GB2570897A

GB2570897A - Massage therapy apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2570897A
Application number: GB1802053.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Christopher Jackson Simon
Original assignee: Jackson Design Ltd
Current assignee: Jackson Design Ltd
Priority date: 2018-02-08
Filing date: 2018-02-08
Publication date: 2019-08-14
Also published as: GB201802053D0; WO2019155210A2; WO2019155210A3

Abstract

An apparatus for massage therapy 10 with a housing 12 having a first 14 and second 16 end; a drive assembly coupled to the housing 12; a massage member 24,25,26 in communication with the drive assembly which protrudes from the first end of the housing and a static mass coupled to the housing. The static mass 34 is located near to the (preferably exterior) first end of the housing and is arranged in use to be immovable with respect to the housing. The static mass is included to reduce transmission of vibrations from the massage member to the housing thus improving comfort when the operator holds the second end of the housing. The static mass and the apparatus may have a relative weight ratio between 1:10 and 1:2, the static mass is also preferably located between the drive assembly and the first end of the housing. The drive assembly 17 may comprise a drive shaft and a motor 18. The massage member may comprise a crankshaft and a crankpin 26 positioned eccentrically to the crankshaft 24. The massage member is preferably reversibly detachable from the drive assembly and an interchangeable therapy member may be reversibly detachable from the massage member.

Description

Massage therapy apparatus

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to massage therapy devices, in particular to hand-held massage therapy devices.

Background to the Invention

Massage therapy can include whole body or localised vibration therapy.

During whole-body vibration therapy, a recipient would typically stand, sit, or lay on a machine supported by a vibrating platform.

During localized vibration therapy, a therapist typically places a hand-held vibrating device on certain parts of the body.

The direction and intensity of vibrations may determine how well vibration therapy works. Some machines produce only vertical vibrations, providing a percussive or Shiatsu-type therapy. There are many percussive and Shiatsu type massagers already. Percussive type massagers generally act normal to the surface of the tissue, depressing and releasing the surface. Other forms of vibrations therapy device produce vibrations that occur laterally.

Localised vibration therapy devices typically transmit a degree of vibration throughout the body of the device to the hand of a therapist holding the device. A force is typically required to be applied by the therapist to the device in order to maximise therapeutic efficacy. Continuous vibratory action against the hand of the therapist, which is often combined with a requirement for continuous pressure to be applied to the device by the therapist, can cause an increased risk of injury to the therapist. Such injuries can include Vibration White Finger, Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) and Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).

Therapists often apply considerable pressure to a vibration therapy device to maximise the therapeutic effect. The incidence of injury to the therapist’s hand can be exacerbated in devices requiring more pressure to be applied during operation of the device.

Examples of current such devices include the Niagara Therapy Cyclo-Therapy Handheld massager, another is the Rapid Release Therapy (RRT) Pro2.

Many current portable devices for delivering topical, medically effective vibration therapy have attempted to alleviate the effects of continuous vibration on the user. Such devices typically use an electric motor having eccentric weights, causing some or all of the body of the delivery device to vibrate. This is then held in the hand and applied to the body. Rotating weights are intended to provide a counterweight and/or flywheel effect to stabilise the body of the device during operation. Dynamic counterbalancing is the most common method for balancing rotational machinery. Examples of vibration therapy devices incorporating such technology can be found in, for example, WO 2016/123343 A1, WO 2009/049185 A1, and include the G5 GBM by General Physiotherapy Inc.

Solutions in other fields, such as vibrational hand-drilling, have been to attach a handle to a device with the intention of isolating vibratory forces of the rotational or vibratory device from the user. These solutions have been found to be suboptimal in reducing the vibratory forces transmitted to a user. The best that can be achieved in these iterations is a degree of isolation, but there is a trade-off, in that it if the handle connection is sufficiently rigid to allow precise manipulation of the application surface, it cannot provide much isolation.

It is therefore desirable to provide an apparatus providing effective hand-held localised massage therapy while minimising effort from a therapist and reducing the risk of injury through repetitive strain.

