JP2023500737A - vibration device - Google Patents

Abstract

A device for delivering therapeutic vibrations to the body is described. The device can include at least two motors in a housing with unbalanced masses coupled to their drive shafts such that vibrations of the mass vibrate the two motors and the housing at the beat frequency. The motor and housing can be coupled to the body via a platform that positions the motor and housing at or near a resonant structure within the body to generate coupled vibration between the platform and the body. Feedback loops, external stimuli, diagnostic routines and artificial intelligence techniques can be applied to the system to enhance the user's experience. [Selection drawing] Fig. 1a

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This is a PCT application claiming priority to US Provisional Application No. 6,294,188, filed December 3, 2019.
STATEMENTS REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH Not applicable.
Notes on microfiche appendix Not applicable.
The present invention relates to a system for applying therapeutic vibration and/or compression.

It has long been recognized that muscle and limb (or limb/limb) massage can provide perceptually pleasing therapeutic effects. These effects may include improved blood or lymphatic circulation, improved blood flow, reduced blood pressure, or even just a general feeling of well-being. Massage is commonly performed by a professional masseuse or by a mechanized chair, for example, as found at airports to assist tired travelers who have been sitting for hours. .

The medical therapeutic effects of massage or compression therapy are largely unknown. Several patents have been granted that direct the application of massage to improve the condition or outcome of patients with some medical disorder. Many medical disorders have as one symptom inadequate circulation of bodily fluids. Exemplary such disorders can include, for example, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes and heart disease. It has been reported that vibratory and/or pressure massage may improve blood flow in patients with ischemia and lymphatic flow in those with lymphedema.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) limits the ability to breathe over time. COPD is characterized by mucus in the lungs that clogs the airways and traps bacteria, causing infection, inflammation, respiratory failure, and other complications. It is hypothesized that massage therapy may help loosen mucus and allow normal breathing.

To this end, Shockley et al., U.S. Pat. No. 9,895,287, discloses a torso-mounted engine having a plurality of engines that apply vibratory forces to at least one treatment area of a patient to move secretions within the airway. The harness to be used is described. In this device, the vibration force (motor amplitude and/or frequency) can be adjusted by the user or caregiver. US Pat. Nos. 9,956,134 and 9,907,725 to Shockley et al. also describe other features of this device. All are directed to using this vest-like harness with multiple simple rotating motors to assist in the mobilization of secretions, for example in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). there is

However, the effectiveness of massage therapy in treating these diseases has not been well studied. The present disclosure describes novel devices for repeated application of therapeutic vibration and/or compression to achieve a wide range of results, including relief from mucus build-up in persons with COPD.

Disclosed herein are embodiments of haptic stimulation systems that use one or more motors coupled to a relatively rigid enclosure. A motor may comprise a mass that rotates on a drive shaft (or axle) about a point that is not at the center of rotational inertia of the mass (or mass). Therefore, the mass can cause the motor to vibrate or wobble due to rotational imbalance. This assembly may be referred to herein as a motor with eccentric rotating mass (ERM).

Accordingly, several embodiments of vibration and/or compression devices are disclosed herein that have several novel attributes. In one embodiment, a motor is attached to the garment or vest and has a rotatable drive shaft with a mass eccentrically mounted on the drive shaft. The asymmetrically rotating mass produces vibrations that can apply therapeutic vibrations and/or compressions to the patient's torso.

In another embodiment, the rotating mass can include two or more rotating masses. These rotating masses may rotate at different frequencies such that beat frequencies are generated within the structure and transmitted to the body. These beat frequencies may be low and consistent with naturally occurring body rhythms such as breathing and heartbeat. In some embodiments, one or more motors with ERMs may be held within an elastomeric material that enhances coupling of the one or more motors to the body.

In some embodiments, vibration and/or compression devices may be used in architectures that use feedback from measured parameters to change vibration modes. Another embodiment uses a learning algorithm with artificial intelligence to dictate the vibration mode. Both of these embodiments enhance the ability of the described system to adapt to the individual. In other embodiments, the architecture encodes various stimulus sensations as tactile sensations delivered via multiple vibration and/or compression devices. In other embodiments, the architecture encodes environmental stimuli such as visual and sound as tactile sensations delivered via multiple vibration and/or compression devices.

In another embodiment, vibration and/or compression devices may be used in conjunction with sensors that measure some attribute of the user's body, comfort or function. The vibration and/or compression device may then be adjusted to achieve predetermined conditions within the user. This condition can be rest, lower heart rate, lower blood pressure, and the like.

In some embodiments, accelerometers can be used to accurately characterize motion imparted by vibration and/or compression devices or wobbling motors. In other embodiments, motion can be characterized by monitoring (or monitoring) performance metrics of the motor or the device itself.

In another embodiment, a stimulus is applied to the user and the stimulus is also analyzed to characterize some attribute of the stimulus. For example, if an auditory stimulus is applied, the signal is also analyzed by a spectrum analyzer, which measures the audio power in certain auditory bands. A vibration and/or compression device may then be driven by an algorithm based on the spectral content of the audio signal. Visual stimuli can be processed in a similar manner.

Feedback techniques may be applied to sensors and controllers to drive measurements to predetermined levels. Exemplary measurements include respiration, heart rate, brain waves, blood pressure, skin perspiration, blood flow, muscle tension, blinks, and pupil diameter. Many more possible measurements and adjustments are envisioned, some of which are described in the exemplary embodiments described below.

Various exemplary details are described with reference to the following drawings.

FIG. 1a is a simplified schematic diagram of a vibration or compression device using at least one motor with an eccentric rotating mass (ERM) and attached to a controller, and FIG. 1b is a spring-mass damper. 1 is a simplified schematic of a mechanical loading diagram of a vibrating or compression device showing elastic and inelastic constraints in the surroundings represented by damper); FIG.

FIG. 2a is a simplified schematic diagram of two motors with eccentric rotating masses, and FIG. 2c are plots showing three different mechanical vibration frequency ranges of two motors with eccentric rotating masses, vibration from eccentric rotating masses, beat frequency from interaction of two eccentric rotating masses, and Fig. 3 is a plot showing determined amplitude modulation;

FIG. 3 is a simplified schematic of different components in a system architecture using at least one biometric sensor, an auxiliary control component (or component), an analyzer, and a vibration and/or compression device with an external auditory feedback mechanism. Along with the figure, the implementation of the eccentric motor on the vest garment worn on the torso is shown.

FIG. 4 shows experimental data for control signals driving eccentric rotary mass motors to induce vibrations in the chest to modulate physiological processes.

FIG. 5a is a simplified schematic superimposed on experimental data implementing an algorithm for a vibration and/or compression device based on inputs from sensors measuring one piece of information, showing feedback and direct input methods; and FIG. 5b is a flow chart showing sensing, actuation and feedback.

Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d show various delivery platforms and utilize vibration and/or compression devices.

Figure 7a shows the approximate resonant frequencies for different parts of the body and Figure 7b shows the mechanical coupling to the body.

Figures 8a-8e are simplified schematics of motors with eccentric rotating masses embedded in elastomeric grids of various geometries. Figure 8a is a side view of the system, Figure 8b is one embodiment of an elastomeric material, Figure 8c is another embodiment of an elastomeric material, Figure 8d is another embodiment of an elastomeric material, Figure 8e shows a simplified plan view of a vibration-generating device encased in an elastomeric material.

