KR20220005080A - Percussive Therapy Device with Active Control - Google Patents

Abstract

The percussive therapy device includes a housing, a power source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a routine controller, the routine controller configured to apply at least one output of the percussive therapy device in response to a user input initiating a protocol, and initiating at least one step of the protocol to which the percussive therapy device is applied according to the at least one output.

Description

Percussive Therapy Device with Active Control

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/844,424, filed on May 7, 2019, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/899,098, filed on September 11, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62, filed on October 8, 2019 It is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/796,143, filed on February 20, 2020, claiming the benefit of /912,392. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16/675,772, filed on November 6, 2019, which also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/785,151, filed December 26, 2018. All applications listed above are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

field of invention

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to massage devices, and more particularly to percussive therapy devices that provide reciprocating motion.

Massage devices often provide ineffective massage that is superficial and provides no real benefit. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved massage device. Moreover, percussive massage devices are often used in an ineffective manner. Accordingly, there is a need to automate percussive therapy devices to provide effective massage or recovery.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a percussive therapy or percussive massage device comprising a housing, a power source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a routine controller, wherein the routine controller responds to a user input. in response, initiate a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the percussive therapy device, and initiate at least one step of the protocol to which the percussive therapy device is applied according to the at least one output. It will be understood that the terms percussive massage device and percussive therapy device are used interchangeably throughout. These terms are synonymous and generally have the same meaning. Commercial embodiments of Applicants' devices are generally referred to in the marketplace as percussive therapy devices and hence the term is used herein.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one output is the period of time during which the percussive therapy device is activated (either automatically or by the user's turn on and off via a prompt), the rate at which the percussive therapy device is activated (either automatically or by the user via a prompt). speed of the attachment of the percussive therapy device (by switching from one to another), the force applied by the attachment (by the user using the device), the amplitude of the attachment, and the temperature of the attachment.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive therapy device comprises a force meter configured to monitor and display the force applied by the attachment of the percussive therapy device. A display of the force is provided to the user and configured such that the user may adjust the force to correspond to a target force (which may be defined to include a target force range) to be applied during at least one step of the protocol.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive therapy device comprises or is configured to communicate with an application (software application or app) configured to provide a user interface (eg, on a user mobile device such as a phone or tablet). Preferably, the percussive therapy device comprises a touch screen configured to or not to provide a user interface. In a preferred embodiment, the user (eg, visually, auditory or tactile via an app; ) to use the designated phages of the percussive therapy device.

In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted (eg, visually, aurally or tactilely) to apply the attachment of the percussive therapy device to a designated body part. Preferably, the user is prompted (eg, visually, aurally or tactilely) to set the arm position of the percussive therapy device. In percussive therapy, generally the user is prompted to apply at least one output via at least one of haptic feedback, sound, visual representation (eg, drawing, graphic, etc.) and text during at least one step. In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted (eg, visually, aurally or tactilely) to move the attachment from a starting point to an endpoint on a designated body part during at least one step of the protocol.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of executing a routine for a percussive therapy device is provided. The method includes initiating a protocol configured to apply at least one output of a percussive therapy device in response to a user input; and executing at least one step of the protocol to which the percussive therapy device is applied according to the at least one output. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one output is a specified period of time during which the percussive therapy device is activated (either automatically or by the user), the speed of the attachment of the percussive therapy device, the force of the attachment, the amplitude of the attachment, the type of attachment, and at least one of a temperature of the attachment, an arm position of the percussive therapy device, and a gripping of the percussive therapy device.

In a preferred embodiment, the method includes monitoring a force applied by an attachment of a percussive therapy device; and displaying the force to the user. Preferably, the force is configured to be displayed to the user so that the user may adjust the force to correspond to a target force (which may be a range) predetermined by at least one step of the protocol. Preferably, the user is prompted to apply one or more of the at least one output during at least one step of the protocol. In a preferred embodiment, the user input initiates the protocol via at least one of an application interface and a touchscreen. In a preferred embodiment, the protocol is configured to provide a therapeutic effect to one or more body parts of the user.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of executing a routine for a percussive therapy device is provided, comprising: initiating a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the percussive therapy device in response to a user input and at least one and initiating at least one step of a protocol to which the percussive therapy device is applied according to the output of the . The at least one output includes a period during which the percussive therapy device has been activated, a velocity of an attachment of the percussive therapy device, an amplitude of the attachment, a force applied by the attachment, and a temperature applied by the attachment. The percussive therapy device uses the designated grip of the percussive therapy device and provides a prompt to apply an attachment to a designated body part when initiating a protocol, monitors the measured force applied by the attachment, and transmits the measured force to the user. and wherein the measured force is configured to be displayed to the user such that the user may adjust the applied force to correspond to a target force predetermined by at least one step of the protocol.

In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted to set the arm position of the percussive therapy device, and/or the user is prompted to apply an attachment to a new designated body part during at least one step of the protocol, and/or the user is prompted to apply the attachment to a new designated body part during at least one step of the protocol. is prompted to attach a new attachment to the percussive therapy device during at least one step of, and/or the user moves the attachment from a predetermined one point on the body part to a second predetermined body part during at least one step of the protocol prompted to do

According to another aspect of the present invention, a percussive comprising a housing, a power source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. A therapy device is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the housing includes first, second and third handle portions and a head portion cooperating to define a handle opening. The first handle portion defines a first axis, the second handle portion defines a second axis, the third handle portion defines a third axis, and the first, second and third axes cooperate to form a triangle. The motor is located in the head portion of the housing, and at least a portion of the push rod assembly extends outside the head portion. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion is generally straight, the second handle portion is generally straight, and the third handle portion is generally straight.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive therapy device comprises a wirelessly connected device (eg, Bluetooth, etc.) for connecting to a remote device. By remote is meant any device separate from the percussive therapy device. The device does not have to be far away to be remote. Preferably, the power source is an optional rechargeable battery, and the percussive massage device further comprises an optional wireless charging receiver in electrical communication with the battery. Preferably, the percussive therapy device comprises an optional touch screen.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is a brushless motor, the motor mount is located in the housing, the motor is fixed to the motor mount, and the motor mount is fixed to the housing. Preferably, the motor mount includes first and second sidewalls therebetween defining the interior of the motor mount. The motor is secured to the first sidewall and the second sidewall is secured to the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the motor includes a motor shaft extending into the motor mount through a protruding opening defined in a first sidewall of the motor mount, and at least a portion of the push rod assembly is located within the motor mount.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive therapy device comprises an attachment connected to a distal end of the push rod assembly, and applying the attachment to a first body part for a first period along a first treatment path and for a second period along a second treatment path. and a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide a user instruction to apply the attachment to the first or second body part. Preferably, the user commands are provided via a touchscreen of the percussive therapy device or on an application of a remote electronic device. In a preferred embodiment, the percussive therapy device comprises an attachment connected to a distal end of the push rod assembly, and applying the attachment to a first body part for a first period of time and applying the attachment to the first or second body part for a second period of time. and a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide user instructions for The routine controller is configured to reciprocate the attachment at a first speed during a first time period and at a second speed during a second time period.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive therapy device comprises a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol for activating the motor for at least a first period and a subsequent second period of time. During the first time period, the routine controller comprises at least one of treating the first body part, moving the attachment along the first treatment path, and connecting the first attachment to the distal end of the push rod assembly. configured to provide a first user instruction to perform a first task, wherein during a second time period the routine controller is configured to treat the second body part, move the attachment along the second treatment path, and and provide a second user instruction to perform a second task comprising at least one of connecting a second attachment to the distal end. The first user instructions may also include instructions regarding gripping one of the first, second or third handle portions, wherein the second user instructions may also include the same portion of the first, second or third handle portions or It may also include instructions for gripping other parts. Preferably, the first and second user commands are provided via a touchscreen of the percussive therapy device or on an application of a remote electronic device. The first user command may also include instructions about applying a first target force (based on a reading by the force meter), and the second user command may include a command about applying a first target force (based on the reading by the force meter) to the first target (based on the reading by the force meter). It may also include instructions regarding applying a force or a second target force.

In a preferred embodiment, the power source is a battery located in the second handle portion and a wireless charging receiver in electrical communication with the battery is located in the third handle portion.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a housing comprising first, second and third handle portions cooperating to define a handle opening, a power source, a motor located within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and operable on the motor A method of using a percussive massage device is provided, the method comprising obtaining a percussive massage device that is tightly coupled and includes a push rod assembly configured to reciprocate in response to activation of a motor. The method includes activating the motor using the switch, gripping the first handle portion, massaging the first body portion, alternatively gripping the second handle portion and massaging the first body portion, and alternatively and holding the third handle portion with the aid of a massager and massaging the first body part. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion defines a first axis, the second handle portion defines a second axis, and the third handle portion defines a third axis, wherein the first, second and third axes cooperate to form a triangle . In a preferred embodiment, the method also comprises gripping the second handle portion, massaging the second body portion, gripping the third handle portion, and massaging the third body portion.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a percussive comprising a housing, a power source, a motor positioned within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. A massage device is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the housing comprises first, second and third handle portions cooperating to define a handle opening, the first handle portion defining a first axis, the second handle portion defining a second axis, and a third The handle portion defines a third axis, wherein the first, second and third axes cooperate to form a triangle.

Preferably, the first handle portion includes an inner edge of the first handle portion and defines a first handle portion length, wherein the first handle portion length is at least a portion of three fingers when the user grips the first handle portion by hand. is long enough to extend through the handle opening and contact the inner edge of the first handle portion. Preferably, the second handle portion includes an inner edge of the second handle portion and defines a second handle portion length, wherein the second handle portion length is at least a portion of three fingers when the user grips the second handle portion by hand. is long enough to extend through the handle opening and contact the inner edge of the second handle portion. Preferably, the third handle portion includes an inner edge of the third handle portion and defines a third handle portion length, wherein the third handle portion length is at least a portion of three fingers when the user grips the third handle portion by hand. is long enough to extend through the handle opening and contact the inner edge of the third handle portion. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion is generally straight, the second handle portion is generally straight, and the third handle portion is generally straight. By generally straight it is meant that the majority of the handle portions are straight, but may include rounded edges or corners where different handle portions meet or where the handle portions meet bulges or finger protrusions or the like.

In a preferred embodiment, the switch includes switch electronics associated therewith, the power source is a battery housed in the second handle section and the switch electronics are housed in the first handle section. Preferably, the motor is configured to rotate a pinion shaft having a pinion gear about an axis of rotation of the shaft. The housing includes a gear member disposed therein that is operatively engaged with the pinion gear and rotates about an axis of rotation of the gear. The push rod assembly is operatively connected to the gear member, and rotational motion of the pinion shaft is converted into reciprocating motion of the push rod assembly through engagement of the pinion gear and the gear member. The motor includes a motor shaft extending outwardly therefrom and a pinion coupling assembly is positioned between the motor shaft and the pinion shaft. The pinion coupling includes a lower connector operatively connected to the motor shaft, an upper connector operatively connected to the pinion shaft, and a cross coupling positioned between the lower connector and the upper connector. In a preferred embodiment, the lower connector includes a body portion defining a central opening for receiving the motor shaft and first and second lower connector arms extending outwardly from the body portion, the upper connector including the central opening for receiving the pinion shaft a body portion defining a body portion and first and second upper connector arms extending outwardly from the body portion, the cross coupling including radially extending ribs; and the second upper connector member operatively engages the radially extending rib. Preferably, the lower and upper connectors comprise plastic and the cross coupling comprises elastomer.

In a preferred embodiment, the gear member is arranged in a rotating housing rotatable between at least a first position and a second position. A gearbox housing for receiving the gear member is disposed within the rotating housing. The gearbox housing includes a gap slot having first and second ends defined therein. The push rod assembly extends through the gap slot such that when the rotating housing is rotated from the first position to the second position, the push rod assembly moves within the gap slot from a proximal first end to an adjacent second end. .

