Chair-type massage machine

Abstract

Provided is a chair-type massage machine (1) having a configuration that makes it possible to press stronger on a treatment part, such as a shoulder, and / or to stretch the treatment part while grasping the treatment part, thus being capable of alleviating stiffness of the treatment part without causing discomfort.　This chair-type massage machine (1) includes: a seat part (2) on which a user (U) sits; a backrest part (3) provided at a rear portion of the seat part (2); a back massage mechanism (5) that is disposed on the backrest part (3) and performs a grasping-squeezing massage on a treatment part of the user (U); and a pressing massage mechanism that performs a pressing massage on the user (U). The chair-type massage machine (1) is provided with a control unit that causes the gasping-squeezing massage by the back massage mechanism (5) and the pressing operation by the pressure massage mechanism to operate in cooperation with each other.

Description

chair massage machine

[0001] The present invention relates to a technique for controlling a massage action performed by a chair-type massage machine.

[0002] A massage device with a gripping action, such as that shown in Patent Document 1, is well known, and a massage device capable of this gripping action, which is installed inside the backrest of a chair-type massage machine, is also commercially available. Also, chair-type massage machines with airbags as a massage mechanism installed on the top surface or sides of the seat where the user sits, or on the sides of the backrest, are also commercially available (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-029772 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-162071

[0004] However, in recent years, many users have expressed their desires. For example, even for chair-type massage machines that can grip and massage, there have been requests for the ability to "press the treatment area more firmly when gripping and massaging the treatment area, such as the shoulders, so as to press deeper into the treatment area (to make the gripping and massaging deeper) to relieve stiffness," and "massage that includes a stretching motion that grips and stretches the treatment area." There have also been requests for the ability to adjust the strength of pressure on the treatment area.

[0005] Therefore, in consideration of the above problems, the present invention aims to provide a chair-type massage machine that is equipped with a configuration that allows it to press more firmly against the treatment area or to grasp and stretch the treatment area, thereby relieving stiffness in the treatment area such as the shoulders without causing discomfort.

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following technical means.

[0007] A chair-type massage machine according to one aspect of the present invention has a seat on which a user sits, a backrest provided at the rear of the seat, a back massage mechanism provided in the backrest for performing a gripping and kneading massage on the user's treatment area, and a pressure massage mechanism for performing a pressure massage on the user, and is characterized by having a control unit that coordinates the gripping and kneading massage by the back massage mechanism and the pressure action by the pressure massage mechanism.

[0008] The pressure massage mechanism may include one or more airbags.

[0009] The back massage mechanism has a pair of left and right first arm members each having a first treatment element at its tip, and a pair of left and right second arm members each having a second treatment element at its tip, and is configured to be able to perform a ``grasp and knead massage'' in which the left and right treatment areas are alternately grasped and kneaded by alternately moving the first treatment element and the second treatment element toward and away from each other, and the airbag is preferably deployed on at least one of the upper surface of the seat, the side of the seat, the side of the backrest, and the front of the backrest.

[0010] The control unit may bring the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side close together to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side, and increase the treatment intensity for the grasped right treatment element by inflating an airbag arranged on the right side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag arranged on the right side of the seat.

[0011] The control unit may bring the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side close together to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side, and increase the treatment intensity for the grasped right treatment element by inflating either an airbag arranged on the left side of the backrest or an airbag arranged on the right side of the backrest.

[0012] The control unit may bring the first and second treatment elements on the left side closer together to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first and second treatment elements on the right side, and increase the intensity of treatment applied to the grasped left treatment element by inflating an airbag disposed on the left side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag disposed on the left side of the seat.

[0013] The control unit may bring the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side close together to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side, and increase the treatment intensity for the grasped left treatment element by inflating either an airbag arranged on the left side of the backrest or an airbag arranged on the right side of the backrest.

[0014] The control unit may bring the first and second treatment elements on the right side close together to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first and second treatment elements on the left side, and may inflate an airbag disposed on the upper left side of the seat and / or an airbag disposed on the left side of the seat, thereby stretching the grasped right treatment element.

[0015] The control unit may bring the first and second treatment elements on the left side close together to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first and second treatment elements on the right side, and may inflate an airbag disposed on the right side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag disposed to the right side of the seat, thereby stretching the grasped left treatment element.

[0016] The control unit may bring the first and second treatment elements on the right side close together to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first and second treatment elements on the left side, and inflate an airbag located on the front left side of the backrest, thereby twisting the left side of the user's upper body.

[0017] The control unit may bring the first and second treatment elements on the left side close together to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first and second treatment elements on the right side, and inflate an airbag located on the front right side of the backrest, thereby twisting the right side of the user's upper body.

[0018] When the control unit uses the first and second treatment elements on the left and right to alternately grasp and massage the left and right treatment areas of the user, it is preferable that the control unit inflates an airbag arranged on the left side of the backrest and an airbag arranged on the right side of the backrest to support the upper body of the user.

[0019] The back massage mechanism may be provided with a switching unit that can switch between a "first clamping operation" in which the clamping operation of the first and second treatment elements on the right side is performed at a delayed phase relative to the phase of the clamping operation of the first and second treatment elements on the left side, and a "second clamping operation" in which the clamping operations of the first and second treatment elements on the left side and the first and second treatment elements on the right side are performed in the same phase.

[0020] During the first clamping action, the left and right first treatment elements and the second treatment elements alternately grasp and massage the left and right treatment areas of the user, and during the second clamping action, the left and right first treatment elements and the second treatment elements simultaneously grasp and massage the left and right treatment areas of the user.

[0021] The pressure massage mechanism may preferably comprise a mechanical massage mechanism having a pair of massage members, one on each side, that perform eccentric or oscillating motion, and treatment heads provided at the tips of the massage members.

[0022] The chair-type massage machine of the present invention is equipped with a configuration that allows it to apply stronger pressure to the treatment area or to grasp and stretch the treatment area, thereby allowing it to relieve stiffness in the treatment area, such as the shoulders, without causing discomfort.

[0023] 1 is a perspective view schematically showing an outline of a chair-type massage machine of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a front view schematically showing an example (cooperative massage 1) of a gripping-kneading massage action that can be controlled by a control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine; FIG. 3 is a front view schematically showing a case 1 of modified example 1 of cooperative massage 1, i.e., a case where the airbag F is inflated while gripping the right shoulder; FIG. 4 is a front view schematically showing a case 2 of modified example 1 of cooperative massage 1, i.e., a case where the airbag E is inflated while gripping the right shoulder; FIG. 5 is a front view schematically showing an example (cooperative massage 2) of a gripping-kneading massage action that can be controlled by a control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine; FIG. 6 is a front view schematically showing a case 1 of modified example 1 of cooperative massage 2, i.e., a case where the airbag E is inflated while gripping the left shoulder; and FIG. 7 is a front view schematically showing a case 2 of modified example 1 of cooperative massage 2, i.e., a case where the airbag F is inflated while gripping the left shoulder. 1 is a front view showing a schematic overview of an example (cooperative massage 3) of a gripping and kneading massage operation that can be controlled by a control unit provided in a chair-type massage machine; FIG. 2 is a front view showing a schematic overview of an example (cooperative massage 4) of a gripping and kneading massage operation that can be controlled by a control unit provided in a chair-type massage machine; FIG. 3 is a front view showing a schematic overview of an example (cooperative massage 5) of a gripping and kneading massage operation that can be controlled by a control unit provided in a chair-type massage machine; FIG. 4 is a front view showing a schematic overview of an example (cooperative massage 6) of a gripping and kneading massage operation that can be controlled by a control unit provided in a chair-type massage machine; FIG. 5 is a left side view showing a schematic overview of an example of a gripping and kneading massage operation that can be controlled by a control unit provided in a chair-type massage machine; FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a back massage mechanism, with the switching unit disassembled. 1 is a bottom view showing the gripping and kneading massage action by the back massage mechanism (left: first clamping action (alternately gripping and kneading left and right), right: second clamping action (simultaneous gripping and kneading left and right)). FIG. 2 is a front view showing the gripping and kneading massage action by the back massage mechanism (left: first clamping action (alternately gripping and kneading left and right), right: second clamping action (simultaneous gripping and kneading left and right)).

[0024] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment of a chair-type massage machine according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] The embodiment described below is an example of the present invention, and the configuration of the present invention is not limited to this specific example. In addition, in the drawings, some components are omitted and drawn using virtual lines, etc., for ease of understanding.

[0026] The directions of the chair-type massage machine 1, such as front, back, left and right, are as shown in the drawings. These directions correspond to the directions seen from a user seated in the chair-type massage machine 1. In the following description, the directions shown in the drawings will be the directions when describing the chair-type massage machine 1 of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 1 shows an example of a chair-type massage machine 1 according to the present invention.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the chair-type massage machine 1 of this embodiment has a seat 2 on which a user U sits, a backrest 3 provided at the rear of the seat 2, and a footrest 4 provided at the front of the seat 2.

[0029] In addition, the chair-type massage machine 1 of this embodiment has a back massage mechanism 5 that performs a gripping and kneading massage on the treatment areas of the user U (such as the shoulders and back), a pressure massage mechanism that performs a pressure massage on the treatment areas of the user U (such as the sides of the shoulders, sides of the upper arms, buttocks and thighs), and a control unit that coordinates the gripping and kneading massage by the back massage mechanism 5 and the pressure action by the pressure massage mechanism.

[0030] The pressure massage mechanism includes a first pressure means for pressing upward against the buttocks and thighs of the user U, a second pressure means for pressing forward against the upper body of the user U, and a third pressure means for pressing inward from the side against the upper body of the user U.

[0031] The first pressing means to the third pressing means may each be one or more airbags. In this embodiment, an airbag will be used as an example for detailed description.