Summary of the invention

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for massage therapy comprising, a housing comprising a first end and a second end; a drive assembly coupled to the housing; a massage member in communication with the drive assembly, the massage member arranged to protrude from the first end of the housing; and a static mass coupled to the housing; wherein the static mass is proximate the first end of the housing and wherein, in use, the static mass is arranged to be immovable with respect to the housing.

The present invention preferably provides an apparatus for massage therapy having a housing comprising a drive assembly arranged to drive a massage member. Preferably the drive assembly causes oscillation of the massage member through rotation of a drive shaft. In embodiments wherein oscillation of the massage member is provided by rotation of a drive shaft, shear forces may be generated by the oscillating massage member. Preferably the static mass proximate the first end of the apparatus, and therefore preferably proximate the massage member, provides inertia, counteracting the shear forces, and reducing the effect of said forces on the housing of the apparatus. In the context of the present invention, the term “static mass” refers to an inert mass which follows D’Alembert’s principle.

D’Alembert’s principle might be considered a reworking of Newton’s second law, Specifically it introduces a fictitious force, ‘-ma’ so that the equation of Newton’s second law (F - ma) becomes F-ma = 0. If F is the force applied by the soft tissue of a recipient of the apparatus according to the present invention, in reaction to the movement of the massage member, and ‘rri is the mass of the inert static mass, then as ‘rri increases, ‘a’ (the acceleration) reduces. So there is less acceleration acting on a larger mass (m) and hence the static mass moves a shorter distance following a given force exerted by the massage member, before the force F (which in a preferable embodiment is a vibratory force) is reversed and moves the inert mass back to the other extreme of movement, which in a preferable embodiment describes a generally circular path, having a much smaller radius than that described by the massage member. Considering the problem observed along the length of the device, it is important that the inert mass is as near as possible along the length of the device to the massage member, as in a preferable embodiment a rotating torque is applied to the centre of mass of the whole device by the force F. The inert static mass effectively reduces the force F, thus the torque is very much reduced. This principle can be seen to be very effective in limiting vibration in the housing of an apparatus for massage therapy according to the present invention, and also may be applicable to rotary and linear vibratory and oscillatory devices in general.

The exact amount of movement of the static mass of the apparatus (wherein in preferable embodiments the movement is by vibration), is dependent upon the stiffness of the tissue being treated, and reduces greatly as a speed of the drive assembly increases.

The static mass is immovable with respect to the housing during operation of the device, the static mass having a weight relative to the weight of the apparatus.

Preferably the housing is arranged to be held by a user. More preferably the housing is arranged to be held proximate the second end of the housing. In preferable embodiments, the housing is arranged to be held single-handed. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the housing is arranged to be held proximate the first end of the housing. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the housing is arranged to be held with two hands.

A hand held apparatus for massage therapy is preferably provided, the housing of which, through reacting with the lateral forces of a massage member against what is preferably an integral and inert static mass does not significantly vibrate, therefore being safer for the therapist to use for extended periods. This device has the further advantage of allowing not only speed control and changing of the tip, but also changing of the vibration displacement by the user as the means of generating displacement is a part of the user-changeable tip.

In embodiments wherein the apparatus of the present invention is arranged to be held by a user, the static mass of the present invention preferably reduces the effect of the vibratory forces on the held portion of the device.

Preferably the drive assembly comprises a motor, and a drive shaft arranged to be driven by the motor; and wherein in the drive shaft is arranged to drive the massage member. More preferably the massage member comprises a crankshaft having a longitudinal axis, the crankshaft comprising a first engagement portion arranged to engage with the drive shaft, and a second operative portion comprising a crankpin, the crankpin being positioned eccentric to the longitudinal axis of the crankshaft. Still more preferably the crankpin comprises at least one bearing. Still more preferably the bearing is a ball bearing. Preferably the crankpin is eccentric to the longitudinal axis of the crankshaft by a distance, the distance being one selected from the range: 0.05 mm to 15 mm.

An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the massage member is reversibly detachable from the drive assembly.

In accordance with preferable embodiments, the massage member is detachable from the drive assembly, and the same massage member, or an alternative massage member may be attached to the drive assembly. Preferably therefore the massage member may be changed to vary or adjust the amplitude of massage therapy provided.

