WO2018147384A1

WO2018147384A1 - Training tool and training system

Info

Publication number: WO2018147384A1
Application number: PCT/JP2018/004458
Authority: WO
Inventors: 松下　剛
Original assignee: 株式会社Mtg
Priority date: 2017-02-10
Filing date: 2018-02-08
Publication date: 2018-08-16
Also published as: TW201834712A; JPWO2018147384A1; JP7212524B2

Abstract

This training tool is provided with: an ultrasonic probe 50 which detects information relating muscle thickness; and an output unit 58 which outputs the information detected by the ultrasonic probe 50.

Description

Training equipment and training system

The present invention relates to a training tool and a training system.

An example of a training tool is a muscle electrical stimulation device. A muscle electrical stimulator applies an electric current to muscle fibers to tension and relax muscles. This is expected to enlarge the muscles. Conventionally, for example, an electrical muscular stimulation device as described in Patent Document 1 has been proposed.

JP 2017-6644 A

There are not a few users who want to reinforce muscles among users of muscle electrical stimulation devices. In order for such users to continue to use the electrical muscle stimulation apparatus, it is effective to realize the effect of muscle augmentation. Of course, even for users who have already used the muscle electrical stimulation device, if they can feel the effect of muscle strengthening, they will be motivated to continue using it. Therefore, I want to be able to check the state of muscles easily.

Such a problem can occur not only with a muscle electrical stimulation device but also with any training equipment.

The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a training tool that can easily check the state of muscles. Moreover, it is providing the training system provided with the training tool.

In order to solve the above-described problem, a training tool according to an aspect of the present invention is a training tool, and includes a sensor that detects information about a muscle and an output unit that outputs information detected by the sensor.

It should be noted that any combination of the above-described constituent elements and those obtained by mutually replacing constituent elements and expressions of the present invention among methods, apparatuses, systems, etc. are also effective as an aspect of the present invention.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a training tool that can easily check the state of muscles. In addition, a training system including the training tool can be provided.

It is a mimetic diagram showing the training system concerning an embodiment. It is a front view of the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus of FIG. It is a rear view of the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of the information processing apparatus of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of a muscular electrical stimulation apparatus. It is a schematic diagram which shows the training system which concerns on a modification. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a mounting tool. It is a schematic diagram which shows the training system which concerns on another modification. It is a schematic diagram which shows the training system which concerns on another modification. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of a bench press apparatus. It is a rear view which shows the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus which concerns on a modification. It is a schematic diagram which shows the motion control system which concerns on a modification.

Hereinafter, the same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated description will be omitted as appropriate. In addition, the dimensions of the members in each drawing are appropriately enlarged or reduced for easy understanding. Also, in the drawings, some of the members that are not important for describing the embodiment are omitted.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a training system 100 according to an embodiment. The training system 100 includes a muscle electrical stimulation device 10 as a training tool and an information processing device 12. The muscle electrical stimulation device 10 is worn by a user. The muscular electrical stimulation device 10 according to the present embodiment is worn on the user's abdomen 3. The muscle electrical stimulation device 10 applies electrical stimulation to the user's muscles. Further, the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 detects information related to the user's subcutaneous fat and muscle thickness, and outputs the detected value to the information processing device 12. The electrical muscular stimulation device 10 outputs the detection value to the information processing device 12 wirelessly, but may be connected to the information processing device 12 by wire.

The information processing apparatus 12 is various terminals operated by a user, for example, a PC, a tablet terminal, or a smartphone. The information processing device 12 generates a tomogram of subcutaneous fat and muscle based on the detection value output from the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 and displays the tomogram on a predetermined display unit.

FIG. 2 is a front view of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10. FIG. 3 is a rear view of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10. The electrical muscular stimulation device 10 includes a housing 20, a cover 24, a base material 26, a first electrode 31 to a sixth electrode 36, a first lead portion 41 to a third lead portion 43, and seven pads 48. And an ultrasonic probe (ultrasonic sensor) 50.

