WO2023025923A1 - Massage device with piston support elements - Google Patents

Massage device with piston support elements Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023025923A1
WO2023025923A1 PCT/EP2022/073746 EP2022073746W WO2023025923A1 WO 2023025923 A1 WO2023025923 A1 WO 2023025923A1 EP 2022073746 W EP2022073746 W EP 2022073746W WO 2023025923 A1 WO2023025923 A1 WO 2023025923A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
piston
support element
massage device
axial direction
connecting means
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2022/073746
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Bostjan Buc
Original Assignee
Bb3000M D.O.O.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Bb3000M D.O.O. filed Critical Bb3000M D.O.O.
Publication of WO2023025923A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023025923A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H9/00—Pneumatic or hydraulic massage
    • A61H9/005—Pneumatic massage
    • A61H9/0057—Suction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/006—Percussion or tapping massage
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
    • A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0107—Constructive details modular
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0119—Support for the device
    • A61H2201/013—Suction cups
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0119—Support for the device
    • A61H2201/0153—Support for the device hand-held
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/14—Special force transmission means, i.e. between the driving means and the interface with the user
    • A61H2201/1436—Special crank assembly
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/14—Special force transmission means, i.e. between the driving means and the interface with the user
    • A61H2201/1481—Special movement conversion means
    • A61H2201/149—Special movement conversion means rotation-linear or vice versa

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a massage device, a method of assembling same, and use of a connection means for connecting a piston a connecting rod of an actuator.
  • a massage device for applying pressure to the body with a reciprocating motion of an applicator head is known from US 10,314,762 B1.
  • the applicator head is coupled to a piston, which is connected to a reciprocating linkage.
  • the piston is engaged to the reciprocating linkage with a setscrew.
  • the piston is guided in one mounting sleeve arranged in a cylindrical bore.
  • the object of the present invention is to provide an improved massage device and a method of operation same.
  • the invention provides a massage device comprising an actuator arranged in a rear part of the massage device and a piston arranged in a front part of the massage device, wherein the actuator is configured to effect a reciprocating movement of the piston in an axial direction of the piston from a retracted first end position to an extended second end position, wherein the piston is more distant from the rear part of the massage device when the piston is in the extended second end position than when the piston is in the retracted first end position.
  • the reciprocating movement may be a linear motion.
  • the massage device further comprises a connecting rod connecting the piston and the actuator, wherein the connecting rod and the piston are connected via a connecting means, wherein the connecting means comprises a transverse middle axis perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston, wherein the piston is configured to be guided within a first support element contacting the piston along a first length in the axial direction, wherein the massage device is adapted such that when the piston is in the retracted first end position, the transverse middle axis of the connecting means is more distant from the rear part of the massage device than from an axial middle of the first length of the first support element.
  • connection means transmits the reciprocating force to the piston at a location more distant from the rear part of the massage device than the first support element, such that the piston is supported by the first support element in between the location in which the reciprocating force is transmitted and its rear end.
  • This may enable to prevent undesired tilting of the piston out of its orientation in the axial direction.
  • support forces to the piston may be provided with an improved leverage over the first support element. This may improve the stability of the reciprocating movement of the piston in the axial direction. Accordingly, less vibration superposing the reciprocating movement and forces may be transmitted to a user holding the massage device.
  • the axial middle of the first length of the first support element may be perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston.
  • the axial middle of the first length of the first support element may be in the middle of a first transverse end and a second transverse end of the first support element.
  • the first transverse end and the second transverse end may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction.
  • the transverse middle axis of the connecting means may be perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston.
  • the transverse middle axis may be in the middle of a horizontal length of the connecting means extending between the first horizontal end and the second horizontal end of the connecting means.
  • the first horizontal end and the second horizontal end may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction.
  • the connecting rod may have a first end with a first opening receiving a part of the actuator, preferably a crank portion.
  • the connecting rod may have a second end with a second opening receiving the connecting means.
  • the first opening is preferably bigger than the second opening.
  • the connecting rod may be formed of a material with higher stiffness than the material of the piston.
  • the connecting rod material may be preferably metal or fiber reinforced composite material.
  • the connecting rod material may have an elastic modulus between 10 GPa to 200 GPa.
  • the first support element is arranged between the piston and a guide element. This may provide an improved and secure fit between the piston and the guide element.
  • the first support element may improve the vibration isolation.
  • the first support element may absorb vibration produced by the movement of the piston by elastic deformation.
  • the first support element may be formed of a material of a higher elasticity than the piston, in particular a polymeric material with an elastic modulus preferably in between 0.01 GPa and 0.1 GPa.
  • the guide element may enclose the piston and the first support element.
  • the first support element may be a polymeric bearing or a metallic bearing.
  • the guide element may be formed of a material with less elasticity than the first support element.
  • the piston is configured to be guided within a second support element spaced apart from the first support element in the axial direction of the piston.
  • the second support element may improve the support of the piston in the massaging device.
  • the second support element may have a second length in the axial direction, which preferably corresponds to the first length of the first support element.
  • the second length may be longer than the first length to provide a bearing for forces applied in a radial direction to the front end of the piston.
  • the second length may be shorter than the first length to better maintain the axial alignment of the piston.
  • the second support element may be formed of a material of a higher elasticity than the piston, in particular a polymeric material with a low elastic modulus, preferably between 0.01 GPa and 0.1 GPa.
  • the second support element is more distant from the rear part of the massage device than the first support element.
  • the first support element and the second support element are bushings.
  • the massage device is adapted such that when the piston is in the retracted first end position, the transverse middle axis of the connecting means is positioned between the second support element and the axial middle of the first length of the first support element. This may improve the stability of the massage device.
  • the connecting rod is articulated around the transverse middle axis.
  • the connecting means is a pin extending perpendicularly to the axial direction.
