Electrical stimulator

Abstract

To provide an electrostimulation device that enables improvement of the physical sensation through electrostimulation to be realized. The electrostimulation device that imparts electrostimulation to muscles of a user comprises: a main unit 12; a pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R provided to the main unit 12 as independent units, the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R respectively corresponding to the left and right legs of the user; fittings 14L and 14R that are attached to the lower body of the user; second electrodes 32L and 32R that are provided to the fittings 14L and 14R; and a control unit 48 that controls electric power supplied for electrostimulation from a power source to the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R and the second electrodes 32L and 32R.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electrical stimulation device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to a user's muscles has been proposed. By using this, exercise accompanied by muscle contraction and relaxation is promoted. As an example, Patent Document 1 describes an electrical stimulation device in which a pair of electrodes for feet corresponding to the left and right feet are provided on a main body.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The inventor examined the electrical stimulation device of Patent Document 1. As a result, it was recognized that there is room for improvement in improving the physical sensation due to electrical stimulation when applying electrical stimulation using a main body provided with a pair of electrodes for feet.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention has been made in view of such problems, and one of its objects is to provide an electrical stimulation device capable of improving the physical sensation due to electrical stimulation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] One aspect of the present invention for solving the aforementioned problems is an electrical stimulation device for applying electrical stimulation to a user's muscles, comprising: a main body; a pair of first electrodes individually provided on the main body corresponding to each of the user's left and right feet and applied to the corresponding feet; a mounting device attached to the user's lower body; a second electrode provided on the mounting device; and a control unit for controlling the electrical stimulation power supplied from a power source to the pair of first electrodes and the second electrodes.

[0007] According to the aforementioned electrical stimulation device, it is possible to improve sensory perception through electrical stimulation. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the electrical stimulation device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a plan view of the main body of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a side view of the main body of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4(A) is a schematic diagram showing the first usage scenario of the electrical stimulation device of the first embodiment, and Figure 4(B) is a schematic diagram showing the second usage scenario. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the functions of the electrical stimulation device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the electrical stimulation device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7(A) is a rear view of the second electrode of the first embodiment, and Figure 7(B) is a cross-sectional view AA of Figure 7(A). [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view of BB in Figure 1. [Figure 9] This is a side view of the main body of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a plan view of the main body of the third embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a side view of the electrical stimulation device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of the main body of the fifth embodiment, seen from the front. [Figure 13]Perspective view of the main body of the fifth embodiment as seen from the rear side. [Figure 14] Schematic side cross-sectional view of the main body of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] Schematic side cross-sectional view of the main body of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 16] Schematic side cross-sectional view of the main body of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 17] Table showing an example of the operation pattern of the electrical stimulation device. [Figure 18] Table showing another example of the operation pattern of the electrical stimulation device. [Figure 19] Schematic diagram showing other usage scenarios of the electrical stimulation device.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The same components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted. In each drawing, for the sake of convenience of explanation, a part of the components is appropriately omitted, or their dimensions are appropriately enlarged or reduced. The drawings are to be viewed in accordance with the direction of the reference numerals. In this specification, "apply", "contact", "fix", and "attach" include cases where the two directly satisfy the mentioned conditions and cases where they are satisfied through other members, unless otherwise specified.

[0010] (First Embodiment) Refer to FIG. 1. The electrical stimulation device 10 is for applying electrical stimulation to the muscles of a user. As used in this specification, the "user" refers to, for example, a person with an average build in the country where the electrical stimulation device 10 is sold. The electrical stimulation device 10 can be used, for example, for muscle strength training. The electrical stimulation device 10 of the present embodiment includes a main body 12, attachment tools 14L and 14R, and connection members 16L and 16R.

[0011] Refer to FIGS. 2 and 3. The main body 12 of this embodiment is used by being placed on the floor surface FL. Hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the description will be based on the case where the main body 12 is arranged on a horizontal floor surface FL. At this time, the description will be made using three mutually orthogonal directions. These directions are the front-back direction X, the left-right direction Y, and the up-down direction Z. The front-back direction Y and the left-right direction Y are horizontal directions, and the up-down direction Z is a vertical direction.

[0012] A pair of footrest portions 18L and 18R that individually correspond to the left and right feet Ft of the user are provided on the main body 12. The pair of footrest portions 18L and 18R includes a left footrest portion 18L corresponding to the left foot and a right footrest portion 18R corresponding to the right foot.

[0013] The footrest portions 18L and 18R are in a shape that can place at least a part of the corresponding foot Ft. The footrest portions 18L and 18R of this embodiment are composed of a plurality of footrest regions 20A and 20B. The plurality of footrest regions 20A and 20B include a heel-side footrest region 20A where at least the heel of the foot Ft can be placed and a toe-side footrest region 20B where at least the toes of the foot Ft can be placed.

[0014] A pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R are provided on the main body 12. The pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R are individually provided corresponding to the left and right feet. The pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R of this embodiment includes a left-side first electrode 22L corresponding to the left foot and a right-side first electrode 22R corresponding to the right foot. The pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R can also be regarded as corresponding to the left and right halves of the user respectively. The pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R are for applying an electronic stimulus by applying them to the corresponding foot (half body) of the user. Each of the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R of this embodiment constitutes each of the pair of footrest portions 18L and 18R.

[0015] The main body 12 of this embodiment has a hollow structure and comprises a housing 24 and a pad member 26 fixed to the housing 24 using screws or the like. The pad member 26 of this embodiment constitutes the footrests 18L, 18R and the first electrodes 22L, 22R. The pad member 26 is made of, for example, conductive rubber. This conductive rubber is made by mixing a conductive agent such as carbon black or metal powder into a rubber base material such as ethylene propylene diene rubber.

[0016] The main body 12 is provided with a plurality of operating sections 28A and 28B used to change the operation of the electrical stimulation device 10. The plurality of operating sections 28A and 28B in this embodiment include a first operating section 28A and a second operating section 28B provided on the upper surface of the main body 12. The operating sections 28A and 28B in this embodiment are separate components from the housing 24 and are fixed to the housing 24 using screws (not shown) or the like. The operating sections 28A and 28B in this embodiment constitute buttons that are pressed by the user.

[0017] Refer to Figures 1 and 4(B). The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are attached to the user's body. In this embodiment, the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are attached to the user's lower body. Here, "lower body" includes legs and waist, and "legs" includes feet and thighs. In this embodiment, the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R include a left mounting fixture 14L corresponding to the user's left half and a right mounting fixture 14R corresponding to its right half. In this embodiment, the left mounting fixture 14L is attached to the upper thigh of the left leg, and the right mounting fixture 14R is attached to the upper thigh of the right leg.

[0018] The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R of this embodiment are flexible planar structures. Unless otherwise specified, the following description will be based on the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R in a planar unfolded state. The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R of this embodiment are long, belt-shaped when viewed in the thickness direction (the direction perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 1). The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R of this embodiment are attached to the body by being wrapped around it.

[0019] The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are provided with connecting structures 30 at both ends in the longitudinal direction, which allow them to be detachably connected to each other. In this embodiment, the connecting structure 30 is a hook-and-loop fastener, but is not particularly limited and may be a snap button or the like. The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R in this embodiment have a hollow structure and are integrated by sewing the outer edges of the front fabric member 52 and the back fabric member 54 (see Figure 8) together.