The housing 20 is provided in the center of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10. The housing | casing 20 is formed with resin and is substantially circular by the front view. The housing 20 houses a battery 22 and a control unit 28 (both will be described later with reference to FIG. 4). On the front side of the housing 20, a plus button 20a and a minus button 20b are formed as operation units. The plus button 20a and the minus button 20b are formed in a cantilever state by hollowing out a part of the housing 20.

The cover 24 is made of an elastomer such as silicon. The cover 24 covers the base 26 and the front (front) side of the housing. The cover 24, the base material 26, and the housing 20 are joined by an adhesive tape or an adhesive. A symbol “+” protrudes from the cover 24 covering the plus button 20a, and a symbol “−” protrudes from the cover 24 covering the minus button 20b.

The base material 26 is a thin sheet-like member, and is formed of a resin such as polyethylene terephthalate.

The first electrode 31, the second electrode 32, the third electrode 33, the fourth electrode 34, the fifth electrode 35 and the sixth electrode 36 (hereinafter simply referred to as “electrode” when they are not particularly distinguished or collectively) In addition, it is disposed on the back surface of the base material 26, that is, the surface in contact with the abdomen 3. The six electrodes are made of conductive ink in the present embodiment, and are printed on the back surface of the substrate 26. The six electrodes may be formed by embedding a conductive member in the back surface of the base material 26.

In this embodiment, the first lead portion 41, the second lead portion 42, and the third lead portion 43 (hereinafter simply referred to as “lead portion” when they are not particularly distinguished or collectively referred to) are conductive like the electrodes. And is printed on the back surface of the substrate 26. The three lead portions may be formed by embedding a conductive member on the back surface of the base material 26.

The first lead part 41 electrically connects the first electrode 31, the second electrode 32 and the third electrode 33 to the control part 28 in parallel. The second lead portion 42 electrically connects the fourth electrode 34, the fifth electrode 35, and the sixth electrode 36 to the control portion 28 in parallel. The third lead portion 43 electrically connects the ultrasonic probe 50 to the control portion 28.

シリコン Silicon coating is applied to the three lead parts. Further, the silicon coating is also applied to the connection portion of the six electrodes to the lead portion and the region C in the vicinity thereof (the region indicated by shading in FIG. 3). As a result, energization of the abdomen 3 from the region C of each lead portion and each electrode is suppressed.

The ultrasonic probe 50 is fixed to the base material 26 on which electrodes are arranged. The ultrasonic probe 50 may be detachably fixed to the base material 26. The ultrasonic probe 50 is not limited to the position shown in FIG. 3, and may be fixed at other positions. The ultrasonic probe 50 transmits an ultrasonic wave toward the abdomen in response to the drive voltage supplied from the control unit 28, receives the reflected wave, and an electrical signal corresponding to the received reflected wave, that is, subcutaneous fat and muscle. Information on the thickness of the sheet (hereinafter referred to as “thickness information”). The ultrasonic probe 50 may be configured using a known technique as described in, for example, JP-A-2015-54061.

The pad 48 is a gel-like pad. The pad 48 has high adhesiveness and is attached to each electrode and the ultrasonic probe 50. The muscular electrical stimulation device 10 is affixed to the user's abdomen 3 due to the adhesiveness of the pad 48. The pad 48 has conductivity and ultrasonic transmission. Therefore, the abdomen 3 of the user is energized from each electrode through the pad 48. Further, ultrasonic waves propagate from the ultrasonic probe 50 to the user's abdomen 3 through the pad 48. The pad 48 is replaced when, for example, the adhesive strength decreases, breaks, or becomes conspicuous with use.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10. The muscular electrical stimulation device 10 includes a battery 22 as a power source and a control unit 28. The control unit 28 includes a skin detection unit 52, an electrical stimulation control unit 54, an ultrasonic control unit 56, and an output unit 58.

