Muscle electrical stimulation device

Abstract

Provided is a muscle electrical stimulation device with which posture during swinging can be easily stabilized while obtaining an effect of promoting movement of muscles of a user.　An upper surface 11 of a muscle electrical stimulation device 1 is provided with a footrest part 2 on which both feet of the user are placed, and at least one pair of electrodes 3 disposed on the footrest part 2. The muscle electrical stimulation device 1 has a control part configured to be able to supply power to the electrodes 3. A lower surface 12 of the muscle electrical stimulation device 1 is provided with a ground part 5 which bulges farther downward than a front end 121 and a rear end 122 of the lower surface 12. A ratio L / α of a displacement amount L of a contact position on the floor surface between the ground part 5 and the floor surface with respect to a change amount α of an angle of the muscle electrical stimulation device 1 when the muscle electrical stimulation device 1 swings in the front-rear direction while the ground part 5 is kept in contact with the floor surface is within a range of 1-5 mm / °.

Description

Electrical muscle stimulation device

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

[0002] The electrical muscle stimulation device has electrodes that come into contact with the user's body. The electrical muscle stimulation device passes a weak current through the user's body via the electrodes. This allows electrical stimulation to be applied to the user's muscles.

[0003] For example, by providing electrodes to the foot exerciser described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2002-224191, it is expected that the exercise of the user's legs, feet, or ankles can be promoted. Here, this foot exerciser has a top plate on which the user places their feet and a bottom plate that is placed on the floor or the like. This foot exerciser is also configured to be swingable in the front-to-back direction.

[0004] The foot exerciser disclosed in JP 2002-224191 A has a bottom plate that includes a flat connecting plate and a curved plate for swinging the foot exerciser. The connecting plate is configured to contact the floor when the user is not applying weight to the top plate. Therefore, when a user uses the foot exerciser to exercise their feet, they must press the top plate with their toes or heels to lift the connecting plate off the floor, and then adjust the weight to swing the foot exerciser.

[0005] However, when a user's muscles are electrically stimulated using an electrical muscle stimulation device, the muscles contract at a timing different from the user's intention. Therefore, when using an electrical muscle stimulation device that swings back and forth, the device may swing at a timing unexpected by the user due to muscle contraction caused by electrical stimulation. This can make such an electrical muscle stimulation device difficult to use. Furthermore, users who are not accustomed to electrical stimulation or who have relatively low muscle strength and therefore cannot easily adjust the position of the electrical muscle stimulation device may find it difficult to maintain the connecting plate above the floor. For such users, adjusting the load to swing the electrical muscle stimulation device back and forth after lifting the connecting plate above the floor can also be difficult.

[0006] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure has been made in view of the above background. That is, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an electrical muscle stimulation device that is easy for a user to use and that can promote the exercise of the user's leg muscles.

[0007] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to be able to apply electrical stimulation to the muscles of a user, and includes a footrest section provided on the upper surface of the electrical muscle stimulation device for placing both feet of the user, at least one pair of electrodes provided on the footrest section, a control section configured to be able to supply power to the electrodes, and a ground contact section that bulges downward from the front and rear ends of the underside of the electrical muscle stimulation device, the ground contact section being configured to be able to swing back and forth while in contact with the floor surface, and configured to assume a reference position when the ground contact section is placed on the floor surface and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest section, and in the reference position, both the front and rear ends of the electrical muscle stimulation device are spaced apart from the floor surface.

[0008] The electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) device has a contact portion on its underside that bulges downward from the front and rear ends of the underside. The EMS device is configured to assume a reference position when the contact portion is placed on the floor and the user's feet are not placed on the footrests. In this reference position, both the front and rear ends of the EMS device are spaced apart from the floor. Therefore, when a user uses the EMS device, the front and rear ends of the EMS device can be spaced apart from the floor without applying load to the footrests with the toes or heels. Furthermore, the user can easily swing the EMS device in either the forward or backward direction from the above-described position. Therefore, the user can easily swing the EMS device even when electrical stimulation is being applied to the muscles.

[0009] Therefore, according to the above embodiment, it is possible to provide an EMS device that is easy for the user to handle and can promote the exercise of the muscles in the user's legs.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an EMS device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a top view of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a left side view of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a right side view of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a method for measuring a displacement amount of a contact position when the EMS device according to the first embodiment is swung. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an example of a storage state of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a control unit of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an operation of the EMS device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a rear view of an EMS device according to a second embodiment, which has a hemispherically bulging ground portion. FIG. 12 is a rear view of an EMS device according to the second embodiment, which has two hemispherically bulging ground portions. FIG. 13 is a rear view of an EMS device according to the second embodiment, which has two semi-cylindrically bulging ground portions. FIG. 14 is a side view of the EMS device in Comparative Example 1. FIG.

[0011] The EMS device is used, for example, with the ground contacting the floor and with both feet of a user seated on a chair, sofa, etc. placed on the footrest. For convenience, in this specification, the up / down, front / back, and left / right directions of the EMS device are displayed based on the orientation of the EMS device when used in this manner.

[0012] In other words, the direction in which the footrest and the ground-contact portion of the EMS device are aligned is referred to as the height direction of the EMS device. The direction from the ground-contact portion to the footrest in the height direction is referred to as the upward direction. The direction from the footrest to the ground-contact portion in the height direction is referred to as the downward direction. Furthermore, when a user places their foot on the footrest, the direction in which the part on which the toes of the foot are placed and the part on which the heel is placed is referred to as the front-to-back direction. In the front-to-back direction, the direction from the heel to the toes is referred to as the forward direction. In the front-to-back direction, the direction from the toes to the heel is referred to as the backward direction. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to both the front-to-back direction and the height direction is referred to as the lateral direction. In the lateral direction, the side on which the left foot is placed is referred to as the left side. In the lateral direction, the side on which the right foot is placed is referred to as the right side.

[0013] The method of using the EMS device is not limited to the above-described manner. The EMS device may be configured so that it can be used in a manner other than the above-described manner. In this case, it is also possible to use the EMS device in a position where the above-described up-down direction, front-back direction, or left-right direction does not match the actual up-down direction, etc. during use.

[0014] The EMS device assumes a reference position when the contact portion is placed on the floor and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest. In this reference position, both the front and rear ends of the EMS device are separated from the floor. That is, the EMS device is configured so that when the contact portion is placed on the floor, only the contact portion is in contact with the floor. Therefore, the user does not need to continuously apply weight to the footrest with their toes or heels to separate the front and rear ends of the EMS device from the floor. Therefore, even users with relatively low muscle strength can easily use the EMS device. Furthermore, the EMS device configured in this manner can easily swing back and forth even while EMS is being performed. Therefore, even users who are not accustomed to electrical muscle stimulation can easily use the EMS device.

[0015] The EMS device preferably has a center of gravity above the contact portion with the floor in the reference position and the contact portion with the floor. In this case, after the EMS device is swung back and forth from the reference position, the EMS device is more likely to return to the reference position. Therefore, the EMS device can more easily stabilize its position when swung back and forth. As a result, the EMS device can be more easily handled.

