WO2022038168A1

WO2022038168A1 - Massage device for massage by means of pressure waves, with finger depression

Info

Publication number: WO2022038168A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/072885
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simone KALZ
Original assignee: Fun Factory Gmbh
Priority date: 2020-08-18
Filing date: 2021-08-18
Publication date: 2022-02-24

Abstract

The invention relates to a massage device (1) for massage by means of pressure waves, having an elongate housing (3) with a grip portion (5) and with a head portion (7), wherein the head portion (7) has a massage side (9) and an operator control side (11) opposite the massage side (9), at least one chamber (17), which in the massage side (9) has an opening (15) leading to the outside and for placing onto a body region that is to be massaged, and a drive device (20) for changing the volume of the chamber (17), in order to generate a stimulating pressure field. The massage device (1) is characterized by a finger depression (13) which extends at least partially in a longitudinal direction (R1) of the massage device (1) on the operator control side (11) of the head portion (7) and is designed to receive a finger of a user. The invention also relates to a method for operating a massage device (1).

Description

Massage device for massage using pressure waves with finger recess

The invention relates to a massage device for massage by means of pressure waves, having an elongated housing with a handle section and a head section, the head section having a massage side and an operating side opposite the massage side, at least one chamber in the massage side having an opening leading to the outside for laying on a body site to be massaged, and drive means for varying the volume of the chamber to create a stimulating pressure field. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating a massage device.

It should be understood that in the following, to the extent that the masculine or feminine form is used, the feminine, masculine and/or diverse form should also be included. In particular, a user can also be female and/or diverse.

Various configurations of massage devices are known for massaging the human body, in particular for massaging erogenous zones such as the female clitoris. In order to enable a massage that is as gentle as possible and avoids habituation effects, so-called pressure wave massage devices are known in particular, which have at least one chamber with an opening for placing on a part of the body. A drive device changes the volume of this at least one chamber in such a way that a stimulating pressure field is generated in the chamber, which then has a massaging effect on the body part covered by the opening.

DE 10 2013 110 501 A1 discloses a stimulation device with a pressure field generating device for placement on a body part. A housing of the stimulation device is generally elongated. An opening for placing on the body part and an operating element of the massage device are arranged on the same side of the housing.

EP 3 228 297 A1 also discloses a pressure wave massage device for body parts, in particular erogenous zones, with a pressure field generating device with at least one opening for placement on a body part. A drive device changes the volume of a cavity connected to the opening in such a way that a stimulating pressure field is generated in the opening. On a first end section, a housing of this pressure wave massage device has a projecting extension which extends transversely to the longitudinal extent of the housing and on which the opening is arranged.

What the known devices have in common is that their housings are held during the massage in a way that is analogous to gripping a rod or a shower head. Massage of the intimate area requires a user's wrist to be flexed, which may result in wrist fatigue and/or wrist pain during use. Furthermore, due to the selected arrangement of the operating elements in the previously known stimulation devices, changing the stimulation or controlling the drive device during the massage is only possible with difficulty. In order to change the stimulation, a user's grip on the massage device must be changed, which is often found to be annoying during the massage. In the case of massage devices, it is generally desirable that they can be held as securely and ergonomically as possible. Here it is desirable that the massage device fits well in the hand of a user. Noisy or difficult-to-handle massage devices interfere with the massage. Therefore, the massage device itself, apart from the desired massage effect, should be perceived as little as possible.

The object of the present invention is to specify a massage device that can be used particularly ergonomically and allows a massage that is felt to be natural. The invention solves the problem in a first aspect in a massage device of the type mentioned by a finger recess which extends at least in sections in a longitudinal direction of the massage device on the operating side of the head section and is designed for placing a finger of a user. The longitudinal direction of the massage device characterizes a maximum geometric extension along a plane of symmetry of the massage device. When determining the plane of symmetry of the massage device, however, individual elements such as operating elements or design elements that oppose strict symmetry of the massage device to the plane of symmetry can preferably remain unconsidered. The head section adjoins the handle section in the longitudinal direction, it also being possible for further sections of the housing to be arranged between the head section and the handle section. Preferably, the finger cradle is a concave depression in the housing. The extent of the finger cavity is viewed in a spatial direction transverse to a depth direction of the finger cavity, with the largest continuous dimension being decisive in each case. The finger recess preferably extends in a straight line, for example in the form of a U-shaped longitudinal groove. However, the finger recess can also be curved, in particular arcuate, meandering and/or angular.

The housing (in this section) is rotationally asymmetrical about a longitudinal axis running in the longitudinal direction due to the section of the finger recess that extends in the longitudinal direction. However, other sections of the housing into which the finger recess does not extend can still be rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis. A trough, which converts a cylindrical base body into a dumbbell shape, runs, for example, in the circumferential direction and transversely to a longitudinal direction of the base cylinder, so that the dumbbell shape is rotationally symmetrical to a longitudinal axis. If, on the other hand, a trough runs in a longitudinal direction that connects the two flat surfaces of the cylinder, the resulting body is no longer rotationally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis running in the longitudinal direction.

The finger recess preferably serves to guide and position the head section, particularly during the massage. Furthermore, a pressure that is to be applied from the massage side to the part of the body to be massaged can be dosed particularly well during the massage by means of a finger placed in the finger recess. The massage is then perceived as very stimulating. The finger recess preferably has a rounded and/or essentially U-shaped cross section transverse to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the finger cradle is free of sharp edges and has a substantially kink-free surface formed. Furthermore, the finger recess preferably merges continuously into adjoining sections of the housing. By avoiding edges and/or a constant transition, the massage device can be guided in a particularly ergonomic manner by means of a finger resting in the finger recess. The finger cavity preferably has a cavity depth at a deepest point, measured perpendicularly to a base of the cavity, which is in a range from 5 mm to 40 mm, preferably 5 mm to 30 mm, more preferably 5 mm to 25 mm, particularly preferably 10 mm up to 25 mm. A longitudinal extension of the finger recess is preferably greater than transverse to the longitudinal direction of the massage device. The finger recess is preferably located at least in sections opposite the opening of the chamber leading to the outside. A particularly precise control can be achieved in this way. A depth direction of the finger recess is then preferably directed towards the opening. Preferably, an aperture central axis of the aperture, which is perpendicular to an aperture cross-sectional area of the aperture and preferably extends through a centroid of the aperture cross-sectional area, extends through the finger cavity. The central axis of the opening preferably extends transversely to the longitudinal direction of the massage device. The head section is preferably designed to keep the chamber free when operating forces are applied to the finger recess. A chamber that is kept free is always fluidly connected. The head section prevents the chamber from separating into sections. The chamber is preferably kept free if all chamber cross sections are always 10% or more of a respective chamber cross section area free. Operating forces are forces that are to be expected as part of normal operation. Although the chamber can be closed when excessive forces are applied, the chamber should remain free during regular use by an average user.

Furthermore, a base of the finger recess is preferably designed to transfer operating forces applied to the base essentially to sections of the head section arranged laterally to the finger recess in the longitudinal direction. A material thickness at the base of the finger recess is preferably adapted to prevent a finger being pressed through from the operating side to the massage side. However, it may be possible that applying compressive forces by means of an applied finger will deform the entire head portion. However, selective pressing through, which is perceived as unpleasant by a user, should preferably be prevented. The head section is preferably formed without thin-film areas. Thin-film areas are sub-areas of the head section that have a significantly lower material thickness than adjacent sub-areas. According to a first preferred development, the finger recess extends in the longitudinal direction essentially completely on the head section. The finger recess therefore preferably extends at least from a transition region between the head section and the grip section to an end of the head section which is opposite the grip section. Further preferably, the finger recess can also extend in sections on the handle section. By fully extending at the head portion, a sufficiently large contact surface for a user's finger is achieved. The finger can then rest over as large an area as possible and the massage device can be guided easily and precisely. The finger recess preferably extends into an area opposite the opening and/or into an area through which a central axis of the opening passes. Preferably, the deepest point of the finger trough is coaxial with or adjacent to the central axis of the opening.

The housing preferably has a transition region which is arranged in the longitudinal direction between the handle section and the head section. In such a configuration, the head section does not directly adjoin the handle section, but is separated from the handle section at least by the transition area. The transition area preferably connects the handle section to the head section. The housing can preferably be made in one piece or in several pieces. For example, the head section, handle section and/or transition area can be formed by different housing parts. Furthermore, the handle section, the head section and/or the transition area can also have several housing parts. For example, the head section can have several housing parts or housing shells, with a first housing part essentially forming the operating side and a second housing part essentially forming the massage side. The finger recess preferably extends at least in sections through the transition area.

