WO2022269190A1

WO2022269190A1 - Device for stimulating certain organs of the human body with charges in order to prevent their degeneration

Info

Publication number: WO2022269190A1
Application number: PCT/FR2022/051212
Authority: WO
Inventors: Luc LALLEMAND
Original assignee: Lallemand Luc
Priority date: 2021-06-22
Filing date: 2022-06-21
Publication date: 2022-12-29
Also published as: EP4359088A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for stimulating certain organs of the body of a user in a standing or seated position, comprising a platform (1) arranged so as to be able to support the user, in particular in a standing or seated position, force-transmission means (3) positioned between the platform and the user when the stimulation device is being used, means (4) for fastening to the user, systems (7a, 7b) for measuring the stimulations and a system (8) for displaying the exertions and manner thereof.

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE: DEVICE FOR STIMULATING CERTAIN ORGANS OF THE HUMAN BODY BY CHARGES TO PREVENT THEIR DEGENERATION

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[010] The invention relates to the field of physical exercise and physiotherapy apparatus aimed at slowing down or preventing or treating degenerative diseases. The invention relates to a device for stimulation by charges of certain organs of the human body to prevent, avoid, slow down or treat their degeneration.

[020] In particular, the invention relates to a device allowing the development of muscular efforts by a user in order to stimulate the muscles and to transmit pressures of suitable intensity and duration on different joints and different bones of the musculoskeletal chain. skeletal, thereby causing effects of stimulation, maintenance, development and rehabilitation of certain functions of the human body and the organs concerned with a view to slowing down or preventing or treating degenerative diseases.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

[030] Currently, in developed countries, longer life expectancy is accompanied by an increase in degenerative diseases. Indeed, muscle, bone and cartilaginous degeneration are evolutions linked to age, harmful behaviors, in particular food, the use of substances dangerous for the organs and deficits, even the absence, appropriate mechanical stimulation due to a very sedentary life.

[040] These degenerations often result in diseases such as sarcopenia, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis which are the cause of profound disabilities, some of which have no satisfactory solution in the current state of medicine. About a third of people over 60 are affected by osteoarthritis, and more than half of women are victims of osteoporotic fractures after 50 years.

[050] As a result, it very often happens that patients are affected by several of these conditions at the same time, or even by all three conditions, certain causes being common. There are correlations between osteoarthritis and osteoporosis and there is evidence that sarcopenia increases the risk of osteoporosis twelvefold. A recent medical term defines this conjunction of diseases: osteosarcopenia.

[060] Most of the cases of these degenerative diseases could however have been the subject of "primary prevention", according to the classification of the World Health Organization, allowing if not to avoid definitively, at least to push back sustainably the appearance of these diseases or even to cure or treat them.

[070] Among the possible primary prevention measures, suitable physical exercises can stimulate the muscles, bones and cartilages in such a way as to give them the signal for maintenance, or even reinforcement if they are taken in time. . Indeed, these different tissues are alive and adapt to their living conditions in a fairly comparable way, because they come from the same embryonic layers: the mesoderm. Biologists have known for a long time that muscles, bones and cartilage adapt to stress and effort, provided that these are sufficient, without being excessive (because of the risk of muscle "breakdown", in particular elongation and tearing, fractures or crushing of the bones, accelerated erosion of the cartilages, etc.).

[080] Constraint has always been used to strengthen muscles.

[090] As far as the skeleton is concerned, Wolff's law (surgeon at the University of Berlin) has observed since 1892 that the bone adapts to the loads it undergoes by transforming its internal architecture. Indeed, following physiological mechanical stimulation, osteocytes readapt their local environment. However, greater stresses lead to their death and then to more intense bone remodeling, if the other bone cells are functional. Periods of rest between stimulations improve the functioning of bone remodeling.

[100] As far as cartilage is concerned, science has demonstrated that the absence of load, overload, static load and certain vibrations are all equally deleterious to cartilage cells and structure.

[110] Ultimately, almost all the orthopedic tissues of the musculoskeletal chains of the musculoskeletal system benefit from moderate stress levels, while insufficient or excessive loads are harmful to them.

[120] There is therefore material for a solution making it possible to stimulate the bones and muscles of the musculoskeletal system to strengthen them, prevent or reverse the evolutions towards osteoporosis and sarcopenia, by respecting and maintaining the cartilage to slow down, or even avoid, the development of severe osteoarthritis.

[130] Given the scale of the health damage linked to sarcopenia, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, pharmacological solutions have been devised for fifty years. Persons skilled in these fields are biologists, physicians and pharmacists.

[140] For example, to fight against osteoporosis, different pharmaceutical molecules are available with very different mechanisms of action:

• quasi-hormonal stimulation of osteoblasts (bone-building cells), of limited use in time due to carcinogenic suspicions,

• insertion into the bone framework of bisphosphonate molecules that osteoclasts (bone-destroying cells) cannot move,

• inhibition of the functioning of osteoclasts...

[150] Although these drugs reduce the risk of severe fractures (femur, vertebrae), they have the disadvantage of real constraints of use with significant inconvenience. In addition, these drugs can cause serious side effects (osteonecrosis, atypical fractures, immune interference, cardiovascular problems, to name a few...).

[160] One of the difficulties in terms of public health is the concealed abandonment of treatment by the patient, which can reach 75% of cases after one year.

[170] Another example, learned societies have proposed a protocol for accompanying osteoarthritic patients with or without medication to slow down the development, withstand the pain and delay the placement of prostheses.