Preferably at least a portion of the drive assembly is located inside the housing.

Preferably the static mass is located substantially exterior to the housing. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein at least part of the static mass is located inside the housing. Embodiments will be appreciated wherein the housing is arranged to encase the static mass.

Preferably the static mass is coupled to the housing by way of one selected from the range: a screw thread; a push fit; a clamp; a fixing member. Fixing member, for the purpose of coupling the static mass to the housing as described, can be considered any appropriate material arranged to affix the static mass to the housing, and may for example include screws, pins, rivets, nails, clips, clamps, or any combination thereof.

In preferable embodiments, the static mass is fixed to the housing. In more preferable embodiments, the static mass is detachable from the housing. In more preferable embodiments the static mass is arranged to be replaceable according to the requirements of a recipient.

Preferably the static mass has a weight, the weight being relative to the weight of the apparatus, wherein the weight ratio of static mass : apparatus is selected from between: 1:10 and 1:2. More preferably the weight ratio is selected from between: 1:5 and 1:2.

In preferable embodiments the weight of the static mass is selected from between 50 g and 500 g. In more preferable embodiments the weight of the static mass is selected from between 100 g and 250 g.

Preferably the distance between the static mass and the first end of the housing is shorter than the distance between the motor and the first end of the housing. Preferably the static mass is positioned in between the motor and the first end of the housing.

Preferably the static mass is isolated from the drive assembly. The rubber mounts the motor has are for improvements in noise reduction (bearing rumble, brush clicking etc) among other benefits. The body of the device has a motor, the inert mass, a casing and other parts. Rubber isolation of the motor from the body can be provided.

Preferably at least a portion of the drive assembly is coupled to the housing using a compressive material. More preferably at least a portion of the drive assembly is coupled to the housing using mounts comprising one selected from the range: rubber; gel; a polymeric material; sponge; felt; cork. In accordance with preferable embodiments, forces impinged upon the housing by at least a portion of the drive assembly are reduced by coupling at least a portion of the drive assembly to the housing using a compressive material, which preferably acts as a dampener. In preferable embodiments the drive assembly comprises a motor. In more preferable embodiments, the motor is coupled to the housing using rubber mounts, which preferably reduces noise from the motor such as, for example, bearing rumble and brush clicks.

Preferably the apparatus is a massage therapy apparatus. More preferably massage therapy includes vibration therapy.

The apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention is preferably suitable for use on humans and animals.

Preferably the apparatus further comprises a power supply. Preferably the power supply comprises a battery. Preferably the battery is rechargeable. Preferably the battery is located at a battery position, the battery position being relative to the motor, the battery position being more proximate the second end of the housing.

Preferably the massage member is arranged to describe a circular, ellipsoid or gyratory path. In embodiments comprising an interchangeable therapy member, the massage member is arranged to impart a circular, ellipsoid, lateral or shearing motion upon at least a portion of the interchangeable therapy member. Preferably the massage member is positioned eccentric to the longitudinal axis of the apparatus, preferably the eccentric position is a distance from the longitudinal axis of the apparatus. More preferably the distance of eccentricity is selected from the range: 0.05 mm to 15 mm. Most preferably the distance of eccentricity is selected from the range: 1 mm to 6 mm.

Preferably the drive assembly is arranged to drive the massage member to describe the path, the path preferably being described by the massage member at a frequency selectable by a user. More preferably the frequency is selectable from between 0 Hz and 300 Hz. Most preferably the frequency is selectable from between 15 Hz and 300 Hz.

Preferably the apparatus further comprises an interchangeable therapy member in communication with the massage member. More preferably at least a portion of the interchangeable therapy member is reversibly detachable from the massage member. Still more preferably the interchangeable therapy member comprises a first contact portion arranged to engage with the massage member and a second fixation portion arranged to engage with a component of the apparatus. Preferably the massage member comprises at least one bearing arranged to engage with the interchangeable therapy member. More preferably the massage member comprises at least one bearing arranged to engage with the first contact portion. Preferably the at least one bearing comprises a ball bearing. Alternate embodiments will be appreciated wherein the massage member and the interchangeable therapy member are permanently coupled in an interchangeable sub-assembly of the apparatus according to the present invention. In said preferable embodiments, the housing and/or the drive assembly of the present invention are arranged to engage with the subassembly. In said preferable embodiments, the sub-assembly preferably comprises a fixing member arranged to affix the sub-assembly to the housing and/or the drive assembly. Preferably the sub-assembly may be reversibly affixed to the housing and/or the drive assembly.

