U.S. patent application number 12/680094 was filed with the patent office on 2010-08-19 for chair type stretching apparatus.
Invention is credited to Hiroyuki Inoue, Daisuke Morikawa, Keisuke Shimizu, Shinji Tsutsui.
Application Number | 20100207438 12/680094 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40511368 |
Filed Date | 2010-08-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100207438 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Inoue; Hiroyuki ; et
al. |
August 19, 2010 |
CHAIR TYPE STRETCHING APPARATUS
Abstract
The chair type stretching apparatus in this invention comprises
a seat, a backrest, a flexible sheet, a tension means, and a
controller. The backrest has a width. The flexible sheet is
disposed in front of the backrest to be movable between a normal
position and a projected position. The flexible sheet in the normal
position lies in a close relation with a front surface of the
backrest. The flexible sheet in the projected position is spaced
away from the front surface of the backrest. The tension means is
provided on the backrest in order to apply tensional force to the
flexible sheet so as to move a center of the flexible sheet toward
a front direction of the backrest. The tension means is provided on
at least one width end of the backrest in order to apply tensional
force along a width direction of the backrest to the flexible
sheet.
Inventors: |
Inoue; Hiroyuki;
(Hikone-shi, JP) ; Shimizu; Keisuke; (Suita-shi,
JP) ; Morikawa; Daisuke; (Kyoto-shi, JP) ;
Tsutsui; Shinji; (Hirakata-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Cheng Law Group, PLLC
1100 17th Street, N.W., Suite 503
Washington
DC
20036
US
|
Family ID: |
40511368 |
Appl. No.: |
12/680094 |
Filed: |
September 25, 2008 |
PCT Filed: |
September 25, 2008 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2008/067282 |
371 Date: |
March 25, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
297/284.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 1/0244 20130101;
A61H 2201/0134 20130101; A61H 9/0078 20130101; A61H 1/0292
20130101; A61H 2201/0149 20130101; A61H 2201/1676 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
297/284.2 |
International
Class: |
A47C 7/14 20060101
A47C007/14 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 28, 2007 |
JP |
2007-255869 |
Claims
1. A chair type stretching apparatus having a seat and a backrest
which respectively have individual widths along a width of a user's
body, said stretching apparatus comprising: a flexible sheet being
disposed in front of said backrest to extend an entire width of
said backrest for supporting the user's body, said flexible sheet
being configured to be movable between a normal position and a
projected position, said flexible sheet in said normal position
lying in a close relation with a front surface of said backrest,
said flexible sheet in said projected position being spaced away
from said front surface of said backrest; a tension means being
provided on said backrest and being configured to apply tensional
force to said flexible sheet so as to move a center of said
flexible sheet toward a front direction of the backrest; a
controller being configured to control said tension means in order
to move said center of said flexible sheet to a front-back
direction, wherein said tension means is provided on at least one
width end of the backrest in order to apply the tensional force
along a width direction of the backrest to said flexible sheet,
whereby the tension means moves said center of said flexible sheet
to the front-back direction.
2. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein said
tension means is defined by a pressurizing means being configured
to apply force along the front direction of the backrest to said
flexible sheet, said pressurizing means being located between the
backrest and said flexible sheet, thereby moving said center of
said flexible sheet toward the front direction, said controller
being configured to control said pressurizing means so as to move
said center of said flexible sheet along the front-back direction
of the backrest, said pressurizing means is disposed to both width
ends of the backrest in order to apply the force toward a front
direction of the backrest to said flexible sheet, whereby said
pressurizing means moving said center of said flexible sheet toward
a front direction of the backrest.
3. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 2, wherein said
pressurizing means is composed of air-bags and a pump, said
air-bags being configured to expand and contract along the
front-back direction, and said pump being configured to send air to
said air-bags.
4. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 2, wherein said
flexible sheet and said pressurizing means are detachably attached
to said backrest.
5. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 4 further
comprising a stretching unit which detachably attached to said
front surface of said backrest, said stretching unit being provided
at its front surface with said flexible sheet, and being provided
at its width ends of an inside of the stretching unit with said
pressurizing means so that said flexible sheet and said
pressurizing means are detachably attached to said backrest.
6. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 2, wherein said
flexible sheet has width ends which are respectively attached to
both width surfaces of said backrest, and at least one of said
width ends of said flexible sheet being detachably attached to a
predetermined area of said width surface of said backrest.
7. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 further
comprises a wall, said wall being located between said backrest and
said flexible sheet, and being located at one width end of the
front surface of the backrest, the tension means being defined by a
pressurizing means being configured to apply force along the front
direction of said backrest to said flexible sheet, said tension
means being located between said backrest and said flexible sheet
so as to move said center of said flexible sheet, said controller
being configured to control said pressurizing means in order to
move said center of said flexible sheet toward the front-back
direction, said pressurizing means being located at one width end
of said backrest and being located away from said wall, said
pressurizing means being configured to apply the force along the
front direction of said backrest to one end of said flexible sheet
so that said pressurizing means applies the tensional force
directed outwardly of the width direction to said flexible
sheet.
8. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 further
comprises walls, said walls being provided on the front surface of
the backrest and being located at both width ends of said front
surface of said backrest, said tension means is defined by rollers
said rollers respectively holding said width ends of said flexible
sheet, and are configured to wrap said flexible sheet around said
rollers so as to move said center of said flexible sheet toward
said front direction of said backrest, said controller being
configured to control said rollers in order to move said center of
said flexible sheet to the front-back direction, said rollers being
disposed at both width surfaces of said backrest for wrapping said
flexible sheet so that said rollers apply the tensional force
directed outwardly of the width direction to said flexible
sheet.
9. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 2, wherein said
backrest is formed at its center of said front surface with an
opening, and having an applicator being disposed within said
backrest and is configured to move toward a front direction from
said opening to apply force along the front direction, said
flexible sheet being shaped to cover said opening.
10. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 9, wherein said
flexible sheet is composed of a front cover and a rear cover, said
front cover being located in front of said rear cover, said rear
cover lying in a close relation with the front surface of the
backrest, and said rear cover having an extension ratio or an
amount of slack along the width direction, the extension ratio or
an amount of the slack of said rear cover being smaller than the
extension ratio or an amount of the slack of said front cover.
11. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 9, wherein said
flexible sheet having an extension ratio along a height direction
of said backrest, and an extension ratio along the width direction
of said backrest, and the extension ratio along the width direction
being smaller than the extension ratio along the height
direction.
12. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 9, wherein said
flexible sheet has an amount of slack along a height direction of
the backrest, and an amount of slack along the width direction, and
an amount of the slack along the width direction being smaller than
an amount of the slack along the height direction.
13. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 9, wherein said
flexible sheet has a first area for receiving the tensional force
along the width direction from said pressurizing means, and a
second area for receiving the force along the front direction from
said applicator, said first area has an extension ratio or an
amount of slack, said second area has an extension ratio or an
amount of slack, the extension ratio or an amount of the slack of
the first area is smaller than the extension ratio or an amount of
the slack of the second area.
14. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 3, wherein said
flexible sheet and said pressurizing means are detachably attached
to said backrest.
15. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 14 further
comprising a stretching unit which detachably attached to said
front surface of said backrest, said stretching unit being provided
at its front surface with said flexible sheet, and being provided
at its width ends of an inside of the stretching unit with said
pressurizing means so that said flexible sheet and said
pressurizing means are detachably attached to said backrest.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This invention relates to chair type stretching apparatus
having seats and backrests. In particular, this invention relates
to a chair type stretching apparatus being configured to stretch
user's back and waist.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Japanese patent application publication No 2002-119558
discloses a prior chair type stretching apparatus. The prior
stretching apparatus comprises a seat and a backrest. The
stretching apparatus allows the user to stretch the user's back and
the user's waist while the user sits on the seat and leans against
the backrest. The chair type stretching apparatus further comprises
a plurality of air-bags. The air-bags are disposed on the seat and
a front surface of the backrest. The air-bags are shaped to expand
and contract upon receiving air. The stretching apparatus allows
the user to stretch by means of the air-bags.
[0003] However, the air-bags of the prior chair type stretching
apparatus are configured to support the user, and also are
configured to push the user. Therefore, the air-bags of the prior
stretching apparatus may not press the user's body according to the
user's body size. Consequently, there is a problem that the prior
chair type stretching apparatus is difficult to give the stretch to
the user.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0004] This invention is achieved to solve the above problem. An
object in this invention is to give the stretch to the user
certainly.
[0005] In order to solve the above problem, the chair type
stretching apparatus in this invention has a seat and a backrest.
The seat and the backrest have individual widths along a width of a
user's body. The chair type stretching apparatus comprises a
flexible sheet, a tension means, and a controller. The flexible
sheet is disposed in front of the backrest and extends an entire
width of the backrest for supporting the user's body. The flexible
sheet is configured to be movable between a normal position and a
projected position. The flexible sheet in the normal position lies
in a close relation with a front surface of the backrest. The
flexible sheet in the projected position is spaced away from the
front surface of the backrest. The tension means is provided on the
backrest. The tension means is configured to apply tensional force
to the flexible sheet so as to move a center of the flexible sheet
toward a front direction of the backrest. The controller is
configured to control the tension means in order to move the center
of the flexible sheet to a front-back direction. The tension means
is provided on at least one width end of the backrest in order to
apply the tensional force along a width direction of the backrest
to the flexible sheet. Consequently, the tension means moves the
center of the flexible sheet to the front-back direction.
[0006] The chair type stretching apparatus with this configuration
is configured to move a a predetermined portion such as a user's
back and a user's lower back by means of the flexible sheet.
Therefore, this configuration makes it possible to give the stretch
to the user regardless of the user's body size. In addition, the
tension means being disposed at least one width end of the front
surface of the backrest. Therefore, the chair type stretching
apparatus with this configuration achieves reduction of the cost
and downsizing of the dimension.
[0007] It is preferred that the tension means is realized by
pressurizing means. The pressurizing means are configured to apply
force toward the front direction of the backrest to the flexible
sheet. The pressurizing means is located between the backrest and
the flexible sheet such that the pressurizing means moves the
center of the flexible sheet toward the front direction. The
controller being configured to control the pressurizing means so as
to move the center of the flexible sheet along the front-back
direction of the backrest. The pressurizing means are respectively
disposed to both width ends of the backrest in order to apply the
force toward a front direction of the backrest to the flexible
sheet. Consequently, the pressurizing means moves the center of the
flexible sheet toward a front direction of the backrest.
[0008] In this case, the chair type stretching apparatus is capable
of moving the predetermined portion such as the user's back and the
user's lower back by means of the flexible sheet. Therefore, the
chair type stretching apparatus with this configuration is capable
of giving the stretch to the user surely regardless of the user's
body size.
[0009] It is preferred that the pressurizing means is composed of
air-bags and a pump. The air-bags are configured to expand and
contract along the front-back direction. The pump is configured to
send air to the air-bags.
[0010] In this case, when the chair type stretching apparatus is
deactivated, the air-bags are contracted. Therefore, the chair type
stretching apparatus with this configuration achieves the
downsizing of the dimension.
[0011] It is preferred that the flexible sheet and the pressurizing
means are detachably attached to the backrest.
[0012] In this case, it is possible to vary the position of the
flexible sheet and the pressurizing means within the front surface
of the backrest. Therefore, this configuration makes it possible
for the chair type to vary the portion of giving the stretch to the
user.
[0013] It is preferred that the chair type stretching apparatus
further comprises a stretching unit. The stretching unit is
detachably attached to the front surface of the backrest. The
stretching unit is provided at its front surface with the flexible
sheet. The stretching unit is provided at its both width ends of an
inside of the stretching unit with the pressurizing means.
Consequently, the flexible sheet and the pressurizing means are
detachably attached to the backrest.
[0014] In this case, this configuration makes it possible to vary
the position of the flexible sheet and the pressurizing means on
the front surface of the backrest. Therefore, with this
configuration, it is possible to obtain the chair type stretching
apparatus being configured to give the stretch to various portion
of the user.
[0015] It is preferred that the both width ends of the flexible
sheet are respectively attached to the both width surfaces of the
backrest. In addition, it is preferred that the flexible sheet has
at least one the width ends which is attached to a predetermined
area of the width surface of the backrest.
[0016] In this case, it is possible to vary an amount of the slack
along the width direction of the flexible sheet. Consequently, this
configuration makes it possible to obtain the chair type stretching
apparatus which is configured to apply stretch at a predetermined
intensity which is varied by adjusting an amount of the slack.
[0017] It is preferred that the chair type stretching apparatus
further comprises a wall. The wall is located between the backrest
and the flexible sheet. The wall is located at one width end of the
front surface of the backrest. Tension means is defined by a
pressurizing means. The pressurizing means is configured to apply
force along the front direction of the backrest to the flexible
sheet. The tension means is located between the backrest and the
flexible sheet so as to move the center of the flexible sheet. The
controller is configured to control the pressurizing means in order
to move the center of the flexible sheet toward the front-back
direction. The pressurizing means is located at one width end of
the backrest. The pressurizing means is located away from the wall.
The pressurizing means is configured to apply the force along the
front direction of the backrest to one end of the flexible sheet so
that the pressurizing means applies the tensional force directed
outwardly of the width direction to the flexible sheet.
[0018] In this case, the flexible sheet also moves the portion of
the user such as the shoulder, the back, and the lower back.
Therefore, this configuration also makes it possible to give the
stretch to the user regardless of the user's body size.
[0019] It is also preferred that the chair type stretching
apparatus further comprises walls. The walls are provided on the
front side of the backrest. The walls are respectively located at
both width ends of the front surface of the backrest. The tension
means is defined by rollers. The rollers respectively hold the
width ends of the flexible sheet. The rollers are configured to
wrap the flexible sheet around the rollers so as to move the center
of the flexible sheet toward the front direction of the backrest.
The controller is configured to control the rollers in order to
move the center of the flexible sheet to the front-back direction.