[180] Alongside these medicinal approaches, lifestyle and dietary measures may be proposed, including:

• an optimized supply of nutrients (minerals, vitamins, proteins, etc.) essential for muscles, bones and cartilage,

• an improvement in the conditions of absorption and use of these nutrients by the body (digestion, reduction of chronic inflammation, etc.), • re-education of the sense of balance (equipment of the senses, in particular sight, sufficient intake of vitamin D, exercises stimulating balance),

• stimulation of the organs through adapted physical activities,

• relaxation of large muscle and joint groups.

[190] Various expertise is needed to synthesize knowledge from these fields: nutrition, digestion, neurology, rheumatology...

[200] To stimulate the organs physiologically, various solutions are possible: physical activities with impacts (jumps, in particular, for the bones of the legs), carrying loads, including weightlifting and bodybuilding in particular...

[210] It appeared, from recent experiments carried out on osteoporotic populations (notably the LIFTMOR study in Australia since 2016), that exercises consisting of lifting weights had significant positive impacts on both bone health and patients body muscle health.

[220] The issue of joint health has been the subject of other studies which have recently shown that proper maintenance of cartilage requires stimulation with sufficient pressure. However, it appeared that these stimulations should neither be excessive, nor static, nor at too high frequencies.

[230] Over the years, various devices have been invented, including weight machines, vibrating or tilting, mechanical or electrical platforms. These devices can stimulate the muscles and the skeleton, as well as, possibly, other organs of the body of a user.

[240] The solutions that exist today, in terms of stimulation of muscle, bone and joint chains, have significant limitations.

[250] For example, in document FR 2 755, the device described consists of a support, two straps provided with handles to put the patient's body under tension with a view to taking a medical image. This device, the aim of which is not physiological or therapeutic stimulation, but positioning to perform medical imaging recordings, has the main drawback of imposing a certain passivity on the patient, in particular in a lying position, not physiological and without positional control, leading to risks of postures dangerous and inadequate pressure on certain organs. In addition, the patient does not have sufficient physiological control over the prolongation of the stimulation which does not really depend on him, nor on his physiological state, but which depends much more on the imaging constraints. This device does not provide any particular adjustment means to adapt it to the specific morphology and constraints of the patient. Finally, this invention does not describe a method for implementing the device described.

[260] In the document US2012/040799, are disclosed a method for performing stress exercises with repetitions and recovery periods and an associated device consisting of a contact surface, an actuator, a user interface , a monitoring and control processor. This device allows a complete contraction exercise program for patients wishing to improve their health or their form in a wide variety of areas: metabolic syndrome, deconditioned state, osteoporosis or osteopenia, susceptibility to injury, diabetes, pain, non-specific chronic low back pain , fibromyalgia, obesity, multiple sclerosis, lower back pain, sports injury, brain disorder. However, this method and this device have the main drawbacks of having indications that are extremely broad or even mutually incompatible; to make users work at 100% of their muscular power in a single effort, in a static position, thus causing an intense load on their muscles and their bones with risks for the users' vertebrae; to endanger their cartilages (intense static load) due to the intensity of the pressures generated, as has been known for years; to use a system occupying a lot of floor space, which cannot be quickly or easily dismantled; to require a permanent third-party operator to accompany the user of the device.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[270] One object of the invention is to provide a device aimed at at least partially overcoming the drawbacks mentioned above while allowing the musculoskeletal chain of a user patient to be stimulated in a simple manner.

[280] To this end, there is provided, according to the invention, a device for stimulating certain organs of the body of a user in a standing or seated position, comprising a platform arranged so as to be able to support the user, in particular by standing or seated position, force transmission means positioned between the platform and the user, during use of the stimulation device, securing means to the user. [290] Advantageously, but optionally, the stimulation device according to the invention has at least one of the following technical characteristics:

- the platform supports or incorporates a seat;

- the seat is mounted fixed or mobile with the platform;

- the device comprises stimulation measurement systems and a system for visualizing efforts and their modalities;

- the means of securing the user comprise a belt or a harness or a yoke or handles or bracelets or bandages or any combination thereof;

- the device comprises one or more means of adaptation or adjustment fixed or integrated on the means of transmission or on the means of subjection;

- the device comprises force amplification systems associated with the force transmission means;

- the force amplification systems can be operated by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other means, in particular a mechanical hoist or an electric actuator or a cylinder or a pantograph;

- the device comprises systems for controlling the position or safety of the user, in particular in the posture or position of the back, in approaching, reaching or exceeding a predefined force threshold or the imbalance in the application of efforts;

- the device includes an automatic system that can be programmed for an exercise session;

- the programmable automatic system is arranged so as to carry out an acquisition or a processing or a piloting or a visual or sound or kinesthetic restitution of the data or the programs of the sessions;

- the device further comprises remote data connection, processing and storage systems, arranged in such a way as to allow in particular backup, updating, animation, piloting, control and/or remote supervision ;

- The device is arranged so that all or part of the device is modular;

- The device is arranged so that all or part of the device is easily removable; and,

- The device is arranged so that all or part of the device is foldable, so as to limit the space occupied outside of use of the device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[300] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent on reading the following description of an embodiment of the invention, as well as of a variant. In the attached drawings:

[Fig.1] is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of a stimulation device according to the invention;

[Fig.2] is a three-dimensional view of the stimulation device according to the invention of Figure 1 with a standing user;

[Fig.3] is a three-dimensional view of an alternative embodiment of the device of Figure 1 comprising a seat;

[Fig 4] is a three-dimensional view of another embodiment variant of the stimulation device according to the invention with a user allowing stimulation of the wrists; [Fig 5] is a three-dimensional view of the stimulation device according to the invention of Figure 3 with a seated user; and,

[Fig 6] is a schematic representation of a session programming method implemented by a stimulation device according to the invention of Figures 1 to 5.

