of massage units via a drive circuit so as to be able to operate the massage units; There are a plurality of massage chairs, Each massage chair has a rank that defines the massage movements that can be performed. As the rank increases, more massage actions can be performed. The server a processor; a memory; The memory stores a massage program to be executed by the processor, and information about the massage chair including identification information that can identify the massage chair and the rank; the server is capable of receiving a signal including the identification information from the operation device; The processor executes a screen control process for displaying the operation screen for operating the massage chair on the operation device by searching the identification information from the memory in response to the signal received from the operation device; The screen control process includes: a rank identification process for identifying the rank according to the massage chair; An operation screen corresponding to the massage chair is displayed according to the rank identified by the rank identification process, The server is configured to execute the massage program selected by the user on the operation screen.

2. the processor executes the massage program to generate a control signal to be provided to each of the plurality of massage units; configured to transmit the control signal to the communication circuit by wireless communication; The massage program is a program that defines a combination of a plurality of massage actions and the timing of their execution, The server according to claim 1, wherein transmitting the control signal includes transmitting a control signal to be given to a massage unit that performs the massage operation in accordance with the timing of performing the massage operation specified in the massage program.

3. The memory stores the communication circuit of each of the plurality of massage chairs as a transmission destination of a control signal, The server according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor executes the massage program for a designated massage chair from among the plurality of massage chairs and transmits the control signal.

4. receiving instructions for massage actions from the terminal device of the massage chair; The server according to claim 3 , wherein the processor transmits the control signal generated in response to the instruction to a massage chair corresponding to the terminal device among the plurality of massage chairs.

Images