The rollers are respectively disposed at both width surfaces of the
backrest for wrapping the flexible sheet, whereby the roller
applies the tension directed outwardly of the width direction to
the flexible sheet.
[0020] In this case, the flexible sheet also moves the portion of
the user such as the shoulder, the back, and the lower back.
Therefore, this configuration also makes it possible to give the
stretch to the user regardless of the user's body size.
[0021] It is preferred that the backrest is formed at its center of
the front surface with an opening. The backrest has an applicator.
The applicator is disposed within the backrest. The applicator is
configured to move toward a front direction from the opening to
apply force along the front direction. The flexible sheet is shaped
to cover the opening.
[0022] In this case, it is possible to obtain the chair type
stretching apparatus which is configured to give a massage to the
user. In addition, the applicator is moved toward a front direction
even the flexible sheet is located in front of the applicator by
slacking the flexible sheet. Therefore, it is possible to obtain
the chair type stretching apparatus being configured to give the
massage to the user by the applicator.
[0023] It is preferred that the flexible sheet is composed of a
front cover and a rear cover. The front cover is located in front
of the rear cover. The rear cover lies in a close relation with the
front surface of the backrest. The rear cover has an expansion
ratio or an amount of slack along the width direction. The
expansion ratio of the rear cover is smaller than the expansion
ratio of the front cover. Or, an amount of the slack of the rear
cover is smaller than an amount of the slack of the front
cover.
[0024] In this case, it is possible to obtain the chair type
stretching apparatus having the flexible sheet which is mild to
skin, and is capable of keeping good looking.
[0025] It is preferred that the flexible sheet has an expansion
ratio along a height direction of the backrest, and an expansion
ratio along the width direction of the backrest. The expansion
ratio along the width direction is smaller than the expansion ratio
along the height direction.
[0026] In this case, when the chair type stretching apparatus gives
the stretch to the user, the tension means is capable of applying
the tensional force along the width direction to the flexible sheet
immediately. In addition, when the chair type stretching apparatus
gives the massage to the user, the applicator is easily moved along
the vertical direction.
[0027] It is preferred that the flexible sheet has an amount of
slack along a height direction, and an amount of slack along the
width direction. An amount of the slack along the width direction
is smaller than an amount of the slack along the height
direction.
[0028] In this case, when the chair type stretching apparatus gives
the stretch to the user, the tension means is also capable of
applying the tensional force along the width direction to the
flexible sheet immediately. In addition, when the chair type
stretching apparatus gives the massage to the user, the applicator
is also easily moved along the vertical direction.
[0029] It is preferred that the flexible sheet has a first area and
a second area. The first area receives the tensional force along
the width direction from the pressurizing means. The second area
receives the force along the front direction from the applicator.
The first area has an expansion ratio or an amount of slack. The
second area has an expansion ratio or an amount of slack. The
expansion ratio of the first area is smaller than the expansion
ratio of the second area. An amount of the slack of the first area
is smaller than an amount of the slack of the second area.
[0030] In this case, it is possible to obtain the chair type
stretching apparatus which is configured to give the stretch to the
user optimally, and also is configured to give the massage to the
user optimally.
[0031] Further characteristics of the present invention and effects
resulting there from can be better understood based on the best
mode for carrying out the invention and examples thereof described
below.
BRIEF EXPLANATION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] FIG. 1 (a) shows a perspective view of the chair type
stretching apparatus in the first embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 1 (b) shows a perspective view the chair type
stretching apparatus of the first embodiment without flexible
sheets, pressurizing means, and the applicator cover.
[0034] FIG. 2 (a) shows a side view of the backrest having a normal
condition.
[0035] FIG. 2 (b) shows a side view of the backrest having a
reclining condition.
[0036] FIG. 3 (a) shows a side view of the seat when the air-bag on
the seat is expanded.
[0037] FIG. 3 (b) shows a side view of the backrest when the
air-bag on the backrest is expanded.
[0038] FIG. 4 (a) shows a perspective view of the chair type
stretching apparatus of a first modification in the first
embodiment. The air-bags on the left side of the backrest and the
left side of the seat are expanded.
[0039] FIG. 4 (b) shows a perspective view of the chair type
stretching apparatus of the first modification in the first
embodiment. The air-bags on the left side of the backrest and the
right side of the seat are expanded.
[0040] FIG. 5 (a) shows a top view of the backrest with the
air-bags which is contracted.
[0041] FIG. 5 (b) shows a top view of the backrest with the
air-bags which is expanded.
[0042] FIG. 5 (c) shows a top view of the backrest with the air-bag
on only the left side of the backrest is expanded.
[0043] FIG. 6 shows a front view of the backrest.
[0044] FIG. 7 (a) shows a front schematic view of the chair type
stretching apparatus with the air-bags disposed on both lateral end
of the seat. Both the air-bags are contracted.
[0045] FIG. 7 (b) shows a front schematic view of the chair type
stretching apparatus with the air bags disposed on both lateral end
of the seat. Both the air-bags are expanded.
[0046] FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of a relationship of a
controller, a pump, electromagnetic valves, and air-bags.
[0047] FIG. 9 (a) shows a perspective view of the chair type
stretching apparatus of a second modification in the first
embodiment. This stretching apparatus is provided at its front
surface of the backrest with a stretching unit.
[0048] FIG. 9 (b) shows a schematic side cross sectional view of
the stretching unit.
[0049] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the backrest of the
chair type stretching apparatus of a third modification of the
first embodiment. The flexible sheet is attached to the
backrest.
[0050] FIG. 11 (a) shows a perspective view of the chair type
stretching apparatus in the fourth modification.
[0051] FIG. 11 (b) shows a top cross sectional view of the backrest
in the fourth modification.
[0052] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the backrest in the
fourth modification. This figure shows positions of the air-bags on
the backrest.
[0053] FIG. 13 (a) shows a top view of the chair type stretching
apparatus in the fifth modification while the air-bags are
contracted.
[0054] FIG. 13 (b) shows a top view of the chair type stretching
apparatus in the fifth modification while the air-bags are
expanded.
[0055] FIG. 14 (a) shows a top cross sectional view of the chair
type stretching apparatus in the sixth modification. In this
figure, the flexible sheet is slacked.
[0056] FIG. 14 (b) shows a top cross sectional view of the chair
type stretching apparatus in the sixth modification. In this
figure, the flexible sheet is wrapped by the rollers.
[0057] FIG. 15 shows a front view of the chair type stretching
apparatus in a seventh modification.
[0058] FIG. 16 shows a front cross sectional view of the seat of
the chair type stretching apparatus in the eighth modification.
[0059] FIG. 17 (a) shows a front cross sectional view of the
air-bag which is contracted.
[0060] FIG. 17 (b) shows a front cross sectional view of the
air-bag which is expanded.
[0061] FIG. 18 (a) shows a top cross sectional view of the flexible
sheet of the chair type stretching apparatus in a tenth
modification. In this figure, the flexible sheet is slacked.
[0062] FIG. 18 (b) shows a top cross sectional view of the flexible
sheet of the chair type stretching apparatus in the tenth
modification. In this figure, the flexible sheet is wrapped by the
roller.