It is an object of the present invention to stimulate a user's mechanoreceptors with a device that generates multiple vibration or compression pulses. The device may be driven by some stimulus characteristic, or function based on some desired therapeutic goal, or to transmit information with tactile sensations. As such, the functionality may be arbitrarily complex, and the considerations involved in determining the details of the functionality are more fully described below.

As used herein, the term "actuator" is used interchangeably with "motor", "vibration device", "vibration generating device" and "compression device" and refers to a motor with an ERM. The term "compression device" is used below to emphasize that the motion may not be strictly oscillatory or sinusoidal or regularly repeating. In fact, waveforms can be very complex. A vibration generating device or compression device may be driven by a "function" or a "waveform", and these terms are interchangeable to refer to signals sent by the motor controller to the motor to control its behavior. used where possible. A function or waveform may or may not be regular, repetitive, and/or oscillatory. Also, the term "controller" is used generically to refer to a data processing unit that typically comprises a microprocessor integrated circuit capable of executing a series of commands specified by its software. Thus, a "controller" may be synonymous with a "computer," "ASIC," or "microprocessor." A controller may be a single unit or multiple units that perform different functions, but together serve to control a device such as one or more motors or systems of motors.

In many embodiments, this actuator or vibration device is a motor having a mass attached to the drive shaft of the motor. The mass mounting may be off-center so that the inertia of the rotational offset causes the motor to wobble or vibrate. It should be appreciated that this eccentric rotating mass ERM can have any shape, including but not limited to elliptical or circular. The defining feature is that the inertia of the spinning mass is not rotationally symmetric and therefore unbalanced. In some embodiments, the eccentric mass may be a simple circle, but attached at a point that is not the center of symmetry. In other embodiments, the mass may be oval or polygonal, or virtually any shape.

This disclosure is organized as follows. First, details of novel vibration and/or compression devices using ERMs are described, as well as a number of design alternatives. Next, several delivery platform options, i.e. how the vibration and/or compression device is deployed (or placed, deployed, leveraged) to the user. explain whether Next, some system architectures, ie how the delivery platform is used to achieve therapeutic goals, are described. Methods associated with these architectures are now described. Finally, some applications are described and elastomeric bonding materials are described.

In the following description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof and which show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Embodiments of vibration and/or compression devices

FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a therapeutic vibration and/or compression device 100 using an eccentric rotating mass (ERM). As shown in FIG. 1, motor 30 has drive shaft 31 rotated by motor 30 . Mounted on the drive shaft 31 is an eccentric non-circular mass 20 . As shown in FIG. 1, the mass 20 can be mounted on the drive shaft 31 in such a way that it is rotationally asymmetrical. In other words, the drive shaft 31 is not located at the center of symmetry of the mass 20 . As a result, the force of the asymmetric rotating mass 20 may cause the motor 30 to oscillate.

In some embodiments, mass 20 may be oval, but this is not required. The only requirement is that the rotational inertia does not have to be rotationally symmetrical. In other words, a rotationally asymmetric mass can cause the motor assembly to vibrate at certain frequencies. The frequency of that vibration may depend on the embodiment, as explained below.

Motor 30 is typically a conventional DC motor or brushless DC motor with a conventional stator and windings.

The motor 30 can be attached to the backing, chassis or housing 10, and the backing can be attached to the delivery platform. The backing, chassis or housing may be a piece of mechanically resistant and relatively rigid material such as plastic, plywood or metal. The material is preferably capable of supporting the weight and vibration-related forces of the motor. Also, the material should be suitably stiff and resilient to effectively transmit vibrations to the user.

Attachment methods may include sewing, stapling, gluing, gluing, Velcro, zip tying, or any other convenient way to attach vibration and/or compression device 100 to backing or chassis 10. can be any method. Alternatively, the attachment method may be snaps, buckles, or belts. The mounting mechanism should preferably be relatively rigid so that vibrations are effectively coupled to the backing or chassis 10 . The vibration device may be removable so that it can be relocated (or relocated) as needed. If the vibrating device is in a garment with a pocket, the user can move the device to another location, such as a pocket. The mounting mechanism is shown schematically as 50 and may be any of the mounting mechanisms described above or any other means by which the vibration motor is firmly and relatively rigidly attached to the backing, chassis, or housing 10. should be understood to refer to In one embodiment, the attachment mechanism may be known inexpensive cable tie downs, also known as "zip ties" (or zip ties).

In one embodiment, there may be a two step attachment process. After the mass has been attached, for example by setscrews, swaging or gluing, the motor can be attached or captured by the housing. This can be done to protect the eccentric rotating mass.

The motor and housing can then be attached to a platform, ie clothing, chair, cushion for example. In some cases the motors are in the same housing and are coupled in this manner. In other cases, the motor is in its own separate case and then coupled through another board. In some embodiments, the motor/casing may then be coupled through the user's body.

It may be helpful to use some deformable mechanism to apply pressure against the body to hold the vibration and/or compression device. For example, vibration and/or compression devices may have tension members that hold the device against the body. The attachment mechanism can thereby transmit vibration or pressure to the body in a manner that minimizes interference and avoids irritation or abrasion. Other types of attachment and deformable mechanisms are also possible, but the options are too numerous to list here. A particularly effective deformable mechanism is the elastomeric material described below with respect to Figures 8a-8e.

The delivery platform may be, for example, a chair, mattress, cushion, or some other delivery platform that places the device 10 in close proximity to the body.

The backing, chassis or housing 10 may also support a sensing device 11 capable of sensing motion imparted to the delivery platform, chassis or housing 10 . The sensor may be, for example, an accelerometer. This accelerometer can be used to measure the amplitude of vibration caused by rotating mass 20 spinning (or rotating) on drive shaft 31 by motor 30 . Sensed acceleration can provide a feedback signal to motor controller 40 when precise motion control is required.

Motor 30 can be, for example, a DC motor driven by controller 40 that can send current or voltage to the windings of motor 30 . These details are discussed more fully below. The drive voltage or drive current can have a constant value, resulting in a relatively constant rotational speed of motor 30 and mass 20 . However, more complex waveforms are also conceivable and some are depicted in FIG. 2b.

FIG. 1b shows a vibration generating device positioned against a user's body 19 and stationary surface 15, with elastomeric materials 60-64 disposed around a vibration generating motor 30. FIG. Elastomeric materials, their structure and function are more fully described below with respect to mechanical coupling and FIG.

FIG. 2a shows a first motor 30 similar to the motor 30 depicted in FIG. 1a. However, in this embodiment there may be a second motor 32 similar to the first motor 30 and positioned adjacent to the first motor 30 . The motor 32 may also have an eccentric rotating mass 22 obliquely mounted on the drive shaft 33 of the motor 32 . Thus, both motor 30 and motor 32 are mounted at an angle rotating with unbalanced force such that both motor 30 and motor 32 oscillate together. It has masses 20 and 22 .

FIG. 2c is a graph showing the acceleration of the device shown in FIG. That is, FIG. 2c shows the acceleration of the rotating mass 20 (or similarly the acceleration of the entire motor and casing assembly). As mass 20 rotates on drive shaft 31 driven by motor 30, the magnitude of acceleration is shown as a function of time (in arbitrary units). The interval between acceleration peaks corresponds to the rotation period of the motor. This acceleration may be related to motor vibration, or sway, as a result of the eccentrically mounted mass.

