Biostimulator

Abstract

The act of introducing new stimuli or changes to a living organism. [Solution] The biostimulator according to this disclosure comprises an electrode that applies a stimulation signal to a living organism. The stimulation signal includes a normal period and an enhancement period. The normal period and the enhancement period each contain a pulse group composed of multiple pulses, with a period that allows the living organism to perform muscle movement. The enhancement period is characterized in that, compared to the normal period, the amplitude of the pulse group is larger, and at least one of the generation period and frequency of the pulse group is different.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a biological stimulation device.

Background Art

[0002] A biological stimulation device that applies a current to a living body from a conductor applied to the living body to give a stimulus is known. Patent Document 1 describes that a rectangular wave pulse group having a predetermined time width appears alternately positive and negative for each period. Further, Patent Document 1 describes that when a constant stimulation signal is repeatedly applied to a living body, the living body becomes accustomed to the stimulation signal, so a strong stimulation signal having a rectangular wave pulse group with a larger amplitude than usual is applied to the living body to prevent the living body from becoming accustomed to the stimulation signal.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1, since only the amplitude of the stimulation signal is changed, the change in the stimulus is limited.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to apply a new change in stimulus to a living body.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The main first invention for achieving the above object is equipped with a conductor that applies a stimulation signal to a living body, the stimulation signal is provided with a normal period and an emphasized period, The normal period and the enhanced period each include a group of positive pulses consisting of multiple positive pulses and a group of negative pulses consisting of multiple negative pulses, each with a period that allows the living organism to perform muscle movement. The positive pulse group and the negative pulse group are generated alternately. The group of positive pulses and the group of negative pulses are collectively referred to as a pulse group. The generation period of the pulse group is defined as the time from the rising edge of the first positive pulse to the falling edge of the last positive pulse among the multiple positive pulses constituting the positive pulse group, or the time from the falling edge of the first negative pulse to the rising edge of the last negative pulse among the multiple negative pulses constituting the negative pulse group. During the normal period, the generation period of the pulse group is constant. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse group is larger compared to the aforementioned normal period, and the generation period of the pulse group is also larger. The gap Unlike, During the aforementioned enhancement period, the generation period of the pulse group The gap It gradually changed, The generation period of the pulse group at the beginning or end of the enhancement period is shorter than the generation period of the pulse group in the normal period. The biostimulation device is characterized in that the generation period of the other pulse group at the beginning and end of the enhancement period is longer than the generation period of the pulse group during the normal period. Furthermore, the main second invention for achieving the above objective is, Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The aforementioned stimulus signal includes a normal period and an enhancement period. The normal period and the enhanced period each include a group of positive pulses consisting of multiple positive pulses and a group of negative pulses consisting of multiple negative pulses, each with a period that allows the living organism to perform muscle movement. The positive pulse group and the negative pulse group are generated alternately. The group of positive pulses and the group of negative pulses are collectively referred to as a pulse group. The frequency of the pulse group is defined as the number of positive pulses or negative pulses per unit time. During the normal period, the pulse group around wave NumberIt is constant, During the aforementioned enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse group is larger compared to the aforementioned normal period, The pulse group frequency Number Unlike, During the aforementioned emphasis period, The pulse group frequency Number It gradually changed, At the start and end of the aforementioned emphasis period The pulse group The frequency is during the normal period mentioned above. The pulse group Lower than the frequency of, The other of the start and end times of the aforementioned emphasis period The pulse group The frequency is during the normal period mentioned above. The pulse group This biostimulation device is characterized by having a frequency higher than [a certain frequency]. Furthermore, the main third invention for achieving the above objective is: Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The aforementioned stimulus signal includes a normal period and an enhancement period. The normal period and the enhanced period each contain pulses with a frequency that allows the living organism to perform muscle exercises. The time from the rising or falling edge of the pulse to the falling or rising edge of the pulse is defined as the pulse generation period. During the normal period, the pulse generation period is constant. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse is larger compared to the aforementioned normal period, and the pulse generation period The gap Unlike, During the aforementioned enhancement period, the pulse generation period The gap It gradually changed, The duration of the pulse at the beginning or end of the enhancement period is shorter than the duration of the pulse during the normal period. The biostimulation device is characterized in that the generation period of the pulse at the beginning and the other end of the enhancement period is longer than the generation period of the pulse during the normal period. Furthermore, the fourth main invention for achieving the above objective is: Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The stimulation signal is provided with a normal period and an emphasis period, The normal period and the emphasis period each include pulses at a cycle capable of causing muscle movement in the living body, before In the normal period, the frequency of the pulse is constant, In the emphasis period, compared with the normal period, the amplitude of the pulse is large and the pulse around wave Number is different, In the emphasis period, the pulse around wave Number gradually changes, Of one of the start time and the end time of the emphasis period, the frequency of the pulse is lower than the frequency of the pulse in the normal period, Of the other of the start time and the end time of the emphasis period, the frequency of the pulse is higher than the frequency of the pulse in the normal period. A living body stimulation device characterized by this.

[0007] Other features of the present invention will be clarified by the description in the specification and drawings described later.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, a new change in stimulation can be applied to the living body.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the living body stimulation device 100 of the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of the stimulation signal S of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the first modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the second modification of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of the third embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the third embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the fifth embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the first reference example. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of the second reference example. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram of another configuration of the biostimulator 100. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] ===Implementation Method=== <Basic configuration> Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the biostimulator 100 of this embodiment.

[0011] The biostimulator 100 is a device that applies stimulation to a living organism using a stimulation signal. When a stimulation signal is applied to a living organism, the muscles contract and relax, thereby providing stimulation to the organism. The biostimulator 100 includes an output transformer 10, a first switch 21 and a second switch 22, an electrode 31, and a control unit 40.

[0012] The output transformer 10 is a converter (voltage transformer) that converts signals between the primary winding and the secondary winding. The output transformer 10 converts the electrical energy supplied to the primary side into magnetic energy, and then converts the magnetic energy back into electrical energy on the secondary side to output it as a stimulus signal.