Each block of the control unit 28 can be realized in hardware by an element and a mechanical device such as a CPU (central processing unit) of a computer, and is realized by a computer program or the like in software. , Depicts functional blocks realized by their cooperation. Therefore, it is understood by those skilled in the art who have touched this specification that these functional blocks can be realized in various forms by a combination of hardware and software. The same applies to each block in FIG.

The skin detection unit 52 detects whether the electrode is in contact with the skin. The skin detection unit 52 detects a resistance value between the first electrode 31 to the third electrode 33 and the fourth electrode 34 to the sixth electrode 36, and when the detected resistance value is less than a threshold value, the electrode touches the skin. The contact is detected, and when the detected resistance value is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is not detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin.

When the skin detection unit 52 detects that the electrode is in contact with the skin, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 has a predetermined operation time (for example, 20 minutes) and a power corresponding to the set output voltage at a predetermined cycle. Is applied to the electrodes, that is, electrical stimulation is applied to the user's abdomen 3. The output voltage can be changed by operating the operation unit. The output voltage increases each time the plus button 20a is pressed, and the output voltage decreases every time the minus button 20b is pressed.

When the skin detection unit 52 detects that the electrode is in contact with the skin, the ultrasonic control unit 56 supplies a drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 at a predetermined cycle, and detects that the electrode is in contact with the skin. When it is not performed, the supply of the drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 is stopped. In other words, in the present embodiment, the ultrasonic control unit 56 applies the drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 at a predetermined cycle while the electrode is in contact with the skin while the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 is powered on. Supply. The ultrasonic probe 50 emits ultrasonic waves at a predetermined cycle while the drive voltage is supplied.

The output unit 58 outputs the thickness information output from the ultrasonic probe 50 to an external device. In the present embodiment, the output unit 58 transmits the thickness information to the information processing apparatus 12 by wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). Note that the output unit 58 may transmit the thickness information to the information processing apparatus 12 by wired communication.

The battery 22 is housed in the housing 20 in a replaceable manner. The battery 22 may be a primary battery or a secondary battery. The battery 22 is electrically connected to the control unit 28.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the information processing apparatus 12. The information processing apparatus 12 includes a receiving unit 62, an image generating unit 64, and a display control unit 66. The receiving unit 62 receives the thickness information transmitted from the output unit 58.

The image generation unit 64 generates a B-mode image, that is, a tomographic image, related to the subcutaneous fat and muscle of the user's abdomen 3 based on the information received by the reception unit 62, that is, the thickness information output from the ultrasonic probe 50. The image generation unit 64 may be configured using a known technique as described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-233601.

The display control unit 66 displays the B-mode image generated by the image generation unit 64 on a predetermined display unit.

The operation of the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 configured as described above will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10. Here, an example will be described in which the user turns on the power in a state where the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 is mounted on the abdomen 3 and removes the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 after the output of the electrical stimulation to the abdomen 3 is finished.

The user presses the plus button 20a for 2 seconds to turn on the electrical muscle stimulation device 10 (S10). The skin detection unit 52 detects whether or not the electrode is in contact with the skin (S12). When it is not detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin (N in S12), the process waits for a predetermined waiting time and performs the determination in S12 again.

When it is detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin (Y in S12), electric power is supplied to the electrode in a predetermined cycle, that is, electric stimulation is applied to the user. Specifically, the electrical stimulation control unit 54 supplies electric power to the electrodes, that is, applies electrical stimulation to the user (S14). If it is detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin before the operation time (for example, 20 minutes) has elapsed (N in S16, Y in S18), the electrical stimulation control unit 54 waits for a predetermined waiting time, The process of S14 is performed again. When the operating time has passed or it is no longer detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin (Y in S16 or N in S18), the supply of power to the electrode is terminated, that is, the application of electrical stimulation to the user Ends.