In a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly includes a first rod portion having a proximal end and a distal end and a second rod portion having a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the first rod portion is operatively connected to the motor. An adapter assembly is positioned between the first and second rod portions. The adapter assembly causes the first rod portion to pivot relative to the second rod portion. Preferably, the adapter assembly includes an adapter member including a pocket for receiving therein a distal end of the first rod portion. A pivot pin spans the pocket and extends through the distal end of the first rod portion. In a preferred embodiment, the adapter member includes a protrusion received at the proximal end of the second rod portion.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a housing, an electrical input, a motor, an electrical input, and a switch configured to be in electrical communication with the motor and selectively provide power from the electrical input to the motor, operatively connected to the motor and responsive to activation of the motor. A massage device is provided that includes a driven output configured to reciprocate by using a massager, and a treatment structure operatively coupled to a distal end of the driven output. The driven output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of about 15 Hz to about 100 Hz and an amplitude of about 0.15 to about 1.0 inches. The combination of amplitude and frequency provides for efficient reciprocation of the treatment structure such that the treatment structure provides a therapeutically beneficial treatment to the targeted muscle of the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the driven output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of about 25 Hz to about 48 Hz and an amplitude of about 0.23 to about 0.70 inches. In another preferred embodiment, the driven output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of about 33 Hz to about 42 Hz and an amplitude of about 0.35 to about 0.65 inches.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a percussive massage device having a force meter comprising a housing, a power source, a motor positioned in the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a controller, wherein the controller obtains a voltage of the motor and , generate a look-up table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device, and display the force magnitude corresponding to the obtained voltage using the look-up table. In a preferred embodiment, the look-up table determines the maximum magnitude of a force configured to be applied by the percussive massage device, determines the maximum magnitude of the voltage configured to be applied to the percussive massage device from the power source, and determines the maximum magnitude of the force to be equal to the force It is created by dividing by the increment and dividing the maximum magnitude of the voltage by the same voltage increment. The same number of force increments equals the same number of voltage increments. Preferably, the percussive massage device comprises a battery pack and a display configured to indicate an amount of force applied by the percussive massage device. In a preferred embodiment, the display comprises a series of LEDs. In a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device comprises an organic light emitting diode screen.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. Preferably, the percussive massage device comprises a voltage sense resistor electrically coupled to the BLDC motor and the controller.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for obtaining a voltage of a motor of a percussive massage device, generating a look-up table correlating the voltage with respect to a force applied by the percussive massage device, and using the look-up table. A method of displaying a force of a percussive massage device is provided comprising the step of displaying a force magnitude corresponding to a voltage. In a preferred embodiment, the lookup table correlating voltage and force is linear. Preferably, the look-up table determines a maximum magnitude of a force configured to be applied by the percussive massage device, determines a maximum magnitude of a voltage configured to be applied to the percussive massage device from a power source, and determines the maximum magnitude of the force in equal force increments , produced by dividing the maximum magnitude of the voltage by the same voltage increment, the number of equal force increments equals the same number of voltage increments.

In a preferred embodiment, the method includes: obtaining a maximum power supply voltage of the percussive massage device; setting the maximum supply voltage to the maximum magnitude of the voltage; dividing the maximum magnitude of the voltage by equal voltage increments, wherein the same number of force increments and the same number of voltage increments are equal; generating an updated look-up table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the voltage range determined by the maximum power supply voltage, and using the updated look-up table the corrected force magnitude corresponding to the power supply voltage and displaying In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: obtaining at least two power supply voltages each corresponding to a magnitude of a force, the magnitude of the force being determined from the displayed magnitude of the force; measuring the magnitude of the force applied by the percussive massage device using an external force meter for each of the at least two power supply voltages and correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the measured magnitude of the force and generating an updated lookup table.

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises displaying a calibrated force magnitude corresponding to the measured force magnitude using the updated look-up table. Preferably, the look-up table is updated for each magnitude of force that can be displayed on the percussive massage device.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for displaying the force of a percussive massage device, comprising the steps of: obtaining a current magnitude of a battery pack of the percussive massage device; acquiring a voltage magnitude of the battery pack; determining the magnitude of the power using the magnitude of the current and magnitude of the voltage of and displaying the magnitude of the force. In a preferred embodiment, the force magnitude is displayed using a series of LEDs that are activated in response to the force magnitude. Preferably, the lookup table determines the maximum amount of power to be input to the percussive massage device, determines the minimum amount of power of the percussive massage device when no load is applied to the percussive massage device, and from the power source to the percussive massage device is generated by determining the maximum force magnitude configured to be applied to the , dividing the maximum power magnitude by the equal power increment, and dividing the maximum force magnitude by the same force increment. The number of equal power increments is equal to the number of equal force increments. Preferably, the maximum power magnitude is the maximum active power magnitude derived from the total active power.

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises determining at least two power magnitudes using current and voltage measurements of the battery pack, each corresponding to the magnitude of the force. The magnitude of the force is determined from the displayed force magnitude. measuring the magnitude of the force applied by the percussive massage device using an external force meter for each of the at least two power magnitudes, and correlating the power to the force applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the measured magnitude of force. Create an updated lookup table. In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises displaying a calibrated force magnitude corresponding to the measured force magnitude using the updated look-up table. Preferably, the look-up table is updated for each magnitude of force that can be displayed on the percussive massage device.

It will be appreciated that the features of the invention described herein may be used with any type of percussive massage device. For example, the force meter and other features taught herein may be used with the percussive massage device disclosed in US Patent No. 10,357,425 ("'425 Patent"), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. .

In one embodiment, the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to obtain a voltage of a motor of the percussive massage device, and Generate a lookup table correlating the voltage to the applied force, and use the lookup table to display the force magnitude corresponding to the obtained voltage.

In a preferred embodiment, the look-up table determines the maximum magnitude of a force configured to be applied by the percussive massage device, determines the maximum magnitude of the voltage configured to be applied to the percussive massage device from the power source, and determines the maximum magnitude of the force to be equal to the force It is created by dividing by the increment and dividing the maximum magnitude of the voltage by the same voltage increment. In one embodiment, the same number of force increments and the same number of voltage increments are equal.

In another embodiment, the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to obtain a maximum power supply voltage of the percussive massage device, and convert the maximum power supply voltage to a value of the voltage. set to be the maximum magnitude, divide the maximum magnitude of the voltage by equal voltage increments, generate an updated lookup table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the voltage range determined by the maximum supply voltage, and , use the updated lookup table to display the calibrated force magnitude corresponding to the supply voltage.

In another embodiment, the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: acquiring a power supply voltage, and measuring a magnitude of a force applied by the percussive massage device using an external force meter for each of the at least two power supply voltages; generate an updated lookup table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the magnitude of the measured force.

In one embodiment, the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to obtain a current magnitude of the battery pack of the percussive massage device, and to obtain a voltage of the battery pack. Obtain the magnitude, determine the power magnitude using the current magnitude and voltage magnitude of the battery pack, generate a lookup table correlating the power magnitude to the force magnitude applied by the percussive massage device, and obtain using the lookup table Display the force magnitude corresponding to the applied power magnitude.

In one embodiment, the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to cause a battery pack each corresponding to a magnitude of force determined from a displayed magnitude of force. determine at least two power magnitudes using the current and voltage measurements of generate an updated lookup table correlating power to the force applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to

In a preferred embodiment, the motor, in one embodiment, converts power from a power source into motion. In some embodiments, the motor is an electric motor. Electric motors are known in the art including, but not limited to, brush motors, brushless motors, direct current (DC) motors, alternating current (AC) motors, mechanical-commutator motors, electronic commutator motors, or external commutation motors. It may be any type of electric motor.

In some embodiments, the driven output or output shaft reciprocates at a rate of approximately 65 Hz. The driven output, in some embodiments, reciprocates at a rate greater than 50 Hz. The reciprocating treatment device, in some embodiments, provides reciprocation at a rate ranging from 50 Hz to 80 Hz. In some embodiments, the driven output has a maximum articulation rate between 50 Hz and 80 Hz. In another embodiment, the driven output has a refractive rate between 30 Hz and 80 Hz. In a particular embodiment, the driven output has a refractive rate of approximately 37 Hz. In one embodiment, the driven output has a refractive rate of approximately 60 Hz. In a preferred embodiment, the driven output deflects or reciprocates at a frequency of about 15 Hz to about 100 Hz. In a more preferred embodiment, the driven output deflects or reciprocates at a frequency of about 25 Hz to about 48 Hz. In a most preferred embodiment, the driven output deflects or reciprocates at a frequency of about 33 Hz to about 42 Hz. Any selected range within the specified range is within the scope of the present invention.

The driven output may move through a predetermined reciprocating range. For example, the driven output may be configured to have an amplitude of 1/2 inch. In another embodiment, the driven output may be configured to have an amplitude of 1/4 inch. As may be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the driven output may be configured to have any amplitude deemed therapeutically beneficial.

In some embodiments, the driven output may be adjustable through a variable range of reciprocation. For example, the reciprocating treatment device may include an input for adjusting the reciprocating amplitude from a range of 1/4 inch up to 1 inch. In a preferred embodiment, the driven output travels through an amplitude of about 0.15 inches to about 1.0 inches. In a more preferred embodiment, the driven output deflects or reciprocates at a frequency of about 0.23 inches to about 0.70 inches. In a most preferred embodiment, the driven output deflects or reciprocates at a frequency of about 0.35 inches to about 0.65 inches. Any selected range within the specified range is within the scope of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that the device operates most effectively within a combined frequency and amplitude range. In developing the present invention, the inventors have determined that if frequencies and amplitudes exceed the above-mentioned ranges, the device may cause pain, and if below the ranges, the device is ineffective and does not provide effective therapeutic relief or massage. Only when the device operates within the disclosed combinations of frequency and amplitude ranges provides an effective and therapeutically beneficial treatment to the muscles targeted by the device.

In certain embodiments, the reciprocating therapy device includes one or more components for adjusting the rate of refraction of the driven output in response to various levels of power provided from the power input. For example, the reciprocating therapy device may include a voltage regulator (not shown) to provide a substantially constant voltage to the motor over a range of input voltages. In other embodiments, the current provided to the motor may be regulated. In some embodiments, operation of the reciprocating treatment device may be limited in response to the input voltage being less than a preset value.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device comprises a brushless motor. It will be appreciated that brushless motors do not contain any gears and are quieter than geared motors.

The device includes a push rod or shaft directly connected to a motor by a pin. In a preferred embodiment, the push rod is L-shaped or comprises an arc shape. Preferably, the point at which the push rod connects to the pin is offset from the reciprocating path along which the distal end 40 of the push rod (and massage attachment) travels. This function is provided by an arc or L-shape. It should be understood that push rods are designed to transmit forces diagonally instead of vertically, so that the motor can be positioned at or near the center of the device, otherwise it will need a spur to keep the shaft centered, in which case the motor will offset from it (and positioned within the projection). The arc also allows the push rod to have a close clearance with the motor and the outer housing to be smaller than similar prior art devices, thus forming the device with a lower profile. Preferably, two bearings are included at the proximal end of the push rod, which are connected to the motor to counteract the diagonal force and prevent the push rod from moving and contacting the motor.

In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a touch screen for stopping, starting, activating, and the like. The touch screen may also include other functions. Preferably, the device includes a thumbwheel or rolling button located near the touchscreen/on-off button to allow the user to scroll or navigate through various functions. Preferably, the device also comprises a variable amplitude or stroke. For example, the stroke may vary or vary between about 8-16 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the device may be associated with and operated by an app or software running on a mobile device such as a phone, watch or tablet (or any computer). Apps can connect to the device via Bluetooth or other connection protocols. An app may have any or all of the following features: Moreover, any of the functions described herein may be added to the touchscreen/scroll wheel or button(s) function directly on the device. If the user is walking or positioned too far from the device, the device will not work or activate. Devices can be turned on and off using apps as well as touchscreens or buttons on the device. The app can control variable speed (eg any speed between 1750-3000 RPM). A timer that causes the device to stop after a predetermined period of time. The app may also include various treatment protocols associated therewith. This will allow the user to select the protocol or body region they want to act on. When the start of the protocol is selected, the device will run through the routine. For example, the device may run at a first RPM for a first period and then at a second RPM for a second period and/or run at a first amplitude for a first period and then at a second amplitude for a second period. may be executed. The routine may also include a prompt (eg, haptic feedback) to inform the user to move to a new body part. Such routines or treatments may relate to recovery, increased blood flow, performance, etc., and may each include pre-programmed routines. The routine may also prompt or instruct the user to switch positions of the treatment structures (AmpBITS) or arms or rotating heads. The prompt may include a sound, haptic feedback (eg, vibration of the device or mobile device), a text command from an app or a touch screen, and the like. For example, the app may instruct the user to start with the ball treatment structure with the arm in position 2. Thereafter, the user presses start and the device runs at the first frequency for a predetermined amount of time. The app or device then prompts the user to start the next step of the routine and instructs the user to change to the cone treatment structure and place the arm in position 1. When the user presses restart, the device runs at the second frequency for a predetermined amount of time.

In a preferred embodiment, the app has a near-field communication ("NFC") function that allows the user's mobile device with the app to scan an identifier such as a barcode or QR code that prompts the app to display certain information, such as the routine described above. or other functions. During use, the user will be able to tap or place (or scan a QR code) their mobile device in the vicinity of the gym equipment's NFC tag, and the app will present commands, content or lessons tailored to use the device with that equipment. something to do. For example, on a treadmill, the user scans a QR code or NFC tag, and the app recognizes that the user is trying to use the treadmill. The app can then provide instructions on how to use the device with the treadmill and initiate a pre-programmed routine for using the treadmill. For example, the user may be instructed to start in the left quad. Then, after a predetermined period of time (eg, 15 seconds), the device or mobile device comprising the app software vibrates or provides other haptic feedback. The user then switches to its left quad and after a predetermined period of time the device vibrates again. After that, the user can start using the treadmill. Any routine is within the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, the device and/or app (ie, the mobile device comprising the app) may also communicate (via Bluetooth, etc.) with the gym equipment (eg, a treadmill).