  • the connecting means may be a threaded fastener with external screw threads.
  • the pin extends at least one-half of a transverse length of the piston, wherein the transverse length of the piston is perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston.
  • the pin extends at least two-thirds of the transverse length of the piston.
  • the first support element and/or the second support element are made of low-friction material, in particular oil-impregnated plastic.
  • the low-friction material may have a lower friction coefficient than metal, in particular polished steel or polished aluminum. This may reduce the friction between the first support element and/or the second support element and the piston while the piston moves back and forth between the retracted first end position and the extended second end position.
  • a spacer is arranged between the first support element and the second support element, and mounting parts are provided to press the first support element and the second support element against the spacer, respectively.
  • a first mounting part of the first support element may be a protrusion extending from the first length of the first support element in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston.
  • a second mounting part of the second support element may be a protrusion extending from the second length of the second support element in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston.
  • the first mounting part may be inserted in a first mounting recess of the spacer.
  • the second mounting part may be inserted in a second mounting recess of the spacer.
  • the piston comprises a negative pressure cavity connected to a suction pump.
  • a negative pressure may be applied simultaneously together with powerful strokes of the piston, which aids to combine cupping and percussive massage in one device.
  • the negative pressure cavity extends at least one-half an entire axial length of the piston.
  • the suction pump may have an electrical drive or may be driven by the actuator effecting the reciprocating movement of the massaging head.
  • the suction pump may be an electric diaphragm air pump.
  • the massage device comprises a main body.
  • the main body may comprise a platform arranged in the axial direction of the piston.
  • the piston may be arranged above the platform.
  • the main body may comprise a gripping section adapted to be held by a user.
  • the gripping section may be arranged below the platform.
  • the axial direction of the piston may be perpendicular to an axial direction of the gripping section.
  • An angle between the axial direction of the piston and the axial direction of the gripping section may be more than 90 degrees and less than 130 degrees.
  • the spacer may be mounted on the platform.
  • the suction pump may be arranged at a rear part of the massage device above the platform.
  • the suction pump maybe arranged at a rear part of the massage device below the platform.
  • the piston comprises an opening to the negative pressure cavity, the opening being adapted to establish a connection of the negative pressure cavity to the suction pump, wherein the opening remains in between the first support element and the second support element during the reciprocating movement of the piston.
  • the opening may be arranged on an axial top section of the piston spaced apart from a parallel bottom section being closer to the gripping section.
  • the opening may be provided at a rear end of the negative pressure cavity being closer to the actuator than a front end of the negative pressure cavity.
  • the connecting means is positioned at a distance of at least one third from a front end of the piston in the axial direction and at a distance of at least one third from a rear end of the piston in the axial direction.
  • the rear end of the piston is closer to the rear part of the massage device than the front end of the piston.
  • the rear end of the piston may be closer to the actuator than the front end of the piston.
  • a massaging opening may be provided at the front end of the piston.
  • the massaging opening may be a part of the negative pressure cavity.
  • a negative pressure may be applied on a massage recipient during the massage operation.
  • the negative pressure cavity may be connected to the suction pump via a tube.
  • the massage opening may be configured to engage with a massage applicator.
  • the actuator comprises a motor.
  • the actuator comprises a crank drive having a drive shaft that is eccentrically fixed in a crank body, wherein a bearing is provided between the crank body and the connecting rod, wherein the diameter of the bearing is bigger than twice the radius of the eccentricity of the fixation of the drive shaft in the crank body.
  • This bearing design may reduce friction and increase stability.
  • the device may be operated at a higher speed and/or with a stronger massaging force.
  • the relatively large bearing compared to the eccentricity may have a high mechanical durability.
  • the eccentricity defined by a distance between the center of the drive shaft and a center of the crank body may be smaller than one half of the radius of the crank body configured such that, based on lever rule, more percussive force may be driven from the drive shaft of the motor. Consequently, a more efficient use of motor power may be acquired.
  • the invention further provides a method of assembling a massage device comprising providing a piston, providing an actuator for reciprocating the piston linearly along an axial direction of the piston, connecting the piston to a connecting rod of the actuator by means of a connecting means with a transverse middle axis, arranging the transverse middle axis of the connecting means such that, during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement, the transverse middle axis of the connecting means remains in the axial direction of the piston within a first supporting element and a second supporting element spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the piston, without aligning with an axial middle of a first support element, and with an axial middle of a second support element.
  • the invention further provides a use of a connecting means connecting a piston to a connecting rod of an actuator in a massage device, wherein the piston is being configured to reciprocate in the axial direction of a piston within a first support element such that during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement a transverse middle axis of the connecting means is farther away than an axial middle of the first support element in the direction of a front massaging end of the piston.
  • the piston is configured to reciprocate in the axial direction of a piston within a first support element such that during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement a transverse middle axis of the connecting means is farther away than an axial middle of the first length of the first support element in the direction of a front massaging end of the piston.
  • a transverse middle axis of the connecting means may be farther away from the rear part of the massage device than an axial middle of the first length of the first support element in the direction of a front massaging end of the piston.
  • a transverse middle axis of the connecting means may be nearer to a front end of the piston than an axial middle of the first length of the first support element.
  • the invention further provides a massage device comprising an actuator arranged in a rear part of the massage device, a piston arranged in a front part of the massage device, wherein the actuator is configured to effect a reciprocating movement of the piston in an axial direction of the piston from a retracted first end position to an extended second end position, a connecting rod connecting the piston and the actuator, wherein the connecting rod and the piston are connected via a connecting means, wherein the connecting rod has a rear portion connected to the actuator and a front portion connected to the connecting means, wherein the rear portion of the connecting means is arranged in a different position in a radial direction than the front portion of the connecting rod.
  • the connecting rod may comprise a step in the radial direction.
