WO2010048104A1 - Body massager with contoured travel - Google Patents
Body massager with contoured travel Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2010048104A1 WO2010048104A1 PCT/US2009/061214 US2009061214W WO2010048104A1 WO 2010048104 A1 WO2010048104 A1 WO 2010048104A1 US 2009061214 W US2009061214 W US 2009061214W WO 2010048104 A1 WO2010048104 A1 WO 2010048104A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- carriage
- massager
- housing
- transmission
- output shaft
- Prior art date
Links
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
- A61H7/00—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for
- A61H7/002—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for by rubbing or brushing
- A61H7/004—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for by rubbing or brushing power-driven, e.g. electrical
-
- 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
- A61H7/00—Devices for suction-kneading massage; Devices for massaging the skin by rubbing or brushing not otherwise provided for
- A61H7/007—Kneading
-
- 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
- A61H2201/0138—Support for the device incorporated in furniture
- A61H2201/0149—Seat or chair
-
- 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
- A61H2201/0188—Illumination related features
-
- 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
- A61H2201/02—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled
- A61H2201/0207—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes heated or cooled heated
-
- 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
- A61H2201/10—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes with further special therapeutic means, e.g. electrotherapy, magneto therapy or radiation therapy, chromo therapy, infrared or ultraviolet therapy
-
- 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
- A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
- A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
- A61H2201/1623—Back
-
- 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
- A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
- A61H2201/1602—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support
- A61H2201/1645—Physical interface with patient kind of interface, e.g. head rest, knee support or lumbar support contoured to fit the user
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- 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
- A61H2201/16—Physical interface with patient
- A61H2201/1657—Movement of interface, i.e. force application means
- A61H2201/1664—Movement of interface, i.e. force application means linear
- A61H2201/1669—Movement of interface, i.e. force application means linear moving along the body in a reciprocating manner
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- 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
- A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
- A61H2201/5023—Interfaces to the user
- A61H2201/5025—Activation means
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- 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
- A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
- A61H2201/5023—Interfaces to the user
- A61H2201/5035—Several programs selectable
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- 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
- A61H2203/00—Additional characteristics concerning the patient
- A61H2203/04—Position of the patient
- A61H2203/0425—Sitting on the buttocks
- A61H2203/0431—Sitting on the buttocks in 90°/90°-position, like on a chair
-
- 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
- A61H2205/00—Devices for specific parts of the body
- A61H2205/08—Trunk
- A61H2205/081—Back
-
- 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
- A61H2230/00—Measuring physical parameters of the user
- A61H2230/85—Contour of the body
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
- A61N2005/065—Light sources therefor
- A61N2005/0651—Diodes
- A61N2005/0652—Arrays of diodes
Definitions
- Various embodiments relate to body massagers.
- the prior art discloses body massagers, such as the massagers disclosed in Ferber et al. U.S. Patent No. 7,128,721 B2, and in Ferber et al. U.S. Patent Application Publication 2006/0211962 Al.
- An embodiment of a massager is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide that is mounted in the housing.
- the guide has a first track and a second track.
- the second track has a path that varies relative to a path of the first track in a depth direction of the housing.
- a first follower is received in the first track.
- a carriage is rotationally connected to the first follower.
- a second follower is received in the second track and is rotationally connected to the carriage.
- a massage formation is provided on the carriage.
- a motor and a transmission are operably connected to the carriage and the housing for translating the carriage along the guide such that the varying paths of the first and second tracks vary the depth of the massage formation.
- Another massager embodiment is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide that is mounted in the housing.
- a carriage is mounted to the longitudinal guide for translation along the longitudinal guide.
- a motor is operably connected to one of the housing and the carriage.
- a transmission is provided on the carriage and is operably driven by the motor.
- a contoured guide is mounted in the housing. The contoured guide has a path that varies relative to the longitudinal guide in a depth direction of the housing.
- An output shaft is operably driven by the transmission and cooperates with the transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission.
- the output shaft has a first end extending from the carriage and a second end cooperating with the contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the at least one output shaft.
- a massage formation is provided on the output shaft for being rotated by and translated with the output shaft.
- a massager of at least one embodiment is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide that is mounted in the housing.
- a contoured guide is mounted in the housing, and has a path that varies relative to the longitudinal guide in a depth direction of the housing.
- a carriage is mounted to the longitudinal guide for translation along the longitudinal guide. The carriage has a slot for receiving the contoured guide therein.
- a motor is operably connected to one of the housing and the carriage.
- a transmission is provided on the carriage and is operably driven by the motor.
- An output shaft is operably driven by the transmission and cooperates with the transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission.
- the output shaft has a first end extending from the carriage and a second end extending into the slot in the carriage for cooperating with the contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the output shaft.
- a massage formation is provided on the output shaft for being rotated by and translated with the output shaft.
- FIGURE 1 is a front perspective view of a body massager according to an embodiment of the invention.
- FIGURE 2 is a rear perspective view of the body massager of Figure 1;
- FIGURE 3 is a schematic view of a keypad for a controller for the body massager of Figure 1;
- FIGURE 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of a massage mechanism of the body massager of Figure 1 according to an embodiment
- FIGURE 5 is a partially exploded perspective view of the body massager of Figure 1 , illustrated with a message mechanism according to another embodiment;
- FIGURE 6 is a partial section view of the massager of Figure 5;
- FIGURE 7 is a top plan view of the massage mechanism of Figure 5;
- FIGURE 8 is a section view of the body massager of Figure 5;
- FIGURE 9 is a section view of the massage mechanism of Figure 5;
- FIGURE 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 1, illustrated with a massage mechanism according to yet another embodiment
- FIGURE 11 is a top perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
- FIGURE 12 is a partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
- FIGURE 13 is an enlarged partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
- FIGURE 14 is another enlarged partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
- FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of a housing portion of the massager of Figure 10.
- FIGURE 16 is a bottom perspective view of the massage mechanism of the massager of Figure 10.