Controllers 40 and 42 may control motors 30 and 32, respectively. In particular, controller 40 can drive motor 30 at a _first frequency f1 and controller 42 can drive motor 32 and a _second frequency f2. As a result, the backing, chassis or housing 10 may vibrate at different frequencies between the _two frequencies f1 and f2 due to _intermodal interference. This interference can cause harmonics, or beat frequencies resulting from their interaction, as is well known in control theory and signal processing. Therefore, the interaction between these vibrating masses, backing, chassis or housing 10 is at the beat frequency, ie, the frequency f ₁ of motor 30 minus the frequency f ₂ of motor 32, f _beat =f ₁ −f ₂ . can have a vibration of Thus, the backing, chassis or housing 10 can vibrate at a frequency much lower than either the first frequency of motor 30 applied or the second frequency applied to motor 32 .

This assembly of two motors having an eccentric rotating mass but rotating at different frequencies and coupled via the backing 10 may comprise a second embodiment 100' of a vibration and/or compression device. This embodiment is labeled 100′ in FIG. 2a, and thus the vibration and/or compression is applied at a much lower velocity and higher amplitude than would each individual motor 30 and 32 vibrate alone. be able to.

Figure 2b is a plot showing the amplitude of motion of the combined eccentric rotary mass ERM motors 30 and 32 in the vibration/compression device 100', one motor driven by one frequency and the other motor driven by another frequency. Indicates when it is driven. In the data shown in Figure 2b, the difference between the two frequencies is approximately 1 Hz. As a result, the beat frequency occurs at about 1 Hz, as shown in chart a of FIG. 2b. Among the key advantages of this particular embodiment is the ability to achieve low frequencies without using large, low frequency, expensive motors. By using beat frequencies produced by two motors of different frequencies, vibrations and/or compressions can be conveniently generated, as explained more fully below.

One particularly interesting embodiment is that the _first frequency f1 applied to the motor 30 is kept constant while the _second frequency f2 applied to the motor 32 is changed to This may be the case when sweeping through a frequency range. _In this case, the beat frequency is also swept over _a range that is the difference between f1 and f2. Using this architecture, beat frequencies can be conveniently and easily designed to overlap (or overlap) or nearly overlap with naturally occurring physiological rhythms such as heart rate or respiration. Using such an approach, the autonomic nervous system could respond by changing the physiological rhythm to more resemble the beat frequency of a motor. Therefore, applying a beat frequency that is close to, but slightly lower than, the user's resting heart rate can result in helping to lower the resting heart rate. Several applications described in the following sections make use of such concepts.

In Figure 2a, masses 20 and 22 may rotate in opposite directions, or with a phase or frequency difference between them, or they may rotate synchronously. These selections, namely whether periodic or counter-periodic, the phase relationship between the eccentric masses 20 and 22, the amplitude and frequency are all dependent on the vibration and/or compression device 100' can affect the behavior of These design choices can be made depending on the details of the application and the desired behavior of the vibration and/or compression device 100'.

It should be appreciated that the design concepts described herein may also be applied to vibration and/or compression devices having any other number of motors than one, two or three. As vibration and/or compression devices become more complex, more complex behaviors can be represented by them, and as a result the details can be very complex. Common to all embodiments, however, is a drive shaft that rotates in an unbalanced mass that imparts a wobble or vibration to the rotation of the motor.
delivery platform

Vibration devices can be used on many delivery platforms. For example, the vibration device can be attached to the lining of a vibration and/or compression vest that fits snugly around the torso. Alternatively, it may be adapted to a bed mattress or chair or cushion. The device or delivery platform may be sized according to the body size of the individual user.

A first delivery platform, described below, is that of a wearable garment 101 attached to the body. A first example is a garment worn on the torso, such as a vest 101 . Vest 101 can be snugly fitted to the patient using a configurable or adjustable fitting mechanism. The fitting mechanism can be, for example, snaps, Velcro®, buckles, belts, laces that can pull the garment up like a corset. The fitting mechanism serves to hold the multiple vibration and/or compression devices 100 firmly against the user's body. The vest 101 may also be equipped with wireless antennas/receivers, whose parameters, movements, behavior, users or sensors may be monitored and/or adjusted wirelessly or remotely or via the Internet. enable

The vest embodiment 101 shown in FIG. 3 can have three vibration and/or compression devices 100 positioned on the right hand side of the user's torso (shown on the back of FIG. 3). Three additional vibration and/or compression devices 100 can be placed on the front of the vest 101 and on the user's right hand side. It should be understood that this is an exemplary embodiment only and that more or less vibration and/or compression devices 100 can be placed in the vest embodiment 101 . Additionally, the vibration and/or compression device 100 may be placed at any of a number of different locations on the wearer's torso. These may be the locations chosen because they are particularly effective in achieving therapeutic goals, as further described below.

In the system shown in Figure 3, multiple sensors 65, 70 and 75 can be applied to the body. Although sensors can be placed anywhere a piece of information can be obtained by a sensor, in some embodiments sensors are located on the head, chest and wrists, for example, as shown by sensors 65, 70 and 75 in FIG. It can be placed on or near. It should be understood that this is exemplary only and that sensors may be deployed in many different areas, such as the chest, in different amounts. Sensors 65, 70 and 75 can be externally, internally or remotely located. Sensors, however, are configured to measure certain information, which is generally related to the user's state or condition. The term "sensor" can also include motion sensors or accelerometers 11 that monitor movement of the vibration generating device 100 or 100'.

This vest 101 may be an example of general clothing, and may take the form of, for example, pant legs, socks, hats, earrings or headbands. Vest embodiment 101 is merely illustrative of a generic wearable garment, as distinct from the other delivery platforms described below. It should be appreciated that vibration and/or compression device 100 can be incorporated into many different delivery platforms to deliver therapeutic vibration and/or compression to a user. Some of these delivery platforms are shown in Figures 6a-6d.

Figures 6a-6d show four other delivery platforms upon which the vibration and/or compression device 100 may be deployed. Figure 6a shows a chair 12, where a vibration and/or compression device 100 is placed behind the chair fabric. Additionally, additional vibration and/or compression devices 100 may be deployed in the seat of the chair or in the armrests of the chair as shown. The location and distribution of vibration and/or compression devices can be optimized to achieve therapeutic goals.

FIG. 6b shows a sleeping or horizontal delivery platform 14 on which the user can recline (or recline) to receive a vibratory and/or pressure therapeutic massage. In Figure 6b, a vibration and/or compression device 100 is shown distributed in front of a mattress or delivery platform.

Figure 6c shows a seat cushion 16 with multiple vibration and/or compression devices 100 also deployed. This configuration can be particularly effective for coupling vibrations to the user's torso or spine in a resonant manner.

Figure 6d shows a pendant earring 18, with a vibration and/or compression device 100 also deployed and suspended from the ear lobe.

Also, for example, headbands, wristbands, shoe inserts (or shoe inserts) are conceivable. This list is not meant to be exhaustive and is exemplary only in the modes in which vibration and/or compression device 100 may be deployed to provide therapeutic vibration and/or compression to a user.

It should be understood that the placement and number of compressor devices used is a design choice that can be made depending on the application, function and purpose of the therapeutic device.

