EP4138759B1 - Connection arrangement, functional unit and pump for a fitness, beauty or wellness device, and method for operating such a fitness, beauty or wellness device - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a connection device for a fitness, beauty or wellness device, as well as a functional unit and a pump that interact with such a connection device. The invention also relates to a fitness, beauty or wellness device which includes the connection device, the functional unit and the pump. In addition, the invention relates to a method for operating the fitness, beauty or wellness device.

Due to the constantly advancing technology, modern technology has also found its way into the areas of fitness, beauty and wellness. Conventional applications and methods for caring for and shaping one's own body can be improved through the use of new techniques. The focus here is often on the so-called problem zones, especially thighs and abdomen. For this reason, clothing and cuffs were designed that unfold their effect, particularly through stimulation current, heat or massages, especially in the problem areas.

WO 2014/117984 A1 and WO 2014/117986 A2 disclose fitness equipment in the form of a waist belt and pants. The fitness equipment comprises at least one pressure chamber that can be pressurized with a fluid, in particular air, that is suitable for lying against a part of a person's body, a pump device that is connected to the pressure chamber and is suitable for the pressure chamber to be acted upon with the fluid, and a control device for controlling the pump device. The pumping device is held by a carrying strap provided for this purpose.

Out of WO 2018/149968 A1 a fitness device that can be worn on the body is known, which has a holder for attaching a pump. The pump can be connected to connectors that are held on the fitness machine by means of a mounting plate. Lines lead from the connections to the pressure chambers of the fitness equipment, which are laid on the mounting plate. WO 2018/149968 A1 discloses a generic connecting device.

Furthermore, from the non-generic EP 3 207 911 A1 a lying device for a patient is known, which comprises a frame and a lying surface. A foot end, which is attached to the frame, has an interior area in which is located a compression module used to inflate a compression sleeve for the patient with air.

The invention is based on the object of creating a connection device, a pump for a fitness, beauty or wellness device, a fitness, beauty or wellness device and a method for operating such a fitness, beauty or wellness device that is more compact Design and attractive appearance ensure simple and practical handling.

This object is achieved by a connection device for a fitness, beauty or wellness device according to claim 1, a pump for a fitness, beauty or wellness device according to claim 9, a fitness, beauty or wellness device according to claim 14 and a method of operation a fitness, beauty or wellness device according to claim 16. Advantageous configurations of the invention are the subject of claims 2 to 8, 10 to 13 and 15.

- The connection device -

The connection device according to the invention for a fitness, beauty or wellness device comprises a carrier plate that can be attached to a functional unit that is worn on the body of a person using the fitness, beauty or wellness device, for example by plugging, gluing, welding or sewing , or is an integral part of the functional unit. The connection device also includes a first pump connection and a second pump connection, which are arranged at a predetermined distance from one another on the support plate, the first pump connection and the second pump connection serving to connect the connection device to a pump in a fluid-conducting manner. The support plate serves to keep the pump connections at the specified distance. The connection device also includes a first air chamber connection, which is connected to the first pump connection, and a second air chamber connection, which is connected to the second pump connection, the first air chamber connection and the second air chamber connection being used to connect the connection device to the functional unit in a fluid-conducting manner.

According to the invention, the first pump connection and/or the second pump connection can be moved from a normal position into a connection position against the action of a restoring force, in such a way that the distance between the pump connections can be changed by means of a force acting on the first pump connection and/or the second pump connection and so that the pump can be introduced between the pump connections and then connected to the pump connections. The pump is permanently held by the connection to the pump connections on the connection device, in particular by positive and non-positive locking. The pump connections are expediently made of an elastically deformable or flexible material, for example rubber or a rubber-like plastic, which allows the distance between the pump connections to be reversibly changed.

In a preferred embodiment of the connection device, the first pump connection and/or the second pump connection have an actuating aid, by means of which a force can be exerted in order to move the first pump connection and/or the second pump connection from the normal position into the connection position. The actuating aid preferably has a gripping area and a holding area adjoining the gripping area, which ensures easy gripping with the hand. The actuation aid makes it possible to either increase or decrease the distance between the pump connections, depending on how the pressure ports on the pump assigned to the pump connections are configured.

Preferably, the first pump port and the second pump port each have an opening that defines a flow axis. The flow axis is suitably a normal vector to the plane of the opening. Preferably, the first pump port and the second pump port are configured such that the openings face each other, further preferably the flow axes of the openings being substantially coaxial. The flow axes thus define a connection axis for fastening the pump. Depending on the application, however, it would also be conceivable to design the pump connections, for example by providing fastening flanges, in such a way that the connection axis resulting from the fastening flanges is independent of the flow axes of the openings.

In a further preferred embodiment, the connection device has at least one closure device for closing the pump connections. The closure device is preferably designed as a drop-shaped plug, which is expediently arranged on the carrier plate and/or on the first pump connection and/or on the second pump connection by means of a flexible rod or strand. The closure device preferably consists of an elastically deformable Material, in particular made of silicone. The teardrop shape of the plug makes the plug slim so that it can be easily pulled off the pump ports. In particular when the connecting device is permanently connected to the functional unit, for example sewn, the connecting device cannot be easily removed from the functional unit in order to wash it. In this case, it is necessary to tightly close the pump connections before washing. This can be done by means of the closure device.

The first air chamber connection and the second air chamber connection preferably each have an opening which defines a flow axis. The flow axis is suitably also a normal vector to the plane of the opening. Advantageously, the flow axes of the openings of the air chamber connections and the flow axes of the openings of the pump connections enclose an angle which is preferably between 10° and 170°, more preferably between 50° and 130°, more preferably between 80° and 100°, and more preferably approx is 90°. The first air chamber connection and the second air chamber connection are preferably designed in such a way that the flow axes of the openings run essentially parallel.

In a further preferred embodiment, the connecting device has at least one connecting piece which is connected to the first air chamber connection and/or to the second air chamber connection. The connecting piece is advantageously inserted in a non-positive manner into the opening of the first air chamber connection and/or the second air chamber connection and preferably has the shape of an angle, in particular a right angle. The connecting piece or angle piece, which is expediently made of a comparatively hard material, can be connected to the air chamber connections by means of a press fit and thus ensures simple assembly that does not require gluing.

In a further preferred embodiment, the connecting device has a distributor which is fluid-conductingly connected to the first air chamber connection and/or to the second air chamber connection. If the functional unit has more than two air chambers, the distributor, which is preferably connected to the connecting piece, enables these to be connected to the air chamber connections.

The distributor is preferably connected to the first air chamber connection and/or to the second air chamber connection, in particular to the connecting piece, in a fluid-conducting manner via at least one hose, so that the distributor can be arranged at a suitable location on the functional unit, spatially independent of the pump connections. Advantageously, the carrier plate has at least one cutout for guiding and/or fixing the tube, so that it is reliably held on the air chamber connections, in particular on the connecting piece.

In a preferred embodiment, the distributor comprises a first inlet connection piece which is connected to the first air chamber connection in a fluid-conducting manner, a second inlet connection piece which is connected to the second air-chamber connection connection in a fluid-conducting manner, at least one first outlet connection piece which can be connected in a fluid-conducting manner to a first air chamber of the functional unit, and at least one second outlet port which can be fluidly connected to a second air chamber of the functional unit. The inlet sockets and the outlet sockets ensure a simple and reliable connection of the distributor to the air chamber connections of the connection device on the one hand and the air chambers of the functional unit on the other hand. The distributor is preferably made entirely or at least partially of an elastically deformable material, in particular silicone, so that the risk of breakage is virtually ruled out even during intensive fitness training.