[0032] The pressure massage mechanism is equipped with one or more airbags as first to third pressure means. At least one of airbags A to D of the first pressure means is disposed on the upper surface of the seat 2 and on the left and right sides of the seat 2. At least one of airbags G and H of the second pressure means is disposed on the front surface of the backrest 3. At least one of airbags E and F of the third pressure means is disposed on the left and right sides of the backrest 3.

[0033] The pressure massage mechanism may be an airbag, but the present invention can also be realized by using a mechanical massage mechanism (not shown) as the first pressure means. This mechanical massage mechanism is disposed inside the seat portion 2.

[0034] The footrest 4 is provided with a pair of left and right insertion recesses 6L, 6R into which the feet (lower legs) of the user U from below the knees can be inserted separately. A foot massaging mechanism 7 is built into the left and right insertion recesses 6L, 6R to massage the lower legs, which are one of the treatment areas. This foot massaging mechanism 7 can be, for example, a massaging plate that presses against the left and right sides of the user U's lower legs to massage them, or an airbag. The footrest 4 may also be retractable below the seat 2 by a footrest moving mechanism 8.

[0035] A frame 9 for placing the chair-type massage machine 1 on the floor is provided below the seat 2. The frame 9 is formed by combining several steel beams in a tower-like shape. The seat 2 is supported at a predetermined height by the frame 9.

[0036] The seat 2 is large enough to support the buttocks of the user U from below. The interior of the seat 2 is filled with cushioning material, making it comfortable to sit on. The outside of the seat 2 is covered with, for example, cloth. The surface (top surface) of the seat 2 is comfortable to touch when sitting on it.

[0037] In this embodiment, two airbags A and B (first pressing means) are arranged on the left and right sides of the upper surface of the seat 2 (the back side of the cloth covering the upper surface of the seat 2), constituting a seat massaging mechanism 10 (buttocks massaging mechanism 10). Airbag A is arranged on the right side of the seat 2, and applies pressure massage to the user U's right buttocks to the back of the right thigh. Airbag B is arranged on the left side of the seat 2, and applies pressure massage to the user U's left buttocks to the back of the left thigh. In other words, airbags A and B are arranged in pairs on the upper surface of the seat 2.

[0038] The seat massage mechanism 10 supplies air from an air compressor to two left and right airbags A and B, which repeatedly inflate and deflate at a predetermined rhythm, thereby applying a pressure massage from below to above to the buttocks, which are one of the treatment areas. The inflation operation of the two left and right airbags A and B will be described in detail later.

[0039] Furthermore, in this embodiment, armrests 11L, 11R on which the forearms can be placed are provided on both the left and right sides of the seat 2. Two airbags C, D (first pressing means) are arranged on the inner surfaces of the armrests 11L, 11R facing each other in the left-right direction, forming a thigh massage mechanism 12. Also, in this embodiment, arm massage mechanisms 13 are provided inside the left and right armrests 11L, 11R, respectively.

[0040] Airbag C is disposed between the left side surface of the right armrest 11R and the right side of the seat 2, and provides a pressure massage to the right thigh of the user U. Airbag D is disposed between the right side surface of the left armrest 11L and the left side of the seat 2, and provides a pressure massage to the left thigh of the user U. In other words, the two airbags C and D are arranged as a pair on the left and right sides of the seat 2, separated by the width of the seat 2.

[0041] The thigh massage mechanism 12 supplies air from an air compressor to two left and right airbags C, D, which repeatedly inflate and deflate at a predetermined rhythm, thereby applying a pressure massage to the thighs, which are one of the treatment areas, by pressing from the outside to the inside on the left and right. The inflation operation of the two left and right airbags C, D will be described in detail later.

[0042] The lower end of the backrest 3 is pivotally supported on the rear of the seat 2, allowing it to swing back and forth freely. The backrest 3 can be reclined relative to the seat 2 by a reclining mechanism made up of a linear actuator disposed within the frame 9. Inside the backrest 3, there is also provided a back massage mechanism 5 that can alternately grip and massage the left and right sides.

[0043] The back massage mechanism 5 has a pair of left and right first arm members 14 (kneading arm members 14) with first treatment elements 15 at their tips, and a pair of left and right second arm members 16 (grasping arm members 16) with second treatment elements 17 at their tips, and is configured to be able to perform a "grasping massage" in which the left and right shoulders (treatment areas) are alternately grasped and massaged by alternately moving the first treatment elements 15 and the second treatment elements 17 toward and away from each other. The detailed structure of this back massage mechanism 5 will be described later.

[0044] Furthermore, in this embodiment, side plates 18L, 18R are provided on both the left and right sides of the backrest 3. These side plates 18L, 18R are flat plates that cover the upper body of the user U from the sides. Two airbags E, F (third pressing means) are arranged inside the side plates 18L, 18R in the left and right directions, constituting a side massaging mechanism 19.

[0045] Airbag E is disposed on the right side of the backrest 3, and performs a pressure massage on the side of the right shoulder to the side of the right upper arm of the user U. Airbag F is disposed on the left side of the backrest 3, and performs a pressure massage on the side of the left shoulder to the side of the left upper arm of the user U. In other words, the two airbags E and F are arranged as a pair on the left and right sides of the backrest 3, spaced apart by the width of the backrest 3.

[0046] The side massaging mechanism 19 supplies air from an air compressor to the two left and right airbags E, F, and repeatedly inflates and deflates the left and right airbags E, F at a predetermined rhythm, thereby applying a pressure massage from the left and right to the sides of the shoulders to the sides of the upper arms, which are one of the treatment areas. The inflation operation of the two left and right airbags E, F will be described in detail later.

[0047] In this embodiment, two airbags G and H (second pressing means) are disposed on the left and right sides of the front rear side of the backrest 3, constituting a back massaging mechanism 20. The airbag G is disposed on the right side of the front of the backrest 3, and applies a pressure massage to the right side of the back of the user U, pushing from behind to the front. The airbag H is disposed on the left side of the front of the backrest 3, and applies a pressure massage to the left side of the back of the user U, pushing from behind to the front. In other words, the airbags G and H are disposed in pairs on the front of the backrest 3.

[0048] The back massaging mechanism 20 supplies air from an air compressor to two left and right airbags G, H, which repeatedly inflate and deflate at a predetermined rhythm, thereby applying a pressure massage to the back, which is one of the treatment areas, from rear to front. The inflation operation of the two left and right airbags G, H will be described in detail later.

[0049] As described above, the chair-type massage machine 1 of this embodiment has multiple massage sections (back massage mechanism 5, seat massage mechanism 10, thigh massage mechanism 12, side massage mechanism 19, back massage mechanism 20, foot massage mechanism 7, etc.) that massage various treatment areas.

[0050] In this embodiment, the chair-type massage machine 1 can apply stronger pressure to the shoulders (treatment areas) and stretch them while grabbing them. Such pressure massage can be achieved by operating the back massage mechanism 5 and the airbags A to H in cooperation with each other.

[0051] The chair-type massage machine 1 of the present invention is provided with a control unit that controls the driving of the back massage mechanism 5 and the inflation and deflation of the airbags A to H. In the present invention, the control unit is characterized by being able to coordinate the action of the back massage mechanism 5 alternately grasping and kneading the shoulders (treatment area) on the left and right sides, and the action of pressing the buttocks, thighs, upper arms, back, etc. by inflating and deflating the multiple airbags A to H.

[0052] 2A to 9, the pressure massage action (grasp and knead massage) performed by the back massage mechanism 5 in cooperation with the airbags A to H will be described below. These pressure massage actions are controlled and realized by a control unit built into the chair-type massage machine 1. In this embodiment, the pressure massage actions of [Cooperative Massage 1] to [Cooperative Massage 7] will be described in detail.

[0053] [Cooperative Massage 1] FIG. 2A is a front view schematically showing an example of a grasping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 1) that can be controlled by a control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0054] As shown in Figure 2A, the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, and inflates the airbag A located on the right side of the upper surface of the seat 2 and / or the airbag C (first pressing means) located on the right side of the seat 2, thereby performing "cooperative massage 1" which increases the treatment intensity on the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side.

[0055] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 in the backrest 3 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned to grasp the left and right shoulders. The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the right first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R closer to and farther away from each other, and then the left first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L are moved closer to and farther away from each other, thereby performing a "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and kneaded repeatedly. At this point, the user U operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to instruct the control unit to perform "cooperative massage 1."

[0056] Upon receiving the instruction for "Collaborative Massage 1," the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder (the right shoulder is in a held state, as shown by the thick line in Figure 2A), while moving the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side apart to an open state (the left shoulder is free).

[0057] Here, with the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side gripping the right shoulder, the control unit inflates at least one of the airbag A (seat massage mechanism 10) or the airbag C (thigh massage mechanism 12) on the right side of the plane of the seat 2, as shown by the bold line in Figure 2A.

[0058] That is, the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the upper right side grasp the right shoulder, and then the airbag A and / or airbag B on the lower right side are inflated (the vertical mechanism from upper right to lower right).

[0059] This causes the right side of the user U's upper body to be pushed upward, and the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R pinpoint (penetrate) into the right shoulder, which is the target treatment area, thereby providing a stronger and more effective pressure massage to the right shoulder.

[0060] In other words, when airbag A and / or airbag C inflate, the user is lifted upward, and the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side press locally on the right shoulder (acupoint pressing state).

[0061] Furthermore, even if the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side are pressed against the right shoulder of the user with excessive force, the airbag A can be depressed downward, so the acupressure state is hardly felt as "painful" and a comfortable local pressure massage can be achieved.

[0062] [Variation 1 of Collaborative Massage 1] Here, Variation 1 of Collaborative Massage 1 will be described. That is, in Collaborative Massage 1, the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side grip the right shoulder, and one of the airbags E and F arranged on the left and right sides of the backrest 3 is inflated.