Accordingly, disclosed herein is a vibration generating device for applying vibrations to a user's body. The device comprises at least one first motor set comprising a first motor 30, a drive shaft 31 driven by the first motor 30, and at least one asymmetrical mass 20 coupled to said drive shaft 31. A solid 100 may be included, wherein the asymmetric mass is coupled to the drive shaft at a point offset from its center of mass, so that when the asymmetric mass is rotated by a first motor 30, the frequency, It is characterized by generating vibrations having amplitude and phase. The vibration generating device may further include at least one sensor that measures a quantity and a controller 110 that urges the measured quantity value toward a predetermined value under closed-loop feedback control. ), adjusting at least one of the frequency, amplitude and phase of the vibration based on the measured quantity.

In the vibration generating device, the first motor assembly comprises at least one second motor 32 rotating at a second frequency with at least one second asymmetric mass 22 coupled to a second drive shaft 33. wherein the second motor 32 is mechanically coupled to the first motor 30 such that the coupled motor pair assembly 100' beats interference ( defining at least one coupled motor pair assembly 100' characterized by producing a beat interference pattern, the beat interference pattern having characteristic frequencies and amplitudes that define therapeutic vibrations.

In some embodiments, the beat interference pattern generated by the coupled motor pair assembly is also tuned by the controller to interact with naturally occurring mammalian physiological rhythms. Well, wherein the naturally occurring mammalian physiological rhythm is at least one of heart rate, respiration rate, heart rate variability, blinks, sleep cycle, circadian rhythm. In other embodiments, at least one motor pair assembly is naturally resonating at a characteristic frequency such that the motor and a naturally occurring mammalian resonant structure form a resonant coupled system. It may be coupled to the resulting mammalian resonant structure.

Some embodiments may employ multiple motor pair assemblies, which are positioned adjacent to at least one naturally occurring resonant physiological structure. , a naturally occurring resonant physiological structure and at least one motor pair assembly defining a coupled oscillator. A plurality of linked motor pair assemblies can be placed on a platform, which can be clothing (101), chair (12), mattress (14), hat, headband, earrings (18), eye mask, At least one of a strap, a recliner, a floor and a cushion (16).

The vibration-producing device further comprises an antenna for wireless data transmission and reception, and thus can be configured to be wirelessly monitored or regulated.
system architecture

In the system shown in Figure 3, multiple sensors 65, 70 and 75 are applied to the body. Although sensors can be placed anywhere a piece of information can be obtained by a sensor, in some embodiments sensors are located on the head, chest and wrists, for example, as shown by sensors 65, 70 and 75 in FIG. It can be placed on or near. It should be understood that this is exemplary only and that sensors may be deployed in many different areas, such as the chest, in different amounts. Sensors 65, 70 and 75 can be externally, internally or remotely located. However, sensors are configured to measure certain information, which is generally related to the state or condition of the user or the behavior (or rhe behavior) of the vibration generating device.

A biometric sensing device that measures an item of information can participate in this system in a feedback loop, as further described below. Alternatively, the information may be supplied to the decision-making unit, which may adjust the motor controller in response to the particular behavior measured by the sensing unit. This unit is also called a "mapping unit" because it may map one item (sensor signal level) to another item (algorithm applied to the motor). The decision making unit can also use artificial intelligence.

A number of biometric quantities can be monitored, including heart rate, eccrine activity, and heart rate variability (HRV). However, other biological aspects may be measured including blood pressure, respiratory rate, blinking, oxygenation. Other aspects are for example respiratory effort, EEG theta/beta ratio, pili muscle activity, electrogastrography, reaction time, electrooculogram, pupillary diameter, micro and macro saccade (or impulsive, saccade) activity, posture, skin potential, electromyogram, pre-ejection time (PEP), stroke volume, cardiac output, left ventricular ejection time (LVET) , blood pressure, and vascular resistance. This list is not meant to be exhaustive, but only meant to provide examples of information that can be used with vibration devices.

The outputs of sensors 65, 70 and 75 may be supplied to computer 110 which receives the sensor signals and records them. After the computer 110 receives the sensory output, it can send the signal to the analyzer 112 . The analyzer can analyze the signal to characterize the condition of the user wearing therapeutic garment 101 .

When the analyzer has completed analyzing the signal from computer 110, it can send a signal to mapper 116 shown in FIG. This mapper can map the analyzed sensor results to specific algorithms that are then applied to the motor 30 by the motor controller 40 . Some examples of this mapping algorithm are further described below in the section directed to applications.

Thus, in some embodiments, the vibration generating device can include at least one sensor (65, 70 and 75) that senses at least one information, said at least one information being the body's physical (or physical), psychological, emotional, and environmental conditions, wherein at least one of the frequency, amplitude and timing of successive pulses is associated with said at least Based on one piece of information. Accordingly, the vibration generating device further includes a mapping unit 116 that, based on at least one piece of information, associates the measurands sensed by the sensors 65, 70, 75 with algorithms that generate motor drive waveforms for driving the vibration generating device. It's okay.

In one embodiment, the user's pulse rate is monitored by a wrist-deployed sensor and the sensory output is recorded by computer 110 . This data may also be sent to computer 110, possibly in combination with other data such as blood pressure, respiration, sweat, and the like. Data collected by computer 110 from sensors deployed on the user can then be sent to analyzer 112 . Analyzer 112 may analyze the data, for example, to characterize the level of relaxation or arousal currently experienced by the user. For example, if the analyzer 112 determines that the user is stressed or hypertensive, the analyzer may send a message directly to the mapper 116 to apply stress reduction algorithms to the motor controllers 40-48. The stress reduction algorithm is substantially synchronous with heart rate, but may include slightly lower vibration and/or compression pulses. This may prompt the autonomic nervous system to relax breathing, blood pressure or pulse rate. Other examples of stress reduction algorithms are described below with respect to other implementations and embodiments.

In a general flow, the algorithms can be supplied to motor controllers 40-48 which control the motion of the motors according to the applied algorithms. Thus, the motors in the vibration and/or compression devices actually perform what can be quite complex vibration sequences in terms of frequency, phase and amplitude changes.

In some embodiments of this system architecture, another sensing cycle may occur after the algorithm is provided to the motor controller and used by the motor. That is, the controller 110 can re-poll the sensors 65, 70 and 75 to detect the effects of the vibration and/or compression device on the user. For example, the user may be a patient with a high level of stress as evidenced by an elevated heart rate. A heart rate monitor can measure a user's heart rate and provide it to a controller and/or a signal analyzer, which determines that the user's heart rate is above a target heart rate. A signal can be sent to a mapper 116 that can invoke a heart rate reduction algorithm. After a period of time, the sensor may be polled again to see if the stress level has decreased as represented by the sensor output. Otherwise, different algorithms may be invoked or signal levels may be changed.

Accordingly, the vibration generating device controls at least one of the first motor assembly 100 and the coupled vibration motor pair assembly 100' and is programmed to execute the algorithm defined by the sequence. A capable controller 110 can be used, where algorithms and vibration sequences are selected based on measurements of at least one sensor 65 , 70 , 75 . Measured quantities include acceleration, rotational velocity, heart rate (HR), electrodermal activity (EDA), heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP), blood acceleration, blood velocity, evoked response, skin Temperature, Core Body Temperature, Impedance Cardiography, Electrical Bioimpedance, Respiratory Rate (BR), Respiratory Rate Variability (BRV), Blink, Blood Oxygenation (SpO2), Respiratory Effort (RE), Electroencephalography ( or electroencephalography (EEG), pili muscle activity, cortisol levels, circadian rhythm, startle response, electrogastrogram (EGG), reaction time, electrooculography (EOG), Pupil diameter, ocular saccade activity (macro/micro), body position (or body posture/Body Posture), skin potential (SP), electromyogram (EMG), pre-ejection period (PEP), stroke volume ( SV), cardiac output (CO), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), isovolumic contraction time (IVCT), left ventricular contractility, vascular resistance (VR) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy of the brain (or , device) (fNIRS).