The distributor advantageously has at least two first outlet sockets and at least two second outlet sockets, so that at least four air chambers of the functional unit can be supplied with fluid. The first Outlet sockets are connected to the first inlet socket by means of two first connecting channels. The second outlet sockets are connected to the second inlet socket by means of two second connecting channels. In this context, it has proven to be particularly advantageous if the distributor is composed of an upper part and a lower part in which the connecting channels are formed. The top defines a first flow plane and the bottom defines a second flow plane. One of the first connecting channels is interrupted in the first flow plane and designed to be continuous in the second flow plane, whereas one of the second connecting channels is interrupted in the second flow plane and designed to be continuous in the first flow plane. Such an embodiment makes it possible to cross the connecting channels by guiding the continuous connecting channel in the gap created by the interrupted connecting channel. A compact configuration of the distributor is thus ensured.

- The functional unit -

The functional unit for a fitness, beauty or wellness device, which is worn on the body of a person using the fitness, beauty or wellness device, comprises at least one air chamber which is fluid-conducting with the first air chamber connection and/or with the second air chamber connection of the connection device according to the invention is connectable. The carrier plate of the connecting device can be attached to the functional unit, for example by plugging, gluing, welding or sewing, or it can be designed as an integral part of the functional unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the functional unit is in the form of a shirt or trousers, as can be seen in the patent specification EP 2 827 826 B1 is known, or as a cuff, preferably as a waist belt or as an upper arm cuff like them from the patent EP 2 020 979 B1 are known designed. Reference is made to the disclosure content of the aforementioned patent specifications.

The functional unit is expediently made of a textile material, which is in particular multi-layered, or has a cover which is preferably double-walled and/or at least partially flexible and/or water-impermeable. The carrier plate and/or the distributor of the connection device are preferably attached to the textile material or to the cover, in particular sewn in or inserted into pockets, for example.

- The pump -

The pump according to the invention for a fitness, beauty or wellness device comprises a first pressure connection for connection to the first pump connection of the connection device according to the invention and a second pressure connection for connection to the second pump connection of the connection device. The first pressure port and the second pressure port each have an opening that defines a flow axis. The first pressure port and the second pressure port are arranged such that the openings face away from each other, preferably diametrically. The pump is held permanently and reliably on the connection device by the pressure nozzles connected to the pump connections.

Preferably the flow axes of the openings are substantially coaxial with the result that the flow axes define a connection axis for attachment of the pump. In a preferred embodiment, the flow axes of the openings in the pressure ports and the flow axes of the openings in the pump connections are essentially coaxial, resulting in a common connection axis.

The pump has a center of gravity, i.e. a center of mass. The flow axes of the openings of the pressure ports preferably run through the center of gravity or at least in the vicinity of the center of gravity. A connection axis or coupling axis that runs through the center of gravity or at least in the vicinity of the center of gravity of the pump has proven to be particularly advantageous for a reliable and permanent attachment of the pump to the connection device, which also withstands the movements and vibrations that occur during intensive endurance training can occur. The result is a balanced attachment of the pump and thus a reduced moment of inertia around the coupling axis, which results in a comfortable fit, especially during sporting activity. In addition, the pump cannot easily detach from the connection device, even during intense activity.

The pump suitably includes a housing having a front, a back, a top, a middle and a bottom. The first pressure port and/or the second pressure port are advantageously arranged in the middle area, a configuration that contributes to largely reducing undesired tilting movements of the pump when the fitness, beauty or wellness device is used for sport. In this context, it has proven to be advantageous if the ratio of the upper area to the middle area to the lower area is between (1 to 1/8):(1 to 1/8):(1 to 1/8), preferably 1: 1 : 1 or 3/8 : 2/8 : 3/8 or 2/8 : 2/8 : 4/8.

The terms "upper area", "middle area" and "lower area" refer to the pump in the intended state attached to the connection device. In this state, the upper area faces the upper body and the lower area faces the lower body. The middle area separates the upper area from the lower area. The upper, middle and lower areas can have identical dimensions along the height of the pump, ie be the same size along the height of the pump and each make up one third of the height. However, the upper, middle and lower areas can also have different heights. For example, the top area can be three-eighths of the height, the middle area can be two-eighths of the height, and the bottom area can be three-eighths of the height. The upper area and the lower area can also be of different sizes. For example, the top area can be two-eighths of the height, the middle area can be two-eighths of the height, and the bottom area can be four-eighths of the height. Depending on the application, other ratios between the upper area, the middle area and the lower area are also possible.

The housing expediently has at least one depression on the rear side, in which the first pressure connection and/or the second pressure connection are arranged. When the pump is connected to the connection device, the pump connections come to lie in the recess, so that the The connection between the discharge nozzle and the pump connections is covered by the housing and is thus protected against unintentional loosening.

In a preferred embodiment, the housing has a generally triangular shape, thereby giving the pump an appearance that is both pleasing and ergonomic.

Preferably, the pump has a generally circular recess in the front of the housing. The indentation allows the pump to be branded or similarly identified in a prominent location. In this context, it has proven to be advantageous if the depression is surrounded by a substantially ring-shaped wall. The wall can preferably be designed to be illuminated, for example by means of LEDs, in order in particular to visually emphasize the depression and/or to indicate the operating mode of the pump, for example.

The pump expediently has an activation switch for switching the pump on and off, which is preferably arranged in the upper area of the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the pump can have an actuating switch for setting the power level of the pump, which is preferably arranged in the upper area of the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the pump can have an actuating switch for setting the operating mode of the pump, which is preferably arranged in the upper area of the housing.

The pump also expediently has at least one indicator light, which is used to indicate the position of the actuating switch, and/or a battery that can preferably be charged wirelessly.

- The fitness, beauty or wellness device -

The fitness, beauty or wellness device according to the invention is characterized by the connection device according to the invention Functional unit and the pump according to the invention. The support plate is attached to the functional unit or is part of the functional unit. The functional unit is fluidically connected to the connection device by the air chamber connections. The pump is connected to the connection device in a fluid-conducting manner through the pump connections and is thereby reliably held on the connection device at the same time.

- Procedure for operating a fitness, beauty or wellness device -

1. (i) Verbinden des ersten Druckstutzens der Pumpe mit dem ersten Pumpenanschluss;
2. (ii) Ausüben einer Kraftwirkung auf den ersten Pumpenanschluss und/oder den zweiten Pumpenanschluss, um den Abstand zwischen dem ersten Pumpenanschluss und dem zweiten Pumpenanschluss zu verändern, etwa zu vergrößern oder zu verkleinern;
3. (iii) Einbringen der Pumpe zwischen die Pumpenanschlüsse;
4. (iv) Verbinden des zweiten Druckstutzens der Pumpe mit dem zweiten Pumpenanschluss, und zwar so dass die Pumpe durch die Verbindung der Druckstutzen mit den Pumpenanschlüssen dauerhaft an der Anschlusseinrichtung und damit an der Funktionseinheit gehalten wird.

The method according to the invention for operating, i.e. in particular for handling, a fitness, beauty or wellness device comprises the following steps:

1. (i) connecting the first discharge port of the pump to the first pump port;
2. (ii) applying a force to the first pump port and/or the second pump port to change, such as increase or decrease, the distance between the first pump port and the second pump port;
3. (iii) inserting the pump between the pump ports;
4. (iv) connecting the second pressure connection of the pump to the second pump connection, in such a way that the pump is permanently held on the connection device and thus on the functional unit by connecting the pressure connection to the pump connections.