[0063] [Case 1] Figure 2B shows an outline of Case 1 of Variant 1 of Collaborative Massage 1, i.e., when the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side are gripping the right shoulder while the airbag F on the left side of the backrest 3 is inflated.

[0064] As shown in Figure 2B, in the pressure massage mechanism of this modified example, the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while keeping the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side apart, and inflates the airbag F located on the left side of the backrest portion 3, thereby increasing the strength of the treatment on the grasped right shoulder.

[0065] Specifically, the first and second treatment elements 15R, 17R on the right side are brought close to each other to grip the right shoulder of the user U, while the first and second treatment elements 15L, 17L on the left side are separated from each other. The right shoulder is held by the grips of the first and second treatment elements 15R, 17R on the right side.

[0066] It is more preferable to inflate at least one of the airbag A (seat massaging mechanism 10) located on the right side of the plane of the seat 2 and the airbag C (thigh massaging mechanism 12) located on the right side of the seat 2. The body is supported by the inflation of the airbag A in the seat 2.

[0067] When the airbag F arranged on the left side of the backrest 3 is inflated, a load is applied from the left direction to the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side, so that the right shoulder is pressed more strongly, and the strength of the treatment on the grasped right shoulder is increased (the right shoulder is pressed more strongly to relieve stiffness).

[0068] [Case 2] Figure 2C shows an outline of Case 2 of Variant 1 of Collaborative Massage 1, i.e., when the right shoulder is grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side and the airbag E on the right side of the backrest 3 is inflated.

[0069] As shown in Figure 2C, in the pressure massage mechanism of this modified example, the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, and inflates the airbag E located on the right side of the backrest portion 3, thereby increasing the strength of the treatment on the grasped right shoulder.

[0070] Specifically, the first and second treatment elements 15R, 17R on the right side are brought close to each other to grip the right shoulder, while the first and second treatment elements 15L, 17L on the left side are separated from each other. The right shoulder of the user U is held by the grips of the first and second treatment elements 15R, 17R on the right side.

[0071] It is more preferable to inflate at least one of the airbag A (seat massaging mechanism 10) located on the right side of the plane of the seat 2 and the airbag C (thigh massaging mechanism 12) located on the right side of the seat 2. The body is supported by the inflation of the airbag A in the seat 2.

[0072] When the airbag E located on the right side of the backrest portion 3 is inflated, the upper body moves to the left, and the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side is stretched (lateral stretching; by sliding the grasped treatment element sideways, the right shoulder (treatment area) is stretched), thereby increasing the intensity of the treatment on the grasped right shoulder.

[0073] [Modification 2 of Collaborative Massage 1] Next, a description will be given of Modification 2 of Collaborative Massage 1. That is, a description will be given of a case where the first pressing means (pressure massage mechanism) in Collaborative Massage 1 is a mechanical massage mechanism.

[0074] The pressure massage mechanism of this modification differs from the above in that it includes a mechanical massage mechanism as the first pressure means. The mechanical massage mechanism may include, for example, a pair of massage members (arm members) on the left and right, each with a treatment head at its tip, which move back and forth inside the seat 2. The massage members may be eccentric or oscillating. Alternatively, the massage members may alternate between left and right massage operations.

[0075] The mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator (massage member) moves in an arc in the front-to-back direction (having a component of up-and-down movement). In other words, the mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator moves upward when viewed from the side.

[0076] The second pressing means (airbags G and H) and the third pressing means (airbags E and F) are the same as those described above.

[0077] The basic cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side and the right treatment element (mechanical massage mechanism) of the right massage member is approximately the same as the cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side and the right airbag A and / or airbag C described above, so will only be briefly explained.

[0078] The control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, and presses the right treatment element (first pressing means) of the right massage member arranged on the right side of the seat 2 upward against the user's right buttocks and / or right thigh, thereby performing ``cooperative massage 1'' which increases the treatment intensity on the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side.

[0079] The mechanical massage mechanism inside the seat 2 is moved forward and backward so that the right treatment element comes into contact with the right buttock, for example. The right treatment element then lifts the right buttock, pushing the upper body (right side) of the user U upward, causing the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R to pinpoint (penetrate) into the right shoulder, which is the target treatment area, and providing a stronger and more effective pressure massage to the right shoulder.

[0080] [Cooperative Massage 2] FIG. 3A is a front view schematically illustrating an example of a gripping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 2) that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0081] As shown in Figure 3A, the control unit brings the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side, and inflates the airbag B located on the left side of the upper surface of the seat 2 and / or the airbag D (first pressing means) located on the left side of the seat 2, thereby performing a "cooperative massage 2" that increases the treatment intensity on the left shoulder grasped by the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side.

[0082] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 in the backrest 3 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned to grasp the left and right shoulders. The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the left first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L closer to and farther from each other, and the right first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R closer to and farther from each other, and then, while performing the "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and kneaded repeatedly, the user U then operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to instruct the control unit to perform "cooperative massage 2."

[0083] Upon receiving the instruction for "Collaborative Massage 2," the control unit brings the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder (the left shoulder is in a held state, as shown by the bold line in Figure 3A), while moving the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side apart to an open state (the right shoulder is free).

[0084] Here, with the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side gripping the left shoulder, the control unit inflates at least one of the airbag B (seat massage mechanism 10) or the airbag D (thigh massage mechanism 12) on the right side of the plane of the seat 2, as shown by the bold line in Figure 3A.

[0085] That is, the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the upper left side grasp the left shoulder, and then the airbag B and / or airbag D on the lower left side are inflated (the vertical mechanism from upper left to lower left).

[0086] This causes the left side of the user U's upper body to be pushed upward, and the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L pinpoint (penetrate) into the left shoulder, which is the target treatment area, thereby providing a stronger and more effective pressure massage to the left shoulder.

[0087] In other words, when airbag B and / or airbag D inflate, the user is lifted upward, and the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side press locally on the left shoulder (acupoint pressing state).

[0088] Furthermore, even if the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side are pressed against the left shoulder of the user with excessive force, the airbag B can be depressed downward, so the acupressure state is hardly felt as "painful" and a comfortable local pressure massage can be achieved.

[0089] [Variation 1 of Collaborative Massage 2] Here, Variation 1 of Collaborative Massage 2 will be described. That is, in Collaborative Massage 2, the first and second massage elements 15L and 17L on the left side grip the left shoulder, and one of the airbags E and F arranged on the left and right sides of the backrest 3 is inflated.

[0090] [Case 1] Figure 3B shows an outline of Case 1 of Variation 1 of Collaborative Massage 2, i.e., when the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side grasp the left shoulder while the airbag E on the right side of the backrest 3 is inflated.

[0091] As shown in Figure 3B, in the pressure massage mechanism of this modified example, the control unit brings the first and second treatment members 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first and second treatment members 15R and 17R on the right side, and inflates the airbag E located on the right side of the backrest portion 3, thereby increasing the strength of the treatment on the grasped left shoulder.

[0092] Specifically, the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side are brought close to each other to grip the left shoulder of the user U, while the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side are separated from each other. The left shoulder of the user U is held by the grips of the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side.

[0093] It is more preferable to inflate at least one of the airbag B (seat massaging mechanism 10) located on the left side of the seat 2 or the airbag D (thigh massaging mechanism 12) located on the left side of the seat 2. The body is supported by the inflation of the airbag B in the seat 2.

[0094] When the airbag E arranged on the right side of the backrest 3 is inflated, a load is applied from the right direction to the left shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, so that the left shoulder is pressed more strongly, and the strength of the treatment on the grasped left shoulder is increased (the left shoulder is pressed more strongly to relieve stiffness).

[0095] [Case 2] Figure 3C shows an outline of Case 2 of Variant 1 of Cooperative Massage 2, i.e., when the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side are gripping the left shoulder while the airbag F on the left side of the backrest 3 is inflated.

[0096] As shown in Figure 3C, in the pressure massage mechanism of this modified example, the control unit brings the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side, and inflates the airbag F located on the left side of the backrest portion 3, thereby increasing the strength of the treatment on the grasped left shoulder.

[0097] Specifically, the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side are brought close to each other to grip the left shoulder, while the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side are separated from each other. The left shoulder of the user U is held by the grips of the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side.

[0098] It is more preferable to inflate at least one of the airbag B (seat massaging mechanism 10) located on the left side of the seat 2 or the airbag D (thigh massaging mechanism 12) located on the left side of the seat 2. The body is supported by the inflation of the airbag B in the seat 2.

[0099] When the airbag F located on the left side of the backrest portion 3 is inflated, the upper body moves to the right, and the left shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side is stretched (lateral stretching; by sliding the grasped treatment element sideways, the left shoulder (treatment area) is stretched), thereby increasing the strength of the treatment applied to the grasped left shoulder.

[0100] [Modification 2 of Cooperative Massage 2] Next, a description will be given of Modification 2 of Cooperative Massage 2. That is, a description will be given of a case in which the first pressing means (pressure massage mechanism) in Cooperative Massage 2 is a mechanical massage mechanism.

[0101] The pressure massage mechanism of this modification differs from the above in that it includes a mechanical massage mechanism as the first pressure means. The mechanical massage mechanism may include, for example, a pair of massage members (arm members) on the left and right, each with a treatment head at its tip, which move back and forth inside the seat 2. The massage members may be eccentric or oscillating. Alternatively, the massage members may alternate between left and right massage operations.

[0102] The mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator (massage member) moves in an arc in the front-to-back direction (having a component of up-and-down movement). In other words, the mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator moves upward when viewed from the side.

[0103] The second pressing means (airbags G and H) and the third pressing means (airbags E and F) are the same as those described above.