The finger recess preferably has an end section with a U-shaped and/or V-shaped cross section, which is delimited at an end of the head section opposite the grip section by a rim protruding in relation to the finger recess. It is to be understood that the finger cradle may extend substantially entirely on the head portion even when bounded by the rim. The edge preferably prevents the user's finger from slipping out in the longitudinal direction. The user's finger is held in the finger cavity by the rim. If a substantially stretched finger and placed in the finger groove is moved in the longitudinal direction of the finger in the direction of the end section, a fingertip of the finger on the edge and prevents the finger from slipping out of the finger recess. The protruding edge is preferably used for placing and enclosing a fingertip of the finger. Thus, by means of the rim, directions in the longitudinal direction can also be transferred from the finger to the massage device. The edge preferably merges continuously into the side walls of the finger recess. Edges that are perceived as unpleasant by many users are then preferably missing.

In a preferred development, the finger recess runs out at a transition area between the handle section and the head section. At an end opposite the U-shaped end section, the finger recess is preferably not delimited by a wall, but merges into a surface of the grip section and/or the transition area. The depression depth of the finger depression preferably decreases steadily. However, side walls of the finger recess protruding from the surface of the grip section and/or the transition area can preferably also be continuously reduced.

In a preferred embodiment, the head section and the handle section are rigid at least in sections, with at least the transition area being flexible and elastically connecting the head section and the handle section. The rigid portions are configured to substantially resist deformation upon application of forces typical of use. However, rigid housing parts can still be formed from flexible material, for example if a support structure is provided and/or material thicknesses are selected accordingly. Forces that are usual in use are those forces that are usually applied by a hand of an average user guiding the massage device when massaging the intimate area. In normal use, the rigid sections resist macroscopic deformation that is immediately and clearly perceptible to the user. The transition area, on the other hand, is elastic and can be deformed during use by applying normal forces, so that a shape of the housing can be changed during use. The massage device can thus be optimally adapted to the user during operation and/or the massage effect can be influenced by the user. When forces are withdrawn, the housing returns to an initial shape (shape memory function) due to the elastic connection provided by the transition area between the head section and the handle section. A plastic or permanent deformation of the housing, which remains even after the force has been removed, is not intended (with the exception of minimal residual deformations) or is only possible by applying unusually high forces. the over gang area allows an elastic deformation of the housing and / or a relative change in position of the handle portion and head portion to each other. The head section is preferably bendable in the longitudinal direction. The transition area is preferably designed to be elastically deformed like an accordion. The transition area preferably has a lamellar, corrugated and/or fold structure. The rigid sections of the handle section and/or head section are preferably formed by rigid shells, which can also be enclosed by an elastic material. The transition region is preferably designed to be supplied essentially uniformly when operating forces are applied. However, it can also be provided that the transition region deforms non-uniformly in sections, for example in such a way that the application of a compressive force causes a relative rotation of the head section to the handle section.

In an alternative embodiment, the head section is inherently flexible. The head section is preferably reversibly deformable, in particular bendable. Preferably, the head portion can be bent in the longitudinal direction. For example, the head section can be flexibly deformed in order to ideally adapt it to the body shape of a user. Furthermore, a flexible head section allows pressure to be applied to the part of the body to be massaged, in particular even when the massage device is lying over the entire surface of the user's body. The head section is preferably formed at least in sections from a flexible plastic material, in particular silicone and/or medical silicone, so that it is preferably flexible in sections or completely. The head section can thus be deformed individually and returns to its original shape after a deforming force has been withdrawn. The opening can thus be easily compressed and/or changed in shape. A channel running inside can also be compressed. This allows the shape of the pressure field to be influenced independently of any set drive modes and thus varied individually. Preferably, the head portion is adapted to deform substantially uniformly upon application of operating forces. In this way, the entire head section can preferably be curved or twisted, while a punctiform or local deformation is essentially prevented. Punctual and/or local pressing through of a finger placed in the finger cavity is undesirable in the case of uniform deformation. Pressure can preferably also be applied by means of the head section, with excessive and selective pressure loading, which is perceived as being annoying, being prevented. Preferably, the head portion has a substantially uniform flexibility. An application of identical operating forces required then preferably a substantially identical deformation at different sections of the head portion. A shape memory function, which was explained above with reference to the transition region, is at least partially fulfilled by the head section in this variant. However, a flexible transition area can also be provided in this variant. What the variants with a flexible transition area and at least partially rigid head section or with a flexible head section have in common is that the flexible configuration of at least partial sections of the housing enables particularly user-specific use. The advantages mentioned above with regard to the flexible head section, such as influencing the pressure field by deforming a channel or applying pressure forces to the part of the body to be massaged, can also be achieved in the configuration with a flexible transition area and a head section that is rigid at least in sections.

The grip section is preferably rounded at a proximal end and designed to be held in the manner of a computer mouse. The handle section can then preferably be surrounded by the palm of the user's hand, with an outstretched finger, preferably an index and/or middle finger, resting in the finger cavity. The handle section preferably has a crowned and/or convex shape transversely to the longitudinal direction. Holding it in the manner of a computer mouse enables ergonomic handling and massage with an essentially stretched wrist. In this way, pain in the wrist that interferes with a massage sensation can be effectively prevented. Preferably, the finger recess can also be designed for placing two or more fingers.

In a preferred embodiment, the head section runs in a wedge shape in the longitudinal direction to an end opposite the handle section. The wedge shape preferably relates to the thickness of the head section, ie transverse to the central axis of the opening and measured between the massage side and the operating side. A thickness of the head section transverse to the massage side is then reduced, preferably continuously, up to the opposite end. The head section preferably also runs in a wedge shape transversely to the massage side. A slim design is achieved by the wedge shape of the head section. A massage device with a slim head section can be guided particularly precisely to a part of the body to be massaged. Furthermore, the fingertip of one (or more) fingers arranged in the finger hollow is particularly close to the part of the body to be massaged. The massage device is subjectively hardly noticed during use, resulting in a natural massage experience. In a preferred embodiment, the chamber on the operating side, preferably in the finger recess, has a modulation opening leading to the outside, which is preferably opposite the opening. According to this configuration, the chamber therefore has at least two openings leading to the outside. The opening on the massage side is used for placing on the part of the body to be massaged. The modulation opening enables the massage, in particular the stimulating pressure field, to be modulated by a user. By closing or releasing the modulation opening, pressure equalization and/or air exchange with the environment can be controlled. For example, the modulation opening can be completely closed by a user, so that a pressure field with maximum amplitudes can be applied to the part of the body to be massaged by means of the opening when the opening is placed on this part of the body. If, on the other hand, the modulation opening is fully or partially released, the amplitude of the pressure field is reduced, resulting in a different massage effect. Controlling via a modulation opening is particularly quick and easy, since the effect spreads immediately. A modulation opening opposite the opening also allows, with an appropriate size, for a user's finger to be guided through the chamber and used for direct stimulation. However, a modulation opening opposite the opening is also preferred, regardless of the size of the openings.

Preferably, the modulation opening is adapted to be closed by a user's finger. The modulation opening is preferably formed entirely or partially in the finger cavity. A modulation opening formed in the finger trough can be fired particularly safely by a finger, since the finger trough guides the finger and prevents the finger from slipping off. A particularly sensitive and precise control of the modulation is achieved. It should be understood that the closure only requires a largely sealing closure, with leakages also being able to occur, for example, in the case of high pressures or incorrect placement. The opening is closed essentially analogously to closing a drinking opening of a conventional drinks bottle by placing a finger on it, which prevents the liquid (for example water) in the bottle from escaping.

The chamber is preferably essentially T-shaped in the longitudinal direction of the massage device, with the opening and the modulation opening preferably being formed at opposite short ends of the T-shape. Preferably, the drive means acts on the chamber at a long end of the long leg of the T-shape a. For example, a section of a chamber wall which defines the chamber and is designed as a membrane and on which the drive device acts can be arranged at the long end of the T-shape. A substantially T-shaped chamber is not necessarily symmetrical. Thus, chambers with short legs of different lengths of the T-shape are also preferred. Furthermore, the limbs of the T-shape can also be curved and/or offset from one another.

In a preferred development, the modulation opening is delimited in sections or completely by an annular sealing bead. The sealing bead facilitates a tight seal and prevents unwanted pressure or vacuum from escaping from the chamber. The sealing bead is preferably formed from a flexible material, in particular silicone, at least in sections.

In a preferred embodiment, the drive means is located in the handle portion and coupled to an actuating portion of the chamber to act on and vary the volume thereof, the chamber being formed as a channel, preferably an elongate channel, with a central channel axis extending from the Operating section extends to the opening. Elongated means that its longitudinal extent is longer than its transverse extent, preferably by a multiple. The channel is preferably formed by the long leg and the short leg of the T-shape leading to the opening. In the case of massage devices, the drive device is usually one of the most voluminous components. By arranging the drive device in the handle section, a particularly slim design of the head section is made possible, which allows an ergonomic massage that is perceived as particularly pleasant. Furthermore, the drive device in the handle section is particularly protected against damage, in particular when the head section is flexible and/or narrow. The head section is preferably adapted to keep the channel free even when operating forces are applied.