The device may also include a torque or force meter so that the user knows how much force they are applying. The display associated with the force meter shows how much force is being applied to the muscle. Force meters enable more accurate and effective treatment. The device includes a torque measuring sensor and a display. The force that must be applied changes depending on the muscle the device is used for and the benefit the user is trying to achieve (prepare, perform, recover). By having a torque sensor, the user can receive more accurate and personalized treatment. Apps and touchscreens can provide force information to the user. The force meter can be integrated with the routine and the user can be provided with feedback on whether to apply too much or too little pressure. The device may also include a thermal sensor or thermometer that may determine the temperature of the user's muscles and provide feedback to the device and/or the app. Haptic feedback can also provide feedback on too much pressure or force.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device includes a motor mount for mounting a brushless motor within the housing and distributing the force from the motor to the housing as the motor operates. The motor is secured to a first side of the motor mount and a second or opposite side of the motor mount is secured to the housing. The motor mount includes a plurality of arms that space the motor from the housing and define a reciprocating space in which the push rod and associated components (such as counterweights) reciprocate. A threaded fastener connects the motor mount to the housing. In a preferred embodiment, a damping member or abutment is received on the shaft of the threaded fastener. The damping members each include an annular slot defined therein. The annular slot receives the housing. This prevents the threaded fastener from making direct contact with the housing and reduces noise due to vibration. The threaded fastener is received in an opening in a tab at the end of the arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is housed in a motor housing which is rotatable within the main housing. The motor housing is basically equivalent to the gearbox housing of the related embodiment. In a preferred embodiment, there are opposing openings on the exterior of the motor housing, which expose the motor on one side and the motor mount on the other side. The opening provides ventilation to the motor and allows the motor mount to be connected directly to the main housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a touch screen as well as button(s) for operating the device. For example, the device may include a touchscreen, a center button to turn the device on and off, and left and right (eg, with preset treatments described herein) and up and down (eg, to control speed or frequency). to) include a ring/rocker button that provides the ability to scroll. The screen may also be a non-touch screen.

In other preferred embodiments, any device taught herein may include the ability to vary amplitude, thus providing longer or shorter strokes depending on the application or user's needs. Amplitude variability may also be part of the routines or presets described herein. For example, the device may include a mechanical switch that allows the eccentricity of the connector to be modified (eg, between 4 mm and 8 mm). The mechanism may include a push button and a slider. The pin structure has a spring that retracts it back into the locked position.

In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a touch screen for stopping, starting, activating, and the like. The touch screen may also include other functions. Preferably, the device includes a thumbwheel or rolling button located near the touchscreen/on-off button to allow the user to scroll or navigate through various functions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention may be understood more readily with reference to the accompanying drawings:
1 is a side elevational view of a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
1A is another side elevational view of the percussive massage device of FIG. 1 ;
2 is a perspective view of a percussive massage device;
3 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing the user gripping the first handle portion;
4 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing the user gripping the third handle portion;
5 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing the user gripping the second handle portion;
6 is an exploded perspective view of the percussive massage device.
7 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a drive train component of the percussive massage device;
8 is another exploded perspective view of a portion of a percussive massage device;
9 is a perspective view of drive train components of the percussive massage device;
10 is a perspective view of a push rod assembly of a percussive massage device;
11 is a perspective view of another percussive massage device.
12 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device of FIG. 11 ;
13 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing some internal components in hidden lines;
14 is an exploded perspective view of some internal components of the percussive massage device;
15 is a perspective view of another percussive massage device.
16 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device of FIG. 15 ;
17 is a block diagram illustrating interconnected components of a percussive massage device with a force meter;
18 is a circuit diagram of a microcontroller unit with a pinout according to one embodiment.
19 is a circuit diagram used to detect a battery voltage according to an exemplary embodiment.
20 is a circuit diagram for detecting and measuring a motor voltage of a percussive massage device according to an embodiment.
21 is a flowchart illustrating a method of detecting a force applied by a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment.
22 is a flow chart illustrating a method of generating a lookup table correlating voltage to force according to a preferred embodiment.
23 is a graph plotting a look-up table for use in a method of detecting a force applied by a percussive massage device generated by correlating a voltage to a force according to a preferred embodiment;
Fig. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a method of calibrating a lookup table according to a preferred embodiment.
25 is a graph plotting a look-up table generated by a method of detecting a force applied by a percussive massage device against a look-up table calibrated using the method for calibrating a look-up table according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; to be.
26 is a flowchart illustrating a method of calibrating a lookup table.
27 is a graph plotting a lookup table after calibration according to a preferred embodiment.
28 is a flowchart illustrating a method of detecting a force applied by a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment.
29 is a flow chart illustrating a method of generating a lookup table correlating power to force according to a preferred embodiment.
30 is a graph plotting a lookup table for use in a method of detecting a force generated by correlating power to a force according to a preferred embodiment.
Fig. 31 is a flowchart illustrating a method of calibrating a lookup table according to a preferred embodiment.
32 is a graph plotting a lookup table after calibration according to a preferred embodiment.
33 is a perspective view of a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 34 is a perspective view of the percussive massage device of Fig. 13 with a portion of the housing removed;
35 is a perspective view of a motor;
36 is a side elevational view of a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
37 is another side elevational view of the percussive massage device;
38 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing the user gripping the first handle portion;
39 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing the user gripping the third handle portion;
40 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device showing the user gripping the second handle portion;
Fig. 41 is a perspective view of the percussive massage device of Fig. 18 with a portion of the housing removed;
42A and 42B are cross-sectional views of the head part and the motor.
Fig. 43 is an exploded view of some internal components of the percussive massage device of Fig. 33;
43A is an exploded view of a motor and a motor mounting part;
44 is a chart showing the steps of protocol 1 according to a method of performing a routine of a percussive massage device.
45 is a chart showing the steps of the "Shin Splints" protocol according to a method of performing a routine of a percussive massage device.
46A, 46B, 46C and 46D are a method of performing a routine of a percussive massage device.
47 is a front view of a graphical user interface showing the "Turtleneck" protocol. and
48 is a front view of a graphical user interface showing the “Right Biceps” protocol.
Like numbers refer to like parts throughout the various figures of the drawings.

The following description and drawings are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. In certain instances, however, well-known or customary details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. Reference to one or another embodiment in the present disclosure may, but is not necessarily to, a reference to the same embodiment, and such reference means at least one of the embodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive of another embodiment. Moreover, various features that may appear in some embodiments and may not appear in other embodiments are described. Similarly, various requirements are described that may be requirements for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

Terms used herein generally have their ordinary meanings in the art within the context of the present disclosure, and in the specific context in which each term is used. Certain terms used to describe the disclosure are set forth below or elsewhere in the specification to provide additional guidance to those skilled in the art in connection with the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be emphasized, for example, using italics and/or quotation marks: the use of emphasis does not affect the scope and meaning of the term; The categories and meanings of terms are the same in the same context, whether emphasized or not. It will be appreciated that the same may be referred to in more than one manner.

Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms described herein. No particular importance is attached to whether a term is detailed or discussed herein. Synonyms for specific terms are provided. The specification of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of an example anywhere in this specification, including an example of any term described herein, is illustrative only and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any illustrated term. . Likewise, the present disclosure is not limited to the various embodiments given herein.

Without intending to further limit the scope of the present disclosure, examples of instruments, devices, methods and their related results according to embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. It is noted that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for the convenience of the reader, which in no way limit the scope of the present disclosure. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. In case of conflict, this document, including definitions, will control.

As used herein, terms such as “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, “side”, “short”, “long”, “top”, “bottom” and “below” are for descriptive purposes only. It will be understood that for ease of operation, reference is made to the orientation of the components as shown in the drawings. It should be understood that any orientation of the components described herein is within the scope of the present invention.

While many embodiments are described herein, at least some of the described embodiments provide apparatus, systems, and methods for reciprocating treatment devices.

1-10 show an embodiment of a percussive massage device 212 that includes a rechargeable battery (and a replaceable or removable battery) 114 . Device 212 is commercially referred to as a G3PRO. 1 to 1A , in a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device 212 has three handle portions (herein a first handle portion) that cooperate to define a central or handle opening 149 . 143 , a second handle portion 145 and a third handle portion 147 ). All handle portions are long enough to be configured so that a person can grip a particular handle portion to use the device. The ability to grip different handle portions allows a person (when using the device on one's body) to use the device on different body parts and from different angles, thus allowing a person to use the device on different body parts, such as may not be possible without three handle portions, etc. Provides the ability to reach the site.

1 , the first handle portion 143 defines a first handle portion axis A1 , the second handle portion 145 defines a second handle portion axis A2 , and the second handle portion 145 defines a second handle portion axis A2 , Three handle portions 147 define a third handle portion axis A3, which axes cooperate to form a triangle. In a preferred embodiment, the battery 114 is housed within the second handle section 145 and the motor 106 is housed within the third handle section 147 .

3 to 5 illustrate a user's hand gripping various handle units. The respective lengths of the first, second and third handle portions may be such that, as shown in FIGS. 3-5 , a person with large hands may extend each handle with at least three to four fingers extending through the handle opening. Long enough to comfortably grip wealth. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion 143 has an inner edge 143a, the second handle portion 145 has an inner edge 145a, and the third handle portion 147 has an inner edge 147a. , which edges all cooperate to at least partially define the handle opening 149 . 1 , in the preferred embodiment, the first handle portion 143 extends between the inner edge 143a of the first handle portion and the inner edge 147a of the third handle portion 147 and includes the handle a finger protrusion 151 comprising a finger surface 151a that at least partially defines an opening 149 . 3 , in use, the user can place his or her index finger against the finger surface 151a. The finger projections and surfaces provide a feedback point or support surface that allows the user to assist control and comfort using the device when the user places their index finger against the surface. In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of the finger surface 151a is straight as shown in FIG. 1 (as opposed to the other "corners" of the handle opening 149 being rounded).

1A shows preferred dimensions of the inner surface of the handle opening 149 . It will be understood that the inner surface comprises a series of flat and curved surfaces. H1 is the dimension (first handle portion length) of the inner edge 143a of the first handle portion 143 . H2 is the dimension (second handle portion length) of the inner edge 145a of the second handle portion 145f. H3 is the dimension (third handle portion length) of the inner edge 147a of the third handle portion 147 . H4 is the dimension (finger projection length) of the finger surface 151a. R1 is the dimension of the radius between the inner edges 143a, 145a, and R2 is the dimension of the radius between the inner edges 145a, 147a. In a preferred embodiment, H1 is about 94 mm, H2 is about 66 mm, H3 is about 96 mm, H4 is about 12 mm, R1 is about 6.5 mm and R2 is about 6.5 mm, which is about 10.2 mm. gives the arc length of . In the context of this specification, “about” is within 5 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the inner edge of the handle opening is about 289 mm. The length of the inner edge of the handle opening may be from about 260 mm to about 320 mm, in any combination of H1, H2, H3, H4, R1 and R2. It will be understood that these dimensions are optimized such that a 95th percentile male can grip any of the three handle portions with at least three and preferably four fingers extended through the handle opening to use the device. will be able It will be appreciated that any or all surfaces R1 and R2 may be considered part of any of three adjacent handle portions. 1 and 1A , when the finger surface 151a is straight, the first handle portion inner surface, the second handle portion inner surface, the third handle portion inner surface, and the finger surface are each straight surface. cooperate to define a quadrilateral with a radius or rounded edge in between.

Device 212 also includes multiple speed settings (preferably 1500 and 2400 RPM, but may be any speed or frequency taught herein). Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that, although RPMs are listed as specific numbers, RPMs may fluctuate during use due to manufacturing tolerances. For example, at a 2400 RPM setting, the RPM may actually vary between 2260 and 2640.

6-10 illustrate some of the internal and external components included in the treatment device 212 (208, 210) shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 11-16. As shown in FIG. 6 , the percussive massage device 212 includes a housing 101 comprised of first and second housing halves 103 . The outer cover 213 and the top cover 215 may be connected to the first and second housing halves via tabs 105 or other mechanisms or attachment methods (eg, threaded fasteners, clips, adhesives, sonic welding, etc.). 103) is accommodated and connected to the phase. The percussive massage device 212 includes a rotating housing 44 (first and second rotating housing halves 44a ) housing a tambour door 217 , a battery 114 , an inner suspension ring 219 and a gearbox 404 . , 44b)).

As shown in FIG. 7 , the device includes a pinion coupling assembly 216 disposed between a motor and a pinion shaft or shaft gear 117 (located on the shaft or pinion shaft 116 ). The pinion coupling assembly 216 is used to couple the motor to the gearbox so that torque is fully transmitted so that there is no radial movement and vibration and noise are minimized. The pinion coupling assembly 216 preferably includes three separate components: a lower connector 218 , a cross coupling 220 and an upper connector 222 . In a preferred embodiment, the lower connector 218 includes a body portion 218a defining a central opening 218b for receiving the motor shaft 248 , and first and second lower connectors extending outwardly from the body portion 218a . arm 218c. The upper connector 222 includes a body portion 222a defining a central opening 222b for receiving the pinion shaft 117 and first and second upper connector arms 222c extending outwardly from the body portion 222a. include Preferably, the cross coupling 220 includes radially extending ribs 220a defining a channel 220b therebetween. The first and second lower connector arms 218c and the first and second upper connector arms 222c are sized and shaped to be received within the channel 220b in operative engagement with the radially extending ribs. In use, the motor shaft 248 rotates the pinion coupling assembly, which rotates the pinion shaft 117 . These components work together to reduce noise and vibration. In a preferred embodiment, the lower and upper connectors are made of plastic and the cross coupling is made of elastomer. In a preferred embodiment, the cross coupling 220 is made of a rubber containing a hardness that isolates vibrations generated by the motor while maintaining strength and transmitting torque efficiently (without dissipating significant energy). However, the material does not limit the invention.