  • the rear portion of the connecting rod may be formed as a rear part and the front portion of the connecting rod may be formed as a front part.
  • the rear part and the front part may be connected with a further connecting means.
  • the further connecting means may be a screw or pin.
  • a radial distance part may be provided in between the front part and the rear part of the connecting rod.
  • the front end of the connecting means may be arranged within the radial height range of a motor, which is adapted to drive the drive shaft.
  • the front portion of the connecting rod is arranged in between bearings of the motor in a radial height direction.
  • the actuator may comprise a crank drive having a drive shaft that is eccentrically fixed in a crank body, wherein the drive shaft protrudes from a motor, which is adapted to drive the drive shaft.
  • the motor may be an electrical motor and may comprise a gear unit.
  • the actuator and the piston support elements may be directly or indirectly mounted on the same mounting plate.
  • the mounting plate preferably extends in the radial direction. This provides for a compact and stable design.
  • FIG. 1 shows a sectional side view of a massage device according to an embodiment of the invention with a piston in a retracted position.
  • FIG. 2 shows a sectional side view of the massage device according to FIG. 1 with the piston in an extended position.
  • FIG. 3 shows a perspective section view of a first support element and a second support element of the massage device according to FIG. 1 or FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 shows a sectional partial side view of a massage device according to an embodiment of the invention with a piston in a retracted position.
  • FIG. 1 shows a massage device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • the massage device 1 is a portable electromechanical device that may be used for percussive massage application, including the operation modes: rapid strokes, suction, and a combination of rapid strokes and suction.
  • the massage device 1 comprises a main body 2.
  • the main body 2 comprises a rear part 3 and a front part 4.
  • a piston 5 is arranged in the front part 4 on a platform 6.
  • the piston 5 comprises a front end 5a and a rear end 5b.
  • the rear end 5b of the piston 5 is closer to the rear part 3 of the massage device 1 than the front end 5a of the piston 5.
  • the piston 5 is configured to be guided at least within a first support element 7.
  • the first support element 7 contacts the piston 5 along a first length 8 extending in an axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
  • the first length 8 has an axial middle 10.
  • the axial middle 10 of the first length 8 is perpendicular to the axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
  • the axial middle 10 of the first length 8 is in the middle of a first transverse end 11 and a second transverse end 12.
  • the first transverse end 11 and the second transverse end 12 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction 9.
  • the piston 5 is configured to be guided within a second support element 13.
  • the second support element 13 contacts the piston 5 along a second length 14 extending along the axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
  • the second length 14 has an axial middle 10a.
  • the axial middle 10a of the second length 14 is perpendicular to the axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
  • the first support element 7 and the second support element 13 are arranged on the platform 6.
  • the first support element 7 and the second support element 13 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction 9.
  • the piston 5 comprises a negative pressure cavity 15. On a top section 16 of the piston 5 extending in the axial direction 9, a suction opening 17 is provided.
  • the suction opening 17 connects the negative pressure cavity 15 with a suction pump 18 via a tube 19.
  • the suction opening 17 is arranged between the first support element 7 and the second support element 13.
  • the suction pump 18 can be arranged at the rear part 3 of the main body 2.
  • the suction pump 18 is arranged above the platform 6.
  • the suction pump 18 may be arranged below the platform 6.
  • a gripping section 20 is provided for a user to hold the massage device 1 .
  • the gripping section 20 is arranged at the rear part 3 of the messaging device 1 .
  • the gripping section 20 is positioned below the platform 6.
  • the actuator 21 is provided, which is partially arranged in the gripping section 20 and extends above the platform 6. It is also possible that the actuator 21 is arranged below the platform 6.
  • the actuator 21 comprises a crank drive 22.
  • the crank drive 22 comprises a drive shaft 23.
  • the drive shaft 23 is connected to a motor 24, preferably a brushless DC motor.
  • the drive shaft 23 is eccentrically fixed in a crank body 25.
  • a connecting rod 26 is provided to connect the piston 5 to the actuator 21.
  • a bearing 27 is provided between the crank body 25 and a connecting rod 26.
  • the diameter 28 of the bearing 27 is bigger than twice the radius of the eccentricity 29.
  • the eccentricity 29 is defined by the offset between a center of the crank body 25 and a center of the drive shaft 23.
  • the connecting rod 26 and the piston 5 are connected by a connecting means 30, preferably a pin 31.
  • the connecting means 30 extends axially in a first recess 32 of the piston 5 perpendicular to the axial direction 9.
  • the connecting means 30 extends at least one-half of a transverse length 33 of the piston 5, wherein the transverse length 33 of the piston 5 is perpendicular to the axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
  • the connecting means 30 comprises a transverse middle axis 34 perpendicular to the axial direction 9.
  • the transverse middle axis 34 is in the middle of a third transverse end 35 and the fourth transverse end 36 of the connecting means 30 spaced from each other in the axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
  • the actuator 21 effects a reciprocating movement of the piston 5 relative to the gripping section 20.
  • the actuator 21 effects the reciprocating movement of the piston 5 in an axial direction 9 of the piston 5 from a retracted first end position 37 to an extended second end position 38.
  • the piston 5 is depicted in the retracted first end position 37.
  • the center of the drive shaft 23 is closer to the piston 5 than to the center of the crank body 25.
  • the transverse middle axis 34 of the connecting means 30 is farther from the rear part 3 of the massage device 1 than from the axial middle 10 of the first length 8 of the first support element 7.
  • FIG. 2 shows the massage device in the extended second position 38 of the piston 5.
  • the center of the crank body 25 is closer to the piston 5 with respect to the center of the drive shaft 23.
  • the transverse middle axis 34 of the connecting means 30 is farther from the rear part 3 of the massage device 1 than from the axial middle 10 of the first length 8 of the first support element 7.