When it is detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin (Y in S12), the thickness information is detected at a predetermined cycle. Specifically, the ultrasonic control unit 56 supplies a drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 (S20). Thereby, the ultrasonic probe 50 transmits an ultrasonic wave according to the drive voltage, receives the reflected wave, and outputs thickness information according to the received reflected wave. The output unit 58 transmits (outputs) the thickness information to the information processing apparatus 12 (S22). The information processing device 12 generates a B-mode image related to the subcutaneous fat and muscle of the user's abdomen 3 based on the thickness information transmitted from the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 and displays the B-mode image on a predetermined display unit. Thereby, the user can confirm the state of muscles. When it is detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin (Y in S24), the ultrasonic control unit 56 waits for a predetermined waiting time and performs the processes of S20 and S22 again. When it is no longer detected that the electrode is in contact with the skin (N in S24), the supply of the drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 ends.

According to the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 according to the embodiment described above, thickness information is detected by the ultrasonic probe 50 in addition to electrical stimulation applied to the muscle from the electrodes. That is, electrical stimulation can be applied to muscles and thickness information can be detected with a single device. This eliminates the troublesome task of detecting the thickness information by preparing a dedicated ultrasonic diagnostic device before and after using the electrical muscular stimulation device in order to see the state of the muscle. In particular, when exercising with a muscle electrical stimulation device attached and applying electrical stimulation to the muscle, and checking the state of the muscle after exercise, remove the muscle electrical stimulation device when exhausted and use a dedicated ultrasound diagnostic device This eliminates the troublesome work of detecting thickness information by preparing the. Moreover, since thickness information can be detected by the muscular electrical stimulation apparatus 10, the appearance of muscle and subcutaneous fat can be visualized. Therefore, by continuing training for medium and long periods, muscle mass increases, metabolism increases, fat burns and fat decreases, fat decrease, conversely increase muscle mass in body composition, You can see it with your eyes. In addition, when the ultrasonic probe 50 is provided so that the electrode can detect thickness information on the same muscle as the muscle that is applying electrical stimulation, muscle contraction due to the electrical stimulation can be seen with the eyes. The motivation to continue using the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 can be maintained because the consciousness increases or the effect of muscle hypertrophy by the muscular electrical stimulation device can be visually observed and realized.

Further, according to the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 according to the embodiment, the ultrasonic probe 50 is fixed to the base material 26 on which electrodes are arranged. Therefore, the positional relationship between the ultrasonic probe 50 and the electrode is always the same. In general, since a person who trains muscles tends to focus on a specific part, the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 is worn so that the electrode always contacts the same position. Therefore, the state of the muscle at the same position can always be confirmed by the ultrasonic probe 50, and the state of daily changes of the muscle can be confirmed.

Further, according to the electrical muscle stimulation device according to the embodiment, thickness information can be detected in a state where electrical stimulation is applied.

Moreover, according to the electrical muscular stimulation device 10 according to the embodiment, the power supply for the electrode and the ultrasonic probe and the control unit 28 can be made common. Thereby, it is possible to realize a relatively small muscular electrical stimulation device with an ultrasonic probe.

The present invention has been described based on the embodiment. This embodiment is an exemplification, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made to combinations of the respective constituent elements and processing processes, and such modifications are also within the scope of the present invention. is there. A modification is shown below.

(Modification 1)
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a training system 200 according to a modification. This modified example is different from the above-described embodiment in that a wearing tool 210 is provided instead of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10 as a training tool. Hereinafter, the training system 200 will be described focusing on differences from the training system 100 according to the embodiment.

The training system 200 includes a wearing tool 210 as a training tool and the information processing apparatus 12.

The mounting tool 210 includes a main body 230 and the ultrasonic probe 50. The main body is a cylindrical body and is attached to the user's abdomen. The main body may be attached to the user's arm or leg. The main body is sewn with overlapping stretchable fabrics. The main body may be sewn with overlapping fabrics having different textures and stretchability. The main body is crimped to the abdomen and puts a load on the abdominal muscles.