In the preferred embodiment, the pinion shaft 116 is received within and extends through the bearings 224 and 225 . Preferably, bearing 224 includes a ball bearing (and provides radial support) and bearing 225 includes a needle bearing (and provides radial support but capable of withstanding higher temperatures). The pinion coupling assembly 216 is received within a motor mount 250 coupled to the motor 106 and through which the motor shaft 248 extends. As shown in FIG. 9 , the motor mounting unit 250 is connected to the gearbox mounting unit 252 .

7-9 , gearbox 404 includes, in one embodiment, a gear member 304 and a reciprocator or push rod 230/310. Preferably, the gear member 304 includes a shaft 246 extending therefrom, to which the reciprocator 310 is connected. Gearbox 404 may provide mounting points for gear member 304 and reciprocator 310 . The gearbox 404 may limit the motion of the gear member 304 and the reciprocator to a specific direction or axis of rotation. The gearbox 404 may be mounted on the housing 101 . In some embodiments, the gearbox 404 is separated from the housing 101 by one or more flexible damping blocks 402 .

6 and 8 , in a preferred embodiment a rubber cover may be provided to prevent the gearbox from transmitting vibrations to the housing. An additional inner suspension ring 219 isolates the vibration of the gearbox from the handle and treatment structure. Preferably, the ring 219 is made of an elastomer and acts as a cushion to damp vibrations between the rotating housing and the housing 101 . In a preferred embodiment, the inner suspension ring 219 surrounds the outer radial surface of the body portion 62 (see seating surface 523 in FIG. 8 ).

In one embodiment, rotation of the driven output or shaft 108 may be selectively locked and unlocked by a user. For example, a user may unlock rotation of shaft 108 , rotate driven output 108 to a desired position relative to housing 101 , lock rotation of driven output 108 , and reciprocate treatment The device 100 may be operated. 8 shows components that allow rotation of the rotating housing 44 together with the push rod assembly 108 and associated components. Button 515 includes radially extending teeth 515a and is biased outwardly by a spring 519 that surrounds and rests on spacer 518 (preferably made of foam). The spring 519 rests against damping members 520 , 517 preferably made of rubber to damp any vibrations of the spring 519 . The assembly also includes a gearbox cover 525 and a damping ring 521 . Button 515 is biased outwardly by spring 519 into position into engagement with teeth 516a defined in hoop 516 , teeth 515a connected to housing 101 . The hoop 516 preferably includes inner and outer plastic rings 516b, 516c with a rubber ring 516d interposed therebetween to help dampen vibrations and reduce noise. Button 515 is movable between a first position in which teeth 515a engage teeth 516a and a second position in which teeth 515 do not engage teeth 516a. When button 515 is in the first position, rotation assembly 47 cannot rotate. When the button is pressed into the second position, the teeth 515a disengage from the teeth 516a, thereby causing the entire rotation assembly 47 to rotate. The rotating housing 44 includes a body portion 62 disposed within the housing and an arm portion 64 extending out of the housing through a rotational space 60 . The arm portion 64 rotates within a rotational space 60 defined in the housing 101 . As shown in FIG. 2 , in the preferred embodiment, the device 212 is deployed within the rotational space 60 when the rotational assembly is moved from the position illustrated in FIG. 1 to the position illustrated in FIG. 2 . and a tambour door 217 . Tambor door 217 covers slot 214 . As shown in FIG. 2 , the arm cover 524 covers the arm portion 64 of the rotating housing 44 .

As shown in FIG. 9 , the gearbox housing 404 includes a clearance slot 214 defined therein for the push rod assembly 108 . Slots 214 are provided to allow push rod assembly 108 to move freely and to allow rotational housing 44 to deflect. Gap slot 214 has first and second ends 214a, 214b. As shown in FIG. 9 , the push rod assembly 108 extends through the gap slot 214 . It will be appreciated that when the rotating housing 44 is rotated from the first position to the second position, the push rod assembly 108 moves within the gap slot 214 from its first end to its second end.

8-10 , in a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly or output shaft 108 is two halves with an adapter member 226 therebetween to also help reduce noise and vibration. or load. The adapter member 226 isolates vibrations generated within the gearbox and prevents the vibrations from being transmitted down the shaft to the treatment structure. The adapter member 226 may include an anti-rotation tab to protect the push rod from user applied torque during use. The first rod portion 230 (push rod or displacer 310 ) of the output shaft 108 includes an opening 232 at its end that receives a pivot pin 234 . The connection between the first rod portion 230 and the adapter member 226 includes a pin 234 and a bushing 227 having an elastomeric material for damping vibrations. The end of the first rod portion 230 including the opening 232 is received within the pocket 229 of the adapter member 226 . A pin 234 extends through the opening in the sidewall of the adapter member 226 , through the bushing 227 , and through the opening 232 to secure the first rod portion 230 to the adapter member 226 . The adapter member 226 includes a projection 231 extending therefrom received in an opening 233 of an end of the second rod portion 236 for connecting the adapter member 226 to the second rod portion 236 . . In another embodiment, the end of the second rod portion 236 may be received within the opening of the adapter member 226 . In use, the size of the upper opening of the pocket 229 allows the first rod portion to move laterally as the opening 232 pivots on the pin 234 and the first rod portion 231 reciprocates. This is converted into a linear reciprocation of the second rod portion 236 . Because the bushing 227 includes at least some elastomeric material, vibration is damped (and noise reduced) as the push rod assembly 108 reciprocates.

A ring 526 rests and surrounds the bottom portion of the arm portion 64 (see seat 64a in FIG. 8 ) to help hold the first and second housing halves 44a and 44b together. A washer or guide member 527 is received within the rotating housing 44 and provides stability and path for the reciprocating push rod assembly or output shaft 108 .

As shown in FIG. 9 , in this embodiment, the first rod portion 230 or push rod assembly 108 extends through the gap slot 214 . The term push rod assembly encompasses any of the embodiments described herein, and may include a shaft having an adapter member that allows pivoting between the two halves, or may include a single shaft that does not include any pivot. It can be understood that there is

9-10, in the preferred embodiment, the male connector 110 includes an alignment tab 497 on each ball that mates with a slot in the female opening. These tabs 497 assist in proper alignment with the treatment structure. See US Patent Application Publication No. 2019/0017528, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

11-16 show an embodiment of a percussive massage device similar to the percussive massage device 212 above, but without a rotating assembly. The device 208 shown in FIGS. 11-14 is commercially referred to as G3. The device 210 shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 is commercially referred to as LIV. 13 , in the preferred embodiment, switch 104 includes switch electronics 575 associated therewith. The switch electronics 575 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) and other components for causing the switch 104 to activate the motor 106, change the speed of the motor, and turn the device on and off, among other tasks. may include 13 , in the preferred embodiment, the motor 106 is housed in the third handle section 147 , the battery 114 is housed in the second handle section 145 , and the switch electronics ( 575 is received in the first handle portion 143 . This configuration also applies to devices 210 and 212 . 14 shows a cushioning member 577 surrounding the gearbox 404 and assisting in damping and reducing noise and vibration generated by components within the gearbox. Cushion member 577 is similar to inner suspension ring 219 in device 212 . However, the cushioning member 577 is thicker and does not need to rotate due to the exclusion of the rotating housing from the devices 208 , 210 . Cushion member 577 includes cutouts or channels 579 therein to allow clearance of components such as the push rod assembly and pinion shaft.

17 to 35 show an embodiment according to a percussion massage device with a force meter. 17 is a block diagram illustrating interconnected components of a percussive therapy device having a force meter 700 . In one embodiment, percussive therapy device 700 with force meter includes microcontroller unit 701 , battery pack management unit 702 , NTC sensor 703 , power charge management unit 704 , wireless charge management Unit 705, wireless charging receiving system 706, voltage management unit 707 (5V 3.3V voltage management in the drawing), battery charging input 708 (20V 2.25A charging input in the drawing), display 709 ( power/battery/speed display in the drawing), wireless control unit 710 (bluetooth control in the drawing), OLED screen 711, OLED screen control system 712, motor 713, motor drive system 714, PWM and a speed setting unit 715 , an overcurrent protection unit 716 , and a power switch unit 717 (power on/off OLED screen SW in the drawing). In the embodiment shown according to FIG. 17 , each block in the figure is shown as a separate component. However, in alternative embodiments, specific components may be combined without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, microcontroller unit 701 is a microcontroller unit including a processor, memory, and input/output peripherals. However, in other embodiments microcontroller unit 701 is an ST Microelectronics STM32F030K6 series microcontroller unit, STM32F030C8T6 series microcontroller, STM32F030CCT6 series microcontroller, or equivalent microcontroller.

A person skilled in the art will understand that the memory of the microcontroller unit 701 is configured to store machine readable code for processing by a processor of the microcontroller unit 701 . Various other configurations may exist depending on whether the designer of the percussive massage device with force meter 700 wishes to implement machine readable code in software, firmware, or both. In one embodiment, the machine readable code is stored in a memory and configured to be executed by a processor of the microcontroller 701 . In one embodiment, the machine readable code is stored on a computer-readable medium.

In one embodiment, the battery pack management unit 702 is implemented in firmware or software and is configured for use in connection with the microcontroller unit 701 . In this embodiment, the firmware or software is stored in a memory (not shown) and configured to be obtainable by the microcontroller unit 701 . The battery pack management unit 702 may also be a combination of firmware, software and hardware in other embodiments. The battery pack management unit 702 is coupled with the NTC sensor 703 . The NTC sensor 703 is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor used by the battery pack management unit 702 to sense the temperature of the battery pack. For example, the NTC sensor 703 is a thermistor with a B value of 3950 +/- 1% and a resistance of 10 kΩ. In another example, the resistance of the thermistor is 100 kΩ. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a thermistor is a resistor whose resistance is temperature dependent. However, in other embodiments, the NTC sensor 703 may be another type of temperature sensing device or component used in connection with the battery pack management unit 702 .

In one embodiment, the power charge management unit 704 is implemented in firmware or software and is configured for use in connection with the microcontroller unit 701 . Similar to the battery pack management unit 702 , the power charge management unit 704 firmware or software is stored in a memory (not shown) and configured to be obtainable by the microcontroller unit 701 . The power charge management unit 704 may also be a combination of firmware, software and hardware in other embodiments. In various embodiments, the power charge management unit 704 is configured to charge the battery pack via a direct connection or via an external charger, eg, when configured to be operable with a rechargeable battery.

In one embodiment, the wireless charge management unit 705 is coupled to the battery pack management unit 702 and the battery charge input 708 . In other embodiments, the battery or battery pack is charged using other conventional methodologies, such as charging the battery or battery pack using, for example, a wire or cord coupled to the battery charging input 708 .

In one embodiment, the wireless charging receiving system 706 is coupled to the power charging management unit 704 and the display 709 . The wireless charging receiving system 706 includes one or more of firmware, software, and hardware. In one embodiment, the wireless charging receiving system 706 is configured to receive information regarding battery capacity, charging metrics, and other information regarding wireless charging, and communicate the information to the power charging management unit 704 . The wireless charging receiving system 706 preferably includes a wireless charging pad used to charge the percussive massage device with the force meter 700 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a variety of wireless charging devices may be used to wirelessly charge a percussive massage device with the force meter 700 . As an example, the Qi wireless charging standard and related devices may be used to wirelessly charge a percussive massage device with a force meter 700 .

In one embodiment, voltage management unit 707 is a DC voltage regulator that steps down the power from 5 volts to 3.3 volts for use by microcontroller unit 701 . Voltage management unit 707 may also perform additional functions for management of 3.3 volt power for use by microcontroller unit 701 . In one embodiment, the voltage management unit 707 is implemented using a series of electronic components, such as using electronic components to implement a resistive divider. In another embodiment, voltage management unit 707 is a standalone voltage regulator module and/or device designed to step down the voltage from 5 volts to 3.3 volts. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand the various methodologies and devices available for stepping 5 volts to 3.3 volts.

In one embodiment, the battery charge input 708 is an interface into which a wire or cord may be inserted to charge the percussive massage device to the force meter 700 . For example, a standardized barrel connector is the battery charge input 708 . In another example, battery charge input 708 is a USB connector. Other, more specialized charging methodologies may require specific battery charging inputs not previously described.

Display 709 displays a series of LEDs indicating the amount of force applied by the percussive massage device having force meter 700 in one embodiment. In an alternative embodiment, display 709 displays a series of LEDs indicating the current battery or battery pack charge of the percussive massage device with force meter 700 . In another embodiment, display 709 displays a series of LEDs indicating the current speed of the percussive massage device with force meter 700 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that although LEDs are specified in the embodiments described above, other embodiments that do not use LEDs, such as, for example, liquid crystal displays, OLEDs, CRT displays, or plasma displays, are within the scope of the present disclosure. will recognize Those of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that it may be advantageous to use a lower power option to ensure battery power life in embodiments using a battery or battery pack. In one embodiment, display 709 is a 128x64 pixel OLED display.

The wireless control unit 710 is a wirelessly connected device that may be implemented in a wireless microcontroller unit. In one embodiment, the radio control unit 710 is a Bluetooth transceiver module configured to couple to a remote device via Bluetooth. In one embodiment, the Bluetooth module is a Bluetooth Low-Energy (BLE) module configured to run in broadcast mode. The radio control unit 710 is coupled to the microcontroller unit 701 . In one embodiment, the remote device is a smartphone with an embedded Bluetooth module. In an alternative embodiment, the remote device is a personal computer with a Bluetooth connection. In other embodiments, a wireless connection standard other than the Bluetooth wireless standard may be used. It will be understood that a Bluetooth connection or other wireless connection may be described herein as being implemented in a wirelessly connected device. The wirelessly connected device may be a separate module, may be included in an MCU or other component of the device, or may be a separate chip. In summary, a percussive therapy device comprising a wirelessly connected device indicates that the percussive massage device may be wirelessly connected to another electronic device (eg, a phone, tablet, computer, computer, voice controlled speaker, general speaker, etc.) it means. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a low power wireless control module may be advantageous when a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 utilizes a battery or battery pack.