[0063] FIGS. 19 (a) and (b) shows a side cross sectional view of
the backrest of the chair type stretching apparatus of the
above.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
First Embodiment
[0064] The chair type stretching apparatus in this embodiment is
explained with attached drawings. In FIG. 1, a front direction of
the chair type stretching apparatus is indicated by means of an
arrow of X. Similarly, a left direction of the chair type
stretching apparatus is indicated by means of an arrow of Y. An
upper direction of the chair type stretching apparatus is indicated
by means of an arrow of Z. In FIG. 1, a lateral direction of the
chair type stretching apparatus is equivalent to a width direction
of the chair type stretching apparatus. A height direction of the
chair type stretching apparatus is equivalent to a vertical
direction of the chair type stretching apparatus. The front-back
direction of the chair type stretching apparatus is equivalent to a
depth direction of the chair type stretching apparatus.
[0065] FIG. 1 (a) shows a perspective view of the chair type
stretching apparatus 100 of the first embodiment in this invention.
The chair type stretching apparatus in this embodiment 100
comprises a base 200, a seat 300, a backrest 400, arm rests 900,
and a foot rest 901. The base is shaped to support the seat 300,
the backrest 400, the arm rests 900, and the foot rest 901. The
base 200 has a front surface which supports the foot rest 901. The
base 200 has a top surface which supports the seat 300. The base
200 has a rear surface which supports the backrest 400 which
extends toward the upper direction. The base 200 has both width
ends which respectively hold the arm rests 900. The base is
provided at its inside with a pump 200 and a controller 240. The
pump 220 and the controller 240 are activated upon receiving the
electrical power. In addition, the chair type stretching apparatus
100 further comprises a reclining mechanism (which is not shown)
for reclining the backrest 400. In addition, the chair type
stretching apparatus 100 further comprises an operation setting
device (which is not shown). The operation setting device is
provided for setting the operation of the pump. The pump 220 is
activated upon receiving the electrical power.
[0066] The backrest 400 has a width along a lateral direction. In
other words, the backrest 400 has the width along a width of the
body of the user. As shown in FIG. 1 (a), the backrest 400 includes
an applicator cover 410, an air-bag 420, an air bag 430, a flexible
sheet 421, and a flexible sheet 431. FIG. 1 (b) shows the chair
type stretching apparatus 1 without the applicator cover 410, the
flexible sheet 421, the flexible sheet 431, the air-bag 420, and
the air-bag 430. As shown in FIG. 1 (b), the backrest 400 is formed
at its front surface with an opening 440. The opening 440 extends
along a height direction of the backrest 400.
[0067] The backrest 400 includes applicators 441, arms 442, and a
massaging device 443. The applicator 441, the arms 442, and the
massaging device 443 are disposed within the opening 440. The arms
442 have front ends which respectively hold the applicators 441.
The massaging device 443 holds rear ends of the arms 442. The arms
442 hold the applicators to be movable toward a front direction of
the backrest 400. The massaging device 443 is activated upon
receiving the electrical power. In addition, FIG. 2 (a) shows a
side cross sectional view of the chair type stretching apparatus
100. As shown in FIG. 2 (a), the backrest 400 includes a guide rail
444. The guide rail 444 is provided for sliding the massaging
device 443 along the guide rail 444. The guide rail 44 4 is
disposed within the backrest 400 and extends along a vertical
direction. Consequently, the massaging device 443 moves along the
height direction within the opening 440. Each of the flexible sheet
421 and the flexible sheet 431 has slack. The flexible sheets 421
and 431 are provided on the backrest 400 to extend an entire width
of the backrest 400. Consequently, the flexible sheets 421 and 431
cover the opening 440 in order to conceal the massaging device 443,
the arms 442, and the applicators 441. The applicators 441 are
configured to apply force to the applicator cover 410. The force
generated by the applicators 441 is directed toward a front
direction. Consequently, the applicators 441 applies the force
which is directed toward a front direction to the applicator cover
410. Therefore, the applicators 441 generates the force which is
transmitted to the user's body through the applicators cover 410,
thereby giving the massage to the user.
[0068] The air-bags 420 are respectively disposed on the front
surface of the backrest 400 and respectively located at both width
ends of the backrest 400. The air-bags 430 are respectively
disposed on the front surface of the backrest 400 and respectively
located at both width ends of the backrest. The air-bag 420 and the
air-bag 430 are arranged along a height direction of the backrest.
The air-bag 420 and 430 are respectively shaped to have bellows
shown in FIG. 4. The air-bags 420 and 430 have bottom surfaces
which are respectively attached to the front surface of the
backrest 40 by snap pins. The air bags 420 and 430 are connected to
the pump 220 and the electromagnetic valves through the hoses 230
respectively, shown in FIG. 8. The pump 220 is configured to send
the air to the air-bags 420 and 430. The air-bags 420 and 430 are
configured to expand when the air is sent from the pump 220.
Because the air-bags 420 and 430 are arranged on the front surface
of the backrest 440, the air-bags 420 and 430 expand toward the
front direction of the backrest upon receiving the air. On the
other hand, the air-bags 420 and 430 are contracted toward the
backrest when the air in the air-bags 420 and 430 is released.
[0069] Each one of the flexible sheets 421 and 431 is made of a
cloth. The flexible sheets 421 and 431 are disposed in normal
positions of lying in a close relation with a front surface of the
backrest. The flexible sheets 421 and 431 are located in front of
the air-bags 420, 430. The flexible sheets 421 and 431 are provided
on the backrest 400 so as to extend over an entire width of the
backrest 400. The flexible sheets 421 and 431 respectively have
both width ends. Both width ends of the flexible sheets 421 and 431
are sewed on a width side surface of the backrest 400. The air-bags
420 and 430 are respectively provided at its front surface with
loop tapes. On the other hand, the flexible sheets 421 and 431 are
respectively provided at its rear surface with hook tapes.
Consequently, the air-bags 420 have the front surfaces which are
fastened to the rear surface of the flexible sheet 420 by means of
hook-and-loop fastener. Similarly, the air-bags 430 have the front
surfaces which are fastened to the rear surface of the flexible
sheet 431 by means of hook-and-loop fastener. The flexible sheet
421 has its width center which is faced to a lower back of the user
in order to support the user's lower back. The flexible sheet 431
has its width center which is faced to the back of the user in
order to support the user's back.
[0070] FIG. 6 shows a front view of the above chair type stretching
apparatus. FIG. 7 shows a front cross sectional view of the above
chair type stretching apparatus. As shown in FIG. 6, the seat 300
has a depth along the front-back direction, and a width along a
width of a body of a user who seats on the seat 300. As shown in
FIG. 1 (a) and FIG. 6, the seat 300 includes air-bags 310 and a
flexible sheet 311.
[0071] The air-bags 310 are disposed on both width ends of the top
surface of the seat 300. The air-bags 310 are respectively shaped
to have bellows shown in FIG. 4. Each air-bag 310 is connected to
the pump 220 through an electromagnetic valve 210 and a hose 230.