[0013] The output transformer 10 has a first input terminal 11, a second input terminal 12, a center tap 13, a first output terminal 14, and a second output terminal 15. The primary side of the output transformer 10 is provided with the first input terminal 11, the second input terminal 12, and the center tap 13. The first input terminal 11 is a terminal at one end of the primary winding. The second input terminal 12 is a terminal at the other end of the primary winding (opposite the primary input terminal). The center tap 13 is a terminal drawn out at the midpoint of the primary winding. The secondary side of the output transformer 10 is provided with the first output terminal 14 and the second output terminal 15.

[0014] The first switch 21 is a switch for allowing a positive (predetermined) current to flow through the primary winding of the output transformer 10. The first switch 21 is connected to the first input terminal 11 on one end of the primary winding of the output transformer 10. The first switch 21 is, for example, an FET, with the drain of the source-grounded FET connected to the first input terminal 11, and on / off control (energized / deactivated) is performed according to the signal input to the gate. When the first switch 21 is turned on, a positive current flows through the primary winding. When the first switch 21 is turned off, this positive current is interrupted.

[0015] The second switch 22 is a switch for allowing a negative current (opposite to the predetermined direction) to flow through the primary winding of the output transformer 10. The second switch 22 is connected to the second input terminal 12 on the other end of the primary winding of the output transformer 10 (the side opposite to the side to which the first switch 21 is connected). Like the first switch 21, the second switch 22 is, for example, an FET, with the drain of the source-grounded FET connected to the second input terminal 12, and is switched on and off in response to a signal input to the gate. When the second switch 22 is turned on, a negative current flows through the primary winding. When the second switch 22 is turned off, this negative current is interrupted.

[0016] The electrode 31 is an electrode that outputs a stimulating signal to a living body. The electrode 31 is connected to the first output terminal 14 and the second output terminal 15 of the secondary winding of the output transformer 10, respectively. The electrode 31 can take the form of, for example, an adhesive pad, a suction pad, a metal rod, or a glove. The user applies a stimulating signal to the living body by bringing the electrode 31 into contact with it.

[0017] The control unit 40 is a controller for generating the stimulus signal output from the electrode 31. Here, the control unit 40 controls the stimulus signal by controlling the drive of the first switch 21 and the second switch 22. In other words, the control unit 40 controls the input to the output transformer 10 via the first switch 21 and the second switch 22. The control unit 40 also controls the voltage of the center tap 13 of the primary winding of the output transformer 10. The control unit 40 generates the stimulus signal, which will be described later, by executing a program stored in a memory unit (not shown). Here, the control unit 40 includes a processing unit 41, a voltage setting unit 42, and a drive signal generation unit 43.

[0018] The processing unit 41 is, for example, a CPU or MPU. The processing unit 41 outputs a setting signal to the voltage setting unit 42 to instruct the set voltage. The processing unit 41 also outputs an instruction signal to the drive signal generation unit 43 to instruct the generation of the first drive signal and the second drive signal.

[0019] The voltage setting unit 42 is the part (circuit) that sets the voltage (set voltage) of the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10. Here, the voltage setting unit 42 has a D / A converter 42A and an amplifier 42B. The D / A converter 42A outputs a voltage corresponding to the signal input from the processing unit 41, and the amplifier 42B amplifies the output voltage from the D / A converter 42A to set the voltage of the center tap 13. When the setting signal from the processing unit 41 is changed, the set voltage of the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10 is changed, and the voltage of the stimulus signal is adjusted.

[0020] The drive signal generation unit 43 is a signal generation unit (circuit) that generates a first drive signal and a second drive signal. The drive signal generation unit 43 outputs the first drive signal to the first switch 21 (specifically, the gate of the first switch 21, which is an FET) and outputs the second drive signal to the second switch 22 (specifically, the gate of the second switch 22, which is an FET). Alternatively, the control unit 40 may be configured such that the processing unit 41 outputs the first drive signal and the second drive signal to the first switch 21 and the second switch 22 without providing the drive signal generation unit 43.

[0021] <Reference example> Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram of the first reference example. The horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents voltage. The various signals in the figure, from top to bottom, are the set voltage, the first drive signal, the second drive signal, and the stimulus signal. The figure also shows an enlarged explanatory diagram of the time axis of the signals within the thick border.

[0022] The set voltage is the voltage (potential) at the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10. Here, the set voltage is V01, but as will be described later, the control unit 40 can change the set voltage. The set voltage V01 is set so that the voltage (amplitude) of the stimulus signal becomes V1.

[0023] The first drive signal is a signal (drive signal, switch control signal) for driving the first switch 21. When the first drive signal is at a high level, the first switch 21 is turned on, a set voltage is applied to the primary winding between the first input terminal 11 and the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10, and a positive current (predetermined direction) flows through the primary winding (energized). When the first drive signal is at a low level, the first switch 21 is turned off, and the positive current is interrupted (pause).

[0024] The second drive signal is a signal for driving the second switch 22. When the second drive signal is at a high level, the second switch 22 turns on, and a set voltage is applied to the primary winding between the second input terminal 12 and the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10, causing a current to flow in the negative direction (opposite to the predetermined direction) through the primary winding. When the second drive signal is at a low level, the second switch 22 turns off, and the current in the negative direction is interrupted.

[0025] The first drive signal and the second drive signal are signals in which a group of pulses, each composed of multiple pulses, appears at predetermined cycles T0. The pulse groups of the first drive signal and the pulse groups of the second drive signal are generated alternately. Therefore, the first switch 21 and the second switch 22 alternately perform high-frequency switching operations. Note that the energizing periods of the pulse groups of the first drive signal and the second drive signal do not overlap; when the pulse group of one drive signal is energized, the other drive signal is in a dormant period. In other words, the first drive signal and the second drive signal are 180 degrees out of phase with each other.

[0026] The stimulus signal S is the signal output from the electrode. The stimulus signal S is generated by the set voltage, the first drive signal, and the second drive signal. Note that the waveform of the stimulus signal will be distorted due to the reactance characteristics of the living body, but the stimulus signal in the figure is shown in a state where the distortion has been eliminated.