[0020] The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are provided with second electrodes 32L and 32R. The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are provided with individual second electrodes 32L and 32R corresponding to each of the multiple first electrodes 22L and 22R. The multiple second electrodes 32L and 32R include a left second electrode 32L corresponding to the left first electrode 22L and a right second electrode 32R corresponding to the right first electrode 22R. In this embodiment, the left second electrode 32L is provided on the left mounting fixture 14L, and the right second electrode 32R is provided on the right mounting fixture 14R. The multiple second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided corresponding to the left and right halves of the body, similar to the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R. The second electrodes 32L and 32R are intended to apply electrical stimulation to the corresponding half of the user's body. In this embodiment, the second electrodes 32L and 32R are applied to the body at the same locations as the attachment points of the body attachment devices 14L and 14R. In this embodiment, the left second electrode 32L is applied to the upper thigh of the left leg, and the right second electrode 32R is applied to the upper thigh of the right leg.

[0021] The connecting members 16L and 16R connect the main body 12 to the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. Each connecting member 16L and 16R is individually provided to correspond to one of the multiple mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, and connects the corresponding mounting fixture 14L or 14R to the main body 12. The connecting members 16L and 16R include a left-side connecting member 16L that corresponds to the left-side mounting fixture 14L and connects the left-side mounting fixture 14L to the main body 12, and a right-side connecting member 16R that corresponds to the right-side mounting fixture 14R and connects the right-side mounting fixture 14R to the main body 12. As a result, the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R can be integrated using the connecting members 16L and 16R, making them easy to carry and use.

[0022] The connecting members 16L and 16R of this embodiment are equipped with an electrical cable 34. At least a portion of the connecting members 16L and 16R is flexible so as to follow changes in the position of the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. Here, "at least a portion" refers to the electrical cable 34 in this embodiment.

[0023] In this embodiment, the connecting members 16L and 16R can transmit electrical stimulation power from the control unit 48 (described later) mounted on the main body 12 to the second electrodes 32L and 32R of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. The connecting members 16L and 16R can be understood as being able to transmit electrical stimulation power supplied from the control unit 48 mounted on one of the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R to the electrode provided on the other. Here, "one" refers to the main body 12 in this embodiment, and "the other" refers to the mounting fixtures 14 and 14R.

[0024] The connecting members 16L and 16R are detachably connected to the main body 12 and at least one of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R via a first connector 36. In this embodiment, the connecting members 16L and 16R are detachably connected to the main body 12, and connected to the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R by sewing, wrapping, adhesive, etc. The first connector 36 is provided at the ends of the electrical cables 34 of the connecting members 16L and 16R, and the main body 12 is provided with a first receiving portion 38 to which the connecting members 16L and 16R are connected via the first connector 36. In this embodiment, the first connector 36 is a plug, and the first receiving portion 38 is a jack. In this embodiment, the first receiving portion 38 is provided on the left and right sides of the main body 12.

[0025] Refer to Figure 5. Each block can be implemented hardware-wise using elements and mechanical devices, such as integrated circuits, and software-wise using computer programs, etc. Here, we depict functional blocks that are realized through the coordination of these elements. It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that these functional blocks can be implemented in various ways through combinations of hardware and software.

[0026] In addition to the electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, 32R and operating units 28A, 28B mentioned above, the electrical stimulation device 10 of this embodiment includes a power supply 40, a display unit 42, a contact detection unit 44, a connection detection unit 46, and a control unit 48.

[0027] In this embodiment, the power supply 40 is housed in the main body 12. The power supply 40 is a primary battery such as a manganese battery, but it may also be a rechargeable secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery. The power supply 40 is electrically connected to the control unit 48 and supplies power to the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R via the control unit 48.

[0028] The display unit 42 is configured using, for example, a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or the like. The display unit 42 displays information related to the operation of the electrical stimulation device 10. In this embodiment, the display unit 42 displays, for example, the output level of the electrical stimulation power.

[0029] The contact detection unit 44 detects the contact state of the user's body with a pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R. The contact detection unit 44 is, for example, a load sensor, a touch sensor, a resistance detection circuit, etc. The contact detection unit 44 is electrically connected to the control unit 48 and outputs a signal indicating the detection result to the control unit 48.

[0030] The connection detection unit 46 detects the connection between the main body 12 and the connecting members 16L and 16R of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. The connection detection unit 46 is, for example, a resistance detection circuit, a switch, a proximity sensor, etc. The connection detection unit 46 is electrically connected to the control unit 48 and outputs a signal indicating the detection result to the control unit 48. In this embodiment, the connection detection unit 46 is provided individually for each of the multiple connecting members 16L and 16R and detects the connection by the corresponding connecting member 16L and 16R.

[0031] The case where a resistance detection circuit is used as the connection detection unit 46 will be explained. If the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are not connected by the connecting members 16L and 16R, the first electrodes 22L and 22R and the second electrodes 32L and 32R are not electrically connected by the connecting members 16L and 16R, and the electrical resistance between them approaches infinity. On the other hand, if the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are connected by the connecting members 16L and 16R, the first electrodes 22L and 22R and the second electrodes 32L and 32R are electrically connected by the connecting members 16L and 16R, and the electrical resistance between them becomes smaller than in the case described above. When a resistance detection circuit is used in the connection detection unit 46, the resistance values ​​of these first electrodes 22L and 22R and second electrodes 32L and 32R are detected, and the connection by the connecting members 16L and 16R can be detected by comparing these resistance values ​​with a threshold value.

[0032] In this embodiment, the control unit 48 changes the operation of the electrical stimulator 10 in different ways depending on the pressing time of the operation units 28A and 28B. Pressing operations of the operation units 28A and 28B for a time less than a predetermined threshold time (for example, 1.5 seconds) are called short press operations, and pressing operations for a time greater than or equal to the predetermined threshold time are called long press operations. In this embodiment, the control unit 48 decreases the output level of the electrical stimulation power each time the first operation unit 28A is short pressed, and increases the output level each time the second operation unit 28B is short pressed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit 48 turns off the power supply 40 when the first operation unit 28A is long pressed, and turns on the power supply 40 when the second operation unit 28B is long pressed.

[0033] The control unit 48 is electrically connected to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, 32R and the power supply 40. In this embodiment, the control unit 48 is electrically connected to multiple first electrodes 22L, 22R and the power supply 40 via the internal wiring of the main unit 12, and is electrically connected to multiple second electrodes 32L, 32R via the internal wiring of the main unit 12 and connecting members 16L, 16R.

[0034] The control unit 48 applies electrical stimulation to the user's body by performing electrical stimulation control, which controls the electrical stimulation power supplied from the power supply 40 to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R. This electrical stimulation power (hereinafter also simply referred to as power) is, for example, an alternating current within a preset frequency range. This electrical stimulation power may also be, for example, a direct current. This frequency range is set to a range that can provide electrical stimulation to the user's muscles. Electrical stimulation control is performed by supplying power at a predetermined output level to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R according to a predetermined operating pattern. When using alternating current, the output level is determined using either the peak value or the RMS value of its voltage.

[0035] In this electrical stimulation control, the control unit 48 sets the power supply destination from among the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R, and supplies power to the set electrode. In this embodiment, the control unit 48 sets the power supply destination from among the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R depending on whether or not the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L, 14R are connected by connecting members 16L, 16R. This setting method will be described later.

[0036] An example of a usage scenario for the electrical stimulation device 10 described above will be explained. Refer to Figure 4. The usage scenarios of this embodiment include a first usage scenario using multiple first electrodes 22L, 22R of the main unit 12 (see Figure 4(A)) and a second usage scenario using the first electrodes 22L, 22R of the main unit 12 and the second electrodes 32L, 32R of the mounting fixtures 14L, 14R (see Figure 4(B)). In either usage scenario, the user may assume, for example, a standing posture, a sitting posture, etc.