[0104] The basic cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side and the left treatment element (mechanical massage mechanism) of the left massage member is approximately the same as the cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side and the left airbag B and / or airbag D described above, so will only be briefly explained.

[0105] The control unit brings the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side, and performs a "cooperative massage 2" by pressing upward against the user's left buttocks and / or left thigh with the left treatment element (first pressing means) of the left massage member arranged on the left side of the seat 2, thereby increasing the treatment intensity on the left shoulder grasped by the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side.

[0106] The mechanical massage mechanism inside the seat 2 is moved forward and backward so that the left treatment element comes into contact with the left buttock, for example. The left treatment element then lifts the left buttock, pushing the upper body (left side) of the user U upward, causing the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L to pinpoint (penetrate) into the left shoulder, which is the target treatment area, and providing a strong and effective pressure massage to the left shoulder.

[0107] [Cooperative Massage 3] FIG. 4 is a front view schematically showing an example of a grasping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 3) that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0108] As shown in Figure 4, the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, and inflates the airbag B located on the left side of the upper surface of the seat 2 and / or the airbag D (first pressing means) located on the left side of the seat 2, thereby performing a "cooperative massage 3" that stretches the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side (stretching sideways; by sliding the grasped treatment elements sideways, the right shoulder (treatment area) is stretched).

[0109] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 in the backrest 3 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned so that they can grasp the left and right shoulders. The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the right first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R closer to and farther away from each other, and then the left first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L are moved closer to and farther away from each other, thereby performing a "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and kneaded repeatedly. At this point, the user U operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to instruct the control unit to perform "cooperative massage 3."

[0110] Upon receiving the instruction for "Collaborative Massage 3," the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder (the right shoulder is in a held state, as shown by the thick line in Figure 4), while moving the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side apart to an open state (the left shoulder is free).

[0111] Here, with the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side gripping the right shoulder, the control unit inflates at least one of the airbag B (seat massage mechanism 10) and the airbag D (thigh massage mechanism 12) arranged on the left side of the seat 2, as shown by the bold line in Figure 4.

[0112] That is, the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the upper right side grasp the right shoulder, and then the airbag B and / or airbag D on the lower left side are inflated (the diagonal mechanism from upper right to lower left).

[0113] As a result, the left side of the user U's upper body is pushed upward and tilted to the right, but because the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side are grasping the right shoulder, the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side slide sideways while still grasping the right shoulder, stretching the right shoulder (treatment area).

[0114] In addition, the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R are pinpointedly inserted into the right shoulder, so that the pressure massage can be effectively and strongly applied to the right shoulder.

[0115] In other words, when airbag B and / or airbag D inflate, the user is lifted upward, and the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side press locally on the right shoulder (acupoint pressing state).

[0116] Furthermore, even if the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side are pressed against the right shoulder of the user with excessive force, the airbag B can be depressed downward, so the acupressure state is hardly felt as "painful" and a comfortable local pressure massage can be achieved.

[0117] [Modification of the Cooperative Massage 3] Here, a modification of the cooperative massage 3 will be described. That is, a case where the first pressing means (pressure massage mechanism) in the cooperative massage 3 is a mechanical massage mechanism will be described.

[0118] The pressure massage mechanism of this modification differs from the above in that it includes a mechanical massage mechanism as the first pressure means. The mechanical massage mechanism may include, for example, a pair of massage members (arm members) on the left and right, each with a treatment head at its tip, which move back and forth inside the seat 2. The massage members may be eccentric or oscillating. Alternatively, the massage members may alternate between left and right massage operations.

[0119] The mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator (massage member) moves in an arc in the front-to-back direction (having a component of up-and-down movement). In other words, the mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator moves upward when viewed from the side.

[0120] The second pressing means (airbags G and H) and the third pressing means (airbags E and F) are the same as those described above.

[0121] The basic cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side and the left treatment element (mechanical massage mechanism) of the left massage member is approximately the same as the cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side and the airbag B and / or airbag D on the left side described above, so will only be briefly explained.

[0122] The control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, and presses the left treatment element (first pressing means) of the left massage member arranged on the left side of the seat 2 upward against the user's left buttocks and / or left thigh, thereby performing ``cooperative massage 3'' which increases the treatment intensity on the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side.

[0123] The mechanical massage mechanism inside the seat 2 is moved forward and backward so that the left treatment element comes into contact with the left buttock, for example. Then, the left buttock is lifted by the left treatment element, and the left side of the upper body of the user U is pushed upward and tilted to the right, but because the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side are still gripping the right shoulder, the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side slide sideways while still gripping the right shoulder, stretching the right shoulder (treatment area).

[0124] In addition, the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R are pinpointedly inserted into the right shoulder, so that the pressure massage can be effectively and strongly applied to the right shoulder.

[0125] [Cooperative Massage 4] FIG. 5 is a front view showing a schematic outline of an example of a gripping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 4) that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0126] As shown in Figure 5, the control unit brings the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side, and inflates the airbag A located on the right side of the upper surface of the seat 2 and / or the airbag C (first pressing means) located on the right side of the seat 2, thereby performing a "cooperative massage 4" that stretches the left shoulder grasped by the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side (stretching sideways; by sliding the grasped treatment elements sideways, the left shoulder (treatment area) is stretched).

[0127] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 in the backrest 3 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned to grasp the left and right shoulders. The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the left first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L closer to and farther from each other, and then the right first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R are moved closer to and farther from each other, thereby performing a "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and kneaded repeatedly. At this point, the user U operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to instruct the control unit to perform a "cooperative massage 4."

[0128] Upon receiving the instruction for "Collaborative Massage 4," the control unit brings the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder (the left shoulder is in a held state, as shown by the thick line in Figure 5), while moving the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side apart to an open state (the right shoulder is free).

[0129] Here, with the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side gripping the left shoulder, the control unit inflates at least one of the airbag A (seat massage mechanism 10) and the airbag C (thigh massage mechanism 12) arranged on the right side of the seat 2, as shown by the bold lines in Figure 5.

[0130] That is, the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the upper left side grasp the left shoulder, and then the airbag A and / or airbag C on the lower right side are inflated (the mechanism operates in a diagonal direction from upper left to lower right).

[0131] As a result, the right side of the user U's upper body is pushed upward and tilted to the left, but because the first and second treatment members 15L and 17L on the left side are grasping the left shoulder, the first and second treatment members 15L and 17L on the left side slide sideways while still grasping the left shoulder, stretching the left shoulder (treatment area).

[0132] In addition, the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L are pinpointedly inserted into the left shoulder, so that a stronger pressure massage can be effectively performed on the left shoulder.

[0133] In other words, when airbag A and / or airbag C inflate, the user is lifted upward, and the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side press locally on the left shoulder (acupoint pressing state).

[0134] Furthermore, even if the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side are pressed against the left shoulder of the user with excessive force, the airbag A can be depressed downward, so the acupressure state is hardly felt as "painful" and a comfortable local pressure massage can be achieved.

[0135] [Modification of Cooperative Massage 4] Here, a modification of the cooperative massage 4 will be described. That is, a case where the first pressing means (pressure massage mechanism) in the cooperative massage 4 is a mechanical massage mechanism will be described.

[0136] The pressure massage mechanism of this modification differs from the above in that it includes a mechanical massage mechanism as the first pressure means. The mechanical massage mechanism may include, for example, a pair of massage members (arm members) on the left and right, each with a treatment head at its tip, which move back and forth inside the seat 2. The massage members may be eccentric or oscillating. Alternatively, the massage members may alternate between left and right massage operations.

[0137] The mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator (massage member) moves in an arc in the front-to-back direction (having a component of up-and-down movement). In other words, the mechanical massage mechanism also includes a massage mechanism in which the massage applicator moves upward when viewed from the side.

[0138] The second pressing means (airbags G and H) and the third pressing means (airbags E and F) are the same as those described above.

[0139] The basic cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side and the right treatment element (mechanical massage mechanism) of the right massage member is approximately the same as the cooperative operation between the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side and the airbag A and / or airbag C on the right side described above, so will only be briefly explained.

[0140] The control unit brings the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first and second treatment elements 15R and 17R on the right side, and performs a "cooperative massage 4" by pressing upward against the user's right buttocks and / or right thigh with the right treatment element (first pressing means) of the right massage member arranged on the right side of the seat 2, thereby increasing the treatment intensity on the left shoulder grasped by the first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side.

[0141] The mechanical massage mechanism inside the seat 2 is moved forward and backward so that the right treatment element comes into contact with the right buttock, for example. Then, the right buttock is lifted by the right treatment element, and the right side of the upper body of the user U is pushed upward and tilted to the left, but because the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side are still gripping the left shoulder, the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side slide sideways while still gripping the left shoulder, stretching the left shoulder (treatment area).

[0142] In addition, the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L are pinpointedly inserted into the left shoulder, so that a stronger pressure massage can be effectively performed on the left shoulder.

[0143] [Cooperative Massage 5] Fig. 6 is a front view showing an example of a gripping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 5) that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. Fig. 9 is a left side view showing an example of a gripping and kneading massage action that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1.

[0144] As shown in Figures 6, 9, etc., the control unit brings the first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder of the user U, while separating the first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L on the left side, and inflates the airbag H (second pressing means) located on the left side of the backrest portion 3, thereby twisting the left side of the user U's upper body and performing a "cooperative massage 5" that increases the treatment intensity on the right shoulder grasped by the first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R on the right side.

[0145] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 in the backrest 3 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned to grasp the left and right shoulders. The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the right first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R closer to and farther from each other, and then the left first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L closer to and farther from each other, thereby performing a "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and kneaded repeatedly. At this point, the user U operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to instruct the control unit to perform a "cooperative massage 5."