[0027] The stimulus signal S in the first reference example has a group of alternating positive pulses GPa0 and a group of negative pulses GPb0. The positive pulse group GPa0 consists of multiple pulses of positive voltage (positive pulse Pa0). The positive pulse group GPa0 is generated by the pulse group of the first drive signal. Specifically, the positive pulse group GPa0 is generated when the first drive signal turns the first switch 21 on and off, causing a positive (predetermined) current to flow in the primary winding between the first input terminal 11 and the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10. The negative pulse group GPb0 consists of multiple pulses of negative voltage (negative pulse Pb0). The negative pulse group GPb0 is generated by the pulse group of the second drive signal. Specifically, the negative pulse group GPb0 is generated when the second switch 22 is turned on and off by the second drive signal, causing a negative current (opposite to the predetermined direction) to flow in the primary winding between the second input terminal 12 and the center tap 13 of the output transformer 10.

[0028] When a stimulus signal generated by the first reference example stimulus signal S is applied to a living organism, there is a risk that the organism may become accustomed to the stimulus signal because the stimulus applied to the organism is monotonous.

[0029] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram of the second reference example.

[0030] In the second example, the set voltage switches from V01 to V02. The set voltage V02 is set so that the voltage (amplitude) of the stimulus signal becomes V2. The timing of the set voltage switch defines the timing of the switch between the normal period and the enhanced period.

[0031] The first and second drive signals in the second reference example are the same as in the first reference example. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the first and second drive signals is omitted here.

[0032] The stimulus signal S in the second reference example includes a normal period and an enhanced period. The positive pulse group GPa1 and negative pulse group GPb1 during the enhanced period have larger amplitudes than the positive pulse group GPa0 and negative pulse group GPb0 during the normal period. During the enhanced period, a stronger stimulus can be applied to the living body than during the normal period. In addition, a change in stimulus can be applied to the living body at the timing of the switch between the normal period and the enhanced period. However, in the second reference example, only the amplitude is changed, so the change in stimulus is limited.

[0033] In the following explanation, the positive pulse group GPa0 during the normal period and the positive pulse group GPa1 during the enhanced period may be collectively referred to as "positive pulse group GPa." Similarly, the negative pulse group GPb0 during the normal period and the negative pulse group GPb1 during the enhanced period may be collectively referred to as "negative pulse group GPb." Furthermore, the positive pulse group GPa and the negative pulse group GPb may be collectively referred to as "pulse group GP." Furthermore, in the following explanation, the positive pulse Pa0 that constitutes the positive pulse group GPa0 during the normal period and the positive pulse Pa1 that constitutes the positive pulse group GPa1 during the enhanced period may be collectively referred to as "positive pulse Pa". Also, the negative pulse Pb0 that constitutes the negative pulse group GPb0 during the normal period and the negative pulse Pb1 that constitutes the negative pulse group GPb1 during the enhanced period may be collectively referred to as "negative pulse Pb". In addition, the positive pulse Pa and the negative pulse Pb may be collectively referred to as "pulse P".

[0034] <First Embodiment> Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of the stimulus signal S of the first embodiment. In the following description, only the waveform of the stimulus signal S is shown, and the setting signal, first drive signal, and second drive signal are omitted. The setting signal has a voltage of V01 during the normal period and a voltage of V02 during the emphasis period. The first drive signal is configured to generate the positive pulse group GPa (GPa0, GPa1) of the stimulus signal, and the second drive signal is configured to generate the negative pulse group GPb (GPb0, GPb1) of the stimulus signal. In the explanatory diagrams of other embodiments described later, only the waveform of the stimulus signal S is shown, and the setting signal, first drive signal, and second drive signal are omitted.

[0035] The stimulus signal S of the first embodiment has a positive pulse group GPa (GPa0, GPa1) and a negative pulse group GPb (GPb0, GPb1). The positive pulse group GPa and the negative pulse group GPb are generated alternately.

[0036] The positive pulse group GPa and the negative pulse group GPb are generated at a predetermined period (corresponding to T0 in the figure). The generation periods of the positive pulse group GPa and the negative pulse group GPb do not overlap, and their phases are 180 degrees apart. In the following explanation, the generation period of the positive pulse group GPa (the time from the rising edge of the first pulse of the positive pulse group GPa to the falling edge of the last pulse) may be referred to as the "positive pulse group length," and the generation period of the negative pulse group GPb (the time from the falling edge of the first pulse of the negative pulse group GPb to the rising edge of the last pulse) may be referred to as the "negative pulse group length." In addition, in the following explanation, the positive pulse group length and the negative pulse group length may be collectively referred to as the "pulse group length."

[0037] The frequencies of the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) (corresponding to 1 / T0 in the diagram) are between 0.5kHz and 5kHz. Within this frequency range, muscle movement can be induced and stimulation can be applied to the body. Furthermore, within the range of 1kHz to 2.8kHz, muscle movement can be more reliably induced and stimulation can be applied to the body. Note that if the pulse group GP frequency exceeds, for example, 10kHz, the muscles become unable to respond, making it difficult to stimulate the body.

[0038] The positive pulse group GPa (GPa0, GPa1) is composed of multiple pulses of positive voltage (positive pulse Pa). The negative pulse group GPb (GPb0, GPb1) is composed of multiple pulses of negative voltage (negative pulse Pb). The pulse group GP (GPa, GPb) shown in Figure 2 is composed of multiple pulses P (positive pulse Pa or negative pulse Pb) with the same waveform and a constant period. For example, the pulse length (pulse width) of pulse P is about 1 μS to several tens of μS, and the frequency of pulse P is 10 kHz to 500 kHz. Note that even if pulses with frequencies of 10 kHz or higher are applied to a living organism, the muscles of the organism cannot respond to individual pulses P (however, if the frequency of the pulse group PG composed of pulses of such frequencies is 0.5 kHz to 5 kHz, the muscles of the organism can be made to move in accordance with the pulse group PG). As will be described later, the configuration of the pulse group GP is not limited to this (see Figures 3 and 4).

[0039] In the first embodiment, the stimulus signal S also has a normal period and an emphasis period. The normal period and the emphasis period appear alternately. The length of the emphasis period is, for example, about 100 μS to 100 mS. If the length of the emphasis period is 100 mS or longer, the body becomes more susceptible to feeling a tingling pain, so it is desirable that the length of the emphasis period be less than 100 mS. On the other hand, if the length of the emphasis period is less than 100 μS, the body becomes less susceptible to the stimulus, so it is desirable that the length of the emphasis period be 100 μS or longer. The length of the normal period is about 100 mS to 5 S (5 seconds). The length of the normal period may be constant (the repetition period of the emphasis period may be constant), or the length of the normal period may change randomly.