Preferably the second fixation portion is arranged to affix the first contact portion to the massage member. Preferably the first contact portion comprises a material selected from the range: rubber; polymer; gel; plastic; wood; metal; rigid material; pliable material. Preferably the second fixation portion is the static mass. Preferably the first contact portion is arranged to transfer energy from the massage member to a surface. Preferably the interchangeable therapy member comprises an occlusion portion arranged to extend inside the housing of the apparatus. More preferably the occlusion portion extends about the perimeter of at least a portion of the massage member. More preferably the occlusion portion extends about the perimeter of at least a portion of the drive assembly. More preferably the occlusion portion extends about the perimeter of at least a portion of a drive shaft of the drive assembly. Preferably the occlusion portion is arranged to prevent access of hair to the massage member and/or the drive assembly.

Preferably the apparatus of the present invention comprises an occlusion member (collar of labyrinth). More preferably the occlusion member extends between at least a portion of the drive assembly and the housing of the present invention. More preferably the occlusion member extends between at least a portion of the drive assembly and the interchangeable therapy member. Preferably the occlusion member provides a labyrinth arranged to prevent access of hair to the massage member and/or the drive assembly. More preferably an occlusion portion of the interchangeable therapy member is arranged to compliment the labyrinthine properties of the occlusion member.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an interchangeable therapy member arranged to be positioned in communication with a massage member according to the first aspect of the present invention.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit of parts comprising, an apparatus for massage therapy according to the first aspect of the present invention; and an interchangeable therapy member according to the second aspect of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Specific embodiments will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1a provides a sectional diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus for massage therapy according to the first aspect of the invention, comprising an interchangeable therapy member according to the second aspect of the present invention and a kit of parts according to the second aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 1 b provides a plan view of a second fixation portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1a;

FIG. 2 provides an exploded view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1a;

FIG. 3 provides a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1a;

FIG. 4 provides a sectional diagram of an additional example embodiment of the first aspect present invention, comprising an interchangeable therapy member according to the second aspect of the present invention and a kit of parts according to the second aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 5 provides and exploded view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 provides a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4; and

FIG. 7 provides an additional perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 provides a sectional view of an additional example embodiment of the first aspect present invention, comprising an interchangeable therapy member according to the second aspect of the present invention and a kit of parts according to the second aspect of the present invention, substantially as shown in FIG. 4; and

FIG. 9 provides a perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 1a, an example embodiment of an apparatus for massage therapy 10 according to the first aspect of the present invention is shown, the apparatus 10 comprising a housing 12 having a first portion 13 defining a first end 14 of the housing 12, and a second portion 15 defining a second end of the housing 16. Each of the first portion 13 and the second portion 15 are substantially cylindrical, having a circular cross sectional configuration. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the cross sectional configuration of the housing is not circular, and is any appropriate shape suitable for an apparatus for massage therapy. The first portion 13 circular cross-section having a larger diameter than the second portion 15 circular cross-section. Accommodated within the housing 12 and substantially affixed thereto is a drive assembly 17 comprising a motor 18 located substantially within the second portion 15 of the housing 12. Extending from the motor 18, along the longitudinal axis of the housing 12 and through the first portion 13 is a drive shaft 20 arranged to be driven by the motor 18. The drive shaft is supported within the housing 12 by bearings 22, located proximate to each end of the first portion 13. In communication with the drive shaft 20 of the drive assembly 17, and proximate the first end 14 of the housing 12, there is positioned a crankshaft 24. The crankshaft 24 comprises a first engagement portion 25 arranged to engage with the drive shaft 20, the first engagement portion 25 having a longitudinal axis that is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis A of the drive shaft 20. The crankshaft 24 protrudes from the first end 14 of the housing 12 and at the terminal end of the crankshaft 24 and located outside of the housing 12 is a second operative portion 26 taking the form of a crank pin 26, the longitudinal axis A’ of the crankpin 26 being eccentric to the longitudinal axis A of the drive shaft 20 by a distance of eccentricity D. The crankshaft 24, comprising the first engagement portion 25 and the second operative portion 26, forms a massage member.