[310] For greater clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference signs in all the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[320] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, we will describe a first embodiment of a stimulation device according to the invention. The stimulation device according to the invention stimulates, by loads, certain organs of the human body to prevent, avoid or treat degenerative conditions such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, osteoarthritis. This weight-bearing stimulates and jointly strengthens several chains of muscles-joints-bones involving in particular, for the bones, the thoracic and lumbar vertebral column, the sacrum, the pelvis, the shoulders and possibly the lower limbs, in particular the femurs, the upper limbs, as well as the related organs, mainly by the action of the user developing calibrated sequences of effort and rest with limited or even quasi-nuisance joint movements.

[330] By way of example illustrated in Figure 1, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises a platform or a base 1 intended to support a user, in particular standing or sitting. This platform 1 is positioned on the ground, when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

[340] On the other hand, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises one or more force transmission means 3. The latter comprise one or more securing means 4, one or more force amplification systems 5, one or more means for adjusting or adapting the amplitude of the movement 6, one or more adjusting or adapting means 9 for the force transmission means 3 or the securing means 4. According to variant embodiments of the stimulation device according to the invention, the means or means 4 for securing the user comprise means for interfacing with the arms or the pelvis or the shoulders or the thorax of the user or even a combination of these means for interfacing, such as a belt or a harness or a yoke or handles or bracelets or bandages or any combination thereof.

[350] According to other variant embodiments, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises one or more adaptation or adjustment means 6, 9 fixed or integrated in the effort transmission means 3 or in the the securing means 4. These adaptation means 9 make it possible to adjust the stimulation device according to the invention to the positioning, to the morphology and to the specificities of the user, for example the height, the position of the lower limbs, those upper limbs, or other bodily specificities specific to the latter. These means of adaptation are also arranged in such a way as to be able to take into account the personal physiological characteristics, in particular the limitations, ailments and pains, of the user. On the other hand, the adaptation means 6 make it possible to elastically modulate the amplitude of the movements to be made in order to reach a predetermined effort.

[360] On the other hand, the force amplification system(s) 5 of the stimulation device according to the invention, associated with the force transmission means 3, can be actuated by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other means. , such as a mechanical hoist or an electric actuator or a cylinder or a pantograph.

[370] In addition, the stimulation device according to the invention may comprise one or more command-control-safety systems, and one or more measurement systems 7a and/or 7b, display, programming and recording. stimulations, the latter are connected to one or more visualization, visual and/or sound and/or kinesthetic, or audiovisual systems 8 of the efforts and their modalities during exercises performed during use of the stimulation device according to the invention. In addition, the stimulation device according to the invention can comprise systems for controlling the position or safety of the user, such as the attitude or the position of the back, when approaching, reaching or overtaking a predefined effort threshold or the imbalance in the application of the efforts, and this during use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[380] As a variant, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises an intrinsic safety system arranged so that, during use, a reduction in muscular effort by the user or a relaxation of the securing means 4 make it possible to interrupt the load on the organs without delay.

[390] In an alternative embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 and 5, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises a seat 2 bearing on the measurement system 7a of the platform 1.

[400] It should be noted that all or part of the elements forming an embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention may be modular, for example to be able to be easily dismantled. In addition, some elements are foldable, so as to limit the space occupied outside periods of use in order to facilitate storage of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[410] We will now specify the various aforementioned elements included in the stimulation device according to the invention.

[420] The platform 1 or base, generally placed in a low position on the floor or provided, for this purpose, with adjustable or non-adjustable feet, serves as a rigid or semi-rigid base for the stimulation device according to the invention, to allow a certain mobility - limited - during the efforts, making it possible to fix and maintain in position the major part of the elements of the device. This platform 1 is made, for example, of metal, reinforced glass, natural or synthetic material, several materials being able to be used simultaneously to form a composite platform 1. The platform 1 can be solid or perforated, in a single element or in assembled elements, in particular by gluing, welding, wedging, mechanical fastening, or any other method of assembly appropriate to the materials chosen to form the platform 1 of the stimulation device according to the invention. [430] In the embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention comprising the seat 2, the latter is placed on the platform 1 and is provided so that the user who cannot or does not wish to stand can use the device. stimulation according to the invention in order to make a part of his body work during use of the stimulation device according to the invention. This seat 2 is mounted fixed or mobile with the platform 1. The seat 2 is, for example, a simple cushion, a stool permanently fixed or simply placed on the platform 1 or an ergonomic seat (possibly padded) or a self-supporting seat. deploying integrated into platform 1 or the user's wheelchair.