- the body massager 20 includes a backrest portion 22 and a seat support portion 24.
- the internal assemblies of the backrest portion 22 and the seat support portion 24 are collectively retained within a flexible cover 26, which is formed of a high quality vinyl or fabric. Of course, other materials such as leather may be employed for the cover 26.
- the cover 26 provides a pivotal connection 28 at a lower longitudinal end of the backrest portion 22 and a rearmost end of the seat support portion 24.
- the flexible material of the cover 26 provides a living hinge at the pivotal connection 28 permitting user adjustment of an included angle between the backrest portion 22 and the seat support portion 24.
- the body massager 20 may be provided without a seat support portion 24.
- Massage effects provided by the body massager 20, include a rolling massage effect and a kneading massage effect provided in the backrest portion 22, which is operable to provide the massage effects longitudinally along the length of the backrest portion 22.
- the kneading massage effect is illustrated schematically in Figure 1 by a massage assembly 30 that provides a kneading massage effect illustrated by the arcuate arrows.
- the massage assembly 30 also provides a rolling massage effect longitudinally along the length of the backrest portion 22 as illustrated by the longitudinal arrows in Figure 1.
- the massage assembly 30 provides a combination of the kneading and rolling massage effects as illustrated by the combination of arcuate and longitudinal arrows of Figure 1.
- the massage assembly 30 also adjusts a depth of the massage formation in a fore/aft direction of the backrest portion 22 in order to provide a contoured massage to the back of the user.
- the depth is adjustable wherein the massage assembly scans the user's back in order to provide a contour to match the user's back.
- the massage assembly 30 may also include a heated massage formation that also illuminates, which is viewable through a central portion 32 of the cover 26. The illumination may indicate a mode of operation, such as heating. Additionally, trim 34 along the central portion 32 of the cover 26 maybe end-lit by light emitting diodes (LEDs) to illuminate the curvature of the backrest portion 22.
- LEDs light emitting diodes
- the massage assembly 30 may also be illuminated for illustrating the path of travel through side vents 36 in the backrest portion 22.
- the backrest portion 22 is sized to be received upon a backrest of a conventional chair.
- the seat support portion 24 is sized to be received upon a seat support of a conventional chair.
- the body massager 20 is portable due to its compact size and light weight so that the user may place the body massager 20 upon the conventional chair for receiving a massage when seated upon the chair.
- the adjustability of the included angle between the backrest portion 22 and the seat support portion 24 accommodates a wide range of angles that maybe incorporated in conventional chairs.
- the body massager 20 may be utilized while rested upon an underlying support surface, such as a floor, and while rested against an adjacent support, such as a wall.
- the body massager 20 may be laid flat upon an underlying support surface, such as a bed, a floor, or the like, whereby the user may lie upon the body massager 20.
- the seat support portion 24 includes a seating surface 38 for receiving the user when seated.
- the backrest portion 22 includes a backrest surface 40 for receiving and supporting the back of the user.
- the massage assembly 30 of the backrest portion 22 imparts the massage effects through the backrest surface 40.
- a massage assembly of the seat support portion 24 imparts a massage effect through the seating surface 38.
- the user operates the massage assembly 30 via a control pad provided on the body massager 20.
- a control pad 42 for a remote control is illustrated.
- the control pad 42 includes a power button 44 for turning the body massager 20 on and off.
- the control pad 42 also includes controls for the rotary kneading massage effect and the rolling massage effect provided from the massage assembly 30.
- Each button includes an LED for indicating that the associated function is in operation.
- a full rotary kneading (or Shiatsu) massage effect button 46 is provided for selecting a rotary kneading massage effect to the full longitudinal range of the backrest portion 22.
- a zone button 48 is provided for selecting a range for the massage effect, such as a full range of the backrest portion 22, an upper range of the backrest portion 22, or a lower range of the backrest portion 22.
- the control pad 42 further includes an upward targeted rotary kneading massage effect button 50 and a lower targeted rotary kneading massage effect button 52 for providing the rotary kneading massage effect to a targeted region upon the user's body.
- a full rolling massage effect button 54 is provided on the control pad 42 for providing a full rolling massage effect. The zone for this rolling massage effect may be selected by the zone button 48.
- a toggle button 56 is provided between the Shiatsu button 46 and the rolling button 54 for toggling between each of these operations.
- a bidirectional width adjustment button 58 is also provided on the control pad 42 so that as the user is experiencing a rolling massage effect, as selected by the rolling button 54, the user may adjust the width of the massage formation.
- the control pad 42 also includes an intensity button 60 for selecting a depth of the massage effect.
- the intensity has three settings, low, medium and high so that the user can select one of these depths of the massage effect.
- the control pad 42 further includes a scan button 62 for selecting an operation whereby the massage assembly 30 scans a curvature of the back of the user for providing a depth of the massage effect that is customized to the curvature of the user's back.
- a memory button 64 is also provided so that a primary user can store the settings for the curvature of his or her back so that the scanning operation does not have to be repeated.
- the control pad 42 also includes indicia 66 depicting a user. Along the back of the user are a series of LEDs 68, which each illuminate to show a relative positioning of the massage assembly 30 along the backrest portion 22.
- the indicia 66 also includes a red region 70 provided along the back of the user, which is illuminated from a light source beneath the control pad 42 when a heat operation of the massage assembly 30 is operated.
- the control pad 42 also includes a heat button 72 for controlling a heating operation of the massage assembly 30.
- the control pad 42 further includes a demonstration button 74 for providing a demonstration operation of various combinations of massage effects provided by the buttons discussed above so that the user experiences a variety of massage effects and becomes aware of the versatility and various features provided by the massage assembly 30.
- the backrest portion 22 includes a housing that is provided by a rear housing portion 76 and a front housing portion (not shown).
- the housing portions collectively retain the massage assembly 30 and support the back of the user.