- Further developments and advantages of the invention -

The pump is a device that is able to pump fluids, in particular air. By connecting the pump connections to the pressure ports of the pump, the fluid can be routed from the pump into the connection device and from there on to the air chambers of the functional unit. The fluid is conducted into the functional unit through the air chamber connections of the connection device. The functional unit is suitably provided with two or more air chambers that alternate or can be pressurized simultaneously with compressed air, with each air chamber being assigned its own air chamber connection. In order to pressurize the air chambers independently of one another, fluid connections which connect the pump connections and the air chamber connections to one another can be separated from one another in a fluid-tight manner.

The air chambers of the functional unit can be charged with the fluid simultaneously or alternately, with the pump advantageously providing different operating modes which primarily allow the air chambers to be charged in an alternating, simultaneous or temporally overlapping manner. By applying pressure to the air chambers, in particular by applying pressure alternately, a massage effect is achieved when the functional unit is worn on the body of a person using the fitness, beauty or wellness device. For this purpose, the functional unit can be designed, for example, as trousers or as a waist belt. Other configurations of the functional unit can also be considered, for example as a shirt or upper arm cuff.

The direct connection of the pressure nozzle of the pump to the pump connections of the connecting device is primarily used to reliably hold the pump on the connecting device and thus on the functional unit, but at the same time ensures a compact design in which no lines or hoses are routed. This results in a visually appealing design. In addition, it is avoided that a person using the fitness, beauty or wellness device gets caught on lines or hoses when doing fitness exercises.

The pump connections can be moved relative to one another under the action of force against the action of a restoring force, in particular can be deflected relative to one another. When the acting force ceases, the restoring force causes the pump connections to return to their normal position and the distance between the pump connections is returned to its initial value, in particular reduced or increased. In this condition the pump is held securely at the two pump connections by force fit and/or form fit. The mobility of the pump connections can be achieved by choosing a material for the connection device and/or for the pump connections that has elastic properties. The pump connections can thus be moved individually or both under the action of force, in particular moved away from the respective other pump connection. The mobility of the connections relative to one another simplifies the attachment of the pump to the pump connections. These can, for example, be moved apart by a force in order to increase the distance between the pump connections and to be able to introduce the pump with its air connections between the pump connections. The pump connections can then be conveniently connected to the pressure ports. Due to the restoring force, the pump ports exert an action towards the pump ports returning to their original position as soon as they are released to connect to the air ports of the pump. This will reduce the distance between the pump ports to its original value and hold the pump securely at the two pump ports.

The connecting device preferably has a third and a fourth air chamber connection, with a first fluid connection expediently connecting the first pump connection to the first and/or third air chamber connection in a fluid-conducting manner, and the second fluid connection connecting the second pump connection to the second and/or fourth air-chamber connection in a fluid-conducting manner. This can be used in particular in the case that the functional unit is designed as a pair of pants and each pant leg has two air chambers. In this case, the first and second fluid connections are each connected to an air chamber connection of the left trouser leg and to an air chamber connection of the right trouser leg.

In a preferred embodiment, the first pump connection and/or the second pump connection are angled, preferably approximately at right angles. In particular, the first pump connection and the second pump connection can be angled in such a way that they face each other.

For easier handling, in an advantageous embodiment, the first pump connection and/or the second pump connection has the actuation aid for connecting or disconnecting the pump to or from the connection device. The actuation aid can be an integral part of the respective pump connection. Furthermore, the actuation aid can have a gripping area that is suitable for being held with a thumb and a forefinger, and a nub closing off the gripping area, the holding area, which prevents the fingers from slipping off the gripping area. In a further advantageous embodiment, the actuation aid protrudes in an extension of the angled area of the respective pump connection. The pump connection can be easily guided using the actuating aid and thereby connected to the pump or removed from the pump.

Preferably, the first fluid connection has a first fluid chamber extending in a first flow plane and the second fluid connection has a second fluid chamber extending in a second flow plane, the first flow plane and the second flow plane being mutually parallel. The result of this design is that the fluid chambers are arranged parallel to one another, which results in a small design of the connection device that is not disruptive, particularly when performing fitness exercises.

In this context, it has proven to be expedient if a separating element is provided which separates the fluid chambers from one another in a fluid-tight manner, with the separating element preferably extending parallel to the first flow plane and the second flow plane. The divider can preferably be designed as a relatively thin insert, in particular made of plastic, which has a similar or identical shape to the fluid chambers. The separating element can advantageously have a border provided with cutouts, the cutouts being arranged in order to connect the fluid chambers to the pump connections and/or the air chamber connections in a fluid-conducting manner. The rim provided with recesses enables a compact design and simple manufacture of the separating element, which at the same time ensures that the fluid chambers are correctly connected to the respective pump connections or air chamber connections.

The connection device is preferably designed to be introduced into the functional unit, with the connection device having a pump connection area in which the pump connections are arranged and which is designed to protrude at least partially out of the functional unit, and an air chamber connection area in which the air chamber connections are arranged and the is designed to be fixed in the functional unit has. This allows the connection device to be attached directly to a functional unit, with the pump connections protruding from the functional unit where they can be connected to a pump, and the air chamber connections being fitted in the functional unit in order to be able to deliver air to the air chambers.

Advantageously, the first fluid connection has a first channel and the second fluid connection has a second channel, the channels extending through the pump connection area, the first channel being fluidly connected to the first pump connection and the second channel being fluidly connected to the second pump connection. The channels allow the air to be routed from the pump ports to the air chamber ports. Due to the fact that the channels extend through the pump connection area, they are predominantly arranged outside of the functional unit. This results in a certain distance between the pump connections to the functional unit, which in particular makes it easier to connect the pump.

The distributor expediently has a housing which preferably comprises a first housing part which has a groove and a second housing part which has a spring which engages in the groove. The spring preferably separates the first connection channel and the second connection channel from one another. The two-part design facilitates the manufacture of the housing. The housing parts can be connected to one another with a positive fit and/or with a material fit. In particular, the housing parts can be glued together. The tongue and groove connection facilitates the gluing of the housing parts and also ensures the fluid-tight separation of the connecting channels.

The housing is preferably arranged at least partially in the air chamber connection area and has assembly openings for fastening the air chamber connection area to the functional unit. The openings can be attached in particular to an edge or shoulder of the housing and can be used, for example, to sew the housing to the functional unit.

The functional unit preferably has a first layer and a second layer, which advantageously consist of a textile, which in particular can have plastic fibers. The connection device is inserted between the layers in such a way that the pump connections protrude from the functional unit. For this purpose, the second layer preferably has an opening through which the connecting device extends. By inserting the connection device between the layers of the functional unit, a large part of the connection device is not visible from the outside, resulting in a visually appealing appearance. In addition, when the functional unit is worn on the body, the connection device does not have any direct contact with the body, so that there is no uncomfortable feeling when wearing it.

The fitness, beauty or wellness device can preferably have a holding device for holding the connection device at the opening. The holding device ensures that the connection device is held securely at the opening, so that it is not inadvertently pulled out of the functional unit. In addition, the holding device can also seal the opening.