  • a massaging applicator 39 is inserted into the negative pressure cavity 15. Between the massaging applicator 39 and an inner wall 40 of the piston 5, sealing elements 41 are provided.
  • FIG. 3 shows a perspective section view of the first support element 7 and the second support element 13.
  • the first support element 7 and the second support element 13 are arranged between respective end parts 48, 49 and a spacer 42.
  • the first support element 7 has a first mounting part 43 extending from an outer circumferential surface 44 of the first support element 7.
  • the first mounting part 43 is arranged in between the spacer 42 and the end part 43.
  • the first mounting part 43 may extend perpendicular to the axial direction 9.
  • the second support element 13 has a second mounting part 46 extending from an outer circumferential surface 47 of the second support element 13.
  • the second mounting part 46 is arranged in between the spacer 42 and the end part 49.
  • the first mounting part 43 may extend perpendicular to the axial direction 9.
  • the first mounting part 43 and the second mounting part 46 may be clamped in between the spacer 42 and respective end parts 48, 49.
  • the spacer 42 and respective end parts 48, 49 comprise through-holes 50, wherein each through-hole 50 receives a connection means (not shown), such as a screw, in the axial direction 9.
  • the through-holes 50 extend in the axial direction 9.
  • the end parts 48, 49 may comprise an axial leg 51 , 52, which extends radially outside the first mounting part 43 and second mounting part 44, respectively.
  • the axial legs 51 , 52 may also extend radially outside the spacer 42.
  • the end parts 48, 49 are arranged and connected on the platform 6, wherein the axial legs 51 , 52 form mounting surfaces.
  • Fig. 4 shows a partial sectional side view of a massage device, wherein a piston 5 is guided in a first support element 7 and a second support element 13.
  • the piston 5 comprises a negative pressure cavity 15.
  • the negative pressure cavity 15 may be connected via a suction opening 17 to a suction pump.
  • the piston 5 is connected via a connecting means 30, in particular in the form of a pin or screw, to a connecting rod 26.
  • the connecting rod 26 is connected to an actuator 21 comprising a crank drive 22 and a motor 24.
  • the crank drive 22 comprises a crank body 25, which is eccentrically arranged on a drive shaft 23.
  • the connecting rod 26 extends in the axial direction 9, while having a step 53 in the radial height direction 54.
  • the front portion 55 of the connecting rod 26 is arranged in the radial direction 54 in between bearings 56, 57 of the motor 24.
  • the torque applied to the drive shaft 23 and therefore the bearing forces on the motor bearings 56, 57 are significantly reduced.
  • the front portion 55 of the connecting rod 26 is formed by a separate front part 58, which is connected to a rear portion 59 of the connecting rod 26 formed by a rear part 60 via a second connecting means 61 , in particular in the form of a screw or pin.
  • a radial distance element 62 may be provided in between the front part 58 and the rear part 60.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a massage device (1) comprising an actuator (21) arranged in a rear part (3) of the massage device (1) and a piston (5) arranged in a front part (4) of the massage device (1). The actuator (21) is configured to effect a reciprocating movement of the piston (5) in an axial direction (9) of the piston (5) from a retracted first end position (37) to an extended second end position (38). The piston (5) is more distant from the rear part (3) of the massage device (1), when the piston (5) is in the extended second end position (38) than when the piston (5) is in the retracted first end position (37). A connecting rod (26) connecting the piston (5) and the actuator (21) is provided. The connecting rod (26) and the piston (5) are connected via a connecting means (30), wherein the connecting means (30) comprises a transverse middle axis (34) perpendicular to the axial direction of (9) the piston (5), wherein the piston (5) is configured to be guided within a first support element (7) contacting the piston (5) along a first length (8) in the axial direction (9). The massage device (1) is adapted such that when the piston (5) is in the retracted first end position (37), the transverse middle axis (34) of the connecting means (30) is more distant from the rear part (3) of the massage device (1) than from an axial middle (10) of the first length (8) of the first support element (7). The invention further relates to a method of assembling a massage device (1) and the use of a connecting means (30).

Description

Massage device with piston support elements
The present invention relates to a massage device, a method of assembling same, and use of a connection means for connecting a piston a connecting rod of an actuator.
A massage device for applying pressure to the body with a reciprocating motion of an applicator head is known from US 10,314,762 B1. The applicator head is coupled to a piston, which is connected to a reciprocating linkage. The piston is engaged to the reciprocating linkage with a setscrew. The piston is guided in one mounting sleeve arranged in a cylindrical bore.
The object of the present invention is to provide an improved massage device and a method of operation same.
The invention provides a massage device comprising an actuator arranged in a rear part of the massage device and a piston arranged in a front part of the massage device, wherein the actuator is configured to effect a reciprocating movement of the piston in an axial direction of the piston from a retracted first end position to an extended second end position, wherein the piston is more distant from the rear part of the massage device when the piston is in the extended second end position than when the piston is in the retracted first end position. The reciprocating movement may be a linear motion. The massage device further comprises a connecting rod connecting the piston and the actuator, wherein the connecting rod and the piston are connected via a connecting means, wherein the connecting means comprises a transverse middle axis perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston, wherein the piston is configured to be guided within a first support element contacting the piston along a first length in the axial direction, wherein the massage device is adapted such that when the piston is in the retracted first end position, the transverse middle axis of the connecting means is more distant from the rear part of the massage device than from an axial middle of the first length of the first support element.
In particular, the connection means transmits the reciprocating force to the piston at a location more distant from the rear part of the massage device than the first support element, such that the piston is supported by the first support element in between the location in which the reciprocating force is transmitted and its rear end. This may enable to prevent undesired tilting of the piston out of its orientation in the axial direction. Further, this may enable that support forces to the piston may be provided with an improved leverage over the first support element. This may improve the stability of the reciprocating movement of the piston in the axial direction. Accordingly, less vibration superposing the reciprocating movement and forces may be transmitted to a user holding the massage device. The axial middle of the first length of the first support element may be perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston. The axial middle of the first length of the first support element may be in the middle of a first transverse end and a second transverse end of the first support element. The first transverse end and the second transverse end may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction.