[0037] In the first usage scenario, the user places their left and right feet on the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R, respectively. In this embodiment, the user places their feet on the footrests 18L and 18R formed by the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R, thereby placing their left and right feet on the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R, respectively. In the second usage scenario, in addition to the way the main unit 12 is used in the first usage scenario, the attachments 14L and 14R are attached to the user's body. This allows the second electrodes 32L and 32R of the attachments 14L and 14R to be placed against the user's body.

[0038] Next, an example of the operation of the electrical stimulation device 10 will be described. Refer to Figures 4 and 6.

[0039] The control unit 48 of the electrical stimulation device 10 starts electrical stimulation control when predetermined electrical stimulation initiation conditions are met (S10). Here, the electrical stimulation initiation conditions are, for example, pressing and holding the second operation unit 28B when the power is turned on.

[0040] When the control unit 48 starts electrical stimulation control, it sets the power supply destination from among the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R depending on whether the main unit 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are connected by connecting members 16L and 16R (S12). In this embodiment, the control unit 48 sets the power supply destination based on the detection result of the connection detection unit 46.

[0041] More specifically, when the control unit 48 starts electrical stimulation control, it causes the connection detection unit 46 to detect the connection of the main units 12, 14L, and 14R by the connecting members 16L and 16R, and outputs a signal indicating the detection result from the connection detection unit 46 to the control unit 48.

[0042] Let's consider a first usage scenario as shown in Figure 4(A). In the example shown, the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are not connected by the connecting members 16L and 16R. The control unit 48 sets the power supply destination to form a first closed circuit Ca passing through multiple first electrodes 22L and 22R, provided that the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are not connected by the connecting members 16L and 16R. In this embodiment, the control unit 48 sets the power supply destination in this way, provided that the connection detection unit 46 detects that this state exists.

[0043] The first closed circuit Ca is a path that passes through at least two of the multiple first electrodes 22L and 22R, but does not pass through the second electrodes 32L and 32R. At this time, the control unit 48 sets the multiple first electrodes 22L and 22R that form the first closed circuit Ca as power supply destinations. Hereinafter, the mode in which power is supplied to the electrodes 22L and 22R set in this manner will be referred to as the first operating mode.

[0044] In the example shown in the figure, the power supply destination is set to form a first closed circuit Ca passing through the left first electrode 22L and the right first electrode 22R. At this time, the left first electrode 22L and the right first electrode 22R are set as the power supply destinations that form the first closed circuit Ca. This first closed circuit Ca is a path that passes through the control unit 48, the left first electrode 22L, the right first electrode 22R and the body. In this embodiment, "body" includes the user's left foot, left thigh, waist, right thigh, and right foot. When electrical stimulation power is supplied to this first closed circuit Ca, the movement of the muscles along that path is promoted.

[0045] Next, let's consider a second usage scenario as shown in Figure 4(B). In the example shown, the main body 12 and the left mounting bracket 14L are connected by the left connecting member 16L, and the main body 12 and the right mounting bracket 14R are connected by the right connecting member 16R. The control unit 48 sets the power supply destination to form a second closed circuit CbL, CbR passing through the first electrodes 22L, 22R and the second electrodes 32L, 32R, provided that the main body 12 and the mounting brackets 14L, 14R are connected by the connecting members 16L, 16R. In this embodiment, the control unit 48 sets the power supply destination in this way, provided that the connection detection unit 46 detects that this state exists.

[0046] The first electrodes 22L, 22R and the second electrodes 32L, 32R that form the second closed circuits CbL, CbR are provided on the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L, 14R, respectively, to which connecting members 16L, 16R are connected, and are electrically connected via these connecting members 16L, 16R. The second closed circuits CbL, CbR pass through the first electrodes 22L, 22R and the second electrodes 32L, 32R, which are electrically connected to each other, and have a different path from the first closed circuit Ca. At this time, the control unit 48 sets the first electrodes 22L, 22R and the second electrodes 32L, 32R that form the second closed circuits CbL, CbR as power supply destinations. Hereinafter, the mode in which power is supplied to the electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, 32R set in this manner will be referred to as the second operating mode.

[0047] The control unit 48 in this embodiment sets the power supply destination to form a plurality of second closed circuits CbL and CbR. These plurality of second closed circuits CbL and CbR are paths passing through different first electrodes 22L and 22R and second electrodes 32L and 32R. The plurality of second closed circuits CbL and CbR in this embodiment are set to correspond to the left and right halves of the user's body, respectively. The plurality of second closed circuits CbL and CbR include a left-side second closed circuit CbL corresponding to the left half of the body and a right-side second closed circuit CbR corresponding to the right half of the body.

[0048] In the example shown in the figure, the power supply destinations are set to form a left-side second closed circuit CbL passing through the left-side first electrode 22L and the left-side second electrode 32L, and a right-side second closed circuit CbR passing through the right-side first electrode 22R and the right-side second electrode 32R. At this time, the left-side first electrode 22L and the left-side second electrode 32L are set as the power supply destinations for forming the left-side second closed circuit CbL. Also, the right-side first electrode 22R and the right-side second electrode 32R are set as the power supply destinations for forming the right-side second closed circuit CbR. The left-side second closed circuit CbL is a path that passes through the control unit 48, the left-side first electrode 22L, the left-side connecting member 16L, the left-side second electrode 32L, and the body. In this embodiment, "body" includes the user's left foot and left thigh. The right-side second closed circuit CbR is a path that passes through the control unit 48, the right-side first electrode 22R, the right-side connecting member 16R, the right-side second electrode 32R, and the body. Here, "body" includes the user's right foot and right thigh. When electrical stimulation power is supplied to each of the second closed circuits CbL and CbR, the movement of the muscles along that pathway is stimulated.

[0049] In this embodiment, if there are multiple connecting members 16L and 16R corresponding to multiple mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, the power supply destination is set in this manner, provided that at least one connecting member 16L or 16R is connected to the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R.

[0050] The control unit 48 supplies electrical stimulation power to the electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R, which are the power supply destinations set in S12 (S14). In this embodiment, once the control unit 48 has finished supplying electrical stimulation power according to a predetermined operation pattern, it terminates the electrical stimulation control (S16).

[0051] The effects of the electrical stimulation device 10 described above will now be explained.

[0052] (A1) The electrical stimulator 10 of this embodiment includes a main body 12 on which a pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R are provided, each corresponding to the left and right feet, as well as mounting fixtures 14L and 14R that are attached to the user's lower body and are provided with second electrodes 32L and 32R. Therefore, in addition to the first closed circuit Ca formed by the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R, electrical stimulation power can be supplied to the second closed circuits CbL and CbR formed by the first electrodes 22L and 22R and the second electrodes 32L and 32R. The intensity of electrical stimulation to the user's muscles tends to decrease as the length of the electrical pathway in the body increases. When supplying power to the second closed circuits CbL and CbR, it is not necessary to pass both the left and right legs through the electrical pathway, compared to when supplying power to the first closed circuit Ca, so the length of the electrical pathway can be easily shortened (see Figure 4). Therefore, when power is supplied to the second closed circuit CbL and CbR, the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles on the second closed circuit CbL and CbR can be increased compared to when power is supplied to the first closed circuit Ca, thereby improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0053] (A2) In this embodiment, the second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided corresponding to the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R, respectively. Therefore, the left first electrode 22L corresponding to the left foot and the corresponding left second electrode 32L can form a left second closed circuit CbL for the left half of the body. In addition, the right first electrode 22R corresponding to the right foot and the corresponding right second electrode 32R can form a right second closed circuit CbR for the right half of the body. Therefore, when supplying power to the second closed circuits CbL and CbR, the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles on both the second closed circuits CbL and CbR can be increased compared to when supplying power to the first closed circuit Ca, thereby improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0054] (A3) The control unit 48 is mounted on the main body 12 which is placed on the floor FL, and the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are connected by connecting members 16L and 16R. Therefore, even without mounting the control unit 48 on the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, electrical stimulation power can be supplied to the second electrodes 32L and 32R of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R via the connecting members 16L and 16R. As a result, the weight of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R can be reduced, and the user can move around more easily even when the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are attached.