Preferably, the channel is integrally formed in the head portion and bounded by a base material of the head portion. The channel is then not inserted into a cavity of the head section as a separate element, but formed integrally with the head section. The channel is preferably a cavity of the head portion extending from the opening to the actuation portion. This design is particularly resistant to damage and allows for cost-effective production. Furthermore, a Shape of the channel can be changed by deforming the head portion when the head portion is flexible. This enables the pressure field to be influenced and the massage effect to be individually controlled. Furthermore, the head section can be made particularly light. In addition, the spatial shape of the channel can be freely designed. The central channel axis is preferably curved. This allows greater freedom when arranging the operating section and the drive device, so that the massage device can be made particularly compact. Alternatively, the channel can also be formed, at least in sections, by a channel element that is separate from the base material of the head section. Preferably the channel member is rigid. In conjunction with a preferred flexible head portion, a rigid channel member can keep the channel clear while the surrounding area of the head portion is resiliently deformable. An opening cross-sectional area of the opening preferably encloses an angle in a range of greater than 0° to 90°, preferably 10° to 60°, preferably 15° to 45°, particularly preferably 15° to 30°, with an actuating axis of the actuating section in the non-deformed initial state of the massage device a. The actuation axis is that axis along which the actuation section is moved by means of the drive device. For a planar actuation section, the actuation axis is the surface-normal axis. The operating axis of the operating section is preferably perpendicular to the central axis of the housing. Due to the preferred angular arrangement, the massage device is particularly adapted to the anatomy of the female pubic area.

The duct can preferably be formed at least in sections from a duct housing. For example, a tubular duct housing can be embedded in the base material of the head section and thus keep the duct free. The channel housing is preferably essentially dimensionally stable. Closing of the channel can thus be prevented in a particularly effective manner, even when great forces are applied. In a preferred development, a channel cross section of the channel is essentially constant along the central channel axis. This enables a particularly simple manufacture and a uniform transmission of the pressure field to the part of the body to be massaged. However, it can also be provided that the channel cross section of the channel expands or narrows continuously along the channel axis in the direction of the opening. A widening channel counteracts an accidental closure of the channel, while a tapering channel enables a particularly precise application of the pressure field. The housing preferably has a curved central axis in the (undeformed) initial state. If the housing is deformed, for example in the flexible transition area, the central axis can also be straight during use. The central axis extends from an end of the handle section facing away from the head section to the end of the head section which faces away from the handle section. The central axis describes the shape of the massage device in the longitudinal direction. A curved central axis is particularly adapted to the female anatomy in the pubic area. Thus, the handle portion does not have to be held away from the body to achieve laying on of the head portion. This protects a user's wrist during the massage and is perceived as pleasant.

In a preferred development, a housing underside of the housing on which the massage side of the head section is arranged is essentially concave. Preferably, the housing has a seating portion adapted to rest on the user's body when the opening is placed on the user's clitoris. The massage device can thus be placed on the body while the opening is still placed on the clitoris. Controlling by means of the finger recess is particularly easy and the weight of the massage device is supported by the user's body. The user's wrist is protected during the massage and fatigue effects are prevented. An angle of curvature of the central axis in the initial state preferably has a value in a range from 90° to 180°, preferably approximately 120°.

The massage device preferably also has an operating unit for selecting a massage intensity, which is arranged in the finger recess. Preferably, the operating unit is designed for infinitely variable selection of the massage intensity. The massage intensity is determined by the drive device. If, for example, a particularly high massage intensity is to be selected, an amplitude of the change in volume of the chamber and/or a frequency of the change in volume can be increased. It should be understood that by means of the operating unit, the changing of the volume by means of the drive device is acted upon directly or indirectly. The operating unit preferably has an electronic control device or interacts with such a control device. The electronic control device is preferably designed to control the drive device in accordance with signals provided by the operating unit. The operating unit can also be designed to select a stimulation pattern that is pre-stored in the control device. Alternatively or additionally the operating unit can be or comprise a mechanical operating unit, in particular a mechanical switch or a potentiometer. By arranging the control unit in the finger recess, the massage intensity can also be selected during the massage. A grip position of the user's hand on the massage device does not have to be changed. Due to the particularly pronounced sense of touch on the fingers, dialing with the fingers arranged in the finger recess can be carried out particularly ergonomically and precisely. The operating unit is preferably arranged on the U-shaped end section of the finger recess. The operating unit then lies in the area of a user's fingertips during the massage and the ergonomics of the massage device are further improved. It can then be operated in a similar way to a computer mouse. The massage device is held in the palm of the hand. The control and selection then takes place by means of the user's fingers arranged in the finger recess. The operating unit preferably has one or more buttons, toggle switches, rotary switches and/or dials.

Alternatively or additionally, the operating unit can preferably also be arranged on a transverse side of the housing, which is transverse to the support side. The operating unit is particularly preferably arranged on a left transverse side. The left lateral side is that side of the housing which is a left side of the housing when looking at the housing from the handle section to the head section. This advantageously enables the operating unit to be operated with a user's thumb placed on it when the handle section is enclosed by the user's hand. However, it can also be provided that the operating unit is arranged both on the left transverse side and on a right transverse side of the housing opposite the left transverse side. For example, a massage intensity can be increased by means of a first control button of the control unit on the left transverse side, while a massage intensity can be reduced by means of a second control button of the control unit on the right transverse side.

In a preferred development, the operating unit is a touch operating unit. A touch control panel is a touch-sensitive control panel. The touch control unit is preferably a capacitive touch control unit. However, the touch control unit can also be designed as a resistive or piezo touch control unit. A touch control unit can be particularly advantageously integrated into the finger recess. Protruding buttons or other controls are preferably not provided. The operating unit is preferably designed to control the massage intensity in accordance with a stroking movement that the user executes on the operating unit. The massage intensity is a measure of the effect caused by the drive device. The massage intensity is preferably a frequency, amplitude, power and/or speed of the drive device and/or an active element connected to the drive device. The active element can be, for example, an actuation section of the chamber. A swipe movement is a movement of the body part, in particular the finger, which is used for control, relative to the operating unit. For example, a swipe motion is a finger swiping across a touch screen from a first contact point to a second contact point. The finger is in constant contact with the operating unit. The operating unit is preferably designed to determine a stroking length of a stroking movement and to control the massage intensity corresponding to the determined stroking length. A large stroke length then preferably corresponds to a large change in massage intensity. Furthermore, the operating unit is preferably designed to determine a stroking direction and to control the massage intensity as a function of the stroking direction. Thus, by stroking in a first direction, the massage intensity can be reduced and by stroking in a second direction, the massage intensity can be increased. The operating unit for controlling the massage intensity can preferably be designed in the manner of a computer mouse wheel of a computer mouse and/or in the manner of a touchpad of a computer. However, it can also be provided that the operating unit has several physical and/or touch switches. The massage intensity can then be increased, for example, by tapping a first touch switch once or multiple times, while the massage intensity is reduced by tapping a second touch switch once or multiple times.

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit is completely covered by a material that forms the contact surface of the finger recess for the user's finger. The operating unit is therefore preferably covered by a thin layer of material in such a way that operation is still possible. A massage device with a completely covered operating unit is improved in terms of cleaning and hygiene. Furthermore, the material of the contact surface is preferably a soft and supple material. Putting your fingers on is then felt to be particularly pleasant. The massage device is particularly preferably designed to be watertight overall. The waterproof design is preferred regardless of the type of control. In a second aspect, the invention achieves the object mentioned at the outset with a massage device for massaging the human body, having an elongate housing with a handle section and a head section, which adjoins the handle section in a longitudinal direction of the massage device, the handle section being designed to to be enclosed by a user's hand at least in sections for holding the massage device, and wherein the head section has a massage side and an operating side, a drive device for generating an effect serving for stimulation on the massage side of the head section, and an operating unit for controlling a massage intensity of the effect , wherein the operating unit is arranged on the operating side of the head section in such a way that the massage intensity can be controlled with a substantially stretched finger of the user's hand when the grip section is enclosed by the hand is. The operating unit is offset in the longitudinal direction to the handle section on the head section. The operating unit is therefore also exposed when the handle section is surrounded by a hand. Changing the grip position to control the massage intensity is not necessary. For example, a finger can be stretched out and used for steering, while the handle section is still securely enclosed. Both the massage side serving for the massage and the operating unit are formed on the head section. The operating unit is preferably arranged on an operating side of the head section which is opposite the massage side. The operating unit then lies opposite the body to be massaged and is particularly easy to access. The effect used for stimulation is preferably a vibration and/or a stimulating pressure field, which is applied to a part of the body to be massaged by means of the massage side of the head section. Preferably, the massage side of the head portion and the operation unit are arranged in a longitudinal direction measured from an opposite end of the massage device to the grip portion in a range of 30% or less of the entire length of the body of the massage device.