It should be understood that the number and placement of these vibration and/or compression devices 100 in the architecture shown in FIG. 3 are exemplary only, and other configurations may also be selected. Also, it should be understood that the methods described herein are equally (or equally) applicable to other platforms such as those shown in Figures 6a-6d. It should also be appreciated that the functions of signal analyzer 112 and mapper 116 may be performed by a single computer 110 such that separate functional units are not required. Not all of the functionality described herein, including the signal analyzer and mapper, is required in all architectures, and some may be completely absent.

In some embodiments, there may not be a feedback loop, but the sensor output is simply applied to a mapper or decision-making unit 116 that selects an algorithm to apply to motor controller 40 . Alternatively, sensor values can be supplied to a user who can directly select algorithms to be applied to vibration and/or compression device 100 . A simple example is the sensor output applied directly to the amplifier driving the compression device, with or without filters to smooth the signal and modify the phase of the compression device output.

It should be understood that not all of the components shown in FIG. 3 are required for a given system architecture or application. For example, the output of a heart rate monitor can be sent directly to mapping unit 116 , which then selects the algorithm to apply to motor 30 via motor controller 40 .

It will also be appreciated that the modules shown in FIG. 3 may be implemented solely in software. That is, a single computer 110 can monitor heart rate, compare it to target values, look up appropriate vibration and/or compression device algorithms, and apply them to the motor controllers.

There are many examples of possible motor algorithms. These motor control algorithms can be applied to individual motors, banks of motors, or all motors. They can have simple oscillatory waveforms or arbitrarily complex time-varying waveforms. The applied amplitude and frequency may vary to convey information or a particular sensation to the user. One example is a control algorithm that applies a waveform to a motor, then with a time delay to the next motor, and then (or again) to the next motor in sequence, which passes through the subject. Wave effect can be provided.

In the architecture of FIG. 3 , in addition to sensors, controller 110 , analyzer 112 and mapper 116 , there may be other additional systems 118 that may be coupled to garment 101 . This system 118 can apply cooling or heating capabilities to the user. Heat is believed to have a mild effect, so warming the torso may help reduce stress on this structure (or architecture). System 118 may also be a pneumatic system capable of applying air pressure to vest 101 to modify vibration and/or compression characteristics. Finally, module 118 may be a cooling device. Application of lower temperatures is known to have therapeutic effects and can be particularly therapeutic in combination with massage therapy to reduce damage or injury to soft tissue.

The system architecture shown in FIG. 3 includes audio 214 or video 210 stimulus sources. It should be appreciated that these architectures may be generally applicable to stimuli where audio and video are examples.

FIG. 3 shows that audio stimuli are applied to the user. The audio stimulus may be in the form of music from speakers 214, as shown in FIG. Of course, the user may enjoy listening to his or her favorite playlists and thus hear sounds through the speakers 214 . In addition, however, the signal analyzer 112 may analyze audio signals. Signal analyzer 112 may be, for example, a spectrum analyzer that reports signal magnitude over a range of frequencies.

Many relationships between audio signals and motor responses can be assumed. For example, it can be seen that applying vibration and/or compression to a user's torso via a vest 101 with multiple compression devices 100 can enhance the user's enjoyment of the music. This is especially true when the bass portion of the audio signal maps to the vibration and/or vibration and/or compression behavior of the compression device, or when extreme high frequencies are present in the music.

Both the embodiments shown in FIG. 3 utilize a so-called mapping algorithm unit 116 . This unit can be, for example, a reference (or look-up) table, and for a given output from the signal analyzer 112 the mapping algorithm unit selects one algorithm among many. do. That is, it selects an appropriate response to the results of signal analyzer 112 . Alternatively, mapper 116 can perform much more complex routines based on the results of signal analyzer 112 . For example, the mapping algorithm 116 may be programmed to produce loud perceptible massaging movements that correlate to the overall loudness of the audio signal. The mapping algorithm implements the algorithm as a result of loudness measurements from signal analyzer 112 . If the volume is higher, the mapping algorithm 116 can select a higher rotational speed on the eccentric mass of the motor, so by speeding up the massage speed of the vest 101, a higher rotational speed can be selected. . In this scenario, a mapping algorithm maps the volume of the audio signal to the RPM speed (or rate) of the motor. This mapping concept is also used in FIG. 3, where the audio or video signal is mapped from the intensity profile to the mapping algorithm. In this scenario, the user can perceive an audio or video signal through the vibrating mechanism with or without a combination of sight and sound.
Method

FIG. 5b is a flow chart illustrating the basic components of the control architecture in method format. In Figures 5a and 5b, a first step S501 of the method S500 starting in some physiological state is to interrogate the sensors to measure information indicative of the user's situation or state. There may be. The sensors may, for example, be any or a combination of those listed above, or may be different sensors operating on different information.

In any event, referring to FIGS. 3 and 5b, sensor outputs may be recorded, sorted, and analyzed by computer 110 at step S502. The computer 110 may directly determine the algorithms to apply to the motor, or the computer may send the data to a dedicated analyzer 112 . This analyzer 112 may then send a message to the mapping or decision-making element 116 in step S503 regarding the user's state or situation, such as the user's emotional or physiological state. Mapping or decision-making unit 116 then makes a decision (eg, based on a look-up table) regarding the algorithm to apply to the motors in step S504 and vest 101, depending on the user's situation, as measured by the at least one sensor. It can be carried out. A function or waveform is delivered to the motor in step S505.

In a feedback embodiment, applying tactile sensations (or tactile sensations) from a vibration and/or compression device running an algorithm can poll the sensors again to provide an indication of the user's state as a result of applying the tactile sensations. Any change can be evaluated. Based on the results, computer 110, signal analyzer 112, or mapping element 116 may be updated with new values based on the user's response.

One feature of this method is that the computer, analysis unit, and/or lookup table can be changed based on new sensor results. That is, the system can learn based on the user's success or failure in achieving a goal state. Therefore, from step S505 to step S500, a possible feedback loop is shown in Fig. 5b.

In some alternative embodiments, information regarding environmental conditions may be sensed by sensors in optional step S506. In optional step S507, a set value, predefined value or number of pre-measurements can be entered into the controller. In other embodiments, an external stimulus may be applied at optional step S508. In these embodiments, feedback loops may be implemented as predefined quantities with respect to these setpoints.

In some methods, a diagnostic routine can be applied to the user. The diagnostic routine may run a series of patterns on the vibration generating device and monitor at least one sensor to determine the effect, if any, of the sequence on the user.

Accordingly, the vibration generating device may include a controller that may be programmed to perform a diagnostic sequence of vibrations while monitoring the sensors, then creating a new sequence based on the monitoring of the sensors during the diagnostic sequence, wherein: The new sequence is unique to the user and is learned by its controller based on the diagnostic sequences.