[0055] (B) The control unit 48 sets the power supply destination from among the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, 32R depending on whether or not the main bodies 12, 14L, 14R are connected by the connecting members 16L, 16R, and supplies power to the set electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, 32R. Therefore, when changing the power supply destination from among the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, 32R, it is not necessary to operate the operating sections 28A, 28B of the main body 12, resulting in good usability.

[0056] Next, we will describe other features of the electrical stimulation device 10.

[0057] Refer to Figures 7 and 8. The configuration of the left second electrode 32L and the left mounting bracket 14L is largely the same as the configuration of the right second electrode 32R and the right mounting bracket 14R. Here, we will explain this common configuration using Figures 7 and 8, which show the former.

[0058] The second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided on the back surfaces of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. In this embodiment, the second electrodes 32L and 32R constitute an electrode pad that is applied to the skin surface of the body. The second electrodes 32L and 32R form a sheet shape as a whole.

[0059] The second electrodes 32L and 32R each have a base material 32a, a conductive portion 32b, an adhesive portion 32c, and a fixing portion 32d. The base material 32a is a sheet made of, for example, a resin such as PET. The conductive portion 32b is made of, for example, a conductive material such as silver paste. The conductive portion 32b is provided on the side of the base material 32a opposite to the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R.

[0060] The adhesive portion 32c is provided on the side opposite to the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R relative to the conductive portion 32b. The adhesive portion 32c is provided on the back surface of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. The adhesive portion 32c is detachably attached to the body. The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are attached to the body via the adhesive portion 32c. The adhesive portion 32c in this embodiment is conductive and is electrically connected to the conductive portion 32b by a conductive adhesive or the like. When the adhesive portion 32c of the second electrodes 32L and 32R is attached to the body, electrical connection is made between the conductive portion 32b and the skin surface of the body via the adhesive portion 32c. The adhesive portion 32c in this embodiment is made of an adhesive gel. This makes it difficult for the second electrodes 32L and 32R to shift position relative to the skin surface.

[0061] The mounting fixtures 14L and 14R have a fixed portion 50 to which the fixing portion 32d of the second electrode 32L and 32R is detachably fixed. In this embodiment, the fixing portion 32d and the fixed portion 50 constitute a snap button, combining a male snap and a female snap. The fixed portion 50 is integrated with the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R by sewing or the like. The second electrodes 32L and 32R are electrically connected to the control unit 48 via connecting members 16L, 16R, etc., which are connected to the fixed portion 50 of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R.

[0062] The muscles in the legs are highly susceptible to electrical stimulation and also easily moved by ankle movement. These factors combine to create a significant risk that simply attaching the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R to the body via the adhesive portion 32c would cause the adhesive portion 32c to detach from the body due to the movement of the leg muscles. In this embodiment, the second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided on belt-shaped mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. Therefore, by wrapping the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R around the body, the risk of the adhesive portion 32c detaching from the body is significantly reduced. Consequently, it becomes easier to maintain contact between the second electrodes 32L and 32R and the body, stabilizing the electrical conductivity of the second electrodes 32L and 32R to the body.

[0063] Preferably, the belt-shaped attachments 14L and 14R are elastic in the longitudinal direction. This can be achieved by constructing the attachments 14L and 14R from an elastic material, or by providing the attachments 14L and 14R with an elastic section such as a bellows structure. As a result, the attachments 14L and 14R expand and contract in accordance with the movement of the leg muscles, making it easier to maintain contact between the second electrodes 32L and 32R and the body.

[0064] The back fabric member 54 of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R is preferably made of an airtight material. This material may be, for example, a polyurethane film or chloroprene rubber. This makes it easier for sweat from the body to accumulate on the back of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. Consequently, the skin surface at the point where the second electrodes 32L and 32R come into contact with the body becomes more moist, and the conductivity of the second electrodes 32L and 32R to the body improves.

[0065] The back fabric member 54 of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R may be configured to have higher elasticity than the front fabric member 52. To achieve this, the back fabric member 54 may be configured to have a higher elongation rate [%] than the front fabric member 52. Here, elongation rate refers to the ratio of the deformed dimension to the original dimension in the direction in which a predetermined load is applied. To adjust the elasticity of the front fabric member 52 and the back fabric member 54, for example, the weaving method of the fabric constituting the front fabric member 52 and the back fabric member 54 or the Young's modulus of the fabric material may be changed.

[0066] As a result, when the attachments 14L and 14R attempt to stretch and contract in accordance with the movement of the body's muscles, the back fabric member 54 deforms more significantly while the deformation of the front fabric member 52 is suppressed, compared to the case where the elasticity of the back fabric member 54 is the same as that of the front fabric member 52. Consequently, changes in design and wrinkles caused by the deformation of the front fabric member 52 are suppressed, making it easier to avoid situations where the user feels uncomfortable due to such occurrences. In addition, by suppressing changes in the appearance of the front fabric member 52, it becomes easier to grasp the movement of the body's muscles in its vicinity, and it becomes easier to understand how the body is moving in response to electrical stimulation.

[0067] (Second Embodiment) Refer to Figure 9. Of the inventive features of the electrical stimulation device 10 of the first embodiment, those not shown in the following figures are the same as those of the first embodiment in subsequent embodiments.

[0068] The electrical stimulator 10 of the second embodiment includes a heater 60. The heater 60 of this embodiment is mounted on the main body 12. The heater 60 is, for example, a sheathed heater, a cartridge heater, etc. The heater 60 of this embodiment is positioned to heat the contact points of the user's body on the main body 12 when applying electrical stimulation to the user's muscles. In this embodiment, these "contact points" are the electrodes 22L and 22R of the main body 12. Alternatively, in this embodiment, these "contact points" are the footrests 18L and 18R of the main body 12. In this position, the heater 60 of this embodiment is positioned inside the main body 12 on the back side of the footrests 18L and 18R (first electrodes 22L and 22R).

[0069] This allows the heater 60 to warm a part of the body in contact with the main unit 12, thereby promoting blood flow in that area. Consequently, the blood vessels in that area become more easily dilated, and the electrical resistance when current flows through those vessels becomes easier to reduce. As a result, the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles surrounding the heated area can be increased, improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0070] The heater 60 may also be mounted on the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. In this case as well, when applying electrical stimulation to the user's muscles, the heater 60 may heat the contact points of the user's body on the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R.