- the front housing portion includes an aperture or a series of apertures therethrough so that the massage formation of the massage assembly 30 can extend through the aperture(s) for providing the massage effect to the user.
- the massage assembly 78 is illustrated for utilization within the backrest portion 22 of the body massager 20. Unlike the prior embodiment, the massage assembly 78 has a fixed path for the depth adjustment.
- the massage assembly 78 includes a carriage 80 which cooperates with a pair of lengthwise guides 82, 84 for limited longitudinal movement along the backrest portion 22. Each of the guides 82, 84 is adapted to be fastened directly to the rear housing portion 76.
- the longitudinal or lengthwise direction is illustrated in Figure 4 in a y- direction and the massage assembly 78 includes a longitudinal axis y L .
- the massage assembly 78 also includes a pair of massage formations 86, 88 that are driven for rotation relative to the massage assembly 78 for providing a rotary kneading massage effect.
- the guides 82, 84 extend generally linearly along a length of the backrest portion 22.
- Each guide 82, 84 includes a linear channel 90 for guiding the carriage 80.
- Each of the guides 82, 84 also includes a contoured channel 92 that extends forward in the Z direction for extending the massage formations 86, 88 forward from the backrest portion 22 in various regions in order to provide a massage effect that is contoured to the shape of the user's back.
- the massage assembly 78 includes a motor 94 that is retained to the carriage by a cover plate 96.
- the motor has an output shaft extending from each end.
- a worm drive (not shown) is provided on each end of the drive shaft.
- One worm drive drives a worm gear 98, which is journaled to the carriage 80 and connected to a first pinion gear 100.
- the first pinion gear 100 drives a first reduction gear 102 that is also journaled to the carriage 80 and is connected to a second pinion gear 104.
- the second pinion gear 104 is engaged with a second reduction gear 106.
- the second reduction gear 106 is mounted to a drive axle 108, which is journaled on the carriage 80.
- the drive axle 108 drives a pair of third pinion gears 110, which are each oriented laterally outboard of the carriage 80.
- a pair of gear racks 112 are each mounted to the rear housing portion 76 and are each engaged by one of the third pinion gears.
- the motor 94 imparts a rotation that is reduced by the series of gears 98, 100, 102, 104, 106, which consequently drives the carriage 80 along the gear racks due to the reduced rotation imparted to the drive axle 108.
- a pair of roller followers 114 are each provided on the drive axle 108 outboard of the third pinion gears 110 and are each received within the linear channel 90 in the respective guide 82, 84.
- the rollers 114 and the linear channels 90 cooperate to retain the carriage 80 in geared engagement with gear racks 112 for travel of the carriage 80 along the guides 82, 84.
- the rollers 114 also provide an axis about which the carriage 80 pivots for extending the massage formations 86, 88 in a fore and aft direction.
- An idle axle 116 is journaled to the carriage 80 at an orientation that is spaced apart from the drive axle 108 in the y-direction as well as offset in a z- direction.
- a pair of roller followers 118 are provided on the idle axle 116 and are each engaged in one of the contoured channels 92 of the respective guides 82, 84.
- the idle axle 116 As the idle axle 116 approaches one of a pair of peaks 120, 122 in the contoured channel 92, the idle axle 116 is displaced in the z-direction thereby pivoting the carriage 80 about the drive axle 108 and extending the massage formations 86, 88 forward in the z-direction. Likewise, as the idle axle 116 travels away from one of the peaks 120, 122 the carriage 80 and consequently the massage formations 86, 88 are retracted in the z-direction.
- the lower end of the motor output shaft drives a worm drive 124, which drives a pair of worm gears 126, 128 that are each journaled to the carriage 80.
- Each of the worm gears 126, 128 is connected to a pinion gear (not shown) on its underside that is engaged to a reduction gear 130, 132.
- Each of the reduction gears 130, 132 are mounted to a gear shaft 134, 136.
- Each of the gear shafts 134, 136 extend through the cover plate 96 and drive one of the corresponding massage formations 86, 88.
- Each of the massage formations 86, 88 may include a pair of massage nodes 138, 140 mounted to a bracket 142, which is connected to the corresponding gear shaft 134, 136.
- the massage nodes 138, 140 may each include heaters for providing a heated massage effect. Accordingly, a series of wire brushes may be mounted in each of the brackets 142 for engaging a series of annular contact rings 144 provided on the
- the massage assembly 146 is illustrated with a rear housing portion 148 in Figures 5, 6 and 8.
- the massage assembly 146 is a single motor design; and is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,128,721 B2, which issued to Ferber et al. on October 31, 2006.
- the massage assembly 146 includes a carriage 150 with a pair of keys 152, 154 that cooperates with a series of gibs 156 that are formed in the rear housing portion 148 and a removable elongate retainer gib 158 that is assembled to the rear housing portion 148.
- the removable retainer gib 158 has a gear rack 160 formed in an inboard side of the gib 158.
- the carriage 150 includes a motor 162 ( Figure 6) that is retained to the carriage 150 by cover plate 164.
- the motor has an output shaft 166 ( Figures 7-9), which drives a worm drive 168 for driving a pair of worm gears 170, 172.
- Each of the worm gears 170, 172 is journaled to the carriage 150 and connected to a pinion gear 174, 176 ( Figure 9).
- Each of the pinion gears 174, 176 drives a reduction gear 178, 180.
- Each of the reduction gears 178, 180 is mounted on a gear shaft 182, 184 for driving the gear shaft 182, 184.
- Each massage formation 186, 188 is each mounted to one of the gear shafts 182, 184.
- Each massage formation 186, 188 includes a retainer plate 190 secured to the gear shaft 182, 184 by a fastener such as a retainer ring 192.
- a bracket 194 is fastened to the end of each gear shaft 182, 184 by a transverse fastener, such as a pin 196.
- a pair of massage nodes 198, 200 are mounted to each bracket 194 for linear and rotary movement relative to the bracket 194.