The transverse middle axis of the connecting means may be perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston. The transverse middle axis may be in the middle of a horizontal length of the connecting means extending between the first horizontal end and the second horizontal end of the connecting means. The first horizontal end and the second horizontal end may be spaced apart from each other in the axial direction.
The connecting rod may have a first end with a first opening receiving a part of the actuator, preferably a crank portion. The connecting rod may have a second end with a second opening receiving the connecting means. The first opening is preferably bigger than the second opening.
The connecting rod may be formed of a material with higher stiffness than the material of the piston. The connecting rod material may be preferably metal or fiber reinforced composite material. The connecting rod material may have an elastic modulus between 10 GPa to 200 GPa.
The first support element is arranged between the piston and a guide element. This may provide an improved and secure fit between the piston and the guide element. The first support element may improve the vibration isolation. The first support element may absorb vibration produced by the movement of the piston by elastic deformation. The first support element may be formed of a material of a higher elasticity than the piston, in particular a polymeric material with an elastic modulus preferably in between 0.01 GPa and 0.1 GPa. The guide element may enclose the piston and the first support element. The first support element may be a polymeric bearing or a metallic bearing. The guide element may be formed of a material with less elasticity than the first support element.
In one embodiment of the invention, the piston is configured to be guided within a second support element spaced apart from the first support element in the axial direction of the piston. The second support element may improve the support of the piston in the massaging device. The second support element may have a second length in the axial direction, which preferably corresponds to the first length of the first support element. The second length may be longer than the first length to provide a bearing for forces applied in a radial direction to the front end of the piston. The second length may be shorter than the first length to better maintain the axial alignment of the piston. The second support element may be formed of a material of a higher elasticity than the piston, in particular a polymeric material with a low elastic modulus, preferably between 0.01 GPa and 0.1 GPa.
Preferably, the second support element is more distant from the rear part of the massage device than the first support element.
Preferably, the first support element and the second support element are bushings.
In one embodiment, the massage device is adapted such that when the piston is in the retracted first end position, the transverse middle axis of the connecting means is positioned between the second support element and the axial middle of the first length of the first support element. This may improve the stability of the massage device.
In one embodiment, the connecting rod is articulated around the transverse middle axis.
In one embodiment, the connecting means is a pin extending perpendicularly to the axial direction. The connecting means may be a threaded fastener with external screw threads.
In one embodiment, the pin extends at least one-half of a transverse length of the piston, wherein the transverse length of the piston is perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston. Preferably, the pin extends at least two-thirds of the transverse length of the piston. Thus, the engagement between the piston and the connection rod may be stronger.
In one embodiment, the first support element and/or the second support element are made of low-friction material, in particular oil-impregnated plastic. The low-friction material may have a lower friction coefficient than metal, in particular polished steel or polished aluminum. This may reduce the friction between the first support element and/or the second support element and the piston while the piston moves back and forth between the retracted first end position and the extended second end position.
In one embodiment, a spacer is arranged between the first support element and the second support element, and mounting parts are provided to press the first support element and the second support element against the spacer, respectively. A first mounting part of the first support element may be a protrusion extending from the first length of the first support element in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston. A second mounting part of the second support element may be a protrusion extending from the second length of the second support element in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the piston. The first mounting part may be inserted in a first mounting recess of the spacer. The second mounting part may be inserted in a second mounting recess of the spacer.
In one embodiment, the piston comprises a negative pressure cavity connected to a suction pump. Thus, a negative pressure may be applied simultaneously together with powerful strokes of the piston, which aids to combine cupping and percussive massage in one device. Preferably, the negative pressure cavity extends at least one-half an entire axial length of the piston. In particular, the suction pump may have an electrical drive or may be driven by the actuator effecting the reciprocating movement of the massaging head. The suction pump may be an electric diaphragm air pump.
Preferably, the massage device comprises a main body. The main body may comprise a platform arranged in the axial direction of the piston. The piston may be arranged above the platform. The main body may comprise a gripping section adapted to be held by a user. The gripping section may be arranged below the platform. The axial direction of the piston may be perpendicular to an axial direction of the gripping section. An angle between the axial direction of the piston and the axial direction of the gripping section may be more than 90 degrees and less than 130 degrees. The spacer may be mounted on the platform. The suction pump may be arranged at a rear part of the massage device above the platform. The suction pump maybe arranged at a rear part of the massage device below the platform.
In one embodiment, the piston comprises an opening to the negative pressure cavity, the opening being adapted to establish a connection of the negative pressure cavity to the suction pump, wherein the opening remains in between the first support element and the second support element during the reciprocating movement of the piston. The opening may be arranged on an axial top section of the piston spaced apart from a parallel bottom section being closer to the gripping section. The opening may be provided at a rear end of the negative pressure cavity being closer to the actuator than a front end of the negative pressure cavity.
In one embodiment, the connecting means is positioned at a distance of at least one third from a front end of the piston in the axial direction and at a distance of at least one third from a rear end of the piston in the axial direction. The rear end of the piston is closer to the rear part of the massage device than the front end of the piston. The rear end of the piston may be closer to the actuator than the front end of the piston.
Preferably, a massaging opening may be provided at the front end of the piston. The massaging opening may be a part of the negative pressure cavity. Thus, a negative pressure may be applied on a massage recipient during the massage operation. The negative pressure cavity may be connected to the suction pump via a tube. The massage opening may be configured to engage with a massage applicator.
