JP7536864B2 - Impact Massage Device - Google Patents

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16/869,402, filed May 7, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16/796,143, filed February 20, 2020, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/844,424, filed May 7, 2019, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/899,098, filed September 11, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/912,392, filed October 8, 2019. U.S. Patent Application No. 16/869,402 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16/675,772, filed November 6, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/785,151, filed December 26, 2018. All of the above-cited applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

The present invention relates generally to massage devices, and more particularly to impact therapy devices that provide a reciprocating motion.

Massage devices often provide a superficial and ineffective massage that does not provide substantial benefit. Thus, there is a need for an improved massage device. Furthermore, percussion massage devices are often used in an ineffective manner. Thus, there is a need to automate percussion therapy devices to provide effective massage or recovery.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an impact treatment device having a housing, a power source, a motor disposed within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. In a preferred embodiment, the motor is a brushless motor having a rotatable motor shaft, and the impact treatment device further comprises a motor mounting portion disposed within the housing, the motor mounting portion having a mounting wall having a shaft opening formed therein. The motor is mounted to the mounting wall, and the motor shaft extends through the shaft opening. First and second mounting flanges extend perpendicularly from the mounting wall, the first and second mounting flanges being secured to opposite sides of the housing.

In a preferred embodiment, a first boss member extends outwardly from the first mounting flange and a second boss member extends outwardly from the second mounting flange. The housing has a first housing portion and a second housing portion. A first mounting member forming a first opening is formed in the first housing portion and a second mounting member forming a second opening is formed in the second housing portion. The first boss member extends through the first opening and the second boss member extends through the second opening, a first threaded fastener secures the first boss member to the first housing portion and a second threaded fastener secures the second boss member to the second housing portion. In a preferred embodiment, a first cylindrical damping member having a first annular groove formed in its outer surface is received on the first boss member, a ring portion of the first mounting member is received in the first annular groove, and a second cylindrical damping member having a second annular groove formed in its outer surface is received on the second boss member and a ring portion of the second mounting member is received in the second annular groove.

In a preferred embodiment, the impact therapy device further comprises a screen disposed on the housing and an infrared thermometer module disposed within the housing. A temperature aperture is formed within the housing through which an infrared beam may be emitted, and a temperature reading of the body part generated by the infrared thermometer module may be displayed or is displayed on the screen. In a preferred embodiment, the impact therapy device further comprises an attachment connected to a distal end of the push rod assembly, a temperature sensor, and a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide user instructions to apply the attachment to the first body part until the temperature sensor senses that the first body part has reached a predetermined temperature. In one embodiment, once the predetermined temperature is reached, user instructions are provided to apply the attachment to the second body part or to perform any other part of a routine as described herein (e.g., warming up the second body part).

In a preferred embodiment, the impact therapy device has a heart rate monitor. Preferably, the heart rate monitor is located on the first handle portion. In a preferred embodiment, the heart rate monitor is located on the top surface of the first handle portion and is configured to direct light (e.g., infrared light) onto the palm of the user to monitor the heart rate. In another preferred embodiment, the heart rate sensor has first and second pulse contacts located on the first handle portion. Preferably, the first pulse contact is located on the top surface of the first handle portion and the second pulse contact is located on the bottom surface of the first handle portion. Also, the first pulse contact and the second pulse contact can be located on a side of the first handle portion or on separate handle portions (e.g., the first pulse contact is on the first handle portion and the second pulse contact is on the second handle portion).

In a preferred embodiment, the percussion therapy device has a male or female attachment member on the distal end of a push rod assembly having a heating element therein. In another preferred embodiment, the percussion therapy device has a male or female attachment member on the distal end of the push rod assembly, the male or female attachment member having a first set of electrical contacts. Preferably, the percussion therapy device has a massage member removably secured to a male or female attachment member having a second set of electrical contacts electrically connected to a heating element in the massage member. Preferably, the attachment member is a male attachment member having first and second balls biased outwardly therefrom, the first and second balls being the first set of electrical contacts.

In a preferred embodiment, the impact therapy device has a software application executable on the portable device configured to control operation of the impact therapy device, the software application having routines that are accessed based on scanning a scannable member with the portable device.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method of using a percussive therapy device is provided, the method comprising the steps of connecting the percussive massage device to a software application on a remote electronic device, scanning a scannable member on an exercise device, where a routine associated with the scannable member is initiated in the software application and providing user instructions, and massaging a first body part based on the user instructions. The method may also include using the exercise device, where the first body part is exercised during use of the exercise device. In other words, the body part or set of muscles targeted by the exercise device is the same body part or set of muscles targeted by the percussive therapy device in the routine presented on the app after scanning the scannable member with the mobile device.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a percussive therapy or percussive massage device having a housing, a power source, a motor disposed within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the percussive therapy device in response to a user input, and to initiate at least one step of the protocol in which the percussive therapy device is applied in response to the at least one output. It will be appreciated that the terms percussive massage device and percussive therapy device are used interchangeably throughout. These terms are synonymous and generally have the same meaning. Commercial embodiments of the applicant's device are commonly referred to in the market as percussive therapy devices, and therefore this term is used in the market.

In a preferred embodiment, the at least one output comprises one or more of the duration the shock therapy device is activated (either automatically or by the user turning the shock therapy device on and off via prompts), the speed of the attachment of the shock therapy device (either automatically or by the user switching from one speed to another via prompts), the force applied by the attachment (by the user using the device), the amplitude of the attachment, and the temperature of the attachment.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussion therapy device includes a force meter configured to monitor and display the force applied by an attachment of the percussion therapy device. The force display is provided to a user and configured to allow the user to adjust the force to correspond to a target force (which may be defined to have a target force range) to be applied during at least one step of the protocol.

In a preferred embodiment, the impact therapy device has or is configured to communicate with an application (software application or app) configured to provide a user interface (e.g., on a user's mobile device such as a phone or tablet). Preferably, the impact therapy device has a touchscreen configured to provide or provide a user interface. In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted (e.g., visually, audibly or tactilely via the app, or visually, audibly or tactilely via a touchscreen on the impact therapy device, or via a separate screen or audible prompt) to use a particular grip on the impact therapy device.

In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted (e.g., visually, audibly, or tactilely) to place an attachment of the percussion therapy device on a particular body part. Preferably, the user is prompted (e.g., visually, audibly, or tactilely) to set the arm position of the percussion therapy device. During at least one step of the percussion therapy, the user is prompted to apply at least one output via at least one of haptic feedback, sound, visual representation (e.g., pictures, graphics, etc.), and text. In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted (e.g., visually, audibly, or tactilely) to move the attachment from a start point to an end point on a particular body part during at least one step of the protocol.

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

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

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for executing a routine for a shock therapy device, the method comprising the steps of initiating a protocol configured to apply at least one output of the shock therapy device in response to a user input, and initiating at least one step of the protocol in which the shock therapy device is applied in response to the at least one output. The at least one output comprises a period during which the shock therapy device is activated, a speed of an attachment of the shock therapy device, an amplitude of the attachment, a force applied by the attachment, and a temperature applied by the attachment. The shock therapy device is configured to provide a prompt to use a particular grip of the shock therapy device and to apply the attachment to a particular body part at the start of the protocol, and is configured to monitor a measured force being applied by the attachment and display the measured force to a user, the measured force being displayed to the user so that the user can adjust the applied force to correspond to a target force predetermined by at least one step of the protocol.

In a preferred embodiment, the user is prompted to set the arm position of the impact therapy device and/or the user is prompted to apply the attachment to a new specific body part during at least one step of the protocol and/or the user is prompted to attach a new attachment to the impact therapy device during at least one step of the protocol and/or the user is prompted to move the attachment from one predefined point on the body part to a second predefined body part during at least one step of the protocol.

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

In a preferred embodiment, the percussion therapy device has a wireless connection device (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.) for connecting to a remote device. "Remote" means that any device is remote from the percussion therapy device. A device does not have to be far away to be remote. Preferably, the power source is any rechargeable battery, and the percussion massage device further has an optional wireless charging receiver in electrical communication with the battery. Preferably, the percussion therapy device has an optional touch screen.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is a brushless motor, the motor mounting portion is disposed within the housing, the motor is secured to the motor mounting portion, and the motor mounting portion is secured to the housing. Preferably, the motor mounting portion has first and second side walls forming a motor mounting portion interior therebetween. The motor is secured to the first side wall, and the second side wall is secured to the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the motor has a motor shaft extending into the motor mounting portion interior through a protruding opening formed in the first side wall of the motor mounting portion, and at least a portion of the push rod assembly is disposed within the motor mounting portion.

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

In a preferred embodiment, the impact therapy device has a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol for operating the motor for at least a first time period and a subsequent second time period. The routine controller is configured to provide first user instructions for performing a first task comprising at least one of treating a first body part, moving an attachment along a first treatment path, and connecting the first attachment to a distal end of a push rod assembly during the first time period, and the routine controller is configured to provide second user instructions for performing a second task comprising at least one of treating a second body part, moving an attachment along a second treatment path, and connecting the second attachment to a distal end of a push rod assembly during the second time period. Also, the first user instructions may include instructions for gripping one of the first, second, or third handle portions, and the second user instructions may include instructions for gripping the same or another of the first, second, or third handle portions. Preferably, the first and second user instructions are provided via a touch screen on the percussion therapy device or on an application on a remote electronic device, and the first user instructions may include instructions for applying a first target force (based on the force meter readings) and the second user instructions may include instructions for applying either the first target force or the second target force (based on the force meter readings).

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

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using an percussive massage device, the method comprising the steps of obtaining a percussive massage device having a housing having a first handle portion, a second handle portion and a third handle portion that cooperate to form a handle opening, a power source, a motor disposed within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. The method also includes the steps of activating the motor with the switch, gripping the first handle portion, massaging the first body part, alternatively gripping the second handle portion to massage the first body part, and alternatively gripping the third handle portion to massage the first body part. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion defines a first axis, the second handle portion defines a second axis, and the third handle portion defines a third axis, the first, second and third axes cooperating to form a triangle. In a preferred embodiment, the method includes gripping the second handle portion and massaging the second body part, gripping the third handle portion and massaging the third body part.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an percussive massage device having a housing, a power source, a motor disposed within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor. In a preferred embodiment, the housing has a first handle portion, a second handle portion, and a third handle portion that cooperate to form a handle opening, the first handle portion defining a first axis, the second handle portion defining a second axis, and the third handle portion defining a third axis, the first axis, the second axis, and the third axis cooperatively forming a triangle.

Preferably, the first handle portion has a first handle portion inner edge and defines a length of the first handle portion, the length of which is sufficient for at least a portion of three fingers to extend through the handle opening and contact the first handle portion inner edge when the user grasps the first handle portion by hand. Preferably, the second handle portion has a second handle portion inner edge and defines a length of the second handle portion, the length of which is sufficient for at least a portion of three fingers to extend through the handle opening and contact the second handle portion inner edge when the user grasps the second handle portion by hand. Preferably, the third handle portion has a third handle portion inner edge and defines a length of the third handle portion, the length of which is sufficient for at least a portion of three fingers to extend through the handle opening and contact the third handle portion inner edge when the user grasps the third handle portion by hand. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion is generally straight, the second handle portion is generally straight, and the third handle portion is generally straight. By "generally straight" we mean that the majority of the handle portions are straight, but may have rounded edges or corners where different handle portions meet, or where multiple handle portions meet with bulges or finger ridges, etc.

In a preferred embodiment, the switch has switch electronics associated with it, the power source is a battery housed in the second handle portion, and the switch electronics is housed in the first handle portion. Preferably, the motor is configured to rotate a pinion shaft having a pinion gear thereon about a shaft rotation axis. The housing has a gear member disposed within the housing operably engaged with the pinion gear and rotating about the gear rotation axis. The push rod assembly is operably connected to the gear member, and rotational motion of the pinion shaft is converted to reciprocating motion of the push rod assembly through engagement of the pinion gear and the gear member. The motor has a motor shaft extending outwardly from the motor, and a pinion coupling assembly is disposed between the motor shaft and the pinion shaft. The pinion coupling has a lower connector operably connected to the motor shaft, an upper connector operably connected to the pinion shaft, and a cross coupling disposed between the lower connector and the upper connector. In a preferred embodiment, the lower connector has a body portion defining a central opening for receiving the motor shaft and first and second lower connector arms extending outwardly from the body portion, the upper connector has a body portion defining a central opening for receiving the pinion shaft and first and second upper connector arms extending outwardly from the body portion, the cross coupling has a plurality of radially extending ribs, and the first and second lower connector members and the first and second upper connector members operably engage the plurality of radially extending ribs. Preferably, the lower connector and the upper connector comprise plastic, and the cross coupling comprises an elastomer.

In a preferred embodiment, the gear member is disposed within a rotating housing that is rotatable between at least a first position and a second position. A gearbox housing that houses the gear member is disposed within the rotating housing. The gearbox housing has a clearance slot formed therein having a first end and a second end. A push rod assembly extends through the clearance slot, and when the rotating housing is rotated from the first position to the second position, the push rod assembly moves within the clearance slot from a position adjacent the first end to a position adjacent the second end.

In a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly includes a first rod portion having a proximal end and a distal end, and a second rod portion having a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the first rod portion is operably connected to a motor. An adapter assembly is disposed between the first rod portion and the second rod portion. The adapter assembly allows the first rod portion to rotate relative to the second rod portion. Preferably, the adapter assembly includes an adapter member having a pocket therein for receiving the distal end of the first rod portion. A pivot pin extends into the pocket and through the distal end of the first rod portion. In a preferred embodiment, the adapter member includes a protrusion that is received within the proximal end of the second rod portion.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a massage device is provided having a housing, an electrical input, a motor, a switch in electrical communication with the electrical input and the motor and configured to selectively provide power from the electrical input to the motor, an actuation output operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to actuation of the motor, and a treatment structure operatively connected to a distal end of the actuation output. The actuation output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of about 15 Hz to about 100 Hz and with an amplitude of about 3.8 mm (about 0.15 inches) to about 25 mm (about 1.0 inches). The combination of amplitude and frequency provides efficient reciprocating motion of the treatment structure such that the treatment structure provides therapeutically beneficial treatment to the target muscles of the user.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuation output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of about 25 Hz to about 48 Hz and an amplitude of about 5.8 mm (about 0.23 inches) to about 17.8 mm (about 0.70 inches). In another preferred embodiment, the actuation output is configured to reciprocate the treatment structure at a frequency of about 33 Hz to about 42 Hz and an amplitude of about 8.9 mm (about 0.35 inches) to about 16.5 mm (about 0.65 inches).