In other embodiments, a stimulus can be applied to the user, as shown in Figure 5b. The stimulus may be, for example, either vibratory or auditory or visual, or the stimulus may be some other sensory. The second stage 112 is the signal analyzer stage, where the frequency content of the stimulus is analyzed. The results of this analysis can then proceed to mapping algorithm stage 116 . Mapping determines the appropriate algorithm for this stimulus analysis. Mapping stage 116 then transmits the selected algorithm to motor controller 40 , which is applied to motor 30 . Motor 30 then imparts tactile sensation to vest 101 and to the user. The effect of this method is to map one type of sensation (e.g., audio or visual) to a tactile sensation applied directly to the user's body using the architecturally deployed vibration and/or compression device 100. . The architecture shown in Fig. 5b is thereby a parallel sensory input mechanism linked to sensations coming through normal sensory channels that can significantly enhance, or at least alter, a user's perception of a stimulus, algorithmically. Become.

Accordingly, the vibration generating device may include input signals 40-48, which are directed to or from the user. The vibration generating device may also include at least one signal analyzer 112 that analyzes the input signal to generate an analyzed signal and a motor drive waveform based on the analyzed signal. , the controller 110 is programmed to use the motor drive waveforms to control at least one of the first motor assembly 100 and the coupled motor pair assembly 100' to generate vibrations based on the input signals. resulting in the system applying vibrations to at least a portion of the user's body based on the input signal. The input signal may be at least one of audio signal 214 and video signal 210, the input signal having spectral content within at least one frequency band.
Use - Meditation

In one embodiment, the device may be used to help the user attain a meditative state. The device of Figures 6a-6d can direct vibrations through the body in patterns that encourage the user's physiology into a state conducive to meditation. In one embodiment, the user sits on the cushion of Figure 6c or clips the device 100 to her ear or wears a headband with the device 100 embedded in Figure 6d. Controller 110 sends signals to motor 100 that impart vibrations to a user sitting on cushion 16 . In one embodiment, the vibration amplitude and frequency may be arbitrary periodic waveforms, but increase sinusoidally with time. The sinusoidal rise and fall wavelengths of the motor vibration vary within the human respiration range of 2-20 breaths per minute. A typical program sequence may start with a typical resting respiratory rate of 15 BPM and then slow down over time. Over time, the user's breathing naturally begins to follow the rising and falling vibrations of the motor(s). As the wavelength of the rising and falling sine waves of motor vibration increases, so does the user's breathing rate. Its vibrations become an unconscious guide to breathing, thus linking the device's control architecture to the autonomic nervous system. In one embodiment, a test sequence is run to determine how much the user can slow their breathing. This respiration rate is then used as the target wavelength for the sinusoidal variation of motor vibration.

In another embodiment, using the control architecture of FIG. 3, sensor 65 detects the person's respiration rate. The control system then adjusts the sine wave wavelength to match the user's breathing, with or without bias. "Bias" may be understood to be a quantity related to the magnitude and direction of the difference between the sensed respiration rate and the target respiration rate. When a bias is applied to lengthen the wavelength of vibration, the user's breathing slows. As the wavelength of the sinusoidal vibration decreases, the user's breathing rate increases.
Use - Music

Specific audible over a specific moving-time window for controlling the vibrational frequency of the stimulator(s) (mechanical, electrical, optical or auditory stimulator) applied to the human body A signal processing method that involves measuring the average energy present in a frequency band.

A particular frequency band, or multiple frequency bands, located within the auditory spectrum (20 Hz-20 kHz) is given an average power signal [A (t)]. This frequency band isolation method can be accomplished through analog or digital methods, including the use of low-pass, high-pass and/or band-pass filters, or through transforms such as Fast Fourier Transforms. Once A[t] is defined, it is used to control the operating frequency of a voltage controlled oscillator (VCO) or the speed of a rotating electric motor. In the VCO application, the VCO would then drive an amplifier to operate an eccentric rotary mass motor that produces haptic impulses in relation to the VCO output. A separate control may be used to modulate the amplitude of the VCO output through the amplifier.

When applied to electric motors, the speed (rotational speed) of the motor is determined by the value of A(t). Typically A(t) can be adjusted to drive the motor via a pulse width modulation (PWM) method, but a linear amplifier can also be used. A lectric motor has an ERM coupled to the shaft, which can result in force fluctuations as the shaft rotates.

In some embodiments, a microcontroller adapted and configured to send motor control signals to the PWM control board can be provided. The PWM control board then sends PWM drive signals to the direct current (or DC) motor controller, which in turn sends PWM drive voltages to the DC motor. The PWM drive signal can be set to a particular fundamental frequency anywhere between 10 Hz and 100 kHz. A particular fundamental frequency is selected based on the type of DC vibration motor used. Here, the optimal fundamental frequency can be a function of motor size, weight, coil resistance and nominal rotational speed. The fundamental frequency can be selected to optimize motor efficiency in terms of power to mechanical output.
mechanical coupling

In another embodiment, system FIG. 7b can be represented as a spring mass damper system. The spin of the eccentric rotating mass creates oscillations in the vertical axis. Placing the device 100 or 100' on a cushion, padded seat or other surface, which can be represented as a spring mass damper, will generate a resonance that is mechanically coupled to the user FIG. 7b. The human body resonates at various frequencies represented in Figure 7a. By matching these frequencies, it is possible to generate mechanical vibrations throughout the body. These mechanical vibrations in the human body are then coupled to other systems such as the skeletal, respiratory, circulatory, nervous, lymphatic and endocrine systems. As an example, Figure 7b shows how the spine can be represented as a spring mass damper system. Vibration of the device 100' in this example causes movement through the spinal column, moving the head up and down. Sweeping through a range of frequencies couples to resonant frequencies throughout the body. The vibration motor assembly 100 or 100' can form a resonant coupling system when coupled to the body as shown in Figure 7a.

The human body acts as a resonant cavity when actuated by a vibrating mass. In embodiments, body resonance can be determined by performing a frequency sweep of the vibration motor. A system consisting of a vibration motor and a sensing accelerometer can be used to obtain these frequencies. A vibration motor acts as an input and transmits mechanical vibrations to the body. In embodiments, accelerometers placed at various locations within the vest to detect body vibrations may be provided. By mapping the input voltage to the motor to the body's frequency response as determined by the accelerometer, the body's resonance can be determined. This resonance information can then be used within the motor routine to augment the body impact of the vibration motor.

A plurality of motor pair assemblies may be placed on the platform and may be placed in locations that are likely to couple into the resonant structure described above. The platform may be at least one of clothing, chairs, mattresses, hats, headbands, earrings and cushions. The platform may be a reclining chair with an elevated foot support and a plurality of motor pair assemblies straddling the body centerline coupled to the user's body through the reclining chair. In some embodiments, the platform may be a cushion with a motor pair assembly that engages the user's body when seated, lying down, or otherwise pressed against the body. .

Adjacent individual inner edges of the plurality of motor pair assemblies may be spaced 0.25 inches to 7 inches from each other. Beat interference patterns can have variable frequencies within a frequency range that overlaps with naturally occurring physiological rhythms. The frequency range is the naturally occurring physiological frequencies, where the naturally occurring physiological frequencies are heart rate (0.5-3 Hz), respiratory rate (0.03-0.3 Hz), blink rate (0 0.05-0.5 Hz), cerebral fluid volume change rate (0.3-0.7 Hz), neuronal activity rate in the brain (0.05-100 Hz), stomach At least one of the gastric activity rate (0.02-0.08 Hz) and harmonics and subharmonics of these naturally occurring physiological frequencies.