Fig. 1

eine perspektivische Ansicht von einer Funktionseinheit in Form einer Hose und einer Anschlusseinrichtung in einer ersten Ausführungsform für eine Fitness-, Beauty- oder Wellnessvorrichtung;

Fig. 2

eine perspektivische Ansicht von einer Funktionseinheit in Form eines Bauchgurts für eine Fitness-, Beauty- oder Wellnessvorrichtung;

Fig. 3

eine perspektivische Ansicht von der ersten Ausführungsform der Anschlusseinrichtung;

Fig. 4

eine Explosionsdarstellung einer in der Anzahl von Luftkammeranschlüssen abgewandelten Ausgestaltung der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 3;

Fig. 5

eine teilgeschnittene Draufsicht auf die Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 3, die an einer Funktionseinheit befestigt ist;

Fig. 6

eine Seitenansicht der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 5;

Fig. 7

eine Explosionsdarstellung der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 3 aus einer ersten Perspektive;

Fig. 8

eine Explosionsdarstellung der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 3 aus einer zweiten Perspektive;

Fig. 9

eine Explosionsdarstellung der Anschlusseinrichtung in einer zweiten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 10

eine teilgeschnittene Draufsicht auf die Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 9;

Fig. 11

eine perspektivische Ansicht von einem Ausschnitt einer Funktionseinheit in Form eines Bauchgurts, in welche die Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 9 eingebracht ist;

Fig. 12

eine perspektivische Ansicht, die zeigt, wie eine Pumpe für eine Fitness-, Beauty- oder Wellnessvorrichtung mit der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 21 verbunden wird;

Fig. 13

eine Explosionsdarstellung der Anschlusseinrichtung in einer dritten Ausführungsform;

Fig. 14

eine Draufsicht auf die Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 13;

Fig. 15

eine Ansicht von unten auf die Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 13;

Fig. 16

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Pumpenanschlusses der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 13 aus einer ersten Perspektive;

Fig. 17

eine perspektivische Ansicht des Pumpenanschlusses gemäß Fig. 16 aus einer zweiten Perspektive;

Fig. 18

einen Querschnitt durch einen Verteiler der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 13;

Fig. 19

einen Schnitt entlang der Linie A-A in Fig. 18;

Fig. 20

einen Schnitt entlang der Linie B-B in Fig. 18;

Fig. 21

einen Schnitt entlang der Linie C-C in Fig. 18;

Fig. 22

eine Draufsicht auf eine Pumpe für eine Fitness-, Beauty- oder Wellnessvorrichtung, welche die Pumpe mit einem einseitig angeschlossenen Pumpenanschluss zeigt;

Fig. 23

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Pumpe gemäß Fig. 22 aus einer ersten Perspektive, welche die Vorderseite der Pumpe zeigt;

Fig. 24

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Pumpe gemäß Fig. 22 aus einer zweiten Perspektive, welche die Rückseite der Pumpe zeigt;

Fig. 25

eine perspektivische Ansicht von einem Ausschnitt einer Funktionseinheit in Form eines Bauchgurts, in welche die Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 13 eingebracht ist;

Fig. 26

eine Draufsicht auf den Ausschnitt gemäß Fig. 25;

Fig. 27

eine Seitenansicht von dem Ausschnitt gemäß Fig. 25;

Fig. 28

eine perspektivische Ansicht aus einer ersten Perspektive, die zeigt, wie die Pumpe gemäß Fig. 22 mit der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 25 verbunden wird;

Fig. 29

eine perspektivische Ansicht aus einer zweiten Perspektive, die zeigt, wie die Pumpe gemäß Fig. 22 mit der Anschlusseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 25 verbunden wird;

Fig. 30

eine Draufsicht auf den Ausschnitt gemäß Fig. 25 und die Pumpe gemäß Fig. 22 nachdem die Pumpe mit der Anschlusseinrichtung verbunden worden ist; und

Fig. 31

eine Seitenansicht, die den Ausschnitt gemäß Fig. 25 und die Pumpe gemäß Fig. 22 zeigt nachdem die Pumpe mit der Anschlusseinrichtung verbunden worden ist.

The invention is described in more detail below using exemplary embodiments. In the schematic drawings show:

1

a perspective view of a functional unit in the form of pants and a connecting device in a first embodiment for a fitness, beauty or wellness device;

2

a perspective view of a functional unit in the form of a waist belt for a fitness, beauty or wellness device;

3

a perspective view of the first embodiment of the connection device;

4

an exploded view of an embodiment of the connection device modified in terms of the number of air chamber connections according to FIG 3 ;

figure 5

a partially sectioned top view of the connection device according to FIG 3 , which is attached to a functional unit;

6

a side view of the connection device according to FIG figure 5 ;

7

according to an exploded view of the connection device 3 from a first perspective;

8

according to an exploded view of the connection device 3 from a second perspective;

9

an exploded view of the connection device in a second embodiment;

10

a partially sectioned top view of the connection device according to FIG 9 ;

11

a perspective view of a section of a functional unit in the form of a waist belt, in which the connection device according to 9 is introduced;

12

a perspective view showing how a pump for a fitness, beauty or wellness device with the connection device according to FIG 21 is connected;

13

an exploded view of the connection device in a third embodiment;

14

a plan view of the connection device according to FIG 13 ;

15

a view from below of the connection device according to FIG 13 ;

16

a perspective view of a pump connection according to the connection device 13 from a first perspective;

17

a perspective view of the pump connection according to FIG 16 from a second perspective;

18

according to a cross section through a distributor of the connection device 13 ;

19

a cut along the line AA in 18 ;

20

a cut along line BB in 18 ;

21

a cut along the line CC in 18 ;

22

a plan view of a pump for a fitness, beauty or wellness device, which shows the pump with a pump connection connected at one end;

23

a perspective view of the pump according to FIG 22 from a first perspective showing the front of the pump;

24

a perspective view of the pump according to FIG 22 from a second perspective showing the back of the pump;

25

a perspective view of a section of a functional unit in the form of a waist belt, in which the connection device according to 13 is introduced;

26

a plan view of the section according to FIG 25 ;

27

a side view of the section according to FIG 25 ;

28

a perspective view from a first perspective showing how the pump according to FIG 22 with the connection device according to 25 is connected;

29

a perspective view from a second perspective showing how the pump according to 22 with the connection device according to 25 is connected;

30

a plan view of the section according to FIG 25 and the pump according to 22 after the pump has been connected to the connector; and

31

a side view according to the detail 25 and the pump according to 22 shows after the pump has been connected to the connection device.

- first and second embodiment of the connection device of a fitness, beauty or wellness device -

1 shows a functional unit 10 of a fitness, beauty or wellness device, which is designed in the form of pants. In a first embodiment, a connection device 30 is attached to the functional unit 10, to which the functional unit 10 is connected in a fluid-conducting manner. As the Figures 3 to 8 indicate that the connection device 30 comprises a first pump connection 31a and a second pump connection 31b for the fluid-conducting connection of a pump 50, as shown in FIG 12 is shown, with the connecting device 30.

2 FIG. 1 shows a functional unit 10 in the form of a waist belt which is provided with the connection device 30. FIG. The functional unit 10 comprises a closure area 15, which has two sub-areas, which are arranged at opposite ends of the functional unit 10, and a receiving area 16, which is connected to the closure area 15 and extends in an extension direction E. The closure area 15 is used to close the functional unit 10 so that it can be placed around a person's stomach and held there. For this purpose, the closure area 15 can have a Velcro fastener, buttons, a zip fastener or similar fasteners.