According to a first preferred development, the operating unit is a touch operating unit for gesture control. A gesture control uses intuitive gestures and movements of the user to control the massage intensity. The operating unit is preferably designed to control the massage intensity in accordance with a stroking movement that a user executes on the operating unit. It should be understood that a functionality of the control unit is essentially analogous to a functionality of Operating unit can be according to the first aspect of the invention. Therefore, reference is made here in full to the above description of the first aspect of the invention.

The operating unit is preferably arranged in a finger recess, which extends on the operating side in the longitudinal direction at least in sections on the head section and is designed for placing the user's finger. The operating unit is preferably arranged in a U-shaped end section of the finger recess, which is delimited by an edge. In a preferred embodiment, the operating unit is covered by a material of the finger recess. A finger recess adjoining the grip section in the longitudinal direction enables the massage device to be guided by means of the finger placed on it. At the same time, a guide finger resting in the finger recess can also be used to control the massage intensity.

The head section on the massage side is preferably made of a soft and supple material, with a contact surface of the guide groove being made of a second material that differs from the material of the head section on the massage side. The material of the inner wall of the guide groove is preferably a material which ensures adequate adhesion of the finger even when it is wet or damp. A contact surface for the finger, which is formed by the inner wall of the guide groove, preferably has surface structures for securely placing the finger. The surface structures are preferably ribs, knobs and/or lattice patterns.

The transition area is preferably formed from a flexible material and particularly preferably transitions into the massage side of the head section. The transition area and massage side of the head section are preferably designed in one piece. The transition area is then also formed from the soft and supple material. This makes it easier to manufacture the massage device. The transition area is particularly preferably made of silicone, in particular medical silicone, at least in sections.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, a center of mass of the massage devices according to the first aspect and/or according to the second aspect of the invention is arranged in the handle section. It is then particularly easy to guide the head section. Furthermore, it can be prevented that excessive by means of the massage side Compressive forces are applied to the body part to be massaged. The drive device of the massage device and an energy source, in particular a rechargeable battery, are particularly preferably arranged in the handle section. Typically, the drive device and the energy source make a significant contribution to the total weight of the massage device, so that arranging these components in the handle section shifts the center of gravity in the direction of the handle section or arranges it in the handle section. A control device, such as a circuit board, is also preferably arranged in the handle section.

The drive device is preferably an electromagnetic linear drive. Electromagnetic linear drives can be controlled precisely and individually. A drive frequency can thus be controlled essentially independently of an amplitude of the drive. This enables the generation of intense, varied stimulation effects that are perceived as particularly stimulating. The electromagnetic linear drive preferably has a movable magnet core. The magnetic core is particularly preferably guided parallel to a central axis of a coil of the drive device. Furthermore, the electromagnetic linear drive preferably has a voice coil. It can also be provided that the drive device has an electromagnetic pendulum drive, an eccentric drive and/or a connecting rod drive.

Preferably, the object mentioned at the outset can also be achieved with a massage device having a housing that is elongated in a longitudinal direction of the massage device, with a handle section for holding the massage device and a head section, which adjoins the handle section in the longitudinal direction, at least one chamber, which in the head section has a an outwardly leading opening for application to a body part to be massaged, and drive means for changing the volume of the chamber to generate a stimulating pressure field, characterized in that the housing is flat in the direction of an opening central axis of the opening. The housing is flat when the dimension parallel to the central axis of the opening is substantially less than the longitudinal and/or transverse dimension. The housing is preferably flatter in the area of the central axis of the opening than on a handle section, preferably the flattest. The opening central axis is perpendicular to an opening cross-sectional area of the opening. A maximum thickness of the housing, measured parallel to the central axis of the opening, is preferably in a range from 5% to 50%, preferably 10% to 40%, more preferably 10% to 35%, particularly preferably 15% to 30% of a length of the housing, measured in the longitudinal direction. Preferably points the housing has a minimum thickness at the opening, measured in the direction of the central axis of the opening. A width of the housing, measured transversely to the thickness and transversely to the longitudinal direction, is preferably also minimal in the region of the opening.

Furthermore, the object mentioned at the outset can also be preferably achieved with a massage device having a housing that is elongated in a longitudinal direction of the massage device with a handle section for holding the massage device and a head section that adjoins the handle section in the longitudinal direction, at least one chamber in the head section has an opening leading to the outside for placing on a part of the body to be massaged, a drive device for changing the volume of the chamber in order to generate a stimulating pressure field, and an operating unit for controlling the drive device, characterized in that the operating unit is arranged on a rear side of the opening is. The back of the opening is opposite that side of the opening which is placed on the part of the body to be massaged for the massage. It should be understood that the operating unit is not attached to the opening itself, but is arranged in spatial relation to the opening on the housing such that it faces the side of the opening which is placed on the body part to be massaged for massage. The operating unit is preferably arranged on the central axis and/or around the central axis of the opening. Provision can also be made for only one operating element of the operating unit to be arranged on the rear side of the opening.

The two aforementioned versions can also be combined with one or more of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

In a third aspect, the invention achieves the object mentioned at the outset with a massage device for massaging the human body, having an elongate housing with a handle section and a head section, which adjoins the handle section in a longitudinal direction of the massage device, the handle section being designed to to be enclosed at least in sections by a user's hand for holding the massage device, and wherein the head section has a massage side, with a transverse side of the housing being essentially transverse to the massage side, a drive device for generating an effect serving for stimulation on the massage side of the head section, and an operating unit for controlling a massage intensity of the effect, wherein the operating unit is on the transverse side of the body häuses is arranged that the control of the massage intensity can be done with a thumb and / or little finger of the user's hand when the handle portion is enclosed by the hand. It should be understood that a functionality of the operating unit can be essentially analogous to a functionality of the operating unit according to the first aspect of the invention and/or according to the second aspect of the invention. Therefore, reference is made here in full to the above description of the first aspect and second aspect of the invention.

In a fourth aspect, the invention solves the problem mentioned at the outset with a method for operating a massage device, preferably a massage device according to the first aspect of the invention, according to the second aspect of the invention or according to the third aspect of the invention, comprising the steps: detecting a first Contact point of a finger of a user with a touch control unit of the massage device; detecting a swiping movement of the finger on the touch control unit from the first point of contact to a second point of contact; determining a strike length between the first point of contact and the second point of contact; determining a strike direction between the first point of contact and the second point of contact; Controlling a massage intensity of the massage device using the determined stroke length and/or the detected stroke direction. The strike length is preferably the length of a straight, curved or tortuous connecting line connecting the first point of contact to the second point of contact. During the swipe movement, the finger is in constant contact with the touch control unit. The second contact point is the contact point to the touch control unit from which the finger is lifted. Furthermore, the second contact point can also be determined by the finger remaining there for a predefined period of time. For example, the finger may swipe from the first point of contact to the second point of contact, remain at the second point of contact for a period of time, and then swipe to a third point of contact. If the period of time for which the finger remains at the second contact point is greater than or equal to the predefined period of time, two swiping movements are preferably recorded. The first stroking movement is then the stroking movement from the first point of contact to the second point of contact and the second stroking movement is the movement from the second point of contact to the third point of contact. If, on the other hand, the time period is less than the predefined time period, then the entire swipe movement from the first point of contact to the third point of contact is determined to be one swipe movement. According to a first preferred development, the stroking length corresponds to a change in the amount of the massage intensity and/or a differentiation between an increase and a decrease in the massage intensity takes place as a function of the stroking length. A large stroke length therefore preferably brings about a large change in the amount of the massage intensity. Preferably, a stroking motion directed toward the grip portion causes a reduction in the massage intensity, and a stroking motion directed toward an end of the head portion opposite the grip portion causes an increase in the massage intensity. A reversal of the above-described mode of action is also preferred, so that a stroking movement directed in the direction of the grip section can also increase the intensity of the massage. The massage intensity is directly influenced by the drive device. For example, when using a pressure wave massage device according to the first aspect of the invention, a stroking movement toward the end of the head portion can cause an increase in the amplitude of the pressure waves. For example, a change in volume of the chamber can be increased. In an analogous manner, a stroking movement directed in the direction of the handle section can bring about a reduction in the volume change and/or a reduction in a frequency of the volume change. In a massage device that is provided for massage by means of vibrations on the massage side, the massage intensity can be changed, for example, by increasing/reducing a vibration frequency and/or vibration amplitude of the vibrations generated by the drive device. Controlling the massage effect is then similar to scrolling with a computer mouse and can be done particularly intuitively.