[0040] During both the normal and enhanced periods, the positive pulse group GPa(GPa0,GPa1) and the negative pulse group GPb(GPb0,GPb1) occur alternately. The pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) during the enhanced period has a larger amplitude than the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period. The amplitude of the pulse group GP during the normal period is V1, and the amplitude of the pulse group GP during the enhanced period is V2 (>V1).

[0041] In the first embodiment, the pulse group GP (GPa1, GPb1) during the enhancement period differs from the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0) during the normal period not only in amplitude but also in pulse group length. In the configuration shown in Figure 2, the pulse group length is varied by varying the number of pulses (positive pulse Pa or negative pulse Pb) that make up the pulse group GP. Figure 2 shows that the pulse group length during the normal period is t0 and the pulse group length during the enhancement period is t1. The pulse group length of the i-th pulse group GP (i=1 to N; here N=8) during the enhancement period is shown as t1_i.

[0042] In the first embodiment, the pulse groups GP (positive pulse group GPa1 and negative pulse group GPb1) during the enhancement period have the same amplitude, but their pulse group lengths t1 gradually differ. As shown in Figure 2, the pulse group lengths t1 of the pulse groups GP (positive pulse group GPa1 and negative pulse group GPb1) gradually increase during the enhancement period. Therefore, the pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is longer than the pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the enhancement period.

[0043] Furthermore, the pulse group length t1 of the pulse group GP (GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period is set to be at least 1 / 10 of the pulse group length t0 of the pulse group GP (GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period. This is because if the pulse group length t1 is less than 1 / 10 of the pulse group length t0, it becomes difficult to stimulate the living body.

[0044] The pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP in the enhancement period is shorter than the pulse group length t0 in the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. Normally, an increase in amplitude intensifies the stimulus to the body, while a decrease in pulse group length weakens the stimulus. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in pulse group length cancel each other out. As a result, even if the amplitude increases from V1 to V2 at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, it is less likely to cause pain. In addition, this allows for a transition from the enhancement period to the normal period without the body noticing a change in stimulus.

[0045] Furthermore, during the intensification period, the pulse group length t1 changes gradually, making it more difficult for the body to perceive changes in stimulation, thus reducing the perception of pain.

[0046] The pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is longer than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. Normally, a decrease in amplitude weakens the stimulus to the body, and a decrease in pulse group length also weakens the stimulus to the body. Therefore, at the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, the stimulus to the body weakens synergistically, making it easier for the body to perceive the change in stimulus. Furthermore, at the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, the stimulus changes from strong to weak, allowing the body to perceive the change in stimulus without causing pain.

[0047] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram of a first modified example of the first embodiment. In the first modified example, the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) is composed of multiple pulses modulated by pulse width modulation (PWM). The pulse groups of the first and second drive signals (not shown) are also composed of multiple pulses modulated by pulse width modulation (PWM). During the first half of the pulse group GP's generation period, the pulse width (the width of the pulses constituting the pulse group GP) gradually increases, and during the second half of the pulse group GP's generation period, the pulse width gradually decreases. In other words, during the first half of the pulse group GP's generation period, the duty cycle gradually increases, and during the second half of the pulse group GP's generation period, the duty cycle gradually decreases. This allows for a softer sensation when the pulse group GP is applied to a living organism.

[0048] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of a second modified example of the first embodiment. In the second modified example, the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) is composed of multiple pulses modulated by pulse density modulation. The pulse groups of the first and second drive signals (not shown) are also composed of multiple pulses modulated by pulse density modulation. During the first half of the pulse group GP generation period, the pulse density gradually increases, and during the second half, the pulse density gradually decreases. In other words, during the first half of the pulse group GP generation period, the pulse frequency gradually increases, and during the second half, the pulse frequency gradually decreases. This allows for a softer sensation when the pulse group GP is applied to a living organism.

[0049] In both the first and second modified examples, the pulse group length during the emphasis period gradually differs. In the first modified example, the pulse group length can be varied by reducing the width and number of pulses constituting the pulse group GP. In the second modified example, the pulse group length can be varied by reducing the number of pulses constituting the pulse group GP.

[0050] In the second to fifth embodiments described below, the pulse group GP is composed of multiple pulses (positive pulses Pa or negative pulses Pb) with the same waveform and constant period, similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 2. However, in the embodiments described below, the pulse group GP may also be composed of multiple pulses with pulse width modulation as shown in Figure 3, or of multiple pulses with pulse density modulation as shown in Figure 4.

[0051] <Second Embodiment> Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the second embodiment.

[0052] In the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period has a larger amplitude than the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period. Also in the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period has the same amplitude, but the pulse group length t1 gradually differs. In the second embodiment, the pulse group length t1 of the pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period gradually decreases. Therefore, the pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is shorter than the pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the enhancement period.

[0053] The pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the enhancement period is longer than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. Because the stimulation to the body is synergistically strengthened, the body becomes more sensitive to the change in stimulation. Furthermore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, the stimulus changes significantly from weak to strong, making it easier for the body to perceive a strong stimulus.

[0054] The pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is shorter than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the time of switching from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. Normally, a decrease in amplitude weakens the stimulus to the body, while a lengthening of pulse group length strengthens the stimulus. Thus, at the time of switching from the enhancement period to the normal period, the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in pulse group length cancel each other out. As a result, it is possible to transition from the enhancement period to the normal period without the body perceiving a change in stimulus.

[0055] <Third Embodiment> Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram of the third embodiment.

[0056] In the third embodiment, the positive pulse group GPa1 is composed of one or more positive sub-pulse groups SGa1. The positive sub-pulse group SGa1 is composed of multiple (in this case, four) positive pulses Pa1. Similarly, the negative pulse group GPb1 is composed of one or more negative sub-pulse groups SGb1. The negative sub-pulse group SGb1 is composed of multiple (in this case, four) negative pulses Pb1. In the following description, the positive sub-pulse group SGa1 and the negative sub-pulse group SGb1 may be collectively referred to as "sub-pulse group SG1".

[0057] The sub-pulse group SG1 in the figure is composed of multiple pulses (positive pulse Pa1 or negative pulse Pb1) with the same waveform and constant period. However, the sub-pulse group SG1 may also be composed of multiple pulses with pulse width modulation, as in the pulse group GP in Figure 3, or of multiple pulses with pulse density modulation, as in the pulse group GP in Figure 4.