The ultrasonic probe 50 is attached to the main body 230. For example, when the user wears the main body 230, the ultrasonic probe 50 is connected to the user via a member containing moisture such as a gel pad, gel lotion, or clothes containing water. It is attached to a position that contacts the abdominal muscles.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the wearing tool 210. The wearing tool 210 further includes a battery 22, an ultrasonic control unit 56, and an output unit 58. The battery 22, the ultrasonic control unit 56, and the output unit 58 are accommodated in the casing of the ultrasonic probe 50. Note that the battery 22, the ultrasonic control unit 56, and the output unit 58 may be housed in a separate housing from the ultrasonic probe 50.

In this modification, the ultrasonic control unit 56 supplies a driving voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 at a predetermined cycle when a switch provided at an arbitrary position, for example, the housing of the ultrasonic probe 50 is turned on. When the switch is turned off, the supply of the drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 is stopped. The ultrasonic probe 50 emits ultrasonic waves toward the abdomen in response to the drive voltage, and outputs the thickness information of the arms and legs. That is, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect the thickness information at an arbitrary timing when the switch is turned on.

According to the present modification, in addition to applying a load to the muscle by the main body 230, information on the muscle pressure is detected by the ultrasonic probe 50. Therefore, according to this modification, the same effects as those in the embodiment can be obtained.

(Modification 2)
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a training system 300 according to another modification. This modified example is different from the above-described embodiment in that a pressurizing training device 310 is provided as a training tool instead of the muscle electrical stimulation device 10. Hereinafter, the training system 300 will be described focusing on differences from the training system 100 according to the embodiment.

The training system 300 includes a pressure training device 310 as a training tool and the information processing device 12.

The pressurization training device 310 is a device used for pressurization training, and includes a pressurization device 330, at least one (four in the example of FIG. 9) fasteners 340, a pressurization device 330, and fasteners 340. Connection tube 370, ultrasonic probe 50, ultrasonic control unit 56, and output unit 58 are included.

The fastener 340 includes a belt 342, a gas bag 344, and a fixing member 346. The belt 342 is formed of, for example, a stretchable material and is wound around the user's arm or leg. The fixing member 346 fixes the belt 342 so that the state is maintained in a state where the belt 342 is wound around the user. In the present embodiment, gas bag 344 is attached to one surface of belt 342. The gas bag 344 is an airtight bag and can store the gas sent from the pressurizing device 330.

The pressurizing device 330 includes a pump 332 and a pump control unit 334. The pump 332 takes in surrounding gas (for example, air) and sends it out to the gas bag 344 through the connection pipe 370. The pump 332 includes a valve 332a. By opening the valve 332a, the gas in the pump 332 and thus the gas in the gas bag 344 can be discharged to the outside. The pump 332 may be provided for each belt 342, that is, for each gas bag 344. The pump control unit 334 controls air delivery by the pump 332 and opening / closing of the valve 332 a of the pump 332.

When gas is sent from the pump 332 to the gas bag 344 under the control of the pump control unit 334 with the belt 342 wrapped around the user's arm or leg, the pressure corresponding to the amount of gas sent to the gas bag 344 Joins the user.

The ultrasonic probe 50 is attached to the belt 342. In particular, when the belt 342 is wrapped around the arm or leg, the ultrasonic probe 50 is applied to the skin via a moisture-containing member such as a gel pad, gel lotion, or water-containing clothes. It is attached to the position where it touches. The ultrasonic probe 50 is electrically connected to the ultrasonic control unit 56 by, for example, a cable (not shown).

The ultrasonic control unit 56 and the output unit 58 are provided in the casing of the pressure device 330. The ultrasonic control unit 56 and the output unit 58 share a power source with the pressurizing device 330. Note that the ultrasonic control unit 56 and the output unit 58 may be provided in other places such as in the casing of the ultrasonic probe 50, for example.