[440] Concerning the force transmission means 3, the latter are formed so that they are totally rigid in traction to transmit all the forces without any movement of the user, or flexible or relatively elastically deformable to allow a certain mobility - limited and controlled - during efforts. These force transmission means 3 are, here, fixed to the platform 1 with removable or non-removable fixing means. Alternatively, they pass under the platform 1 either freely or by means of guidance systems. The force transmission means 3 are, for example, made by means of one or more straps, ropes, straps, cables, chains, slings, hollow or solid tubes, poles, mechanical sections, guardrails, or any other suitable structure. Alternatively, they are made in the form of a rigid frame or a frame or a column from which emerge one or more straight or profiled arms in front of or between which the user takes his place when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

[450] Regarding the securing means 4, the latter are here made in the form of rigid or flexible handles. They can also be either in the form of one or more rectilinear or profiled pull-up bars, optionally fitted with handles, or in the form of straps arranged so as to enclose the wrists of the user when using the device. stimulation according to the invention, either in the form of a harness or a harness or a collar or a yoke placed on the shoulders of the user when using the stimulation device according to the invention, either in the form of a belt resting on the upper part of the user's pelvis when using the stimulation device according to the invention, or in a combined form resting on the shoulders or surrounding the waist of the user or allowing gripping by the hands or attachment to the forearms when using the stimulation device according to the invention. The securing means 4 are made symmetrically, either in simple symmetry on the sides (left and right) of the user, or in double symmetry (transverse and axial), so as to allow a completely physiological position of the organs intended to be stimulated or used, when using the stimulation device according to the invention, in particular the trunk and particularly the spine, the arms, the shoulders, the pelvis, and all of the lower limbs, joints included. The securing means 4 limit the risks of cantilevered positions and efforts, detrimental to optimal stimulation of said organs thus targeted by use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[460] The force amplification systems 5 make it possible, for their part, to stimulate the user's organs more intensely when using the stimulation device according to the invention, including in totally static or immobile positions. incompatible with a sufficient intensity of effort and within the limit of the efforts and pressures acceptable for each user. The force amplification systems 5 are mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and/or pneumatic integrated either into the platform 1 or into the force transmission means 3. According to a variant embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention, the systems force amplification 5 are made by means of a hoist actuated by the arms of the user, making it possible to tension the force transmission means 3 (straps, cables, ropes, belts, chains, etc.) between the platform 1 and the securing means 4 on the user (harness, yoke, belt, etc.) Amplification can also be carried out, for example, by a mechanical, electric, pneumatic, magnetic, reel, jack or pantograph actuator, or any other suitable means.

[470] The means 6 for adjusting or adapting the amplitude of a movement allow, for their part, that, on the one hand, the force is exerted with a controlled displacement to facilitate control of the force or to avoid the rigidity of the effort which can be painful for some people, in particular the oldest people, and, on the other hand, to control or avoid the static efforts on the cartilages. The modes of implementation of the adaptation can also reside in the use of flexible or deformable materials to produce certain elements of the stimulation device according to the invention, such as the platform 1, the means of transmission of the forces 3, the seat 2, the securing means 4. To obtain a more precise adjustment, intermediate parts that deform under stress such as elastic straps, springs, interchangeable or adjustable shock absorbers can possibly be used.

[480] The adjustment or adaptation means 9 allow different areas of adjustment depending on the size of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, their build, movement limitations, installation method, use of a power multiplier, etc...

[490] For example, systems for adjusting a height of the stimulation device according to the invention make it possible to adapt the height of the gripping or installation or securing systems 4 so as to allow the user of the stimulation device according to the invention to work in its zone of greatest power and greatest comfort while respecting its personal physiological characteristics. The adjustment systems are either continuous, with any position between the extremes being usable, or discrete, with a number of preset positions being selectable. In the case of one or more straps, the adjustment can in particular be made by a choice of straps of different lengths, by sliding one end in a self-locking wedging buckle or ratchet buckle fixed to another end, by wedging the barb of a loop in a notch among a set of notches, by hook-and-loop fastener of great length, by stapling, by fixing the grip handles in eyelets arranged at regular intervals, etc...

[500] In the case of one or more cables or ropes, the adjustment is made, for example, by a choice of cables or ropes of different lengths, by moving and adjusting cable ties, by a manual winch system or electric self-locking, by mechanical or electric winder or other, optionally self-locking or fixed and controlled by a trigger to the grip handle or fixed on, under or in the platform 1. In all the above cases, the adjustment can be made by adding one or more rings or shackles or carabiners of appropriate lengths or adjustable metal, synthetic or textile shackles. Finally, the adjustment can also be made by inserting height wedges or spacers on the platform 1 of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[510] For the build of the user, the adjustments are made, for example, by accessories (harnesses, belts, yokes, etc.) adapted to ranges of build and usable by people with similar body characteristics (tower waist, hip, chest, neck, neck height, bust, shoulder width, etc.) or by accessories that can be adjusted over all or part of the dimensions mentioned, in particular by means of cushions, belts, straps with different types of blocking system (barb, wedging buckles, self-gripping fabrics, eyelets, staples, elastic bands...). [520] In the case of the use of a power multiplier per hoist, the adjustments are made, for example, by choosing the number of pulleys used to multiply the effort, also involving an adjustment of the length of cable (in the broad sense) useful.

[530] To take into account the limitations of possible movement for a user of the stimulation device according to the invention, the working end of the pulling cable of the hoist is installed either on the upper pulley (yoke for example), or on the lower pulley (base for example), or even on a pulley fixed at an intermediate height for example, by means of a cable, or equivalent, adjustable in height or a mast having several fixing points.