In one embodiment, OLED screen 711 and OLED screen control system 712 are configured to display substantially the same information as display 709 referenced above. OLED screen 711 is coupled to OLED screen control system 511 . OLED screen control system 712 is coupled to microcontroller unit 701 , OLED screen 711 , and power switch unit 717 . In one embodiment, display 709 and OLED screen 711 may overlap, and only one may be used.

In one embodiment, the motor 713 is a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. In one embodiment, motor 713 and motor drive system 714 are configured to vary a speed (ie, rotational motion) that may be converted into reciprocating motion. In another embodiment, the motor 713 is a brushed DC motor, a brushed AC motor, or a brushless AC motor. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that choosing a brushless or brushed motor, or direct or alternating current, may vary depending on the application and intended size, battery power and use.

In one embodiment, the PWM speed setting unit 715 is used to control the pulse width modulation used to drive the motor 713 . The PWM speed setting unit 715 is coupled to the microcontroller unit 701 and the overcurrent protection unit 716 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that pulse width modulation is a way to vary the average power applied to the motor 713, resulting in a desired varying speed. In alternative embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are various methods for varying the speed of a brushless DC motor. For example, the voltage to motor 713 may be controlled in other non-PWM methods.

In one embodiment, the overcurrent protection unit 716 may feature an integrated system-in-package to prevent damage caused by high current to the motor. In another embodiment, the overcurrent protection unit 716 is implemented using a series of electronic components configured to protect the motor from excessively high current.

In one embodiment, the power switch unit 717 is configured to turn on and off the percussive massage device having the force meter 700 . Power switch unit 717 is coupled to OLED screen control system 712 and microcontroller unit 701 . In one embodiment, the power switch unit 717 is a switch 405 .

18 shows a circuit diagram of a microcontroller unit 701 with a pin output. In this embodiment, an STM32F030K6 series microcontroller unit is used. The circuit diagram shows the +3.3 volt power provided to the VDD input of the microcontroller unit 701 . The input part PA3 is represented by "Motor_VOL", which is the voltage of the motor 713 . Input PA2 is "bt_v" which is the battery or battery pack voltage. The microcontroller unit is configured to receive the analog voltage at the inputs PA2 and PA3 and convert it to a digital voltage using an analog-to-digital converter of the microcontroller. The analog-to-digital converter in this embodiment is a 12-bit ADC. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other microcontrollers may perform similar functions using voltage sensing and analog-to-digital converters. In another embodiment, an analog-to-digital converter module separate from the microcontroller may be used.

19 shows a circuit diagram used for battery voltage detection. In this embodiment, +BT as positive battery terminal 518 is P-channel MOSFET 519, N-channel MOSFET 520, 0.1 μF capacitor 521, 100 kΩ resistors 522, 523, 68 kΩ resistor. (524), 1 kΩ resistors (525, 526) and 10 kΩ resistors (527, 528) are coupled to the circuit. The circuit is configured to provide an input analog voltage of a battery or battery pack, or bt_v, to the microcontroller unit 701 of FIG. 18 . In another embodiment, the voltage of the battery or battery pack may be achieved using a voltage reader coupled to the terminals of the battery or battery pack.

20 shows a circuit diagram for voltage detection and measurement of the motor 713 of the percussive massage device. In this embodiment, voltage sense resistor 529 is coupled in parallel with microcontroller unit 701 and coupled to motor 713 . In one embodiment, the voltage sense resistor has a value of 0.0025 Ω. The circuit shown in FIG. 20 is configured to provide a Motor_VOL input to the microcontroller unit 701 of FIG. 17 . In one embodiment, the input analog voltage is amplified. In another embodiment, the voltage of the motor 713 is measured or sensed using a separate set of electronic components or a standalone device and input to a microprocessor for use with a method of displaying force on a percussive massage device.

21 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 800 of detecting a force applied by a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment. In step 802, a voltage magnitude V is obtained. In one embodiment, the voltage magnitude V is an analog voltage obtained using the circuit disclosed in FIG. 17 . In this circuit, the block curve signal from the motor 713 (ie, a Hall effect sensor) is simulated in the circuit as a current using a resistor R, which is placed in parallel with the microcontroller unit 701 . In other embodiments, the voltage corresponding to the current operating speed of the motor 713 may be generated in a variety of other ways. The voltage magnitude V may be input to the microcontroller unit 701 which converts the analog voltage to a digital voltage using an analog-to-digital converter such as that implemented in the STM32F030K6 microcontroller unit. The STM32F030K6 microcontroller unit converts the analog voltage magnitude to a digital code corresponding to a 12-bit ADC (ie 0 to 4096). The digital code represents the voltage magnitude corresponding to the acquired original voltage magnitude V.

In step 804, a lookup table is generated correlating the voltage V with the force magnitude F. In one embodiment, the look-up table is generated using method 900 for generating a look-up table correlating voltage to force. For example, the force magnitude F may be expressed in pounds force. In an alternative embodiment, the force magnitude F may be expressed as a force in Newtons.

In step 806 , the force magnitude F corresponding to the voltage magnitude V is displayed on the percussive massage device with the force meter 700 . In one embodiment, a series of LED lights may be used to indicate various amounts of force when a force is applied by a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 . Thus, as the amount of force magnitude F increases, more LEDs are lit in a series of LED lights. Preferably, the series of LED lights consists of 12 LED lights.

22 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 900 of generating a lookup table correlating voltage and force. In step 902, a maximum magnitude F _MAX of the force is determined. The magnitude of F _MAX may be determined by evaluating the maximum desired force to be applied using a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 . For example, F _MAX is a force of 60 pounds.

At step 904 , the maximum magnitude of the voltage V _MAX is determined. The magnitude of V _MAX may be determined by evaluating the maximum theoretical voltage change possible by a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 . For example, V _MAX is 1.8 volts.

In step 906, F _MAX is divided by the same increment. Using the example above in step 902, the force of 60 pounds is divided into 60 1-pound increments.

In step 908, V _MAX is divided by the same amount of increment as determined in step 906 above. Thus, using the above example of step 904, 1.8 volts is divided into 60 0.3 volt increments.

At step 910, a look-up table (LUT) is generated correlating increments of force in pounds with increments of voltage. This inevitably creates a linear relationship between force and voltage. 23 is a graph plotting LUTs for use in the force detection method of FIG. 21 created using the specific example identified in FIG. 22 ; The graph shows the calculated force calculated using the method 900 .

A problem may arise that the theoretical maximum voltage assumption in step 904 of method 900 is incorrect. When a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 is used, it may also be the case that the maximum available voltage decreases over time. That is, the battery or battery pack voltage may be reduced.

Accordingly, the method 1000 of calibrating the LUT generated by the method 900 may be advantageous. 24 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1000 of calibrating a LUT. In step 1002, the battery pack voltage BV is obtained. In one embodiment, the battery pack voltage magnitude (BV) is an analog voltage obtained using the circuit disclosed in FIG. 19 . In this circuit, the battery pack voltage magnitude (BV) may be input to a microcontroller unit 701 that converts an analog voltage to a digital voltage using an analog-to-digital converter such as that implemented in the STM32F030K6 microcontroller unit. The STM32F030K6 microcontroller unit converts the analog voltage magnitude to a digital code corresponding to a 12-bit ADC (ie 0 to 4096). The digital code represents the voltage magnitude corresponding to the obtained original battery pack voltage magnitude (BV).

At step 1004 , V _MAX is set to the actual battery voltage magnitude (BV) output. For example, 0.6 volts may be reduced from 1.8 volts to 1.74 volts. At step 1006 , the LUT linear correlation is adjusted to reflect a _{lower V MAX .} 25 is a graph plotting the LUT calculated by the method 900 against the LUT calibrated using the method 1000 . The LUT resulting from method 1000 represents a calibrated force, not a calculated force.

26 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1100 of calibrating a LUT. Method 1100 may be performed after method 900 , or completely separate from method 900 . In step 1102, the battery pack voltage (BV) is measured. In one embodiment, the measurement is made without applying any force from the percussive massage device having the force meter 700 . In one embodiment, the battery pack voltage (BV) is measured using an external voltage meter. In another embodiment, the battery pack and/or microcontroller unit 701 has a built-in solution for directly measuring the battery pack voltage BV.

In step 1104, the display on the percussive massage device 700 with a force meter that displays the force magnitude F to determine a force magnitude F corresponding to the measured battery pack voltage BV is read.

In step 1106, a force meter is used to measure the actual force applied. In one embodiment, the force meter is a push/pull force meter. Direct measurement of the force allows the LUT to be calibrated by comparing the displayed force magnitude F to the actual force measured. In step 1108, the LUT is updated with a calibrated force corresponding to the measured battery pack voltage (BV). After step 1108, steps 1102-1106 are repeated for each successive voltage increment. In the embodiment shown according to method 900, steps 1102-1106 are repeated every 3 volt increments. 27 is a graph plotting the LUT calculated by method 1100 after every 3 volt increment has been updated.

Fig. 28 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1200 of detecting a force applied by a percussive massage device according to a preferred embodiment. In step 1202, the current magnitude C of the battery pack is obtained. In one embodiment, the current magnitude C is input to the microcontroller unit 701 . In step 1204, the voltage magnitude BV of the battery pack is obtained. In one embodiment, the voltage magnitude BV is input to the microcontroller unit 701 . In step 1206, the power is calculated using the product of C and BV. In one embodiment, the microcontroller unit 701 is configured to calculate the power by multiplying C by BV. In step 1208, a lookup table is generated correlating the power magnitude P with the force magnitude F. In one embodiment, the look-up table is generated using method 1300 of generating a look-up table correlating power with force. For example, the power magnitude P may be expressed in watts. In an alternative embodiment, the force magnitude F may be expressed as a force in pounds or a force in Newtons.

In step 1210 , the force magnitude F corresponding to the power magnitude P is displayed on the percussive massage device with the force meter 700 . In one embodiment, a series of LED lights may be used to indicate various amounts of force when a force is applied by a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 . Thus, as the amount of force magnitude F increases, more LEDs are lit in a series of LED lights. Preferably, the series of LED lights consists of 12 LED lights.

29 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1300 of generating a lookup table correlating power to force. At step 1302 , the maximum magnitude of power F _MAX is determined. However, the theoretical maximum magnitude of power is not a reasonable assumption if it is also possible to calculate the total active power. Equation 1 may be used to determine the total maximum active power (EP _{MAX ).}

Equation 1: Total EP _MAX = P _MAX x Total EP

The total EP may be calculated using Equation 2, which is then input to Equation 1 above.

Equation 2: Total EP = EP _BATTERY x EP _PCBA x EP _MOTOR

Here, the total EP, EP _BATTERY , EP _PCBA and EP _MOTOR are all expressed as percentages, where PCBA is the printed circuit board assembly.

In one embodiment, the EP (battery) is 85%, the EP (PCBA) is 95%, and the EP (motor) is 75%. Therefore, using Equation 2, the total EP is 85% * 95% * 75% = 60.5625%.

In this embodiment, P _MAX is calculated by multiplying the _{maximum voltage V MAX} of the battery pack by the maximum number of amperes C _{MAX as in Equation 3 .} Then, P _MAX is input to Equation (1).

P _MAX = V _MAX x C _MAX

In this embodiment, V _MAX is 16.8 volts and C _MAX is 20 amps. Therefore, P _MAX is 336 watts.

Now, returning to Equation 1, if P _MAX is 336 watts and the total EP is 60.5625%, then the total EP _MAX is 203 watts.

At step 1304 , a minimum amount of power P _MIN is determined. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that no force is applied (ie, no load) power is non-zero. Therefore, a P _MIN of 12 watts is assumed. Those skilled in the art will also understand that this value is equivalent to the no-load rated power and may be derived from _{V MAX} and C _{MIN .}

At step 1306 , a maximum magnitude F _MAX of the force is determined. The magnitude of F _MAX may be determined by evaluating the maximum desired force to be applied using a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 . For example, F _MAX is a force of 60 pounds.

In step 1308, the total EP _MAX is divided by the same increment. In one embodiment, the total EP _MAX starts at P _MIN (12 watts) and is divided by 3 watt increments per pound of force. One of ordinary skill in the art would know that if F _MAX is a force of 60 pounds and is the total desired force output of the percussive massage device with force meter 700 , then the force of 60 pounds is 189 watts within the _{calculated total EP MAX} will recognize that it is correlated with

In step 1310, a LUT is generated that correlates pound increments of power with power increments in watts. This inevitably creates a linear relationship between force and voltage. 30 is a graph plotting LUTs for use in the force detection method of FIG. 28 generated using the specific example identified in FIG. 25 ; The graph shows the calculated force calculated using method 1200 .

Similar to method 900 , a problem may arise in step 1204 of method 1200 that the measured voltage of the battery pack is incorrect. When a percussive massage device having a force meter 700 is used, it may also be the case that the maximum available voltage drops over time. That is, the battery or battery pack voltage may be reduced.