[0146] Upon receiving the instruction for "Collaborative Massage 5," the control unit brings the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side close together to grasp the right shoulder (the right shoulder is in a held state, as shown by the thick line in Figure 6), while moving the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side apart to an open state (the left shoulder is free).

[0147] Here, the control unit inflates the airbag H (back massaging mechanism 20) arranged on the left side of the backrest portion 3, as shown by the thick line in Figure 6, with the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side grasping the right shoulder.

[0148] That is, the first and second massaging members 15R and 17R on the upper right side grasp the right shoulder, and then the airbag H on the left side, approximately in the center, is inflated (the diagonal mechanism from upper right to center left).

[0149] As a result, the left side of the user U's back is pushed forward, twisting the left side of the upper body. At this time, the left side of the body is stretched. The first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side slide sideways while grasping the right shoulder, stretching the right shoulder (treatment area).

[0150] In addition, the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R are pinpointedly inserted into the right shoulder, so that the pressure massage can be effectively and strongly applied to the right shoulder.

[0151] In other words, when the airbag H inflates, the left side of the user's upper body is pushed forward and twisted, and the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side press locally on the right shoulder (acupressure state).

[0152] Furthermore, even if the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side are pressed against the right shoulder of the user with excessive force, the airbag H can be recessed rearward, so the acupressure state is hardly felt as "painful" and a comfortable local pressure massage can be achieved.

[0153] [Cooperative Massage 6] FIG. 7 is a front view showing a schematic outline of an example of a gripping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 6) that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0154] As shown in Figures 7 and 9, the control unit brings the first and second treatment applicators 15L and 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder of the user U, while separating the first and second treatment applicators 15R and 17R on the right side, and inflates the airbag G (second pressing means) located on the right side of the backrest portion 3, thereby twisting the right side of the user U's upper body and performing a "cooperative massage 6" that increases the treatment intensity on the left shoulder grasped by the first and second treatment applicators 15L and 17L on the left side.

[0155] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 in the backrest 3 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned to grasp the left and right shoulders. The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the left first treatment applicator 15L and the second treatment applicator 17L closer to and farther from each other, and then the right first treatment applicator 15R and the second treatment applicator 17R are moved closer to and farther from each other, thereby performing a "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and kneaded repeatedly. At this point, the user U operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to instruct the control unit to perform a "cooperative massage 6."

[0156] Upon receiving the instruction for "Collaborative Massage 6," the control unit brings the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side close together to grasp the left shoulder (the left shoulder is in a held state, as shown by the thick line in Figure 7), while moving the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side apart to an open state (the right shoulder is free).

[0157] Here, the control unit inflates the airbag G (back massaging mechanism 20) arranged on the right side of the backrest portion 3, as shown by the thick line in Figure 7, while the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side are gripping the left shoulder.

[0158] That is, the first massaging element 15L and the second massaging element 17L on the upper left side grasp the right shoulder, and then the airbag G on the right side, approximately in the center, is inflated (the mechanism is operated in a diagonal direction from the upper left to the center right).

[0159] As a result, the right side of the user U's back is pushed forward, causing the upper body on the right side to twist. At this time, the right side of the body is stretched. The first and second treatment elements 15L and 17L on the left side slide sideways while grasping the left shoulder, stretching the left shoulder (treatment area).

[0160] In addition, the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L are pinpointedly inserted into the left shoulder, so that a stronger pressure massage can be effectively performed on the left shoulder.

[0161] In other words, when the airbag G inflates, the right side of the user's upper body is pushed forward and twisted, and the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side press locally on the left shoulder (acupoint pressing state).

[0162] Furthermore, even if the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side are pressed against the left shoulder of the user with excessive force, the airbag G can be recessed rearward, so the acupressure state is hardly felt as "painful" and a comfortable local pressure massage can be achieved.

[0163] [Cooperative Massage 7] FIG. 8 is a front view showing a schematic outline of an example of a gripping and kneading massage action (cooperative massage 7) that can be controlled by the control unit provided in the chair-type massage machine 1. As shown in FIG.

[0164] As shown in Figure 8, when the control unit uses the left and right first treatment elements 15L, 15R and the second treatment elements 17L, 17R to alternately grasp and massage the left and right shoulders of the user U, it inflates the airbags E, F (third pressing means) provided on the left and right sides of the backrest portion 3 to perform a "cooperative massage 7" that holds the upper body of the user U.

[0165] That is, the "cooperative massage 7" suppresses the lateral swinging of the upper body that occurs when the first treatment applicators 15L, 15R and the second treatment applicators 17L, 17R alternately grasp and massage the shoulders.

[0166] Specifically, the back massage mechanism 5 is moved so that the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the right and left second treatment applicators 17R, 17L are positioned to grasp the left and right shoulders. When the left first treatment applicator 15L and the right second treatment applicator 17L are moved toward and away from each other, and then the right first treatment applicator 15R and the right second treatment applicator 17R are moved toward and away from each other to perform a "grasp and massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and massaged repeatedly, the upper body of the user U leaning against the backrest 3 sways from side to side due to the influence of the swinging of the left and right first arm members 14L, 14R and the right second arm members 16L, 16R.

[0167] To prevent the above-mentioned situation, the user U operates the controller of the chair-type massage machine 1 to issue a command to the control unit to perform a "cooperative massage 7." Upon receiving the command to perform a "cooperative massage 7," the control unit inflates the airbags E and F (side massaging mechanism 19) provided on the left and right sides of the backrest 3, as shown by the bold lines in Figure 8, to support the upper body of the user U.

[0168] The back massage mechanism 5 is driven to move the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side closer to and farther from each other, and then the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side closer to and farther from each other, thereby performing a "grab and massage" in which the left and right shoulders are alternately and repeatedly grabbed and massaged.

[0169] As described above, the chair-type massage machine 1 of the present invention has a control unit that controls the cooperative operation of "the action of alternately grabbing and kneading the shoulders (treatment area) on the left and right sides using the back massage mechanism 5" and "the pressing action on the buttocks, thighs, upper arms, back, etc. using the multiple airbags A to H (seat massage mechanism 10 (first pressing means), thigh massage mechanism 12 (first pressing means), side massage mechanism 19 (third pressing means), back massage mechanism 20 (second pressing means), etc.)," ​​thereby making it possible to apply stronger pressure to the treatment area including the shoulders, or to grab and stretch the shoulders, as in "cooperative massage 1" to "cooperative massage 7," thereby relieving stiffness in the treatment area such as the shoulders, without causing discomfort.

[0170] Next, the configuration of the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment will be described. Although various massage mechanisms can be used to realize the cooperative massage of the present invention, the following describes a preferred back massage mechanism 5. Note that the embodiment of the back massage mechanism 5 described below is merely an example and does not limit the configuration of the present invention.

[0171] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the back massage mechanism 5, with the switching unit 26 disassembled. Fig. 11 is a bottom view showing the gripping and kneading massage action by the back massage mechanism 5 (left: first clamping action (alternately gripping and kneading left and right), right: second clamping action (simultaneous gripping and kneading left and right)). Fig. 12 is a front view showing the gripping and kneading massage action by the back massage mechanism 5 (left: first clamping action (alternately gripping and kneading left and right), right: second clamping action (simultaneous gripping and kneading left and right)).

[0172] As shown in Figures 10 to 12, the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment can perform a "first clamping action" in which the left and right first treatment applicators 15 and second treatment applicators 17 alternately grasp and massage the left and right shoulders (treatment areas) of the user U, and a "second clamping action" in which the left and right first treatment applicators 15 and second treatment applicators 17 simultaneously grasp and massage the left and right shoulders of the user U.

[0173] Furthermore, the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment can be stopped in a state where the first treatment element 15 and the second treatment element 17 grip either the left or right shoulder of the user U.

[0174] The back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment includes a drive unit 22 mounted on a base 21 and generating a rotational drive force, a rotary drive shaft 23 mounted on the base 21 with its axis facing left and right and rotated by the rotational drive force, massage units 24 equipped with treatment elements 15, 17 at their tip ends and mounted in a pair on the left and right sides of the base 21, a conversion unit 25 mounted on the rotary drive shaft 23 and converting the rotational drive force into a clamping motion (oscillating motion) and transmitting it to the massage unit 24, and a switching unit 26 that switches the phase of the clamping motion of the massage unit 24 depending on whether the rotary drive shaft 23 is rotated forward or backward.

[0175] In this embodiment, the switching unit 26 is provided on the right massage part 24R side. That is, the phase of the clamping action of the right massage part 24R is switched with respect to the phase (constant phase) of the clamping action of the left massage part 24L.

[0176] As shown in Figure 10, the drive unit 22 has a drive motor 27 that outputs a rotational drive force and a gear case 28 that reduces the output rotational drive force to a predetermined speed. The drive motor 27 is a motor that can rotate forward and backward. The rotation direction, speed, etc. of the drive motor 27 are controlled by a control unit. That is, the drive unit 22 reduces the rotational drive force generated by the drive motor 27 using the gear case 28 and transmits it to the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0177] The rotary drive shaft 23 penetrates the base 21 (gear case 28) and is disposed so that its axis faces the left-right direction (horizontal direction). The rotary drive shaft 23 is a long, round rod-shaped shaft member and is supported via bearings or the like so that its rotation direction can be freely switched. The rotary drive shaft 23 is disposed perpendicular to the output shaft of the drive motor 27.

[0178] That is, the rotary drive shaft 23 is provided with the drive unit 22 in the middle of its longitudinal direction and the massage units 24L, 24R at its left and right ends. The rotary drive shaft 23 distributes and transmits the rotational drive force output from the drive motor 27 to the pair of left and right massage units 24L, 24R.

[0179] 10, in this embodiment, "forward rotation" refers to rotation from rear to up to front, and "reverse rotation" refers to rotation from front to up to rear regarding the rotation of the rotary drive shaft 23. Regarding the definition of the rotation of the rotary drive shaft 23, forward and reverse may be reversed.