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a percussive massage device with a force meter having a housing, a power source, a motor disposed within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a controller configured to obtain a voltage of the motor, generate a look-up table correlating the voltage to a force applied by the percussive massage device, and display a force amplitude corresponding to the obtained voltage using the look-up table. In a preferred embodiment, the look-up table is generated by determining a maximum amplitude of the force configured to be applied by the percussive massage device, determining a maximum amplitude of the voltage configured to be applied to the percussive massage device from the power source, dividing the maximum amplitude of the force into a plurality of equal force increments, and dividing the maximum amplitude of the voltage into a plurality of equal voltage increments. The number of the plurality of equal force increments and the number of the plurality of equal voltage increments are the same. Preferably, the percussive massage device has a battery pack and a display configured to indicate the amount of force applied by the percussive massage device. In a preferred embodiment, the display has a series of LEDs. In a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device has an organic light emitting diode screen.

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

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for displaying the force of a percussive massage device, comprising the steps of obtaining a voltage of a motor of the percussive massage device, generating a look-up table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device, and displaying a force amplitude corresponding to the obtained voltage using the look-up table. In a preferred embodiment, the look-up table correlating the voltage and the force is linear. Preferably, the look-up table is generated by determining a maximum amplitude of the force configured to be applied by the percussive massage device, determining a maximum amplitude of the voltage configured to be applied to the percussive massage device from a power source, dividing the maximum amplitude of the force into a plurality of equal force increments, and dividing the maximum amplitude of the voltage into a plurality of equal voltage increments, the number of the plurality of equal force increments being the same as the number of the plurality of equal voltage increments.

In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the steps of obtaining a maximum power supply voltage of the percussive massage device, setting the maximum power supply voltage to a maximum amplitude of the voltage, dividing the maximum amplitude of the voltage into equal voltage increments, where the number of equal force increments is the same as the number of equal voltage increments, generating an updated lookup table correlating voltages corresponding to forces applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to a range of voltages determined by the maximum power supply voltage, and displaying calibrated force amplitudes corresponding to the power supply voltages using the updated lookup table. In a preferred embodiment, the method includes the steps of obtaining at least two power supply voltages each corresponding to a force amplitude, where the force amplitudes are determined from the displayed force amplitudes, measuring the force amplitude applied by the percussive massage device using an external force meter for each of the at least two power supply voltages, and generating an updated lookup table correlating voltages to forces applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the measured force amplitudes.

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

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for displaying the force of a percussive massage device, the method comprising the steps of obtaining a current amplitude of a battery pack of the percussive massage device, obtaining a voltage amplitude of the battery pack, determining a power amplitude using the current amplitude and the voltage amplitude of the battery pack, generating a look-up table correlating the power amplitude to the force amplitude applied by the percussive massage device, and displaying the force amplitude corresponding to the obtained power amplitude using the look-up table. In a preferred embodiment, the force amplitude is displayed utilizing a series of LEDs that are activated in response to the force amplitude. Preferably, the look-up table is generated by determining a maximum power amplitude to be input to the percussive massage device, determining a minimum power amplitude of the percussive massage device when the percussive massage device is unloaded, determining a maximum force amplitude configured to be applied to the percussive massage device from a power source, dividing the maximum power amplitude into equal power increments, and dividing the maximum force amplitude into equal force increments. The number of equal power increments and the number of equal force increments are the same. Preferably, the maximum power amplitude is a maximum active power amplitude derived from the total active power.

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

It will be understood that the inventive features described herein may be used in any type of percussive massage device. For example, the force gauge and other features taught herein may be used in the percussive massage device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,357,425 (the "'425 Patent"), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

In one embodiment, the non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to obtain a voltage of a motor of a percussive massage device, generate a look-up table correlating the voltage with the force applied by the percussive massage device, and display, using the look-up table, a force amplitude corresponding to the obtained voltage.

According to one embodiment, the look-up table is generated by determining a maximum amplitude of the force configured to be applied by the percussive massage device, determining a maximum amplitude of the voltage configured to be applied from the power source to the percussive massage device, dividing the maximum amplitude of the force into equal force increments, and dividing the maximum amplitude of the voltage into equal voltage increments. According to one embodiment, the number of equal force increments and the number of equal voltage increments are the same.

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

In another embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable medium stores software instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to obtain at least two power supply voltages each corresponding to a force amplitude determined from the displayed force amplitude, measure the force amplitude applied by the percussive massage device with an external force meter for each of the at least two power supply voltages, and generate an updated lookup table correlating voltages to forces applied by the percussive massage device corresponding to the measured force amplitudes.

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

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

In a preferred embodiment, the motor converts power from a power source into motion, in one embodiment. In some embodiments, the motor is an electric motor. The electric motor may be any type of electric motor known in the art, including, but not limited to, a brushed motor, a brushless motor, a direct current (DC) motor, an alternating current (AC) motor, a mechanically commutated motor, an electronically commutated motor, or an externally commutated motor.

In some embodiments, the actuation output or output shaft reciprocates at a speed of about 65 Hz. In some embodiments, the actuation output reciprocates at a speed greater than 50 Hz. The reciprocating therapeutic device provides reciprocating motion at a speed in the range of 50 Hz to 80 Hz in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the actuation output has a maximum articulation speed of 50 Hz to 80 Hz. In another embodiment, the actuation output has a articulation speed of 30 Hz to 80 Hz. In a particular embodiment, the actuation output has an articulation speed of about 37 Hz. In one embodiment, the actuation output has an articulation speed of about 60 Hz. In a preferred embodiment, the actuation output articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of about 15 Hz to about 100 Hz. In a more preferred embodiment, the actuation output articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of about 25 Hz to about 48 Hz. In a most preferred embodiment, the actuation output articulates or reciprocates at a frequency of about 33 Hz to about 42 Hz. Any selected range within the specified range is within the scope of the present invention.

The actuation output can move through a predetermined range of reciprocating motion. For example, the actuation output can be configured to have an amplitude of 12.7 mm (1/2 inch). In another embodiment, the actuation output can be configured to have an amplitude of 6.4 mm (1/4 inch). As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the actuation output can be configured to have any amplitude that is deemed therapeutically beneficial.

In some embodiments, the actuation output may be adjustable through a variable range of reciprocating motion. For example, a reciprocating therapy device may have an input for adjusting the reciprocating amplitude in the range of ¼ inch to 1 inch. In a preferred embodiment, the actuation output moves with an amplitude between about 0.15 inch to about 1.0 inch. In a more preferred embodiment, the actuation output articulates or reciprocates with a frequency between about 0.23 inch to about 0.70 inch. In a most preferred embodiment, the actuation output articulates or reciprocates with a frequency between about 0.35 inch to about 0.65 inch. Any selected range within the specified ranges is within the scope of the present invention.

It will be appreciated that the device operates most effectively within the combined frequency and amplitude ranges. In developing the invention, the inventors determined that if the frequency and amplitude are above the above ranges, the device will cause pain and if they are below the above ranges, the device will be ineffective and will not provide effective therapeutic relief or massage. Only when the device operates within the disclosed combination of frequency and amplitude ranges will it provide efficient and therapeutically beneficial treatment to the muscles it targets.

In certain embodiments, the reciprocating therapy device has one or more components for adjusting the speed of articulation of the actuation output in response to various levels of power provided at the power input. For example, the reciprocating therapy device may have a voltage regulator (not shown) for supplying a substantially constant voltage to the motor over a range of input voltages. In another embodiment, the current supplied to the motor may be adjusted. In some embodiments, operation of the reciprocating therapy device may be limited in response to the input voltage falling below a preset value.

In a preferred embodiment, the percussion massage device has a brushless motor. Naturally, a brushless motor does not have any gears and is quieter than a geared motor.

The device has a push rod or shaft that is directly connected to the motor by a pin. In a preferred embodiment, the push rod is L-shaped or has an arc shape. Preferably, the point where the push rod connects to the pin is offset from the reciprocating path that the distal end of the push rod (and massage attachment) travels. This function is provided by the arc or L-shape. It should be understood that the push rod is designed to transmit forces diagonally rather than vertically, so the motor can be located at or near the center of the device. Otherwise, a protrusion would be necessary to keep the shaft centered with the motor offset from it (and located within the protrusion). The arc also allows the push rod to have a tight clearance with the motor, allowing the outer housing to be smaller than similar prior art devices, thus making the device lower profile. Preferably, two bearings are included at the proximal end of the push rod that connects to the motor to counteract the diagonal forces and prevent the push rod from moving and touching the motor at this proximal end.

In a preferred embodiment, the device has a touch screen for stopping, starting, activating, etc. The touch screen may have other functions as well. Preferably, the device has a thumb wheel or rolling button located near the touch screen on/off button to allow the user to scroll or navigate the various functions. Preferably, the device also has a variable amplitude or stroke. For example, the stroke varies or can vary between about 8 mm and 16 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the device is associated with and can be operated by an app or software running on a mobile device such as a phone, watch or tablet (or any computer). The app can connect to the device via Bluetooth or other connection protocols. The app can have any or all of the following functions: Additionally, any of the functions described herein can be added directly to the functionality of the touch screen/scroll wheel or button(s) on the device. If the user walks or stands too far away from the device, the device will not work or will not activate. The device can be turned on and off with the app as well as the touch screen or buttons on the device. The app can control a variable speed (e.g., anything between 1750 RPM and 3000 RPM). A timer will stop the device after a predefined time. The app can also have different treatment protocols associated with it. This allows the user to choose which protocol or area of the body they want to work on. Once they choose to start the protocol, the device will run the routine. For example, the device can operate at a first RPM for a first period of time, then at a second RPM for a second period of time, and/or at a first amplitude for a first period of time, then at a second amplitude for a second period of time. The routines can also have prompts (e.g., haptic feedback) to inform the user to move to a new body part. These routines or treatments can relate to recovery, increased blood flow, performance, etc., and each can have pre-programmed routines. The routines can also prompt or instruct the user to switch positions of the treatment structures (AmpBITS) or arms or rotating heads. Prompts can include sounds, haptic feedback (such as vibrations of the device or mobile device), text instructions on an app or touch screen, etc. For example, the app can instruct the user to start with the ball treatment structure with the arms in position 2. The user then hits start and the device operates at the first frequency for a pre-defined time. The app or device then prompts the user to begin the next step in the routine, instructing the user to change to the cone treatment structure and place the arm in position 1. The user hits start again and the device operates at the second frequency for a predefined period of time.

In a preferred embodiment, the app has near field communication ("NFC") capabilities or other capabilities that allow the user's mobile device with the app to scan an identifier, e.g., a barcode or QR code, that prompts the app to display certain information, such as the routines described above. In use, the user can tap or place the mobile device near an NFC tag (or scan a QR code) on a piece of gym equipment, and the app will display instructions, content, or lessons customized for using the device with the piece of gym equipment. For example, on a treadmill, the user scans a QR code or NFC tag, and the app recognizes that the user is about to use the treadmill. The app can then provide instructions on how to use the device in combination with the treadmill and begin a pre-programmed routine for using the treadmill. For example, the user can be instructed to start with the left quadriceps. Then, after a predetermined time (e.g., 15 seconds), the device or mobile device with the app software will vibrate or provide other haptic feedback. The user then switches to the left quad and after a predetermined period of time, the device vibrates again. The user can then begin using the treadmill. Any routine is within the scope of the present invention. According to one embodiment, the device and/or app (i.e., the mobile device housing the app) can also communicate (such as via Bluetooth) with gym equipment (e.g., the treadmill).

Preferably, the device has an articulation assembly that allows the output shaft to rotate relative to the housing. The button is located on the underside of the third handle portion. When the button is pressed inward, it moves the beak member upwards. The beak member captures a peg protruding from a rod. The end of the rod is received in one of several articulation openings formed in the motor housing. The beak member is angled away from the motor housing. Thus, when the beak member moves upwards (as a result of the underside being pressed), the peg and therefore the rod moves away from the motor housing and the end of the rod is pulled out of the articulation opening. This allows the motor housing to rotate or articulate. The rod is biased towards the motor housing. Thus, when the button is released, the rod is pushed into another articulation opening. The beak member pivots on the pivot pin to move the beak member (as a result of the angled surface interacting with the button), thus moving the peg and rod away from the motor housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the housing has a clip, preferably made of metal (but could also be made of plastic or other materials). The clip holds the two housing halves or parts together.

The device may also have a torque or force meter to let the user know how much force they are applying. A display associated with the force meter shows how much force is being applied to the muscle. The force meter allows for more precise and effective treatment. The device has a torque measurement sensor and a display. The force to be applied varies depending on the muscle the device is being used on and the benefit the user is looking for (preparation, execution, recovery). Having a torque sensor allows the user to receive a more precise and personalized treatment. An app and touch screen can provide force information to the user. The force meter can be integrated into the routine and provide feedback to the user on whether they are applying too much or too little pressure. The device may also have a heat sensor or thermometer that can determine the temperature of the user's muscles and provide feedback to the device and/or app. Haptic feedback can also provide feedback for too much pressure or force.

In a preferred embodiment, the impact massage device has a motor mount for mounting a brushless motor within a housing and distributing forces from the motor to the housing when actuated. The motor is secured to a first side of the motor mount and a second or opposing side of the motor mount is secured to the housing. The motor mount has a number of arms that space the motor from the housing and define a reciprocating space in which the push rod and associated components (such as a counterweight) reciprocate. A threaded fastener connects the motor mount to the housing. In a preferred embodiment, a damping member or damping leg is received on the shaft of the threaded fastener. The damping members each have an annular slot formed therein. The annular slot receives the housing. This prevents the threaded fastener from directly contacting the housing and reduces sound due to vibration. The threaded fastener is received within an opening in a tab at the end of the arm.

In a preferred embodiment, the motor is housed in a motor housing that is rotatable within the main housing. The motor housing is essentially the same as the gearbox housing in the related embodiment. In a preferred embodiment, the motor housing has opposing openings on the exterior, exposing the motor on one side and the motor mounting on the other side. These openings provide ventilation for the motor and allow the motor mounting to be directly connected to the main housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the device has a touch screen as well as buttons for operating the device. For example, the device may have a touch screen, a center button for turning the device on and off, and ring/rocker buttons that provide the ability to scroll left/right (e.g., for preset treatments described herein) and up/down (e.g., to control speed or frequency). The screen may also be a non-touch screen.