31 is a flow diagram illustrating a method 1400 of calibrating a LUT. Method 1400 may be performed after method 900 or method 1200, or may be performed completely separately from method 900 or method 1200. In step 1402, the current magnitude C of the battery pack is obtained. In one embodiment, the current magnitude C is input to the microcontroller unit 701 .

In step 1404, the battery pack voltage (BV) is measured. In one embodiment, the measurement is made without applying any force from the percussive massage device having the force meter 700 . In one embodiment, the battery pack voltage (BV) is measured using an external voltage meter. In another embodiment, the battery pack and/or microcontroller unit 701 has a built-in solution for directly measuring the battery pack voltage BV. In step 1406, the power is calculated using the product of C and BV. In one embodiment, the microcontroller unit 701 is configured to calculate the power by multiplying C by BV.

In step 1408, the display on the percussive massage device with force meter 700 displaying the force magnitude F is read to determine the force magnitude F corresponding to the calculated power. In step 1410, a force meter is used to measure the actual force applied. In one embodiment, the force meter is a push/pull force meter. Direct measurement of the force allows the LUT to be calibrated by comparing the displayed force magnitude F to the actual force measured. In step 1412, the LUT is updated with a calibrated force corresponding to the measured power. After step 1412, steps 1402-1410 are repeated for each power or force increment. In the embodiment shown according to method 900, steps 1402-1410 are repeated for every 3-watt increment. 32 is a graph plotting the LUT calculated by method 1400 after every 3 watt increment has been updated.

33-35 illustrate an exemplary percussive massage device 400 implementing the features disclosed herein, particularly in FIGS. 17-48 (or FIGS. 1-16). In general, the percussive massage device 400 includes a housing 402 , a power or battery pack 114 , a motor 406 located in the housing 101 , and a switch 405 for activating the motor 406 . include The electronic device (see printed circuit board 408 in Fig. 34) obtains the voltage of the motor, generates a lookup table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device, and uses the lookup table to obtain the obtained voltage and a controller configured to display a force magnitude corresponding to . [End of 5063]

36-43A show further views of the percussive massage device 400 . 36 and 37 are similar to FIGS. 1 and 1A , with first, second and third handle portions 143 , 145 , 147 cooperating with the percussive massage device 400 to define a handle portion 149 . It is shown that includes a similar triangular shape with For descriptions of other reference numerals and features shown in FIGS. 36 to 40 , at least refer to the description of FIGS. 1 to 5 . All features and components described above with respect to any percussive therapy or massage device may be included in the percussive massage device 400 .

41-43 , in the preferred embodiment, a brushless motor 406 is located in the head portion 12 . The percussive massage device 400 may include a rotatable arm that is part of a rotating housing 44 . The motor 406 is located in a rotating housing 44 , which is housed together with the head portion 12 of the housing 101 . In other embodiments, the rotation capability may be omitted.

In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises a push rod or shaft 14 connected directly to a shaft 16 which is rotated by a motor 406 and a motor shaft 21 extending therefrom. The shaft 16 may be part of a counterweight assembly 17 that includes a counterweight 19 . In a preferred embodiment, the push rod 14 is L-shaped or comprises an arc shape as shown in FIGS. 42A and 42B . Preferably, the point at which the push rod 14 connects to the shaft 16 is offset from the reciprocating path along which the distal end 18 of the push rod 14 (and massage attachment 628 ) travels. This function is provided by an arc or L-shape. It is to be understood that the push rod 14 is designed to be able to transmit the force at least partially diagonally or in an arc along its shape instead of vertically, so that the motor can be positioned at or near the center of the device, which would otherwise center the shaft. It will need a large protrusion to hold, in which case the motor is offset from (and positioned within the protrusion). The arc also allows the push rod 14 to have a clearance close to the motor as shown in FIGS. 42A and 42B , and allows the outer housing to be smaller than similar prior art devices, and thus device 400 ) to form a lower profile. Fig. 42A shows the push rod 14 at the bottom dead center of its movement and Fig. 42B shows the push rod 14 at the top dead center of its movement. Preferably, one or more bearings 20 are included at the proximal end of the push rod 14 , which are connected to the motor to counteract the diagonal forces and prevent the push rod 14 from moving and contacting the motor 406 . do. Bearing 20 is received in shaft 16 and threaded fastener 26 is received in coaxial opening 16a of shaft 16 . The proximal end of the push rod 14 is accommodated in the bearing 20 . All of these components are shown in FIG. 43 .

33 , in the preferred embodiment, the device 400 is configured to operate the device as well as the touchscreen 409 (also referred to herein as touchscreen 1582 with respect to method steps). button(s) (eg, start, stop, activate, change speed, amplitude, etc.). Touchscreen 409 may also include other functions. Device 400 may also include a thumbwheel or rolling button located near the touchscreen/on-off button to allow the user to scroll or navigate other functions. A touch screen 409 for operating the device. 33, the device 400 includes a touchscreen 409, a center button 404 to turn the device on and off, and a left and right side (eg, with a preset treatment described herein). ) and a ring/rocker button 447 that provides the ability to scroll up and down (eg to control speed or frequency). The screen may also be a non-touch screen or may be used only for display.

In other preferred embodiments, any device taught herein includes the ability to vary amplitude or stroke, thus providing longer or shorter strokes depending on the needs of the application or user. For example, the stroke may vary or vary between about 8-16 mm. In other embodiments, the stroke may vary by up to 25 mm or more. Amplitude/stroke variability may also be part of a routine, preset or protocol described herein. For example, the device may include a mechanical switch that allows the eccentricity of the connector to be modified (eg, between 4 mm and 8 mm). The mechanism may include a push button and a slider. The pin structure has a spring that retracts it back into the locked position.

Similar to the percussive massage devices 208, 210, 212 above, in a preferred embodiment, device 400 includes a plurality of damping components formed of an elastomer or the like and damping vibrations to keep the device relatively quiet. do. For example, as shown in FIG. 43 , device 400 includes a damping ring 426 (similar to inner suspension ring 219 ), which includes a rotating housing 44 (first and second). It surrounds the rotating housing halves 44a and 44b) and helps to damp vibration noise between the rotating housing and the outer housing 101 .

43 and 43A , the device 400 preferably also includes a motor mount 24 that secures the motor 406 in place and is secured to the housing 101/402. The motor 406 (on the first wall 38) has three protrusions 30 (and may include between 1 and 10) received in a protrusion opening 32 defined in the motor mount 24 . Receiving member 28 is included. A flange 34 extending from the motor mount 24 helps hold the protrusion 30 in place. The motor 406 is preferably fixed to the motor mount 24 through a screw-type fastener or the like. A motor shaft 21 extends into a motor mount interior 36 defined between first and second walls 38 and a side surface 40 extending a portion of a path around the circumference. The counterweight assembly 17 , the push rod 14 for converting rotation of the motor shaft 21 into reciprocating motion, and the proximal end of the associated components are located inside the motor mount 36 . The push rod 14 extends out of the interior of the motor mount and downward through the push rod opening 42 at the side 40 . In the preferred embodiment, the motor mount 24 is connected directly to the housing 402/101 via fasteners 46 that are secured to a mounting member 48 within the housing (see Fig. 43A). The term push rod assembly, as used herein, refers to a rotary motor shaft 21 , a push rod 14 extending from a shaft 246 , etc., which provides reciprocating motion and includes an attachment at its distal end; It will be understood to include any of the components described herein or combinations thereof, such as the output shaft 108 , the displacer 310 , and the second rod portion 236 . The push rod assembly also includes a male connector 110 (and any related components) or any other connector at the end of the reciprocating component that allows connection of attachments used for massage or therapy.

Preferably, the device is capable of wireless charging. 34 shows the wireless charging receiver 22 located on the third handle portion 147 . In another embodiment, the wireless charging receiver 22 may be located in the first and second handle portions 143 and 145 or the head portion 12 .

In a preferred embodiment, device 400 may be associated with and operated by an app or software running on a mobile device, such as a phone, watch, or tablet (or any computer). The app may connect to the device 400 via Bluetooth or other wireless connection protocol. An app may have any or all of the following features: Moreover, any of the functions described herein may be added to the touchscreen/scroll wheel or button(s) function directly on the device. If the user is walking or positioned too far from the device, the device will not work or activate. Devices can be turned on and off using apps as well as touchscreens or buttons on the device. The app can control variable speed (eg any speed between 1750-3000 RPM). A timer may be implemented such that the device is stopped after a predetermined period of time.

In a preferred embodiment, the device includes different treatment protocols or routines associated therewith, such as via apps or touchscreens and other functional buttons. During a routine, the device may change various aspects or outputs of the device, or change time, speed (frequency), amplitude (stroke), arm position, force, temperature, grip (i.e., which handle portion to grip), attachment (e.g., You can make changes based on cones, balls, shock absorbers, etc.) and body parts. The device may also inform the user (aurally, via an app, touchscreen, haptic feedback, or via a speaker) some of these changes at specific points throughout the routine, e.g., arm position, gripping, attachment changes, and body part changes. You may be prompted to do One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that depending on the particular design of the device, one or more of these outputs may apply while other devices may apply all of the described options.

When the start of the protocol is selected, the device runs through a pre-programmed routine. For example, the device may be operated at a first RPM for a first period and then operated at a second RPM for a second period and/or operated at a first amplitude for a first period and then operated at a second amplitude for a second period. may be operated as The routine may also include a prompt (eg, haptic feedback) to inform the user to move to a new body part. Such routines or treatments may relate to recovery, increased blood flow, performance, etc., and may each include pre-programmed routines or protocols. These routines may also include specific activities such as sleep, interval training, stairs, post-run, post-workout, recovery, fitness, post-core exercise, high-intensity (plyometric) fitness exercise, among others. can help to promote Rutin may also help provide relief and recovery from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, "turtleneck", muscle spasms, jet lag syndrome, sciatica, carpal tunnel, nodular and shin pain, among others. The routine may also prompt or instruct the user to reposition an attachment (eg, attachment 628 shown in FIG. 40 ) or an arm or rotating housing. Prompts can include sounds, haptic feedback (eg, vibration of the device or mobile device), text commands or visual representations such as graphics or pictures on an app or touchscreen. For example, the app may instruct the user to start with a ball attachment with the arm in position 2. Thereafter, the user presses start and the device runs at the first frequency for a predetermined amount of time. The app or device then prompts the user to start the next step of the routine and instructs the user to change to a cone attachment and place the arm in position 1 (see, eg, arm position in FIG. 38 ). The arm may comprise any number of positions, eg, positions 1-10 or positions 1-3 or positions 1-2. 38-40 show the arms in three different positions. When the user presses restart, the device runs at the second frequency for a predetermined amount of time. The protocol may be divided into steps in which, at each step, the changed outputs are predetermined or designated.

In a preferred embodiment, the device 400 includes a housing 402 (or 101 ), a power source 114 , a motor 406 located within the housing 402 , and a switch 405 (touch) for activating the motor 406 . screen 409 , rocker button 447 , button 404 or any other switch or button) and routine controller 630 . Device 400 is configured to mate with attachment 628 . The attachment may be, for example, attachment 628 shown in FIG. 38 . The attachment is attached to the male connector 110 so that the shaft or push rod assembly 108 reciprocates the attachment according to a specified amplitude. For example, amplitude is shown in FIGS. 42A and 42B , where FIG. 42A shows the attachment in the maximum extension position and FIG. 42B shows the attachment in the minimum extension position. In one embodiment, the distance between the maximum and minimum extension positions may define the amplitude.

Attachment 628 may be a variety of attachments configured to provide therapeutic relief to specific parts of the body. For example, attachment 628 may be a standard ball attachment targeted for general use on both large and small muscle groups (U.S. Patent Application No. 29/677,157, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference). see no.). Attachment 628 may be a conical attachment for pinpoint muscle therapy, trigger points, small muscle regions, such as limbs (see U.S. Patent No. D849,261, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Attachment 628 may also be a buffer attachment used for tender or bony areas but for general use (see U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 29/676,670, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Attachment 628 may be a wedge attachment for use on the scapula and IT band, used for "scraping" and "flushing" operations to help flush lactic acid out of the muscle (the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference). See U.S. Patent No. D845,500, which is incorporated by reference). Attachment 628 may be a large ball for large muscle groups such as the glutes and quadriceps (see US Pat. No. 29/677,016, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Attachment 628 may be a trigger point and thumb attachment used on the waist (see U.S. Patent No. D850,639, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Attachment 628 may be a Supersoft™ attachment designed to provide therapeutic relief to sensitive areas including bone (see U.S. Patent Application No. 29/726,305, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). Those of skill in the art will recognize that the attachments described herein are non-limiting and that other configurations of attachments, including a variety of materials and shapes, may be utilized in accordance with this embodiment. Spherical, forked, planar or other shaped attachments are all within the scope of the present invention.

Routine controller 630 is configured to perform routines in association with one or more designated protocols. The routine controller 630 may be, for example, the microcontroller unit 701 shown in FIG. 17 . Routine controller 630 may also be a standalone microcontroller separate from microcontroller 701 . The routine controller may proceed with the various steps of a specific protocol designed to target specific muscle groups and provide specific therapeutic effects, as described herein.