The remainder of the present disclosure is directed to methods of more effectively coupling vibrations generated by a vibration generating device into a user's body. In some embodiments shown in Figures 8a-8e, the vibration motor 30 may be coupled to the user's body using an elastomeric material 60, as also shown in Figure 1b. Elastomeric materials may be designed with specific properties to improve the delivery of therapeutic vibrations to the body. The remainder of this discussion is directed to the design, manufacture and implementation of this elastomeric structure.

In FIG. 1b below, vibrating mass motor 30 is coupled to user 19 using elastomeric material 60 . The purpose of the elastomeric material 60 is to control the vibrational coupling of the motor 30 to the user's 19 body. Elastomeric lattices may be designed to be anisotropic, ie by design, one dimension (or dimension/direction) may be more flexible than the other.

Vibration motor 30 is structurally capable of rocking, moving, and rotating in a three-dimensional sense. This motion can be decomposed into in-plane harmonic motion and longitudinal harmonic motion. The longitudinal component or direction is as shown in Figure 8a and the in-plane motion is orthogonal to it. Longitudinal harmonic motion is analogous to vibrations that would be emitted by, for example, a magnetically driven speaker cone. Loudspeakers generate vibrations primarily as percussive longitudinal waves. In contrast, vibration motors also have an in-plane component. In accordance with these definitions, the elastomeric material can be deployed against the body such that the longitudinal component is perpendicular to the skin surface of the body.

Elastomeric lattices can have different responses to in-plane and longitudinal components. In some embodiments, the elastomeric material can have at least twice the stiffness for the longitudinal component as compared to the in-plane component.

In FIG. 1b, the stationary surface 15 may be, for example, a chair, or a floor, or a bed. Any surface that does not vibrate and move appreciably or is mechanically coupled to a stationary member is considered a stationary surface 15 .

In FIG. 1b, the elastomeric material 60 is shown as having a damping mechanism (ie, a “dashpot”) and a spring mechanism, as shown in the following figures. In other words, each elastomeric material has both elastic and inelastic responses to motion. Inelastic portions tend to dampen or inhibit motion, while elastic portions tend to support or enhance motion. The presence of these elastic and inelastic mechanisms results in the elastomer having a mechanical impedance, which describes the elastomer's ability to couple vibrations from the motor 30 to the body 19 .

FIG. 1b is a simplified schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment 140 of the novel system. Similar to the previous figures, embodiment 140 includes vibration motor 30 , stationary rigid surface 15 and user's body 19 . In this embodiment, vibration motor 30 is surrounded by a plurality of elastomeric materials 60, 61 and 62. FIG. However, in addition to additional elastomeric materials 60 and 61 , additional elastomeric materials 63 and 64 are arranged above and below vibration motor 30 . Thus, in this embodiment, the vibration motor is substantially (or essentially/essentially) surrounded, enclosed, or encased by the elastomeric material 60 .

It should be understood that these embodiments are exemplary only and that other arrangements of elastomeric material 60 about vibration motor 30 relative to user 19 can be envisioned. More or less elastomer placements may be envisioned. The scope of the invention should be understood to include all such embodiments.

8a-8e show exemplary constructions of elastomeric material 60. FIG. In this embodiment, elastomeric material 60 substantially surrounds vibration motor 30 . The elastomeric material 60 shown in Figures 8a and 8e has square or rectangular cells, ie open cavities within the elastomeric material, each defined by a rectangular peripheral wall. These cells generally have one longer vertical axis, as shown at 601 and 602 in Figure 8e. The vertical axis is labeled "height h" in Figures 8a-8e. The cell can also have a characteristic width w, which represents the open-faced dimension of the cell, and a cell wall thickness t.

If the cell structure is square, the mechanical properties of this elastomeric material may be substantially isotropic. However, in many embodiments anisotropic behavior is desirable. To create asymmetry, cells or voids (or voids/voids) can have one dimension longer than another. An open void may have a characteristic lateral dimension W (defined above) representing the span of an open cell that is less than its length or height h.

Thus, the cells can define columns with one stiffness in the in-plane transverse direction that is much lower than the stiffness in the longitudinal direction. In-plane motion involves bending moments in the beams defining the walls of the column, while longitudinal stiffness involves compression of the column wall material. In some embodiments, the longitudinal stiffness is at least 1.5 times the transverse stiffness. The "aspect ratio" of an elastomeric structure can be defined as the cell height h divided by the cell wall thickness t. This aspect ratio may be in the range

The motivation for choosing a range of cell sizes for the elastomeric structure gives the motor vibrations to interact with the mammal's resonant frequencies. Elastomeric structures have been shown experimentally to surprisingly greatly enhance the transmission of vibrations to mammalian resonant structures when their properties are tuned within the ranges described above.

FIG. 8 is a plan view showing the cellular structure of an exemplary elastomeric material 60. FIG. In FIG. 8b, the cell structure is a honeycomb, a closed packed hexagonal cell array. Figure 8c shows a square or rectangular cell structure, each cell defined by a square opening in the elastomeric material. FIG. 8d shows a triangular cell structure with each cell containing a triangular shape. In each case, in Figures 8b, c, d, the elastomeric material has a cellular structure with differently shaped cells surrounded by walls of the elastomeric material. The detailed kinematics and material properties of these elastomeric materials can be defined by selection of cell shape, wall thickness, ratio of structure to closed structure.

This elastomeric material can have a structure selected for its stiffness properties. For example, silicone or polydimethylsiloxane, urethane rubber or some other type of rubber may be suitable materials for construction of elastomeric material 60 .

Elastomeric structures can be manufactured by injection molding or injection molding. That is, a mold is formed and silicone rubber is injected into the mold to form the structure. The motor 30 may be embedded on all sides by a honeycomb elastomeric structure. As previously mentioned, the motor may be enclosed in a plastic casing and then encapsulated within the elastomeric structure 60 .

Accordingly, the vibration generating device can be held within the elastomeric material 60 . The elastomeric material (60) can have a height (h) and width (w) and wall thickness (t) and an aspect ratio (height/thickness) of 1.5 to 50, such that the elastomeric material has a higher stiffness in the direction along its height (h), and this direction of stiffness is positioned orthogonal to the user's body, directionally focusing the momentum of the motor in this orthogonal direction. (or focused). Indeed, an elastomeric material can have cells with a longitudinal axis and cell walls with a thickness such that at least some of the cells have an aspect ratio greater than 1.5:1 (longitudinal axis /wall thickness), with the vertical axis orthogonal to the user's surface.

In some embodiments, the elastomeric material can have a structure of arranged cells, wherein the cells define a plane and a longitudinal direction orthogonal to the plane and parallel to the longitudinal axis, the cell structure comprising , is more flexible in the plane compared to the orthogonal longitudinal direction, at least some of the cells in the cell structure have a characteristic dimension w of about 1 cm, and at least some of the cells have a width of about 1-5 mm. It has walls with a thickness. In other embodiments, the elastomeric material can have a honeycomb structure of cells arranged in close-packed hexagons, the cells defining a plane and a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the plane. However, the honeycomb elastomeric structure is more flexible in the plane compared to the orthogonal longitudinal direction, with the cells having a characteristic dimension of about 1 cm and the cell walls having a thickness of about 1-5 mm. , which has been found to couple mechanical vibrations of the motor assembly to naturally occurring mammalian resonant structures.