In another preferred embodiment, any of the devices taught herein can have the ability to vary the amplitude, thus providing longer or shorter strokes depending on the application or needs of the user. The variability of the amplitude can be part of the routines or presets described herein. For example, the device can have a mechanical switch that allows the eccentricity of the connector to be modified (e.g., between 4mm and 8mm). The mechanism can have a push button and a slider. The pin structure has a spring that can return itself to a locked position.

In a preferred embodiment, the device has a touch screen for stopping, activating, actuating, etc. The touch screen may have other functions as well. Preferably, the device has a thumb wheel or rolling button located near the touch screen on/off button to allow the user to scroll or navigate the various functions.

In a preferred embodiment, the device has an articulation assembly that allows the output shaft to rotate relative to the housing. The button is located on the underside of the third handle portion. When the button is pressed inward, it moves the beak member upward. The end of the rod is received in one of several articulation openings formed in the motor housing. The beak member is angled away from the motor housing. Thus, when the beak member moves upward (as a result of the underside being pressed), the peg and therefore the rod moves away from the motor housing and the end of the rod is pulled out of the articulation opening. This allows the motor housing to rotate or articulate. The rod is biased towards the motor housing. Thus, when the button is released, the rod is pushed into another articulation opening. In a preferred embodiment, the beak member pivots on a pivot pin to move the beak member (as a result of the angled surface interacting with the button) and thus the peg and rod move away from the motor housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the arm cover and the upper portion of the male connector each have rounded edges to prevent the user's fingers from getting caught in them. In a preferred embodiment, the male connector has alignment tabs above each ball that mate with slots in the female opening. These tabs aid in proper alignment with the treatment structure.

In another embodiment, other impact massage devices (commercially by Prime and Elite) have a different motor orientation (the motor shaft axis extends perpendicular to the motor shaft axis of the other devices described herein (G4PRO)). In this embodiment, the motor mount does not have arms, but rather a tab has a threaded fastener with an annular slot for mounting to the housing and associated damping member. Additionally, the motor mount attaches to both housing halves or housing sections (as opposed to G4PRO, where the motor mount attaches to only one housing half). Cylindrical damping legs are received within openings in the housing halves. Threaded fasteners are received within the cylindrical damping legs to connect the housing halves or housing sections together, thereby reducing vibration.

In another preferred embodiment, any of the devices taught herein may have a mechanism for heating or altering the temperature of an attachment (massage element, treatment structure, amp bit) on the end of the reciprocating shaft. The attachment may have an electrical resistance element therein that provides heating to the muscle. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical resistance element is connected to a PCB through a hollow shaft. Two outwardly biased metal spring balls on the male connector act as electrical connectors to the attachment.

In a preferred embodiment, an electrically resistive member (e.g., a heating pad) is located at the end of the male connector. In this embodiment, wires connect the electrically resistive member to the PCB and battery. The wires are routed through a hollow shaft or other conduit, the housing, and the shaft into the male connector.

In another embodiment, an electrically resistive member (e.g., a heating pad) is located in or on the attachment (e.g., a ball, cone, etc.) and a metallic connection between the male connector and the attachment is used to electrically connect to the battery.

In another embodiment, the percussion massage device may have a heart rate sensor (e.g., on the top handle of the device). Preferably, the handle has a recess for the user to place their index finger in where the sensor is located. The sensor is connected to the main printed circuit board and the data is displayed on the screen.

In another embodiment, the device can have an infrared thermometer module located within the body of the device (e.g., on the third handle portion) that allows a user to measure the temperature of the user's muscles or other body parts.

The present invention can be more easily understood by referring to the accompanying drawings below.

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an impact massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is another side elevational view of the percussion massage device of FIG. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the impact massage device. FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device showing a user gripping the first handle portion. FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device showing a user gripping the third handle portion. FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device showing a user gripping the second handle portion. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the impact massage device. FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the drive system of the impact massage device. FIG. 8 is another exploded perspective view of a portion of the percussion massage device. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of components of a drive system of the impact massage device. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a push rod assembly of the percussion massage device. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another impact massage device. 12 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device of FIG. FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the percussive massage device, showing some of the internal components in hidden lines. FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of some of the internal components of the percussion massage device. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another impact massage device. 16 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device of FIG. 15. FIG. FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing the interconnected components of a percussion massage device with a force meter. FIG. 18 is a circuit diagram of a microcontroller unit with pin outs according to one embodiment. FIG. 19 is a circuit diagram used for battery voltage detection according to one embodiment. FIG. 20 is a circuit diagram for detecting and measuring the voltage of the motor of an impact massage device, according to one embodiment. FIG. 21 is a flow chart illustrating a method for detecting the force exerted by an impact massage device, according to a preferred embodiment. FIG. 22 is a flow chart illustrating a method for generating a lookup table correlating voltage to force in accordance with a preferred embodiment. FIG. 23 is a graph plotting a look-up table for use by a method for detecting the force applied by a percussion massage device, generated by correlating voltage to force, in accordance with a preferred embodiment. FIG. 24 is a flow chart illustrating a method for calibrating a lookup table according to a preferred embodiment. FIG. 25 is a graph plotting a lookup table generated by a method for detecting the force applied by an impact massage device against a lookup table calibrated by using a method for calibrating a lookup table according to a preferred embodiment. FIG. 26 is a flow chart illustrating a method for calibrating a lookup table. FIG. 27 is a graph plotting the lookup table after it has been calibrated according to the preferred embodiment. FIG. 28 is a flow chart illustrating a method for detecting the force exerted by an impact massage device, according to a preferred embodiment. FIG. 29 is a flow chart illustrating a method for generating a lookup table correlating power and force in accordance with a preferred embodiment. FIG. 30 is a graph plotting a lookup table for use by a method of detecting force, generated by correlating power and force, in accordance with a preferred embodiment. FIG. 31 is a flow chart illustrating a method for calibrating a lookup table in accordance with a preferred embodiment. FIG. 32 is a graph plotting the lookup table after it has been calibrated according to the preferred embodiment. FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an impact massage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 34 is a perspective view of the impact massager of FIG. 13 with a portion of the housing removed. FIG. 35 is a perspective view of the motor. FIG. 36 is a side elevational view of an impact massage device in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 37 is another side elevational view of the percussion massage device. FIG. 38 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device showing a user gripping the first handle portion. FIG. 39 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device showing a user gripping the third handle portion. FIG. 40 is a side elevational view of the percussion massage device showing a user gripping the second handle portion. 41 is a perspective view of the percussion massage device of FIG. 18 with a portion of the housing removed. FIG. 42A is a cross-sectional view of the head portion and the motor. FIG. 42B is a cross-sectional view of the head portion and the motor. 43 is an exploded view of some of the internal components of the percussion massage device of FIG. FIG. 43A is an exploded view of the motor and motor mount. FIG. 44 is a chart showing the steps of Protocol 1 according to a method of performing a routine for an impact massage device. FIG. 45 is a chart showing the steps of a "shin splints" protocol according to a method of performing a routine for a percussion massage device. FIG. 46A is a method of implementing a routine for an impact massage device. FIG. 46B is a method of implementing a routine for an impact massage device. FIG. 46C is a method of implementing a routine for an impact massage device. FIG. 46D is a method of implementing a routine for an impact massage device. FIG. 47 is a front view of a graphical user interface illustrating the "Textneck" protocol. FIG. 48 is a front view of the graphical user interface showing the "Right Biceps" protocol. FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the percussion massage device with a portion of the housing removed to show the motor mount oriented with the motor shaft axis extending longitudinally. 50 is an exploded perspective view of the motor mount, motor and other components shown in FIG. 49. FIG. 51 is a perspective view showing the motor and motor mounting portion exploded from within the housing. FIG. 52 is a perspective view showing the motor and motor mounting portion disassembled from within the housing on the opposite side to that shown in FIG. 51. FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional perspective view. FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a percussion massage device with a heart rate monitor. FIG. 55 is a perspective view of an impact massage device having a heart rate monitor with first and second pulse contacts. FIG. 56 is a perspective view of an impact massage device having a temperature sensor or monitor. FIG. 56A is a detailed view of the on-screen temperature readings taken from FIG. FIG. 57 is a schematic side elevational view of a percussive therapy device having a heated male attachment member. FIG. 58 is a schematic side elevational view of a ballistic therapy device including a male attachment member having a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. FIG. 59 is a bottom view of a male attachment member having a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact. FIG. 60 is a massage member having a heating element. FIG. 61 is a diagram of an exercise device with a scannable member and a user with a percussion therapy device and a handheld device. FIG. 62 is a close-up view of the scannable member of FIG.

Like numbers refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

The following description and drawings are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not set forth in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or another embodiment in the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment. Such references mean at least one of several embodiments.

References herein to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with this embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor to separate or alternative embodiments that are mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Furthermore, various features are described, but these features may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by other embodiments. Similarly, various requirements are described, but these requirements may be requirements for some embodiments and not other embodiments.

The terms used herein generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, in the context of this disclosure, and in the specific context in which each term is used. Certain terms used to describe this disclosure are explained below or elsewhere in the specification to provide further guidance to those of skill in the art regarding the description of this disclosure. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example, using italics and/or quotation marks. The use of highlighting does not affect the scope and meaning of the term. The scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be understood that the same thing can be said in more than one way.

As a result, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms described herein. Also, no special meaning is noted whether a term is elaborated herein. Synonyms of particular terms are provided. The description of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification with examples of any term described herein is merely illustrative and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or any exemplary term. Similarly, the disclosure is not limited to the various aspects described herein.

Without intending to further limit the scope of the present disclosure, examples of instruments, devices, methods and their related results according to embodiments of the present disclosure are provided below. Please note that names or subtitles may be used in the examples for the convenience of the reader. In this case, they should not limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as "front", "back", "top", "bottom", "side", "short", "long", "up", "down" and "below" used herein are for ease of explanation only and refer to the orientation of the components as shown in the figures. It should be understood that any orientation of the components described herein is within the scope of the present invention.

Many embodiments are described herein, at least some of which provide devices, systems, and methods for reciprocating therapeutic devices.

1-10 show one embodiment of a percussive massage device 212 having a rechargeable battery (and replaceable or removable battery) 114. The device 212 is commercially referred to as G3PRO. As shown in FIGS. 1-1A, in a preferred embodiment, the percussive massage device 212 has three handle portions (referred to herein as a first handle portion 143, a second handle portion 145, and a third handle portion 147) that cooperate to form a central or handle opening 149. All of these handle portions are long enough to allow a person to grasp that particular handle portion and utilize the device. This ability to grasp different handle portions allows a person to use the device on different body parts and at different angles (when using the device on their own body part), thus providing the ability to reach body parts, such as the back, that may not be possible without the three handle portions.

As shown in FIG. 1, the first handle portion 143 defines a first handle portion axis A1, the second handle portion 145 defines a second handle portion axis A2, and the third handle portion 147 defines a third handle portion axis A3, which together form a triangle. In a preferred embodiment, the battery 114 is housed within the second handle portion 145 and the motor 106 is housed within the third handle portion 147.

3-5 show a user's hands gripping the various handle portions. The length of each of the first, second and third handle portions is sufficiently long so that a person with large hands can comfortably grip each handle portion with at least three or four fingers extending through the handle opening as shown in FIGS. 3-5. In a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion 143 has an inner edge 143a, the second handle portion 145 has an inner edge 145a and the third handle portion 147 has an inner edge 147a, all of which cooperate to at least partially define the handle opening 149. As shown in FIG. 1, in a preferred embodiment, the first handle portion 143 has a finger projection 151 having a finger surface 151a or a fourth inner surface that extends between the inner edge 143a of the first handle portion and the inner edge 147a of the third handle portion 147 and at least partially defines the handle opening 149. As shown in FIG. 3, in use, a user can place their index finger against finger surface 151a. The finger ridges and surface provide a feedback point or support surface when the user places their index finger against the surface to aid the user in control and comfort of using the device. In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of finger surface 151a is straight (as opposed to the other "corners" of handle opening 149, which are rounded) as shown in FIG. 1.

1A shows the preferred dimensions of the interior surface of the handle opening 149. It will be appreciated that the interior surface comprises a series of flat and curved surfaces. H1 is the dimension of the inner edge 143a of the first handle portion 143 (first handle portion length). H2 is the dimension of the inner edge 145a of the second handle portion 145 (second handle portion length). H3 is the dimension of the inner edge 147a of the third handle portion 147 (third handle portion length). H4 is the dimension of the finger surface 151a (finger projection length). R1 is the radius between the inner edge 143a and the inner edge 145a, and R2 is the radius between the inner edge 145a and the inner edge 147a.
In a preferred embodiment, H1 is about 94 mm, H2 is about 66 mm, H3 is about 96 mm, H4 is about 12 mm, R1 is about 6.5 mm, and R2 is about 6.5 mm, which provides an arc length of about 10.2 mm. In the context of this specification, "about" means within 5 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the inner edge of the handle opening is about 289 mm. The length of the inner edge of the handle opening may be between about 260 mm and about 320 mm for any combination of H1, H2, H3, H4, R1, and R2. It will be understood that these dimensions are optimized to allow 95% of men to grip any of the three handle portions with at least three, and preferably four, fingers extending through the handle opening to utilize the device. It will be appreciated that any or all of the surfaces R1 and R2 may be considered part of any of the three adjacent handle portions. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A, the finger surface 151a is linear, and the first handle portion inner surface, the second handle portion inner surface, the third handle portion inner surface, and the finger surface cooperate to form a rectangle having radii or rounded edges between each of the linear surfaces.

The device 212 further has multiple speed settings, preferably 1500 and 2400 RPM, but may be any speed or frequency as taught herein. Additionally, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that although the RPMs are listed as specific numbers, the RPMs may vary during use due to manufacturing tolerances. For example, at the 2400 RPM setting, the RPMs may actually vary between 2260 RPM and 2640 RPM.