[0071] (Third embodiment) Refer to Figure 10. The electrical stimulation device 10 of the third embodiment includes light sources 62L and 62R mounted on the main body 12. In this embodiment, the light sources 62L and 62R are mounted on the main body 12, but they may also be mounted on mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. The light sources 62L and 62R serve to notify the operation of the electrical stimulation device 10. The light sources 62L and 62R are, for example, LEDs, discharge lamps, incandescent bulbs, etc. In this embodiment, the light sources 62L and 62R are provided in a position on the upper surface of the main body 12 where their illumination state can be visually confirmed.

[0072] The housing 24 of the main body 12 is provided with peripheral portions 64L and 64R around the periphery of the first electrodes 22L and 22R (footrest portions 18L and 18R). Peripheral portions 64L and 64R include a left peripheral portion 64L provided around the periphery of the left first electrode 22L and a right peripheral portion 64R provided around the periphery of the right first electrode 22R. The light sources 62L and 62R of this embodiment include a left light source 62L corresponding to the left first electrode 22L and a right light source 62R corresponding to the right first electrode 22R. The left light source 62L is provided on the left peripheral portion 64L of the main body 12, and the right light source 62R is provided on the right peripheral portion 64R of the main body 12.

[0073] The light sources 62L and 62R are positioned on lines along the peripheral edges 64L and 64R of the main body 12. In this embodiment, the individual light sources 62L and 62R are provided continuously on the line, but they may also be provided discretely at intervals along the line.

[0074] The control unit 48 (not shown) controls the lighting state of the light sources 62L and 62R in conjunction with the supply of electrical stimulation power to the first electrodes 22L and 22R of the main unit 12. Specifically, when power is supplied to the first electrodes 22L and 22R, the light sources 62L and 62R corresponding to those first electrodes 22L and 22R are lit. When power is supplied to the left first electrode 22L, the left light source 62L corresponding to the left first electrode 22L is lit. When power is supplied to the right first electrode 22R, the right light source 62R corresponding to the right first electrode 22R is lit. In this way, the light sources 62L and 62R may be kept lit continuously or they may be blinked.

[0075] This allows the user to visually confirm the illumination of the light sources 62L and 62R, thereby understanding that the electrical stimulation device 10 is being supplied with electrical stimulation power to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R.

[0076] The control unit 48 may control the lighting state of the light sources 62L and 62R in conjunction with the output level of the electrical stimulation power. For example, consider the case where the light sources 62L and 62R, whose light intensity can be changed, are used. In this case, the control unit 48 may increase the light intensity of the light sources 62L and 62R as the output level increases, and decrease the light intensity of the light sources 62L and 62R as the output level decreases.

[0077] In addition, consider the case where light sources 62L and 62R, whose wavelengths in the visible range can be changed, are used. In this case, the control unit 48 may move the wavelengths of the light sources 62L and 62R closer to one end of the wavelength range as the output level increases, and move the wavelengths of the light sources 62L and 62R closer to the other end of the wavelength range as the output level decreases.

[0078] In addition, the control unit 48 may move the blinking speed of the light sources 62L and 62R closer to one end of the variable range (for example, the side that slows them down) as the output level increases, and closer to the other end of the variable range (for example, the side that speeds them up) as they decrease.

[0079] This allows the operating status of the electrical stimulator 10 to be determined by visually observing the lighting status of the light sources 62L and 62R, thereby allowing the intensity of the electrical stimulation applied by the electrical stimulator 10 to be understood.

[0080] Alternatively, the control unit 48 may control the light sources 62L and 62R in the same way as the output level, in conjunction with the frequency of the electrical stimulation power, as an alternative to the output level.

[0081] (Fourth embodiment) Refer to Figure 11. The electrical stimulation device 10 of the fourth embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the configuration of the attachments 14L and 14R. Specifically, the attachments 14L and 14R of this embodiment are footwear 66 that are attached by being worn on the user's feet. In this embodiment, socks are shown as an example of this footwear 66. In this figure, only the footwear 66 that constitutes the right attachment 14R is shown, but the left attachment 14L is also composed of footwear 66.

[0082] The footwear 66 of this embodiment includes a sole portion 66a that covers the entire sole of the user's foot, an upper portion 66b that covers the user's instep, a heel portion 66c that covers the user's heel from both sides and the rear, and a thigh portion 66d that covers the user's thigh.

[0083] A conductive portion 66e is provided on the bottom 66a of the footwear 66. In Figure 11, the area that will be the conductive portion 66e is hatched. The conductive portion 66e is made of a conductive material such as conductive fibers. The user's foot Ft is electrically connected to the first electrodes 22L and 22R via the conductive portion 66e of the footwear 66.

[0084] The parts of the footwear 66 that are different from the sole 66a constitute the insulating part 66f. The insulating part 66f is made of an insulating material such as insulating fibers. In this embodiment, the insulating part 66f is made up of the upper cover part 66b, heel cover part 66c, and thigh cover part 66d of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R.

[0085] In this embodiment, the second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided inside the thigh covering portion 66d of the footwear 66. The second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided in a location different from the bottom portion 66a of the footwear 66. It can also be said that the second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided inside the insulating portion 66f of the footwear 66. In this embodiment, the second electrodes 32L and 32R are annular in shape so as to contact the thigh of the body over an entire circumference. It can also be said that the second electrodes 32L and 32R are shaped to contact the thigh of the body over an area of ​​more than half a circumference. This makes it easier to form a closed circuit that passes over a wide area of ​​the thigh of the body below the contact position of the second electrodes 32L and 32R with the body.

[0086] The connecting members 16L and 16R are detachably connected to the footwear 66 via a second connector 68. The second connector 68 is provided at the ends of the electrical cables 34 of the connecting members 16L and 16R, and the footwear 66 is provided with a second receiving portion 70 to which the connecting members 16L and 16R are connected via the second connector 68. In this embodiment, the second connector 68 is a male snap, and the second receiving portion 70 is a female snap, and these constitute a snap button. The second receiving portion 70 is integrated with the footwear 66 by sewing or the like. The second electrodes 32L and 32R are electrically connected to a control unit 48 (not shown) via the second receiving portion 70 and the connecting members 16L and 16R of the footwear 66.

[0087] The effects described above (A1) to (A3) and (B) can also be obtained with the electrical stimulation device 10 described above.

[0088] (C) In addition, the user can use the electrical stimulator 10 without having to take off their shoes 66, eliminating the need to remove their footwear. Furthermore, depending on the environment in which the electrical stimulator 10 is used, the user may be restricted from going barefoot, but even in such cases, the user can still use the electrical stimulator 10.

[0089] Preferably, the footwear 66 described above is made of a highly airtight and flexible material such as polyurethane. This increases the heat retention and moisture retention of the footwear 66, increases the amount of skin moisture in the area where the footwear 66 (socks) is worn, and reduces electrical resistance in that area. Consequently, the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles in the area where the footwear 66 is worn can be increased, improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0090] Furthermore, when the second electrodes 32L and 32R are provided on the thigh covering portion 66d of the footwear 66, their shape is not particularly limited. For example, the second electrodes 32L and 32R may be shaped to contact the thigh of the body over an area of ​​less than half a circumference.

[0091] (Fifth embodiment) Refer to Figures 12, 13, and 14. The electrical stimulation device 10 of this embodiment differs mainly in the configuration of the main body 12. The main body 12 includes a housing 24 that forms a housing space 72 for accommodating the user's left and right feet. The housing 24 is made of a hard synthetic resin or the like. In this embodiment, the housing space 72 can accommodate not only the user's feet but also a part of the thigh. The aforementioned pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R form the housing space 72 of the main body 12. The aforementioned pair of footrests 18L and 18R are similar.