How in particular 6 shows, the receiving area 16 has a first layer 11 and a second layer 12 connected to the first layer 11, which consist of a textile or a cover that is preferably double-walled and/or at least partially flexible and/or water-impermeable. A functional device 17 which extends in a direction E is accommodated between the layers 11 , 12 . The functional device 17 comprises a fluid-tight first air chamber 18a and a fluid-tight second air chamber 18b. The first air chamber 18a is connected to the first pump port 31a and the second air chamber 18b is connected to the second pump port 31a connected, so that the air chambers 18a, 18b can be supplied with air by the pump 50 independently of one another. The pump connections 31a, 31b protrude through an opening in the first layer 11 or the second layer 12. When the air chambers 18a, 18b are charged with air, a massage effect is achieved when the functional unit 10 is worn on a person's body. In order to achieve an effective massage effect along the direction of extension E, which can be generated on as large an area of the abdominal circumference as possible, the first air chamber 18a and the second air chamber 18b form alternating massage zones that run essentially transversely to the direction of extension E.

The functional device 17 can have two slots 20a, 20b, which run essentially transversely to the direction of extent E. The first layer 11 and the second layer 12 can be sewn together along the slits 20a, 20b. The first layer 11 and the second layer 12 form a shell in which the functional device 17 is accommodated. The functional device 17 has bulges with which it is hooked into the seams running along the slots 20a, 20b. The functional device 17 is thus held immovably between the layers 11, 12.

In the case of the functional unit 10 designed as a pair of trousers, the connection device 30 according to FIG 1 and in the case of the functional unit 10 designed as a waist belt according to FIG 2 Find application.

How in particular 10 can be seen, the pump connections 31a, 31b are arranged at a distance d from one another and can be deflected relative to one another against a restoring force. The pump connections 31a, 31b are in the second embodiment of the connection device 30 in the Figures 9 to 12 as shown, are angled substantially at right angles so that their end openings 48a, 48b face the other of the pump ports 31a, 31b and the other of the openings 48a, 48b. The openings 48a, 48b are substantially coaxial about a Axis A formed, but directed in opposite directions. The deflectability against a restoring force and the angled pump connections 31a, 31b facing one another serve to facilitate the connection of the pump 50, as in FIGS 11 and 12 shown and explained later.

The connection device 30 is, in particular, as the 4 , 5 and 9 give to recognize, provided with air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, the embodiment according to 4 and 9 a total of four air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d and the embodiment according to figure 5 has a total of two air chamber connections 32a, 32b. The air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d are each used for the fluid-conducting connection of the connection device 30 to the functional unit 10. Each air chamber connection 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d can be assigned an air chamber 18a, 18b.

Like those in particular 3 and 9 indicate that the connecting device 30 has a housing 35 which is composed of housing parts 44a, 44b which are glued together. In the housing 35 there runs a first fluid connection 33a, which fluidly connects the first pump connection 31a to the first air chamber connection 32a, and a second fluid connection 33b, which fluidly connects the second pump connection 31b to the second air chamber connection 32b. In the embodiment according to 4 and 9 the first fluid connection 33a also connects the first pump connection 31a to the third air chamber connection 32c in a fluid-conducting manner, and the second fluid connection 33b also connects the second pump connection 31b to the fourth air-chamber connection 32d in a fluid-conducting manner. The fluid connections 33a, 33b each comprise channels 34a, 34b, which extend from the pump connections 31a, 31b to the air chamber connections 32a, 32b, or in the exemplary embodiment with four air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d from the pump connections 31a, 31b to fluid chambers 43a , 43b extend, which are also part of the fluid connection 33a, 33b. The channels 34a, 34b are separated from one another in a fluid-tight manner. The fluid-tight separation can be achieved in that the first housing part 44a has a groove 45 and the second housing part 44b has a spring 46 which engages in the groove 45 .

In the embodiment according to 4 and 9 a separating element 36 with a border 37 is introduced between the housing parts 44a, 44b, which separates the fluid chambers 43a, 43b in a fluid-tight manner. The separating element 36 extends parallel to a first flow plane S ₁ , in which the first fluid chamber 43a extends, and a second flow plane S ₂ , in which the second fluid chamber 43b extends, and has recesses 38a, 38b, 38c on its border 37 , 38d, 38e, 38f. When the separating element 36 is inserted between the housing parts 44a, 44b, the border 37 with the recesses 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f causes the fluid chambers 43a, 43b only to the channels 34a, 34b and only to the air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d have a fluid-conducting connection, on which the recesses 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d, 38e, 38f are arranged. Otherwise, the separating element 36 causes a fluid-tight separation of the fluid chambers 43a, 43b from one another.

How in particular 12 As can be seen, the pump 50 has air connections 51a, 51b, which are connected to the pump connections 31a, 31b, and a power connection 52. In 12 1 shows an embodiment of the pump 50 in which the air connections 51a, 51b are arranged on opposite sides of the pump 50 so that they lie on a coupling axis. The coupling axis runs in or near the center of gravity of the pump 50. The pump 50 also has a number of operating buttons, by means of which the operation or operating mode of the pump 50 can be influenced in particular. For example, the control knobs are used to turn the pump 50 on or off or to set the intensity or order of pressurization. The control buttons can be designed as a slider, but also have a different ergonomic design.

The fluid can be conveyed into the connection device 30 by connecting the pump connections 31a, 31b to the air connections 51a, 51b of the pump 50 . The connection device 30 directs the fluid through the pump connections 31a, 31b, the channels 34a, 34b, the fluid chambers 43a, 43b and the air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d in the functional unit 10. Because the fluid connections 33a, 33b in the housing 35 run, they are covered by the housing 35 and not visible from the outside. This enables a compact design, in which no loose lines or hoses are routed.

Like those in particular 6 and 11 show, the connection device 30 is integrated into the functional unit 10 . A pump connection area 39, which has the pump connections 31a, 31b, protrudes at least partially from the functional unit 10, so that the pump connections 31a, 31b are accessible from outside the functional unit 10. An air chamber connection area 40, which has the air chamber connections 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, is arranged in the functional unit 10, in particular between the layers 11, 12. For this purpose, the second layer 12 can have an opening 13 through which the connecting device 30 extends. Furthermore, the connection device 30 has a holding device 47 which extends transversely to the channels 34a, 34b in order to hold the connection device 30 at the opening 13, such as in particular 6 reveals.

The housing 35 has assembly openings 42 in the air chamber connection area 40 for fastening the air chamber connection area 40 to the functional unit 10 . In particular, the assembly openings 42 can be used to sew the air chamber connection area 40 to the functional unit 10 .

Since the connection device 30 can consequently be permanently connected to the functional unit 10, it can, in particular 3 can be seen, have a closure device 41 preferably made of silicone to seal the pump connections 31a, 31b before washing or cleaning the functional unit 10 tightly. The closure device 41 has two plugs corresponding to the number of pump connections 31a, 31b, so that one pump connection 31a, 31b can be closed with each plug. The plugs are attached to an elastically deformable web, rod or strand so that they can be inserted into the respective pump connection 31a, 31b in order to seal it tightly.

A method for operating the fitness, beauty or wellness device, which involves a fluid-conducting connection of the pump 50, which has a first air connection 51a and a second air connection 51b, to the connection device 30, which has the first pump connection 31a and the second pump connection 31b, includes, let the 11 and 12 recognize. As described above, the pump connections 31a, 31b can be deflected relative to one another against a restoring force. For connection, the first air connection 51a is connected to the first pump connection 31a. Before or after this, the first pump connection 31a is moved away from the second pump connection 31b or the second pump connection 31b from the first pump connection 31a by means of a force acting on the first pump connection 31a or the second pump connection 31b, in particular deflected. This increases the distance between the pump ports 31a, 31b, and the pump 50 can be moved between them. Thereafter, the second air port 51b is connected to the second pump port 31b. Finally, the first pump connection 31a or the second pump connection 31b is released.