Figures 6-10 show some of the internal and external components included in the treatment device 212 (208 and 210) shown in Figures 1-5 and 11-16. As shown in Figure 6, the percussive massage device 212 has a housing 101 made up of first and second housing halves 103. An outer cover 213 and a top cover 215 are received on and connected to the first and second housing halves 103 via tabs 105 or other mechanisms or attachment methods (e.g., threaded fasteners, clips, adhesives, sonic welding, etc.). The percussive massage device 212 also has a tambour door 217, a battery 114, an inner suspension ring 219, and a rotating housing 44 (comprising a first rotating housing half 44a and a second rotating housing half 44b) that houses the gearbox 404.

As shown in FIG. 7, the device has a pinion coupling assembly 216 disposed between the motor and the shaft gear 117 (located on the shaft or pinion shaft 116). The pinion coupling assembly 216 is used to couple the motor to the gearbox in a manner that fully transmits torque, which eliminates radial movement and minimizes vibration and noise. The pinion coupling assembly 216 preferably has three separate components: a lower connector 218, a cross coupling 220, and an upper connector 222. In a preferred embodiment, the lower connector 218 has a body portion 218a that defines a central opening 218b that receives the motor shaft 248, and first and second lower connector arms 218c that extend outwardly from the body portion 218a. The upper connector 222 has a body portion 222a defining a central opening 222b for receiving the pinion shaft 116, and first and second upper connector arms 222c, 222c extending outwardly from the body portion 222a. The cross coupling 220 preferably includes a plurality of radially extending ribs 220a defining a channel 220b therebetween. The first and second lower connector arms 218c, 218c and the first and second upper connector arms 222c, 222c are sized and shaped to be received within the channel 220b for operative engagement with the radially extending ribs. In use, the motor shaft 248 rotates the pinion coupling assembly, which in turn rotates the pinion shaft 116. Together, these components reduce noise and vibration. In a preferred embodiment, the lower and upper connectors are made of plastic and the cross coupling is made of elastomer. In a preferred embodiment, the cross coupling 220 is made of rubber with a hardness to isolate vibrations generated by the motor while maintaining strength and transmitting torque efficiently (without significant energy dissipation). However, the materials are not limited by the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the pinion shaft 116 is received within and extends through bearings 224 and 225. Preferably, bearing 224 comprises a ball bearing (provides radial support) and bearing 225 comprises a needle bearing (provides radial support but can withstand higher temperatures). The pinion coupling assembly 216 is housed within a motor mount 250 which is connected to the motor 106 and through which the motor shaft 248 extends. The motor mount 250 is connected to a gearbox mount 252 as shown in FIG. 9.

As shown in Figures 7-9, the gear box 404, in one embodiment, includes a gear member 304 and a reciprocator or push rod 310. Preferably, the gear member 304 has a shaft 246 extending therefrom, with the reciprocator 310 connected to the shaft 246. The gear box 404 can provide a mounting point for the gear member 304 and the reciprocator 310. The gear box 404 can limit the motion of the gear member 304 and the reciprocator to a particular direction or axis of rotation. The gear box 404 can be attached to the housing 101. In some embodiments, the gear box 404 is separated from the housing 101 by one or more flexible damping blocks.

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

In one embodiment, the actuation output or shaft 108 can be selectively locked and unlocked by the user by rotation. For example, the user can unlock the shaft 108 from rotation, rotate the actuation output 108 to a desired position relative to the housing 101, lock the actuation output 108 from rotation, and actuate the reciprocating therapy device 100. FIG. 8 shows the components that allow rotation of the rotating housing 44 along with the push rod assembly 108 and associated components. The button 515 has radially extending teeth 515a and is biased outwardly by a spring 519 that surrounds and seats on a spacer 518 (preferably made of foam). The spring 519 seats on damping members 520 and 517, which are preferably made of rubber to damp any vibrations of the spring 519. The push rod assembly also has a gearbox cover 525 and a damping ring 521. The button 515 is biased outwardly by a spring 519 to a position where the teeth 515a are engaged with the teeth 516a of a formed hoop 516 connected to the housing 101. Preferably, the hoop 516 has an inner plastic ring 516b and an outer plastic ring 516c with a rubber ring 516d sandwiched therebetween to help dampen vibrations and reduce noise. The button 515 is movable between a first position where the teeth 515a are engaged with the teeth 516a and a second position where the teeth 515a are not engaged with the teeth 516a. When the button 515 is in the first position, the rotating assembly 47 cannot rotate. When the button is pressed to the second position, the teeth 515a disengage from the teeth 516a, thereby allowing the entire rotating assembly 47 to rotate. The rotating housing 44 includes a body portion 62 disposed within the housing and an arm portion 64 extending out of the housing through the rotation space portion 60. The arm portion 64 rotates within a rotation space portion 60 formed in the housing 101. As shown in FIG. 2, in a preferred embodiment, the device 212 has a tambour door 217 that unfolds within the rotation space portion 60 as the rotating assembly moves from the position shown in FIG. 1 to the position shown in FIG. 2. The tambour door 217 covers the slot 214. As shown in FIG. 2, an arm cover 524 covers the arm portion 64 of the rotating housing 44.

As shown in FIG. 9, the gearbox housing 404 has a clearance slot 214 formed therein for the push rod assembly 108. The slot 214 is provided to allow the push rod assembly 108 to move freely and to allow the rotation housing 44 to articulate. The clearance slot 214 has a first end 214a and a second end 214b. As shown in FIG. 9, the push rod assembly 108 extends through the clearance slot 214. It will be appreciated that as the rotation housing 44 is rotated from the first position to the second position, the push rod assembly 108 moves within the clearance slot 214 from the first end to its second end.

8-10, in a preferred embodiment, the push rod assembly or output shaft 108 has two halves or rods with an adapter member 226 between them to also help reduce noise and vibration. The adapter member 226 isolates vibrations generated in the gearbox and prevents them from being transmitted down the shaft to the treatment structure. The adapter member 226 may have anti-rotation tabs to protect the push rod from torque applied by the user during use. The first rod portion 230 (push rod or reciprocator 310) of the output shaft 108 has an opening 232 at its end that receives a pivot pin 234. The connection between the first rod portion 230 and the adapter member 226 has a pin 234 and a bushing 227 with an elastomeric material to dampen vibration. The end of the first rod portion 230 with the opening 232 is received in a pocket 229 in the adapter member 226. The pin 234 extends through an opening in the sidewall of the adapter member 226, the bushing 227, and the opening 232 to secure the first rod portion 230 to the adapter member 226. The adapter member 226 has a protrusion 231 received in and extending from an opening 233 at the end of the second rod portion 236 to connect the adapter member 226 to the second rod portion 236. In another embodiment, the end of the second rod portion 236 can be received within the opening of the adapter member 226. In use, the dimensions of the top opening of the pocket 229 allow the first rod portion 230 to move sideways as the opening 232 pivots on the pin 234 to reciprocate. This translates to linear reciprocating motion of the second rod portion 236. The bushing 227 has at least some elastomeric material so that vibrations are dampened (and noise is reduced) as the push rod assembly 108 reciprocates.

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

As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the first rod portion 230 or push rod assembly 108 extends through the clearance slot 214. It will be understood that the term push rod assembly includes any of the embodiments described herein and may have a shaft with an adapter member that allows it to pivot between the two halves, or may have a single shaft without any pivoting.

As shown in Figures 9-10, in a preferred embodiment, the male connector 110 has alignment tabs 497 above each ball that mate with slots in the female opening. These tabs 497 aid in proper alignment with the treatment structure. See U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019/0017528, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

11-16 show an embodiment of an impact massage device similar to the impact massage device 212 described above, but without a rotating assembly. The device 208 shown in Figs. 11-14 is commercially referred to as G3. The device 210 shown in Figs. 15-16 is commercially referred to as LIV. As shown in Fig. 13, in a preferred embodiment, the switch 104 has switch electronics 575 associated with it. The switch electronics 575 has a printed circuit board (PCB) and other components such that the switch 104 can operate the motor 106, change the speed of the motor, and turn the device on and off, among other tasks. As shown in Fig. 13, in a preferred embodiment, the motor 106 is housed in the third handle portion 147, the battery 114 is housed in the second handle portion 145, and the switch electronics 575 is housed in the first handle portion 143. This configuration also applies to devices 210 and 212. FIG. 14 shows a cushion member 577 that surrounds the gearbox 404 and helps to dampen and reduce noise and vibration generated by components within the gearbox. The cushion member 577 is similar to the inner suspension ring 219 in the device 212. However, the cushion member 577 is thicker and does not need to rotate due to the elimination of the rotating housing in the devices 208 and 210. The cushion member 577 has notches or channels 579 therein to allow clearance for components such as the push rod assembly and pinion shaft.

17 to 35 show an embodiment with a percussive massage device with a force meter. Fig. 17 is a block diagram showing the interconnected components of a percussive therapy device with a force meter 400 (see also Fig. 33). In one embodiment, the impact therapy device with force meter 400 includes a microcontroller unit 701, a battery pack management unit 702, an NTC sensor 703, a power charging management unit 704, a wireless charging management unit 705, a wireless charging receiving system 706, a voltage management unit 707 (5V-3.3V voltage management in the drawing), a battery charging input 708 (20V-2.25A charging input in the drawing), a display 709 (power/battery/speed display in the drawing), a wireless control unit 710 (Bluetooth control in the drawing), an OLED (organic light emitting display) screen 711, an OLED screen control system 712, a motor 713, a motor drive system 714, a PWM speed setting unit 715, an overcurrent protection unit 716, and a power switch unit 717 (power on/off OLED screen SW in the drawing). In the embodiment shown in accordance with FIG. 17, each block in the block diagram is shown as a separate component. However, in alternative embodiments, certain components may be combined without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

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

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the storage device of the microcontroller unit 701 is configured to store machine-readable code for processing by the processor of the microcontroller unit 701. Various other configurations may exist, depending on whether the designer of the impact massage device with force meter 400 wishes to implement the machine-readable code in software, firmware, or both. According to one embodiment, the machine-readable code is stored in the storage device and configured to be executed by the processor of the microcontroller 701. In one embodiment, the machine-readable code is stored on a computer-readable medium.

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

The power charging management unit 704, in one embodiment, is implemented in firmware or software and configured for use in conjunction with the microcontroller unit 701. Similar to the battery pack management unit 702, the firmware or software of the power charging management unit 704 is stored in a storage device (not shown) and configured for retrievability by the microcontroller unit 701. The power charging management unit 704 may also be a combination of firmware, software, and hardware in another embodiment. In various aspects, the power charging management unit 704 is configured to charge the battery pack via a direct connection or via an external charger, such as when configured to operate with a rechargeable battery.

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

In one embodiment, the wireless charging receiving system 706 is coupled to the power charging management unit 704 and the display 709. The wireless charging receiving system 706 includes one or more of firmware, software, and hardware. In one embodiment, the wireless charging receiving system 706 is configured to receive information related to the battery capacity, information related to the charging meter, and other information related to wireless charging, and transmit the information to the power charging management unit 704. The wireless charging receiving system 706 preferably includes a wireless charging pad that is used to charge the impact therapy device with the force meter 400. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various wireless charging devices can be used to wirelessly charge the impact therapy device with the force meter 400. As an example, the Qi wireless charging standard and related devices can be used to wirelessly charge the impact therapy device with the force meter 400.

In one embodiment, the voltage management unit 707 is a DC voltage regulator that steps down 5 volts to 3.3 volts of power for use with the microcontroller unit 701. The voltage management unit 707 may also perform additional functions for managing the 3.3 volts of power for use with the microcontroller unit 701. In one embodiment, the voltage management unit 707 is implemented using a series of electronic components, such as, for example, using electronic components to implement a resistor divider. In another embodiment, the voltage management unit 707 is a stand-alone voltage regulator module and/or device designed to step down the voltage from 5 volts to 3.3 volts. Those skilled in the art will recognize the various methods and devices available for stepping down 5 volts to 3.3 volts.

In one embodiment, the battery charging input 708 is an interface into which a wire or cord can be inserted to charge the impact therapy device with the force meter 400. For example, a standardized barrel connector is the battery charging input 708. In another example, the battery charging input 708 is a USB connector. Other more specialized charging methods may require specific battery charging inputs not described above.

The display 709, in one embodiment, displays a series of LEDs that indicate the amount of force applied by the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. In an alternative embodiment, the display 709 displays a series of LEDs that indicate the current battery or battery pack charge of the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. In yet another embodiment, the display 709 displays a series of LEDs that indicate the current speed of the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. Those skilled in the art will recognize that while LEDs are identified in the above referenced embodiment, other embodiments that do not use LEDs are within the scope of this disclosure, such as, for example, liquid crystal displays, OLEDs, CRT displays, or plasma displays. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that in one embodiment, it may be advantageous to utilize a battery or battery pack to use a low power option to ensure long life of battery power. According to one embodiment, the display 709 is a 128x64 pixel OLED display.

The wireless control unit 710 is a wireless connection device that may be implemented in a wireless microcontroller unit. In one embodiment, the wireless control unit 710 is a Bluetooth transceiver module configured to couple to a remote device via Bluetooth. In one embodiment, the Bluetooth module is a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module configured to run in a broadcast mode. The wireless control unit 710 is coupled to the microcontroller unit 701. In one embodiment, the remote device is a smartphone with an embedded Bluetooth module. In an alternative embodiment, the remote device is a personal computer with Bluetooth connectivity. In other embodiments, other wireless connectivity standards besides the Bluetooth wireless standard may be utilized. It will be appreciated that Bluetooth connectivity or other wireless connectivity may be described as being implemented in a wireless connection device. The wireless connection device can be a separate module, or may be included in the MCU or other components of the device, or may be a separate chip. In summary, a percussive therapy device having a wireless connection device means that the percussive massage device can be wirelessly connected to another electronic device (e.g., a phone, a tablet, a computer, a computer, a voice-controlled speaker, a normal speaker, etc.). Those skilled in the art will recognize that a low-power wireless control module can be advantageous when the percussive massage device with the force meter 400 utilizes a battery or battery pack.

The OLED screen 711 and OLED screen control system 712 are configured, in one embodiment, to display substantially the same information as the display 709 described above. The OLED screen 711 is coupled to the OLED screen control system 511. The OLED screen control system 712 is coupled to the microcontroller unit 701, the OLED screen 711, and the power switch unit 717. In one embodiment, the display 709 and OLED screen 711 may be unnecessary and only one or the other may need to be utilized.