The air-bag 310 has its bottom surface which is attached to the top
surface of the seat 300 by means of the snap pin. The air-bag 310
is configured to expand and contract upon receiving the air from
the pump 220. Therefore, the air-bags 310 disposed on the top
surface of the seat 300 are expanded toward an upper direction of
the seat 300 upon the air is sent to the air-bags 310. On the other
hand, the air-bags 310 disposed on the top surface of the seat 300
are contracted toward a lower direction of the seat 300 when the
air is removed from the air-bags 310.
[0072] The flexible sheet 311 is made of the cloth. The flexible
sheet 310 is disposed on the top surfaces of the seat 300 and the
air-bags 310. The flexible sheet 310 extends over an entire width
of the seat 300. The flexible sheet 311 has its width center which
is faced with the buttocks. The air-bags 310 are respectively
provided at its top surfaces with loop tapes which are not shown.
On the other hand, the flexible sheet 311 is provided at its rear
surface which is faced with the top surface of the air-bags 310.
The rear surface of the flexible sheet 311 is provided with hook
tapes which are not shown. Consequently, the top surface of the
air-bag 310 is fastened to the rear surface of the flexible sheet
311 by means of the hook-and-loop fastener. The flexible sheet 311
has both lateral ends which are respectively sewed to the both
width surface of the seat 300. It is noted that the flexible sheet
311 is preferably made of a hard foamed material. The hard foamed
material is exemplified by the urethane.
[0073] FIG. 8 shows a controller 240 being configured to control
the air-bags 420, 430, 310, the electromagnetic valves 210, and the
pump 220. The controller 240 includes a pump control circuit 241
and the valve control circuit 242. The controller 240 sends a
control signal on the basis of setting of an operation device
operated by the user. When the valve control circuit 241 receives
the control signal, the valve control circuit 242 opens and closes
the electromagnetic valves 210 on the basis of the control signal.
In addition, when the pump control circuit 241 receives the control
signal, the pump control circuit 241 controls the pump 220 to start
or stop. Consequently, the pump 220 sends the air to the air-bag
420, 430, and 310 through the hoses 230. Furthermore, the
controller 240 controls the valve control circuit 242 and the pump
control circuit 241 respectively in order to expand and contract
the air-bags 420, 430, 310.
[0074] The chair type stretching apparatus 100 operates as follows.
When the setting is entered by the operation device, the controller
340 controls the pump 220 and the electromagnetic valves 210 in
order to send the air to the air-bags 420 and 430. Because the
air-bags 420 and 430 are disposed on the front surface of the
backrest 400, the air-bags 420 and 430 expands along the front
direction of the backrest. Consequently, the air-bags 420 and 430
apply the force along the front direction of the backrest to the
both width ends of the flexible sheets 421 and 431. That is, the
air-bags 420 and 430 act as pressurizing means being configured to
apply force toward the front direction of the backrest to the
flexible sheets 421 and 431. Both the lateral ends of the flexible
sheets 421 and 431 are sewed to the both width surfaces of the
backrest 400. Therefore, the air-bags 420, 430 generate the
tensional force along outwardly of the width direction of the
flexible sheet according to the expansion of the air-bags 420 and
430. That is, the air-bags 420 and 430 acts as the tension means
which is configured to generate the tensional force which are along
the flexible sheets 421 and 431 which are applied to the flexible
sheets 421 and 431. When the air-bags 420 and 430 applies the
tensional force along the lateral direction of the flexible sheet
421, 431, the air-bags 420 and 430 moves the lateral center of the
flexible sheets 421 and 431 to front-back directions.
[0075] In addition, on the basis of the setting of the operation
device, the controller 240 controls the pump 220 and the
electromagnetic valves 210, whereby the pump 220 sends the air to
the air-bag 310. The air-bags 310 are disposed on the top surface
of the seat 300. Therefore, the air-bags 310 expand toward the
upper direction of the seat 300. Consequently, the air-bags 310
apply the force toward the upper direction of the seat 300 to both
the width ends of the flexible sheet 310 on the seat 300. That is,
the air-bags 310 act as the pressurizing means for applying the
force toward the upper direction of the seat 311. Both the width
ends of the flexible sheet 311 are sewed to both the lateral
surface of the seat 300. Therefore, when the air-bags 310 are
expanded, the air-bags 310 generate the tensional force along
outwardly the width direction of the flexible sheet 311. That is,
the air-bags 310 act as the tension means being configured to
generate the tensional force which is along the width direction of
the seat and which is applied to the flexible sheet 310. The
air-bags 310 move the width center of the flexible sheet 311 toward
the upper direction by applying the tensional force along the
lateral direction of the flexible sheet 311 to the flexible sheet
311.
[0076] The chair type stretching device 100 with this configuration
makes it possible to give the stretch to the user who sits on the
seat and leans against the backrest. FIG. 3 (b) shows the chair
type stretching device 100 which moves the user's lower back by
controlling the air-bags 430 which is disposed on the position
corresponding to the user's lower back. In addition, FIG. 3 (a)
shows the chair type stretching device 100 which moves the user's
buttock by controlling the air-bags 310 which is disposed on the
position corresponding to the user's buttocks.
[0077] FIG. 4 shows a chair type stretching apparatus 100 of a
first modification of the first embodiment. In this modification,
the backrest 400 includes the air-bags 420 (composed of 420L and
420R), and the flexible sheet 421. The air-bags 420L and 420R are
disposed on backrest 400 to be located at a position corresponding
to the user's back. The flexible sheet 421 is disposed on the
backrest 400 to be located at a position being faced to the user's
back. The seat 300 includes the air-bags 310 (composed of 310L and
310R) and the flexible sheet 311. As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the
air-bag 420L and 310L are respectively disposed on the left side of
the backrest 400 and the left side of the seat 300. The pump 220
sends the air to the air-bag 420L and 310L. Consequently, the
flexible sheets 421 and 311 respectively have left ends which are
spaced away from the backrest 400 and the seat 300, thereby the
flexible sheet 421 and 311 are located in the projected positions
with respect to the backrest 400 and the seat 300. Therefore, the
chair type stretching apparatus 100 gives the stretch of turning of
the user to the right about an axis along a height of the user.
[0078] In addition, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), the pump 220 sends the
air to the air-bag 421L disposed on the left side of the backrest
400. On the other hand, the pump 220 sends the air to the air-bag
310R disposed on the right side of the backrest 400. Consequently,
the flexible sheet 421 has its left end being located in the front
position. Therefore, the flexible sheet 421 and 311 give the
stretch to the user sitting on the chair type stretching apparatus.
In particular, the chair type stretching apparatus turns the user's
upper body to the right about the axis along the height of the user
by means of the flexible sheet 421. On the other hand, the chair
type stretching apparatus turns the user's lower body to the left
about the axis along the height of the user by means of the
flexible sheet 311. Consequently, this configuration makes it
possible for the chair type stretching apparatus to give the
stretch of twisting an upper body of the user with respect to the
lower body.