- Third embodiment of the connection device for a fitness, beauty or wellness device -

In the Figures 13 to 31 a third embodiment of the connection device 100 for a fitness, beauty or wellness device is shown. The connection device 100, which is designed as a pair of pants functional unit 10 according to 1 as well as in a functional unit 10 designed as a waist belt according to FIG 2 or functional unit 200 according to FIG 25 can be used, includes a carrier plate 150, which is approximately at the 25 Functional unit 200 shown can be fastened or is part of functional unit 200. The connection device 100 also includes a first pump connection 110 and a second pump connection 120, which are arranged at a predetermined distance d from one another on the carrier plate 150. The first pump connection 110 and the second pump connection 120 are designed, the connection device 100 with a particular in the Figures 22 to 24 to connect pump 300 shown in fluid communication. The connection device 100 comprises a first air chamber connection 130 which is connected to the first pump connection 110 and a second air chamber connection 140 which is connected to the second pump connection 120 . The first air chamber connection 130 and the second air chamber connection 140 are designed to connect the connection device 100 to the functional unit 200 in a fluid-conducting manner.

Connection device 100 is characterized in that the first pump connection 110 and/or the second pump connection 120 can be moved from a normal position I into a connection position II against the action of a restoring force, so that a force acting on the first pump connection 110 and/or the second pump connection 120, the distance d, d` between the pump connections 110, 120 can be changed and the pump 300 can thus be introduced between the pump connections 110, 120 and then connected to the pump connections 110, 120, such as in particular the Figures 27 to 29 make known. The pump 300 is through the Connection to the pump connections 110, 120 permanently held on the connection device 100.

The first pump port 110 and / or the second pump port 120 have a particular in the 16 and 17 illustrated actuating aid 111, 121, by means of which a force can be exerted in order to move the first pump connection 110 and/or the second pump connection 120 from the normal position I into the connection position II. The actuating aid 111, 121 can have a grip area 112, 122 and a holding area 113, 123 adjoining the grip area 112, 122. The actuation aid 111, 121 makes it easier to increase or decrease the distance d, d' between the pump connections 110, 120. The gripping area 112, 122 can have flat gripping surfaces which can be gripped and held by a thumb and a forefinger, for example. The holding area 113, 123 can be designed as a nub, for example, and consequently enables the pump connections 110, 120 to be pulled off the pump 300 more easily.

The pump connections 110, 120 each have an opening 114, 124 which defines a flow axis 115, 125. The pump ports 110, 120 are configured such that their respective ports 114, 124 face each other and the flow axes 115, 125 of the ports 115, 125 are substantially coaxial. Like those in particular 16 and 17 indicate that the connection device 100 has at least one closure device 160 for closing the pump connections 110, 120. The closure device 160, such as in particular Figures 13 and 14 be designed as a drop-shaped plug 161 in particular, which is arranged on the carrier plate 150 or on the pump connections 110, 120 by means of a flexible web, rod or strand 162. Alternatively, the closure device 160 with a conventional Plug 161 may be provided, in particular the Figures 16 and 17 make known. The closure device 160 can consist of an elastically deformable material, in particular silicone.

The air chamber connections 130, 140 each have an opening 131, 141 which defines a flow axis 132, 142. The flow axes 132, 142 of the openings 131, 141 of the air chamber connections 130, 140 and the flow axes 115, 125 of the openings 115, 125 of the pump connections 110, 120 enclose an angle that can be between 10° and 170° and is approx is 90°. The air chamber connections 130, 140 are designed in such a way that the flow axes 132, 142 of the openings 131, 141 run essentially parallel.

The connection device 100 has, in particular 13 can be seen, two connectors 170 which are each connected to one of the air chamber ports 130,140. The connecting piece 170 is non-positively inserted into the opening 131, 141 of the air chamber connections 130, 140 and is designed in the form of an angle, essentially in the form of a right angle.

Like those in particular 13 and 18 to 21 indicate that the connection device 100 has a distributor 180, which can consist entirely or at least partially of an elastically deformable material, in particular silicone, and is connected to the air chamber connections 130, 140 in a fluid-conducting manner. In this case, the distributor 180 is expediently connected to the connecting piece 170 . The distributor 180 is fluidly connected via hoses 171, 172 to the air chamber connections 130, 140, ie to the connecting piece 170. The carrier plate 150 has recesses 151, 152 which serve to guide and/or fix the hoses 171, 172.

Like those in particular 19 and 20 as can be seen, the distributor 180 comprises a first inlet connector 181 which is in fluid communication with the first air chamber connection 130, a second inlet connector 182 which is in fluid communication with the second air chamber connection 140, two first outlet connectors 183, 184 which are connected to a first air chamber 210 of the functional unit 200 can be connected in a fluid-conducting manner, and two second outlet nozzles 185, 186, which can be connected in a fluid-conducting manner to a second air chamber 220 of the functional unit 200.

The first outlet sockets 183, 184 are connected to the first inlet socket 181 by means of two first connection channels 187, 188, and the second outlet sockets 185, 186 are connected to the second inlet socket 182 by means of two second connection channels 189, 190. The distributor 180 has an in 19 upper part 191 shown and an in 20 shown base 192, in which the connecting channels 189, 190 are formed. The upper part 191 defines a first flow plane S ₁ and the lower part 192 defines a second flow plane S ₂ . The 19 and 20 given that one of the first connecting channels 187 is interrupted in the first flow plane S ₁ and designed to be continuous in the second flow plane S ₂ , whereas one of the second connecting channels 189 is interrupted in the second flow plane S ₂ and designed to be continuous in the first flow plane S ₁ is.

The particular in the Figures 27 to 31 Functional unit 200 shown comprises two air chambers 210, 220, which are connected to the air chamber connections 130, 140 of the connection device 100 in a fluid-conducting manner. The carrier plate 150 of the connecting device 100 can be fastened to the functional unit 200 or is part of the functional unit 200. The functional unit 200 can in particular be designed as a shirt or trousers or as a cuff, preferably as a waist belt or as an upper arm cuff. Depending on the application, the functional unit 200 made of a textile material, in particular is multi-layered, or by a cover that is preferably double-walled and/or at least partially flexible and/or water-impermeable. The carrier plate 150 and/or the distributor 180 of the connecting device 100 can be attached to the textile material or to the cover.

Like those in particular Figures 22 to 24 indicate that pump 300 comprises a first pressure port 310 for connection to first pump port 110 of connection device 100 and a second pressure port 320 for connection to second pump port 120 of connection device 100. Pressure ports 310, 320 each have an opening 311, 321 on, which defines a flow axis 312, 322. The pressure ports 310, 320 are arranged in such a way that the openings 311, 321 face away from one another. The pump 300 is permanently held on the connection device 100 by the pressure nozzles 310, 320 connected to the pump connections 110, 120. The flow axes 312, 322 of the openings 311, 321 are essentially coaxial. The pump 300 has a center of gravity S, with the flow axes 312, 322 of the openings 311, 321 preferably running through the center of gravity S or at least in the vicinity of the center of gravity S.