[0092] A pair of insertion openings 74 for inserting the user's feet are formed on the upper rear surface of the housing 24. An opening 76 is formed on the rear surface of the housing 24, continuous with each of the insertion openings 74. The main body 12 is equipped with a cover body 78 that covers the openings 76 of the housing 24. The cover body 78 is made of a synthetic resin or fiber that is softer than the housing 24. The cover body 78 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism 80, such as a wire fastener, which allows the cover body 78 to be opened and closed. Opening the cover body 78 with the opening / closing mechanism 80 makes it easier to insert the feet into the storage space 72 of the main body 12. After inserting the feet into the storage space 72 of the main body 12, closing the cover body 78 with the opening / closing mechanism 80 makes it easier to block the airflow between the storage space 72 and the outside space.

[0093] The electrical stimulation device 10 of this embodiment further includes a germicidal lamp 82 that irradiates germicidal light into the containment space 72. The germicidal light is light in a wavelength range that has a germicidal effect, such as ultraviolet light. The germicidal lamp 82 of this embodiment is located on the back side of the footrests 18L and 18R of the main body 12 and inside the main body 12. The footrests 18L and 18R of the main body 12 of this embodiment are provided with light-transmitting sections 84 that can transmit germicidal light. The light-transmitting section 84 of this embodiment is a through-hole that penetrates the footrests 18L and 18R. The light-transmitting section 84 may also be made of a light-transmitting material that can transmit germicidal light. This makes it possible to irradiate the soles of the feet Ft placed on the footrests 18L and 18R with germicidal light.

[0094] As a result, even if the feet sweat during training using the electrical stimulation device 10, the germicidal lamp 82 can suppress the growth of bacteria caused by that sweat, thus ensuring good hygiene. In addition, users can use the device with peace of mind without having to worry too much about hygiene.

[0095] Furthermore, since the germicidal light is irradiated into the housing space 72 of the main unit 12, it is less likely for the germicidal light to leak out of the main unit 12. As a result, it is possible to avoid seeing the germicidal light with the naked eye, reducing the strain on the user's eyes. In addition, because the germicidal light is less likely to leak out of the main unit 12, there is the advantage that it is easier to increase the output of the germicidal lamp 82.

[0096] The germicidal lamp 82 may be positioned to irradiate germicidal light onto parts of the body other than the soles of the feet placed on the footrests 18L and 18R. These parts of the body refer to the parts housed in the storage space 72 of the main body 12. These parts of the body include, for example, the instep and heel of the foot, as well as the lower leg, etc.

[0097] Furthermore, the germicidal lamp 82 may be positioned to irradiate germicidal light throughout the entire containment space 72. In this case, germicidal light will irradiate the entire portion of the body contained within the containment space 72 that is exposed within the containment space 72. In any case, the germicidal lamp 82 can irradiate germicidal light to the feet contained within the containment space 72.

[0098] The control unit 48 of the electrical stimulator 10 may control the germicidal lamp 82 to irradiate germicidal light in conjunction with the supply of electrical stimulation power to the multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R. Specifically, germicidal light may be irradiated while electrical stimulation power is being supplied, or germicidal light may be irradiated for a predetermined period of time after the supply of electrical stimulation power is completed.

[0099] In this embodiment, the mounting brackets 14L and 14R are attached to the user's body within the housing space 72 of the main body 12. In this embodiment, "user's body" refers to the user's lower leg. Furthermore, the connecting members 16L and 16R in this embodiment are arranged to pass only inside the main body 12, without passing outside of it. This arrangement ensures that at least the housing space 72 of the main body 12 is passed through. As a result, the mounting brackets 14L and 14R and the connecting members 16L and 16R are not exposed outside the main body 12, resulting in an electrical stimulation device 10 with a clean and neat appearance.

[0100] (Sixth Embodiment) Refer to Figure 15. The electrical stimulation device 10 of this embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in terms of the mounting fixtures 14L, 14R and the connecting members 16L, 16R. The mounting fixtures 14L, 14R of this embodiment are attached to the user's body outside the housing space 72 of the main body 12. In this embodiment, "user's body" refers to the user's upper leg. The connecting members 16L, 16R of this embodiment are located outside the main body 12.

[0101] Thus, when the main body 12 is provided with a storage space 72, the positions of the mounting fixtures 14L, 14R and the connecting members 16L, 16R are not particularly limited.

[0102] (Seventh Embodiment) Refer to Figure 16. The electrical stimulation device 10 of this embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that it includes an air blower 86. The air blower 86 includes a heat exchanger 88 that changes the temperature of air taken in from outside the main body 12, and a fan 90 that supplies the air whose temperature has been changed by the heat exchanger 88 into the containment space 72. The heat exchanger 88 of this embodiment is capable of heating the outside air, and the fan 90 supplies the heated air into the containment space 72.

[0103] This makes it easier to evenly heat the housing space 72 of the main unit 12, making it easier to use the electrical stimulator 10 in low-temperature environments. In particular, if the user's lower legs can be housed in the housing space 72 of the main unit 12, the user's legs can be heated up to below the knees. Consequently, the blood vessels in the heated area become more easily dilated, and the electrical resistance when current flows through those blood vessels becomes easier to reduce. As a result, the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles surrounding the heated area can be increased, improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0104] By warming the containment space 72 of the main unit 12, the moisture content of the skin in the area where the device is housed increases, thereby reducing electrical resistance in that area. Consequently, the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles in the area housed within the containment space 72 can be increased, improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0105] In addition, the heat exchanger 88 may also be capable of cooling external air. In this case, the fan 90 supplies cooled air into the containment space 72. This makes it easier to cool the containment space 72 of the main body 12 evenly, making it easier to use the electrical stimulation device 10 in high-temperature environments.

[0106] In addition, the air blower 86 may be configured without a heat exchanger 88. This allows the user to feel cool by blowing air onto their feet in the housing space 72 of the main body 12, making the electrical stimulation device 10 easier to use in high-temperature environments.

[0107] (Operation pattern) An example of the operation pattern of the electrical stimulation device 10 is described below. The operation pattern described below is merely an example and is not limited to it. Refer to Figure 17. This operation pattern is performed by sequentially going through the modes (A) to (C) described below. Each mode is a combination of the operation indicated by "Status" in Figure 17 and the operation indicated by "Interval," and these are performed in order from the top row. (A) Warm-up mode (B) Training mode (C) Cooldown mode

[0108] The operation indicated by "Status" is a predetermined cycle of operation repeated for the number of cycles specified for the row to which each "Status" belongs. This predetermined cycle is the operation of performing the operations of multiple rows to which "Status" belongs, starting from the top row. This "multiple row operation" is the operation of supplying alternating current to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R at the frequency specified for the row and for the duration specified for the same row.

[0109] The operation indicated by "Interval" is the operation of stopping the supply of alternating current to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R for the duration of the "required time" in the row to which each "Interval" belongs in Figure 17.

[0110] For example, in "Training Mode" under "Status 2," one cycle consists of supplying alternating current to multiple electrodes 22L, 22R, 32L, and 32R in the order described in (a) and (b) below, and this cycle is repeated 50 times. (a) AC current with a frequency of 20 Hz and a duration of 4 seconds (b) AC current with a frequency of 4 Hz and a duration of 2 seconds

[0111] Figure 17 mainly shows operating patterns combining the following alternating currents (1), (2), and (3). (1) is an alternating current suitable for relaxing muscles. (2) is an alternating current suitable for muscle training. (3) is an alternating current suitable for providing a sensory experience through electrical stimulation. Figure 17 shows the operating mode for muscle training, which combines the alternating currents of (2). (1) Alternating current in a predetermined frequency band (less than 15 Hz) suitable for inducing muscle contractions. (2) Alternating current in a predetermined frequency band (15Hz to 25Hz) suitable for inducing incomplete tetanus in the muscles. (3) Alternating current in a predetermined frequency band (around 60 Hz) suitable for promoting complete tetanus in the muscles.