[0180] 10, the massage unit 24 includes a right massage unit 24R for massaging the right treatment area and a left massage unit 24L for massaging the left treatment area. The massage unit 24 also includes a pair of upper and lower arm members 14, 16.

[0181] The right massage portion 24R will now be described. Note that the left massage portion 24L has a configuration that is a mirror image of the right massage portion 24R, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0182] The right massage section 24R has a first arm member 14R (massage arm member 14R) that performs a kneading massage on the upper right side of the shoulder, and a second arm member 16R (grab arm member 16R) that performs a grab massage on the lower right side of the shoulder.

[0183] 10, the first arm member 14R on the right side (massage arm member 14R) has a tip end that protrudes forward and a base end that is provided with a first right annular fitting portion 33R. This first right annular fitting portion 33R constitutes a right conversion portion 25R, which will be described later, and fits over a first right rotation boss portion 32R from the outside.

[0184] The rotary drive shaft 23 is disposed in a penetrating state at the base end (first right annular fitting portion 33R) of the first arm member 14R. On the other hand, the tip end of the first arm member 14R is provided with a first treatment element 15R (upper treatment element 15R) that enables kneading massage of the shoulders.

[0185] Furthermore, a ball joint 29 is provided at the base end of the first arm member 14R. The ball joint 29 is rotatably connected to the tip of a connecting shaft 30. The base end of the connecting shaft 30 is rotatably connected to a rotating shaft 31. The rotating shaft 31 is connected to a second drive motor 52 disposed within the base 21.

[0186] As a result, when the rotary shaft 31 is rotated by the rotational driving force output from the second drive motor 52, the first arm member 14R swings back and forth via the ball joint portion 39 and the connecting shaft 30, so that a tapping massage can also be performed by the first treatment element 15R. In other words, the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment is equipped with a tapping massage mechanism that can also perform a tapping massage with the first arm member 14R.

[0187] The first treatment element 15R is attached to the tip of the first arm member 14R, which protrudes forward. The first treatment element 15R is a spherical member, and is attached so as to be rotatable around an axis that faces the protruding direction of the tip and an axis that faces in a direction intersecting the protruding direction.

[0188] The first treatment element 15R is positioned vertically opposite the second treatment element 17R (described later). The first treatment element 15R swings left and right, and the second treatment element 17R moves up and down toward and away from the first treatment element 15R. In other words, the first treatment element 15R performs a kneading massage on the upper right shoulder as the first arm member 14R swings due to the rotational driving force of the rotation drive shaft 23.

[0189] 10, a first converter 25 is provided on the base end side of the first arm member 14, which converts the rotational driving force into swinging motion and transmits it to the first arm member 14. The first converter 25 is made up of a first right converter 25R which converts the rotational driving force into swinging motion of the first arm member 14R on the right side, and a first left converter 25L which converts the rotational driving force into swinging motion of the first arm member 14L on the left side.

[0190] The first right conversion portion 25R has a first right rotation boss portion 32R that is attached to the rotary drive shaft 23 and rotates integrally with the rotary drive shaft 23, a first right annular fitting portion 33R that is provided at the base end of the first arm member 14R and fits over the first right rotation boss portion 32R, and a first right regulating portion 34R that regulates the first arm member 14R from rotating together with the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0191] The first left conversion section 25L has a configuration that is a mirror image of the first right conversion section 25R, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0192] The first right rotation boss 32R is a member provided on the right end side of the rotary drive shaft 23 and on the base end side of the first arm member 14R. The first right rotation boss 32R is a member provided with a small-diameter cylindrical member on the outside and a disk-shaped cylindrical member on the inside. The outer cylindrical member is provided eccentrically and inclined with respect to the rotary drive shaft 23. An outer cam surface 35 is formed around the outer peripheral surface of the outer cylindrical member.

[0193] That is, the outer cam surface 35 revolves around the axis of the rotary drive shaft 23 while being eccentric and inclined relative to the axial direction of the rotary drive shaft 23. The first right annular fitting portion 33R slidably fits onto the outer cam surface 35 from the outside, allowing the first arm member 14R to swing (rotate) freely relative to the rotary drive shaft 23. When the rotary drive shaft 23 is rotated, the outer cam surface 35 describes an orbit that is eccentric with respect to the axis of the rotary drive shaft 23 and swings left and right.

[0194] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a small-diameter cylindrical member is provided inside the disk-shaped cylindrical member that constitutes the first right rotation boss portion 32R. An inner cam surface 36 is formed around the outer peripheral surface of the inner cylindrical member.

[0195] That is, the inner cam surface 36 revolves around the axis of the rotary drive shaft 23 while being eccentric with respect to the axial direction of the rotary drive shaft 23. A slider 42R, which will be described later, is slidably fitted onto the inner cam surface 36 from the outside, allowing the second arm member 14R to move forward and backward in the front-to-rear direction relative to the rotary drive shaft 23. When the rotary drive shaft 23 is rotated, the inner cam surface 36 describes an orbit that is eccentric with respect to the axis of the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0196] A first right annular fitting portion 33R is provided on the base end side of the first arm member 14R. The first right annular fitting portion 33R is formed so as to be able to fit from the outside onto the outer cam surface 35 of the first right rotation boss portion 32R. When the first right annular fitting portion 33R fits onto the outer cam surface 35 of the first right rotation boss portion 32R, the first arm member 14R rotates around the axis of the first right rotation boss portion 32R.

[0197] The first right restricting portion 34R of this embodiment is made up of a ball joint portion 27, a connecting shaft 28, and a rotating shaft 29, which constitute the hitting massage mechanism. The tip of the connecting shaft 28 is rotatably connected to the ball joint portion 27, and the base end of the connecting shaft 28 is constrained to the rotating shaft 29. This configuration forms the first right restricting portion 34R, which restricts the first arm member 14R from rotating together with the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0198] 10, a second arm member 16R (grasping arm member 16R) that applies a gripping massage action to the shoulders is provided inside the right first arm member 14R. The second arm member 16R is provided so as to extend forward (toward the shoulders) from the back massage mechanism 5 side.

[0199] The second arm member 16R is a flat plate-shaped member, and has a through-hole 37 at its base end, the axis of which faces the left-right direction. A restricting pin 44 constituting the second right restricting portion 41R (described later) is inserted through the through-hole 37.

[0200] The tip of the second arm member 16R is provided with a second treatment element 17R (upper treatment element 17R) that can grasp and massage the shoulders. This second treatment element 17R is a member formed in the shape of a horizontal cylinder.

[0201] The second treatment element 17R is provided at a position facing the first treatment element 15R in the vertical direction. The second treatment element 17R moves toward and away from the first treatment element 15R in the vertical and front-to-back directions relative to the first treatment element 15R, which swings left and right. In other words, the second treatment element 17R grasps and massages the center of the right shoulder as the second arm member 16R moves forward and backward in the vertical and front-to-back directions due to the rotational driving force of the rotation drive shaft 23.

[0202] 10, a guide groove 38R for guiding a slider 42R (described later) is formed in the middle of the second arm member 16R in the longitudinal direction. The guide groove 38R is a hole with an opening facing the left-right direction and a generally rectangular shape in side view.

[0203] The guide groove 38R allows the second arm member 16R to move back and forth in the up-down and front-rear directions. In this embodiment, the guide groove 38R is a rectangular space. A slider 42R that can slide back and forth within the guide groove 38R is fitted into the guide groove 38R. That is, the rotary drive shaft 23 is disposed in a state where it penetrates the base end (guide groove 38R) of the second arm member 16R via the slider 42R.

[0204] Further, a second converter 39 is provided on the base end side of the second arm member 16, which converts the rotational driving force into forward and backward movement in the up and down and front and rear directions and transmits it to the second arm member 16. The second converter 39 is made up of a second right converter 39R which converts the rotational driving force into forward and backward movement in the up and down and front and rear directions of the right second arm member 16R, and a second left converter 39L which converts the rotational driving force into forward and backward movement in the up and down and front and rear directions of the left second arm member 16L.

[0205] The second right conversion portion 39R has a first right rotation boss portion 32R (inner cam surface 36) that is attached to the rotary drive shaft 23 and rotates integrally with the rotary drive shaft 23, a second right annular fitting portion 40R that is provided at the base end of the second arm member 16R and fits externally onto the inner cam surface 36 of the first right rotation boss portion 32R, and a second right regulating portion 41R that regulates the second arm member 16R from rotating together with the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0206] The second left conversion section 39L has a configuration that is a mirror image of the second right conversion section 39R, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0207] As shown in Figure 10, the slider 42R is a pair of thin plates provided on the left and right sides of the guide groove 38R of the second arm member 16R. The end of the slider 42R that faces the outside of the second arm member 16R is flange-shaped. The slider 42R also has a side wall surface 43 that abuts against the long edge (long side) of the guide groove 38R.

[0208] A circular through-hole 40R with an opening facing the left-right direction is formed in the center of the slider 38R. This through-hole 40R serves as a second right annular fitting portion 40R that fits onto the inner cam surface 36 provided on the first right rotation boss portion 32R.

[0209] That is, the slider 42R is inserted so that its side wall surface 43 slidably contacts the long edge of the guide groove 38R, its flange contacts the second arm member 16R, and the inner cam surface 36 of the first right rotation boss 32R is slidably fitted into the second right annular fitting portion 40R. As the side wall surface 43 slides along the long edge of the guide groove 38R, the slider 42R moves along the guide groove 38R, causing the second arm member 16R to move back and forth in both the up-down and front-rear directions.

[0210] The second right regulating portion 41R has a regulating pin 44 that regulates the swing direction of the second arm member 16R, a through hole 37 through which the regulating pin 44 passes, and a regulating hole into which the regulating pin 44 is inserted.