Motor 713, in one embodiment, is a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor. Motor 713 and motor drive system 714 are configured to vary speed (i.e., rotational motion), which in one embodiment can be converted to reciprocating motion. In other embodiments, motor 713 is a brushed DC motor, a brushed AC motor, or a brushless AC motor. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the choice of brushless or brushed motor, or DC or AC, will vary depending on the application and intended size, battery power, and use.

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

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

The power switch unit 717, in one embodiment, is configured to turn on and off the percussion massage device with the force meter 400. The power switch unit 717 is coupled to the OLED screen control system 712 and the microcontroller unit 701. In one embodiment, the power switch unit 717 is a switch 405.

Figure 18 shows a circuit diagram of the microcontroller unit 701 with pin outputs. In this embodiment, the STM32F030K6 series of microcontroller units is used. The circuit diagram shows that the VDD input of the microcontroller unit 701 is powered at +3.3 volts. Input PA3 is labeled "Motor VOL" and is the voltage of the motor 713. Input PA2 is labeled "bt_v" and is the voltage of the battery or battery pack. The microcontroller unit is configured to receive an analog voltage at inputs PA2 and PA3 and convert the analog voltage to a digital voltage using an analog-to-digital converter in the microcontroller. In this embodiment, the analog-to-digital converter is a 12-bit ADC. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other microcontrollers may utilize voltage sensing and analog-to-digital converters to perform similar functions. In yet other embodiments, an analog-to-digital converter module separate from the microcontroller may be utilized.

Figure 19 shows a circuit diagram used for battery voltage detection. In this embodiment, +BT, or positive battery terminal 602, is coupled to a circuit consisting of P-channel MOSFET 604, N-channel MOSFET 608, 0.1 μF capacitor 610, 100 kΩ resistors 612, 614, 68 kΩ resistor 616, 1 kΩ resistors 618, 620, and 10 kΩ resistors 622, 624. This circuit is configured to provide the input analog voltage of the battery or battery pack, i.e. bt_v, to the microcontroller unit 701 of Figure 18. In other embodiments, the battery or battery pack voltage can be achieved using a voltage reader coupled to the terminals of the battery or battery pack.

20 shows a circuit diagram for detecting and measuring the voltage of the motor 713 of the percussion massage device. In this embodiment, a voltage sensing resistor 626 is coupled in parallel with the microcontroller unit 701 and coupled to the motor 713. In one embodiment, the voltage sensing resistor has a value of 0.0025 W. The circuit shown in FIG. 20 is configured to provide a motor voltage input to the microcontroller unit 701 of FIG. 17. In one embodiment, the input analog voltage is amplified. In another embodiment, the voltage of the motor 713 is measured or sensed using a separate set of electronic components or a stand-alone device and input to the microprocessor for use in a method of indicating force on the percussion massage device.

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

In step 804, a lookup table correlating voltage V to force amplitude F is generated. In one embodiment, the lookup table is generated using method 900 for generating a lookup table correlating voltage to force. For example, the force amplitude F may be expressed in pounds of force. In an alternative embodiment, the force amplitude F may be expressed in newtons of force.

In step 806, the force amplitude F corresponding to the voltage amplitude V is displayed on the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. In one embodiment, a series of LED lights can be utilized to display the varying amount of force while the force is being applied by the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. Thus, as the amount of force amplitude F increases, more LEDs on the series of LED lights are illuminated. Preferably, the series of LED lights is made up of 12 LED lights.

22 is a flow chart illustrating a method 900 for generating a look-up table correlating voltage with force. In step 902, a maximum force amplitude _FMAX is determined. The amplitude of _FMAX may be determined by assessing the maximum desired force to be applied using the percussion massage device with the force meter 400. As an example, _FMAX is 27 kg (60 lbs) of force.

The maximum amplitude of the voltage V _MAX is determined in step 904. The amplitude of V _MAX may be determined by evaluating the maximum theoretical voltage change possible by the percussion massage device with the force meter 400. As an example, V _MAX is 1.8 volts.

_FMAX is divided into a number of equal increments at step 906. Using the above example of step 902, a force of 60 pounds is divided into 60 1 pound increments.

In step 908, _VMAX is divided into the same amount of increments as determined above in step 906. Thus, using the above example of step 904, 1.8 volts would be divided into 60 0.03 volt increments.

In step 910, a look-up table (LUT) is generated that correlates force increments in pounds with voltage increments. This ensures a linear relationship between force and voltage. FIG. 23 is a graph plotting a LUT for use by the force detection method of FIG. 21, generated using the specific example identified in FIG. 22. The graph shows the forces calculated using method 900.

A problem may arise where the assumption of the theoretical maximum voltage in step 904 of method 900 is inaccurate. Also, as the percussive massage device with force meter 400 is used, the maximum available voltage may degrade over time. In other words, the voltage of the battery or battery pack may decrease.

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

In step 1004, _VMAX is set to the actual battery voltage swing BV output. As an example, it may decrease from 1.8 volts to 1.74 volts, a decrease of 0.6 volts. In step 1006, the LUT linear correlation is adjusted to reflect the lower _VMAX . Figure 25 is a graph plotting the LUT calculated by method 900 against the LUT calibrated using method 1000. The LUT resulting from method 1000 represents the calibrated force, not the calculated force.

26 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1100 for calibrating the LUT. Method 1100 may be performed after method 900 or may be performed completely separate from method 900. In step 1102, the battery pack voltage BV is measured. In one embodiment, this measurement is performed without applying force from the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. In one embodiment, the battery pack voltage BV is measured using an external voltmeter. In another embodiment, the battery pack and/or the microcontroller unit 701 incorporate a solution for directly measuring the battery pack voltage BV.

In step 1104, a display on the percussive massage device, which includes a force meter 400 indicating the force amplitude F, is read to determine the force amplitude F that corresponds to the measured battery pack voltage BV.

In step 1106, a force meter is used to measure the actual force being applied. In one embodiment, the force meter is a push/pull force meter. Direct force measurement allows for calibration of the LUT by comparing the displayed force amplitude F to the actual force measured. In step 1108, the LUT is updated with the corrected force corresponding to the measured battery pack voltage BV. After step 1108, steps 1102-1106 are repeated for each successive voltage increment. In an embodiment depicted in accordance with method 900, steps 1102-1106 are repeated for each 0.03 volt increment. FIG. 27 is a graph plotting the LUT calculated by method 1100 after all three volt increments have been updated.

28 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1200 of detecting a force applied by an impact massage device according to a preferred embodiment. In step 1202, a current amplitude C of the battery pack is obtained. In one embodiment, the current amplitude C is input to the microcontroller unit 701. In step 1204, a voltage amplitude BV of the battery pack is obtained. In one embodiment, the voltage amplitude BV is input to the microcontroller unit 701. In step 1206, the power is calculated using the product of C and BV. In one embodiment, the microcontroller unit 701 is configured to calculate the power by multiplying C and BV. In step 1208, a lookup table is generated that correlates the power amplitude P to the force amplitude F. In one embodiment, the lookup table is generated using the method 1300 for generating a lookup table correlating power to force. For example, the power amplitude P can be expressed in units of watts. In alternative embodiments, the force amplitude F can be expressed in units of pounds of force or units of newtons of force.

In step 1210, the force amplitude F corresponding to the power amplitude P is displayed on the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. In one embodiment, a series of LED lights can be utilized to display the varying amount of force while the force is being applied by the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. Thus, as the amount of force amplitude F increases, more LEDs on the series of LED lights are illuminated. Preferably, the series of LED lights consists of 12 LED lights.

29 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1300 for generating a lookup table correlating power to force. In step 1302, the maximum power amplitude P _MAX is determined. However, if the total active power can be calculated, then a theoretical maximum power amplitude is not a reasonable assumption. Equation 1 can be utilized to determine the total maximum active power (EP _MAX ).

ここで、ＥＰ、ＥＰ_BATTERY、ＥＰ_PCBA、及びＥＰ_MOTORの合計は全て割合で表され、ＰＣＢＡはプリント基板アセンブリである。 Equation 2 can be utilized to calculate the total EP, which is then input into equation 1 above.

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

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

In this embodiment, _PMAX is calculated by multiplying the maximum voltage _VMAX and the maximum amperage _CMAX of the battery pack, as shown in Equation 3. _PMAX is then input into Equation 1.

In this embodiment, V _MAX is 16.8 Volts and C _MAX is 20 Amps. Therefore, P _MAX is 336 Watts.

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

In step 1304, a minimum amount of power _PMIN is determined. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the power with no force applied (i.e., no load) will not be zero. Thus, a _PMIN of 12 watts is assumed. Those skilled in the art will also understand that this value is equivalent to the no-load rated power, which may be derived from _VMAX and _CMIN .

In step 1306, the maximum force amplitude F _MAX is determined. The amplitude of F _MAX may be determined by assessing the maximum desired force to be applied using the percussion massage device with the force meter 400. As an example, F _MAX is 27 kg (60 pounds) of force.

In step 1308, the total EP _MAX is divided into a number of equal increments. According to one embodiment, the total EP _MAX is divided in increments of 3 watts per 1 pound of force, starting with P _MIN (12 watts). If F _MAX is 60 pounds of force, one skilled in the art will recognize that the desired total force output of the percussion massage device with force meter 400, within the calculated total EP _MAX , is that 60 pounds of force correlates to 189 watts.

In step 1310, a LUT is generated that correlates force increments in pounds to power increments in watts. This necessarily creates a linear relationship between force and voltage. FIG. 30 is a plot of a LUT for use in the force sensing method of FIG. 28, generated using the specific example identified in FIG. 25. The graph shows the forces calculated using method 1200.

As with method 900, problems may arise where the measured voltage of the battery pack in step 1204 of method 1200 is inaccurate. Also, as the percussive massage device with force meter 400 is used, the maximum available voltage may degrade over time. In other words, the voltage of the battery or battery pack may decrease.

31 is a flow chart illustrating a method 1400 for calibrating the LUT. Method 1400 may be performed after method 900 or method 1200, or may be performed entirely separate from method 900 or method 1200. At step 1402, a current amplitude C of the battery pack is obtained. In one embodiment, the current amplitude C is input to the microcontroller unit 701.

In step 1404, the battery pack voltage BV is measured. In one embodiment, this measurement is performed without applying force from the percussive massage device with the force meter 400. In one embodiment, the battery pack voltage BV is measured using an external voltmeter. In another embodiment, the battery pack and/or the microcontroller unit 701 incorporate a solution to directly measure the battery pack voltage BV. In step 1406, the power is calculated using the product of C and BV. In one embodiment, the microcontroller unit 701 is configured to calculate the power by multiplying C and BV.

In step 1408, a display on the impact massage device with a force meter 400 displaying the force amplitude F is read to determine the force amplitude F corresponding to the calculated power. In step 1410, the force meter is used to measure the actual force being applied. According to one embodiment, the force meter is a push/pull force meter. Direct measurement of the force allows for calibration of the LUT by comparing the displayed force amplitude F to the measured actual force. In step 1412, the LUT is updated with a corrected force corresponding to the measured power. After step 1412, steps 1402-1410 are repeated for each power or force increment. In an embodiment depicted according to method 900, steps 1402-1410 are repeated for each 3 watt increment. FIG. 32 is a graph plotting the LUT calculated by method 1400 after all 3 watt increments have been updated.

FIGS. 33-35 show an exemplary percussive massage device 400 embodying the features disclosed herein, particularly FIGS. 17-48 (or FIGS. 1-16). In general, the percussive massage device 400 has a housing 101, a power source or battery pack 114, a motor 406 disposed within the housing 101, and a switch 405 for activating the motor 406. The electronics (see printed circuit board 408 in FIG. 34) have a controller configured to obtain the motor voltage, generate a look-up table correlating the voltage to the force applied by the percussive massage device, and use the look-up table to display a force amplitude corresponding to the obtained voltage.

36-43A show further views of the percussive massage device 400. FIGS. 36 and 37 are similar to FIGS. 1 and 1A and show that the percussive massage device 400 has a similar triangular shape with a first handle portion 143, a second handle portion 145 and a third handle portion 147 that cooperate to form a handle opening 149. Please refer to at least the description of FIGS. 1-5 for the description of other reference numbers and features shown in FIGS. 36-40. All of the features and components described above with respect to any percussive therapy or massage device may be included in the percussive massage device 400.

As shown in Figures 41-43, in a preferred embodiment, the brushless motor 406 is located within the head portion 12. The impact massage device 400 may have a rotatable arm that is part of the rotating housing 44. The motor 406 is located within the rotating housing 44 that is housed with the head portion 12 of the housing 101. In another embodiment, the rotating function may be omitted.

In a preferred embodiment, the device has a push rod or shaft 14 that is directly connected to a shaft 16 that is rotated by a motor 406 and a motor shaft 21 extending therefrom. The shaft 16 can be part of a counterweight assembly 17 that has a counterweight 19. In a preferred embodiment, the push rod 14 is L-shaped or has an arc shape, as shown in Figures 42A-42B. Preferably, the point where the push rod 14 is connected to the shaft 16 is offset from the reciprocating path that the distal end 18 of the push rod 14 (and massage attachment 628) travels. This function is provided by the arc or L-shape. It should be understood that the push rod 14 is designed so that the motor can be located at or near the center of the device, since it can transmit forces at least partially obliquely or in an arc along its shape, rather than vertically. Otherwise, a large protrusion would be necessary to keep the shaft centered with the motor offset from it (and located within the protrusion). The arc also allows the push rod 14 to have a tight clearance with the motor, as shown in FIGS. 42A and 42B, allowing the outer housing to be smaller than similar prior art devices, thus giving the device 400 a lower profile. FIG. 42A shows the push rod 14 at the bottom dead center of its travel, and FIG. 42B shows the push rod 14 at the top dead center of its travel. Preferably, one or more bearings 20 are included at the proximal end of the push rod 14, which is connected to the motor, to counteract diagonal forces and prevent the push rod 14 from moving and touching the motor 406. The bearing 20 is received on the shaft 16, and the threaded fastener 26 is received in a coaxial opening 16a in the shaft 16. The proximal end of the push rod 14 is received on the bearing 20. All of these components are shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 33, in a preferred embodiment, the device 400 has a touch screen 409 (also referred to herein as touch screen 1582 in connection with the method steps) and buttons for operating the device (e.g., stop, start, activate, change speed, amplitude, etc.). The touch screen 409 may have other functions as well. The device 400 may also have a thumb wheel or rolling button located near the touch screen on/off button to allow the user to scroll or navigate through the touch screen 409 of various functions to operate the device. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 33, the device 400 has a touch screen 409, a center button 403 for turning the device on and off, and a ring/rocker button 447 that provides the ability to scroll left/right (e.g., for preset treatments described herein) and up/down (e.g., to control speed or frequency). The screen may be a non-touch screen or may only be used for display.