[0112] In addition to the above, the operation pattern shown in Figure 18 may also be used. Figure 18 is an operation pattern that combines (1) and (3) described above. In Figure 18, the operation mode for healthcare mainly uses the alternating current of (1) and does not use the alternating current of (2).

[0113] The present invention has been described above based on embodiments. Next, modified examples of each component will be described.

[0114] Although an example has been described in which the pair of footrests 18L and 18R are provided on the same component that makes up the main body 12, they may also be provided on separate components that make up the main body 12.

[0115] In relation to the effects (A1) to (A3) described above, the attachments 14L and 14R only need to be attached to the user's lower body. For example, the attachments 14L and 14R may be attached to the user's waist in addition to their thighs. Also, in the examples of Figure 4(B) and Figure 19 (described later), the attachments 14L and 14R are attached to the upper thighs of both legs. In addition, the attachments 14L and 14R may be attached to either the shins or ankles of both legs, that is, to the lower legs of both legs.

[0116] In relation to the aforementioned effect (B), the main unit 12 may be attached to the user. That is, the main unit 12 may be placed on the floor or attached to the user. In relation to effect (B), the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R may be attached to a part of the user other than the lower body, i.e., the upper body.

[0117] The number of mounting brackets 14L and 14R is not particularly limited. There may be one mounting bracket 14L or 14R, or three or more.

[0118] The manner in which the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are attached to the body is not particularly limited. This attachment method may include, for example, wrapping, hooking, or attaching. The shape of the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R is not particularly limited. For example, they may be planar structures that can be attached only to the front or rear of the user.

[0119] Although an example has been described in which a pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R are provided on the main body 12, three or more first electrodes 22L and 22R may also be provided.

[0120] Although the first electrodes 22L and 22R are described as being part of the footrests 18L and 18R, they may be provided separately from the footrests 18L and 18R. For example, a pad covering the instep of the foot may be provided on the main body 12 above the footrests 18L and 18R, and the first electrodes 22L and 22R may be provided on this pad. Alternatively, a pad covering the heel of the foot from the rear may be provided behind the footrests 18L and 18R, and the first electrodes 22L and 22R may be provided on this pad.

[0121] The number of second electrodes 32L and 32R provided on the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R is not limited; only one second electrode 32L or 32R may be provided, or three or more second electrodes 32L and 32R may be provided.

[0122] Multiple second electrodes 32L, 32R corresponding to multiple first electrodes 22L, 22R may be provided on a single mounting fixture 14L, 14R, or on individual mounting fixtures 14L, 14R.

[0123] Although an example has been described in which the adhesive portion 32c of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R is provided on the second electrodes 32L and 32R, it may be provided in a location other than the second electrodes 32L and 32R. For example, it may be provided on the back surface of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R in a location other than the second electrodes 32L and 32R. The same applies when the first electrodes 22L and 22R are provided on the main body 12.

[0124] Although the connecting members 16L and 16R are described in an example where they are detachably connected to the main body 12, they may also be detachably connected to the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, or to both main bodies 12, 14L, and 14R. Although the connecting members 16L and 16R are described in an example where they are equipped with an electrical cable 34, they may also be equipped with a component other than the electrical cable 34. This "component other than the electrical cable 34" may be, for example, a controller on which the control unit 48 is mounted. In this case, the connecting members 16L and 16R may be equipped with an electrical cable connecting the controller to the main body 12, an electrical cable connecting the controller to the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, and the controller itself.

[0125] Multiple connecting members 16L, 16R corresponding to multiple mounting fixtures 14L, 14R may be connected to the main body 12 via a single first connector 36.

[0126] Although the power supply 40 is described as being housed in the main unit 12, it may also be housed in the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, or it may be provided outside of the main unit 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R. The power supply 40 may also consist of an external power supply, such as a commercial power supply, provided separately from the electrical stimulation device 10.

[0127] The control unit 48 may be mounted on the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R, or it may be mounted on a component separate from the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R.

[0128] The control unit 48 may independently change the output level of the electrical stimulation power for each of the multiple closed circuits. For example, it may be possible to independently change the output level for the left second closed circuit CbL and the right second closed circuit CbR as described above. In this case, the electrical stimulation device 10 may include an operating unit to switch the closed circuit whose output level is to be changed.

[0129] Next, other variations of the electrical stimulation device 10 will be described.

[0130] The electrical stimulator 10 may also include other control units that switch the power supply 40 from off to on when the contact detection unit 44 detects that the user's body has come into contact with the pair of first electrodes 22L and 22R. In this case, an auxiliary power supply separate from the aforementioned power supply 40 can be installed in the main unit 12, and the contact detection unit 44 and other control units can operate based on this auxiliary power supply. This eliminates the need to operate the main unit's control units 28A and 28B, resulting in improved usability. In particular, since there is no need to operate the main unit's control units 28A and 28B, there is no need to squat down to reach the main unit 12, resulting in improved usability. Furthermore, since such squatting is unnecessary, the possibility of misalignment of the foot's contact position with the first electrodes 22L and 22R of the main unit 12 can be reduced, and the conductivity between the first electrodes 22L and 22R and the foot can be stabilized.

[0131] The electrical stimulator 10 may be equipped with a notification unit that notifies the operation of the electrical stimulator 10 by sound. This notification unit may be, for example, a speaker. The notification unit may also notify that the electrical stimulator 10 has started electrical stimulation control or has finished electrical stimulation control. In addition, it may also notify that input has been received to the operation units 28A and 28B of the electrical stimulator 10.

[0132] Operation of the electrical stimulator 10 may be performed through operation of a remote controller. The remote controller may be dedicated to the electrical stimulator 10, or it may be a general-purpose information processing terminal incorporating an application that can operate the electrical stimulator 10.

[0133] When the electrical stimulator 10 is attached to the body, the main body 12 and attachment fixtures 14L and 14R may be equipped with a conductive material placed separately between the electrodes and the body. The conductive material may be, for example, conductive fibers or conductive rubber. When attaching the main body 12, 14L, and 14R to the body, the electrodes are pressed against the body via the conductive material, thereby improving the adhesion and wearability of the main body 12, 14L, and 14R to the body.

[0134] The main body 12 and attachments 14L and 14R of the electrical stimulation device 10 do not necessarily have to be directly attached to the user's body when attached to the body. For example, the user may wear underwear over their body, and conductive material may be partially applied to the underwear where the electrodes of the main body 12 and attachments 14L and 14R make contact, and the main body 12 and attachments 14L and 14R may be attached to the underwear. This allows the user to train without removing their underwear.

[0135] When using the electrical stimulator 10, the user may wear footwear such as socks made of conductive material such as conductive fibers and place their feet on the first electrodes 22L and 22R of the main unit 12. This will allow the effect described in (C) above to be obtained.