[0058] In the third embodiment, the stimulus signal S also has a normal period and an enhancement period. In both the normal period and the enhancement period, the positive pulse group GPa(GPa0,GPa1) and the negative pulse group GPb(GPb0,GPb1) occur alternately. The pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) in the enhancement period has a larger amplitude than the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) in the normal period.

[0059] In the third embodiment, the pulse group GP (GPa1, GPb1) during the emphasis period differs not only in amplitude but also in pulse group length compared to the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0) during the normal period. In the configuration shown in Figure 6, the pulse group length t1 is varied by varying the number of sub-pulse groups SG1 (positive sub-pulse group SGa1 or negative sub-pulse group SGb1) that constitute the pulse group GP.

[0060] In the third embodiment, the pulse groups GP (positive pulse group GPa1 and negative pulse group GPb1) during the enhancement period have the same amplitude, but their pulse group lengths t1 gradually differ. As shown in Figure 6, the pulse group lengths of the pulse groups GP (positive pulse group GPa1 and negative pulse group GPb1) gradually increase during the enhancement period. Therefore, the pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is longer than the pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the enhancement period.

[0061] The pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the enhancement period is shorter than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. At the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, the change in stimulation to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulation to the body due to the change in pulse group length cancel each other out. As a result, even if the amplitude increases from V1 to V2 at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, it is less likely to cause pain. In addition, this allows for a transition from the enhancement period to the normal period without the body noticing a change in stimulation.

[0062] The pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is longer than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. At the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, the stimulus to the body weakens synergistically, making the body more sensitive to the change in stimulus. Furthermore, because the stimulus changes from strong to weak at the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, the body can perceive the change in stimulus without causing pain.

[0063] Figure 7 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the third embodiment.

[0064] In the modified example, the pulse group length t1 is varied by varying the number of sub-pulse groups SG1 (positive sub-pulse group SGa1 or negative sub-pulse group SGb1) that constitute the pulse group GP (GPa1, GPb1) during the emphasis period. In the modified example, the pulse group length t1 of the pulse group GP (GPa1, GPb1) gradually decreases during the emphasis period. As a result, the pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the emphasis period is shorter than the pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the emphasis period.

[0065] The pulse group length t1_1 of the first pulse group GP during the enhancement period is longer than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. Because the stimulation to the body is synergistically strengthened, the body becomes more sensitive to the change in stimulation. Furthermore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, the stimulus changes significantly from weak to strong, making it easier for the body to perceive a strong stimulus.

[0066] The pulse group length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse group GP during the enhancement period is shorter than the pulse group length t0 during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse group length occur simultaneously. At the timing of the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period, the change in stimulation to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulation to the body due to the change in pulse group length cancel each other out. As a result, the transition from the enhancement period to the normal period can be made without the body perceiving a change in stimulation.

[0067] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram of the fourth embodiment.

[0068] In the fourth embodiment, the stimulus signal also includes a normal period and an enhancement period. During both the normal and enhancement periods, the positive pulse group GPa(GPa0,GPa1) and the negative pulse group GPb(GPb0,GPb1) occur alternately. The pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period has a larger amplitude than the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period.

[0069] In the fourth embodiment, the pulse group GP (GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period differs from the pulse group GP (GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period not only in amplitude but also in frequency. Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, the frequency of the pulse group GP (GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period gradually increases. As a result, the frequency of the pulse group GP at the end of the enhancement period is higher than the frequency of the pulse group GP at the beginning of the enhancement period. In other words, the periods of the N-1th and Nth (here N=8) pulse group GP of the enhancement period are shorter than the periods of the 1st and 2nd pulse group GP of the enhancement period.

[0070] The frequency of the pulse group GP at the start of the enhancement period is lower than the frequency of the pulse group GP during the normal period. In other words, the period T1_1 of the pulse group GP at the start of the enhancement period is longer than the period T0 of the pulse group GP during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in the frequency of the pulse group GP (a change in the period of the pulse group GP) occur simultaneously. Normally, an increase in amplitude intensifies the stimulus to the body, while a decrease in pulse group GP frequency (a lengthening of the period of the pulse group GP) weakens the stimulus to the body. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in pulse group length cancel each other out. As a result, even if the amplitude increases from V1 to V2 at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, it is possible to make it less likely to feel pain. In addition, this makes it possible to transition from the enhancement period to the normal period without the body feeling the change in stimulus.

[0071] The frequency of the pulse group GP at the end of the enhancement period is higher than the frequency of the pulse group GP during the normal period. In other words, the period T1_7 of the pulse group GP at the end of the enhancement period is shorter than the period T0 of the pulse group GP during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change in amplitude and a change in the frequency of the pulse group GP (a change in the period of the pulse group GP) occur simultaneously. Normally, a decrease in amplitude weakens the stimulus to the body, and a decrease in the frequency of the pulse group GP (a lengthening of the period of the pulse group GP) also weakens the stimulus to the body. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the enhancement period to the normal period, the stimulus to the body weakens synergistically, making it easier for the body to perceive the change in stimulus. Furthermore, at the timing of the switch from the enhancement period to the normal period, the stimulus changes from strong to weak, so the body can perceive the change in stimulus without causing pain.

[0072] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram of a modified example of the fourth embodiment.

[0073] In the modified example, the frequency (period) of the pulse group GP during the emphasis period gradually changes. In the modified example, the frequency of the pulse group GP during the emphasis period gradually decreases. As a result, the frequency of the pulse group GP at the end of the emphasis period is lower than the frequency of the pulse group GP at the beginning of the emphasis period. In other words, the periods of the N-1th and Nth (here, N=8) pulse group GPs of the emphasis period are longer than the periods of the 1st and 2nd pulse group GPs of the emphasis period.

[0074] The frequency of the pulse group GP at the start of the enhancement period is higher than the frequency of the pulse group GP during the normal period. In other words, the period of the pulse group GP at the start of the enhancement period is shorter than the period T0 of the pulse group GP during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in the frequency of the pulse group GP (a change in the period of the pulse group GP) occur simultaneously. Because the stimulation to the body is synergistically strengthened, the body becomes more sensitive to the change in stimulation. Furthermore, at the timing of the switch from the normal period to the enhancement period, there is a large change from a weak stimulus to a strong stimulus, making it easier for the body to perceive a strong stimulus.

