GB2236678A

GB2236678A - Therapeutic massage cushion

Info

Publication number: GB2236678A
Application number: GB8917406A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Douglas Bruce Lilley
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1989-07-29
Filing date: 1989-07-29
Publication date: 1991-04-17
Also published as: GB8917406D0

Abstract

The invention is basically a motor 6 with an eccentric weight 7 fitted, mounted within moulded parallel plates 10, 20, activated by mains re-chargeable battery or batteries 8. Also mains electricity or mains through a transformer via micro-switch operated when pressure is applied by the parallel plates, encased within a fabric cover embodied in flame retardent foam rubber. The eccentric device can be filled to all types of passenger vehicle including aircraft. Heat element can also be supplied on all voltages. <IMAGE>

Description

"Therapeutic Aid" This invention relates to a therapeutic aid and more specifically to a therapeutic aid in the form of a vibrating cushion.

The use of massage in the treatment of ailments such as muscle and back pains is well known, as is the use of manipulation techniques in the treatment of arthritis.

However, these treatments are not easily available to everyone, whether the patient is in constant pain from arthritis or suffers form the occasional sporting injury.

The introduction of a therapeutic aid in the form of a vibrating cushion which can be used easily by a patient in his or her own home to massage and provide stimulus to a painful part of the body would constitute a considerable advantage, to such patients.

According to the present invention there is provided a therapeutic aid in the form of a vibrating cushion comprising a vibration actuator and a resilient deformable padding which are enclosed in a cover material, the vibration actuator comprising a motor fitted with an eccentric weight, a power source, and a pressure activated switch.

Activation of the motor results in the spinning of the eccentric weight which produces vibrations.

Preferably, the vibration actuator is housed in a container comprising two substantially parallel plates which are connected at one end by a cross member.

Preferably, the pressure activated switch is in the form of a pressure pad or a microswitch.

Preferably, the substantially parallel plates can flex towards each other when acted upon by an external force, the relative motion of the plates resulting in one of the plates bearing down on and thus activating the microswitch.

Preferably, the cushion comprises a means of access to the vibration actuator.

Preferably, the means of access is a slit opening in the cushion cover which is repeatably sealable via a zip fastener or a touch and close fastener such as Velcro (TM) or other suitable fastener.

Preferably, the power source is in the form of one or more batteries, which can be replaced or removed to be recharged.

Alternatively, the cushion may comprise a covered low voltage socket and electrical connections to the batteries to enable recharging of the batteries, without their removal from the cushion.

Alternatively, the cushion may comprise a covered low voltage socket, electrical connections and a low voltage transformer enabling the vibration actuator to be powered directly form an external electrical supply such as a car's electricity supply.

In addition, the cushion may comprise a small low voltage heater element, warming the cushion slightly.

Preferably, the heater element will be powered by the same electrical source as the motor.

From another aspect the present invention provides a vibration actuator comprising a motor, fitted with an eccentric weight, a power source and a pressure activated switch.

Preferably, the substantially parallel plates can flex towards each other when acted upon by an external force, the relative motion of the plates resulting in one plate bearing down on and thus activating the microswitch.

Preferably the power source is in the form of one or more batteries, which can be replaced or removed to be recharged.

Alternatively, the vibration actuator may comprise a covered low voltage socket, electrical connections and a low voltage transformer enabling the vibration actuator to be powered directly from an external electrical supply such as a car's electrical supply.

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a vibration actuator of a therapeutic aid in accordance with the present invention; and Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a vibrating cushion forming a therapeutic aid in accordance with the present invention.

Referring to the drawings Fig. 2 illustrates a vibrating cushion 1 comprising a vibration actuator 2 surrounded by a resilient deformable material, such as foam rubber 3, and encased in a cover 4.

There is an opening 5 in the cushion cover 4 enabling access to the vibration actuator 2.

Fig. 1 illustrates a vibration actuator 2 comprising a motor 6 fitted with an eccentric weight 7, a power source in the form of two batteries 8, and a pressure activated switch in the form of a micro switch 9.

The vibration actuator 2 is housed in a container formed by two substantially parallel rectangular perspex plates 10 and 20 which are connected at one end by a wooden bar 11.

External force on the plates 10 and 20 cause the plates to flex inwardly, towards each other. Thus the movement of the plates causes the top plate 20 to bear down on the microswitch 9 thus activating the vibration actuator 2.

In use, someone holding or lying on the cushion 1 will provide a sufficient force to cause the top plate 20 to bear down on the microswitch 9 and thus activate the vibration actuator 2.

The vibrations emanating from the actuator 2, due to the motion of the eccentric weight 7, are transmitted through the foam rubber 3 and into the body of the user, thus massaging and stimulating the body area in contact with the cushion 1.

Additionally, a heater element (not shown) may be incorporated in the cushion 1 which warms it and thus provides heat, in addition to massage, for the user; this is particularly useful in the treatment of muscle strains.

Modifications and improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

The therapeutic massage cushions benefits are the vibrating effects to alleviate conditions op discomfort affecting areas of the body in the healthy for relaxation and for the aged and sick for therapy and to help relieve pain. Also as a stimulant for weariness in the case of drivers/passengers in motor vehicles. Can be used for any physical discomfort as can be shaped to fit any region of the body. Ideal for post-operative therapy when fitted to vehicles can be activated by manual or automatic timer control to keep the driver alert by vibration/noise factor as a safety precaution fitted for the passenger is mainly therapeutic/ relaxation comfort. Additional to this the cushion can be manufactured with a built-in thermostatically heater unit, working off mains or battery voltages (also by a low voltage transformer).