In another preferred embodiment, any of the devices taught herein can have the ability to vary the amplitude or stroke, thus providing longer or shorter strokes depending on the application or needs of the user. For example, the stroke can vary or be varied between about 8 mm and about 16 mm. In another embodiment, the stroke can vary up to 25 mm or more. Amplitude/stroke variability can also be part of the routines, presets or protocols described herein. For example, the device can have a mechanical switch that allows the eccentricity of the connector to be modified (e.g., between 4 mm and 8 mm). This mechanism can have a push button and a slider. The pin structure has a spring that can return the pin structure to a locked position.

As with the impact massage devices 208, 210, 212 described above, in a preferred embodiment, the device 400 has several damping components made of elastomers or the like and that dampen vibrations to keep the device relatively quiet. For example, as shown in FIG. 43, the device 400 has a damping ring 426 (similar to the inner suspension ring 219) that surrounds the rotating housing 44 (comprising the first rotating housing half 44a and the second rotating housing half 44b) and helps to dampen the sound waves of vibrations between the rotating housing and the outer housing 101.

As shown in Figs. 43 and 43A, the device 400 also preferably includes a motor mount 24 that secures the motor 406 in a predetermined position and is secured to the housing 101. The motor 406 has a receiving member 28 with three projections 30 (which may have a number between one and ten) that are received in projection openings 32 formed in the motor mount 24 (first wall 38). A flange 34 extending from the motor mount 24 helps to maintain the projections 30 in the predetermined position. The motor 406 is preferably secured to the motor mount 24 via threaded fasteners or the like. The motor shaft 21 extends within the motor mount interior 36 formed between the first and second walls 38 and a side portion 40 extending partially therearound. The counterweight assembly 17, the proximal end of the push rod 14, and associated components for converting the rotation of the motor shaft 21 into reciprocating motion are disposed within the motor mount interior 36. The push rod 14 extends downward from the interior of the motor mount and through the push rod opening 42 in the side 40. In a preferred embodiment, the motor mount 24 is directly connected to the housing 101 via a fastener 46 secured to a mounting member 48 in the housing (see FIG. 43A). It will be understood that the term push rod assembly as used herein includes any of the components or combinations thereof described herein, such as the push rod 14, output shaft 108, reciprocator 310, second rod portion 236, etc., that extend from the rotating motor shaft 21, shaft 246, etc., provide reciprocating motion and have an attachment on its distal end. The push rod assembly further has a male connector 110 (and any associated components) or any other connector at the end of the reciprocating component that allows for the connection of an attachment for massage or therapy to be used.

Preferably, the device is capable of being wirelessly charged. Figure 34 shows the wireless charging receiver 22 located in the third handle portion 147. In another embodiment, the wireless charging receiver 22 can be located in either the first handle portion 143 or the second handle portion 145 or in the head portion 12.

In a preferred embodiment, the device 400 is associated with and can be operated by an app or software running on a mobile device such as a phone, watch or tablet (or any computer). The app can connect to the device 400 via Bluetooth or other wireless connection protocols. The app can have any or all of the following functions: Additionally, any of the functions described herein can be added directly on the device to the touch screen/scroll wheel or button(s) functions. If the user walks or stands too far away from the device, the device will not work or activate. The device can be turned on and off using the app as well as the touch screen or buttons on the device. The app can control a variable speed (e.g., any speed between 1750 RPM and 3000 RPM). A timer can be implemented so that the device will stop after a predefined time has elapsed.

In a preferred embodiment, the device has different treatment protocols or routines associated therewith, such as through an app or touch screen and other function buttons. During the routine, the device can change or make changes to different aspects or outputs of the device based on time, speed (frequency), amplitude (stroke), arm position, force, temperature, grip (i.e., which handle is gripped), attachment (e.g., cone, ball, damper, etc.), and body. The device can also prompt the user (via the app, touch screen, haptic feedback, or audibly via speaker) to make some of these changes at certain points throughout the routine, such as changing arm position, grip, attachment, and body. Those skilled in the art will understand that depending on the particular design of the device, one or more of these outputs may be applicable, while in other devices all of the options described may be applicable.

Once a protocol is selected to begin, the device runs through a pre-programmed routine. For example, the device can operate at a first RPM for a first period of time, then at a second RPM for a second period of time, and/or at a first amplitude for a first period of time, then at a second amplitude for a second period of time. The routine can also include prompts (e.g., haptic feedback) to inform the user that they are moving to a new body part. These routines or treatments can relate to recovery, increased blood flow, performance, etc., each of which can have a pre-programmed routine or protocol. These routines can also help facilitate certain activities, such as sleep, interval training, stairs, post-run, post-workout, recovery, health, post-core exercises, high intensity (plyometric) workouts, among others. These routines may also be useful in providing relief and recovery from ailments such as plantar fasciitis, "text neck", muscle spasms, jet lag, sciatica, carpal tunnel, knots, and shin splints, among others. These routines may also prompt or instruct the user to switch the position of the attachment (e.g., attachment 628 shown in FIG. 40) or the arm or rotating housing. Prompts may include sounds, haptic feedback (e.g., vibration of the device or mobile device), written instructions, or visual representations such as graphics or pictures on the app or touch screen. For example, the app may instruct the user to start with the ball attachment with the arm in position 2. The user then hits start and the device operates at a first frequency for a predefined period of time. The app or device then prompts the user to begin the next step in the routine, instructing the user to change to the cone attachment and place the arm in position 1 (see, for example, arm positions in FIG. 38). The arm can have any number of positions, for example positions 1-10 or positions 1-3 or positions 1-2. FIGS. 38-40 show the arm in three different positions. The user hits start again and the device operates at a second frequency for a predefined time. The protocol can be divided into multiple steps, where in each step the changed output is predefined or specified.

In a preferred embodiment, the device 400 includes a housing 101, a power source 114, a motor 406 disposed within the housing 101, a switch 405 (which may be a touch screen 409, a rocker button 447, a button 403, or any other switch or button) for activating the motor 406, and a routine controller 630. The device 400 is configured to mate with an attachment 628. The attachment may be, for example, the attachment 628 shown in FIG. 38. The attachment is secured to the male connector 110 such that the shaft or push rod assembly 108 reciprocates the attachment according to a particular amplitude. For example, this amplitude is depicted in FIGS. 42A and 42B, where FIG. 42A shows the attachment in a maximum extension position and FIG. 42B shows the attachment in a minimum extension position. The distance between the maximum extension position and the minimum extension position may define the amplitude in one embodiment.

The attachment 628 can be a variety of attachments configured to provide therapeutic relief to specific areas of the body. For example, the attachment 628 can be a standard ball (see U.S. Patent Application No. 29/677,157, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) and can be an attachment targeted for general use on both large and small muscle groups. The attachment 628 can be a cone-shaped attachment for pinpoint muscle treatment, pressure points, and small muscle areas such as the hands and feet (see U.S. Patent Application No. 849,261, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The attachment 628 can also be a damper attachment (see U.S. Patent Application No. 29/676,670, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) used for soft or bony areas, but also for general use. The attachment 628 can be a wedge attachment for use on the scapula and iliotibial band (see U.S. Patent D845,500, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) used in a "scraping" and "flushing" motion to help flush lactic acid from the muscles. The attachment 628 can be a large ball for large muscle groups such as the hips and quadriceps (see U.S. Patent Application No. 29/677,016, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The attachment 628 can be a thumb attachment for use on pressure points and the lower back (see U.S. Patent Application No. D850,639, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). The attachment 628 can be a Super Soft™ attachment (see U.S. Patent Application No. 29/726,305), designed to provide therapeutic relief to sensitive areas including bones. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the attachments described herein are non-limiting and that other configurations of attachments, including various materials and shapes, may be utilized in accordance with the present embodiments. Attachments that are spherical, forked, flat, or have other shapes are all within the scope of the present invention.

The routine controller 630 is configured to execute routines in association with one or more specific protocols. The routine controller 630 may be, for example, the microcontroller unit 701 depicted in FIG. 17. The routine controller 630 may also be a separate and independent microcontroller from the microcontroller 701. The routine controller may take different steps of a specific protocol designed to target specific muscle groups and provide a specific therapeutic effect, as described herein.

44 is a table showing an example of a protocol according to a preferred embodiment. Protocol 1 is divided into four steps, each of which represents a specific time, speed, amplitude, attachment, force, temperature, and grip. In step 1, the device 400 is operated for 30 seconds at a speed of 1550 RPM. Routine controller 630 can be utilized to turn on the impact massage device and implement a speed of 1550 RPM for the attachment 628. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the speed of the attachment 628 is directly proportional to the speed of the motor 406. The amplitude of the impact massage device is set to be 2 according to protocol 1. This can be translated to a specific distance that the attachment 628 will travel during use, as described above. Step 1 also specifies the damper attachment attached to the device 400, a force of "1" applied by the device 400, and a temperature of 21 degrees Celsius applied to the attachment.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the force to be applied by device 400 may depend on the pressure applied by the user in pressing the attachment against the person's body part. As described more fully herein, the force to be applied by device 400 may be a target force. In embodiments in which the user provides pressure to apply a particular force to the person's body part, routine controller 630 may adjust the output of device 400 to ensure that the force actually applied by the attachment is the target force. Also, routine controller 630 may be configured to provide feedback to the user to increase or decrease the pressure on the person's body part to achieve the target force. Each of these embodiments is applicable to each of the steps of a given protocol, having steps 2-4 below, as well as steps 1-4 of the protocol shown in FIG. 45.

Step 1 also provides for operating the device 400 using grip 1. Grip 1 can be, for example, the grip shown in the first handle portion 143 depicted in FIG. 38, otherwise referred to as the "normal" or "standard" grip. Grip 2 can be, for example, the grip shown in the third handle portion 147 depicted in FIG. 39, otherwise referred to as the "reverse" grip. An "inverse" grip can also be used in the third handle portion 147 (not shown). Grip 3 can be, for example, the grip shown in the second handle portion 145 depicted in FIG. 40, otherwise referred to as the "basic" grip.

In step 2, protocol 1 specifies that device 400 is to be operated at 2100 RPM for 15 seconds with amplitude "3", force "3", and temperature of 26°C. Step 2 specifies that small ball attachment 628 is to be used and that device 400 is to be operated with gripper 1. Thus, step 2 specifies that the damper attachment of step 1 is to be replaced with the small ball attachment, but the same gripper is to be used.

In step 3, protocol 1 specifies that device 400 is to be operated at 2200 RPM for 30 seconds with amplitude "1", force "3", and temperature of 29°C. Step 3 specifies that damper attachment 628 is to be used and that device 400 is to be operated using gripper 1. Thus, step 3 requires that the small ball attachment of step 2 be replaced with a damper attachment, but specifies that the same gripper is to be used.

In step 4, protocol 1 specifies that device 400 is operated at 2400 RPM for 45 seconds with amplitude "4", force "2" and temperature of 32°C. Step 3 specifies the use of the large ball attachment and the use of gripper 1 to operate device 400. Thus, step 3 specifies that the damper attachment of step 2 is to be replaced with the large ball attachment, but the same gripper is to be used. Of course, it will be understood that protocol 1 is provided to the reader as an example of the many different outputs that may be provided or modified during the myriad of treatment protocols that may be developed. Furthermore, it will be understood that any one or more of the outputs may be part of a protocol or routine, and that any of the multiple outputs described herein may be omitted. For example, a protocol may include only time and velocity, or only time velocity and force, or only time, velocity and gripper, or any other combination of the multiple outputs described herein.

Figure 45 is a table showing an example of a "Shin Splints" protocol according to a preferred embodiment. Similar to Protocol 1, the Shin Splints protocol is divided into four steps, each of which indicates a specific time, speed, amplitude, attachment, force, temperature, gripper, and also specifies a specific arm position and body part for the attachment. In Step 1, the device 400 is operated at a speed of 1500 RPM, amplitude of "1", force of "2", and temperature of 21°C for one minute. Step 1 specifies that the damper attachment is used and the device 400 is operated with gripper 2 ("reverse") on the right shin.

Also, step 1 identifies the arm positions 632, 634, 636 to be used as arm position 1. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of arm positions (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.) are predefined arm positions intended to be used during a particular protocol. The portion of the housing to which the attachment 628 is attached is one of several factors in determining the optimal arm position. However, the arm position can be determined by the user and need not otherwise implement the protocol. As shown in FIG. 39, arm position 632 can utilize a "standard" grip to apply to a particular part of the body. As shown in FIG. 39, arm position 634 can utilize a "reverse" grip to apply to a particular part of the body. As shown in FIG. 40, arm position 636 can utilize a "basic" grip to apply to a particular part of the body. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the arm positions 632, 634, 636 in combination with particular grips 143, 145, 147 can vary depending on the application. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that setting the arm position of device 400 will depend on the particular device. For example, certain devices may allow the user to adjust the position of the arm, whereas other devices may not. For those that do not, this step does not apply. In other embodiments, this step may be performed during the execution of a particular protocol step.

In step 2, the shin splints protocol prescribes operating the device 400 at 1500 RPM for 1 minute with amplitude "1", force "2" and temperature of 21°C. Step 2 prescribes using the damper attachment and manipulating the device 400 to the left shin with gripper 2 ("reverse") at arm position 1. Thus, step 2 uses the same attachment, gripper and arm positions as step 1, but is applied to the other shin.

In step 3, the shin splints protocol specifies that the device 400 is to be operated at 2000 RPM for 1 minute, with amplitude "3", force "3", and temperature 24°C. Step 2 specifies that the damper attachment is to be used and that the device 400 is to be operated on the right calf with arm position 1 and grip 3 ("basic"). Thus, step 3 specifies that the user must change grip from the "reverse" grip to the "basic" grip, but use the same attachment and arm position.