44 is a table showing an example of a protocol according to the preferred embodiment. Protocol 1 is divided into four steps, each representing a specific time, speed, amplitude, attachment, force, temperature, and grip. In step 1, device 400 is activated for 30 seconds at a speed of 1550 RPM. Routine controller 630 may be used to turn on the percussive massage device and implement a speed of attachment 628 of 1550 RPM. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the speed of the attachment 628 is directly proportional to the speed of the motor 406 . The amplitude of the percussive massage device is set to 2 according to protocol 1. This may be interpreted as a specific distance that the attachment 628 travels during use, as described above. Step 1 also specifies a buffer attachment attached to device 400 , a force of “1” applied by device 400 and a temperature of 21° C. applied to the attachment.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the force applied by the device 400 may vary depending on the pressure applied by the user when pressing the attachment to a body part of the person. As described more fully herein, the force applied by device 400 may be a target force. In embodiments where the user provides pressure to act a specific force on a body part of a person, the routine controller 630 controls the output of the device 400 to ensure that the force actually applied by the attachment becomes the target force. You can also adjust it. Routine controller 630 may also be configured to provide feedback to the user to increase or decrease pressure on a body part of the person to meet the increase or target force. Each of these embodiments is applicable to each step of a given protocol, including steps 1-4 of the protocol shown in FIG. 45 as well as steps 2-4 below.

Step 1 also specifies to operate device 400 using grip 1 . Grip 1 may be, for example, the grip shown on the first handle portion 143 shown in FIG. 39 , otherwise referred to as a “normal” or “standard” grip. Gripping 2 may be, for example, the grip shown on the third handle portion 147 shown in FIG. 40 and is otherwise referred to as a “reverse” grip. An “inverse” grip may also be used for the third handle portion 147 (not shown). Gripping 3 may be, for example, the grip shown on the second handle portion 145 shown in FIG. 41 and is otherwise referred to as a “primary” grip.

In step 2, protocol 1 specifies that device 400 is activated for 15 seconds at 2100 RPM with an amplitude of “3”, a force of “3” and a temperature of 26°C. Step 2 uses a small ball attachment 628 and specifies that device 400 be operated using grip 1 . Thus, step 2 specifies that the buffer attachment from step 1 should be replaced with a small ball attachment, but the same grip is used.

In step 3, protocol 1 specifies that device 400 is activated for 30 seconds at 2200 RPM with an amplitude of “1”, a force of “3” and a temperature of 29°C. Step 3 uses the shock absorber attachment 628 and specifies that the device 400 be operated using grip 1 . Thus, step 3 specifies that the small ball attachment from step 2 should be replaced with a buffer attachment, but the same grip is used.

In step 4, protocol 1 specifies that device 400 is activated for 45 seconds at 2400 RPM with an amplitude of "4", a force of "2" and a temperature of 32°C. Step 3 uses a large ball attachment and specifies that device 400 be operated using grip 1 . Thus, step 3 specifies that the buffer attachment from step 2 should be replaced with a larger ball attachment, but the same grip is used. It will be appreciated that Protocol 1 is provided to the reader as an example of a number of different outputs that may be varied among the myriad treatment protocols that may be provided or developed. It will be further understood that any one or more outputs may be part of a protocol or routine and any output described herein may be omitted. For example, a protocol may include only time and speed, only time, speed and force, or only time, speed and grip, or any other combination of outputs described herein.

45 is a table showing an example of a “shin pain” protocol according to a preferred embodiment. Similar to protocol 1, the shin pain protocol is divided into four phases, each of which represents a specified time, speed, amplitude, attachment, force, temperature, and grip respectively, as well as a specific arm position and body part to apply attachment. to specify In step 1, device 400 is activated for 1 minute at a rate of 1500 RPM with an amplitude of “1”, a force of “2” and a temperature of 21°C. Step 1 uses a shock absorber attachment and specifies that device 400 be operated against the right shin using grip 2 (“reverse”).

Step 1 also designates arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 to be used as arm position 1. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the number of arm positions (eg, 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.) is a predetermined arm position intended to be used during a particular protocol. The body part to which the attachment 628 is to be applied is one of the factors determining the optimal arm position. However, the arm position may be determined by the user and is not otherwise required to implement the protocol. As shown in FIG. 39 , a “standard” grip may be used with arm position 632 for application to a specific part of the body. As shown in FIG. 40 , a “reverse” grip may be used with arm position 634 for application to a particular part of the body. 41 , a “basic” grip may be used with arm position 636 for application to a particular part of the body. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 in combination with a particular gripper 143 , 145 , 147 may vary depending on the application. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that setting the arm position of device 400 depends on the particular device. For example, one device may allow the user to adjust the arm position while another device may not. Otherwise, this step does not apply. In other embodiments, this step may be performed while executing the steps of a particular protocol.

In step 2, the shin pain protocol specifies that device 400 is activated for 1 minute at 1500 RPM with an amplitude of “1”, a force of “2” and a temperature of 21°C. Step 2 uses a shock absorber attachment and specifies that device 400 is operated against the left shin using grip 2 (“reverse”) in arm position 1 . Thus, Step 2 uses the same attachment, grip, and arm positions as Step 1, but with a different shin.

In step 3, the shin pain protocol specifies that device 400 is activated for 1 minute at 2000 RPM with an amplitude of “3”, a force of “3” and a temperature of 24°C. Step 2 uses a shock absorber attachment and specifies that device 400 is operated against the right calf using grip 3 (“default”) in arm position 1 . Thus, step 3 specifies that the user must change the grip from "reverse" to "default" grip, but use the same attachment and arm positions.

In step 4, the shin pain protocol specifies that device 400 is activated for 1 minute at 2000 RPM with an amplitude of “3”, a force of “3” and a temperature of 24°C. Step 2 uses a shock absorber attachment and specifies that device 400 is operated against the left calf using grip 3 (“default”) in arm position 1 . Thus, Step 2 uses the same attachment, grip and arm positions as Step 1, but applies to a different calf.

46 is a series of flow diagrams ( FIGS. 46A , 46B , 46C ) illustrating a method 1500 of executing a routine for a percussive massage device.

46A is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary protocol initiation. At step 1502, protocol 1 is initiated. Protocol 1 is, for example, Protocol 1 shown in FIG. 44 or the “shin pain” protocol shown in FIG. 45 . One of ordinary skill in the art would be aware that protocol 1 shown in FIG. 44 does not include all outputs specific to the shin pain protocol shown in FIG. 45 , and thus, not all steps of method 1500 may include the protocol shown in FIG. 44 . It will be understood that this does not apply to 1.

In step 1504 , the user is prompted to set the arm position to the designated arm position 632 , 634 , 636 . A user may be a person who uses the device 400 on his or her own body or on the body of another person. For example, arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 specified in the shin pain protocol are arm position 1.

At step 1506 , the user is prompted to use the designated gripping or handle portion 143 , 145 , 147 of the device 400 . The grip specified in the shin pain protocol is, for example, the third handle portion 147 . Phage as described herein may vary according to a particular protocol or step.

At step 1508 , the user is prompted to attach a designated attachment to the device 400 . As described herein, attachment may vary according to a particular protocol or step.

At step 1510 , the method determines whether arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 and gripping positions 143 , 145 , 147 have been properly configured and whether attachment 628 has been attached. Step 1510 may involve a prompt to the user by haptic feedback, an application interface, or a touchscreen (among other types of prompts), where the user is asked to proceed when the appropriate arm position, grip, and attachment are ready. In other embodiments, device 400 may automatically detect that arm position and grip are appropriate and that an attachment is attached before proceeding. In one embodiment, step 1510 is repeated until the arm position, grip and attachment are ready.

FIG. 46B is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary Step 1 of a protocol that continues the remaining method 1500 after FIG. 46A .

At step 1512, step 1 of the protocol is initiated. For example, step 1 is, for example, step 1 shown in FIGS. 44 and 45 .

At step 1514 , the method 1500 _{applies a specific time period T 1} during which the device 400 is activated, the velocity of the attachment, the amplitude of the attachment, the force of the attachment, and the temperature of the attachment. In one embodiment, one or more of these outputs of device 400 are applied. This output may be applied by routine controller 630 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that applying a particular one of these outputs does not require the user's implementation of the device 400 relative to the body part. For example, duration, speed, amplitude and temperature do not necessarily depend on the user applying pressure to the body part. On the other hand, the force applied by the attachment 628 may require the user to apply pressure to the body part to reach a target force (or target force range). Also, the temperature may vary depending on whether the attachment 628 is applied to the body part or not, and the body part to which it is applied. Accordingly, the temperature may need to be adjusted during application of the attachment 628 to reach a desired temperature predetermined by the protocol. In other embodiments, the temperature may be adjusted by the user.

After period T ₁ , the user may be prompted to change attachment 628 , arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 , and/or grip positions 143 , 145 , 147 . These outputs may need to be implemented prior to initiating phase 2 of the protocol. In the shin pain protocol shown in FIG. 45 , attachment 628 , arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 and gripping positions 143 , 145 , 147 remain the same. In step 1516 , _{after period T 1} , the user is prompted to set the arm position to the designated arm position 632 , 634 , 636 . A user may be a person who uses the device 400 on his or her own body or on the body of another person.

At step 1518 , the user is prompted to use the designated grips 143 , 145 , 147 on device 400 . Phage as described herein may vary according to a particular protocol or step.

At step 1520 , the user is prompted to attach the designated attachment 628 to the device 400 . As described herein, attachments 628 may vary according to a particular protocol or step.

At step 1522 , the method determines whether arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 and gripping positions 143 , 145 , 147 have been properly configured and whether attachment 628 has been attached. This step and all other similar steps are optional. Step 1510 may involve a prompt to the user by haptic feedback, an application interface, or a touchscreen (among other types of prompts), where the user is prompted to move to a next step in the routine and/or is positioned, gripped, and/or positioned appropriately. and to proceed when the attachment is ready. In other embodiments, device 400 may automatically detect that arm position and grip are appropriate and that an attachment is attached before proceeding. In one embodiment, step 1522 is repeated until the arm position, grip and attachment are ready.

46C is a flow diagram illustrating exemplary step 2 of a protocol that continues the remaining method 1500 after FIG. 46B .

At step 1524, step 2 of the protocol is initiated. For example, step 2 is, for example, step 2 shown in FIGS. 44 and 45 .

At step 1526 , the method 1500 _{applies a specific time period T 2} during which the device 400 is activated, the velocity of the attachment, the amplitude of the attachment, the force of the attachment, and the temperature of the attachment. In one embodiment, one or more of these outputs of device 400 are applied. This output may be applied by routine controller 630 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that applying a particular one of these outputs does not require the user's implementation of the device 400 relative to the body part. For example, duration, speed, amplitude and temperature do not necessarily depend on the user applying pressure to the body part. On the other hand, the force applied by the attachment 628 may require the user to apply pressure to the body part to reach the target force. Also, the temperature may vary depending on whether the attachment 628 is applied to the body part or not, and the body part to which it is applied. Accordingly, the temperature may need to be adjusted during application of the attachment 628 to reach a desired temperature predetermined by the protocol. In other embodiments, the temperature may be adjusted by the user.

After period T ₂ , the user may be prompted to change attachment 628 , arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 , and/or grip positions 143 , 145 , 147 . These outputs may need to be implemented prior to starting phase 3 of the protocol. In the shin pain protocol shown in FIG. 45 , attachment 628 and arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 remain the same, but grips 143 , 145 , 147 are adjusted to the primary grip. In step 1528 , _{after period T 2} , the user is prompted to set the arm position to the designated arm position 632 , 634 , 636 . A user may be a person who uses the device 400 on his or her own body or on the body of another person.

Accordingly, in steps 1528-1534, substantially the same steps as in steps 1516-1522 are performed. After step 1534, step 3-4 is initiated in substantially the same manner as step 1-2. For example, steps 3 and 4 may be protocol 1 shown in FIG. 44 or steps 3 and 4 of the shin pain protocol shown in FIG. 45 . Moreover, step 1534 may be omitted in devices where none of the gripping, arm position or attachment can be sensed by the device. In this embodiment, the given protocol simply goes from step 1 to step 2 and prompts the user to make the change (but regardless of whether the user actually made the change).

As an alternative to FIG. 46C , FIG. 46D is a flowchart illustrating alternative two steps of the protocol. In an alternative step 2, force meter calibration is implemented.

Steps 1536-1538 are performed substantially the same as steps 1524-1526 of the previous step 2 above.

At step 1540 , the force applied by attachment 628 is monitored. 46D , method 1500 uses force meter 700 to monitor a force actually applied by a user.

In step 1542, the force is displayed to the user. In one embodiment, the force is displayed on an application interface 1584, such as a graphical user interface. In other embodiments, individual or combined use of application interface 1584 , touch screen 1582 , OLED screen 711 , etc. may be used to display the force.

At step 1546, the user is prompted to increase or decrease the force applied to the body part according to the specified protocol during _{T 2 .} 48 is a diagram illustrating a touchscreen 1582 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention of a force display. Force display 1590 shows an exemplary embodiment of step 1546 . Force display 1590 shows a series of force measurements over the course of the “Right Biceps” phase of the protocol. The force display prompt 1592 is used to display a message to the user such as "Pressure perfect: good job" when the force applied by the attachment 628 matches or corresponds to a target force predetermined by the protocol. In this embodiment, the force display prompt 1592 may display “increase the pressure” or the like if the measured force applied by the attachment 628 is lower than the target force predetermined by the protocol. Consequently, if the measured force applied by the attachment 628 is higher than the target force predetermined by the protocol, then the force display prompt 1592 may display “Reduce the pressure,” or the like. The user may then adjust the pressure the user applies to the body part to increase the pressure or decrease the pressure according to the force display prompt 1592 such that the measured force is equal to or substantially equal to the target force.