[0079] FIG. 5 shows a top view of the first embodiment and the
first modification of the chair type stretching apparatus. FIG. 5
shows the condition of the user's upper body with respect to the
chair type stretching apparatus. As shown in FIG. 5 (b), the chair
type stretching apparatus with the above configuration is
configured to move the user's upper body toward the projected
position regardless of the width of the body of the user. In
addition, the configurations of the seat 300, the flexible sheet
311, and the air-bags 310 makes it possible for the chair type
stretching apparatus to move the user's buttocks toward the upper
direction regardless of the width of the body of the user. In
addition, as shown in FIG. 5 (c), the chair type stretching
apparatus with this configuration turns the user's body to the
right regardless of the width of the body of the user.
[0080] FIG. 9 shows a chair type stretching apparatus of a second
modification of the first embodiment. In this modification, the
chair type stretching apparatus comprises a stretching unit 450.
The stretching unit 450 is provided at its one surface with a
flexible sheet 422. The stretching unit 450 is shaped to have a
sack. The air-bags 420 and 430 are disposed within the stretching
unit 450. Consequently, both the air-bags 420 are disposed in the
both lateral ends of an inside of the stretching unit 450.
Similarly, both the air-bags 430 are disposed in the both lateral
ends of the inside of the stretching unit 450.
[0081] The stretching unit 450 of this modification is shaped to
cover an entire front surface of the backrest 400. The stretching
unit 450 is provided at its upper end with the fastener 451.
Consequently, the stretching unit 450 is disposed on the backrest
400 by means of the fastener 451. That is, the stretching unit 450
is detachably attached to the backrest 400. Therefore, the flexible
sheet 422, and the air-bags 420, 430 are detachably attached to the
backrest 400. The stretching unit 450 includes a hose 230 which is
communicated with the air-bags 420, 430. The hose 230 is pulled
outwardly from the width surface of the stretching unit 450. The
hose 230 has its one end with a connecting port (not shown) which
is connected to the pump 220. The pump 220 is configured to send
the air to the air-bags 420 and 430 through the hose 230.
[0082] Therefore, when the stretching unit 450 having the flexible
sheet 422 is disposed in a close relation to a front surface of the
backrest 400, the air-bags 420, 430 are respectively configured to
apply tensional force along the lateral direction to the flexible
sheet according to the expansion of the air-bags 420, 430.
Consequently, it is possible to obtain the chair type stretching
apparatus being configured to give the stretch to the user. It is
noted that the stretching unit 450 preferably has a plurality of
fasteners 451. Each the fastener 451 extends along the lateral
direction to form a plurality of lines. In this case, it is
possible to select the one of the lines of the fasteners for
attaching the stretching unit 450 to the backrest 400.
Consequently, the vertical position of the stretching unit 450 is
varied. In addition, it is also possible to detach the stretching
unit 450 from the backrest 400. Consequently, the chair type
stretching apparatus is configured to give a massage to the user by
means of the applicators.
[0083] FIG. 10 shows a backrest 400 of a chair type stretching
apparatus of a third modification of the first embodiment. In this
modification, the flexible sheet 421 is provided at its both
lateral ends of the rear surface with the hook tapes 460. The
backrest 400 is provided at its both lateral surfaces with certain
areas holding the loop tapes 461. Consequently, the flexible sheet
421 is configured to be attachable to both the lateral surface of
the backrest 400.
[0084] Therefore, the chair type stretching apparatus is configured
to give the stretch to the user when the flexible sheet 421 is
disposed on the backrest 400 and the air-bags 420 are extended. In
addition, the loop tapes 461 are disposed on the certain areas of
the both lateral surface of the backrest 400. Therefore, the
flexible sheet 421 has both lateral ends which are respectively
detachably attached to the certain areas of the both lateral
surfaces of the backrest 400. Consequently, it is possible to vary
slack in the lateral direction of the flexible sheet 421. As a
result, it is possible to adjust intensity of the stretch which is
given to the user. In addition, the flexible sheet is movable along
a vertical direction. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the
position for giving the stretch to the user. It is noted that it is
only required for the flexible sheet 421 to have one lateral end
which is detachably attached to the backrest 400.
[0085] FIG. 11 shows a fourth modification of the first embodiment
of the chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the
flexible sheet 422 further plays a role of an applicator cover for
covering the applicators.
[0086] The flexible sheet 422 is provided with an outer cover 471
and the inner cover 470. The outer cover 471 is configured to come
into directly contact with the user's body. That is, the outer
cover 471 is equivalent to a front cover. The inner cover 470 is
configured to come into directly contact with the front surface of
the backrest 400. That is, the inner cover 470 is equivalent to a
rear cover. The outer cover 471 has an amount of slack or an
extension ratio along the lateral direction of the outer cover 471
which is larger than an amount of the slack or the extension ratio
along the lateral direction of the inner cover 470. FIG. 11 (b)
shows a top cross sectional view of the backrest in this
modification. As shown in FIG. 11 (b), the flexible sheet 422 has
both lateral ends which are respectively attached to both the
lateral surface 400L 400R of the backrest 400. Consequently, the
flexible sheet 422 covers the opening 440 of the backrest 400.
[0087] Therefore, the chair type stretching apparatus with this
configuration is configured to give the stretch to the user, and
also to give the massage to the user.
[0088] In this modification, the flexible sheet 422 has the inner
cover 470 and the outer cover 471. The inner cover 470 has an
amount of the slack or the extension ratio which is smaller than an
amount of the slack or the extension ratio of the outer cover 471.
In this modification, the flexible sheet 422 has the inner cover
470 and the outer cover 471. The inner cover 470 has an amount of
the slack or the extension ratio in the width direction which is
smaller than an amount of the slack or the extension ratio in the
width direction of the outer cover 471.
[0089] With this configuration, the inner cover 470 is capable of
generating the tensional force along the width direction when the
air-bags 470 apply the force toward the front direction to the
inner cover 470. In addition, the outer cover 471 with this
configuration is mild to skin, and is capable of keeping good
looking.
[0090] In this modification, the inner cover 470 has the extension
ratio along the vertical direction which is smaller than the
extension ratio along the lateral direction of the inner cover 470.
Therefore, this configuration makes it possible for the air-bag 420
to generate the tensional force along the width direction of the
flexible sheet when the chair type stretching apparatus gives the
stretch to the user. In addition, this configuration makes it
possible for the applicators 441 move along the vertical direction
while the applicators 441 extends the flexible sheet along the
vertical direction. Consequently, the applicator 441 is capable of
giving the massage to the user through the flexible sheet 422.
[0091] Further, it is also preferred that the flexible sheet 422 is
sewed to the backrest such that the flexible sheet 422 has an
amount of the slack along the lateral direction which is smaller
than an amount of the slack along the vertical direction of the
flexible sheet 422. This configuration makes it possible for the
air-bags 420 to generate the tensional force along the width
direction of the flexible sheet 422 effectively when the chair type
stretching apparatus gives the stretch to the user. In addition,
this configuration also makes it possible for the applicators 441
to give the massage to the user while the applicators 441 extend
the flexible sheet along the vertical direction. Consequently, the
applicator 441 is capable of giving the massage to the user through
the flexible sheet 422.