[0075] The frequency of the pulse group GP at the end of the enhancement period is lower than the frequency of the pulse group GP during the normal period. In other words, the period of the pulse group GP at the beginning of the enhancement period is longer than the period T0 of the pulse group GP during the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of the switch from the enhancement period to the normal period, the change in stimulation to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulation to the body due to the change in the frequency (period) of the pulse group GP cancel each other out. This allows for a transition from the enhancement period to the normal period without the body perceiving a change in stimulation.

[0076] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 10 is an explanatory diagram of the fifth embodiment.

[0077] In the fifth embodiment, the stimulus signal also includes a normal period and an enhancement period. During both the normal and enhancement periods, the positive pulse group GPa(GPa0,GPa1) and the negative pulse group GPb(GPb0,GPb1) occur alternately. The pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) during the enhancement period has a larger amplitude than the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period.

[0078] In the fifth embodiment, the pulse group GP (GPa1, GPb1) during the enhancement period differs from the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0) during the normal period not only in amplitude but also in generation period (pulse group length) and frequency. Thus, during the enhancement period, it is possible to differ not only in one of the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency, but in both, compared to the normal period.

[0079] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment, the pulse group GP (positive pulse group GPa1 and negative pulse group GPb1) during the emphasis period has gradually changing pulse group length and frequency. Specifically, the pulse group length gradually increases, and the frequency of the pulse group GP gradually decreases (the period of the pulse group GP gradually increases). Thus, during the emphasis period, it is possible to gradually change not only one of the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency, but both.

[0080] During the enhancement period, the pulse group length gradually increases, and the pulse group GP frequency gradually decreases. As a result, the changes in stimulation to the body due to the change in pulse group length cancel each other out, as do the changes in stimulation to the body due to the change in pulse group GP frequency (period). This makes it difficult for the body to perceive the changes in stimulation. Alternatively, during the enhancement period, the pulse group length may gradually decrease, and the pulse group GP frequency may gradually increase. In this case as well, the changes in stimulation to the body due to the change in pulse group length and the changes in stimulation to the body due to the change in pulse group GP frequency (period) cancel each other out, making it difficult for the body to perceive the changes in stimulation.

[0081] At the transition from the normal period to the enhanced period, the body is more likely to perceive changes in stimulation due to changes in the frequency of the pulse group GP, whereas at the transition from the enhanced period to the normal period, the body is more likely to perceive changes in stimulation due to changes in the pulse group length. In this way, by making both the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency different from the normal period during the enhanced period, and by gradually changing both the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency, the variety of stimuli that can be applied to the body can be increased, and the body's ability to become accustomed to the stimuli can be suppressed.

[0082] During the enhancement period, the pulse group length may gradually increase, and the frequency of the pulse group GP may gradually increase. This allows for a synergistic enhancement of the stimulation to the body during the enhancement period. Alternatively, during the enhancement period, the pulse group length may gradually decrease, and the frequency of the pulse group GP may gradually decrease. This allows for a synergistic suppression of the stimulation to the body during the enhancement period.

[0083] <Sixth Embodiment> Figure 11 is an explanatory diagram of the stimulus signal S in the sixth embodiment.

[0084] The stimulus signal S of the sixth embodiment has a positive pulse Pa (Pa0, Pa1) and a negative pulse Pb (Pb0, Pb1). The positive pulse Pa and the negative pulse Pb occur alternately. The stimulus signal S of the sixth embodiment consists of a single pulse (single pulse) instead of the pulse group GP composed of multiple pulses as in the first to fifth embodiments described above. The positive pulse Pa and negative pulse Pb of the sixth embodiment occur at a predetermined period (corresponding to T0 in the figure), similar to the positive pulse group GPa and negative pulse group GPb of the first to fifth embodiments described above. In the following description, the period during which the positive pulse Pa occurs may be called the "positive pulse length," and the period during which the negative pulse Pb occurs may be called the "negative pulse length." Also, in the following description, the positive pulse length and the negative pulse length may be collectively referred to as the "pulse length." Figure 11 shows that the pulse length during the normal period is t0, and the pulse length during the enhanced period is t1. The pulse length of the i-th pulse P (i=1 to N; in this case, N=8) during the emphasis period is shown as t1_i.

[0085] In the sixth embodiment, the pulse (Pa1, Pb1) during the enhancement period has a larger amplitude than the pulse P (Pa0, Pb0) during the normal period. Also, although the amplitude of the pulses (Pa1, Pb1) during the enhancement period is the same, the pulse length t1 gradually increases. Therefore, the pulse length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse of the enhancement period is longer than the pulse length t1_1 of the first pulse of the enhancement period.

[0086] In the sixth embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the pulse length t1_1 of the first pulse in the enhancement period is shorter than the pulse length t0 of the normal period. Therefore, at the timing of switching from the normal period to the enhancement period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse length occur simultaneously. Normally, an increase in amplitude intensifies the stimulus to the body, while a decrease in pulse length weakens the stimulus to the body. Therefore, at the timing of switching from the normal period to the enhancement period, the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in amplitude and the change in stimulus to the body due to the change in pulse length cancel each other out. As a result, even if the amplitude increases from V1 to V2 at the timing of switching from the normal period to the enhancement period, it is possible to make it less likely to cause pain. Furthermore, this makes it possible to transition from the enhancement period to the normal period without the body perceiving a change in stimulus.

[0087] Furthermore, during the intensified period, the pulse length t1 changes gradually, making it more difficult for the body to perceive changes in stimulation, thus reducing the perception of pain.

[0088] The pulse length t1_N (here, N=8) of the last pulse in the enhanced period is longer than the pulse length t0 in the normal period. Therefore, at the time of switching from the enhanced period to the normal period, a change in amplitude and a change in pulse length occur simultaneously. Normally, a decrease in amplitude weakens the stimulus to the body, and a decrease in pulse length also weakens the stimulus to the body. Therefore, at the time of switching from the enhanced period to the normal period, the stimulus to the body weakens synergistically, making it easier for the body to perceive the change in stimulus. Furthermore, at the time of switching from the enhanced period to the normal period, the stimulus changes from strong to weak, so the body can perceive the change in stimulus without causing pain.