- a coil spring 202 is provided between each massage node 198, 200 and the bracket 194 for extending the nodes 198, 200.
- a heater 204 may be provided in the primary massage nodes 198 and therefore may be wired to brushes within the bracket 194 for engaging contact plates upon the retainer plate 190.
- the retainer plate 190 may be wired to the carriage 150 and may be journaled about the corresponding gear shaft 182, 184 for maintaining a rotary position relative to the carriage 150.
- One of the worm gears 170 drives a secondary transmission 206 for driving a pinion gear 208 that is engaged with the gear rack 160 ( Figure 8).
- the motor 162 provides a rotary kneading massage effect to the massage formations 186, 188 while providing a greatly reduced rotation to the second pinion gear 208 for driving the carriage 150 along the gear rack 160.
- a second motor can be provided for driving the secondary transmission 206 for providing independent operation and control of the translation of the carriage 150 and rotary kneading massage effect by the massage formations 186, 188.
- the rear housing portion 148 includes a pair of contoured guides 210 extending in a forward direction.
- Each of the guides 210 has a contour to match that of the back of the user.
- the contour of the guides 210 is utilized for driving the gear shafts 182, 184 in a fore/aft direction thereby extending or retracting the massage formations 186, 188.
- each gear shaft 182, 184 is splined with the corresponding reduction gear 178, 180 so that the gear shaft 182, 184 can translate relative to the carriage 150 while still being driven by the corresponding reduction gear 178, 180.
- each gear shaft 182, 184 is provided with a spherical end 212 as illustrated in Figures 6 and 9.
- the spherical end 212 is seated in a socket 214 in a follower 216.
- a socket cap 218 is provided on the follower 216 for retaining the spherical end 212 of the corresponding gear shaft 182, 184 within the follower 216.
- a pair of rollers 220, 222 are mounted to the follower 216 for engaging the contoured guide 210.
- the follower 216 travels along the contoured guide 210 for extending and retracting a corresponding gear shaft 182, 184 for adjusting the depth of the massage formations 186, 188 relative to the backrest portion 22 of the massager 20.
- FIG. 10-16 another massage assembly 224 is illustrated for the backrest portion 22 of the massage 20.
- a rear housing portion 226 is provided with a pair of contoured guides 228 (Figures 10 and 15) extending in a forward direction and contoured to match the contour of the back of the user.
- the massage assembly 224 includes a carriage 230 having a pair of channels 232 ( Figures 13, 14 and 16) for receiving the guides 228.
- the carriage 230 is retained to the rear housing portion 226 by a retainer gib 234 ( Figures 10 and 11).
- a motor 236 ( Figures 10 and 14) is retained on the carriage 230 by a cover plate 238.
- the motor 236 drives a worm drive 240 ( Figure 14).
- the worm drive 240 is engaged with a pair of worm gears 242, 244, which are driven by the worm drive 240.
- a pair of pinion gears 246, 248 are each provided on one of the worm gears 242, 244.
- Each of the pinion gears 246, 248 is engaged with a reduction gear 250, 252.
- Each of the reduction gears 250, 252 are journaled to the cover plate 238 and the carriage 230.
- a splined aperture 252 includes a splined aperture 254.
- a pair of massage formations 256, 258 are each provided with a bracket 260.
- a splined hub 262 extends from the bracket 260 and is received within the splined aperture 254.
- rotation of the reduction gears 250, 252 imparts a rotation to the corresponding hub 262 of the massage bracket 260.
- a pair of massage nodes 264, 266 are provided on each bracket 260.
- a follower rod 268 is fastened to each bracket 260 and extends through the hub 262, through the corresponding reduction gear 250, 252 and into one of the channels 232 and the carriage 230 for engaging the contoured guide 228.
- the pinion gear 248 also drives a secondary transmission, which includes a first reduction gear 270 that is connected to a first pinion gear 272.
- the first pinion gear 272 is engaged with a second reduction gear 274, which is connected to a second pinion gear 276.
- the second pinion gear 276 engages a gear rack 278 formed in the retainer gib 234.
- operation of the motor 236 drives both massage formations 256, 258 to rotate to provide a rotary kneading massage effect.
- operation of the motor 236 drives a secondary transmission thereby driving the carriage 230 along the gear rack 234.
- the follower rods 268 travel along the contoured guides 228, the massage formations 256, 258 are extended and retracted relative to the backrest portion 22 of the massager 20.
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Abstract
A massager is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide with first and second tracks with varying paths. First and second followers are received in the first and second tracks respectively. A carriage with a massage formation, is rotationally connected to the first and second followers. A motor and a transmission are operably connected to the carriage and the housing for translating the carriage along the guide such that the varying paths of the first and second tracks vary the depth of the massage formation. Another massager is provided with an output shaft operably driven by, and cooperating with, a transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission. The output shaft has a massage formation extending from the carriage and another end cooperating with a contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the at least one output shaft.
Description
BODY MASSAGER WITH CONTOURED TRAVEL
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application Serial No. 61/106,714 filed October 20, 2008, the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.
BACKGROUND
1. Technical Field
Various embodiments relate to body massagers.
2. Background Art
The prior art discloses body massagers, such as the massagers disclosed in Ferber et al. U.S. Patent No. 7,128,721 B2, and in Ferber et al. U.S. Patent Application Publication 2006/0211962 Al.
SUMMARY
An embodiment of a massager is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide that is mounted in the housing. The guide has a first track and a second track. The second track has a path that varies relative to a path of the first track in a depth direction of the housing. A first follower is received in the first track.
A carriage is rotationally connected to the first follower. A second follower is received in the second track and is rotationally connected to the carriage. A massage formation is provided on the carriage. A motor and a transmission are operably connected to the carriage and the housing for translating the carriage along the guide
such that the varying paths of the first and second tracks vary the depth of the massage formation.