[0016] The EMS device has a footrest on the top surface thereof for placing the user's feet. The footrest is also provided with at least one pair of electrodes for applying electrical stimulation to the user's muscles. This embodiment includes various embodiments in which the number, arrangement, and shape of the electrodes provided on the footrest are different. For example, the EMS device may have a pair of electrodes consisting of a first electrode and a second electrode. Here, the first electrode is provided at a position that contacts one of the user's feet. The second electrode is provided at a position that contacts the other of the user's feet. In this case, the first electrode and the second electrode may each be shaped to contact the entire user's foot or to contact a portion of the user's foot. The EMS device may also have two or more pairs of electrodes. In this case, for example, multiple first electrodes can be provided on the footrest at a position that contacts one of the user's feet. At the same time, multiple second electrodes can be provided on the footrest at a position that contacts the other of the user's feet.

[0017] The EMS device may have a raised portion provided around the footrest portion and raised above the electrodes. In this case, even if the EMS device is oriented with the electrodes facing downward for some reason, it is possible to prevent both the first electrode and the second electrode from coming into contact with the floor. Therefore, in this case, it is easy to prevent unintentional current flow when the EMS device is not in use.

[0018] The shape and position of the raised portion in the EMS device are not particularly limited. The shape and position of the raised portion can take various forms. For example, the raised portion may be provided so as to be positioned on the outer side of the user's foot when the user places the foot on the footrest. In this case, when the user places the foot on the footrest of the EMS device, the user can easily determine the position of the foot on the footrest using the raised portion as a guide. Furthermore, the raised portion can easily restrict the displacement of the user's foot. Therefore, the position of the user's foot is less likely to shift while using the EMS device. As a result, the usability of the EMS device can be further improved.

[0019] Furthermore, the raised portion provided to be positioned on the outside of the user's foot may have a recessed portion on the inside in the lateral direction that is recessed from the surrounding area. In this case, when the user carries the EMS device, the user can hook their fingers in the recessed portion provided on the raised portion and easily carry the EMS device.

[0020] Furthermore, for example, the raised portion may be provided so as to be positioned between the user's feet when the user places them on the footrest. In this case, too, when the user places their feet on the footrest of the EMS device, the user can use the raised portion as a guide to easily determine the position of their feet on the footrest. As a result, the usability of the EMS device can be further improved.

[0021] Furthermore, for example, the EMS device may have a first protruding portion and a second protruding portion as the protruding portion. In this case, the first protruding portion is provided so as to be positioned on the outer side of the user's feet when the user's feet are placed on the footrest. Furthermore, the second protruding portion is provided so as to be positioned between the user's feet when the user's feet are placed on the footrest. In this case, preferably, the first protruding portion and the second protruding portion are spaced apart from each other. In this case, when the user places their feet on the footrest of the EMS device, the user can easily determine the position of their feet on the footrest using the protruding portion as a guide. Furthermore, the protruding portion makes it easier to restrict the displacement of the user's feet. Therefore, the position of the user's feet is less likely to shift during use of the EMS device.

[0022] Furthermore, by providing the EMS device with the first raised portion and the second raised portion, for example, when a user places their calves on the raised portions while seated to perform EMS, the user can easily determine the position of their calves on the footrest using the first raised portion and the second raised portion as guides. The raised portions also help to restrict the displacement of the user's calves. Therefore, the user's calves are less likely to shift position while using the EMS device. As a result, the usability of the EMS device can be further improved.

[0023] When the EMS device has the first protrusion and the second protrusion, the distance between the front end of the first protrusion and the front end of the second protrusion is preferably wider than the distance between the rear end of the first protrusion and the rear end of the second protrusion. In this case, the first protrusion and the second protrusion can be arranged to follow the shape of the user's foot. Therefore, the above-mentioned effect can be more reliably obtained. From the same viewpoint, the distance between the first protrusion and the second protrusion preferably increases as it approaches the front.

[0024] The grounding portion of the EMS device has a shape that bulges downward from the front and rear ends of the underside of the EMS device. The grounding portion may be configured so that the EMS device can swing at least in the front-to-rear direction. That is, the grounding portion may be configured so that the EMS device can swing only in the front-to-rear direction. Alternatively, the grounding portion may be configured so that the EMS device can swing in multiple directions including the front-to-rear direction.

[0025] More specifically, the grounding portion of the EMS device may have a shape such that at least a portion of the contour thereof is arcuate when the EMS device is viewed from the side. For example, the grounding portion may have a hemispherical bulge on the underside of the EMS device. In this case, the EMS device may be provided with a single bulge. This allows for an EMS device that can swing in multiple directions, including the front-to-rear direction. Alternatively, for example, the EMS device may be provided with multiple bulges arranged laterally at intervals. This allows for an EMS device that can swing only in the front-to-rear direction.

[0026] The grounding portion may have a semi-cylindrical bulge over a part or the entire lateral direction on the underside of the EMS device, thereby providing an EMS device that can swing only in the front-rear direction.

[0027] When the ground contact portion of the EMS device is placed on the floor so that the height from the floor to the front end of the underside of the EMS device is equal to the height from the floor to the rear end of the underside of the EMS device, the EMS device assumes a specific reference posture. At this time, the height from the floor to the front end of the underside of the EMS device is preferably 50 mm or less. In this case, when a user places their feet on the footrest, the burden on the ankles can be further reduced. From the same perspective, the height from the floor to the front end of the underside of the EMS device in the specific reference posture is preferably 40 mm or less, more preferably 35 mm or less.

[0028] In addition, the height from the floor to the front end of the underside of the EMS device in the specific reference posture is preferably 10 mm or more, more preferably 25 mm or more. In this case, the user can swing the EMS device back and forth appropriately. This further enhances the effect of promoting exercise.

[0029] When the height from the floor surface to the front end of the underside of the EMS device is set within a desired range, the above-mentioned upper and lower limits of the height can be appropriately combined. For example, the height from the floor surface to the front end of the underside of the EMS device in the specific reference posture may be 50 mm or less, 10 mm to 40 mm, or 25 mm to 35 mm.

[0030] When the EMS device swings back and forth while the contact portion is in contact with the floor surface, the ratio L / α of the displacement L of the contact position between the contact portion and the floor surface to the change in angle α of the EMS device is 1 mm / ° or more and 5 mm / ° or less. The contact portion preferably has a shape such that the ratio L / α falls within this range. When the ratio L / α of the EMS device is 1 mm / ° or more, the change in posture of the EMS device when swinging back and forth is more gradual. As a result, the posture of the EMS device can be more easily stabilized even when electrical stimulation is applied to the user's muscles. From the viewpoint of more easily stabilizing the posture of the EMS device, the value of the ratio L / α is preferably 1.2 mm / ° or more, more preferably 1.4 mm / ° or more, and even more preferably 1.6 mm / ° or more.

[0031] Furthermore, when the ratio in the EMS device is 5 mm / ° or less, when the EMS device swings back and forth, the user can moderately flex and extend their ankles, etc., and further promote muscle movement. From the viewpoint of further enhancing the effect of promoting muscle movement in the user, the value of the ratio L / α is preferably 4.5 mm / ° or less, more preferably 4.0 mm / ° or less, and even more preferably 3.5 mm / ° or less.

[0032] In order to set the value of the ratio L / α in the EMS device within a desired range, the upper and lower limits of the value of the ratio L / α can be appropriately combined. For example, the value of the ratio L / α may be in the range of 1.2 mm / ° to 4.5 mm / °, 1.4 mm / ° to 4.0 mm / °, or 1.6 mm / ° to 3.5 mm / °.