In particular, the actuator comprises a motor. In one embodiment, the actuator comprises a crank drive having a drive shaft that is eccentrically fixed in a crank body, wherein a bearing is provided between the crank body and the connecting rod, wherein the diameter of the bearing is bigger than twice the radius of the eccentricity of the fixation of the drive shaft in the crank body. This bearing design may reduce friction and increase stability. Thus, the device may be operated at a higher speed and/or with a stronger massaging force. The relatively large bearing compared to the eccentricity may have a high mechanical durability. The eccentricity defined by a distance between the center of the drive shaft and a center of the crank body may be smaller than one half of the radius of the crank body configured such that, based on lever rule, more percussive force may be driven from the drive shaft of the motor. Consequently, a more efficient use of motor power may be acquired.
The invention further provides a method of assembling a massage device comprising providing a piston, providing an actuator for reciprocating the piston linearly along an axial direction of the piston, connecting the piston to a connecting rod of the actuator by means of a connecting means with a transverse middle axis, arranging the transverse middle axis of the connecting means such that, during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement, the transverse middle axis of the connecting means remains in the axial direction of the piston within a first supporting element and a second supporting element spaced apart from each other in the axial direction of the piston, without aligning with an axial middle of a first support element, and with an axial middle of a second support element.
The invention further provides a use of a connecting means connecting a piston to a connecting rod of an actuator in a massage device, wherein the piston is being configured to reciprocate in the axial direction of a piston within a first support element such that during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement a transverse middle axis of the connecting means is farther away than an axial middle of the first support element in the direction of a front massaging end of the piston. In particular, the piston is configured to reciprocate in the axial direction of a piston within a first support element such that during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement a transverse middle axis of the connecting means is farther away than an axial middle of the first length of the first support element in the direction of a front massaging end of the piston. In this use of the connecting means, during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement a transverse middle axis of the connecting means may be farther away from the rear part of the massage device than an axial middle of the first length of the first support element in the direction of a front massaging end of the piston. In this use of the connecting means, during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement, a transverse middle axis of the connecting means may be nearer to a front end of the piston than an axial middle of the first length of the first support element.
The invention further provides a massage device comprising an actuator arranged in a rear part of the massage device, a piston arranged in a front part of the massage device, wherein the actuator is configured to effect a reciprocating movement of the piston in an axial direction of the piston from a retracted first end position to an extended second end position, a connecting rod connecting the piston and the actuator, wherein the connecting rod and the piston are connected via a connecting means, wherein the connecting rod has a rear portion connected to the actuator and a front portion connected to the connecting means, wherein the rear portion of the connecting means is arranged in a different position in a radial direction than the front portion of the connecting rod.
The connecting rod may comprise a step in the radial direction. The rear portion of the connecting rod may be formed as a rear part and the front portion of the connecting rod may be formed as a front part. The rear part and the front part may be connected with a further connecting means. The further connecting means may be a screw or pin. A radial distance part may be provided in between the front part and the rear part of the connecting rod.
The front end of the connecting means may be arranged within the radial height range of a motor, which is adapted to drive the drive shaft. In particular, the front portion of the connecting rod is arranged in between bearings of the motor in a radial height direction.
The actuator may comprise a crank drive having a drive shaft that is eccentrically fixed in a crank body, wherein the drive shaft protrudes from a motor, which is adapted to drive the drive shaft. The motor may be an electrical motor and may comprise a gear unit.
In any embodiment, the actuator and the piston support elements may be directly or indirectly mounted on the same mounting plate. The mounting plate preferably extends in the radial direction. This provides for a compact and stable design.
The invention will now be further explained with reference to an exemplary embodiment as shown in the figures.
FIG. 1 shows a sectional side view of a massage device according to an embodiment of the invention with a piston in a retracted position.
FIG. 2 shows a sectional side view of the massage device according to FIG. 1 with the piston in an extended position.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective section view of a first support element and a second support element of the massage device according to FIG. 1 or FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 shows a sectional partial side view of a massage device according to an embodiment of the invention with a piston in a retracted position.
FIG. 1 shows a massage device 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The massage device 1 is a portable electromechanical device that may be used for percussive massage application, including the operation modes: rapid strokes, suction, and a combination of rapid strokes and suction.
The massage device 1 comprises a main body 2. The main body 2 comprises a rear part 3 and a front part 4. A piston 5 is arranged in the front part 4 on a platform 6. The piston 5 comprises a front end 5a and a rear end 5b. The rear end 5b of the piston 5 is closer to the rear part 3 of the massage device 1 than the front end 5a of the piston 5.
The piston 5 is configured to be guided at least within a first support element 7. The first support element 7 contacts the piston 5 along a first length 8 extending in an axial direction 9 of the piston 5. The first length 8 has an axial middle 10. The axial middle 10 of the first length 8 is perpendicular to the axial direction 9 of the piston 5. The axial middle 10 of the first length 8 is in the middle of a first transverse end 11 and a second transverse end 12. The first transverse end 11 and the second transverse end 12 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction 9.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 the piston 5 is configured to be guided within a second support element 13. The second support element 13 contacts the piston 5 along a second length 14 extending along the axial direction 9 of the piston 5. The second length 14 has an axial middle 10a. The axial middle 10a of the second length 14 is perpendicular to the axial direction 9 of the piston 5. The first support element 7 and the second support element 13 are arranged on the platform 6. The first support element 7 and the second support element 13 are spaced apart from each other in the axial direction 9.
The piston 5 comprises a negative pressure cavity 15. On a top section 16 of the piston 5 extending in the axial direction 9, a suction opening 17 is provided. The suction opening 17 connects the negative pressure cavity 15 with a suction pump 18 via a tube 19.
The suction opening 17 is arranged between the first support element 7 and the second support element 13. The suction pump 18 can be arranged at the rear part 3 of the main body 2. The suction pump 18 is arranged above the platform 6. The suction pump 18 may be arranged below the platform 6.