[540] Now concerning the control-safety systems mentioned above, these make it possible to control a gradual increase and an instantaneous or gradual interruption of the efforts according to the decisions of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. For example, they can be controlled by an automatic mechanism limiting the efforts within a range predefined by or according to the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or controlled by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention or a third-party operator by means of an electric, hydraulic, magnetic or pneumatic proportional trigger, independent or fixed to one of the gripping handles of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[550]According to an alternative embodiment, significant security is formed by releasing the handles that the user holds in his hands and which serve either as a fixed point for the transmission of forces, or as a system for reducing the forces. By letting go or releasing said handles, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention immediately puts an end, without any delay, to the effort to which he submits to stimulate his organs, when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

[560] According to another variant embodiment, a safety position of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention is achieved by a comparison of the loads on each foot, possibly each arm of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or a load differential existing between the front and the back of each foot. An anomaly and interruption signal for the sequence of exercises being carried out with the stimulation device according to the invention is emitted in the event of an imbalance greater than the previously determined set point. [570]According to another variant, position security is achieved by means of a visual or audio sequence recalling the position instructions to be observed when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

[580] In addition, still as a variant, these positions are secured by means of luminous templates or templates drawn or to be fixed on the platform 1 or to be placed on the spine and shoulders to guide the position of the feet, the pelvis, spine or head of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[590] Furthermore, the measurement systems 7a, 7b of the forces applied to/by the user are either inserted into the force transmission means 3, or placed on the platform 1, or integrated into the platform 1, or making part of the securing means 4 on the user, or inserted at the interface between two of the different parts of the stimulation device according to the invention. As a variant, the force measurement systems 7a, 7b make it possible, by means of sensors distributed on the platform 1 or in the force transmission means 3, to guarantee good physical and postural positioning of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention by comparing the spatial variations of the pressures exerted, in particular longitudinally or transversely under the feet of the user, on his shoulders, on his hips. They include, for these purposes, pressure or traction sensors, as the case may be, as well as a system for integrating and transducing data from the sensors thus provided in the stimulation device according to the invention.

[600] Regarding the visual display and control systems 8, the latter summarize and visually integrate the data from the effort measurement systems 7a, 7b. These display and control systems 8 are either integrated into the force measurement systems 7a, 7b, or sent remotely, for example by a cable or a wireless link, in particular according to the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi standards, to be easily visualized by the user in a secure exertion position when using the stimulation device according to the invention. The different options are not mutually exclusive. These systems can be adjustable according to the characteristics of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. The visual display and control systems 8 can include an adjustable calibration system making it possible, for example, to subtract all or part of the user's weight for displaying the efforts, or to set a minimum or maximum effort threshold. to reach. [610] Audible or visual or kinesthetic indication systems of the user's efforts are optionally integrated with the measurement systems 7a, 7b or sent remotely so that they are easily perceived by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or even that only the user of the stimulation device according to the invention can perceive them, in particular by integration with individual transmitters (glasses, headphones, earphones, vibrator, etc.) These indication systems are optionally adjustable depending on the characteristics of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. They can make it possible, for example, to temporally mark combinations or sequences or sequences of rest and efforts of variable modalities, intensities and durations, for example increasing or decreasing, symmetrical or not, involving all or part musculo-articular-osseous chains (forearms, arms, shoulders, pelvis, spine, thighs, knees, legs, etc.).

[620] Recording and programming systems can be implemented in order to record, analyze, calculate, restore and display on a screen, the detail or synthesis of previous sessions and their progress , the program of the day's session, the precise description of the current sequence, the relative or absolute progress of the current session, the theoretical programming of future sessions. They are integrated into the stimulation device according to the invention or transferred to separate data processing systems.

[630] Depending on the data provided by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention or associated health professionals, the recording and programming systems can, in certain modalities, be programmed either before or after delivery of the stimulation device according to the invention, either by an operator or by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. This programming integrates, for example, data relating to the power of the efforts to be provided, their duration, their repetition, their gradation, recovery in a session or between several sessions. It also integrates data collected at each session to allow a following session to be adapted in intensity (power, duration, repetitions, gradation, recovery, etc.). The recording and programming systems can be arranged so as to give interpretations of the session according to the capacity of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention to go to the end of the session, of his performance and comparison with previous sessions. Depending on these elements, the recording and programming systems can also provide advice on activities, rest or recovery between sessions. Finally, to from the different pressure and position information, the recording and programming systems are arranged so as to check whether the position or the effort of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention are not suitable, and indicate the adjustments to be made to correct the position or the effort and reduce the physiological risks.

[640] With reference to Figure 6, an example of a method for programming an exercise session implemented by a programmable automatic system provided in the stimulation device according to the invention will now be described.

[650] Each session 6.7-S1,2,i,n of use of the device according to the invention is characterized by a certain number of data. The initial programming data (Intensity: power, duration, gradation, repetitions...) 6.8-PI of a session 6.7-S1,2,i,n come from a calculation step 6.3-C from the objectives of the 6.1-OU user, specificities and limits of the 6.2-SU user, initial 6.4-RIS safety instructions, data from previous sessions. At the end of a session, according to the initial programming 6.8-PI and the results and safety data obtained 6.5-RIS, new data are calculated and stored in memory, and in particular the recovery methods 6.9-R.

[660] Finally, session data 6.7-S1,2,i,n are displayed in step 6.6-A.

[670] These steps previously described are, here, provided by data management systems provided in the stimulation device according to the invention or remotely on equipment such as a tablet or a telephone by connection systems to communication networks. data (internet in particular) also allowing backup, updating, animation, piloting of the stimulation device according to the invention and of the sessions 6.7-S1,2,i,n implemented.

[680] We will now describe a method associated with the use of the stimulation device according to the invention previously described.