Another massager embodiment is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide that is mounted in the housing. A carriage is mounted to the longitudinal guide for translation along the longitudinal guide. A motor is operably connected to one of the housing and the carriage. A transmission is provided on the carriage and is operably driven by the motor. A contoured guide is mounted in the housing. The contoured guide has a path that varies relative to the longitudinal guide in a depth direction of the housing. An output shaft is operably driven by the transmission and cooperates with the transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission. The output shaft has a first end extending from the carriage and a second end cooperating with the contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the at least one output shaft. A massage formation is provided on the output shaft for being rotated by and translated with the output shaft.
A massager of at least one embodiment is provided with a housing, and a longitudinal guide that is mounted in the housing. A contoured guide is mounted in the housing, and has a path that varies relative to the longitudinal guide in a depth direction of the housing. A carriage is mounted to the longitudinal guide for translation along the longitudinal guide. The carriage has a slot for receiving the contoured guide therein. A motor is operably connected to one of the housing and the carriage. A transmission is provided on the carriage and is operably driven by the motor. An output shaft is operably driven by the transmission and cooperates with the transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission. The output shaft has a first end extending from the carriage and a second end extending into the slot in the carriage for cooperating with the contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the output shaft. A massage formation is provided on the output shaft for being rotated by and translated with the output shaft.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGURE 1 is a front perspective view of a body massager according to an embodiment of the invention;
FIGURE 2 is a rear perspective view of the body massager of Figure 1;
FIGURE 3 is a schematic view of a keypad for a controller for the body massager of Figure 1;
FIGURE 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of a massage mechanism of the body massager of Figure 1 according to an embodiment;
FIGURE 5 is a partially exploded perspective view of the body massager of Figure 1 , illustrated with a message mechanism according to another embodiment;
FIGURE 6 is a partial section view of the massager of Figure 5;
FIGURE 7 is a top plan view of the massage mechanism of Figure 5;
FIGURE 8 is a section view of the body massager of Figure 5;
FIGURE 9 is a section view of the massage mechanism of Figure 5;
FIGURE 10 is a partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 1, illustrated with a massage mechanism according to yet another embodiment;
FIGURE 11 is a top perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
FIGURE 12 is a partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
FIGURE 13 is an enlarged partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
FIGURE 14 is another enlarged partially exploded perspective view of the massager of Figure 10;
FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of a housing portion of the massager of Figure 10; and
FIGURE 16 is a bottom perspective view of the massage mechanism of the massager of Figure 10.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a body massager is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment and is referenced generally by numeral 20. The body massager 20 includes a backrest portion 22 and a seat support portion 24. The internal assemblies of the backrest portion 22 and the seat support portion 24 are collectively retained within a flexible cover 26, which is formed of a high quality vinyl or fabric. Of course, other materials such as leather may be employed for the cover 26. The
cover 26 provides a pivotal connection 28 at a lower longitudinal end of the backrest portion 22 and a rearmost end of the seat support portion 24. The flexible material of the cover 26 provides a living hinge at the pivotal connection 28 permitting user adjustment of an included angle between the backrest portion 22 and the seat support portion 24. Of course, the body massager 20 may be provided without a seat support portion 24.
Massage effects provided by the body massager 20, include a rolling massage effect and a kneading massage effect provided in the backrest portion 22, which is operable to provide the massage effects longitudinally along the length of the backrest portion 22. The kneading massage effect is illustrated schematically in Figure 1 by a massage assembly 30 that provides a kneading massage effect illustrated by the arcuate arrows. The massage assembly 30 also provides a rolling massage effect longitudinally along the length of the backrest portion 22 as illustrated by the longitudinal arrows in Figure 1. Additionally, the massage assembly 30 provides a combination of the kneading and rolling massage effects as illustrated by the combination of arcuate and longitudinal arrows of Figure 1. These massage effects are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2006/0211962 Al, which published on September 21, 2006 to Ferber et al; the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. The seat support portion 24 may also provide a vibratory massage effect to the user seated thereupon.
The massage assembly 30 also adjusts a depth of the massage formation in a fore/aft direction of the backrest portion 22 in order to provide a contoured massage to the back of the user. According to one embodiment, the depth is adjustable wherein the massage assembly scans the user's back in order to provide a contour to match the user's back. The massage assembly 30 may also include a heated massage formation that also illuminates, which is viewable through a central portion 32 of the cover 26. The illumination may indicate a mode of operation, such as heating. Additionally, trim 34 along the central portion 32 of the cover 26 maybe end-lit by light emitting diodes (LEDs) to illuminate the curvature of the backrest portion 22. The massage assembly 30 may also be illuminated for illustrating the path of travel through side vents 36 in the backrest portion 22.
The backrest portion 22 is sized to be received upon a backrest of a conventional chair. Likewise, the seat support portion 24 is sized to be received upon a seat support of a conventional chair. Additionally, the body massager 20 is portable due to its compact size and light weight so that the user may place the body massager 20 upon the conventional chair for receiving a massage when seated upon the chair. The adjustability of the included angle between the backrest portion 22 and the seat support portion 24 accommodates a wide range of angles that maybe incorporated in conventional chairs. Alternatively, the body massager 20 may be utilized while rested upon an underlying support surface, such as a floor, and while rested against an adjacent support, such as a wall. Alternatively, the body massager 20 may be laid flat upon an underlying support surface, such as a bed, a floor, or the like, whereby the user may lie upon the body massager 20.
The seat support portion 24 includes a seating surface 38 for receiving the user when seated. The backrest portion 22 includes a backrest surface 40 for receiving and supporting the back of the user. The massage assembly 30 of the backrest portion 22 imparts the massage effects through the backrest surface 40. Likewise, in at least one embodiment, a massage assembly of the seat support portion 24 imparts a massage effect through the seating surface 38.
The user operates the massage assembly 30 via a control pad provided on the body massager 20. Referring now to Figure 3, a control pad 42 for a remote control is illustrated. The control pad 42 includes a power button 44 for turning the body massager 20 on and off. The control pad 42 also includes controls for the rotary kneading massage effect and the rolling massage effect provided from the massage assembly 30. Each button includes an LED for indicating that the associated function is in operation.