The selection of height, cell width and cell wall thickness generally depends on the details of the application. In some embodiments, the height, width and thickness are such that the vibration of the elastomer coupled to the motor (30) is effectively coupled into a mammalian resonant structure which in turn naturally produces mechanical vibrations of the motor assembly. can be selected to obtain The range specified above can result in vibrations in the range of 5-100 Hz, thus overlapping many of the resonant modes shown in FIG. 7a.

In addition to assisting in coupling to body resonance (or body resonance), elastomeric materials also offer several additional and unexpected benefits, including:
1 Resting on a flexible (or compliant) matrix makes the motor more comfortable because the user is not abrading (or not abrading) the rigid motor. Instead, the motors can follow the contours of the body, and the elastomer between the motors helps support the body comfortably.
2 The flexible material on the other side of the motor allows the motor to move to create a Swedish massage-style chopping effect.
3. The whole system is much quieter because the motor does not move against anything rigid or noise-producing (like a strap or taut membrane).
4 Elastomers between the body and the motor dampen the impact of the motor, resulting in a greater momentum transfer that can be felt at lower comfortable frequencies Using larger motors with greater eccentric weights will be able to

Elastomeric materials are readily constructed, for example, from silicone injected into a mold, as is well known in the art.

Although various details have been described in connection with the exemplary embodiments outlined above, various alternatives, modifications that are known or may be presently unanticipated or unanticipated. , variations, modifications, and/or substantial equivalents may become apparent from a review of the foregoing disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary implementations set forth above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting.

Claims (15)

at least one motor comprising a first motor (30), a drive shaft (31) driven by said first motor (30), and at least one asymmetric mass (20) coupled to said drive shaft (31) A first motor assembly (100), wherein said asymmetric mass is rotated from its center to produce a vibration having a frequency and amplitude when said asymmetric mass is rotated by said first motor (30). the at least one first motor assembly coupled to the drive shaft at an offset point;
at least one sensor (65, 70 and 75) for measuring quantity;
a controller (110), further characterized in that said controller (110) adjusts at least one of said frequency and amplitude of said vibration based on said measured quantity;
A vibration generating device for applying vibrations to a user's body, comprising: The first motor assembly further includes:
at least one second motor (32) rotating at a second frequency with at least one second asymmetric mass (22) coupled to a second drive shaft (33); A motor (32) is mechanically coupled to said first motor (30) to define at least one motor pair assembly (100'), said motor pair assembly (100') comprising first and second 2. A vibration generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that it generates beat interference vibrations based on two said frequencies, said beat interference pattern having characteristic frequencies and amplitudes defining therapeutic vibrations. wherein said vibration is regulated by said controller to interact with a naturally occurring mammalian physiological rhythm, said naturally occurring mammalian physiological rhythm comprising: heart rate, respiration rate, heart rate variability, respiration Number fluctuation, blink, sleep cycle, circadian rhythm, cortisol concentration rhythm, electroencephalogram rhythm, electrogastrogram rhythm, left ventricular contractile rhythm, vocal cord formant resonance, core body temperature rhythm, eccrine activity rhythm, blood oxygen rhythm, blood pressure rhythm, blood 3. The vibration generating device of claim 1 or 2, which is at least one of rhythm, blood acceleration and blood velocity. The at least one first motor assembly is coupled to a naturally occurring mammalian resonant structure that resonates at a characteristic frequency such that the motor and the naturally occurring mammalian resonant structure form a resonant coupling system. A vibration generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that. Vibration generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vibration generating device further comprises an antenna (103) for wireless data transmission and reception and is thus configurable to be wirelessly monitored or regulated. Said at least one first coupled motor pair assembly or said at least one first motor assembly is disposed on a platform, said platform comprising a garment (101), a chair (12), a mattress (14), 3. A vibration generating device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least one of a hat, a headband, earrings (18), an eye mask, straps, a recliner (12), a floor and a cushion (16). Said at least one sensor (65, 70 and 75) is characterized in that it senses at least one information, said at least one information being at least one of physical, psychological, emotional and environmental conditions of the body. 5. The vibration generating device of any of claims 1-4, wherein at least one of the frequency, amplitude and timing of successive pulses of said vibration is based on said at least one piece of information. further comprising a mapping unit (116) for relating the measured quantities sensed by the sensors (65, 70 and 75) to an algorithm for generating a motor drive waveform for driving the vibration generating device based on at least one piece of information; A vibration generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The controller (110) controls the at least one first motor assembly (100) and coupled motor pair assembly (100') and executes an algorithm (116) defined by a series of oscillations. 9. The vibration generating device of any of claims 1-8, wherein said algorithm and sequence of vibrations are selected based on measurements of said at least one sensor (65, 70 and 75). The information includes acceleration, rotational speed, heart rate (HR), electrodermal activity (EDA), heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP), blood acceleration, evoked response, skin temperature, core body temperature, impedance electrocardiogram, electrical bio impedance, respiratory rate variability (BRV), blinking, blood oxygenation (SpO2), respiratory effort (RE), electroencephalography (EEG), pili muscle activity, cortisol levels, circadian rhythm, startle response, electrooculography (EOG), Reaction time, pupil diameter, ocular saccade activity (macro/micro), body position, skin potential (SP), electromyogram (EMG), pre-ejection time (PEP), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output at least one of volume (CO), left ventricular ejection time (LVET), isovolumetric contraction time (IVCT), left ventricular contractility, vascular resistance (VR), brain functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) 8. The vibration generating device of claim 7, based on The controller is programmed to run a diagnostic sequence of vibrations while monitoring the sensor, and then create a new sequence based on the monitoring of the sensor during the diagnostic sequence, the new sequence being generated by the user. , and the new sequence is learned by the controller based on the diagnostic sequence. an input signal (40-48), the input signal being directed to or from a user;
further comprising at least one signal analyzer (112) that analyzes the input signal to generate an analyzed signal and a motor drive waveform based on the analyzed signal;
The controller (110) uses the motor drive waveforms to control at least one of the first motor assembly (100) and the coupled motor pair assembly (100'); 12. Any of claims 1-11, wherein the system is programmed to generate the vibration based on a signal and apply the vibration to at least part of the user's body based on the input signal. vibration generating device. 13. The vibration generator of claim 12, wherein said input signal comprises at least one of an audio signal (214) and a video signal (210), said input signal having spectral content within at least one frequency band. device. The vibration generating device is held within an elastomeric material (60), the elastomeric material having a cellular structure with cells having longitudinal axes and cell walls having a thickness, such that at least 14. A vibration generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein a portion has an aspect ratio (longitudinal axis/wall thickness) greater than 1.5:1, said longitudinal axis being perpendicular to said user's surface. said cells defining a plane and a longitudinal direction perpendicular to said plane and parallel to said longitudinal axis, said cell structure being more flexible in said plane compared to the orthogonal longitudinal direction, said cell structure 15. The vibration generating device of claim 14, wherein at least some of the cells within have a characteristic dimension w of about 1 cm, and at least some of the cells have walls having a thickness of about 1-5 mm. .

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