In this modification, the ultrasonic control unit 56 turns on the ultrasonic probe 50 at a predetermined cycle when a switch provided at an arbitrary position, for example, the case of the ultrasonic probe 50 or the case of the training system 300 is turned on. When the drive voltage is supplied and the switch is turned off, the supply of the drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 is stopped. In response to this drive voltage, the ultrasonic probe 50 emits ultrasonic waves toward the arms and legs, and outputs the thickness information of the arms and legs. That is, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect the thickness information at an arbitrary timing when the switch is turned on. For example, if the switch is turned on only before and after pressure training, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect thickness information only before and after pressure training. For example, if the switch is turned on during pressurization training, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect thickness information during pressurization training. In this case, the information processing apparatus 12 may display the B mode based on the thickness information on, for example, a monitor installed on the ceiling or a user's wearable glasses.

According to this modification, in addition to being pressed by the fastener 340, the thickness information is detected by the ultrasonic probe 50. Therefore, according to this modification, the same effects as those in the embodiment can be obtained.

(Modification 3)
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a training system 400 according to another modification. This modified example is different from the above-described embodiment in that a bench press device 410 is provided instead of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 as a training tool. Hereinafter, the training system 400 will be described focusing on differences from the training system 100 according to the embodiment.

The training system 400 includes a bench press device 410 as a training tool and the information processing device 12.

The bench press apparatus 410 includes a barbell 430, a support 432 that supports the barbell 430, an ultrasonic probe 50, a belt 434, and a control unit 428. The control unit 428 is fixed to the shaft 430 a of the barbell 430.

The belt 434 is wound around the user's arm. The belt 434 may be formed of a stretchable material. The ultrasonic probe 50 is attached to the belt 434. In particular, when the belt 434 is wound around the arm, the ultrasonic probe 50 comes into contact with the skin through a moisture-containing member such as a gel pad, gel lotion, or water-containing clothes. Is attached in position. The ultrasonic probe 50 is electrically connected to the ultrasonic control unit 56 by, for example, a cable (not shown).

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the bench press apparatus 410. The control unit 428 includes an ultrasonic control unit 56 and an output unit 58. The battery 22 is housed in the housing of the control unit 428.

In the present modification, the ultrasonic control unit 56 is turned on at a predetermined period when a switch provided at an arbitrary position, for example, the case of the ultrasonic probe 50 or the case of the control unit is turned on. When the drive voltage is supplied and the switch is turned off, the supply of the drive voltage to the ultrasonic probe 50 is stopped. The ultrasonic probe 50 emits ultrasonic waves toward the arm in response to the drive voltage, and outputs the thickness information of the arm muscles. That is, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect the thickness information at an arbitrary timing when the switch is turned on. For example, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect the thickness information after the bench press by winding the belt 434 to bring the ultrasonic probe 50 into contact with the skin, performing bench press training, and turning on the switch after the bench press training. For example, if the ultrasonic probe 50 is wound around the belt 434 to contact the skin, the switch is turned on, and bench press training is performed, the ultrasonic probe 50 can detect the thickness information after the bench press.

Note that the above-described switch may be turned on when the barbell is placed on the support. For example, this is realized by configuring the control unit to further include an acceleration sensor so that the switch is turned on when the acceleration becomes zero. In this case, since the switch is turned on before and after the bench press training, the thickness information before and after the bench press training can be detected.

(Modification 4)
In the embodiment and the above-described modified examples, the case where each training tool includes one ultrasonic probe has been described. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and each training tool may include a plurality of ultrasonic probes.

(Modification 5)
In the embodiment and the above-described modification, the case where each training tool includes the ultrasonic probe 50 and detects the thickness information of the user has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Each training tool may be provided with other sensors instead of the ultrasonic probe 50 or in addition to the ultrasonic probe 50. Information other than muscle thickness may be detected by other sensors. In other words, each training tool only needs to include a sensor that can detect information about muscles.

For example, the training tool may include a pressure sensor and a hardness sensor. Since muscle is harder than fat, the detected value of the pressure sensor or hardness sensor increases as the amount of muscle increases. Therefore, it is possible to grasp the increase or decrease in muscle or the increase or decrease in subcutaneous fat from the detection value of the pressure sensor or hardness sensor.