[0211] The regulating pin 44 passes through the through hole 37 provided at the base end of the second arm member 16R and is inserted into the regulating hole provided in the gear case 28, thereby connecting the second arm member 16R to the main body side of the back massage mechanism 5, making it free to rotate around the axis of the regulating pin 44 and restricting it from rotating together with the rotation drive shaft 23.

[0212] Here, we will briefly explain the left massage unit 24L. The left massage unit 24L has a first arm member 14L (massage arm member 14L) that performs a kneading massage on the upper left side of the shoulder, and a second arm member 16L (grab arm member 16L) that performs a gripping massage on the lower left side of the shoulder. A first treatment element 15L is provided at the tip of the first arm member 14L. A second treatment element 17L is provided at the tip of the second arm member 16L.

[0213] As shown in FIG. 10, the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment is provided with a switching unit 26 that enables switching between the phases of the clamping action of the left and right massage units 24, i.e., between the two clamping (grasping and kneading) actions.

[0214] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the switching unit 26 can switch between a "first clamping operation" in which the clamping operation of the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side is performed at a delayed phase relative to the phase of the clamping operation of the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side, and a "second clamping operation" in which the clamping operation of the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L on the left side and the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R on the right side is performed in the same phase.

[0215] In this embodiment, the switching unit 26 is provided in the right conversion unit 25R, 39R. Note that the switching unit 26 may also be provided in the left conversion unit 25L, 39L of the left massage unit 24L.

[0216] 10 , the switching unit 26 of this embodiment includes a switching shaft 45 attached to the rotary drive shaft 23, a hook 46 provided on the outer circumferential surface of the switching shaft 45, and a hook groove 47 into which the hook 46 slidably fits. In this embodiment, the switching unit 26 employs a "half-rotation clutch mechanism" that switches the phase of the clamping (grasping and kneading) action of the right massage part 24R by rotating the switching shaft 45 provided on the rotary drive shaft 23 a half rotation in the forward direction or a half rotation in the reverse direction, and then delaying the movement of the right massage part 24R. However, the "half-rotation clutch mechanism 26" is intended to include rotations other than a half rotation (180°).

[0217] The switching shaft 45 is a cylindrical member that is attached so as to cover the rotary drive shaft 23. The switching shaft 45 rotates together with the rotary drive shaft 23. The switching shaft 45 rotates a half-turn in the forward or reverse direction together with the rotary drive shaft 23, and then rotates the first right rotation boss portion 32R. A protruding hook portion 46 is formed on the outer periphery of the switching shaft 45 on the radially outward side.

[0218] The hook portion 46 of this embodiment is a plate-shaped member that is provided along the outer periphery of the switching shaft 45 and is long in the axial direction of the switching shaft 45 (rotation drive shaft 23). In other words, the hook portion 46 can be said to be a curved bulging piece that follows a hook groove portion 47 described later.

[0219] 10 , the hook portion 46 is a curved member having a side wall of the same arc shape as the outer circumferential curved surface of the switching shaft 45 and two end walls 48, 49. The first end wall 48 is a first engagement surface 48 that engages with a first rotation switching portion 50 of the hook groove portion 47 during forward rotation of the rotary drive shaft 23. The second end wall 49 is a second engagement surface 49 that engages with a second rotation switching portion 51 of the hook groove portion 47 during reverse rotation of the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0220] That is, the hook portion 46 is shaped to fit into the hook groove portion 47, and has a length (height) in the front-rear direction that is approximately the same as that of the hook groove portion 47. The hook portion 46 slides within the hook groove portion 47 around the axis of the switching shaft 45 (rotation drive shaft 23).

[0221] In the present embodiment, the hook groove portion 47 is a groove having a crescent-shaped (C-shaped) track that goes around the outer periphery of the switching shaft 45 (rotational drive shaft 23) in a side cross-sectional view. The hook groove portion 52 is provided along the outer periphery of the switching shaft 53, and is a long (deep) groove in the axial direction of the switching shaft 45 (rotational drive shaft 23).

[0222] That is, the hook groove portion 47 is a curved groove that is the same arc as the outer circumferential curved surface of the hook portion 46. Also, the hook groove portion 47 is a curved groove that follows the hook portion 46. That is, the hook groove portion 47 has a shape that the hook portion 46 fits into, and the length (depth) in the front-to-rear direction is approximately the same as the height of the hook portion 46.

[0223] The hook groove portion 47 is an arc-shaped groove that goes around the outer periphery of the switching shaft 45 and forms a track with two end walls. These two end walls, i.e., side wall portions 50 and 51, serve as rotation switching portions 50 and 51 that switch the rotation of the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0224] When the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates forward or backward, the rotation switching units 50, 51 engage the half-rotated hook portion 46, thereby delaying the operation of the right conversion units 25R, 39R and switching the clamping operation of the right massage unit 24R.

[0225] In this embodiment, one end of the semicircular hook groove 47 is the first rotation switching unit 50. The first rotation switching unit 50 is a component that delays the operation of the first right conversion unit 25R and the second right conversion unit 39R relative to the operation of the first left conversion unit 25L and the second left conversion unit 39L during forward rotation of the rotary drive shaft 23.

[0226] That is, when the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates forward, the hook portion 46 of the switching shaft 45 rotates half a rotation in the forward direction around the axis of the rotary drive shaft 23, and then the first engagement surface 48 of the hook portion 46 engages with the first rotation switching portion 50, causing the first right rotary boss portion 32R to start rotating half a rotation later than the rotation of the first left rotary boss portion, thereby delaying the operation of the first right converter portion 25R and the second right converter portion 39R relative to the operation of the first left converter portion 25L and the second left converter portion 39L, and switching the right massage portion 24R to the "first clamping operation".

[0227] 11 and 12, when the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates in the forward direction (rear-up-front), a first clamping action is performed in which the left and right shoulders are alternately grasped and massaged. During this first clamping action, the first treatment elements 15L, 15R and the second treatment elements 17L, 17R grasp and massage the left and right shoulders (treatment areas) of the user U alternately.

[0228] Specifically, as the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates forward, the switching unit 26 switches to the first clamping operation. While the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates half a turn forward around its axis, the movement of the right massage member 24R is temporarily stopped. After the switching shaft 45 rotates half a turn, the first engagement surface 48 of the hook portion 46 engages with the first rotation switching unit 50 in the hook groove portion 47, and the paused massage member 24R starts moving (delayed operation). The switching unit 26 switches the right massage member 24R to a clamping operation phase that lags behind the clamping operation phase of the left massage member 24L, thereby performing the first clamping operation (alternate left and right gripping and kneading massage).

[0229] The other end of the semicircular hook groove 47 is the second rotation switching part 51. The second rotation switching part 51 is a part for synchronizing the operation of the first right conversion part 25R and the second right conversion part 39R with the operation of the first left conversion part 25L and the second left conversion part 39L when the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates in the reverse direction.

[0230] In other words, when the rotation drive shaft 23 rotates in the reverse direction, the hook portion 46 of the switching shaft 45 rotates half a turn in the reverse direction around the axis of the rotation drive shaft 23, and then the second engagement surface 49 of the hook portion 46 engages with the second rotation switching portion 51, causing the first right rotation boss portion 32R to start rotating together with the first left rotation boss portion, and by combining the operations of the first right conversion portion 25R and the second right conversion portion 39R and the first left conversion portion 25L and the second left conversion portion 39L, the right massage portion 24R is switched to the ``second clamping operation.''

[0231] 11 and 12, when the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates in the reverse direction (forward-upward-backward), a second clamping action is performed to simultaneously grasp and massage the left and right shoulders. During this second clamping action, the first treatment elements 15L, 15R and the second treatment elements 17L, 17R simultaneously grasp and massage the left and right shoulders (treatment areas) of the user U.

[0232] Specifically, when the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates in the reverse direction, the switching unit 26 switches to the second clamping operation. While the rotary drive shaft 23 rotates half a turn in the reverse direction around its axis, the movement of the right massage member 24R is temporarily stopped. After the switching shaft 45 rotates half a turn, the second engagement surface 49 of the hook portion 46 engages with the second rotation switching unit 51 in the hook groove portion 47, and the paused right massage member 24R starts moving (a delayed operation). The switching unit 26 switches the phase of the clamping operation of the right massage portion 24R and the left massage portion 24L to the same phase, thereby performing the second clamping operation (simultaneous left and right gripping and kneading massage).

[0233] In other words, the switching unit 26 can be said to be a delay mechanism that changes the timing of clamping between the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L (left massage unit 24L) on the left side and the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R (right massage unit 24R) on the right side, and this timing difference allows for alternate left and right gripping and kneading massages.

[0234] As described above, the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment can be switched by the switching unit 26 between a "first clamping action" in which the left and right shoulders are gripped and massaged alternately, and a "second clamping action" in which the left and right shoulders are gripped and massaged simultaneously, thereby enabling an effective gripping and massaging action to relieve stiffness in the treatment area such as the shoulders.

[0235] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the control unit of the chair-type massage machine 1 controls the coordinated operation of the back massage mechanism 5 to alternately grab and massage the left and right shoulders, and the airbags A to H to press against the buttocks, thighs, upper arms, back, etc., so that, as in "Cooperative Massage 1" to "Cooperative Massage 7," it is possible to apply stronger pressure to the treatment areas including the shoulders, or to grab and stretch the shoulders, thereby relieving stiffness in the treatment areas such as the shoulders.