How in particular 22 As can be seen, the pump 300 includes a housing 330 having a front 331, a back 332, a top 333, a middle 334 and a bottom 335 portion. The pressure ports 310, 320 are arranged in the central area 334. The ratio of the upper area 333 to the middle area 334 to the lower area 335 can be between 1 to 1/8:1 to 1/8:1 to 1/8 and in the present case is approximately 1:1:1 The housing 330, which has a substantially triangular shape, has two depressions 313, 323 on the rear side 331, in which the first pressure connection 310 and the second pressure connection 320 are arranged. A substantially circular depression 340 at The front side 331 of the housing 330 is bordered by a substantially ring-shaped wall 341, which is preferably designed to be illuminating.

The pump 300 further includes an actuation switch 350 for turning the pump 300 on and off, an actuation switch 360 for setting the power level of the pump 300 and an actuation switch 370 for setting the operating mode of the pump 300, which are arranged in the upper area 333 of the housing 330 . The pump also includes indicator lights 351, 361, 371, which are used to indicate the position of the operating switches 350, 360, 370. The pump 300 can be operated by an accumulator that can be charged in particular in a wireless manner.

The fitness, beauty or wellness device according to the invention comprises the connection device 100, the functional unit 200 and the pump 300. The carrier plate 150 is attached to the functional unit 200 or is part of the functional unit 200. The functional unit 200 is fluidly conductive through the air chamber connections 111, 121 with the Connection device 100 connected. The pump 300 is connected to the connection device 100 in a fluid-conducting manner through the pump connections 110, 120 and is thereby permanently held on the connection device 100 at the same time.

1. i) der erste Pumpenanschluss 110 und/oder der zweite Pumpenanschluss 120 werden entgegen der Wirkung einer Rückstellkraft von einer Normalstellung I in eine Anschlussstellung II bewegt, so dass mittels einer Kraftwirkung auf den ersten Pumpenanschluss 110 und/oder den zweiten Pumpenanschluss 120 der Abstand d, d` zwischen den Pumpenanschlüssen 110, 120 verändert werden kann;
2. ii) die Pumpe 300 wird zwischen die Pumpenanschlüsse 110, 120 eingebracht und sodann mit den Pumpenanschlüssen 110, 120 derart verbunden, dass die Pumpe 300 durch die Verbindung mit den Pumpenanschlüssen 110, 120 dauerhaft an der Anschlusseinrichtung 100 und damit an der Funktionseinheit 200 gehalten wird.

The method for operating the fitness, beauty or wellness device according to the invention comprises the following steps:

1. i) the first pump connection 110 and/or the second pump connection 120 are moved from a normal position I into a connection position II against the action of a restoring force, so that by means of a force acting on the first pump connection 110 and/or the second pump connection 120, the distance d, d` can be varied between pump ports 110, 120;
2. ii) the pump 300 is inserted between the pump ports 110, 120 and then connected to the pump ports 110, 120 such that that the pump 300 is permanently held on the connection device 100 and thus on the functional unit 200 through the connection to the pump connections 110, 120.

The previously described embodiments of a fitness, beauty or wellness device have in common that they ensure a compact design and comfortable and practical handling combined with an attractive appearance. <b>Reference List</b> 10 functional unit 38c recess 11 Position 38d recess 12 Position 38e recess 13 opening 38f recess 15 closure area 39 pump connection area 16 recording area 40 air chamber connection area 17 functional device 18a air chamber 41 locking device 18b air chamber 42 mounting hole 20a slot 43a fluid chamber 20b slot 43b fluid chamber 44a housing part 30 connection device 44b housing part 31a pump connection 45 groove 31b pump connection 46 Feather 32a air chamber connection 47 holding device 32b air chamber connection 48a opening 32c air chamber connection 48b opening 32d air chamber connection 33a fluid connection 50 pump 33b fluid connection 51a air connection 34a channel 51b air connection 34b channel 52 power connection 35 Housing 36 separator 100 connection device 37 border 110 first pump connection 38a recess 111 operating aid 38b recess 112 grip area 113 holding area 188 connecting channel 114 opening 189 connecting channel 115 flow axis 190 connecting channel 120 second pump connection 191 top 121 operating aid 192 lower part 122 grip area 123 holding area 200 functional unit 124 opening 210 first air chamber 125 flow axis 220 second air chamber 130 first air chamber connection 131 opening 300 pump 132 flow axis 310 first pressure port 140 second air chamber connection 311 opening 141 opening 312 flow axis 142 flow axis 313 deepening 150 backing plate 320 second pressure port 151 recess 321 opening 152 recess 322 flow axis 160 locking device 323 deepening 161 plug 330 Housing 162 flexible rod or strand 331 front 170 connector 332 back 171 Hose 333 upper area 172 Hose 334 middle area 180 distributor 335 lower area 181 first entry port 340 deepening 182 second inlet port 341 wall 183 first outlet 350 actuation switch 184 first outlet 351 indicator light 185 second outlet port 360 actuation switch 186 second outlet port 361 indicator light 187 connecting channel 370 actuation switch 371 indicator light A axis E direction of extension p ₁ flow plane S ₂ flow plane i.e Distance d' changed distance S main emphasis I normal position II connection position a angle

Claims (16)

1. Connecting device (100) for a fitness, beauty or wellness device, comprising:

   a carrier plate (150), which can be fastened to a functional unit (200) worn on a body of a person using the fitness, beauty or wellness device, or which is part of the functional unit (200);

   a first pump port (110) and a second pump port (120), which are arranged at a predetermined distance (d) from one another on the carrier plate (150),

   wherein the first pump port (110) and the second pump port (120) are configured to connect the connecting device (100) to a pump (300) in a fluid-conducting manner;

   a first air chamber port (130) connected to the first pump port (110) and a second air chamber port (140) connected to the second pump port (120),

   wherein the first air chamber port (130) and the second air chamber port (140) are configured to connected the connection device (100) to the functional unit (200) in a fluid-conducting manner;

   characterised in that the first pump port (110) and/or the second pump port (120) can be moved from a normal position (I) into a connection position (II) against the effect of a restoring force so that by means of a force acting on the first pump port (110) and/or the second pump port (120), the distance (d, d') between the pump ports (110, 120) can be changed and the pump (300) is thus introduced between the pump ports (110, 120) and then connected to the pump ports (110, 120);

   wherein the pump (300) can be permanently held on the connection device (100) by the connection to the pump ports (110, 120).
2. Connection device (100) according to claim 1, characterised in that the first pump port (110) and/or the second pump port (120) have an actuating aid (111, 121) by means of which a force can be exerted in order to close the first pump port ( 110) and/or to move the second pump port (120) from the normal position (I) to the connection position (II);

   wherein preferably the actuating aid (111, 121) has a gripping region (112, 122) and a holding region (113,123) adjoining the gripping region (112, 122);

   wherein further preferably the actuating aid (111, 121) allows to increase or decrease the distance (d, d').
3. Connection device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the first pump port (110) and the second pump port (120) each having an opening (114, 124) which define a flow axis (115, 125);

   wherein preferably the first pump port (110) and the second pump port (120) are configured such that the openings (114, 124) face each other;

   wherein further preferably the flow axis (115, 125) of the openings (115, 125) are substantially coaxial.
4. Connection device (100) according to claim 3, characterised by at least one closure device (160) for closing the pump ports (110, 120);

   wherein preferably the closure device (160) is in the form of a drop-shaped plug (161), which is preferably attached to the support plate (150) and/or to the first pump port (110) and/or to the second pump port (120) by means of a flexible rod or strand (162);

   wherein further preferably the closure device (160) is made of an elastically deformable material, in particular silicone.
5. Connection device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the first air chamber port (130) and the second air chamber port (140) each have an opening (131, 141) which defines a flow axis (132, 142);