[0089] In addition, instead of the pulse group GP composed of multiple pulses as in the first to fifth embodiments of the second to fifth embodiments described above, a stimulation signal S composed of a single pulse may be output. In this case as well, the same effects as in the second to fifth embodiments described above can be achieved. However, by having the stimulation signal S composed of a pulse group GP as in the first to fifth embodiments described above, the sensation of stimulation when the stimulation signal S is applied to a living organism can be made softer compared to the case where the stimulation signal S is composed of a single pulse as in the sixth embodiment.

[0090] <Other> Figure 14 is an explanatory diagram of another configuration of the biostimulator 100. The biostimulator 100 includes an electrode 31, a control unit 40, a stabilized power supply, input elements 50 (51-53), a display unit 60 (61, 62), an amplifier 71, and an LPF 72.

[0091] A regulated power supply is a device that outputs a stable DC voltage. In this case, a 100V AC voltage is input to the regulated power supply, and the regulated power supply outputs DC voltages of +5V, +24V, and -24V, respectively. The +5V DC voltage is used to drive the control unit 40, and the +24V and -24V DC voltages are used for the amplifier 71.

[0092] The input elements 50 (51-53) are components that provide input to the control unit 40. Here, the input elements 50 include a variable resistor 51 for adjusting the level (amplitude) of the stimulus signal, a crystal oscillator 52 for generating a clock signal, and a switch 53 for selecting the operating mode. Other types of input elements may also provide signals to the control unit 40.

[0093] The display unit 60 (61, 62) displays various information. Here, the display unit 60 includes a time display unit 61 that displays the output time of the stimulus signal and a mode display unit 62 that displays the operating mode.

[0094] Amplifier 71 amplifies the stimulus signal output from control unit 40. Here, amplifier 71 is configured as a Class D amplifier. Amplifier 71 may amplify digital signals or analog signals.

[0095] LPF72 is a low-pass filter that removes noise from the output signal of amplifier 71 (a Class D amplifier). LPF72 is installed between amplifier 71 and electrode 31.

[0096] The control unit 40 performs processing to output a stimulus signal according to a program stored in a memory unit (not shown). The stimulus signal output by the control unit 40 is amplified by the amplifier 71 and output to the living body from the electrode 31. The control unit 40 outputs a signal (stimulus signal before amplification) that, when amplified by the amplifier 71, becomes the aforementioned stimulus signal S.

[0097] The biostimulator 100 with the configuration shown in Figure 14, like the biostimulator 100 described above, repeatedly outputs a pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) composed of multiple pulses as a stimulation signal at a period that allows the living body to perform muscle movement. Furthermore, the stimulation signal has a normal period and an enhanced period. In the enhanced period, the amplitude of the pulse group GP is larger than in the normal period, and at least one of the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency of the pulse group GP is different. This allows for the application of a new stimulus to the living body compared to the case where only the amplitude is changed at the timing of switching between the normal period and the enhanced period. Furthermore, the biostimulator 100 with the configuration shown in Figure 14 may also output the stimulation signal shown in Figure 11. In this case as well, a new stimulus can be applied to the living body compared to the case where only the amplitude is changed at the timing of switching between the normal period and the enhancement period.

[0098] As described above, the biostimulator 100 is not limited to a configuration equipped with an output transformer 10 (see Figure 1), but may have other configurations. Furthermore, when outputting a stimulation signal that includes a short-pulse rectangular wave (for example, a rectangular wave with a pulse length of 1 μS), it is desirable to generate the stimulation signal using a switching circuit as shown in Figure 1, from the viewpoint of miniaturization and cost.

[0099] <Summary> The biostimulator 100 described above is equipped with an electrode 31 that applies a stimulation signal to the living body (see Figure 1). The stimulation signal has a normal period and an enhanced period, and both the normal period and the enhanced period contain a pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) composed of multiple pulses, with a period that allows the living body to perform muscle movement. In the biostimulator 100 of this embodiment, during the enhanced period, the amplitude of the pulse group GP is larger than during the normal period, and at least one of the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency of the pulse group GP is different. This makes it possible to apply a new stimulus to the living body compared to the case where only the amplitude is changed at the timing of switching between the normal period and the enhanced period.

[0100] Furthermore, during the enhancement period, at least one of the generation period (pulse group length) and frequency of the pulse group GP (GPa1, GPb1) gradually changes. This makes it less likely for the body to perceive changes in stimulation even during the enhancement period.

[0101] When the duration (length of pulse group) of pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) gradually changes during the enhancement period, it is desirable that the duration (length of pulse group) of one of the pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) at the beginning or end of the enhancement period be shorter than the duration of pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period, and the duration of the other pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) at the beginning or end be shorter than the duration of pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period. This makes it possible to prevent the organism from sensing the change in stimulus at one of the transition timings, from the normal period to the enhancement period, and from the enhancement period to the normal period, while making it easier for the organism to sense the change in stimulus at the other. Furthermore, at the transition from the intensified period to the normal period, it is desirable that the amplitude of the pulse group GP decreases and the duration of the pulse group GP shortens simultaneously. This changes the stimulus from strong to weak, allowing the body to perceive the change in stimulus without causing pain.

[0102] Furthermore, if the duration (pulse group length) of the pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) gradually changes during the enhancement period, it is desirable that the frequency of one of the pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) at the start and end of the enhancement period be lower than the frequency of the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period, and the frequency of the other pulse group GP(GPa1,GPb1) at the start and end of the enhancement period be higher than the frequency of the pulse group GP(GPa0,GPb0) during the normal period. This makes it possible to prevent the body from sensing the change in stimulus at one of the transition timings, from the normal period to the enhancement period, and from the enhancement period to the normal period, while making it easier for the body to sense the change in stimulus at the other. Furthermore, at the transition from the intensified period to the normal period, it is desirable that the amplitude of the pulse group GP decreases and the frequency of the pulse group GP decreases simultaneously. This changes the stimulus from strong to weak, allowing the body to perceive the change in stimulus without causing pain.

[0103] The pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) is composed of multiple pulses with the same waveform and a constant period. This allows for a simple configuration of the control unit 40 (including the program executed by the control unit 40).