A full rotary kneading (or Shiatsu) massage effect button 46 is provided for selecting a rotary kneading massage effect to the full longitudinal range of the backrest portion 22. A zone button 48 is provided for selecting a range for the massage effect, such as a full range of the backrest portion 22, an upper range of the backrest portion 22, or a lower range of the backrest portion 22.
The control pad 42 further includes an upward targeted rotary kneading massage effect button 50 and a lower targeted rotary kneading massage effect button 52 for providing the rotary kneading massage effect to a targeted region upon the user's body. A full rolling massage effect button 54 is provided on the control pad 42 for providing a full rolling massage effect. The zone for this rolling massage effect may be selected by the zone button 48. A toggle button 56 is provided between the Shiatsu button 46 and the rolling button 54 for toggling between each of these operations.
A bidirectional width adjustment button 58 is also provided on the control pad 42 so that as the user is experiencing a rolling massage effect, as selected by the rolling button 54, the user may adjust the width of the massage formation.
The control pad 42 also includes an intensity button 60 for selecting a depth of the massage effect. The intensity has three settings, low, medium and high so that the user can select one of these depths of the massage effect.
The control pad 42 further includes a scan button 62 for selecting an operation whereby the massage assembly 30 scans a curvature of the back of the user for providing a depth of the massage effect that is customized to the curvature of the user's back. A memory button 64 is also provided so that a primary user can store the settings for the curvature of his or her back so that the scanning operation does not have to be repeated.
The control pad 42 also includes indicia 66 depicting a user. Along the back of the user are a series of LEDs 68, which each illuminate to show a relative positioning of the massage assembly 30 along the backrest portion 22. The indicia 66 also includes a red region 70 provided along the back of the user, which is illuminated from a light source beneath the control pad 42 when a heat operation of the massage assembly 30 is operated. Accordingly, the control pad 42 also includes a heat button 72 for controlling a heating operation of the massage assembly 30.
The control pad 42 further includes a demonstration button 74 for providing a demonstration operation of various combinations of massage effects provided by the buttons discussed above so that the user experiences a variety of massage effects and becomes aware of the versatility and various features provided by the massage assembly 30.
Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, the backrest portion 22 includes a housing that is provided by a rear housing portion 76 and a front housing portion (not shown). The housing portions collectively retain the massage assembly 30 and support the back of the user. As is known in the art, the front housing portion includes an aperture or a series of apertures therethrough so that the massage formation of the massage assembly 30 can extend through the aperture(s) for providing the massage effect to the user.
Referring now to Figure 4, another massage assembly 78 is illustrated for utilization within the backrest portion 22 of the body massager 20. Unlike the prior embodiment, the massage assembly 78 has a fixed path for the depth adjustment. The massage assembly 78 includes a carriage 80 which cooperates with a pair of lengthwise guides 82, 84 for limited longitudinal movement along the backrest portion 22. Each of the guides 82, 84 is adapted to be fastened directly to the rear housing portion 76. The longitudinal or lengthwise direction is illustrated in Figure 4 in a y- direction and the massage assembly 78 includes a longitudinal axis yL. The massage assembly 78 also includes a pair of massage formations 86, 88 that are driven for rotation relative to the massage assembly 78 for providing a rotary kneading massage effect.
The guides 82, 84 extend generally linearly along a length of the backrest portion 22. Each guide 82, 84 includes a linear channel 90 for guiding the carriage 80. Each of the guides 82, 84 also includes a contoured channel 92 that extends forward in the Z direction for extending the massage formations 86, 88 forward from the backrest portion 22 in various regions in order to provide a massage effect that is contoured to the shape of the user's back.
The massage assembly 78 includes a motor 94 that is retained to the carriage by a cover plate 96. The motor has an output shaft extending from each end. A worm drive (not shown) is provided on each end of the drive shaft. One worm drive drives a worm gear 98, which is journaled to the carriage 80 and connected to a first pinion gear 100. The first pinion gear 100 drives a first reduction gear 102 that is also journaled to the carriage 80 and is connected to a second pinion gear 104. The second pinion gear 104 is engaged with a second reduction gear 106. The second reduction gear 106 is mounted to a drive axle 108, which is journaled on the carriage 80. The drive axle 108 drives a pair of third pinion gears 110, which are each oriented laterally outboard of the carriage 80. A pair of gear racks 112 are each mounted to the rear housing portion 76 and are each engaged by one of the third pinion gears. Thus, the motor 94 imparts a rotation that is reduced by the series of gears 98, 100, 102, 104, 106, which consequently drives the carriage 80 along the gear racks due to the reduced rotation imparted to the drive axle 108.
A pair of roller followers 114 are each provided on the drive axle 108 outboard of the third pinion gears 110 and are each received within the linear channel 90 in the respective guide 82, 84. The rollers 114 and the linear channels 90 cooperate to retain the carriage 80 in geared engagement with gear racks 112 for travel of the carriage 80 along the guides 82, 84. The rollers 114 also provide an axis about which the carriage 80 pivots for extending the massage formations 86, 88 in a fore and aft direction.
An idle axle 116 is journaled to the carriage 80 at an orientation that is spaced apart from the drive axle 108 in the y-direction as well as offset in a z- direction. A pair of roller followers 118 are provided on the idle axle 116 and are each engaged in one of the contoured channels 92 of the respective guides 82, 84. Thus, as the drive axle 108 drives the carriage 80 along the gear racks 112, the idle axle 116 follows the contoured path of the contoured channel 92. As the idle axle 116 approaches one of a pair of peaks 120, 122 in the contoured channel 92, the idle axle 116 is displaced in the z-direction thereby pivoting the carriage 80 about the drive axle 108 and extending the massage formations 86, 88 forward in the z-direction.