[0092] Moreover, it is also preferred that the flexible is
configured to generate the tensional force along the lateral
direction which differs according to portion. As shown in FIG. 12,
the flexible sheet has a first portion S1 and a second portion S2.
The first portion S1 extends along an entire width of the backrest.
The first portion S1 of the flexible sheet is given the tensional
force along the lateral direction by the air-bags. The second
portion S2 extends along an entire width of the backrest. The
second portion S2 is given the force toward a front direction by
the applicators 441. The first portion S1 is configured to extend
at a first extension ratio along the width direction. The second
portion S2 is configured to extend at a second extension ratio
along the width direction. The second extension ratio is larger
than the first extension ratio. Such a flexible sheet 422 is
obtained by sewing the flexible sheet having the first extension
ratio to the flexible sheet having the second extension ratio such
that the flexible sheet having the second extension ratio is
located in an upper side of the flexible sheet having the first
extension ratio. Moreover, it is also possible to obtain the
flexible sheet 422 having the extension ratio which gradually
becomes smaller from the upper end toward the lower end.
[0093] Consequently, the flexible sheet is capable of having a
predetermined portion where the tensional force is easily
generated. Therefore, when the flexible sheet is disposed such that
the flexible sheet is faced to a portion of the user to be
stretched, the flexible sheet is capable of giving the stretch to
the user effectively. In addition, it is also possible for the
predetermined portion to have flexibility. Consequently, it is
possible to give the massage to the user effectively. Therefore, it
is possible to obtain the flexible sheet having two effects.
[0094] On the other hand, it is also preferred that the first
portion S1 has an amount of the slack along the lateral direction
which is different from an amount of the slack along the lateral
direction of the second portion S2. In this case, the flexible
sheet 422 has the first portion S1 extends along the width
direction, and the second portion S2 extends along the width
direction. The first portion S1 is shaped to have a first length
along the width direction. The second portion S2 is shaped to have
a second length along the width direction. The second length is
larger than the first length. That is, the second portion S2 has an
amount of the slack which is greater than an amount of the slack of
the first portion S1. With this configuration, it is possible for
the flexible sheet to have the predetermined portion which is
easily given the tensional force and which is faced to the back and
lower back of the user to be stretched. Consequently, it is
possible to give the stretch to the user effectively. In addition,
the portion of the flexible sheet faced to the user's shoulder is
capable of having flexibility. Therefore, the applicators are
capable of giving the massage to the user. As a result, it is
possible to obtain the flexible sheet having the two effects. Such
the flexible sheet is obtained by sewing the flexible sheet having
the first length along the width direction to the flexible sheet
having the second length along the width direction such that the
flexible sheet having the second length is located in an upper side
of the flexible sheet having the first length. Moreover, it is also
possible to obtain the flexible sheet 422 having the length along
the width direction which gradually becomes smaller from the upper
end toward the lower end.
[0095] FIG. 13 shows a fifth modification of the first embodiment
of the chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the
backrest is provided at its left end of the front surface with a
wall 480 instead of the air-bag. The backrest is provided at its
right end of the front surface with the air-bag 420. The flexible
sheet 421 is located in front of the wall 480 and the air-bag 420.
The left end of the flexible sheet 421 is fixed to a front end of
the wall 480. The right end of the flexible sheet is fixed to the
right side surface 400R of the backrest 400. When the air-bag 420
is expanded, the front end of the air-bag 420 is moved to a
position in the front-back direction. As a result, the front end of
the air-bag 420 is located at a level same as the level of the
front end of the wall 480.
[0096] With this configuration, as shown in FIG. 13 (b), when the
air-bag 420 is expanded, the air-bag 420 applies the tensional
force along the lateral direction of the flexible sheet 421 to the
flexible sheet 421. When the tensional force is applied to the
flexible sheet, the width center of the flexible sheet 421 is moved
toward to front direction. As a result, the flexible sheet 421
moves a portion of the user corresponding to the lateral center of
the flexible sheet 421. As a result, the chair type stretching
apparatus gives the stretch to the user. In addition, when the
air-bag 420 is contracted as shown in FIG. 13 (a), the flexible
sheet 421 has a slack condition. As a result, the user's back is
moved toward a position along the backrest 400. Therefore, chair
type stretching apparatus is capable of giving the massage to the
user by the applicators within the opening 440. It is noted that
backrest 400 in this modification is provided at its left end with
the wall 480, and is provided at its right end with the air-bag
420. However, it is possible to employ the backrest 400 which is
provided at its right end with the wall, and is provided at its
left end with the air-bag.
[0097] FIG. 14 shows a sixth modification of the embodiment of the
chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the backrest
400 has the walls 480 and rollers 490 instead of the air-bags. That
is, the backrest 400 is provided at its both lateral end of the
front surface with the walls 480. Both the walls extend toward the
front direction of the backrest 400. The rollers 490 are disposed
on both the lateral surfaces of the backrest 400. The walls 480 are
located between the flexible sheet 421 and the backrest 400. The
rollers 490 hold the both lateral ends of the flexible sheets 421.
Both the rollers 490 are configured to wrap the flexible sheet 421,
thereby generating the tensional force along the lateral direction
of the flexible sheet 421. That is, the rollers 490 act as the
tension means.
[0098] The controller 240 is configured to control the roller 490
such that the rollers 490 wrap the flexible sheet 421.
Consequently, the rollers 490 apply the tensional force along the
lateral direction of the flexible sheet 421. Therefore, the rollers
490 move the width center of the flexible sheet to the front
direction. As a result, the flexible sheet 421 moves the portion of
the user corresponding to the width center of the flexible sheet
421. Consequently, the chair type stretching apparatus gives the
stretch to the user.
[0099] Next, the modification of the seat 300 is explained. In this
modification, detail explanations of configurations of the seat 300
which are equivalent to the configurations of the backrest 400 are
omitted.
[0100] FIG. 15 shows a seventh modification of the embodiment of
the chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the seat
300 has a stretching unit 350. The stretching unit 350 has its top
surface with the flexible sheet 311. The stretching unit 350 is
shaped to have a sack. The air-bag 310 is disposed in the both
lateral ends of an inside of the stretching unit 350. The
stretching unit 350 is detachably attached to the seat 300.
[0101] The stretching unit 350 is made of the cloth. The stretching
unit 350 is shaped to have a dimension for covering an entire top
surface of the seat 300. The stretching unit 350 is provided at its
both lateral ends of the inside with air-bags 310. That is, the
air-bags 310 is configured to apply the tensional force along the
width direction of the flexible sheet 311. The stretching unit 350
is provided at its front end with a fastener which is not shown in
the illustrations. The stretching unit 350 is attached to the seat
by the fastener. The stretching unit 350 comprises a hose (not
shown) which is communicated with the air-bags 310. The hose has
one end which is connected to a connecting port (not shown)
disposed on the side of the backrest 400. Consequently, the
air-bags 310 are communicated with the pump 220.