[0104] On the other hand, the pulse group GP (GPa0, GPb0, GPa1, GPb1) may be composed of multiple pulses with pulse width modulation, or multiple pulses with pulse density modulation. This makes it possible to soften the sensation of stimulation when the pulse group GP is applied to a living organism.

[0105] The biostimulator 100 described above is equipped with electrodes 31 that are applied to the living body (see Figure 1). As shown in Figure 11, the stimulation signal has a normal period and an enhanced period, and the normal period and the enhanced period each contain pulses (Pa0, Pb0, Pa1, Pb1) with a period that allows the living body to perform muscle movement. As shown in Figure 11, in the enhanced period, the amplitude of the pulse is larger than in the normal period, and at least one of the generation period (pulse length) and frequency of the pulse P is different. This makes it possible to apply a new stimulus to the living body compared to when only the amplitude is changed at the timing of switching between the normal period and the enhanced period.

[0106] ===Other=== The embodiments described above are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit its interpretation. The present invention may be modified and improved without departing from its spirit, and it goes without saying that equivalents thereof are included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0107] 10 output transformers, 11 First input terminal, 12 Second input terminal, 13 Center tap, 14. First output terminal, 15. Second output terminal, 21 First switch, 22 Second switch, 31 Electrode, 40 Control unit, 41 Processing unit, 42 Voltage setting unit, 42A D / A converter, 42B amplifier, 43 Drive signal generation unit, 50 Input elements, variable resistor 51, crystal oscillator 52, switch 53, 60 Display device, time display unit 61, mode display unit 62, 71 Amplifier, 72 LPF, 100 biostimulators, GP pulse group, GPa positive pulse group, GPb negative pulse group, Pa is a positive pulse, Pb is a negative pulse. SG subpulse group, SGa positive subpulse group, SGb negative subpulse group

Claims

1. Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The aforementioned stimulus signal includes a normal period and an emphasis period. The normal period and the enhanced period each include a group of positive pulses consisting of multiple positive pulses and a group of negative pulses consisting of multiple negative pulses, each with a period that allows the living organism to perform muscle movement. The positive pulse group and the negative pulse group are generated alternately. The group of positive pulses and the group of negative pulses are collectively referred to as a pulse group. The generation period of the pulse group is defined as the time from the rising edge of the first positive pulse to the falling edge of the last positive pulse among the multiple positive pulses constituting the positive pulse group, or the time from the falling edge of the first negative pulse to the rising edge of the last negative pulse among the multiple negative pulses constituting the negative pulse group. During the normal period, the generation period of the pulse group is constant. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse group is larger compared to the aforementioned normal period, and the generation period of the pulse group is different. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the generation period of the pulse group gradually changes. The generation period of the pulse group at the beginning or end of the enhancement period is shorter than the generation period of the pulse group in the normal period. A biostimulator characterized in that the generation period of the pulse group at the beginning and the other of the end of the enhancement period is longer than the generation period of the pulse group in the normal period.

2. A biostimulator according to claim 1, A biostimulator characterized in that, at the timing of switching from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change occurs in which the amplitude of the pulse group decreases and the generation period of the pulse group in the normal period becomes shorter than the generation period of the last pulse group in the enhancement period.

3. Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The aforementioned stimulus signal includes a normal period and an emphasis period. The normal period and the enhanced period each include a group of positive pulses consisting of multiple positive pulses and a group of negative pulses consisting of multiple negative pulses, each with a period that allows the living organism to perform muscle movement. The positive pulse group and the negative pulse group are generated alternately. The group of positive pulses and the group of negative pulses are collectively referred to as a pulse group. The frequency of the pulse group is defined as the number of positive pulses or negative pulses per unit time. During the aforementioned normal period, the frequency of the pulse group is constant. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse group is larger and the frequency of the pulse group is different compared to the aforementioned normal period. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the frequency of the pulse group gradually changes. The frequency of the pulse group at either the start or end of the enhancement period is lower than the frequency of the pulse group during the normal period. A biostimulator characterized in that the frequency of the pulse group at the start and end of the enhancement period is higher than the frequency of the pulse group during the normal period.

4. A biostimulator according to claim 3, A biostimulation device characterized in that, at the timing of switching from the enhancement period to the normal period, a change occurs in which the amplitude of the pulse group becomes smaller and the frequency of the pulse group in the normal period becomes lower compared to the frequency of the pulse group at the end of the enhancement period.

5. A biostimulator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A biostimulator characterized in that the group of positive pulses consists of multiple positive pulses with the same waveform and a constant period, and the group of negative pulses consists of multiple negative pulses with the same waveform and a constant period.

6. A biostimulator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A biostimulator characterized in that the group of positive pulses is composed of a plurality of pulse-width modulated positive pulses, and the group of negative pulses is composed of a plurality of pulse-width modulated negative pulses.

7. A biostimulator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, A biostimulator characterized in that the positive pulse group is composed of a plurality of pulses with pulse density modulation, and the negative pulse group is composed of a plurality of pulses with pulse density modulation.

8. Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The aforementioned stimulus signal includes a normal period and an emphasis period. The normal period and the enhanced period each contain pulses with a frequency that allows the living organism to perform muscle exercises. The time from the rising or falling edge of the pulse to the falling or rising edge of the pulse is defined as the pulse generation period. During the normal period, the pulse generation period is constant. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse is larger and the duration of the pulse generation is different compared to the aforementioned normal period. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the pulse generation period gradually changes. The duration of the pulse at the beginning or end of the enhancement period is shorter than the duration of the pulse during the normal period. A biostimulator characterized in that the generation period of the pulse at the beginning and the other of the end of the enhancement period is longer than the generation period of the pulse during the normal period.

9. Equipped with an electrode that delivers a stimulating signal to the living body, The aforementioned stimulus signal includes a normal period and an emphasis period. The normal period and the enhanced period each contain pulses with a frequency that allows the living organism to perform muscle exercises. During the aforementioned normal period, the frequency of the pulse is constant. During the enhancement period, the amplitude of the pulse is larger and the frequency of the pulse is different compared to the normal period. During the aforementioned enhancement period, the frequency of the pulse gradually changes. The frequency of the pulse at either the start or end of the enhancement period is lower than the frequency of the pulse during the normal period. A biostimulation device characterized in that the frequency of the pulse at the start and end of the enhancement period is higher than the frequency of the pulse during the normal period.

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