It should be understood that the massage device according to one of the first, second and third aspects, and the method according to the fourth aspect of the invention, have the same and similar sub-aspects as are particularly laid down in the dependent claims, so that the other preferred embodiments are also applicable of the massage device according to the second aspect of the invention and of the method, reference is made in full to the above description.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described below with reference to the drawings. These are not necessarily intended to represent the embodiments to scale, rather, where helpful in explanation, the drawings are presented in schematic and/or slightly distorted form. With regard to additions to the teachings immediately recognizable from the drawings, the relevant status of technique referenced. In this context, it should be taken into account that a wide range of modifications and changes relating to the form and the detail of the embodiments can be made without deviating from the general idea of the invention. The features of the invention disclosed in the description, in the drawings and in the claims can be essential for the further development of the invention both individually and in any combination. In addition, all combinations of at least two of the features disclosed in the description, the drawings and/or the claims fall within the scope of the invention. The general idea of the invention is not limited to the exact form or detail of the preferred embodiments shown and described below, or limited to a subject matter which would be limited compared to the subject matter claimed in the claims. In the case of specified design ranges, values within the specified limits should also be disclosed as limit values and be usable and stressable as required. For the sake of simplicity, the same reference numbers are used below for identical or similar parts or parts with an identical or similar function.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention result from the following description of the preferred embodiments and from the drawings. These show in:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a massage device according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the massage device according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a plan view of the massage device according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a bottom view of the massage device according to FIG. 1;

FIG. 5a shows a schematic representation which illustrates a stroking movement on a touch control unit in the direction of an end section;

FIG. 5b shows a schematic representation which illustrates a swiping movement on a touch operating unit away from an end section;

FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal sectional view of the massage device according to FIG. 1;

Figure 7a is a perspective view of a massage device according to a second

Embodiment in an undeformed initial state; FIG. 7b shows a side view of the massage device according to FIG. 7a in a deformed state;

FIG. 8a shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the head section with modulation opening; and in

FIG. 8b shows a sectional view of the head section with modulation opening according to FIG. 8a.

A massage device 1 has an elongate housing 3 with a handle section 5 and a head section 7 . The elongated housing 3 has a greater extension in the longitudinal direction R1 (FIG. 2) than in two directions R2, R3 (FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) transverse to the longitudinal direction. A length L of the housing is therefore greater than a maximum height H in the second direction R2 and a width B in the third direction R3. A thickness D, measured transversely to a central axis ZA of the massage device 1, and the maximum height H are not necessarily determined parallel to one another here, since the central axis ZA of the housing 3 is curved.

The head section 7 has a massage side 9 and an operating side 11 . The operating side 11 is opposite the massage side 9 . A left transverse side 8 and a right transverse side 10 of the housing 3 run essentially transversely to the massage side 9 (FIG. 3). Here the left transverse side 8 and the right transverse side 10 are convex. However, both lateral sides 8, 10 can be concave or one lateral side 8, 10 can be convex and the other lateral side 8, 10 can be concave. Furthermore, convex-concave transverse sides 8, 10 are also preferred. On the operating side 11, the head section 7 of the housing 3 has a finger recess 13 into which a user's finger can be placed (not shown). However, the finger recess 13 can also be designed for placing several adjacent fingers, for example the index finger and middle finger, of a user. When the fingers are placed in the finger recess 13, they are preferably surrounded by the finger recess 13 at least in sections. The finger recess 13 extends essentially in the longitudinal direction R1 on the operating side 11 of the head section 7. A depth T (FIG. 6) of the finger recess 13 is determined transversely to the operating side 11. The shape of the finger recess 13 is chosen so that the user's finger can be comfortably placed in the finger recess 13 . The finger recess 13 is therefore preferably designed without edges or essentially without kinks. On the massage side 9 opposite the finger recess 13 , the head section 7 has an opening 15 of a chamber 17 . The massage device 1 is designed as a pressure wave massage device 19 in this exemplary embodiment. For the massage, the opening 15 is placed on a part of the body to be massaged. As will be explained in detail later, a drive device 20 (FIG. 6) causes a change in volume of chamber 17. This change in volume causes a change in pressure in chamber 17, which can then be used to massage the part of the body covered by opening 15. The finger cavity 13 is the massage side 9, in particular the opening 15 of the chamber 17, opposite.

Here the finger recess 13 extends in the longitudinal direction R1 essentially completely on the head section 7 . The protruding edge 21 prevents the finger arranged in the finger recess 13 or the fingers arranged in the finger recess 13 from slipping out in the longitudinal direction R1. The protruding edge 21 merges steadily into side walls 23 of the finger recess 13, so that an end section 25 of the finger recess 13 is essentially U-shaped (FIG. 3). During a massage using the massage device 1, a finger placed in the finger recess 13 is enclosed at least in sections on three sides by the side walls 23 and the protruding edge 21, so that the finger can be effectively prevented from slipping out. A fingertip of the finger is then arranged in the area of the U-shaped end section 25 . Because the end portion 25 is immediately opposite the opening 15, the fingertip of the finger is placed in close proximity to the body site being massaged during use. The finger recess 13 thus allows a very direct massage, which many users find to be natural and stimulating.

The side walls 23 and the protruding edge 21 allow operating forces to be transferred from the finger placed in the finger recess 13 to the massage device 1 . The massage device 1 can be controlled and guided very precisely as a result.

The head section 7 transitions into the handle section 5 at a transition area 27 which is opposite the end section 25 of the finger recess 13 . The finger recess 13 runs out in this transition area 27 . The depth T of the finger trough 13, transverse to a base 25 of the finger trough 13, is continuously reduced. A height of the side walls 23 above the base 29 of the finger recess 13 also decreases steadily, so that the side walls 23 end in the transition area 27 . The transition area 27 is preferably in the middle of the Massage device 1 arranged. A length of the head section 7 then essentially corresponds to a length of the handle section 5.

The finger recess 13 has an essentially U-shaped cross section transverse to the longitudinal direction R1. On the one hand, this allows the finger to be placed comfortably and, on the other hand, it can be held more securely. The side walls 23 of the finger recess 13 preferably have an inclination to the base 29 which is in a range from 35° to 100°, preferably 35° to 90°, particularly preferably 35° to 70°. A particularly pleasant handling of the massage device 1 can be achieved both by the U-shaped cross section and by the ending of the finger recess 13 . Contact surfaces with a user's finger are rounded off and there are no sharp edges.

On the massage side 9 the opening 15 is delimited by a protruding lip 31 . The lip 31 enables the opening 15 to be placed in a sealing manner on the part of the body to be massaged. The lip 31 is preferably flexible and deformable, as a result of which it can be adapted to a contour of the part of the body to be massaged and a sealing closure of the opening 15 is facilitated. Pressure waves generated by changes in the volume of the chamber 17 can then be used particularly effectively for the massage.

The handle section 5 of the housing 3 is thicker than the head section 7 . Furthermore, the handle section 5 has a support area 33 . The support area 33 and the massage side 9 are arranged on the same side of the housing 3 . As a result, while the opening 15 is placed on the part of the body to be massaged, the contact area 33 can also be placed on the user's body. The total weight of the massage device 1 then does not have to be held entirely by the user's hand, which prevents the hand from tiring. The grip section 5 is preferably surrounded by the palm of a user's hand (not shown) and one or more extended fingers of the same hand are placed in the finger recess 13 . The massage device 1 is then preferably held in the manner of a computer mouse. For this purpose, a proximal end 28 of the handle section 5 is rounded. With this gripping position, the fingers of the user lie against a contact surface 35 which is formed by the side walls 23 , the base 29 , the end section 25 and the transition area 27 . It should be understood that the contact surface 35 can also be formed only by the finger recess 13 or its components.

A material 37 forming the contact surface 35 of the finger recess 13 also extends here into the transition region 27 and up to the grip section 5 (FIG. 3). The one from the material 37 of the finger recess 13 is essentially tongue-shaped and has a constriction in the transition area 27 transversely to the longitudinal direction R 1 .

The rest of the housing 3 is covered by a second material 39 in this exemplary embodiment.

The material 37 of the finger recess 13 is preferably a material that enables a particularly secure grip and is non-slip even when wet and/or damp. The contact surface 35 can also have surface structures, preferably ribs (not shown).

The second material 39 is soft and supple, so that it is felt to be comfortable when it is placed on the body. For example, the second material 39 can be a silicone material, particularly preferably medical silicone. The housing 3 is preferably designed to be watertight overall. The entire massage device 1 is preferably designed to be waterproof. The opening 15 of the chamber 17 then preferably represents the only opening of the chamber 17. In other preferred variants, the chamber 17 can also have several openings. A waterproof massage device 1 can be easily cleaned and can also be used under water, for example in the bathtub. The massage device 1 has two loading points 41 on an end 37 of the grip section 5 opposite the head section 7 . O-rings (not shown) are preferably provided for sealing the charging points 41 .