[0236] [Modifications] In the chair-type massage machine 1 of the present invention described above, the embodiment in which the pressure massage mechanism is composed of one or more airbags has been described in detail and specifically. That is, the cooperative actions "Cooperative Massage 1" to "Cooperative Massage 7" of the back massage mechanism 5 and the airbags A to H have been described in detail. Furthermore, modifications of "Cooperative Massage 1" to "Cooperative Massage 4" have also been described in detail. The modifications are summarized as follows:

[0237] In this modification, the pressure massage mechanism, particularly the pressure massage mechanism provided on the upper surface of the seat 2, may be a mechanical massage mechanism having a pair of oscillating massage members on the left and right, and treatment elements attached to the tips of the massage members. The massage members may be eccentric or oscillating. The massage members may also alternate between left and right massage positions.

[0238] For example, in the massage operation of the back massage mechanism 5 of this embodiment, the first treatment element 15R provided at the tip of the first right arm member 14R and the second treatment element 17R provided at the tip of the second right arm member 16R may move toward and away from each other in the vertical direction to grasp and massage the right shoulder. In addition, the first treatment element 15R and the second treatment element 17R may perform a swinging motion that describes a loop-shaped trajectory.

[0239] The first treatment element 15L provided at the tip of the first arm member 14L on the left side and the second treatment element 17L provided at the tip of the second arm member 16L on the left side may move towards and away from each other in the vertical direction to perform a gripping and kneading massage on the left shoulder. In addition, the first treatment element 15L and the second treatment element 17L may perform a swinging motion that describes a loop-shaped trajectory.

[0240] In this way, the back massage mechanism 5 swings the left and right first arm members 14R, 14L and the second arm members 16R, 16L in a looping motion up and down and left and right, alternately or simultaneously moving the first treatment applicator 15R and second treatment applicator 17R on the right side, which are lined up vertically, closer to and farther away from each other, and the first treatment applicator 15L and second treatment applicator 17L on the left side, which are lined up vertically, closer to and farther away from each other.

[0241] Further, for example, the left and right first treatment applicators 15R, 15L and the left and right second treatment applicators 17R, 17L may be configured to perform tapping massage.

[0242] The mechanical massage mechanism includes a drive source such as an electric motor and a rotary shaft that is rotated by the drive source. A pair of left and right massage members are eccentrically mounted on the rotary shaft or mounted via an inclined cam. The mechanical massage mechanism may move back and forth inside the seat 2.

[0243] When a pair of left and right massage members are provided eccentrically, the massage members (in other words, the arm members) move back and forth in the vertical direction relative to the upper surface of the seat 2, so that the massage applicators attached to the ends of the massage members push the user's buttocks upward. Note that when pushing up the buttocks, the left and right massage applicators may push up the left and right buttocks alternately. Therefore, the same action and effect as that of airbags A to H pushing up the user's buttocks in "Cooperative Massage 1" to "Cooperative Massage 4" is achieved.

[0244] When a pair of left and right massage members are arranged via an inclined cam, the massage members oscillate in an undulating manner, and the treatment elements move toward and away from each other, for example, in a loop. As a result, the treatment elements attached to the ends of the massage members have an upward movement component, which pushes the user's buttocks upward, achieving the same action and effect as airbags A to H pushing the user's buttocks upward in "Cooperative Massage 1" to "Cooperative Massage 4."

[0245] Furthermore, in the chair-type massage machine 1 of the present invention, if a mechanical massage mechanism is positioned at the position of the airbags G, H, that is, if two mechanical massage mechanisms are arranged in the backrest portion 3, a so-called double mechanical type, the back massage mechanism 5 can grasp the shoulders and the massage member of the lower massage mechanism of the double mechanical type can be moved forward, thereby pressing the user's back forward, thereby realizing "cooperative massage 5" and "cooperative massage 6".

[0246] In other words, the chair-type massage machine 1 of the present invention has a control unit that controls the cooperative operation of "the action of alternately grabbing and kneading the shoulders (treatment area) on the left and right sides using the back massage mechanism 5" and "the action of performing a pressure massage using the mechanical massage mechanism (first pressing means), side massaging mechanism 19 (third pressing means), and back massaging mechanism 20 (second pressing means)", thereby enabling cooperative massage such as applying stronger pressure to the treatment area including the shoulders or stretching the shoulders while grabbing them, and thereby performing stretching treatments on the body, such as relieving stiffness in the treatment area such as the shoulders, without causing any discomfort.

[0247] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. In particular, matters not explicitly stated in the embodiments disclosed herein, such as operating conditions, operation conditions, dimensions and weights of components, etc., do not deviate from the scope of ordinary practice by a person skilled in the art, and are matters that can be easily assumed by a person skilled in the art.

[0248] For example, the control by the control unit that coordinates the action of the back massage mechanism 5 alternately grasping and kneading the shoulders (treatment area) on the left and right sides, and the pressing action against the buttocks, thighs, upper arms, back, etc. by the inflation and deflation of multiple airbags A to H, i.e., [Cooperative Massage 1] to [Cooperative Massage 7], as described above in detail, is just one example and is not limited to the illustrated example, and can be changed as appropriate taking into account the treatment range.

[0249] In addition, the length of the first arm member 14 and the second arm member 16 provided in the back massage mechanism 5, the inclination angle of the kneading arm member 14 relative to the rotation drive shaft 23, and the distance between the first arm member 14 and the second arm member 16 on the left and right can be changed as appropriate in consideration of the treatment range.

[0250] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Chair-type massage machine 2 Seat 3 Backrest 5 Back massage mechanism 10 Seat massage mechanism 12 Thigh massage mechanism 14R First arm member 14L First arm member 15R First treatment element 15L First treatment element 16R Second arm member 16L Second arm member 17R Second treatment element 17L Second treatment element 19 Side massaging mechanism 20 Back massaging mechanism 23 Rotation drive shaft 24R Right massage unit 25R First right conversion unit 26 Switching unit 32R First right rotation boss unit 33R First right annular fitting unit 34R First right regulating unit 35 Outer cam surface 36 Inner cam surface 38R Guide groove unit 39R Second right conversion unit 40R Second right annular fitting unit 41R Second right regulating unit 42R Slider 45 Switching shaft 46 Hook portion 47 Hook groove portion 48 First engagement surface (first end wall) 49 Second engagement surface (second end wall) 50 First rotation switching portion 51 Second rotation switching portion A Airbag (right side of seat) B Airbag (left side of seat) C Airbag (right side of seat) D Airbag (left side of seat) E Airbag (right side of backrest) F Airbag (left side of backrest) G Airbag (right side of backrest) H Airbag (left side of backrest) U User

Claims

1. A chair-type massage machine having a seat on which a user sits, a backrest provided at the rear of the seat, a back massage mechanism provided on the backrest for performing a gripping and kneading massage on the areas of the user to be treated, and a pressure massage mechanism for performing a pressure massage on the user, wherein the chair-type massage machine is provided with a control unit for coordinating the gripping and kneading massage by the back massage mechanism and the pressure action by the pressure massage mechanism.

2. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1, wherein the pressure massage mechanism has one or more airbags.

3. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 2, characterized in that the back massage mechanism has a pair of left and right first arm members with a first treatment element at its tip, and a pair of left and right second arm members with a second treatment element at its tip, and is configured to be able to perform a "grasp and knead massage" in which the left and right treatment elements are alternately grasped and kneaded by alternately moving the first treatment element and the second treatment element toward and away from each other, and the airbag is arranged on at least one of the upper surface of the seat, the side of the seat, the side of the backrest, and the front surface of the backrest.

4. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side close to each other to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side, and increases the treatment intensity for the grasped right treatment element by inflating an airbag arranged on the right side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag arranged on the right side of the seat.

5. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side close to each other to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side, and increases the treatment intensity for the grasped right treatment element by inflating either an airbag arranged on the left side of the backrest or an airbag arranged on the right side of the backrest.

6. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side close to each other to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side, and increases the treatment intensity for the grasped left treatment element by inflating an airbag arranged on the left side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag arranged on the left side of the seat.

7. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side close to each other to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side, and increases the treatment intensity for the grasped left treatment element by inflating either an airbag arranged on the left side of the backrest or an airbag arranged on the right side of the backrest.

8. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side close to each other to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side, and inflates an airbag arranged on the left side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag arranged on the left side of the seat, thereby stretching the grasped right treatment element.

9. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side close to each other to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side, and inflates an airbag arranged on the right side of the upper surface of the seat and / or an airbag arranged on the right side of the seat, thereby stretching the grasped left treatment element.

10. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side close together to grasp the right treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side, and inflates an airbag arranged on the front left side of the backrest portion to impart a twist to the left side of the user's upper body.

11. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that the control unit brings the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the left side close together to grasp the left treatment element of the user, while separating the first treatment element and the second treatment element on the right side, and inflates an airbag arranged on the front right side of the backrest portion to impart a twist to the right side of the user's upper body.

12. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 3, characterized in that when the first and second treatment elements alternately grasp and massage the left and right treatment areas of the user, the control unit inflates an airbag arranged on the left side of the backrest and an airbag arranged on the right side of the backrest to support the upper body of the user.

13. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 3, characterized in that the back massage mechanism is provided with a switching unit that can switch between a "first clamping action" in which the clamping action of the first and second treatment elements on the right side is performed with a delayed phase relative to the phase of the clamping action of the first and second treatment elements on the left side, and a "second clamping action" in which the first and second treatment elements on the left side and the first and second treatment elements on the right side are performed with the same phase clamping action.

14. The chair-type massage machine described in claim 13, characterized in that during the first clamping action, the left and right first treatment applicators and the second treatment applicators alternately grasp and knead the left and right treatment areas of the user, and during the second clamping action, the left and right first treatment applicators and the second treatment applicators simultaneously grasp and knead the left and right treatment areas of the user.

15. The chair-type massage machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the pressure massage mechanism comprises a mechanical massage mechanism having a pair of massage members on the left and right that perform eccentric or oscillating motion, and treatment heads attached to the tips of the massage members.

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