A gripping section 20 is provided for a user to hold the massage device 1 . The gripping section 20 is arranged at the rear part 3 of the messaging device 1 . The gripping section 20 is positioned below the platform 6.
An actuator 21 is provided, which is partially arranged in the gripping section 20 and extends above the platform 6. It is also possible that the actuator 21 is arranged below the platform 6. The actuator 21 comprises a crank drive 22. The crank drive 22 comprises a drive shaft 23. The drive shaft 23 is connected to a motor 24, preferably a brushless DC motor. The drive shaft 23 is eccentrically fixed in a crank body 25. A connecting rod 26 is provided to connect the piston 5 to the actuator 21. A bearing 27 is provided between the crank body 25 and a connecting rod 26. The diameter 28 of the bearing 27 is bigger than twice the radius of the eccentricity 29. The eccentricity 29 is defined by the offset between a center of the crank body 25 and a center of the drive shaft 23.
The connecting rod 26 and the piston 5 are connected by a connecting means 30, preferably a pin 31. The connecting means 30 extends axially in a first recess 32 of the piston 5 perpendicular to the axial direction 9. The connecting means 30 extends at least one-half of a transverse length 33 of the piston 5, wherein the transverse length 33 of the piston 5 is perpendicular to the axial direction 9 of the piston 5. The connecting means 30 comprises a transverse middle axis 34 perpendicular to the axial direction 9. The transverse middle axis 34 is in the middle of a third transverse end 35 and the fourth transverse end 36 of the connecting means 30 spaced from each other in the axial direction 9 of the piston 5.
By means of the connecting rod 26, the actuator 21 effects a reciprocating movement of the piston 5 relative to the gripping section 20. The actuator 21 effects the reciprocating movement of the piston 5 in an axial direction 9 of the piston 5 from a retracted first end position 37 to an extended second end position 38.
In FIG. 1 , the piston 5 is depicted in the retracted first end position 37. When the piston 5 is in the retracted first end position 37, the center of the drive shaft 23 is closer to the piston 5 than to the center of the crank body 25. When the piston 5 is in the retracted first end position 37, the transverse middle axis 34 of the connecting means 30 is farther from the rear part 3 of the massage device 1 than from the axial middle 10 of the first length 8 of the first support element 7.
FIG. 2 shows the massage device in the extended second position 38 of the piston 5. When the piston 5 is in the extended second end position 38, the center of the crank body 25 is closer to the piston 5 with respect to the center of the drive shaft 23. When the piston 5 is in the extended second end position 38, the transverse middle axis 34 of the connecting means 30 is farther from the rear part 3 of the massage device 1 than from the axial middle 10 of the first length 8 of the first support element 7.
As shown in both FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, a massaging applicator 39 is inserted into the negative pressure cavity 15. Between the massaging applicator 39 and an inner wall 40 of the piston 5, sealing elements 41 are provided.
FIG. 3 shows a perspective section view of the first support element 7 and the second support element 13. The first support element 7 and the second support element 13 are arranged between respective end parts 48, 49 and a spacer 42. The first support element 7 has a first mounting part 43 extending from an outer circumferential surface 44 of the first support element 7. The first mounting part 43 is arranged in between the spacer 42 and the end part 43. The first mounting part 43 may extend perpendicular to the axial direction 9. The second support element 13 has a second mounting part 46 extending from an outer circumferential surface 47 of the second support element 13. The second mounting part 46 is arranged in between the spacer 42 and the end part 49. The first mounting part 43 may extend perpendicular to the axial direction 9. The first mounting part 43 and the second mounting part 46 may be clamped in between the spacer 42 and respective end parts 48, 49. The spacer 42 and respective end parts 48, 49 comprise through-holes 50, wherein each through-hole 50 receives a connection means (not shown), such as a screw, in the axial direction 9. The through-holes 50 extend in the axial direction 9. The end parts 48, 49 may comprise an axial leg 51 , 52, which extends radially outside the first mounting part 43 and second mounting part 44, respectively. The axial legs 51 , 52 may also extend radially outside the spacer 42. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the end parts 48, 49 are arranged and connected on the platform 6, wherein the axial legs 51 , 52 form mounting surfaces.
Fig. 4 shows a partial sectional side view of a massage device, wherein a piston 5 is guided in a first support element 7 and a second support element 13. The piston 5 comprises a negative pressure cavity 15. The negative pressure cavity 15 may be connected via a suction opening 17 to a suction pump. The piston 5 is connected via a connecting means 30, in particular in the form of a pin or screw, to a connecting rod 26. The connecting rod 26 is connected to an actuator 21 comprising a crank drive 22 and a motor 24. The crank drive 22 comprises a crank body 25, which is eccentrically arranged on a drive shaft 23. The connecting rod 26 extends in the axial direction 9, while having a step 53 in the radial height direction 54. This enables that the leverage with which the axial forces acting on the front portion 55 of the connecting rod 26 regarding the motor 24 is reduced or eliminated. In particular, the front portion 55 is arranged in the radial direction 54 in between bearings 56, 57 of the motor 24. Thus, the torque applied to the drive shaft 23 and therefore the bearing forces on the motor bearings 56, 57 are significantly reduced. In particular, the front portion 55 of the connecting rod 26 is formed by a separate front part 58, which is connected to a rear portion 59 of the connecting rod 26 formed by a rear part 60 via a second connecting means 61 , in particular in the form of a screw or pin. A radial distance element 62 may be provided in between the front part 58 and the rear part 60. Thus, the massage force is within the radial height range of the motor 24 in the radial height direction 54, reducing torque on the components of the actuator 21 , and therefore allowing a more stable and more compact device.