For example, the training device may include an electric resistance type or capacitance type moisture meter. Since muscles have less water than fat, it is possible to grasp the increase or decrease of muscles or the increase or decrease of subcutaneous fat based on the detected value of the moisture meter.

(Modification 6)
In the embodiment, the case where the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 includes six electrodes has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 can include any number of electrodes. In the embodiment, the case where the pads 48 separate from the electrodes are attached to the ultrasonic probe 50 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the pads 48 common to the electrodes are attached to the ultrasonic probe 50. May be.

FIG. 12 is a rear view showing the electrical muscular stimulation device 110 according to a modification. FIG. 12 corresponds to FIG. The muscle electrical stimulation device 110 includes two electrodes, a first electrode 31 and a second electrode 32. Also, one pad 48 is attached to the two electrodes and the ultrasonic probe 50 so as to straddle the two electrodes and the ultrasonic probe 50. According to the muscular electrical stimulation device 110 according to the modified example, the same operational effects as the operational effects exhibited by the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 according to the embodiment are exhibited. In addition, according to the electrical muscular stimulation device 110, the pad 48 can be easily attached.

(Modification 7)
In the embodiment, the ultrasonic control unit 56 supplies a driving voltage to the ultrasonic probe at a predetermined cycle when the electrical power of the muscular stimulation device 10 is on and the electrode is in contact with the skin. However, it is not limited to this. The ultrasonic control unit 56 may supply power to the ultrasonic probe at an arbitrary timing. For example, the ultrasonic control unit 56 is in the case where the electrode is in contact with the skin with the electrical power of the muscular electrical stimulation device 10 turned on, and before the power is supplied to the electrode and the power is not supplied to the electrode. Later, power may be supplied to the ultrasound probe. In this case, since the ultrasonic probe transmits ultrasonic waves before and after the electrode supplies power, the state of the muscles before and after training can be confirmed.

(Modification 8)
Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment and the above-described modification example 6, in the muscular electrical stimulation device 10, the ultrasonic probe 50 is not limited to the position in FIGS. 3 and 7 and may be fixed at other positions. For example, the ultrasonic probe 50 and the electrode may be provided so that they are located on the same muscle. In this case, the effect of muscle hypertrophy by the muscle electrical stimulation device can be further realized.

(Modification 9)
FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing a training system 500 according to yet another modification. In the present embodiment, while a plurality of users are simultaneously subjected to electrical stimulation by a plurality of muscular electrical stimulation devices, by moving their bodies according to instructions according to the electrical stimulation pattern, it is possible to perform more quickly. It is premised on the execution of an exercise program that efficiently strengthens muscles. The training system 500 includes a plurality of fitness wears 502 on which a plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices (not shown in FIG. 13) are attached, an exercise control device 503, a display control device 504, and a display device 506. . The exercise control device 503, the display control device 504, and the display device 506 are used as a set, and one set or a plurality of sets are installed in a fitness gym studio. Fitness wear 502 composed of armbands and one set of upper and lower innerwear (not shown) are prepared. The muscle electrical stimulation device is attached to each part of the fitness wear 502 so that electrical stimulation can be applied to each body part such as the user's abdominal muscles, flank, chest muscles, back muscles, arms, legs, and buttocks. A plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices are attached to each of fitness wear 502 for a plurality of users. Each of the plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices communicates with the exercise control device 503 by short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) to transmit and receive information. An exercise control program instructed to start execution through communication with the exercise control device 503 controls voltage setting and operation in each of a plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices of a plurality of users. The motion control device 503 transmits and receives information to and from the display control device 504 through a local area network via the network cable 508. The display control device 504 is a computer that displays a motion image on the display device 506 in accordance with an instruction of a motion control program executed by the motion control device 503.