[690] Before any use of the stimulation device according to the invention, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention must begin by questioning his personal competence to use it in complete safety, in particular respecting the general constraints and personal, in particular health, which concern him, and by taking care to adopt positions of effort without risks. [700] The user of the stimulation device according to the invention must be warned of the importance of adopting safe positions, specifically with regard to his spine, but also for the knees, the shoulders and the organs specifically vulnerable for itself.

[710] In the absence of proven skills, or in the event of a specific condition, in particular relating to the rheumatic, cardiac, orthopedic or neurological sphere, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention must contact a health professional. qualified as a doctor, a physiotherapist, a physical therapist, in order to obtain advice, to properly use the stimulation device according to the invention, to adopt, if necessary, the precautionary measures necessary for the secure implementation of the stimulation device stimulation according to the invention, or even give up using it if the limitations of the possible user are incompatible with the use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[720] In a standing position, a generic safety position consists of slightly spreading the feet a width between the width of the head and that of the shoulders. The feet form an angle of approximately 10° to 30° between them. Depending on the power, the head is held straight, looking at the horizon or slightly tilted forward. The chest is out by straightening the rib cage, the position of the pelvis is in a neutral position, stomach tucked in, abdominal muscles contracted. The arms are placed along the body in a vertical position. The knees are slightly bent near the position of maximum power of the thighs to be able to exert this power upwards. Such a position is illustrated very schematically in Figure 2.

[730] In the particular case of stimulation of the forearms by compression, the forearms are raised vertically, the arms taking a position compatible with the shape of the user to implement their greatest muscular power. Such a position is illustrated very schematically in Figure 4.

[740] These positions are adapted as necessary, with the advice of a competent healthcare professional, depending on any personal constraints of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention.

[750] Before using the stimulation device according to the invention, the user checks the integrity of the parts, and particularly the moving parts. He proceeds to adjust the height of the securing means 4 in such a way as to be exercised in his zone of greatest efficiency, taking into account both his characteristics personal physiological conditions, and in particular their strength, as well as their possible limitations (mobility, position, injury, pain, fragility, lesion, specific precautions, etc.).

[760] To use the stimulation device according to the invention, the user sets up the securing means 4, climbs onto the platform 1, starts any measurement systems 7a, 7b, piloting, recording and performs a certain number of cycles of muscular effort predefined in duration, power, gradation, rest in such a way as to obtain the desired physiological result, according to its specific characteristics.

[770] The user of the stimulation device according to the invention can also use any effort amplification systems to more easily reach the desired level of effort, according to his abilities, his disabilities and his physiological characteristics. and personal sanitary facilities.

[780] If the user of the stimulation device according to the invention is standing, without using an effort amplification system, the pressure is generated by an effort of the thighs vertically upwards so as to reach the setpoint power during the expected duration of the sequence.

[790] In other cases, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention uses the handles to generate the setpoint pressure level for the duration provided for the current session sequence.

[800] The user of the stimulation device according to the invention thus subjects the organs to be worked (joints, cartilage, muscles, bones) to pressures intense enough to stimulate them, and thus to maintain or strengthen them, and sufficiently to respect their integrity in the short, medium and long term.

[810] In general, the pressures to be used are within a range of between 40% and 80-90% of the maximum power of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or even below or at beyond these limits in certain particular cases, so as to stimulate its most powerful organs without damaging the most fragile. The number of repetitions (5 to 20 repetitions lasting 5 to 30 seconds, separated by rest periods of 5 to 30 seconds, too) is adapted to the power developed.

[820] For his first session, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, surrounded by advice, determines the intensity of the exercise according to his habits. of life, of his known physical abilities, of the common loads he is used to carrying. For increased safety, it is recommended that the user of the stimulation device according to the invention approach a competent health professional (family doctor, physical therapist, physiotherapist, sports doctor, rheumatologist, etc.) to determine the intensity of this first session according to his state of form and health, and particularly of the organs participating in the effort. In conducting each session, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, in certain variant embodiments of the stimulation device according to the invention, is aided by a certain number of visual, light, auditory or kinesthetic signals indicating whether the power and/or the duration of the predefined efforts are reached.

[830] The pressures generated are physiological, that is to say they are entirely the result of the efforts of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, unless the latter decides to use the possible assistance with amplification. The user can interrupt these pressures himself at any time to return almost instantly to a situation of body rest in the starting position (standing slightly bent in general, sometimes in a straight standing position or in a position of more accentuated flexion, possibly seated , depending on their morphology and their state of form and personal health).

[840] Once the session is over, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention disengages and stops the components of the stimulation device according to the invention which require it, possibly puts it away and waits a few days for recovery (typically 2 to 7 days) before starting a new session.

[850] Recovery time depends on effort. The systems for controlling and recording the stimulation device according to the invention can calculate it.

[860] In the event of a session being interrupted for safety reasons (pain, unresolved inadequate position, exceeding thresholds, etc.), the user of the stimulation device according to the invention must not resume use of the device only after a complete analysis of the causes, a reassessment of the objectives and the intensity of the recovery session, in conjunction with a competent health professional.

[870] In the event of interruption of a session in progress for a reason unrelated to safety (accidental interruption), the user of the stimulation device according to the invention can resume the session where it had been interrupted. [880] A session is successful if the user of the stimulation device according to the invention has implemented the entire program provided for said session.

[890] The reference intensity for the next session and the recovery time before this next session depend on the final objectives of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, on his ability to reach and maintain the intensity of reference of the session which has just been completed, and, if this is not possible, in reference to previous sessions.

[900] In the event of a session accidentally interrupted, the intensity of the following session is set to that of the interrupted session.