[0033] The ratio L / α is calculated as follows: First, the ground contact portion of the EMS device is brought into contact with the floor surface, and the EMS device is stabilized in an appropriate position. The contact position between the ground contact portion and the floor surface and the position of the EMS device at this time are recorded. Then, while maintaining the contact state between the ground contact portion and the floor surface, the EMS device is swung forward or backward so as not to cause the ground contact portion to slip on the floor surface. Then, the contact position between the ground contact portion and the floor surface and the position of the EMS device after the swing are recorded.

[0034] The distance recorded in this manner from the contact position between the ground contact part and the floor surface before the swing to the contact position between the ground contact part and the floor surface after the swing is defined as the displacement L (unit: mm). Furthermore, the amount of change in the angle of the attitude of the EMS device after the swing, based on the attitude of the EMS device before the swing, is defined as the angle change α (unit: °). The angle change α before and after the swing of the EMS device may be measured at any part of the EMS device. For example, the angle change α before and after the swing may be measured based on the position of the footrest, the first electrode, or the second electrode of the EMS device. Furthermore, the angle change α before and after the swing may also be measured based on, for example, an imaginary line connecting the front end and the bottom end of the upper surface of the EMS device or an imaginary line connecting the front end and the bottom end of the lower surface of the EMS device.

[0035] Furthermore, in a side view of the EMS device, at least a portion of the contour of the ground contact portion is arc-shaped. The radius of curvature of the arc-shaped portion is preferably 58 mm to 285 mm, more preferably 75 mm to 200 mm, and even more preferably 100 mm to 160 mm. In this case, the EMS device can swing back and forth while the arc-shaped portion is in contact with the floor surface. This prevents abrupt changes in the posture of the EMS device. Furthermore, the effect of promoting muscle exercise in the user can be more reliably achieved.

[0036] The EMS device may have a stand at a lateral end thereof. The stand may have a stand surface perpendicular to the lateral direction of the EMS device. In this case, when storing the EMS device, the EMS device can be placed upright with the stand surface in contact with the floor surface. This reduces the area occupied by the EMS device during storage. This further improves the usability of the EMS device. Furthermore, by placing the EMS device upright with the stand surface in contact with the floor surface, dirt or dust is less likely to adhere to the surfaces of the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0037] The EMS device may include a heater. The heater is configured to heat the footrest. In this case, the body of the user placed on the footrest is heated. This allows the user to relax their muscles. This is expected to further enhance the exercise effect. Furthermore, by heating the body of the user placed on the footrest, sweating from the user's body can be promoted. By promoting sweating from the user's body, the electrical resistance between the first and second electrodes provided on the footrest and the user's body can be further reduced by sweat. As a result, electrical stimulation can be more easily applied to the user's muscles.

[0038] The arrangement and configuration of the heater in the EMS device are not particularly limited. The arrangement and configuration of the heater can take various forms. For example, the heater may be attached to the back surface of the footrest inside the EMS device. Alternatively, the heater may be embedded in the footrest or the electrode. Furthermore, the footrest or the electrode may be formed from a heating element. This allows these parts themselves to generate heat.

[0039] The control unit of the EMS device is configured to apply electrical stimulation to the user's muscles by power supplied to the electrodes. The manner of electrical stimulation applied by the control unit is not particularly limited and can take various forms. For example, the control unit may be configured to switch between supplying and stopping power to the electrodes. This allows pulsed electrical stimulation to be applied to the user's muscles. Furthermore, the control unit may be configured to periodically change the potential of the electrodes. This allows periodic electrical stimulation to be applied to the user's muscles.

[0040] The control unit may be configured to control the operation of the entire EMS device in addition to switching between supplying and stopping power to the electrodes. For example, the control unit may be configured to communicate with a wearable terminal. The wearable terminal is configured to acquire vital data, such as the user's body temperature or sweat rate. That is, the control unit may be configured to control the supply of power to the electrodes based on the data acquired by the wearable terminal. The control unit may also be configured to acquire information regarding the usage status of the EMS device, including the number of times or duration of EMS use by the user. In addition, the control unit may be configured to transmit this information regarding the usage status of the EMS device to a server. The operation of the control unit may be realized, for example, by an electronic circuit or a program stored in a microcomputer.

[0041] The EMS device may have a power supply unit that supplies power necessary for the operation of the EMS device. The specific form of the power supply unit is not particularly limited. For example, the power supply unit may be a primary battery, a secondary battery, or a power storage device such as a capacitor.

[0042] When the EMS device has a power storage device as a power source, the EMS device preferably has a power terminal at a lateral end thereof for charging the power storage device. The lateral end of the EMS device is a portion to which a load is unlikely to be applied when a user performs EMS. Therefore, the power terminal provided at the lateral end of the EMS device can easily prevent unnecessary load from being applied to the power terminal while the EMS device is in use.

[0043] The EMS device preferably has stand units on both lateral ends. A power terminal is provided on the stand surface of at least one of the stand units. In this case, when the EMS device is set upright so that the stand surface without the power terminal is in contact with the floor, the power storage device can be charged by the power terminal provided on the other stand surface. This further improves the usability of the EMS device.

[0044] In this case, the EMS device can be placed upright on a stand that has contacts for connecting to a power supply terminal. This allows the power storage device to be charged while the EMS device is placed upright. This reduces the area occupied by the EMS device during charging. As a result, the usability of the EMS device can be further improved.

[0045] First Embodiment An EMS device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. The EMS device 1 is configured to apply electrical stimulation to a user's muscles. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 1 is provided with foot rests 2 (2L, 2R) on which the user's feet are placed and at least one pair of electrodes 3 (3L, 3R). At least one pair of electrodes 3 (3L, 3R) is provided on the foot rest 2. As shown in FIG. 9, the EMS device 1 also includes a control unit 4. The control unit 4 is configured to supply power to the electrodes 3. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 to 6, the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 1 is provided with a ground contact portion 5 that bulges downward from a front end 121 and a rear end 122 of the lower surface 12. As shown in FIG. 7, the EMS device 1 is configured to be swingable in the front-to-rear direction while the ground contact portion 5 remains in contact with the floor surface. The EMS device 1 is configured to assume a reference position when the ground contact portion 5 is placed on the floor surface F and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest portion 2. In this reference position, both the front end 121 and the rear end 122 of the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 1 are separated from the floor surface F.

[0046] 2 , the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 1 has a rectangular shape. On the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 1, there are provided foot rests 2 (2L, 2R), a first electrode 3L and a second electrode 3R as electrodes 3, a raised portion 6, an operation panel 13 used to operate the EMS device 1, and a display panel 14 used to display the operating state of the EMS device 1.

[0047] The footrest 2 is provided in the center of the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 1. The EMS device 1 has two footrests 2: a first footrest 2L corresponding to the user's left foot and a second footrest 2R corresponding to the user's right foot. The two footrests 2 have a central portion 21 in the front-to-rear direction that protrudes upward beyond a portion 22 corresponding to the toes and a portion 23 corresponding to the heel. Furthermore, the footrest 2 has a gently curved shape. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , a portion of the footrest 2 corresponding to the user's arch, i.e., a bulge 24 that bulges upward, is provided on the inside of the central portion in the front-to-rear direction. Thus, the footrest 2 of the EMS device 1 has a shape that corresponds to the arch shape of the user's foot. Therefore, the user can place their foot on the footrest 2 while maintaining the arch shape of their foot.