[0136] By changing the position of the second electrodes 32L and 32R on the body, the sensation of electrical stimulation can be varied in various ways. When the second electrodes 32L and 32R are applied to the front of the upper thigh, strong electrical stimulation can be applied to the quadriceps femoris muscle. When the second electrodes 32L and 32R are applied to the front of the lower leg, assuming that the first electrodes 22L and 22R of the main unit 12 are applied to the foot, strong electrical stimulation can be applied to the muscles in the area from the shin to the foot. When the second electrodes 32L and 32R are applied to the back of the upper thigh, strong electrical stimulation can be applied to the hamstrings. When the second electrodes 32L and 32R are applied to the back of the lower leg, assuming that the first electrodes 22L and 22R of the main unit 12 are applied to the foot, strong electrical stimulation can be applied to the muscles in the area from the calf to the foot. When the second electrodes 32L and 32R are applied to the calf of the lower leg, strong electrical stimulation can be applied to the calf muscles, and when applied to the shin of the lower leg, strong electrical stimulation can be applied to the shin muscles.

[0137] Refer to Figure 19. Figure 19 shows a third usage scenario of the electrical stimulation device 10 of the first embodiment. In the third usage scenario, the first electrodes 22L and 22R of the main body 12 are not used, and the second electrodes 32L and 32R of the attachments 14L and 14R are used. In the third usage scenario, as in the second usage scenario, the attachments 14L and 14R are attached to the user's body. As a result, the second electrodes 32L and 32R of the attachments 14L and 14R are applied to the user's body.

[0138] In the third usage scenario, the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are connected by connecting members 16L and 16R. In the third usage scenario, power is supplied to multiple second electrodes 32L and 32R to form a third closed circuit Cc that passes through the multiple second electrodes 32L and 32R. This third closed circuit Cc does not pass through the multiple first electrodes 22L and 22R, but passes through the control unit 48, the left second electrode 32L, the right second electrode 32R, and the body. In this embodiment, "body" includes the left thigh, waist, and right thigh.

[0139] In forming the third closed circuit Cc, in S12 of Figure 6, the control unit 48 may set the power supply destination as follows. In both the second usage scene (see Figure 4(B)) and the third usage scene, the main body 12 and the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are connected by connecting members 16L and 16R. Given this condition, the control unit 48 sets the power supply destination in S12 to form one of the second closed circuits CbL, CbR, or the third closed circuit Cc.

[0140] The electrode to which power will be supplied may be selected by the user through operation of the operating section of the electrical stimulator 10 (for example, operating sections 28A, 28B). In this case, the user selects the electrode to which power will be supplied from among the electrodes corresponding to any of the second closed circuits CbL, CbR, and third closed circuit Cc. This electrode to which power will be supplied may be selected in advance by the user before starting electrical stimulation control. In addition, the control unit 48 may request an electrode to be selected by the user after starting electrical stimulation control. When forming the second closed circuits CbL and CbR, the first electrodes 22L and 22R and the second electrodes 32L and 32R are set as the electrodes to which power will be supplied, corresponding to the second closed circuits CbL and CbR. When forming the third closed circuit Cc, the second electrodes 32L and 32R are set as the electrodes to which power will be supplied, corresponding to the third closed circuit Cc.

[0141] Any combination of the above components is also valid as an embodiment of the present invention. For example, any explanatory details of a modification may be combined with an embodiment, or any explanatory details of an embodiment or other modification may be combined with a modification. An example of such a combination is described below.

[0142] The heater 60 of the second embodiment, the light sources 62L and 62R of the third embodiment, the socks of the fourth embodiment, the germicidal lamp 82 of the fifth embodiment, and the blower unit 86 of the seventh embodiment may be combined with the electrical stimulator 10 of the other embodiments. Furthermore, the electrical stimulator 10 of the fifth and seventh embodiments may be used without the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R and the second electrodes 32L and 32R.

[0143] Let's consider the case where the heater 60 of the second embodiment is combined with the main body 12 of the fifth embodiment. This main body 12 includes a housing 24 that forms a containment space 72. In this case, the heater 60 may be positioned in a location that can heat the containment space 72 of the main body 12. Even in this case, a part of the body inside the containment space 72 can be warmed by the heater 60, and blood flow in the body can be promoted in the warmed area. Accordingly, as described above, it becomes easier to increase the intensity of electrical stimulation to the muscles around the warmed area, thereby improving the sensation of electrical stimulation.

[0144] In addition to this combination, consider the case where the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R are attached to the user's body within the housing space 72 of the main body 12, as in the fifth embodiment. In this case as well, the heater 60 may be positioned in a location that can heat the housing space 72 of the main body 12. In this case, the second electrodes 32L and 32R of the mounting fixtures 14L and 14R can also be heated by the heater 60. If the second electrodes 32L and 32R, which are at a lower temperature than the body, are in contact with the body for a long period of time, there is a risk that the user will experience discomfort due to the cold. With this configuration, the temperature difference with the body can be reduced by warming the second electrodes 32L and 32R, making it easier to avoid situations where the user experiences discomfort due to the cold.

[0145] The embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described in detail above. The embodiments and modifications described above are merely examples of how to implement the present invention. The content of the embodiments and modifications does not limit the technical scope of the present invention, and many design changes, such as changes, additions, and deletions of components, are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. In the embodiments described above, the content in which such design changes are possible is emphasized with the notation "embodiment," but design changes are also permitted in content without such notation. The hatching applied to the cross-section in the drawings does not limit the material to which the hatching is applied.

[0146] By abstracting the above embodiments and variations, we can grasp the technical ideas described in the following sections.

[0147] (Item 1) An electrical stimulator for applying electrical stimulation to a user's muscles, comprising: a main body; a plurality of first electrodes provided on the main body; a mounting device attached to the user's body; a second electrode provided on the mounting device; a control unit for controlling the electrical stimulation power supplied from a power source to the plurality of first electrodes and the second electrodes; and a connecting member for connecting the main body and the mounting device and transmitting the power, wherein the connecting member is detachably connected to at least one of the main body and the mounting device, and the control unit sets the destination for the power supply from among the plurality of first electrodes and the second electrodes depending on whether the main body and the mounting device are connected by the connecting member, and supplies the power to the set electrode.

[0148] The technical challenges related to this section are as follows:

[0149] The inventors of this application recognized that there is room for improvement in terms of usability when applying electrical stimulation using electrodes on multiple main units.

[0150] The technical ideas described in this section were developed in light of these challenges, and one of their objectives is to provide an electrical stimulation device that offers good usability. [Industrial applicability]

[0151] This invention relates to an electrical stimulation device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0152] 10...Electrical stimulator, 12...Main unit, 14L, 14R...Mounting bracket, 16L, 14R...Connecting member, 22L, 22R...First electrode, 32L, 32R...Second electrode, 40...Power supply, 46...Connection detection unit, 48...Control unit.

Claims

[Claim 1] An electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to the user's muscles, The main unit that can be attached by the user, A pair of first electrodes are provided on the main body, each corresponding to the left or right half of the user's body, and are applied to the corresponding half of the body. A belt-shaped left-side attachment device is provided separately from the main body and is attached to the user's lower left side by being wrapped around the body. A belt-shaped right-side attachment device is provided separately from the main body and is attached to the user's lower right side by being wrapped around the body. A pair of second electrodes provided on the left-side mounting bracket and the right-side mounting bracket, The system comprises a control unit that controls the electrical stimulation power supplied from a power source to the pair of first electrodes and the pair of second electrodes, The left-side mounting bracket and the right-side mounting bracket are equipped with a fabric member facing the user's body, The aforementioned fabric component is an electrical stimulation device made of an airtight material.

Images