Immovably affixed to the first end 14 of the housing 12 is a static mass 34 taking the form of an annular weight having a groove 36 located about the periphery thereof.

In communication with the second operative portion 26 of the massage member is an interchangeable therapy member, having a first contact portion 28 taking the form of a rubber or plastic part having a curved or flat exterior surface. Additional embodiment will be appreciated wherein the first contact portion does not have a curved exterior surface, and has an exterior surface that is flat, textured, and/or angular as appropriate for the desired effect of massage therapy. The second operative portion 26 of the massage member is in rotatable communication with the first contact portion 28 due to the positioning of bearings 30 located about the second operative portion 26 and arranged to engage with an internal surface of the first contact portion 28. Due to the positioning of bearings 30 about the second operative portion 26, the massage member is arranged to rotate relative to the first contact portion 28.

The first contact portion 28 of the interchangeable therapy member, in the example embodiment shown in FIG. 1a, further comprises a second fixation portion 32, taking the form of a plastic bellows cap. A plan view of the second fixation portion 32 is shown in FIG. 1b, the second fixation portion 32 comprising a central aperture 34 arranged to engage with grooves 29 located about the periphery of the first contact portion 28. Located on the underside of the second fixation portion 32, there is positioned a flange 35 arranged to engage with the groove 36 of the static mass 34. The second fixation portion 32 comprises a plurality of concentric annular convolutions 37, diverging from the central aperture 34, the convolutions 37 providing a pliable mechanism such that the position of the central aperture 34 is movable laterally relative to the position of the second fixation portion 32. A tab 38 is provided at a position located on the periphery of the bellows cap 32, the tab 38 providing ease of removal of the bellows cap 32 from the apparatus 10.

In use a user, such as a therapist, holds the apparatus of the example embodiment shown by the second portion 15 of the housing 12 proximate the second end 16. The motor 18 of the drive assembly 17 is arranged to provide rotational drive the drive shaft 20, which in turn is arranged to provide rotational drive the massage member comprising the crankshaft 24. The distance of eccentricity D (otherwise known as the “throw”) of the crank pin 26 causes the crank pin 26 to define a circular or gyratory path around the longitudinal axis A of the drive shaft 20. The first contact portion 28 of the interchangeable therapy member is arranged to move laterally in a path defined by the crank pin 26, and does not substantially rotate relative to the apparatus 10 as a result of fixation to the static mass 34 by the second fixation portion

32. Lateral movement of the first contact portion 28 is permitted due to the pliable nature of the convolutions 37 of the second fixation portion 32. The extent of lateral movement is defined by the throw distance D of the crank pin 26 and the frequency of rotation of the drive shaft 20 defined by the motor 18. In the example embodiment shown, at therapeutic frequencies, the first contact portion 28 is arranged to provide vibration therapy to a surface, the vibration causing shear forces to the first end 14 of the housing 12. The static mass 34 located proximate the first end 14 is arranged to provide inertia, thus substantially reducing or preventing the transmission of vibration resulting from said shear forces along the extent of the housing from the first end 14 proximate the massage member, to the second end 16 proximate the user’s hands.