Likewise, as the idle axle 116 travels away from one of the peaks 120, 122 the carriage 80 and consequently the massage formations 86, 88 are retracted in the z-direction.
The lower end of the motor output shaft drives a worm drive 124, which drives a pair of worm gears 126, 128 that are each journaled to the carriage 80. Each of the worm gears 126, 128 is connected to a pinion gear (not shown) on its underside that is engaged to a reduction gear 130, 132. Each of the reduction gears 130, 132 are mounted to a gear shaft 134, 136. Each of the gear shafts 134, 136 extend through the cover plate 96 and drive one of the corresponding massage formations 86, 88. Each of the massage formations 86, 88 may include a pair of massage nodes 138, 140 mounted to a bracket 142, which is connected to the corresponding gear shaft 134, 136. The massage nodes 138, 140 may each include heaters for providing a heated massage effect. Accordingly, a series of wire brushes may be mounted in each of the brackets 142 for engaging a series of annular contact rings 144 provided on the cover plate 96.
Although one motor 94 is illustrated for driving the carriage 80 and driving the massage formations 86, 88, the invention contemplates utilization of two motors for independently controlling each of these tasks.
Referring now to Figures 5-9, another massage assembly 146 for the backrest portion 22 is illustrated. The massage assembly 146 is illustrated with a rear housing portion 148 in Figures 5, 6 and 8. The massage assembly 146 is a single motor design; and is similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,128,721 B2, which issued to Ferber et al. on October 31, 2006. The massage assembly 146 includes a carriage 150 with a pair of keys 152, 154 that cooperates with a series of gibs 156 that are formed in the rear housing portion 148 and a removable elongate retainer gib 158 that is assembled to the rear housing portion 148. The removable retainer gib 158 has a gear rack 160 formed in an inboard side of the gib 158.
The carriage 150 includes a motor 162 (Figure 6) that is retained to the carriage 150 by cover plate 164. The motor has an output shaft 166 (Figures 7-9), which drives a worm drive 168 for driving a pair of worm gears 170, 172. Each of the
worm gears 170, 172 is journaled to the carriage 150 and connected to a pinion gear 174, 176 (Figure 9). Each of the pinion gears 174, 176 drives a reduction gear 178, 180. Each of the reduction gears 178, 180 is mounted on a gear shaft 182, 184 for driving the gear shaft 182, 184.
With continued reference to Figure 9, a pair of massage formations
186, 188 are each mounted to one of the gear shafts 182, 184. Each massage formation 186, 188 includes a retainer plate 190 secured to the gear shaft 182, 184 by a fastener such as a retainer ring 192. A bracket 194 is fastened to the end of each gear shaft 182, 184 by a transverse fastener, such as a pin 196. A pair of massage nodes 198, 200 are mounted to each bracket 194 for linear and rotary movement relative to the bracket 194. A coil spring 202 is provided between each massage node 198, 200 and the bracket 194 for extending the nodes 198, 200. A heater 204 may be provided in the primary massage nodes 198 and therefore may be wired to brushes within the bracket 194 for engaging contact plates upon the retainer plate 190. Thus, the retainer plate 190 may be wired to the carriage 150 and may be journaled about the corresponding gear shaft 182, 184 for maintaining a rotary position relative to the carriage 150.
One of the worm gears 170 drives a secondary transmission 206 for driving a pinion gear 208 that is engaged with the gear rack 160 (Figure 8). Thus, the motor 162 provides a rotary kneading massage effect to the massage formations 186, 188 while providing a greatly reduced rotation to the second pinion gear 208 for driving the carriage 150 along the gear rack 160. Alternatively, a second motor can be provided for driving the secondary transmission 206 for providing independent operation and control of the translation of the carriage 150 and rotary kneading massage effect by the massage formations 186, 188.
Referring again to Figures 5 and 6, the rear housing portion 148 includes a pair of contoured guides 210 extending in a forward direction. Each of the guides 210 has a contour to match that of the back of the user. The contour of the guides 210 is utilized for driving the gear shafts 182, 184 in a fore/aft direction thereby extending or retracting the massage formations 186, 188. Accordingly, each
gear shaft 182, 184 is splined with the corresponding reduction gear 178, 180 so that the gear shaft 182, 184 can translate relative to the carriage 150 while still being driven by the corresponding reduction gear 178, 180.
The proximal end of each gear shaft 182, 184 is provided with a spherical end 212 as illustrated in Figures 6 and 9. The spherical end 212 is seated in a socket 214 in a follower 216. A socket cap 218 is provided on the follower 216 for retaining the spherical end 212 of the corresponding gear shaft 182, 184 within the follower 216. A pair of rollers 220, 222 are mounted to the follower 216 for engaging the contoured guide 210. Accordingly, as the carriage 150 travels along the gear rack 160, the follower 216 travels along the contoured guide 210 for extending and retracting a corresponding gear shaft 182, 184 for adjusting the depth of the massage formations 186, 188 relative to the backrest portion 22 of the massager 20.
Referring now to Figures 10-16, another massage assembly 224 is illustrated for the backrest portion 22 of the massage 20. A rear housing portion 226 is provided with a pair of contoured guides 228 (Figures 10 and 15) extending in a forward direction and contoured to match the contour of the back of the user. The massage assembly 224 includes a carriage 230 having a pair of channels 232 (Figures 13, 14 and 16) for receiving the guides 228. The carriage 230 is retained to the rear housing portion 226 by a retainer gib 234 (Figures 10 and 11). A motor 236 (Figures 10 and 14) is retained on the carriage 230 by a cover plate 238. The motor 236 drives a worm drive 240 (Figure 14). The worm drive 240 is engaged with a pair of worm gears 242, 244, which are driven by the worm drive 240. A pair of pinion gears 246, 248 are each provided on one of the worm gears 242, 244. Each of the pinion gears 246, 248 is engaged with a reduction gear 250, 252. Each of the reduction gears 250, 252 are journaled to the cover plate 238 and the carriage 230.