[0048] 2, of the two footrests 2, a first footrest 2L for placing the left foot is provided with a first electrode 3L. A second footrest 2R for placing the right foot is provided with a second electrode 3R. More specifically, the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R are provided in a portion of each footrest 2 excluding the bulge 24. The first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R are electrically connected to a control unit 4 provided in the EMS device 1 as shown in FIG. 4. In this way, the EMS device 1 is configured to apply electrical stimulation to the user's muscles using power supplied from the control unit 4.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 1 , a raised portion 6 is provided around each footrest 2, raised above the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the EMS device 1 is provided with a first raised portion 61 and a second raised portion 62 as the raised portion 6. The first raised portion 61 is provided so as to be located on the outer side of the user's foot when the user places the foot on the footrest 2, i.e., on the outer side of each footrest 2 in the lateral direction. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , when the EMS device 1 is in a specific reference posture, the first raised portion 61 is highest at the center in the front-to-rear direction. The height of the first raised portion 61 decreases as the distance from the center in the front-to-rear direction increases. Thus, when the EMS device 1 is in a specific reference posture, the first raised portion 61 has a mountain-like shape.

[0050] As shown in Figure 2, of the two first protrusions 61 (61L, 61R), the first protrusion 61R located on the right side has a recess 611 that is recessed deeper than the surrounding area on its inner lateral side, i.e., the part that faces the user's foot.

[0051] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first raised portion 61 is provided in the lateral direction of the EMS device 1, extending from the outside of the footrest portion 2 to both ends of the lateral direction of the EMS device 1, and is connected to the stand portion 7 described later.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2 , the second raised portion 62 is provided between the user's feet when the user places their feet on the footrest portion 2, i.e., between the first footrest portion 2L and the second footrest portion 2R. Like the first raised portion 61, the second raised portion 62 is highest at the center in the front-to-rear direction when the EMS device 1 is in the specific reference posture. The height of the second raised portion 62 decreases as the distance from the center in the front-to-rear direction increases. Thus, when the EMS device 1 is in the specific reference posture, the second raised portion 62 has a mountain-like shape. Furthermore, the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62 are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction.

[0053] In addition, in the EMS device 1, the distance between the front end of the first raised portion 61 and the front end of the second raised portion 62 is wider than the distance between the rear end of the first raised portion 61 and the rear end of the second raised portion 62.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 2 , an operation panel 13 used to operate the EMS device 1 is provided at the center of the second raised portion 62. The specific configuration of the operation panel 13 is not particularly limited. For example, the operation panel 13 of the EMS device 1 has three operation switches arranged side by side in the front-to-rear direction. These operation switches are electrically connected to a control unit 4 in the EMS device 1 as shown in FIG. 9 . A user can generate operation signals used to operate the EMS device 1 by operating the operation switches. The operation signals generated by the operation switches are input to the control unit 4. This allows the user to control the operation of the EMS device 1 via the operation panel 13. The operation signals generated by the operation switches include, for example, a signal to start applying electrical stimulation, a signal to stop applying electrical stimulation, a signal to change the intensity of the electrical stimulation, and a signal to change the exercise control program. The control unit may be configured so that these operation signals are generated by a single operation switch. Alternatively, separate operation switches may be provided for each type of operation signal.

[0055] 2, a display panel 14 that displays the operating status of the EMS device 1 is provided in front of the operation panel 13 on the second raised portion 62. As shown in FIG. 9, the display panel 14 is electrically connected to the control unit 4 in the EMS device 1. In this manner, the display panel 14 is configured to be able to display the operating status of the EMS device 1 based on instructions from the control unit 4. The specific configuration of the display panel 14 is not particularly limited. The display panel 14 in the EMS device 1 is configured to be able to display, for example, the operating mode of the EMS device 1, the intensity of the electrical stimulation, and the remaining charge of the built-in battery.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 to 6 , the EMS device 1 has a grounding portion 5 on its underside 12. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the grounding portion 5 of the EMS device 1 is located in the center of the EMS device 1 in the front-to-rear direction. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 , the grounding portion 5 extends across the entire lateral direction of the EMS device 1. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the outline of the grounding portion 5 in a cross section perpendicular to the lateral direction has a downwardly convex arc shape with its apex at the center of the EMS device 1 in the front-to-rear direction. The radius of curvature of the outline of the grounding portion 5 in a cross section perpendicular to the lateral direction is smallest at the apex. The radius of curvature gradually increases as the distance from the apex in the front-to-rear direction increases. The radius of curvature of the outline of the grounding portion 5 of the EMS device 1 is, for example, approximately 115 mm.

[0057] In addition, the portion of the underside 12 of the EMS device 1 from the grounding portion 5 to the front end 121 and the portion from the grounding portion 5 to the rear end 122 have a curved shape so that the outline in a cross section perpendicular to the lateral direction is an upwardly convex arc.

[0058] 4 and 5 , the EMS device 1 is configured to assume a reference posture when the ground contact portion 5 is placed on the floor surface F and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest portion 2. In this reference posture, both the front end 121 and the rear end 122 of the underside 12 of the EMS device 1 are spaced apart from the floor surface F. In addition, the EMS device 1 has its center of gravity above the portion of the ground contact portion 5 that is in contact with the floor surface F in the reference posture (contact portion).

[0059] More specifically, the EMS device 1 may be configured so that, in the reference posture, the height from the floor surface F to the front end 121 of the lower surface 12 is equal to the height from the floor surface F to the rear end 122 of the lower surface 12. In this case, the height from the floor surface F to the front end 121 of the lower surface 12 in the reference posture is, for example, about 30 mm.

[0060] Furthermore, when the EMS device 1 swings back and forth while the ground contact part 5 is in contact with the floor surface, the ratio L / α of the displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact part 5 and the floor surface on the floor surface to the change α in the angle of the EMS device 1 is, for example, approximately 2 mm / °. The specific method for calculating the value of the ratio L / α is as follows.

[0061] First, as shown in Fig. 7 , the EMS device 1 is swung forward from the reference posture, as indicated by the dashed line, and is held in a posture P1 in which both the front end 121 of the lower surface 12 and the ground contact portion 5 are in contact with the floor surface F. At this time, a contact position C1 of the floor surface F with the ground contact portion 5 is recorded. A contact position C2 of the lower surface 12 with the floor surface F is also recorded. A contact position C3 of the ground contact portion 5 with the floor surface F is also recorded.

[0062] Next, the EMS device 1 is held in a posture P2 in which both the rear end 122 of the underside 12 of the EMS device 1, which has been swung backward, and the ground contact portion 5 are in contact with the floor F so as to prevent the ground contact portion 5 from slipping on the floor F. A contact position C4 between the floor F and the ground contact portion 5 at this time is recorded. Then, the displacement L from the contact position C1 on the floor F to the contact position C4 on the floor F is measured. In the EMS device 1, the displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact portion 5 and the floor F obtained in this manner is, for example, approximately 40 mm.