In step 4, the shin splints protocol prescribes operating the device 400 at 2000 RPM for 1 minute with amplitude "3", force "3" and temperature 24°C. In step 2, the protocol prescribes using the damper attachment and manipulating the device 400 to the left calf with gripper 3 ("basic") in arm position 1. Thus, step 2 uses the same attachment, gripper and arm positions as step 1, but is applied to the other calf.

Figure 46 is a series of flow charts (Figures 46A, 46B, 46C) illustrating a method 1500 for performing a routine for an impact massage device.

FIG. 46A is a flow chart showing an exemplary protocol initiation. At step 1502, Protocol 1 is initiated. For example, Protocol 1 may be Protocol 1 depicted in FIG. 44 or the "Thin Splints" protocol depicted in FIG. 45. One skilled in the art will appreciate that Protocol 1 depicted in FIG. 44 does not include all of the outputs identified in the Thin Splints protocol depicted in FIG. 45, and therefore not all steps of method 1500 apply to Protocol 1 depicted in FIG. 44.

In step 1504, the user is prompted to set the arm position to a particular arm position 632, 634, 636. The user may be a person using the device 400 on their own body or on another person's body. The arm position 632, 634, 636 specified in the shin splints protocol is, for example, arm position 1.

In step 1506, the user is prompted to use a particular grip or handle portion 143, 145, 147 on the device 400. The grip portion specified in the shin splints protocol is, for example, the third handle portion 147. As described herein, the grip portion may vary depending on the particular protocol or step.

In step 1508, the user is prompted to attach a particular attachment to the device 400. As described herein, the attachment may vary depending on the particular protocol or step.

In step 1510, the method determines whether the arm positions 632, 634, 636 and grip positions 143, 145, 147 are properly configured and whether the attachments 628 are attached. Step 1510 may involve prompting the user via haptic feedback, an application interface, or a touch screen (among other types of prompts) requesting that the user proceed when the proper arm positions, grips, and attachments are ready. In other embodiments, the device 400 may sense that the arm positions and grips are proper and that the attachments are attached before automatically proceeding. In one embodiment, step 1510 is repeated until the arm positions, grips, and attachments are ready.

FIG. 46B is a flow chart showing an exemplary step 1 of the protocol, continuing method 1500 where FIG. 46A remains off.

In step 1512, step 1 of the protocol is started. Step 1 is, for example, step 1 shown in Figures 44 and 45.

In step 1514, the method 1500 applies a particular duration (Ti), attachment speed, attachment amplitude, attachment force, and attachment temperature for which the device 400 is actuated. According to one embodiment, one or more of these outputs of the device 400 are applied. These outputs may be applied by the routine controller 630. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the implementation of the device 400 on a user's body part does not require the application of some of these outputs. For example, the duration, speed, amplitude, and temperature are not necessarily dependent on the user applying pressure to the body part. On the other hand, the force applied by the attachment 628 may require the user to apply pressure to the body part to reach the target force (or target force range). Furthermore, the temperature may vary depending on whether the attachment 628 is applied to the body part and whether it is applied to the body part to which it is applied. Thus, during application of the attachment 628, it may be necessary to adjust the temperature to reach the desired temperature predetermined by the protocol. In another embodiment, the temperature can be adjusted by the user.

After period _T1 , the user may be prompted to change the attachment 628, arm positions 632, 634, 636, and/or grip positions 143, 145, 147. These outputs may need to be implemented prior to the start of step 2 of the protocol. In the shin splints protocol depicted in FIG. 45, the attachment 628, arm positions 632, 634, 636, and grip positions 143, 145, 147 remain the same. In step 1516, after period _T1 , the user is prompted to set the arm positions to specific arm positions 632, 634, 636. The user may be a person using the device 400 on their own body or on the body of another person.

In step 1518, the user is prompted to use a particular gripper 143, 145, 147 on the device 400. As described herein, the gripper may vary depending on the particular protocol or step.

In step 1520, the user is prompted to attach a particular attachment 628 to the device 400. As described herein, the attachment 628 may vary depending on the particular protocol or step.

In step 1522, the method determines whether arm positions 632, 634, 636 and grip positions 143, 145, 147 are properly configured and whether attachments 628 are attached. This step and all other similar steps are optional. Step 1510 may involve a prompt to the user via haptic feedback, application interface, or touch screen (among other types of prompts) inviting the user to move to the next step in the routine and/or requesting to proceed when the proper arm positions, grips, and attachments are ready. In other embodiments, the device 400 may sense that the arm positions and grips are proper and that attachments are attached before automatically proceeding. In an embodiment, step 1522 is repeated until the arm positions, grips, and attachments are ready.

FIG. 46C is a flow chart showing an exemplary step 2 of the protocol, continuing method 1500 where FIG. 46B left off.

In step 1524, step 2 of the protocol is initiated. Step 2 is, for example, step 2 shown in Figures 44 and 45.

In step 1526, the method 1500 applies a specific duration ( _T2 ), attachment speed, attachment amplitude, attachment force, and attachment temperature for which the device 400 is actuated. According to one embodiment, one or more of these outputs of the device 400 are applied. These outputs may be applied by the routine controller 630. One skilled in the art will appreciate that implementation of the device 400 on a user's body part does not require the application of some of these outputs. For example, the duration, speed, amplitude, and temperature are not necessarily dependent on the user applying pressure to the body part. On the other hand, the force applied by the attachment 628 may require the user to apply pressure to the body part to reach a target force. Furthermore, the temperature may vary depending on whether the attachment 628 is applied to the body part and to which it is applied. Thus, during application of the attachment 628, the temperature may need to be adjusted to reach a desired temperature predefined by the protocol. In another embodiment, the temperature may be adjusted by the user.

After a period _T2 , the user may be prompted to change the attachment 628, arm positions 632, 634, 636, and/or grip positions 143, 145, 147. These outputs may need to be implemented prior to the start of step 3 of the protocol. In the shin splints protocol depicted in FIG. 45, the attachment 628 and arm positions 632, 634, 636 remain the same, but the grips 143, 145, 147 have been adjusted to basic grips. In step 1528, after a period _T2 , the user is prompted to set the arm positions to specific arm positions 632, 634, 636. The user may be a person using the device 400 on their own body or on the body of another person.

Thus, steps 1528-1534 perform substantially the same steps as steps 1516-1522. After step 1534, steps 3-4 begin in substantially the same manner as steps 1-2. For example, steps 3 and 4 may be steps 3 and 4 of protocol 1 depicted in FIG. 44 or steps 3 and 4 of the shin splints protocol depicted in FIG. 45. Additionally, step 1534 may be omitted in devices where none of the grippers, arm positions or attachments are sensed by the device. In this embodiment, the protocol provided simply transitions from step 1 to step 2, prompting the user to make the change (whether or not the user actually makes the change).

As an alternative to FIG. 46C, FIG. 46D is a flow chart illustrating alternative step 2 of the protocol, in which force meter adjustment is implemented.

Steps 1536 to 1538 are performed in substantially the same manner as steps 1524 to 1526 in step 2 above.

In step 1540, the force applied by the attachment 628 is monitored. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 46D, the method 1500 utilizes a force meter 400 to monitor the actual force being applied by the user.

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

In step 1546, the user is prompted to increase or decrease the force being applied to the body part according to a particular protocol during _T2 . FIG. 48 illustrates a touch screen 1582 according to an exemplary embodiment of a force display. A force display 1590 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of step 1546. The force display 1590 shows a series of force measurements over the course of the "Right Biceps" step of the protocol. A force display prompt 1592 is used to display a message to the user, such as "Full Pressure: Good Job," if the force applied by the attachment 628 matches or corresponds to a target force predetermined by the protocol. In this embodiment, the force display prompt 1592 may say, "Increase Pressure," or the like, if the measured force applied by the attachment 628 is lower than the target force predetermined by the protocol. As a result, if the measured force applied by the attachment 628 is higher than the target force predetermined by the protocol, the force display prompt 1592 may say, "Reduce Pressure," or the like. The user can then adjust the pressure they are exerting on the body part more or less according to the force display prompts 1592 so that the measured force is equal or substantially equal to the target force.

After a period _T2 , the user may be prompted to change the attachment 628, arm positions 632, 634, 636, and/or grip positions 143, 145, 147. These outputs may need to be implemented prior to the start of step ₃ of the protocol. In the shin splints protocol depicted in FIG. 45, the attachment 628 and arm positions 632, 634, 636 remain the same, but the grips 143, 145, 147 have been adjusted to basic grips. In step 1528, after a period T2, the user is prompted to set the arm positions to specific arm positions 632, 634, 636. The user may be a person using the device 400 on their own body or on another person's body.

Thus, steps 1548-1552 are performed in substantially the same manner as steps 1516-1522. After step 1534, steps 3-4 are initiated in substantially the same manner as steps 1-2. For example, steps 3 and 4 may be steps 3 and 4 of protocol 1 depicted in FIG. 44 or the thin splint protocol depicted in FIG. 45.

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

The next portion of the interface 1584 shows the step fields 1558-1568 of the protocol that are displayed to the user. In this embodiment, the step fields identify the name and duration of the step. For example, the step field 1558 is entitled "Right Biceps" (where treatment is to be provided) and has an operating duration of "0 hours 30 minutes."

The interface 1584 also has a current step field 1570 that identifies the name 1570 of the current step, a gripper name display 1572, and an attachment name display 1574.

The interface 1584 also has a time display 1576 and a time remaining display 1578 to show the user how much time has accrued during the step and how much time is remaining for that step. Finally, the interface 1584 has control fields 1580 for playing, skipping backward, and skipping forward by step.

As mentioned above, FIG. 47 shows a touch screen 1582 on a portable device. The touch screen 1582 displays a diagram showing a start point 1586 "A" and an end point 1588 "B" (thereby defining a treatment path) to indicate to the user where to place the attachment 628 on a particular body part. In FIG. 47, the display instructs the user to move the attachment (along the treatment path) from a lower portion of the right biceps to an upper portion of the right biceps during the current step. In some embodiments, during a single step, the user may be prompted or shown on the graphical user interface two or more treatment paths (or a first treatment path and a second treatment path) on the same body part/muscle or on different body parts/muscles. For example, during a right biceps step, the user may first be prompted or shown a path that is parallel to the path shown in FIG. 47.

49-53 show an apparatus 457 similar to the apparatus 400 described above. However, the motor 402 is oriented differently as shown in FIG. 49 (the motor shaft axis A4 extends perpendicular to the motor shaft axis in the apparatus 400). It will be understood that all embodiments described herein or shown in the different figures are interchangeable and that components or inventive concepts in one embodiment can be substituted for components or inventive concepts in other embodiments. All parts in all embodiments are optional and can be interchangeable or used with parts in other embodiments. As shown in FIG. 50, the motor mounting portion 401 has a mounting wall 427, first and second mounting flanges 429 extending from the mounting wall 427, and a shaft opening 430 formed in the mounting wall 427. A boss member 432 has a threaded opening 433 formed therein. The boss member 432 receives the cylindrical damping leg 461 and has an annular slot 425 formed on its exterior, with the threaded fastener 46 received in the threaded opening 433. As shown in Figures 51-53, the motor mounting portion 401 is attached to both housing halves 103 of the housing 101. The mounting member 48, which is essentially an inwardly extending ring, is received in the annular slot 425 of the cylindrical damping member 461. In other words, the cylindrical damping member 461 is received in the opening 435 of the mounting member 48, and the ring portion 434 of the mounting member 48 is received in the annular slot 425. The threaded fastener 46 extends through the central opening of the cylindrical damping member 461 (and the opening of the mounting member 48) and is threaded into the threaded opening 433 of the boss member 432, thereby securing the motor mounting portion 401 to the housing half 103 and the housing 101. The cylindrical damping member is made of rubber or other materials and helps reduce vibration.

Motor mounting portion 401 further mounts motor 402 such that motor shaft A4 (axis of rotation) extends forward and rearward relative to the orientation of device 457 in use. This direction is also considered longitudinal. Motor shaft axis A4 (or the plane defined by the motor shaft axis) bisects housing 101.

54-56 show another embodiment in which the percussion massage device 436 has a heart rate sensor 437 located on the top handle or first handle portion 143 of the device. Any type of heart rate sensor is within the scope of the present invention. The heart rate sensor 437 is a heart rate sensor that uses infrared light to measure and record heart rate and, optionally, heart rate variability. In an exemplary use, the heart rate is measured using a process called photoplethysmography or PPG. This involves shining a particular wavelength of light, which usually appears green, from a pulse oximeter sensor on the underside or upper side of the device that contacts the skin (e.g., the top of the first handle portion). As the light shines on the tissue, the pulse oximeter measures the change in light absorption, and the device then uses this data to generate a heart rate measurement. The electronics associated with the heart rate sensor 437 are contained within the housing 101 and may be separate or on the main printed circuit board. A screen 409 displays the heart rate data. As shown in FIG. 53, a heart rate monitor opening 438 is formed in the housing, and the heart rate sensor 437 is mounted in the heart rate monitor opening 438.

FIG. 55 shows another type of heart rate monitor or sensor 439 that may be used and has first and second pulse sensors or contacts 440. The first pulse sensor is positioned to contact the palm of the user during use, and the second pulse sensor is positioned to contact the finger of the user during use. Also, the first handle portion 143 may have a recess where the contacts are located so that the user knows where to place their index finger. It will be appreciated that any of these heart rate sensors may be located on the second and third handle portions, or on all three handle portions.