The apparatus 10 of the example embodiment shown is used perpendicular to the surface requiring therapy, which in a preferable example is a surface of a human or animal body, with the massage member being proximate the surface. The apparatus 10 is typically in dynamic rotational balance when not in contact with body tissue and imparts very little hand arm vibration (HAV) to the user. The apparatus 10 is not a percussive or Shiatsu type device. The first contact portion 28 of the example embodiment shown is relatively small and indents the soft tissue of the surface to which it is applied. In the example embodiment shown, the throw distance D is 0.1 to 5 mm, and thus the first contact portion 28 describes a circular (gyratory) path having a diameter of up to 10 mm, but does not rotate, therefore impinging upon the surface to cause a circular, shearing motion into the tissue because the tissue moves easily, whilst immediately adjacent to the first contact portion 28 is a heavy weight 34, which in the example shown weighs 200 g, and which moves very little due to its inertia. The weight 34 permits for the user to be required to apply only a minimum level of external force to the apparatus perpendicular to the surface. Resistance to rotation of the first contact portion 28 is offered by the soft tissue of the surface and/or the bellows cap, and movement of the first contact portion 28 is countered by the inertia provided by the static mass 34. The greater the weight of the static mass 34, the less the first end 14 of the housing 12 of the apparatus 10 will move in reaction to rotation of the massage member and subsequent movement (“vibration”) of the first contact portion 28. The therapy provided is most effective at frequencies between 15 and 200 Hz. With a first contact portion comprising a rigid, noncompressive material, the apparatus of the example embodiment shown might be unsuitable for use in bony areas, such as the skull, and spinal column, but with a more pliable rubber first contact portion 28 and smaller displacement (throw distance D), application to bony areas may be tolerable for a recipient. Another function of the bellows cap 32 is preferably to prevent entanglement of hair from a recipient around moving parts of the apparatus 10.

In normal operation of the apparatus 10, the second fixation portion (bellows cap) 32 is attached to the first contact portion 28, the sub-assembly of which is easily interchangeable with other similar sub-assemblies with different shape, texture and material (e.g. hard or soft). In further normal operation, the massage member comprising the crankshaft 24 having first engagement portion 25 and second operative portion 26 is in removable communication with the drive shaft 20 and such provides a sub-assembly which is easily interchangeable with other similar sub-assemblies with different properties, such as throw distance D. A different throw distance D preferably provides for alternate therapeutic properties, with the resulting circular or gyratory paths providing a customisable therapy according to the requirements of a recipient.

An exploded view of the example embodiment in FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 2, the example embodiment of FIG. 2 providing a detachable and interchangeable massage member 24, with fixation of the detachable massage member 24 to the drive shaft 20 being by way of a collar 44 retaining a ‘Dee’ shaped drive portion 40 and a retaining detent spring 42 which engages with a feature on the crankshaft to effect adequately firm retention, such that the first engagement portion 25 of the massage member 24 is non-rotatably coupled to the drive shaft 20. The parts for providing a detachable and interchangeable massage member in the example embodiment shown are provided for exemplification only, and additional embodiments will be conceivable wherein an appropriate detachable and interchangeable massage member is provided. Such as a ball-type detent, a spline rather than a Dee drive, a round shaft with drive dogs, a magnetic coupling or a threaded coupling.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the complete apparatus 10 of the embodiment of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.

The apparatus 10 of the embodiment shown is powered externally by a cable, but alternate embodiments may be high or low voltage AC, or low voltage DC from a power adapter, or powered by external or internal batteries.

The rotational speed of the motor 18 and drive shaft 20 may be fixed, or may be variable from 0 to 500 Hz. Power consumed by the apparatus is typically 2 W to 5 W without load and 6 W to 20 W in use. The power dissipated (that over and above the quiescent power) may be used as a measure or metric of the therapy delivered. This measure or metric may be employed in an electronic therapy limiting control, such that if the apparatus is used aggressively for, for example, 5 minutes, this may be equivalent (in energy dissipated (Joules)) to perhaps 15 minutes of very gentle usage. Or to provide warning to the therapist that a higher than desirable amount of energy is being dissipated, such as might be safe or efficacious for a particular area of the body.