[0063] Furthermore, in an attitude P2 in which both the rear end 122 of the EMS device 1 and its ground contact portion 5 are in contact with the floor surface F, the angle formed by the line L1 connecting the contact position C2 of the underside 12 and the contact position C3 of the ground contact portion 5, and the floor surface F, is measured. The measured angle is defined as the angle change amount α of the EMS device 1. In the EMS device 1, the angle change amount α obtained in this manner is, for example, approximately 20°. Therefore, the ratio L / α of the EMS device 1 is, for example, approximately 2 mm / °, which is obtained by dividing the displacement amount L of the contact position by the angle change amount α.

[0064] 1 to 3, stand units 7 (7L, 7R) are provided at both lateral ends of the EMS device 1. Each stand unit 7 has a stand surface 71 that is perpendicular to the lateral direction of the EMS device 1. The EMS device 1 is configured so that it can be placed upright with the stand surface 71 facing downward.

[0065] Of the two stand sections, the first stand section 7L provided on the left side may be provided with two power supply terminals including a first power supply terminal 72 and a second power supply terminal 73 as shown in FIG. 4 . These power supply terminals are electrically connected to a power storage device serving as a power supply unit 41 provided within the EMS device 1. In this manner, these power supply terminals are used to charge the power storage device. More specifically, when the EMS device 1 is placed on the stand 8 shown in FIG. 8 , the first power supply terminal 72 comes into contact with a contact portion 82 provided on the stand 8. Then, power is supplied to the power supply unit 41 via the contact portion 82. Furthermore, the second power supply terminal 73 is configured so that power can be supplied to the power supply unit 41 via a power adapter.

[0066] Of the two stands 7L, 7R, the second stand 7R provided on the right side holds a remote controller 74 for operating the EMS device 1 in a detachable manner, as shown in Figures 5 and 8. The remote controller 74 in the EMS device 1 is configured to be capable of wireless communication with the control unit 4. As with the operation panel 13, the user can operate the remote controller 74 to instruct the control unit 4 of the EMS device 1 to perform a desired operation.

[0067] The EMS device 1 may be configured to be accommodated in a stand. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 , the EMS device 1 is configured to be placed upright on a stand 8 having an accommodating recess 81. Here, the accommodating recess 81 corresponds to the first stand 7L. A contact portion 82 is provided at the center of the accommodating recess 81 in the stand 8. The contact portion 82 is configured to come into contact with the first power terminal 72 of the EMS device 1.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 9 , the EMS device 1 includes a control unit 4, a power supply unit 41, a contact detection unit 42, a communication unit 43, and a heater 44. The power supply unit 41 is configured to supply power to the control unit 4. The contact detection unit 42 is configured to determine the contact state between the electrodes 3 and the user's body. The communication unit 43 is configured to communicate between the control unit 4 and external devices. The heater 44 is configured to be able to heat the footrest 2. Although not shown in the figure, the heater 44 is provided on the back surface of the footrest 2 inside the EMS device 1. The heater 44 is configured to generate heat using power supplied from the control unit 4. This allows the heater 44 to heat the footrest 2.

[0069] 9, the control unit 4 is connected to the operation panel 13, the display panel 14, the power supply unit 41, the contact detection unit 42, the communication unit 43, the heater 44, the first electrode 3L, and the second electrode 3R. In this manner, the control unit 4 is configured to be able to control the operation of the entire EMS device 1, including the supply of power to the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R. The control unit 4 may be configured, for example, by an electronic circuit or a microcomputer.

[0070] The control unit 4 of this example is also configured to apply voltage to the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R in accordance with a pre-stored exercise control program. In this way, electrical stimulation having a predetermined pattern can be applied to the user's muscles. Examples of exercise control programs include an exercise control program aimed at increasing muscle strength, an exercise control program aimed at exercise simulating walking, and an exercise control program aimed at muscle conditioning.

[0071] The control unit 4 may be configured to be able to implement one exercise control program. Alternatively, the control unit 4 may be configured to be able to implement one exercise control program selected from a plurality of exercise control programs. For example, the control unit 4 in this example is configured to select one of three exercise control programs, including an exercise control program aimed at increasing muscle strength, an exercise control program aimed at exercise simulating walking, and an exercise control program aimed at muscle conditioning, and to implement the selected exercise control program.

[0072] The specific operation of the control unit 4 will be described later.

[0073] The contact detection unit 42 is connected to the control unit 4, the first electrode 3L, and the second electrode 3R. The contact detection unit 42 is configured to distinguish between a state in which both the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R are in contact with the user's body (electrode contact state) and a state in which at least one of the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R is separated from the user's body (electrode separation state). In this manner, the contact detection unit 42 can notify the control unit 4 of whether the determination result is the electrode contact state. The contact detection unit 42 may include, for example, a current sensor that measures the current flowing through the first electrode 3L and the current flowing through the second electrode 3R. When both the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R are in contact with the user's body, if a voltage is applied to these electrodes 3, a current flows through a circular current path that includes these electrodes 3 and the user's body. Therefore, in this case, the contact detection unit 42 can distinguish between the electrode contact state and the electrode separation state based on the magnitude of the current measured by the current sensor. Furthermore, for example, the contact detection unit 42 can input the magnitude of the current measured by the current sensor to the control unit 4, and notify the control unit 4 of the determination result as to whether or not the electrodes are in contact with each other.

[0074] The power supply unit 41 is connected to the control unit 4 and is configured to supply the control unit 4 with the power required for its operation. The EMS device 1 has a power storage device as the power supply unit 41. The EMS device 1 is also configured to be able to charge the power supply unit 41 via a first power supply terminal 72 or a second power supply terminal 73 provided on the first stand 7L. The EMS device 1 may also be configured so that the power supply unit 41 is charged by a non-contact charging system.

[0075] The communication unit 43 is configured to enable communication between the control unit 4 and the external device. The content of communication in the communication unit 43 is not particularly limited. For example, the communication unit 43 may be configured to transmit data stored in the control unit 4 or a training history to the external device. The communication unit 43 may also be configured to receive, from the external device, a command related to the operation of the EMS device 1 or a command related to a change in setting information. The communication unit 43 may also be configured to perform wired communication with the external device. Furthermore, the communication unit 43 may also be configured to perform wireless communication with the external device.

[0076] Next, an example of the method of use and operation of the EMS device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. When using the EMS device 1, for example, the user operates the operation panel 13 or the remote controller 74 while placing both feet on the footrest 2 of the EMS device 1. This activates the EMS device 1 (step S1). Next, the user operates the operation panel 13 or the remote controller 74 as necessary to select the type of exercise control program (step S2).

[0077] When the EMS device 1 is activated, the control unit 4 supplies power to the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R to apply a pulsed voltage to both electrodes (step S3). At this time, the control unit 4 generates a potential difference between the first electrode 3L having a first polarity and the second electrode 3R having a second polarity different from the first polarity. Furthermore, the contact detection unit 42 measures the current flowing through the first electrode 3L and the current flowing through the second electrode 3R when the voltage is applied in step S3 (step S4).

[0078] In the electrode contact state, a circular current path is formed that includes these electrodes 3 and the user's body. Therefore, in step S3, when a potential difference is formed between the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R, a current flows through the circular current path. On the other hand, in the electrode separation state, the circular current path is not formed. Therefore, the control unit 4 can determine whether these electrodes 3 are in contact with the user's body based on the magnitude of the current flowing through the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R (step S5).