[910] If it is impossible to achieve the objectives of the session, the recovery time is lengthened (typically doubled), and the program for the next session is drawn up from the last successful session.

[920] As a variant, the program for the successive sessions is calculated by the systems, local or remote, for recording and programming, associated with or provided in the stimulation device according to the invention.

[930] Concretely and purely illustrative, in a first version, called simplified, the stimulation device according to the invention is made as follows

[940] It comprises a platform 1 of dimension 40 cm x 30 cm x 2 cm made of synthetic material (polypropylene, for example), flat on the upper face, reticulated or ribbed on the lower face to stiffen it and give it a resistance capacity of 200 daN, with feet at the four corners 2 cm high.

[950] The stimulation device according to the invention in a simplified version comprises a strap 5 m long, 2 cm wide (polyester for example) with a capacity of 150 daN, passing under the platform 1, closed on itself. even to form a ring by means of a metal wedging loop allowing the length to be adjusted, the ends also protruding to the left and to the right of the base. Two rigid handles, one on the right, the other on the left of the base are made of a hollow rigid synthetic tube with a diameter of 2.5 cm and a length of 12 cm, surrounded by a fitted tube of synthetic foam, the vacuum of the tube rigid allowing the previously mentioned strap to pass through, all with a capacity of 150 daN; [960] A mechanical or electronic weighing system measuring 30 cm x 30 cm equipped with a needle dial or a remote digital screen, with a capacity of 180 kg, equipped with a tare function, is placed on platform 1.

[970] In a second, purely illustrative, so-called complex version, the stimulation device according to the invention is made as follows.

[980] It comprises a flat platform 1 placed on the ground, of dimension 120 cm x 120 cm x 4 cm, formed of a sheet of stainless steel treated with anti-slip, reinforced and stiffened by an expanded metal welded in the lower part, the assembly resting on height-adjustable rubber pads, equipped with two rings placed in the middle position 3 cm from the right and left edges of platform 1 in opposition to each other, with a total support capacity of 500 daN.

[990] In this complex version, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises a yoke (wooden or synthetic or composite beam, comprising a central U-shaped opening for the neck, intended to be placed on the shoulders), fitted with foam comfort and protection for the user's neck and shoulders, with a total width of 1 m, equipped at each end with a ring, capable of supporting two loads of 200 daN. Two independent 200 daN load measuring systems are attached to each ring at the end of the yoke. A force transmission system is made up of two synthetic safety cables 4 m long, with a pulling capacity of 200 daN.

[1000] The stimulation device according to the invention in its complex version, comprises two rigid handles, passed through the force transmission system, one on the right, the other on the left of the base, each fixed to the end of each force transmission cable, made of a hollow synthetic tube 2.5 cm in diameter and 12 cm long, surrounded by a fitted synthetic foam tube, the void in the hollow tube allowing a 45 cm strap to pass through long, 2 cm wide, sewn on itself to form a loop, incorporating a metal ring, all with a capacity of 200 daN.

[1010] In this version, a force amplification system is composed of four single or multiple pulleys forming two hoists with the force transmission cables, fixed to the rings of the base and the yoke.

[1020] The complex version of the stimulation device according to the invention comprises an information display system consisting of a flat electronic screen 20 cm high x 30 cm wide, equipped with an integrated loudspeaker, placed on a desk adjustable in height and connected to the data processing unit by cable or by waves. In addition, the complex version includes a data acquisition and processing system consisting of a microprocessor and memories, equipped with a program, all connected to the screen, to the measurement systems, connectable to a keyboard , equipped with computer connectors (especially USB), and possibly to a database and an external processing center via the Internet. A security system is integrated into the previous one.

[1030] The data acquisition and processing system is implemented as follows. An administrator profile, which can be protected by password, can create, modify, read, suspend, activate and delete all the parameters of the user profiles and their password. The program administrator, who may be the user, enters the basic parameters of the exercises to be carried out into the program (power, number of repetitions, duration of exercises and rest, gradation in the session, safety threshold, duration of recovery before the next session) under the user profile (in the case of a multi-user device) allowing the first stimulation session to be started. These parameters are determined according to the information collected on the form, health and possible limitations of the user. The user of the stimulation device according to the invention starts the system, selects his profile (protectable by a password). The user is guided in his sessions by means of visual instructions (absolute power, percentage of power compared to the reference and the safety, number of repetitions remaining and accomplished, time remaining for the current repetition, inappropriate position, imbalance in the use of the device, approach and crossing of safety thresholds, immediate stop) and auditory (time count, number of repetitions, immediate stop). At the end of the session, a screen summarizes the said session indicating the objectives achieved, the objectives not achieved, the recommended recovery time, the safety points not respected. The program also allows a calculation of the parameters of the following session according to the results of the last session. In the event of a major security problem (in particular exceeding the security thresholds, inability to follow the parameters of the session, imbalance in the use of the device, poorly controlled position, etc.), the program allows a blocking of the user profile. , and displays a notification of the blocking on the administrator screen.

[1040] In view of the foregoing, the stimulation device according to the invention is a device of small dimensions and weight, removable or collapsible, for certain models, compatible with domestic use in cramped accommodation. However, variations in the design and production of the stimulation device according to the invention allow devices for professional environments (sports halls, rehabilitation halls, gymnasiums, physiotherapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy offices, in particular) that are more intensive, both in duration and in terms of acceptable constraints and number of users.