In the longitudinal direction R1, the head section 7 tapers in the shape of a wedge. The thickness D, measured perpendicularly to the central axis AZ of the housing 3 of the massage device 1 , is reduced starting from the transition area 27 to an end 43 of the head section 7 which is opposite the handle section 5 . A thickness D1 of the massage device 1 in the transition area 27 is therefore greater than a thickness D2 at the end 43 which is opposite the grip section 5 . The lip 31 surrounding the opening 15 is not taken into account when considering the decreasing thickness D. Due to the wedge shape, the massage device 1 is particularly slim in the area of the head section 7 . The massage device 1 can thus also be used on hard-to-reach parts of the body. Furthermore, contact with parts of the body that are not to be massaged, which is often perceived as annoying, is prevented.

Furthermore, the head section 7 is also wedge-shaped transversely to the thickness D (the second direction R2) and transversely to the longitudinal direction R1 (FIG. 3). The width B of the head section 7 in the third direction R3 is therefore also reduced starting from the transition area 27 to the end 43. The slender shape of the head section 7 is thereby further reinforced. However, it can also be provided that the head section 7 is wedge-shaped only in the third direction R3 or only in the second direction R2. A large width B of the head section 7 also enables a large-area contact with the part of the body to be massaged.

As described above, the central axis ZA of the housing 3 of the massage device 1 is curved. The massage side 9 of the head section 7 and the support area 33 of the handle section 5 are therefore arranged at an angle to one another. The opening 15 of the chamber 17 faces the handle section 5 at least partially. This shape of the housing 3 with a curved central axis AZ is particularly suitable for massaging the female intimate area. The support area 33 of the handle section 5 can be placed on the stomach of a user during the massage. The curved central axis ZA of the housing 3 then also allows the opening 15 to be placed in a sealing manner on the clitoris of a female user. An unergonomic holding of the massage device 1 with the handle section 5 protruding from the user's body is thus prevented by the curved central axis ZA. Overall, the housing 3 is approximately kidney-shaped in the side view shown in FIG. A housing underside 44 of the housing 3, on which the massage side 9 is arranged, is essentially concave in the longitudinal direction R1. A curvature angle β of the central axis, measured between a tangent to the central axis ZA at the proximal end 28 and a second tangent to the central axis ZA at the end 19 of the head section 7, has a value of approximately 150° (FIG. 2). A central axis of the opening is then in turn transverse, preferably essentially perpendicular, to the central axis ZA of the housing.

The head section 7 is flexible in relation to the handle section 5 and preferably also flexible in itself. Preferably, the handle portion 5 is essentially rigid. A flexible head portion 7 can be reversibly deformed. For example, a curvature of the central axis ZA in the area of the head section 7 can be changed. This enables the opening 15 to be positioned appropriately on the part of the body to be massaged. By bending or deforming the head section 7, the central axis ZA is curved and an angular position of the opening 15 or an opening cross-sectional area 45 of the opening 15 relative to the support area 33 of the handle section 5 is changed. Furthermore, pressure can be exerted on the part of the body to be massaged by means of the flexible head section 7 during the massage. In addition to the pressure waves, this directly applied pressure is used for stimulation. In particular, the pressure can be precisely controlled and applied in a particularly metered manner by a user's fingers placed in the finger recess 13 will. Finely adjustable pressure increases the intensity of the massage and is perceived as particularly natural. Precise application of pressure to the part of the body to be massaged is only possible with difficulty with conventional massage devices 1 that are held by a handle section 5 that is remote from the massage side 9 . The flexible head section 7 can preferably also be rotated relative to the grip section 5 about the longitudinal axis ZA. Furthermore, the flexible head portion 7 allows bending in the third direction R3.

Preferably, the entire head portion 7 is formed from a flexible material. If the head section 7 is formed from several materials, all materials or components and structures are preferably flexible.

An operating unit 47 of the massage device 1 is arranged in the finger recess 13 . Here the operating unit 47 is arranged on the U-shaped end section 25 . When the massage device 1 is held in the manner of a computer mouse, the user's fingertips lie in the U-shaped end section 25 on the contact surface 35 of the finger recess 13 . It is thus possible to control the massage device 1 using the fingertips, which are particularly sensitive and allow the operating unit 47 to be operated particularly precisely. The operating unit 47 is completely covered by the material 37 of the finger recess 13 . However, it can also be provided that the operating unit 47 is integrated into the contact surface 35 . The operating unit 47 is designed as a touch operating unit 49 . It is thus also possible to operate the massage device 1 when the operating unit 47 is covered by the material 37 . The touch operating unit 49 is designed without buttons and can also receive an operating specification specified by the user through the material 37 of the finger recess 13 . However, it can also be provided that buttons of the operating unit 47 are arranged under the material 37 of the finger recess 13 and can be pressed through the material 37 of the finger recess 13 . In order to make it easier to position the fingers over the operating unit 47 , the finger recess 13 has an optical marking 51 on the base 29 . Alternatively or additionally, the base 29 of the finger recess 13 can preferably also have a surface structure (not shown) which indicates a position of the operating unit 47 .

By arranging the operating unit 47 on the operating side 11 opposite the massage side 9, controlling the massage device 1 is felt to be particularly direct. The operating unit 47 is not decoupled from the massage side 9, but beard arranged to this. The fingertips are close to the part of the body to be massaged and can directly influence the intensity of the massage. This effect, which is perceived as pleasant, is further intensified by the wedge shape of the head section 7 .

The touch operating unit 49 is designed to control the drive device 20 by means of gesture control. The touch control unit 49 then controls the drive device 20 analogously to a stroking movement performed on the touch control unit 49 . If a user's finger strokes in the longitudinal direction R1 in the direction of the end section 25, a massage intensity generated by the drive device 20 is increased. On the other hand, if the finger moves away from the end section 25 in the longitudinal direction R1, the massage intensity is reduced. However, it can also be provided that the massage intensity is increased when stroking in the direction of the transition region 27 and is reduced when stroking in the direction of the end section 25 . Furthermore, the stroking movement can also take place transversely to the longitudinal direction R1. Figures 5a and 5b illustrate the gesture control. In FIG. 5a, a stroking movement SB is executed in a serpentine manner from a first contact point 79 on the operating unit 47 to a second contact point 81. Here, the stroke length SL of the stroke movement SB is recorded by the operating unit 47 . Only the direct connection between the first contact point 79 and the second contact point 81, illustrated by means of a dashed line 83, is relevant for the length of the stroking movement. However, it can also be provided that the entire length of the serpentine stroking movement SB is recorded. In FIG. 5a, the stroking movement SB is directed in the direction of the end section 25. A massage intensity generated by the drive device 20 is thus increased relative to the stroke length SL. FIG. 5b illustrates a second stroking movement SB2, only the direct connection being shown here. A second strike SL2 of the second strike SB2 is identical to the first strike SL. However, the second stroke SB2 is directed away from the end portion 25. The second sweeping movement SB2 thus takes place from the second contact point 81 to the first contact point 79. Furthermore, the second sweeping movement SB2 is interrupted at a third contact point 83. A period of time for which a body part used for operation has been held at the third contact point 83 is less than a predefined period of time, so that the second swipe SB2 is detected as only a swipe. If, on the other hand, the period of time for which the body part used for operation is held at the third contact point 83, then the second swipe movement is recorded by the operating unit 47 as separate swipe movements SB2.1 and SB2.2, the partial stroke lengths SL2.1, SL2.2 exhibit. The gesture control of the operating unit 47 is similar to operating a mouse wheel on a computer mouse. A particularly intuitive control of the massage device 1 can thus be achieved by means of the touch control unit 49 . Furthermore, the touch operating unit 49 has no buttons. Controlling the massage device 1 by means of gesture control also prevents the massage device 1 from being inadvertently controlled, as can happen with simple buttons. For example, buttons can simply be pressed, whereas gesture control involves a swipe movement. By covering the operating unit 47 with the material 37 of the finger recess 13, the operating unit 47 is protected from damage and cleaning of the massage device 1 is made easier. However, the ability to clean touch control units 49 is also advantageous compared to buttons if the touch control unit 49 is not covered by the material 37 of the finger recess 13 . Thus, in contrast to buttons, touch operating units 49 do not have any components that can be moved relative to one another, which would necessarily result in the presence of gaps that are difficult to clean. Furthermore, the touch control unit 49 has a flat design. The head section 7 can then be made particularly slim.

FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal section through the massage device 1 . The section runs along the course of the central axis ZA shown in Figure 3 and centrally through the finger recess 13. On the operating side 11 of the head section 7, the contour of the housing 3 shows the edge 21 and the base 29 of the finger recess 13. The side walls 23 of the finger recess are indicated by a dashed line, which extends from the edge 21 to the transition area 27 of the massage device 1. The sectional view illustrates the end of the finger recess 13 in the transition area 27. The depth T of the finger recess 13 reduces starting from the end section 25 to the transition area 27. The contour of the housing on the operating side 11 is continuous and designed without edges.