[0079] If an electrode separation state is detected in step S5 (step S5, "No"), the control unit 4 determines whether the time elapsed since step S1 has exceeded a preset contact waiting time (step S51).

[0080] In step S51, if the time elapsed since step S1 is equal to or less than the contact waiting time (step S51, "No"), the control unit 4 executes steps S3, S4, and S5 again. On the other hand, if the time elapsed since step S1 is longer than the contact waiting time (step S51, "Yes"), the control unit 4 determines that the EMS device 1 has been operated erroneously, and stops the operation of the EMS device 1.

[0081] If the electrode contact state is detected in step S5 (step S5, "Yes"), the control unit 4 supplies power to the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R in accordance with the exercise control program to apply electrical stimulation to the user's muscles (step S6). At this time, the control unit 4 creates a potential difference between the first electrode 3L as the first polarity and the second electrode 3R as the second polarity, as in step S3, to apply electrical stimulation to the user's muscles.

[0082] The EMS device 1 can apply EMS to a user, for example, who is seated on a chair or the like and has his or her feet resting on the footrest 2. When the user places his or her feet on the footrest 2, a potential difference is generated between the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R. This causes, for example, the user's calf muscles to periodically contract and expand due to electrical stimulation. This contraction and expansion causes the EMS device 1 to swing back and forth. Furthermore, the swinging of the EMS device 1 causes the user's ankle joint to extend or flex. As a result, it is possible to promote the movement of the user's calves, feet, or ankles.

[0083] The EMS device 1 can also apply EMS to a user who is seated on the floor or the like and has their calves resting on the footrest 2. When a potential difference is generated between the first electrode 3L and the second electrode 3R while the user has their calves resting on the footrest 2, the muscles in the user's thighs periodically contract and expand due to electrical stimulation. This contraction and expansion causes the EMS device 1 to swing back and forth. Furthermore, the swinging of the EMS device 1 causes the user's knee joint to extend or flex. As a result, the movement of the user's thighs or knees can be promoted.

[0084] Furthermore, while applying the electrical stimulation, the controller 4 determines whether a preset termination condition is satisfied (step S7). Examples of the termination condition include the end of the exercise control program, at least one of the electrodes 3 being separated from the user's body, and the user issuing an instruction to stop the exercise control program. If the termination condition is not satisfied (step S7, "No"), the controller 4 confirms that the electrode unit is in contact with the user's body (step S5) and then continues to perform EMS. On the other hand, if the termination condition is satisfied, the controller 4 stops the operation of the EMS device 1 (step S7, "Yes").

[0085] Next, the effects of the EMS device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the ground-contacting portion 5 of the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 1 bulges downward from the front end 121 and the rear end 122 of the lower surface 12. The EMS device 1 is configured to assume a reference posture when the ground-contacting portion 5 is placed on the floor F and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest 2. In this reference posture, both the front end 121 and the rear end 122 of the EMS device 1 are spaced apart from the floor F. Therefore, when a user uses the EMS device 1, the front end 121 and the rear end 122 of the EMS device 1 can be spaced apart from the floor F without applying load to the footrest 2 with the toes or heels. Furthermore, the user can easily swing the EMS device 1 in either the forward or backward direction from the reference posture. Therefore, the user can easily swing the EMS device 1 even when electrical stimulation is being applied to muscles.

[0086] Therefore, even users who have reasons for being unable to easily adjust the posture of the EMS device, such as users who are not accustomed to EMS or users with relatively low muscle strength, can easily use the EMS device 1.

[0087] 4 and 5 , when the ground contact portion 5 of the EMS device 1 is placed on the floor F, the height from the floor F to the front end 121 of the lower surface 12 can be set to 50 mm or less so that the height from the floor F to the front end 121 of the lower surface 12 is equal to the height from the floor F to the rear end 122 of the lower surface 12. This reduces the strain on the ankles of the user when they place their feet on the footrest 2. In addition, the height from the floor F to the front end 121 of the lower surface 12 can be set to 10 mm or more. This allows the user to appropriately rock the EMS device 1 back and forth to further enhance the effect of promoting their exercise.

[0088] 7 , when the EMS device 1 swings forward and backward with the ground contact portion 5 in contact with the floor surface, the ratio L / α of the displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact portion 5 and the floor surface to the change in angle α of the EMS device 1 can be set within an appropriate range. Therefore, the posture of the EMS device 1 becomes more stable when the EMS device 1 swings forward and backward. Therefore, the posture of the EMS device 1 can be easily stabilized when electrical stimulation is applied to the user's muscles. Furthermore, the EMS device 1 can further enhance the effect of promoting muscle movement in the user.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 2 , the EMS device 1 has a first protrusion 61 and a second protrusion 62. The first protrusion 61 is provided so as to be positioned on the outer side of the user's feet when the user places them on the footrest 2. The second protrusion 62 is provided so as to be positioned between the user's feet when the user places them on the footrest 2. The first protrusion 61 and the second protrusion 62 are spaced apart from each other. Therefore, when the user places their feet on the footrest 2 of the EMS device 1, the user can easily determine the position of their feet on the footrest 2 using the protrusion 6 as a guide. The protrusion 6 also easily restricts the displacement of the user's feet. Therefore, the position of the user's feet is less likely to shift while using the EMS device 1.

[0090] Furthermore, by providing the EMS device 1 with the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62, for example, when a seated user places their calves on the raised portions 6 to perform EMS, the user can easily determine the position of their calves on the footrest portion 2 using the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62 as guides. Furthermore, the raised portions 6 easily restrict the displacement of the user's calves. Therefore, the position of the user's calves is less likely to shift while using the EMS device 1. As a result, the usability of the EMS device 1 can be further improved.

[0091] Furthermore, the distance between the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62 at the front end 121 of the footrest 2 is wider than the distance between the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62 at the rear end 122. This allows the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62 to be positioned in accordance with the shape of the user's foot, thereby further improving the usability of the EMS device 1.

[0092] Of the two first protrusions 61 provided on the outer sides of the user's feet, the left first protrusion 61L has a recess 611 on the inside in the lateral direction that is recessed more than the surrounding area. Therefore, when the user carries the EMS device 1, the user can easily carry the EMS device 1 by hooking their fingers on the recess 611 provided in the first protrusion 61L.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 1 , the EMS device 1 has stand units 7 on both lateral ends thereof. Furthermore, the stand units 7 have stand surfaces 71 that are perpendicular to the lateral direction of the EMS device 1. Therefore, when the EMS device 1 is stored, the EMS device 1 can be placed upright so that the stand units 7 are in contact with the floor surface. This reduces the area occupied by the EMS device 1 during storage. This further improves the usability of the EMS device 1.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 9 , the EMS device 1 includes a heater 44 configured to heat the footrest 2. Therefore, by warming the body of the user placed on the footrest 2, the user's muscles are relaxed. This is expected to further enhance the exercise effect. Furthermore, by warming the body of the user placed on the footrest 2, sweating from the user's body can be promoted. By promoting sweating from the user's body, the electrical resistance between the electrodes 3 provided on the footrest 2 and the user's body can be further reduced by sweat. As a result, electrical stimulation can be more easily applied to the user's muscles.