An additional example embodiment 50 is shown in FIG. 4, wherein the housing 52 comprises a first portion 54 accommodating a drive assembly motor 56 therein, and a second portion 58 (both the first and second portion comprised within a single moulding) accommodating a rechargeable battery pack 60 therein, together with an integrated circuit or circuit board 62 providing on-board on/off and speed control and a visual battery charge status features for the apparatus, as well as a time-limit feature and a power limit feature. The motor 56 is arranged to drive a drive shaft 64 coupled thereto, the drive shaft 64 being in communication with an detachable and interchangeable massage member 66 comprising a crankshaft 68 having a crank pin 70, the crankshaft 68 being in communication with an interchangeable therapy member 72, the interchangeable therapy member 72 being in detachable communication with the crank pin 70 by push fit over bearings 74 positioned therebetween. The massage member 66 and the interchangeable therapy member 72 detachably coupled thereto provide an interchangeable sub-assembly, wherein the massage member 66 and/or the interchangeable therapy member 72 may be detached individually or as one and replaced by an alternate massage member 66 and/or interchangeable therapy member 72 having more preferable properties. The properties may include the material and/or shape of the interchangeable therapy member 72 or the throw distance of the crank pin 70 of the massage member 66. The crank shaft 68 of the massage member 66 is detachably coupled to, but sufficiently retained on the drive shaft 64 using a second fixation portion 76. The second fixation portion 76 prevents detachment of the massage member 66 from the drive shaft 64 during normal operation of the apparatus 50, but permits detachment following specific longitudinally applied force, applied by a user. Frictional forces present between the interchangeable therapy member 72 and the bearings 74 are sufficient to prevent detachment of the interchangeable therapy member 72 from the massage member 66 during normal operation, but can be overcome by targeted longitudinally applied forces, applied by a user to remove the interchangeable therapy member 72. Located affixed to the first portion 54 of the housing 52 and proximate the massage member 66 is a static mass 78 providing an inert weight relative to the rest of the apparatus 50.

The shape of the interchangeable therapy member, including a collar extending into the device and substantially isolating rotational parts from the exterior of the device provides a labyrinth to occlude entry to the device for stray hairs and thus aids in prevention of entanglement of hair around rotational parts. Additional embodiments may comprise an appropriate seal to isolate hair from the internal moving parts of the apparatus.

An exploded view of the example embodiment of FIG. 4 is shown in FIG. 5. An occlusion member 80 is shown having a tubular portion, the tubular portion arranged to extend between the crankshaft 68 of the massage member 66 and the static mass 78 once affixed in place within the apparatus 50. The tubular portion of the occlusion member 80 is arranged to compliment a tubular occlusion portion of the interchangeable therapy member 72 arranged to extend between the occlusion member 80 and the static mass 72 once affixed in place in the apparatus 50. The occlusion member 80 and the tubular occlusion portion of the interchangeable therapy member 72 act as a labyrinth, arranged to prevent access of hair to the drive assembly or massage member, thus preventing entanglement.

A perspective view of the apparatus 50 is shown in FIG. 6 having the interchangeable therapy member 72 closest to the viewer. A further perspective view of the apparatus 50 is shown in FIG. 7, providing a view of the back of the apparatus 50, wherein the controls and visual diagnostic features of the control PCB (including one or more integrated circuits) 62 are shown, these including a power control 82, a rotational speed control 84, a rechargeable battery charging port 86, and a visual battery level indicator 88. Speed control coupled with an adjustment or replacement of the massage member and/or interchangeable therapy member therefore provide for varying of the speed and/or amplitude, providing adaptation for specific tissue types and localisation or otherwise of therapy provided by the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, an apparatus substantially according to that shown in FIG. 4 is provided, having an interchangeable tip assembly 92 comprising a massage member having a crankshaft and a crankpin eccentric thereto, and further comprising a therapy member substantially equal to the interchangeable therapy member discussed herein. The individual components of the interchangeable tip subassembly 92 are permanently affixed to one another and the interchangeably tip subassembly 92 is therefore arranged to be detached and reattached to the rest of the apparatus 90. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the interchangeable tip subassembly (like that shown 92) comprises individual components which are separable from one another and may themselves be reattached or interchanged.

It will be appreciated that the above described embodiments are given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, in the embodiments described, the interchangeable therapy member comprises only a single point of contact with a surface. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein an interchangeable member for use in the present invention comprises any appropriate number of points of contact with a required surface.

The described embodiments comprise an interchangeable therapy member comprising rubber and/or plastic. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the interchangeable therapy member comprises any appropriate material suitable for use in vibration therapy of soft tissue and tissue comprising or proximate to cartilage or bone.