The operating unit 47 is arranged in the end section 25 of the finger recess 13 and is covered by the material 37 of the finger recess 13 . An electrical line 53 connects the operating unit 47 to a control unit 55 of the massage device 1 . The control unit 55 is a circuit board 57 here, which processes signals provided by the touch control unit 49 . The control unit 41 controls the drive device 20 connected to it in accordance with an operating specification provided by the user. For this purpose, the control unit 41 and the drive device 20 are connected by means of additional lines 59 . An operating specification is, for example, a swipe movement as described above. Furthermore, the operating specification can also be a repeated tapping of the operating unit 47 in quick succession. In this way, repeated tapping of the operating unit 47 serve, for example, to switch the drive device 20 on and/or off. Furthermore, the control unit 41 is connected to an energy source 61 which is a rechargeable accumulator 63 here. The energy source 43 is connected to the charging points 41 by additional lines 59 and can be charged by connecting an external charging device (not shown).

Both the control unit 55 and the drive device 20 and the energy source 61 are arranged in the handle section 5 . These components account for a large part of the total weight of the massage device 1 . Arranging the drive device 20 , the energy source 61 and the control unit 55 in the handle section 5 means that a center of mass SP of the massage device 1 is located in the handle section 5 . However, the center of mass SP can also be in the handle section 5 if only some of the components mentioned are arranged in the handle section 5 . The center of mass SP located in the handle section 5 enables a particularly simple handling of the massage device 1. Only small forces are required to move the head section 7. FIG. Furthermore, the head portion 5 can be placed on the user's body by means of the supporting portion 33 and the weight can be supported. In addition, the center of mass SP is arranged at a distance from the head section 7 . This can prevent pressure on the part of the body to be massaged, which is difficult to influence and which is caused by the weight of the massage device 1 itself.

The drive device 20 is designed as an electromagnetic linear drive 65 . Here, the electromagnetic linear drive 65 has a coil element 67 and a magnetic core 69 that is guided parallel to a central axis of the coil element 67 . However, it can also be provided that the coil element 67 is designed as a voice coil, while the magnetic core 69 is designed to be immovable. The magnet core 69 is connected directly to an actuating section 71 of the chamber 17 . If a corresponding user specification is provided by means of the operating unit 47, the control unit 55 energizes the drive device 20. The current-carrying coil element 67 induces a magnetic field, which moves the magnetic core 69. The magnetic core 69 then acts on the actuating section 71 of the chamber 17 and thus changes the volume of the chamber 17. By suitably energizing the coil element 67, a reciprocating movement of the magnetic core 69 can be achieved, which then generates a field of alternating pressure waves in the chamber 17 caused. Here the actuating section 71 is a diaphragm 73 formed integrally with the chamber 17. However, it can also be provided that the actuating section 71 is displaced in the chamber 17 in the manner of a piston. Alternatively can the drive device 20 can also be designed as a pendulum, connecting rod and/or eccentric drive, preferably as a pendulum, connecting rod and/or eccentric drive driven by an electric motor. Furthermore, the drive device 20 can preferably have a connecting rod drive, pendulum drive and/or eccentric drive as well as a linear drive 65 .

The chamber 17 is essentially elongated. This enables the drive device 20 to be arranged in the handle section 5, while the opening 15 is formed on the massage side 9 of the head section 7. The chamber 17 is thus an elongate channel 75 which has a channel axis K. FIG. The channel axis K is curved such that the opening cross-sectional area 45 of the opening 15 and the actuation portion 71 are arranged at an angle to one another. An angle a enclosed by an actuation axis BA of the actuation section 71 and the opening cross-sectional area 45 has a value of approximately 25° here. The opening cross-sectional area 45 at least partially faces the handle section 5, as a result of which the above-described ergonomic handling is achieved. The selected opening angle a then still allows the membrane 73 to be arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction R1. Inertia effects caused by the drive device 20 act essentially parallel to the support area 33 of the handle section 5 and are not transmitted to the user's body. The actuation axis BA is perpendicular or normal to the surface of the actuation section 71 . The actuation section 71 is moved and/or deformed by the drive device 20 essentially along this actuation axis BA. The channel 75 is slim in design transversely to the longitudinal direction R1. A cross-sectional area of the channel 75 transverse to the channel axis K is essentially constant.

The channel 75 is formed integrally with the head portion 5 here. Walls of the channel 75 are thus formed directly from a base material 77 of the head section 7 . The head section 7 can thus be designed to be flexible overall without the channel 75 being damaged when the head section 7 is deformed. The line 53, which connects the operating unit 47 to the control unit 55, is also flexible and can follow a deformation of the head section 7. However, it can also be provided that the line 53 is laid loosely or with loops and can thus compensate for a certain change in length. Furthermore, the line 53 is preferably laid along the central axis ZA, so that the line 53 only undergoes minor deformations when the head section 7 is deformed.

FIG. 7a shows a massage device 1 according to a second embodiment, wherein the internal structure (drive device 20, chamber 17, etc.) of the massage device 1 can be formed essentially analogously to the first embodiment. The massage device In this variant, device 1 also has an elongated housing 3 with a handle section 5 and a head section 7, which preferably tapers in a wedge shape in the longitudinal direction R1. The transition area 27 is arranged between the handle section 5 and the head section 7 of the massage device 1 . This initially extends in the longitudinal direction R1 from the handle section 5 and the head section 7 in turn extends in the longitudinal direction R1 from the transition area 27. On the operating side 11, the head section 7 has the finger recess 13, which extends from the edge 21 via the transition area 27 to the handle section 5 extends. In this embodiment, too, the finger recess 13 tapers continuously on the handle section 5, in order to enable a particularly comfortable application of a finger when the massage device is held in the manner of a computer mouse, with the palm of a user's hand resting on the handle section 5 comes.

The operating unit 47 is embodied here as a pushbutton 85, which is embodied both for switching the drive device 20 arranged in the housing 3 on and off, and preferably for switching between different pre-stored drive patterns. The drive device 20 acts on the actuation section 71 of the chamber 17 depending on the selected drive pattern, so that different massage effects can be achieved by changing between different drive patterns. The operating unit 47 is arranged on the left transverse side 8 of the housing 3 on the handle section 5 . If a user grips the massage device 1 with the right hand in the manner of a computer mouse, the thumb of the right hand comes into contact with the housing 3 in the area of the operating unit 47, so that the user can operate the massage device 1 can be controlled by means of the operating unit 85 without having to change the position of the hand. The operation of the massage device 1 is particularly easy, ergonomic and intuitive. In addition to or as an alternative to the push button 85 , the massage device 1 can preferably have the touch control unit 49 or other control units, or control units at other points on the massage device 1 . In principle, wireless operating units are also preferred.

The handle portion 5 of the housing 3 of the massage device 1 is rigid. For example, the handle portion 5 may be formed from an inflexible plastic material so that it is adapted to resist deformation under the application of normal forces. Due to its rigid design, the handle section 5 does not deform during operation and the massage device 1 can be held particularly securely. The housing 3 of the second embodiment has a multi-part design on the head section 7 . The operating side 11 with the finger recess 13 is formed by a rigid housing shell 87 . The housing shell 87 can be formed from an inflexible plastic material, for example, which is preferably identical to the material of the handle section 5 . The massage side 9 is made of a soft and supple material, such as silicone. The material of the massage side 9 can be flexible overall. However, due to the rigid housing shell 87, the head portion 7 is substantially rigid and resists deformation. The head section 7 is only slightly deformed by the forces of use that are normal during operation, with deformations possibly occurring essentially in the area of the opening 15 and thus facilitating a tight placement of the opening on a part of the body to be massaged. Despite this possible slight deformability on the massage side 9, the head section is considered to be essentially rigid.

The transition region 27, on the other hand, is designed to be flexible. In the embodiment according to FIG. In this embodiment, the material of the massage side 9 preferably transitions into the transition area 27, so that the transition area 27 and the massage side 9 of the head section 7 are preferably in one piece, which simplifies the manufacture of the massage device 1. The transition region 27 connects the head section 7 elastically to the handle section 5. The position of the head section 7 relative to the handle section 5 can be changed by applying normal usage forces, for example by exerting pressure with a finger held in the finger recess 13. For example, a curvature of the central axis ZA can be changed or the head section 7 can be rotated about the central axis ZA. The change in shape is preferably achieved essentially by deforming the transition area 27 . The flexible transition area 27 thus allows the shape of the housing 3 to be changed while the shape of the rigid head section 7 and the rigid handle section 5 is essentially retained. The massage device 1 can thus be adapted particularly precisely to the needs of a user. However, it can also be provided that the head section 7 and/or the grip section 5 are designed to be partially flexible as an alternative or in addition.

The housing 3 preferably has a structure of lamellae 89 in the transition area 27 . The lamellae 89 facilitate deformation of the transition area 27 and prevent buckling of the housing 3 during such a deformation. Fins 89 are not necessarily separate elements. Rather, the lamellae 89 are formed in one piece here, wherein the transition area 27 forms a wave-like surface structure. The one-piece structure of the transition area 27 prevents the ingress of dirt and makes it easier to clean the massage device 1 .