[0095] Furthermore, the EMS device 1 has a center of gravity above the contact point between the ground contact part 5 and the floor surface in the reference posture. Therefore, when the EMS device 1 is swung in the forward / backward direction from the reference posture, the EMS device 1 easily returns to the reference posture. Therefore, the posture of the EMS device 1 when swung in the forward / backward direction can be more easily stabilized.

[0096] Second Embodiment Another aspect of the grounding portion of the EMS device according to this embodiment will be described. Note that, among the symbols used in the above description, the same symbols as those used in the description of the first embodiment indicate the same components as those of the EMS device according to the first embodiment, unless otherwise specified.

[0097] As described above, the grounding portion of the EMS device may have any shape as long as the EMS device can swing at least in the forward and backward directions. For example, the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 102 shown in FIG. 11 is provided with a footrest 2 for placing the user's feet, a pair of electrodes 3, a first protrusion 61, and a second protrusion 62. The pair of electrodes 3 are provided on the footrest 2. The first protrusion 61 and the second protrusion 62 are provided around the periphery of the footrest 2. The EMS device 102 also includes a control unit (not shown) configured to supply power to the electrodes 3. Furthermore, the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 102 is provided with a grounding portion 502 that bulges outward in a hemispherical shape from the center of the lower surface 12. The EMS device 102 provided with such a grounding portion 502 can swing in multiple directions, including the forward and backward directions.

[0098] 12 , the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 103 is provided with a footrest 2 for placing the user's feet, a pair of electrodes 3, a first protrusion 61, and a second protrusion 62. The pair of electrodes 3 are provided on the footrest 2. The first protrusion 61 and the second protrusion 62 are provided around the periphery of the footrest 2. The EMS device 103 is also provided with a control unit (not shown) configured to supply power to the electrodes 3. Furthermore, the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 103 is provided with grounding portions 503 at two locations spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the EMS device 103. The grounding portions 503 of the EMS device 103 bulge outward in a hemispherical shape on the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 103. The EMS device 103 provided with such grounding portions 503 can swing back and forth.

[0099] Furthermore, for example, the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 104 shown in FIG. 13 is provided with a footrest 2 on which a user's feet are placed, a pair of electrodes 3, a first protrusion 61, and a second protrusion 62. The pair of electrodes 3 are provided on the footrest 2. The first protrusion 61 and the second protrusion 62 are provided around the periphery of the footrest 2. The EMS device 104 is also provided with a control unit (not shown) configured to supply power to the electrodes 3. Furthermore, the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 104 is provided with grounding portions 504 at two locations spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction of the EMS device 104. The grounding portions 504 of the EMS device 104 bulge outward in a semi-cylindrical shape on the lower surface 12 of the EMS device 104. Each of the grounding portions 504 is arranged such that its axial direction is parallel to the lateral direction of the EMS device 104. The EMS device 104 provided with such a grounding portion 504 can swing back and forth.

[0100] Comparative Example 1 In this example, an EMS device having a value of the ratio L / α different from the EMS devices according to the first and second embodiments will be described. As shown in FIG. 14 , the EMS device 9 of this example includes a disk-shaped main body 91, a pair of electrodes 92, and a grounding portion 93. The pair of electrodes 92 are provided on an upper surface 911 of the main body 91. The grounding portion 93 is provided on a lower surface 912 of the main body 91. The grounding portion 93 of the EMS device 9 of this example has a semi-cylindrical bulge on the lower surface 912 of the main body 91. The radius of curvature of the outline of the grounding portion 93 in a side view of the EMS device 9 from the lateral direction is approximately 20 mm.

[0101] The EMS device 9 of this example was swung back and forth in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The angle change α and the displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact portion and the floor surface were measured. The measured angle change α was approximately 20°. The displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact portion and the floor surface was approximately 7 mm. Therefore, the ratio L / α of the displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact portion 93 and the floor surface to the angle change α in the EMS device 9 of this example was 0.35 mm / °.

[0102] The value of the ratio L / α in the EMS device 9 of this example was smaller than the range described in the first embodiment. Therefore, when the EMS device 9 was swung back and forth, the posture of the EMS device 9 changed abruptly. Furthermore, the posture of the EMS device 9 was prone to becoming unstable. Therefore, there was concern that in some cases, a user might find the EMS device 9 difficult to handle.

[0103] The EMS devices according to the first and second embodiments have been described above. However, the specific configuration of the EMS device according to the present embodiments is not limited to the configuration of the EMS device described above. The configuration of the EMS device described above can be changed as appropriate within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0104] For example, the first embodiment shows an example in which the EMS device 1 is provided with two power supply terminals, a first power supply terminal 72 and a second power supply terminal 73. However, the number of power supply terminals provided on the EMS device 1 may be one. In this case, the power supply terminal may be configured to charge the power supply unit 41 via a power adapter. Alternatively, the power supply terminal may be configured to charge the power supply unit 41 via the stand 8.

[0105] In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which both the first power supply terminal 72 and the second power supply terminal 73 are provided on the first stand unit 7L ( FIGS. 4 and 8 ). However, the first power supply terminal 72 may be provided on one of the two stand units 7, and the second power supply terminal 73 may be provided on the other stand unit. In this case, for example, the stand unit having the first power supply terminal 72 is placed on the stand 8. This allows charging of the power supply unit 41 via the first power supply terminal 72. The EMS device can also be placed upright with the stand unit having the second power supply terminal 73 facing upward. This allows charging of the power supply unit 41 via the second power supply terminal 73 even in a location where a stand 8 is not provided.

[0106] In addition, in the first and second embodiments, examples are described in which the first raised portion 61 and the second raised portion 62 are provided on the upper surface 11 of the EMS device 1, 102. However, only one of the first raised portion 61 or the second raised portion 62 may be provided on the upper surface of the EMS device. Also, it is possible for no raised portion to be provided on the upper surface of the EMS device.

[0107] Furthermore, a protrusion protruding downward may be provided on the underside of the EMS device. In this case, excessive inclination when the EMS device is swung in the forward and backward directions can be more easily prevented. Furthermore, when a protrusion is provided on the underside of the EMS device, the protrusion may have a sensor for detecting contact with the floor surface. In this case, the sensor provided on the protrusion can also measure the number of times the EMS device is swung. Furthermore, when a protrusion is provided on the underside of the EMS device, the protrusion may have a weight. By providing a weight on the protrusion in this way, the EMS device can be swung in the forward and backward directions more easily.

[0108] Furthermore, a weight may be provided inside the grounding portion of the EMS device, which makes it easier to stabilize the attitude of the EMS device.

[0109] The grounding portion of the EMS device may be detachable. In this case, for example, multiple types of grounding portions having different shapes are prepared. A grounding portion selected from these grounding portions according to the user's preference is then attached. This allows the balance between the ease of swinging the EMS device and the stability of its posture during swinging to be easily adjusted according to the user's preference. Furthermore, in this case, the appearance of the EMS device when placed upright can be changed according to the user's preference.

[0110] In addition, the EMS device can take the following forms (1-1) to (1-10), for example.