After period T ₂ , the user may be prompted to change attachment 628 , arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 , and/or grip positions 143 , 145 , 147 . These outputs may need to be implemented prior to starting phase 3 of the protocol. In the shin pain protocol shown in FIG. 45 , attachment 628 and arm positions 632 , 634 , 636 remain the same, but grips 143 , 145 , 147 are adjusted to the primary grip. In step 1528 , _{after period T 2} , the user is prompted to set the arm position to the designated arm position 632 , 634 , 636 . A user may be a person who uses the device 400 on his or her own body or on the body of another person.

Accordingly, in steps 1548-1552, substantially the same steps as in steps 1516-1522 are performed. After step 1534, step 3-4 is initiated in substantially the same manner as step 1-2. For example, steps 3 and 4 may be protocol 1 shown in FIG. 44 or steps 3 and 4 of the shin pain protocol shown in FIG. 45 .

47 is a diagram according to an exemplary embodiment of an application interface 1584 . At the top of the interface 1584 , a protocol field 1556 is displayed to the user. In this embodiment, the protocol field 1556 is "Turtleneck". The protocol name 1556 also indicates the overall duration of the protocol.

The next portion of the interface 1584 shows the step fields 1558-1568 of the protocol displayed to the user. In this embodiment, the step field identifies the name of the step and the duration of the step. For example, the title of the step field 1558 is “Right Biceps” (where treatment will be provided) and the activation period is “0:30 MIN”.

Interface 1584 also includes a current stage field 1570 that identifies a current stage name 1570 , a grasp name display 1572 , and an attachment name display 1574 .

Interface 1584 also includes a time display 1576 and time remaining display 1578 to present to the user how much time has elapsed during that phase and the time remaining in that phase. Finally, interface 1584 includes control fields 1580 for play, skip backward and skip forward between steps.

As previously discussed, FIG. 46 depicts a touchscreen 1582 on a mobile device. Touchscreen 1582 displays graphics representing start point 1586 “A” and end point 1588 “B”, thereby defining a treatment path, showing the user where to apply attachment 628 to a designated body part. is displayed. In FIG. 46 , the display instructs the user to move the attachment from the lower portion of the right biceps to the upper portion of the right biceps (treatment path) during the current phase. In some embodiments, during a single step, the user may be prompted or presented in a graphical user interface for more than one treatment route (or a first treatment route and a second treatment route) for the same body part/muscle or different body parts/muscles. may be For example, during the right biceps phase, the user may first be prompted to move the device along the path shown in FIG. 47 , but during the same 30 second phase also a path parallel to the path shown in FIG. 47 may be prompted or may be presented.

Although the operations of the method(s) herein have been shown and described in a particular order, the order of operations of each method is such that certain operations may be performed in a reverse order or certain operations may be performed at least partially concurrently with other operations. It may be changed. In other embodiments, instructions or sub-actions of separate actions may be implemented in an intermittent and/or alternating manner.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprises", "comprising" and the like are in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," as opposed to exclusive or exhaustive concepts. It should be interpreted as the concept of "not". As used herein, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variation thereof, refer to any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements, wherein the connection or coupling between the elements is a physical, logical or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,” and words of similar meaning, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any specific part of the application. Where the context permits, words in the above detailed description of preferred embodiments using the singular or plural may also include the plural or singular respectively. The word "or" in the context of a list of two or more items covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any item in the list, all items in the list, and any combination of items in the list.

Embodiments are contemplated in which any of the aspects, features, components or steps herein may be omitted and/or are optional. Moreover, where appropriate, any such optional aspect, feature, component or step described herein in connection with one aspect of the invention may be applied to another aspect of the invention.

The above detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above. Specific embodiments and examples of the present disclosure have been described above for purposes of illustration, and as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, although processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may employ systems having blocks or performing routines with steps in a different order, with some processes or blocks providing alternatives or subcombinations. may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, although processes or blocks are sometimes shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel, or may be performed at different times. Also, any specific numbers recited herein are by way of example only, and alternative embodiments may employ different values or ranges.

The above detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form disclosed above. Specific embodiments and examples of the present disclosure have been described above for purposes of illustration, and as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, any specific number recited herein is by way of example only, and alternative implementations may employ different values, measures, or ranges. It will be understood that any dimensions given herein are exemplary only and that neither the dimensions nor the descriptions limit the invention.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein may be applied to systems other than those necessarily described above. Elements and acts of the various embodiments described above may be combined to provide other embodiments.

All patents and applications and other references cited above, including any that may be listed in the accompanying application documents, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the present disclosure may be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions and concepts of the various references described above to provide still further embodiments of the disclosure.

These and other modifications may be made to the present disclosure in light of the above detailed description of the preferred embodiments. While the foregoing description describes particular embodiments of the present disclosure and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the foregoing description appears in the specification, the teachings may be practiced in many ways. The details of a system may vary significantly in its implementation details while still being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, a particular term used when describing a particular feature or aspect of the present disclosure is defined herein as such that the term is limited to any particular characteristic, feature, or aspect of the disclosure to which the term is associated. should not be considered as implying that In general, the terminology used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the present disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, unless the Detailed Description section of the preferred embodiment above explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the true scope of the present disclosure includes not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent methods of practicing or implementing the present disclosure under the claims.

While specific aspects of the disclosure are set forth below in specific claim form, the inventors contemplate various aspects of the disclosure in any number of claim form. For example, only one aspect of the present disclosure is subject to 35 U.S.C. Although detailed as a means-plus-function claim under §112 ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as a functional claim or in other forms, such as embodied in a computer-readable medium. (All claims intended to be dealt with under 35 USC §112 ¶6 will begin with the word “means for.”) Accordingly, Applicants are seeking to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects of the present disclosure. We reserve the right to add additional claims after filing this application.

Accordingly, while exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, all terms used herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and numerous changes, modifications, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It should be understood that this may be done by

Claims (39)

A percussive therapy device comprising:
housing,
everyone,
a motor located in the housing;
a switch for activating the motor; and
and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. The housing of claim 1 , wherein the housing includes first, second and third handle portions and a head portion cooperating to define a handle opening, the first handle portion defining a first axis, and the second handle portion defining a second defining an axis, the third handle portion defining a third axis, the first, second and third axes cooperatively forming a triangle, wherein the motor is located in the head portion of the housing, and at least of the push rod assembly Some of which extend to the outside of the head portion, percussive therapy device. The percussive therapy device of claim 2 , wherein the first handle portion is generally straight, the second handle portion is generally straight, and the third handle portion is generally straight. The percussive therapy device of claim 1 , further comprising a wirelessly connected device. The percussive therapy device of claim 1 , wherein the power source is a rechargeable battery and the percussive massage device further comprises a wireless charging receiver in electrical communication with the battery. The percussive therapy device of claim 1 , further comprising a touch screen. The device of claim 1 , wherein the motor is a brushless motor, a motor mount is located in the housing, the motor is fixed to the motor mount, and the motor mount is fixed to the housing. 8. The motor mount of claim 7, wherein the motor mount includes first and second sidewalls therebetween defining an interior of the motor mount, the motor being secured to the first sidewall, and the second sidewall being secured to the housing. , Percussive Therapy Device. 9. The motor mount according to claim 8, wherein the motor includes a motor shaft extending into the motor mount through a protrusion opening defined in the first sidewall of the motor mount, and at least a portion of the push rod assembly is disposed inside the motor mount. Positioned, percussive therapy device. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the attachment is coupled to the distal end of the push rod assembly, and wherein the attachment is applied to a first body part for a first period of time along a first treatment path and for a first time period for a second period along a second treatment path. or a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide user instructions to apply the attachment to a second body part. The percussive therapy device of claim 10 , wherein user commands are provided via a touchscreen on the percussive therapy device or an application on a remote electronic device. The method of claim 1 , wherein an attachment connected to a distal end of the push rod assembly, and for applying the attachment to a first body part for a first period of time and for applying the attachment to a first or a second body part for a second period of time a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide user instructions, wherein the routine controller is configured to reciprocate the attachment at a first speed during the first time period and at a second speed during the second time period; Percussive therapy device. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol for activating the motor for at least a first time period and a subsequent second time period, wherein during the first time period, the routine controller controls the first body part. first user instructions to perform a first task comprising at least one of treating, moving an attachment along a first treatment path, and connecting a first attachment to a distal end of the push rod assembly. wherein during the second period of time the routine controller is configured to treat a second body part, move the attachment along a second treatment path, and connect a second attachment to a distal end of the push rod assembly A percussive therapy device configured to provide second user instructions to perform a second task comprising at least one of: 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first user instructions are to treat the first body part, move the attachment along the first treatment path, connect the first attachment to a distal end of the push rod assembly. and gripping one of a first, second or third handle portion, wherein the second user commands are to treat the second body part, and to treat the second body part along the second treatment path. percussive comprising at least one of moving an attachment, connecting the second attachment to a distal end of the push rod assembly, and gripping one of the first, second or third handle portions. therapy device. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first user instructions are to treat the first body part, move the attachment along the first treatment path, connect the first attachment to a distal end of the push rod assembly. and applying a first target force, wherein the second user commands are to treat the second body part, move the attachment along the second treatment path, and 2 A percussive therapy device comprising at least one of connecting an attachment to a distal end of the push rod assembly, and applying the first target force or the second target force. The percussive therapy device of claim 13 , wherein the first and second user commands are provided via a touchscreen on the percussive therapy device or an application on a remote electronic device. The percussive therapy device according to claim 2, wherein the power source is a battery located in the second handle unit, and a wireless charging receiver in electrical communication with the battery is located in the third handle unit. A percussive massage device comprising:
housing;
everyone;
a motor located in the housing;
a switch for activating the motor; and
Initiate a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the percussive massage device in response to a user input, and initiate at least one step of the protocol in which the percussive massage device is applied according to the at least one output. A percussive massage device comprising a routine controller being 19. The method of claim 18, wherein said at least one output is one of a duration during which said percussive massage device is active, a velocity of an attachment of said percussive massage device, a force applied by said attachment, an amplitude of said attachment, and a temperature of said attachment. A percussive massage device comprising one or more. 19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: a force meter configured to monitor and display a force applied by an attachment of the percussive massage device, wherein the display of the force is provided to a user, wherein the user is responsible for at least one of the protocols. A percussive massage device, configured to be able to adjust the force to correspond to a target force to be applied during the step. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , further comprising an application configured to provide a user interface. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , further comprising a touchscreen configured to provide a user interface. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , wherein a user is prompted to use a designated grip of the percussive massage device. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , wherein a user is prompted to apply an attachment of the percussive massage device to a designated body part. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , wherein a user is prompted to set an arm position of the percussive massage device. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , wherein a user is prompted via at least one of haptic feedback, sound, visual representation and text during said at least one step to apply said at least one output. The percussive massage device of claim 18 , wherein the user is prompted to move the attachment from a starting point to an endpoint of a designated body part during at least one step of the protocol. A method of executing a routine for a percussive massage device, comprising:
initiating a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the percussive massage device in response to a user input; and
and executing at least one step of the protocol to which the percussive massage device is applied according to the at least one output. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least one output is: a specified period during which the percussive massage device is activated; a velocity of an attachment of the percussive massage device; a force of the attachment; an amplitude of the attachment; a type of attachment; a method comprising one or more of a temperature, an arm position of the percussive massage device, and a gripping of the percussive massage device. 29. The method of claim 28,
monitoring the force applied by the attachment of the percussive massage device; and
The method further comprising the step of displaying the force to a user. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the force is configured to be displayed to the user so that the user can adjust the force to correspond to a target force predetermined by at least one step of the protocol. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein a user is prompted to apply one or more of the at least one output during at least one step of the protocol. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the user input initiates the protocol via at least one of an application interface and a touchscreen. The method of claim 28 , wherein the protocol is configured to provide a therapeutic effect to one or more body parts of a user. A method of executing a routine for a percussive massage device comprising:
initiating a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the percussive massage device in response to a user input;
initiating at least one step of the protocol to which the percussive massage device is applied according to the at least one output;
- said at least one output comprises a duration during which said percussive massage device has been activated, a velocity of an attachment of said percussive massage device, an amplitude of said attachment, a force applied by said attachment, and a temperature applied by said attachment. do,
the percussive massage device is configured to provide a prompt to use designated grips of the percussive massage device and to apply the attachment to a designated body part when initiating the protocol;
monitoring the measured force applied by the attachment; and
displaying the measured force to a user, wherein the measured force is configured to be displayed to the user such that the user can adjust the applied force to correspond to a target force predetermined by at least one step of the protocol. Including method. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the user is prompted to set an arm position of the percussive massage device. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the user is prompted to apply the attachment to a new designated body part during at least one step of the protocol. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the user is prompted to attach a new attachment to the percussive massage device during at least one step of the protocol. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the user is prompted to move the attachment from a predetermined point on a body part to a second predetermined body part during at least one step of the protocol.

Images