FIG. 7a shows the housing 3 in an undeformed initial state 91. The central axis ZA of the housing 3 is curved in an arc. Even in the initial state, the support area 33 of the handle section 5 and the massage side 9 of the head section 7 are arranged at an angle to one another. Like the massage device 1 of the first embodiment, the housing 3 is already in the initial state 91 particularly adapted for massaging the female genital area. A change in shape of the housing 3 takes place elastically. FIG. 7b shows the housing 3 in an exemplary deformed state, the initial state 91 being indicated schematically. The central axis ZA of the housing 3 is significantly more curved compared to the undeformed initial state 91, with the massage side 9 of the head section 7 and the contact area 33 of the handle section 5 forming an angle of approximately 120° with one another. The shape of the rigid handle portion 5 and the rigid head portion 7 are essentially unchanged compared to the undeformed initial state 91, whereas the flexible transition area 27 was deformed to achieve the shape change. The lamellae 89 allow an accordion-like deformation of the transition region 27. Due to the elastic deformability, the massage device 1 can be optimally adapted to the body part to be massaged in different massage positions.

FIG. 8a shows an embodiment of the head section 7 which (with the modifications that may be necessary) can be used as an alternative to the head sections 7 of the two aforementioned exemplary embodiments of the massage device 1. The chamber 17 has a modulation opening 93 here in addition to the opening 15 . The modulation opening 93 is formed in the operating side 11 of the head section 7 and faces the opening 15 formed in the massage side 9 . The modulation opening 93 is arranged in the finger cavity 13 . The finger recess 13 is delimited by the side walls 23 but, in contrast to the above-mentioned embodiments, at the end 19 opposite the grip section 5 by the protruding edge 21 . In other preferred configurations of the massage device 1 with modulation opening 93 , however, the finger recess 13 can also be delimited by the edge 21 .

The modulation opening 93 connects the chamber 17 to the environment, so that no pressure field is formed when the chamber 17 is enlarged and reduced by the drive device 20 (not shown in FIG. 8a). During operation, the modulation opening can be 93 closed by placing a finger. If the opening 15 is now applied to the part of the body to be massaged and the volume of the chamber is changed, a changing pressure field is formed in the chamber 15, which is used to massage the part of the body. The level of the occurring negative and positive pressures (the amplitudes of the pressure field) can be varied by partially releasing the modulation opening 93 . If, for example, in the case of overpressure in the chamber 17, the modulation opening 93 is partially opened, part of the pressure escapes and the pressure effect on the part of the body to be massaged decreases. Similarly, in negative pressure phases, air flows from the outside into the chamber and a vacuum in the chamber 17 is at least partially released. When the opening 15 is largely tightly closed, the degree of pressure equalization is essentially determined by the degree to which the modulation opening 93 is closed. The modulation opening can thus be used to modulate the pressure field used for the massage or the pressure waves used for the massage. In order to facilitate the sealing closure of the modulation opening 93, this is delimited by a sealing bead 95. By arranging the modulation opening 93 in the end section 25, the massage device 1 can be controlled particularly intuitively, since a particularly sensitive fingertip of a finger placed in the finger recess 13 can then be used to close and release the modulation opening 93 when the massage device 1 is operated in the manner of a computer mouse is held. Furthermore, a finger can be used through the chamber 17 (or through the opening 15 and the modulation opening 93) for direct stimulation.

FIG. 8b shows a sectional view of the head section 7 according to FIG. 8a. The chamber 17 has a substantially T-shaped cross section. The diaphragm 73 is positioned at a long end 97 of a long leg 99 of the T-shape and can be repositioned by the drive means 20 (not shown) to vary the volume of the chamber. The long leg 99 is essentially straight here, with its flow cross-section (transverse to the sectional view according to FIG. 8b) decreasing towards the openings 15, 93. Alternatively, the long leg 99 can also have an expanding flow cross-section or a constant flow cross-section. Furthermore, the long leg 99 can also be curved or wavy. In addition, the chamber 17 can also have a cross section other than a T-shape. The modulation opening 93 and the opening 15 are arranged at short ends 101, 103 of short legs 105, 107 of the T-shape. The opening 15 has a substantially oval opening cross-sectional area 109 . A central opening axis ZAO of the opening 15 extends perpendicularly to the opening cross-sectional area 109 through a centroid of the opening cross-sectional area 109. The opening central axis ZAO of the opening 15 extends through the finger recess 13. The opening central axis ZAO decisively influences an effective direction of the pressure field used for the massage. The central opening axis ZAO, which extends through the finger recess 13, enables a user to control the massage device 1 particularly directly and precisely. A modulation opening center axis ZAMO, which is perpendicular to an opening cross-sectional area of the modulation opening 93, intersects with the opening center axis ZAO. The central opening axis ZAO and the central modulation opening axis ZAMO preferably enclose an angle in a range of less than 45°, particularly preferably less than 30°. The central opening axis ZAO and the central modulation opening axis ZAMO can preferably also be congruent or parallel to one another.

Claims

- 37 - Claims

Massage device (1) for massage by means of pressure waves, having an elongate housing (3) with a handle section (5) and a head section (7), the head section (7) having a massage side (9) and one opposite the massage side (9). operating side (11), at least one chamber (17), which has an opening (15) leading to the outside in the massage side (9) for placing on a part of the body to be massaged, and a drive device (20) for changing the volume of the chamber ( 17) to generate a stimulating pressure field, characterized by a finger recess (13) which extends at least in sections in a longitudinal direction (R1) of the massage device (1) on the operating side (11) of the head section (7) and for placing a finger a user is trained.

2. Massage device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the finger recess (13) in the longitudinal direction (R1) extends substantially completely on the head section (7).

3. Massage device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing (3) has a transition area (27) which is arranged in the longitudinal direction (R1) between the handle section (5) and the head section (7).

4. Massage device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the finger recess (13) has a cross-sectionally U-shaped end section (25) which is located at an end (19) of the head section (7) opposite the handle section (5). is delimited by an edge (21) protruding in relation to the finger recess (13).

5. Massage device (1) according to claim 4, wherein the head section (7) and the handle section (5) are rigid at least in sections, with at least the transition region (27) being flexible and the head section (7) and the handle section (5) connects elastically.

6. Massage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, wherein the head portion (7) is flexible in itself. - 38 -

7. Massage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the head portion (7) in the longitudinal direction (R1) to a handle portion (5) opposite end (19) tapers in a wedge shape.

8. Massage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the chamber (17) in the operating side (11), preferably in the finger recess (13), has a modulation opening (93) leading to the outside, which preferably corresponds to the opening (15) opposite.

9. Massage device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the chamber (17) in the longitudinal direction (R1) of the massage device (1) is substantially T-shaped, and wherein the opening (15) and the modulation opening (93) are preferably on opposite sides short ends (101, 103) of the T-shape are formed.

10. Massage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the drive device (20) is arranged in the handle section (5) and is coupled to an actuating section (71) of the chamber (17) in order to act on it and change its volume, and wherein the chamber (17) is designed as an elongate channel (75) with a central channel axis (K) which extends from the actuating section (73) to the opening (15), the central channel axis (K) preferably being curved , and wherein a channel cross section of the channel (75) along the central channel axis (K) is preferably substantially constant.

11. Massage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (3) has a curved central axis (ZA), wherein a housing underside (44) of the housing (3) on which the massage side (9) of the head section (7) is arranged, is preferably substantially concave, and wherein the housing (3) preferably has a bearing portion (33) adapted to rest on the user's body when the opening (15) is placed on the user's clitoris.

12. Massage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit (47) for selecting a massage intensity, which is arranged in the finger recess (13), wherein the control unit (47) is preferably a touch control unit (49) which is preferably at least partially, preferably completely, covered by a material (37) which forms a contact surface (35) of the finger recess (13) for the user's finger.

13. Massage device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the head section (7) on the massage side (9) is formed from a soft and supple material, and wherein a contact surface (35) of the finger recess (13) made of a second material ( 37) which differs from the material of the head section (7) on the massage side (9).

14. Massage device (1) according to claim 3 and 13, wherein the transition area (27) is formed from a flexible material and preferably merges into the massage side (9) of the head section (7).

15. A method for operating a massage device (1), preferably a massage device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps:

detecting a first contact point of a finger of a user with a touch control unit (49) of the massage device (1);

detecting a swipe movement of the finger on the touch control unit (49) from the first contact point to a second contact point;

determining a strike length between the first point of contact and the second point of contact;

determining a strike direction between the first point of contact and the second point of contact

Controlling a massage intensity of the massage device (1) using the determined stroke length and/or the detected stroke direction, the stroke length preferably corresponding to a change in the amount of the massage intensity and/or wherein a differentiation between an increase and a decrease preferably takes place as a function of the stroke length .