[0102] Therefore, it is possible to apply tensional force along the
lateral direction to the stretching unit 350 when the stretching
unit 350 is disposed on the seat 300 and the air-bags 310 are
expanded. Consequently, it is possible to obtain the chair type
stretching apparatus being configured to give the stretch to the
user's buttocks. Furthermore, it is possible to employ the seat 300
having a plurality of the fasteners which extend along the lateral
direction and is arranged along the front-back-direction. In this
case, it is possible to vary the position of the stretching unit
350 on the seat 300. In addition, it is also possible to detach the
stretching unit 350 from the seat 300.
[0103] FIG. 16 shows an eighth modification of the embodiment of
the chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the
flexible sheet 311 has both lateral end of the inside surface with
hook tapes which is not shown. On the other hand, the seat 300 is
provided at its predetermined areas of the both lateral surface
with the loop tapes 312. The flexible sheet 311 is attached to the
seat 300 by means of the engagement of the loop tapes 312 to the
hook tapes.
[0104] Therefore, it is possible to apply tension to the flexible
sheet 311 according to the expansion of the air-bags 310 when the
flexible sheet 311 is attached to the seat 300. Consequently, the
flexible sheet 311 is capable of giving the stretch to the user. In
addition, the hook tapes are capable of being engaged with
predetermined areas of the loop tapes in the vertical direction.
Therefore, it is possible to vary an amount of the slack of the
flexible sheet 311 in the lateral direction when the engagement
position of the loop tape to the hook tape in the vertical
direction is varied. In addition, it is also possible to vary the
position of the flexible sheet by varying the engagement position
of the loop tape to the hook tape in the front-back direction. As a
result, it is possible for the flexible sheet to give the stretch
to variety portions of the user.
[0105] In addition, it is also preferred that the flexible sheet
311 has only one lateral end which is detachably attached to the
seat 300. This configuration also makes it possible to vary the
engagement position in the vertical direction of the hook tape with
respect to the loop tape 312. Consequently, it is possible to
obtain the chair type stretching apparatus being capable of
adjusting an intensity of the stretch given to the user.
[0106] FIG. 17 shows a ninth modification of the embodiment of the
chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the seat 300
is provided with one the air-bag 310 instead of two the air-bags
310. The chair type stretching apparatus in this modification is
configured to give the same stretch the user.
[0107] In particular, the seat 300 is provided at its one lateral
end with a wall 380. the wall extends toward an upper direction
from the seat 300 and the other lateral end with an air-bag 310. In
this modification, the wall 380 is located at the left end of the
top surface of the seat 300, and the air-bag 310 is located at the
right end of the top surface of the seat. The flexible sheet has
one lateral ends (left end) which is fixed to a tip of the wall
380, and the other lateral end (right end) which is fixed to the
side surface of the seat 300. Consequently, the air-bag 310 is
located between the flexible sheet 311 and the seat 300.
[0108] FIG. 17 (b) shows the air-bag 310 which expands toward the
upper direction. As seen in FIG. 17 (b), the air-bag 310 applies
the tensional force along the lateral direction of the flexible
sheet 311. The tensional force moves a portion of the user's body
toward an upper direction. Therefore, the chair type stretching
apparatus gives the stretch to the user. It is noted that the
air-bag 310 is shaped to expand to have a dimension along the
vertical direction. The dimension along the vertical direction of
the air-bag 310 is approximately equal to a dimension along the
vertical direction of the wall 380.
[0109] FIG. 18 shows a tenth modification of the embodiment of the
chair type stretching apparatus. In this modification, the chair
type stretching apparatus in this modification has the flexible
sheet 311, the walls 380, and rollers 390. The walls 380 have top
surfaces extending from the top surface toward the upper direction.
The rollers 390 are configured to wrap the flexible sheet 311 over
the side surface of the walls 380.
[0110] The rollers 390 are disposed on both lateral ends of the
seat 300. When the rollers 390 wrap the flexible sheet 311, the
rollers 390 applies the tensional force along the lateral
direction. Consequently, the rollers 390 move the width center of
the flexible sheet toward the upper direction. That is, the rollers
390 act as the tension means. In addition, when the rollers 390 is
wound off, the flexible sheet 311 is capable of having the
slack.
[0111] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 18 (b), when the rollers 390 are
operated in order to apply tensional force to the flexible sheet
311, the flexible sheet with tensional force moves the user's
buttocks toward the upper direction. Therefore, this configuration
makes it possible to give the stretch to the user.
[0112] Next, a modification of the backrest with using the air-bag
420 is explained. The following explanation is realized by means of
the air-bag 420 on the backrest 400. However, the invention is
capable of being applied to the air-bag 310 on the seat 300. It is
noted that configurations which is equivalent to the configurations
already mentioned above are omitted. Therefore, particular
configurations is only explained in following explanation.
[0113] As shown in FIG. 19 (a), the backrest 400 is provided with
the air-bag 420 and a plate 500. The air-bag 420 shaped to have a
bellows is fixed on the front surface of the backrest 400. The
plate 500 is fixed on the front end of the air-bag 420. The plate
500 is hard. A front surface of the plate 500 holds the flexible
sheet 421. Furthermore, the plate 500 has both vertical ends which
are respectively rotatably fixed to one end of the support members
510, 520. The backrest 400 rotatably supports the lower end of the
support member 520. The backrest 400 is provided at its front
surface with the slide member 540. The slide member rotatably
supports the upper end of the support member 510, and also slidably
supports the upper end of the support member 510.
[0114] When the air-bag 420 receives the air from the pump, the
slide member 540 slides the upper end of the support member 510
toward a lower direction. According to movement of the upper end of
the support member 510, the upper end of the support member 510
rotates such that the support member 510 allows the plate 510 to
move toward the front direction. As a result, the plate 510 applies
the tensional force along the width direction to the flexible sheet
421. Therefore, the user applies the force to the air-bag 420 and
the plate 500. The support members 510 and 520 gradually stand with
respect to the front surface. As a result, a large ratio of the
force applied from the user to the air-bag 420 and the plate 500 is
supported by the support members 510 and 520. That is, a ratio of
the force applied from the user to the air-bag 420 is reduced.
Thus, this configuration makes it possible to move the user toward
the front direction with low force.
[0115] In the eleventh modification in FIG. 19 (b), one end of the
plate shaped support member 530 is rotatably supported to the front
surface of the backrest 400, and the other end of the plate shaped
support member 530 supports the flexible sheet 421. The air-bags
420 with bellows are disposed on the front surface of the backrest
400. The air-bag 420 has the front surface which is fixed to the
rear surface of the support member 530.
[0116] When the air-bag 420 receives the air from the pump 220, the
air-bag 420 is expanded. According of expansion of the air-bag 420,
the one end of the support member 530 is moved toward the front
direction, while the other end of the support member 530 is
rotated. In this case, the air-bag 420 moves the flexible sheet by
the force generated by the principle of leverage and large stroke.
Therefore, the air-bag 420 is capable of applying the tensional
force to the flexible sheet.
[0117] Although the present invention is described with particular
reference to the above illustrated embodiment and modifications,
the present invention should not be limited thereto, and should be
interpreted to encompass any combinations of the individual
features of the embodiment and modifications.
* * * * *