Claims

Claims
1. Massage device (1) comprising: an actuator (21) arranged in a rear part (3) of the massage device (1), a piston (5) arranged in a front part (4) of the massage device (1), wherein the actuator (21) is configured to effect a reciprocating movement of the piston (5) in an axial direction (9) of the piston (5) from a retracted first end position (37) to an extended second end position (38), wherein the piston (5) is more distant from the rear part (3) of the massage device (1), when the piston (5) is in the extended second end position (38) than when the piston (5) is in the retracted first end position (37), a connecting rod (26) connecting the piston (5) and the actuator (21), wherein the connecting rod (26) and the piston (5) are connected via a connecting means (30), wherein the connecting means (30) comprises a transverse middle axis (34) perpendicular to the axial direction of (9) the piston (5), wherein the piston (5) is configured to be guided within a first support element (7) contacting the piston (5) along a first length (8) in the axial direction (9), characterized in that the massage device (1) is adapted such that when the piston (5) is in the retracted first end position (37), the transverse middle axis (34) of the connecting means (30) is more distant from the rear part (3) of the massage device (1) than from an axial middle (10) of the first length (8) of the first support element (7).
2. Massage device according to claim 1 , wherein the piston (5) is configured to be guided within a second support element (13) spaced apart from the first support element (7) in the axial direction (9) of the piston (5).
3. Massage device according to claim 2, wherein the second support element (13) is more distant from the rear part (3) of the massage device (1) than from the first support element (7).
4. Massage device according to claim 3, wherein the massage device (1) is adapted such that when the piston (5) is in the retracted first end position (37), the transverse middle axis (34) of the connecting means (30) is positioned between the second support element (13) and the axial middle (10) of the first length (8) of the first support element (7).
5. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting rod (26) is articulated around the transverse middle axis (34). 6. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting means (30) is a pin (31) extending perpendicular to the axial direction (9) of the piston (5).
7. Massage device according to claim 6, wherein the pin (31) extends at least one-half of a transverse length (33) of the piston (5), wherein the transverse length (33) is perpendicular to the axial direction (3) of the piston (5).
8. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first support element (7) and/or second support element (13) are made of low-friction material, in particular oil-impregnated plastic.
9. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a spacer (42) is arranged in between the first support element (7) and the second support element (13), and mounting parts (43, 46) are provided to press the first support element (7) and the second support element (13) against the spacer (42), respectively.
10. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the piston (5) comprises a negative pressure cavity (15) connected to a suction pump (18).
11. Massage device according to claim 10, wherein the piston (5) comprises an opening (17) to the negative pressure cavity (15), the opening (13) being adapted to establish a connection of the negative pressure cavity (15) to the suction pump (18), wherein the opening (17) remains in between the first support element (7) and the second support element (13) during the reciprocating movement of the piston (5).
12. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting means (30) is positioned at a distance of at least one third from a front end (55) of the piston (5) in the axial direction (9) and at a distance of at least one third from a rear end (56) of the piston (5) in the axial direction (9).
13. Massage device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (21) comprises a crank drive (22) having a drive shaft (23) that is eccentrically fixed in a crank body
(25), wherein a bearing (27) is provided between the crank body (25) and the connecting rod
(26), wherein the diameter (28) of the bearing (27) is bigger than twice the radius of the eccentricity (29) of the fixation of the drive shaft (23) in the crank body (25). 14. Method of assembling a massage device (1) comprising: providing a piston (5), providing an actuator (21) for reciprocating the piston (5) linearly along an axial direction (9) of the piston (5), connecting the piston (5) to a connecting rod (26) of the actuator (21) by means of a connecting means with a transverse middle axis (34) arranging the transverse middle axis (34) of the connecting means (30) such that, during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement, the transverse middle axis (34) of the connecting means (30) remains in the axial direction (9) of the piston (5) between a first supporting element (7) and a second supporting element (13) spaced apart from each other in the axial direction (9) of the piston (5) without aligning with an axial middle (10) of a first support element (7) and with an axial middle (10a) of a second length (14) of a second support element (13) guiding the piston (5).
15. Use of a connecting means (30) connecting a piston (5) to a connecting rod (26) of an actuator (21) in a massage device (1), wherein the piston (5) is configured to reciprocate in the axial direction (9) of a piston (5) within a first support element (7) such that, during the entire amplitude of the reciprocating movement, a transverse middle axis (34) of the connecting means (30) is farther away than an axial middle (10) of a first length (8) of the first support element (7) in the direction of a front end (5a) of the piston (5) for contacting a massaging surface.
PCT/EP2022/073746 2021-08-27 2022-08-26 Massage device with piston support elements WO2023025923A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP21193575 2021-08-27
EP21193575.4 2021-08-27

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US20200085675A1 (en) * 2018-09-18 2020-03-19 Pado, Inc. Versatile and Ergonomic Percussion Massage Appliance
US20200289365A1 (en) * 2018-12-26 2020-09-17 Theragun, Inc. Percussive therapy device
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DE202021101048U1 (en) * 2020-07-30 2021-03-15 Yong Kang Aijiu Industrial & Trade Co.,Ltd Impact structure of a double-headed fascia massager

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20200085675A1 (en) * 2018-09-18 2020-03-19 Pado, Inc. Versatile and Ergonomic Percussion Massage Appliance
US10314762B1 (en) 2018-11-12 2019-06-11 Hyper Ice, Inc. Battery-powered percussive massage device with pressure sensor
US20200289365A1 (en) * 2018-12-26 2020-09-17 Theragun, Inc. Percussive therapy device
US20200390644A1 (en) * 2019-06-11 2020-12-17 Addaday, Inc. Programmable therapeutic device, method, and system
DE202021101048U1 (en) * 2020-07-30 2021-03-15 Yong Kang Aijiu Industrial & Trade Co.,Ltd Impact structure of a double-headed fascia massager

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