[0111] [1-1] An electrical muscle stimulation device configured to provide electrical stimulation to the muscles of a user, the electrical muscle stimulation device comprising: a footrest portion on the upper surface of the electrical muscle stimulation device for placing both feet of the user; at least one pair of electrodes on the footrest portion; a control unit configured to supply power to the electrodes; and a ground contact portion that bulges downward from the front and rear ends of the underside of the electrical muscle stimulation device, the ground contact portion being configured to be able to swing back and forth while in contact with the floor surface; the electrical muscle stimulation device configured to assume a reference position when the ground contact portion is placed on the floor surface and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest portion; and in the reference position, both the front and rear ends of the electrical muscle stimulation device are spaced apart from the floor surface.

[0112] [1-2] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [1-1], in which, in the reference posture, the center of gravity is located above the contact point between the ground contact portion and the floor surface. [1-3] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [1-1] or [1-2], in which, when the electrical muscle stimulation device is swung forward and backward while the ground contact portion is in contact with the floor surface, the ratio L / α of the displacement L of the contact position on the floor surface between the ground contact portion and the floor surface to the change in angle α is within the range of 1 mm / ° or more and 5 mm / ° or less.

[0113] [1-4] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of [1-1] to [1-3], including a raised portion provided around the footrest and raised above the electrodes. [1-5] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [1-4], wherein the raised portion is provided so as to be positioned on the outside of the user's foot when the user's foot is placed on the footrest. [1-6] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [1-4], wherein the raised portion is provided so as to be positioned between the user's feet when the user's foot is placed on the footrest.

[0114] [1-7] The raised portion includes a first raised portion and a second raised portion, the first raised portion is arranged so as to be positioned on the outside of the user's foot when the user's foot is placed on the footrest portion, and the second raised portion is arranged so as to be positioned between the user's both feet when the user's foot is placed on the footrest portion, and the first raised portion and the second raised portion are spaced apart from each other, in the muscle electrical stimulation device described in [1-4].

[0115] [1-8] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [1-7], wherein the distance between the front end of the first raised portion and the front end of the second raised portion is wider than the distance between the rear end of the first raised portion and the rear end of the second raised portion. [1-9] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of [1-1] to [1-8], wherein a stand portion including a stand surface perpendicular to the lateral direction is provided at the lateral end. [1-10] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of [1-1] to [1-9], including a heater configured to be able to heat the footrest portion.

[0116] From another perspective, the EMS device can also be regarded as a device having a raised portion on its upper surface to suppress unintended current flow between electrodes. That is, the EMS device may have, for example, the configurations shown in [2-1] to [2-10] below. [2-1] An electrical muscle stimulation device configured to apply electrical stimulation to a user's muscles, including: a footrest portion on the upper surface of the electrical muscle stimulation device for placing both feet of the user; at least one pair of electrodes on the footrest portion; a control unit configured to supply power to the electrodes; ground contact portions that bulge downward from the front and rear ends of the underside of the electrical muscle stimulation device; and raised portions around the footrest portion that bulge above the electrodes, the electrical muscle stimulation device configured to be able to swing back and forth while the ground contact portions remain in contact with the floor surface.

[0117] [2-2] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [2-1], wherein the raised portion is provided so as to be positioned on the outer side of the user's foot when the user's foot is placed on the footrest. [2-3] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [2-1], wherein the raised portion is provided so as to be positioned between the user's both feet when the user's foot is placed on the footrest.

[0118] [2-4] The raised portion includes a first raised portion and a second raised portion, the first raised portion is arranged so as to be positioned on the outside of the user's foot when the user's foot is placed on the footrest portion, and the second raised portion is arranged so as to be positioned between the user's both feet when the user's foot is placed on the footrest portion, and the first raised portion and the second raised portion are spaced apart from each other, in the muscle electrical stimulation device described in [2-1].

[0119] [2-5] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [2-4], wherein the distance between the front end of the first raised portion and the front end of the second raised portion is wider than the distance between the rear end of the first raised portion and the rear end of the second raised portion. [2-6] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of [2-1] to [2-5], wherein a stand portion including a stand surface perpendicular to the lateral direction is provided at the lateral end. [2-7] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of [2-1] to [2-6], including a heater configured to be able to heat the footrest portion.

[0120] [2-8] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of [2-1] to [2-7], configured to assume a reference posture when the contact portion is placed on the floor surface and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest portion, and in the reference posture, both the front and rear ends of the electrical muscle stimulation device are spaced apart from the floor surface. [2-9] The electrical muscle stimulation device according to [2-8], in the reference posture, has a center of gravity above the contact portion between the contact portion and the floor surface.

[0121] [2-10] A muscle electrical stimulation device described in any one of [2-1] to [2-9], wherein when the muscle electrical stimulation device is swung back and forth while the ground contact portion is in contact with the floor surface, the ratio L / α of the displacement amount L of the contact position between the ground contact portion and the floor surface on the floor surface to the angle change amount α is within the range of 1 mm / ° or more and 5 mm / ° or less.

[0122] The effects of the electrical muscle stimulation devices disclosed in [2-1] to [2-10] are similar to the effects of the electrical muscle stimulation devices having the corresponding configurations among the electrical muscle stimulation devices disclosed in [1-1] to [1-10].

[0123] 1, 102 Electrical muscle stimulation device 11 Upper surface 12 Lower surface 2 Foot rest 3 Electrode 4 Control unit 5, 502 to 504 Ground contact part

Claims

1. An electrical muscle stimulation device configured to provide electrical stimulation to the muscles of a user, comprising: a footrest section provided on the upper surface of the electrical muscle stimulation device for placing both feet of the user; at least one pair of electrodes provided on the footrest section; a control section configured to supply power to the electrodes; and a ground contact section that bulges downwardly from the front and rear ends of the underside of the electrical muscle stimulation device, the ground contact section being configured to be able to swing back and forth while in contact with a floor surface; the ground contact section being configured to assume a reference posture when placed on the floor surface and the user's feet are not placed on the footrest section, and in the reference posture, both the front and rear ends of the electrical muscle stimulation device are separated from the floor surface.

2. The electrical muscular stimulation device according to claim 1, wherein in the reference posture, the center of gravity is located above the contact point between the ground contact portion and the floor surface.

3. The electrical muscle stimulation device of claim 1, wherein the ratio L / α of the displacement L of the contact position between the ground contact portion and the floor surface on the floor surface to the angle change α when the electrical muscle stimulation device oscillates back and forth with the ground contact portion in contact with the floor surface is within the range of 1 mm / ° or more and 5 mm / ° or less.

4. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 1, further comprising a raised portion provided around the footrest portion and raised above the electrodes.

5. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 4, wherein the raised portion is provided so as to be positioned on the outer side of the user's foot when the user places the foot on the footrest.

6. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 4, wherein the raised portion is provided so as to be positioned between both of the user's feet when the user's feet are placed on the footrest portion.

7. The electrical muscle stimulation device of claim 4, wherein the raised portion includes a first raised portion and a second raised portion, the first raised portion is arranged so as to be positioned on the outside of the user's foot when the user's foot is placed on the footrest portion, and the second raised portion is arranged so as to be positioned between the user's feet when the user's foot is placed on the footrest portion, and the first raised portion and the second raised portion are spaced apart from each other.

8. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to claim 7, wherein the distance between the front end of the first raised portion and the front end of the second raised portion is wider than the distance between the rear end of the first raised portion and the rear end of the second raised portion.

9. An electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a stand portion at a lateral end portion, the stand portion including a stand surface perpendicular to the lateral direction.

10. The electrical muscle stimulation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a heater configured to be able to heat the footrest portion.

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