Referring now to Figures 13 and 14, each of the reduction gears 250,
252 includes a splined aperture 254. A pair of massage formations 256, 258 are each provided with a bracket 260. A splined hub 262 extends from the bracket 260 and is received within the splined aperture 254. Thus, rotation of the reduction gears 250, 252 imparts a rotation to the corresponding hub 262 of the massage bracket 260. A
pair of massage nodes 264, 266 are provided on each bracket 260. A follower rod 268 is fastened to each bracket 260 and extends through the hub 262, through the corresponding reduction gear 250, 252 and into one of the channels 232 and the carriage 230 for engaging the contoured guide 228.
Referring now to Figure 16, the pinion gear 248 also drives a secondary transmission, which includes a first reduction gear 270 that is connected to a first pinion gear 272. The first pinion gear 272 is engaged with a second reduction gear 274, which is connected to a second pinion gear 276. The second pinion gear 276 engages a gear rack 278 formed in the retainer gib 234. Thus, operation of the motor 236 drives both massage formations 256, 258 to rotate to provide a rotary kneading massage effect. Likewise, operation of the motor 236 drives a secondary transmission thereby driving the carriage 230 along the gear rack 234. As the follower rods 268 travel along the contoured guides 228, the massage formations 256, 258 are extended and retracted relative to the backrest portion 22 of the massager 20.
While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the invention.
Claims
1. A massager comprising: a housing; a longitudinal guide mounted in the housing, the guide having a first track, and a second track having a path that varies relative to a path of the first track in a depth direction of the housing; a first follower received in the first track; a carriage rotationally connected to the first follower; a second follower received in the second track and rotationally connected to the carriage; at least one massage formation provided on the carriage; and a motor and a transmission operably connected to the carriage and the housing for translating the carriage along the guide such that the varying paths of the first and second tracks vary the depth of the massage formation.
2. The massager of claim 1 wherein the first track and the second track are each further defined as a channel formed in the longitudinal guide.
3. The massager of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first track and the second track is linear.
4. The massager of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first track and the second track is contoured in the depth direction of the housing.
5. The massager of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first follower and the second follower further comprises a roller.
6. The massager of claim 1 further comprising an axle rotationally mounted to the carriage, wherein one of the first follower and the second follower is mounted to the axle.
7. The massager of claim 1 further comprising: a first axle rotationally mounted to the carriage, wherein the first follower is mounted to the first axle; and a second axle rotationally mounted to the carriage, wherein the second follower is mounted to the second axle.
8. The massager of claim 7 wherein at least one of the first axle and the second axle is driven by the motor and the transmission.
9. The massager of claim 8 wherein at least one of the first axle and the second axle is idle.
10. The massager of claim 8 further comprising: a gear rack mounted to the housing; and a pinion gear mounted to the driven axle and engaged to the gear rack such that rotation of the drive axle results in translation of the carriage along the guide.
11. A massager comprising: a housing; a longitudinal guide mounted in the housing; a carriage mounted to the longitudinal guide for translation along the longitudinal guide; a motor operably connected to at least one of the housing and the carriage; a transmission provided on the carriage and operably driven by the motor; a contoured guide mounted in the housing, the contoured guide having a path that varies relative to the longitudinal guide in a depth direction of the housing; at least one output shaft operably driven by the transmission and cooperating with the transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission, the at least one output shaft having a first end extending from the carriage and a second end cooperating with the contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the at least one output shaft; and a massage formation provided on the at least one output shaft for being rotated by and translated with the at least one output shaft.
12. The massager of claim 11 wherein the transmission further comprises at least one output gear operably driven by the transmission; and wherein the at least one output shaft is operably connected to the at least one output gear for being rotated by and for translating relative to the at least one output gear.
13. The massager of claim 12 wherein the at least one output gear has an internally splined aperture and the at least one output shaft is externally splined and engaged within the aperture of the at least one output gear.
14. The massager of claim 11 wherein the transmission further comprises at least one output gear operably driven by the transmission; and wherein the massage formation is operably connected to the at least one output gear for being rotated by and for translating relative to the at least one output gear.
15. The massager of claim 14 wherein the at least one output gear has an internally splined aperture; and wherein the massage formation further comprises an externally splined hub engaged within the aperture of the at least one output gear.
16. The massager of claim 11 further comprising a follower mounted to the second end of the at least one output shaft and operably connected to the contoured guide.
17. The massager of claim 11 wherein the second end of the at least one output shaft is generally spherical; and wherein the massager further comprises a follower having a socket mounted to the second end of the at least one output shaft and operably connected to the contoured guide.
18. The massager of claim 17 further comprising at least one roller mounted to the follower for travel along the contoured guide.
19. The massager of claim 11 wherein the transmission is operably connected to the housing for translating the carriage along the housing.
20. A massager comprising: a housing; a longitudinal guide mounted in the housing; a contoured guide mounted in the housing, the contoured guide having a path that varies relative to the longitudinal guide in a depth direction of the housing; a carriage mounted to the longitudinal guide for translation along the longitudinal guide, the carriage having a slot for receiving the contoured guide therein; a motor operably connected to at least one of the housing and the carriage; a transmission provided on the carriage and operably driven by the motor; at least one output shaft operably driven by the transmission and cooperating with the transmission for axial translation relative to the transmission, the at least one output shaft having a first end extending from the carriage and a second end extending into the slot in the carriage for cooperating with the contoured guide such that translation of the carriage varies the axial position of the at least one output shaft; and a massage formation provided on the at least one output shaft for being rotated by and translated with the at least one output shaft.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10671408P | 2008-10-20 | 2008-10-20 | |
US61/106,714 | 2008-10-20 |
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WO2010048104A1 true WO2010048104A1 (en) | 2010-04-29 |
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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PCT/US2009/061214 WO2010048104A1 (en) | 2008-10-20 | 2009-10-20 | Body massager with contoured travel |
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WO (1) | WO2010048104A1 (en) |
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