[1050] On the other hand, the stimulation device according to the invention makes it possible to take into account all the characteristics of the user, both his strengths and his physiological limitations both in terms of joints (cartilages), skeleton (bones), than musculature (muscles, tendons). Indeed, thanks to its adjustment systems, the stimulation device according to the invention can be adjusted to each user to allow him a position adapted to his morphology, his constraints and his possible limitations with a variation of position limited throughout. throughout the effort to stay in one's comfort zone, with sufficient power and safety, while having a physiological effect on the target organs. It is particularly possible to respect painful positions to avoid, positions of organic weakness or inadequate strength...

[1060] Indeed, the stimulation device according to the invention allows the user to exert series of efforts comprised between 40% and 80-90% of its maximum power, making it possible both to stimulate the muscles and the skeleton while respecting the integrity of the cartilages according to the most recent scientific publications. In addition, the stimulation device according to the invention can make it possible to go below (approximately 5%) or beyond (95 to 100%) this zone for specific needs (tests of maximum power or limitations, in particular ).

[1070] Unlike devices that compress the whole body, the stimulation device according to the invention subjects a specific subset of organs to stimulations that are limited and sufficient to have a physiological effect while remaining within the specific safety zone of all involved organs of the user.

[1080] In addition, unlike these devices or entirely rigid devices where the effort is made in a fixed and stiffened position, the flexibility of the stimulation device according to the invention, adjustable in certain modalities, can allow the user a slight movement of certain motor organs of the body to reach the desired level of effort, thus preventing the risks inherent in static efforts, potentially harmful to joints and cartilage.

[1090] Compared to recent devices such as vibrating platforms where the passive user undergoes an automated process, even if personalized, with a device of stimulation according to the invention, the user is active and himself applies the physiological efforts according to his abilities and his sensations. In case of necessity, discomfort or internal physiological signal, he can immediately stop his efforts and return to an initial resting situation, which is impossible with an automatic or semi-automatic machine, whether mechanical or electrical. With the stimulation device according to the invention, the user autopilots and permanently controls the stimulation device according to the invention and his physical effort, therefore the stimulation applied to his organs.

[1100] The stimulation device according to the invention transmits efforts of progressively and continuously variable power, never allowing the domain of shocks or frequencies harmful to the cartilages to be reached, as is the risk with vibration devices or impact.

[1110] Unlike conventional weight-training or rehabilitation devices where a fixed effort is chosen by means of a counterweight, the stimulation device according to the invention allows the user to vary his effort continuously in real time, taking account of his instantaneous state of form, sensibility and health.

[1120] Unlike conventional weight training or rehabilitation devices where all or part of the effort must be continued as long as the counterweight has not returned to the starting position, the user can, by using the stimulation device according to the invention, stop his effort without delay and without latency, and without noticeable movement or with minimal movement, depending on the setting that he himself has defined for his own comfort and his own safety.

[1130] Unlike conventional weight training or rehabilitation devices, where the user starts from an extreme position, then goes through various intermediate positions before reaching another extreme terminal position opposite the first, which can lead to delicate positions or painful, or even dangerous, the stimulation device according to the invention makes it possible to work in a precise position or in the immediate vicinity of this position, avoiding the risks and disadvantages associated with intermediate or extreme, painful or dangerous positions.

[1140] Unlike conventional devices which must be subject to particular and complex adjustments (manipulation of loads or counterweights with non-physiological positions, for example) or which cannot be used by people suffering from rheumatic attacks or various permanent disabilities or temporary (fracture, partial paralysis, sprain, amputation, etc.), the stimulation device according to the invention may comprise several morphological adjustment systems. It can be used by most users with a single height adjustment of the gripping or fixing means, in certain modalities. This adjustment can possibly be done while seated on a chair without having to lift a load for the adjustment.

[1150] Of course, it is possible to make many modifications to the invention without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Device for stimulating certain organs of the body of a user in a standing or seated position, characterized in that it comprises a platform (1) arranged so as to be able to support the user, in particular in a standing or seated position, force transmission means (3) positioned between the platform and the user, during use of the stimulation device, securing means (4) to the user.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the platform (1) supports or incorporates a seat (2).

3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the seat is mounted fixed with the platform.

4. Device according to claim 1 to 3, characterized in that the device comprises stimulation measurement systems (7a, 7b) and a system for visualizing efforts and their modalities (8).

5. Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the means for securing the user comprise a belt or a harness or a yoke or handles or bracelets or bandages or any combination of these last.

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the device comprises one or more adaptation or adjustment means (6,9) fixed or integrated on the transmission means or on the securing means .

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises force amplification systems (5) associated with the force transmission means.

8. Device according to claim 7, characterized in that the force amplification systems are operable by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other means, in particular a mechanical hoist or an electric actuator or a cylinder or a pantograph.

9. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the device comprises position control systems or safety of the user, in particular in the plate or the position of the back, in the approach, reaching or exceeding a predefined effort threshold or imbalance in the application of efforts.

10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the device comprises a programmable automatic system of an exercise session.

11. Device according to claim 10, characterized in that the programmable automatic system is arranged so as to carry out an acquisition or a processing or a piloting or a visual or sound or kinesthetic restitution of the data or the programs of the sessions.

12. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it further comprises remote data connection, processing and storage systems, arranged so as to allow in particular a backup, an update , animation, piloting, control and/or remote supervision.

13. Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the device is arranged so that all or part of the device is modular.

14. Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the device is arranged so that all or part of the device is easily removable.

15. Device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the device is arranged so that all or part of the device is foldable, so as to limit the space occupied outside of use of the device.