   wherein preferably the flow axis (132, 142) of the openings (131, 141) of the air chamber ports (130, 140) and the flow axis (115,125) of the openings of the pump ports (110, 120) have an angle (α), which is preferably between 10° and 170°, more preferably between 50° and 130°, more preferably between 80° and 100°, and more preferably about 90°;

   wherein further preferably the first air chamber port (130) and the second air chamber port (140) are designed in such a way that the flow axis (132, 142) of the openings (131, 141) are essentially parallel.
6. Connection device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised by at least one connector (170) which is connected to the first air chamber connection (130) and/or to the second air chamber connection (140);

   wherein preferably the connector (170) being inserted in a non-positive manner into the opening (131, 141) of the first air chamber port (130) and/or the second air chamber port (140);

   wherein further preferably the connector (170) is designed in the form of an angle, in particular in the form of a right angle.
7. Connection device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterised by a distributor (180) which is connected in fluid-conducting manner to the first air chamber port (130) and/or to the second air chamber port (140);

   wherein preferably the distributor (180) is connected to the connector (170);

   wherein further preferably the distributor (180) is connected via at least one hose (171, 172) to the first air chamber port (130) and/or to the second air chamber port (140) in a fluid-conducting manner, in particular to the connector (170);

   wherein preferably the carrier plate (150) has at least one recess (151, 152) for guiding and/or fixing the hose (171, 172);

   wherein further preferably the distributor (180) comprises:

   a first inlet connection (181) which is connected to the first air chamber port (130) in a fluid-conducting manner,

   a second inlet connection (182) which connected to the second air chamber port (140) in a fluid-conducting manner,

   at least one first outlet connection (183, 184) which can be connected to a first air chamber (210) of the functional unit (200) in a fluid-conducting manner, and

   at least one second outlet connection (185, 186), which can be connected to a second air chamber (220) of the functional unit (200) in a fluid-conducting manner;

   wherein preferably the distributor (180) is made entirely or at least partially of an elastically deformable material, in particular silicone;

   wherein further preferably the distributor (180) has at least two first outlet connections (183, 184) and at least two second outlet connections (185, 186);

   wherein the first outlet connections (183, 184) are connected to the first inlet connection (181) by means of two first connecting channels (187, 188);

   wherein the second outlet connections (185, 186) being connected to the second inlet connection (182) by means of two second connecting channels (189, 190);

   wherein further preferably the distributor (180) has an upper part (191) and a lower part (192) in which the connecting channels (189, 190) are formed;

   wherein the upper part (191) defines a first flow plane (S₁) and the lower part (192) defines a second flow plane (S₂);

   wherein one of the first connecting channels (187) is interrupted in the first flow plane (S₁) and is continuous in the second flow plane (S₂), and

   wherein one of the second connecting channels (189) is interrupted in the second flow plane (S₂) and in the first flow plane (S₁) is designed continuous.
8. Connection device (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the pump ports (110, 120) consist of an elastically deformable or flexible material, in particular rubber or a rubber-like plastic, which allows the distance (d, d') between the pump ports (110, 120) to be reversibly changed.
9. Pump (300) for a fitness, beauty or wellness device wearable on the body of a human, comprising:

   a connection device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8;

   a first pressure port (310) for connection to the first pump port (110) of the connection device (100) and

   a second pressure port (320) for connection to the second pump port (120) of the connection device (100);

   wherein the first pressure port (310) and the second pressure port (320) each have an opening (311, 321) which defines a flow axis (312, 322);

   wherein the first pressure port (310) and the second pressure port (320) are arranged such that the openings (311, 321) face away from each other; and

   wherein the pump (300) is held permanently on the connection device (100) by the pressure port (310, 320) connected to the pump ports (110, 120).
10. Pump (300) according to claim 9, characterised in that the flow axis (312, 322) of the openings (311, 321) are substantially coaxial;
    wherein the pump (300) has a center of gravity (S) and the flow axis (312, 322) of the openings (311, 321) preferably run through the center of gravity (S) or at least in the vicinity of the center of gravity (S).
11. Pump (300) according to claim 9 or 10, characterised by a housing (330) having a front (331), a rear (332), an upper region (333), a middle region (334) and a lower region ( 335);

    wherein preferably the first pressure port (310) and/or the second pressure port (320) being arranged in the central region (334) and

    wherein further preferably the ratio of the upper region (333) to the middle region (334) to the lower region (335) is preferably between (1 to 1/8) : (1 to 1/8) : (1 to 1/8), preferably 1 : 1 : 1 or 3/8 : 2/8 : 3/8 or 2/8 : 2/8 : 4/8;

    wherein further preferably the housing (330) has at least one depression (313, 323) on the rear, in which the first pressure port (310) and/or the second pressure port (320) are arranged.
12. Pump (300) according to claim 11, characterised in that the housing (330) has a substantially triangular shape;

    wherein preferably a substantially circular recess (340) is arranged on the front (331) of the housing (330);

    wherein further preferably the recess (340) is bordered by a substantially annular wall (341);

    wherein further preferably the wall (341) is designed to be illuminating.
13. Pump (300) according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterised by

    an actuating switch (350) for switching the pump (300) on and off, which is preferably arranged in the upper region (333) of the housing (330); and/or

    an actuator switch (360) for setting the power level of the pump (300), which is preferably arranged in the upper region (333) of the housing (330); and/or

    an actuating switch (370) for setting the operating mode of the pump (300), which is preferably arranged in the upper region (333) of the housing (330);

    preferably characterised by at least one control lamp (351, 361, 371) for displaying the position of the actuating switch (350, 360, 370); and

    further preferably characterised by an accumulator that can be charged in particular wirelessly.
14. Fitness, beauty or wellness device, characterised by

    a pump (300) according to any one of claims 9 to 13; and

    a functional unit (200), which is worn during use on the body of a person using the fitness, beauty or wellness device, and which comprises at least one air chamber (210, 220) which is connected to the first air chamber port (130) and/or to the second air chamber port (140) of the connection device (100) in a fluid-conducting manner;

    wherein the carrier plate (150) is attached to the functional unit (200) or is a component of the functional unit (200); and

    wherein the pump (300) is connected to the connection device (100) in a fluid-conducting manner by means of the pump ports (110, 120) and is at the same time held permanently on the connection device (100) as a result.
15. Fitness, beauty or wellness device according to claim 14, characterised by

    the design of the functional unit (200) as a shirt or as a trouser (201) or as a cuff, preferably as a waist belt (202) or as an upper arm cuff; and/or

    by being made of a textile material which is, in particular, multilayered, or by a cover which is preferably double-walled and/or at least in sections flexible and/or impermeable to water;

    wherein preferably the carrier plate (150) and/or the distributor (180) of the connection device (100) are attached to the textile material or to the cover.
16. Method for operating a fitness, beauty or wellness device according to claim 14 or 15, comprising the following steps:

    (i) the first pump port (110) and/or the second pump port (120) are moved from a normal position (I) into a connection position (II) against the effect of a restoring force, so that by means of a force acting on the first pump port (110 ) and/or the second pump port (120), the distance (d, d') between the pump ports (110, 120) can be changed;

    (ii) the pump (300) is introduced between the pump ports (110, 120) and then connected to the pump ports (110, 120) in such a way that the pump (300) is connected to the pump ports (110, 120) is permanently held on the connection device (100) and thus on the functional unit (200).

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