In the described embodiments, the throw distance of the crank pin of the massage member is 2 mm. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein any appropriate throw distance is provided, suitable for providing an appropriate vibration therapy to a recipient. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the throw distance of a massage member is adjustable.

In the described embodiments, the static mass is located on the outside of the housing. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein at least part of the static mass is located inside the housing.

In the described embodiments, the weight of the static mass is fixed. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the static mass can be removed from the housing and reattached. Further additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the static mass can be exchanged for a static mass of differing weight. Still further additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the weight of the static mass is adjustable by addition or subtraction of parts.

In the described embodiment of FIG. 4, the rechargeable battery pack is fixed. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the rechargeable battery pack is removable, rechargeable external to the apparatus, and replaceable. In additional embodiments, the device can be simultaneously used and charged. In additional embodiments, the apparatus is powered by non-rechargeable batteries.

In the embodiments described, the internal circuit comprises fixed controls. Additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the controls are quickly detachable with the intention that they could be upgraded by a user to controls of a more versatile and sophisticated nature, perhaps having a timer, servo-locked speed control, and/or varying speed ‘programs’ or cyclically varying rotations and/or oscillations.

Claims

1. An apparatus for massage therapy comprising, a housing comprising a first end and a second end;

a drive assembly coupled to the housing;

a massage member in communication with the drive assembly, the massage member arranged to protrude from the first end of the housing; and a static mass coupled to the housing; wherein the static mass is proximate the first end of the housing and wherein, in use the static mass is arranged to be immovable with respect to the housing.

2. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing is arranged to be held by a user.

3. An apparatus as claimed in claim 2, wherein the housing is arranged to be held proximate the second end of the housing.

4. An apparatus as claimed in claim 1, claim 2, or claim 3, wherein the drive assembly comprises a motor, and a drive shaft arranged to be driven by the motor; and wherein in the drive shaft is arranged to drive the massage member.

5. An apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the massage member comprises a crankshaft having a longitudinal axis, the crankshaft comprising a first engagement portion arranged to engage with the drive shaft, and a second operative portion comprising a crankpin, the crankpin being positioned eccentric to the longitudinal axis of the crankshaft.

6. An apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the crankpin comprises at least one bearing.

7. An apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein the bearing is a ball bearing.

8. An apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the crankpin is eccentric to the longitudinal axis of the crankshaft by a distance, the distance being one selected from the range: 0.05 mm to 15 mm.

9. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the massage member is reversibly detachable from the drive assembly.

10. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least a portion of the drive assembly is located inside the housing.

11. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the static mass is located substantially exterior to the housing.

12. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the static mass is coupled to the housing by way of one selected from the range: a screw thread; a push fit; a clamp; a fixing member.

13. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the static mass has a weight, the weight being relative to the weight of the apparatus, wherein the weight ratio of static mass : apparatus is selected from between: 1:10 and 1:2.

14. An apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the weight ratio is selected from between: 1:5 and 1:2.

15. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distance between the static mass and the first end of the housing is shorter than the distance between the drive assembly and the first end of the housing.

16. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is a massage therapy apparatus.

17. An apparatus as claimed in claim 15, wherein massage therapy includes vibration therapy.

18. An apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus further comprises an interchangeable therapy member in communication with the massage member.

19. An apparatus as claimed in claim 18, wherein at least a portion of the interchangeable therapy member is reversibly detachable from the massage member.

20. An apparatus as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19 wherein the interchangeable therapy member comprises a first contact portion arranged to engage with the massage member and a second fixation portion arranged to engage with a component of the apparatus.

21. An apparatus as claimed in claim 20, wherein the second fixation portion is arranged to affix the first contact portion to the massage member.

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22. An apparatus as claimed in claim 20 or claim 21, wherein the first contact portion is arranged to transfer energy from the massage member to a surface.

23. An interchangeable therapy member arranged to be positioned in communication with a massage member of an apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18.

24. A kit of parts comprising, an apparatus for massage therapy as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18; and an interchangeable therapy member as claimed in claim 23.