The exercise control device 503 is an information terminal operated by a fitness gym trainer or user. The exercise control device 503 controls intensity setting and operation for each user and for each muscle electrical stimulation device. Since the exercise control device 503 functions as a hub of a plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices for a plurality of users, the trainer or user operates the motion control device 503 rather than setting and operating the plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices individually. Therefore, it is more efficient to collectively control a plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices. Further, the operations for a plurality of users can be synchronized and controlled by the same program all at once.

The exercise control device 503 causes the display device 506 to display an explanation of the exercise program and an image serving as an example of movement in synchronization with the control of a plurality of muscle electrical stimulation devices. However, considering the delay of wireless communication with each muscle electrical stimulation device, etc., the motion image is not displayed at the timing completely synchronized with the control pulse of the muscle electrical stimulation device, but at the timing delayed by a predetermined period. An image may be displayed. The display control device 504 may incorporate a camera that can capture a user's movement, captures a video of a user who is performing an exercise in accordance with an exercise program, and a skeleton based on an analysis of the video or the user's motion. An image that reproduces the movement may be displayed on the display device 506.

The motion control device 503 includes an ultrasonic probe 50 and can measure the thickness of fat and muscle such as a user's abdomen. The ultrasonic probe 50 according to the present embodiment is a linear type that can increase the visual field width, but may be an ultrasonic probe having another shape such as a convex type, a sector type, or a single type. The ultrasonic probe 50 transmits an ultrasonic wave of about 2.5 MHz to 12 MHz.

The fitness wear 502 is provided with an ultrasonic probe opening 517 for applying the ultrasonic probe to the user's body. The user can measure the thickness of fat and muscle while wearing the fitness wear 502 by pressing an acoustic lens (not shown) of the ultrasonic probe 50 against the body through the opening. The ultrasonic probe 50 may be pressed by hand. The ultrasonic probe 50 may be detachably fixed to the fitness wear 502 by a fixing means such as a snap fit so that the ultrasonic probe 50 does not come out of the ultrasonic probe opening 517. When the ultrasonic probe 50 is fixed by the fixing means, a mechanism for making the contact pressure on the user's body constant may be used in order to make the appearance of the tomographic image constant. The ultrasonic probe 50 is connected to the motion control device 503 by wire, but may be connected wirelessly. In this case, the user can use it without being troubled by wiring, and measurement during operation is easy. Further, the measurement can be performed even if a thin cloth or the like is sandwiched between the ultrasonic probe 50 and the user's body.

A tomographic image based on the output from the ultrasonic probe may be displayed on an operation screen provided in the display device 506 or the motion control device 503. Regarding the display contents, the current tomographic image and the past tomographic image may be displayed side by side. By displaying the tomographic image on the screen, the user can feel the training effect and the motivation to continue the training is improved. Further, by displaying a tomographic image during training, it is possible to perceive the movement of muscles, concentrate the consciousness on the part to be trained, and enhance the training effect.

Any combination of the above-described prerequisite technology, the embodiment, and the modified example is also useful as an embodiment of the present invention. The new embodiment generated by the combination has the effects of the combined embodiment and the modified examples.

10 muscle electrical stimulation device, 12 information processing device, 50 ultrasonic probe, 58 output unit, 64 image generation unit, 100 training system.

The present invention can be used for training tools and training systems.

Claims

Training equipment,
A sensor that detects information about muscles;
And an output unit that outputs information detected by the sensor.
The training device according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is an ultrasonic sensor that transmits an ultrasonic wave to a muscle and receives a reflected wave thereof.
The training tool according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the training tool is a muscle electrical stimulation device that applies electrical stimulation to muscles.
The training device according to claim 3, wherein the sensor is fixed to a base material on which an electrode for applying electrical stimulation to muscles is disposed.
The training device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the sensor detects information on the muscle in a state where electrical stimulation is applied to the muscle.
The electrode according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising an electrode having ultrasonic permeability and conductivity, and an electrode for applying electrical stimulation to muscles and a pad attached so as to straddle the sensor. Training equipment.
A training device according to any one of claims 1 to 6;
An information processing apparatus that generates a tomographic image based on the output of the output unit.