56 and 56A show a device 457 with a thermal sensor 462. Any type of thermal sensor is within the scope of the present invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 54, the thermal sensor 462 is an infrared thermometer module mounted on the housing 101 of the device (shown in a non-limiting position in FIG. 56 on the third handle portion 147) that allows the user to measure the temperature of the user's muscle or other body part. FIG. 56A shows the temperature readout on the screen 409. The thermal sensor 462 is preferably in electrical communication with the PCB and/or the data PCB. It can also communicate the temperature data to an app. In an infrared thermometer, infrared light is focused on the body part to be measured or treated or being treated, or the infrared thermometer module measures the energy or radiation coming from the surface. This detector then converts the generated electrical quantity into a temperature reading of the particular muscle, body part, etc. The infrared light (see FIG. 56) is emitted through an opening in the third handle portion 147 of the housing 101, and the module is mounted within the housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the temperature reading function is integrated with and part of the treatment routines or protocols described herein. For example, instead of a routine or step within a routine being performed or extended for a predetermined period of time, the routine or step (i.e., the amount of time a particular muscle or body part is treated or targeted) can be extended until the muscle or body part (generally referred to herein as a body part) reaches a predetermined temperature. Thus, reaching a predetermined temperature can be substituted for a predetermined period of time for any of the routines described herein. For example, step 1526 of FIG. 46C can be substituted by the method 1500 applying that the device 400 is operated until a particular temperature is reached. This can be used to ensure that a body part is properly warmed up before exercising. Thus, in use, the temperature is increased from a start temperature to a predefined finish temperature and the routine can proceed to the next step or end. Also, there can be several "temperature steps" that are parts of the routine. For example, in a first step, the muscle can proceed from a start temperature and be at a second temperature. The next step may be to perform a treatment and temperature reading from the second temperature to a higher third temperature. Also, the temperature range between the start and end temperatures in a routine may vary from user to user. Additionally, haptic feedback or other notification or indication may be provided to inform the user when the finish or predefined temperature is reached and the user may proceed to the next step in the routine.

As shown in FIG. 54, in a preferred embodiment, the device 400 has a screen 409, which may or may not be a touch screen, and buttons for operating the device. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 54, the device also has a center button 403 for turning the device on and off, and a ring/rocker button 447 that provides the ability to scroll left and right (e.g., for the preset treatments described herein) and up and down (e.g., to control speed or frequency).

As shown in FIG. 55, in a preferred embodiment, the arm cover 449 has rounded edges or surfaces to prevent the user's fingers from getting caught in it, and the upper portions of the male connectors 110 each have rounded edges. As shown in FIG. 49, in a preferred embodiment, the male connectors 110 have alignment tabs 497 above each ball that mate with slots in the female opening. These tabs 497 aid in proper alignment with the treatment structure.

As shown in FIG. 49, in a preferred embodiment, the device has a wireless charging assembly 451 that provides the ability to charge the battery without plugging the battery or device into anything.

In another preferred embodiment, any of the devices taught herein may have a mechanism for heating or temperature altering an attachment (massage element, treatment structure, Ampbit) on the end of the reciprocating shaft. The attachment may have an electrical resistance element therein that provides heating to the muscle. In a preferred embodiment, the electrical resistance element is connected to a PCB through a hollow shaft. Two outwardly biased metal spring balls on the male connector act as electrical connectors to the attachment.

57-60 show an embodiment of an impact massage device having a heated massage attachment or member. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 57, the male attachment member 110 has a heating pad or heating element 502 therein. The heating element 502 is preferably electrically connected to the device's PCB 504 via electrical wiring 506 or the like. Any type of heating is within the scope of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, the heating element is an electrical resistive member located at the end of the male connector 110. In this embodiment, a wire connects the electrical resistive member to the PCB and battery. The wiring 506 can extend through a hollow shaft or other conduit and is led through the housing, down the shaft and into the male connector 110. The heating element 502 can be located inside the male connector 110 or can be part of the exterior surface as shown in FIG. 57. In an embodiment having a female connector on the device (at the end of the shaft), the heating element can be located within the female connector. In use, the heated male attachment member transfers heat to the massage member, heating the outer surface of the massage member, which can then be applied to a body part of the user. The PCB may have a controller for controlling the temperature. Multiple temperature settings (e.g., 2-10 settings) may be provided to allow different temperatures to be available to the user as needed. Cooler temperatures may also be provided. The attachment member and massage member may be made or partially made of a material that is a good conductor of heat.

Figures 58-60 show another preferred embodiment with a heated or temperature controlled massage member 508. All disclosures related to the embodiment of Figure 57 are repeated for this embodiment. In this embodiment, the female or male attachment member 110 is electrically connected to a complementary male or female attachment member in the massage member to provide power for heating or cooling the massage member 508. Figure 58 shows an arrangement in which power flows from a PCB 504 to the male attachment member 110. As shown in Figure 59, the male attachment member 110 has positive and negative electrical contacts 510 that mate with opposing positive and negative electrical contacts 512 in the female attachment member in the massage member 508, as shown in Figure 60. Figure 59 shows a male attachment member with a metal ball 514 received in a recess in the female attachment member. The metal ball 514 can be the electrical contact 510, and the electrical contact 512 can be located within a recess in the female attachment member. The heating element 502 can be located within the massaging member 508 or can be part of the exterior surface.

In use, when the massage member 508 is secured to the device and the male attachment member 110, an electrical connection is made. When the heating or cooling is turned on, the heating element 502 in the massage member 508 heats up and the heating element can then be applied to a body part of the user. A heating element or an electrically resistive member (e.g., a heating pad) can be placed in or on the massage member (e.g., a ball, cone, etc.) and the metallic connection between the male connector and the massage member is used to electrically connect to the battery.

As shown in Figs. 61 and 62, in a preferred embodiment, the app has near field communication ("NFC") capability or other capability that allows a user's mobile device with the app on the mobile device to scan an identifier, such as a barcode or QR code, prompting the app to display certain information, such as the routines described above. Fig. 61 shows a user with an impact massage device 400 in one hand and a mobile phone running the app in the other. The user is seated on a bench press machine 514, which has a placard, sign, tab, or other scannable member 516 with NFC capability or code thereon. Fig. 62 shows the scannable member 516 with a QR code 518 thereon. In use, after scanning the QR code 518 on the scannable member 516 associated with the bench press machine 514, the app displays the recovery or warm-up routine associated with that bench press machine 514. As shown in FIG. 62, the routine is a chest recovery routine.

In use, the user can tap or place their mobile device near the scannable device where the code or identifier is an NFC tag (or QR code) on the gym equipment and the app will display instructions, content or lessons customized for using the scannable device with that gym equipment. For example, on a treadmill, the user scans the QR code or NFC tag and the app recognizes that the user is about to use the treadmill. The app can then provide instructions on how to use the device in combination with the treadmill and can begin a pre-programmed routine for using the treadmill. For example, having the user tap from their left quad to their right hamstring to their left ankle to begin a pre-programmed routine for using the treadmill. The user may be prompted to begin using the treadmill. Then, after a pre-determined time (e.g., 15 seconds), the device, or a mobile device having the app software thereon, may vibrate or provide other haptic feedback. The user may then switch to the left quad and after a pre-determined time, the device may vibrate again. The user may then begin using the treadmill. Any routine is within the scope of the present invention. According to one embodiment, the device and/or app (i.e., the mobile device housing the app) may also communicate (e.g., via Bluetooth, etc.) with gym equipment (e.g., the treadmill). All machines, some exercise equipment, or gym equipment may be referred to herein as "exercise equipment."

Although the operations of the method(s) herein are shown and described in a particular order, the order of operations of each method may be changed such that certain operations may be performed in reverse order or such that certain operations may be performed at least in part simultaneously with other operations. In alternative embodiments, instructions for separate operations or sub-operations may be performed intermittently and/or alternatingly.

Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, words such as "comprise", "comprising" and the like shall be construed in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to", as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense. That is, as used herein, "connected", "coupled" or variations thereof mean either a direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements. The coupling of the connections between these elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, when used in this application, words such as "herein", "above", "below" and similar words refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular parts. Where the context permits, words in the above detailed description of the preferred embodiment using single or multiple numerals may each include multiple or single numerals. Additionally, the word "or" when referring to a list of two or more items covers all of the following interpretations: any of two or more items in the list, all of two or more items in the list, and any combination of items in two or more lists.

The embodiments herein contemplate that any of the aspects, features, components, or steps may be omitted and/or may be optional. Furthermore, where appropriate, any of these optional aspects, features, components, or steps described herein in relation to one aspect of the invention may be applied to another aspect of the invention.

The above detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form set forth above. Although specific implementations and examples of the present disclosure have been described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure, as will be recognized by those skilled in the relevant art. For example, where some processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform routines having some steps or employ systems having some blocks in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternatives or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while some processes or blocks are at times shown to be performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel or may be performed at different times. Any specific numbers described herein are merely examples, and alternative embodiments may employ different values or ranges.

The above detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise form described above. Although specific implementations and examples of the present disclosure have been described above for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. Furthermore, any specific numbers described herein are merely examples, and alternative embodiments may employ different values, dimensions, or ranges. It will be understood that any dimensions described herein are merely exemplary, and that neither the dimensions nor the description are intended to limit the present invention.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein may be applied to other systems, not necessarily those described above. Elements and functions of the various embodiments described above may be combined to provide further embodiments.

The above-referenced patents and applications, including those that may be described in accompanying application documents, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the present disclosure can be modified, if necessary, to employ systems, functions, and concepts of the various references discussed above to provide further embodiments of the present disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the present disclosure in light of the above detailed description of the preferred embodiments. The above description describes certain embodiments of the present disclosure and describes the best mode contemplated, but no matter how the above details are presented herein, the present teachings can be implemented in many ways. The details of the system may vary considerably in their implementation, but are encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, a particular term used in describing a particular feature or aspect of the present disclosure should not be taken to mean that the term has been redefined herein to be limited to any particular feature, feature, or aspect of the present disclosure to which the term pertains. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the present disclosure to the particular embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the above detailed description in the preferred embodiment section expressly defines such terms. Thus, the actual scope of the present disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the present disclosure under the claims.

Although certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certain claim forms, the inventors of this application contemplate various aspects of the disclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, although only one aspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under 35 U.S.C. 35 U.S.C. 112, paragraph 6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as means-plus-function claims or in other forms, such as embodied in a computer-readable medium. (Any claim intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C. 35 U.S.C. 112, paragraph 6, begins with "means for.") Accordingly, the applicants of this application have the right to add additional claims after filing to entitle other aspects of the disclosure to additional claims.

Thus, while illustrative embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it should be understood that all terms used herein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes, modifications, and substitutions may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
The present disclosure also includes the following inventions.
The first aspect is
In the impact treatment device,
The impact treatment device comprises:
Housing and
Power supply,
a motor disposed within the housing;
a switch for operating the motor;
a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured for reciprocal movement in response to actuation of the motor.
The second aspect is
the motor being a brushless motor having a rotatable motor shaft;
The impact therapy device further comprises a motor mount disposed within the housing;
the motor mounting portion having a mounting wall with a shaft opening formed therein;
The motor is attached to the mounting wall,
the motor shaft extends through the shaft opening;
a first mounting flange and a second mounting flange extending perpendicularly from the mounting wall;
The impact therapy device of a first aspect, wherein the first mounting flange and the second mounting flange are secured to opposite sides of the housing.
The third aspect is
a first boss member extending outwardly from the first mounting flange;
A second boss member extends outwardly from the second mounting flange;
The housing has a first housing portion and a second housing portion.
A first mounting member defining a first opening is formed in the first housing portion;
A second mounting member is formed in the second housing portion, the second mounting member defining a second opening.
the first boss member extends through the first opening;
the second boss member extends through the second opening;
a first threaded fastener securing the first boss member to the first housing portion;
The impact treatment device of the second aspect, wherein a second threaded fastener secures the second boss member to the second housing portion.
The fourth aspect is
a first cylindrical damping member having a first annular groove formed in an outer surface thereof is received on the first boss member;
a ring portion of the first mounting member received in the first annular groove portion;
a second cylindrical damping member having a second annular groove formed in an outer surface thereof is received on the second boss member;
The impact treatment device of a third aspect, wherein a ring portion of the second attachment member is received in the second annular groove portion.
The fifth aspect is
The impact therapy device further comprises a screen disposed on the housing and an infrared thermometer module disposed within the housing;
a temperature aperture is formed in the housing through which an infrared beam can be emitted;
The impact therapy device in a first aspect, wherein a temperature reading of a body part generated by the infrared thermometer module can be displayed on the screen.
The sixth aspect is
The impact therapy device of a first aspect further comprises an attachment connected to a distal end of the push rod assembly, a temperature sensor, and a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide user instructions to apply the attachment to the first body part until the temperature sensor senses that the first body part has reached a predetermined temperature.
The seventh aspect is
The percussive therapy device of a sixth aspect, wherein user instructions are provided to apply the attachment to a second body part once the predetermined temperature is reached.
The eighth aspect is
The shock therapy device according to a first aspect, further comprising a heart rate monitor.
The ninth aspect is
The impact therapy device of an eighth aspect, wherein the heart rate monitor is disposed on the first handle portion.
A tenth aspect is
A ninth aspect of the present invention is a shock therapy device, wherein the heart rate monitor is disposed on an upper surface of the first handle portion and is configured to shine light onto the user's palm to monitor heart rate.
An eleventh aspect is
A ninth aspect of the present invention is a percussion therapy device, wherein the heart rate sensor has a first pulse contact and a second pulse contact disposed on the first handle portion.
A twelfth aspect is
The impact therapy device of an eleventh aspect, wherein the first pulse contact is disposed on an upper surface of the first handle portion and the second pulse contact is disposed on a lower surface of the first handle portion.
A thirteenth aspect is
the impact therapy device further comprising a male or female attachment member on a distal end of the push rod assembly;
The impact therapy device in a first aspect, wherein the male or female attachment member has a heating element therein.
A fourteenth aspect is
the impact therapy device further comprising a male or female attachment member on a distal end of the push rod assembly;
The impact therapy device in a first aspect, wherein the male or female attachment member has a first set of electrical contacts.
A fifteenth aspect is
The impact therapy device further comprises a massage member removably secured to the male attachment member or the female attachment member;
The percussive therapy device of claim 14, wherein the massaging member has a second set of electrical contacts electrically connected to a heating element within the massaging member.
A sixteenth aspect is
the attachment member being a male attachment member having a first ball and a second ball outwardly biased therefrom;
14. The impact treatment device of claim 13, wherein the first ball and the second ball are the first set of electrical contacts.
A seventeenth aspect is
the shock therapy device further comprising a software application executable on a mobile device configured to control operation of the shock therapy device;
The impact therapy device of a first aspect, wherein the software application has routines that are accessed based on scanning a scannable member with the portable device.
An eighteenth aspect is
1. A method of using an impact therapy device, comprising:
The method comprises:
obtaining an percussive massage device having a housing, a power source, a motor disposed within the housing, a switch for activating the motor, and a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured to reciprocate in response to activation of the motor;
connecting said percussion massage device to a software application on a remote electronic device;
scanning a scannable member on an exercise device, where a routine associated with the scannable member is initiated within the software application to provide user instructions;
and massaging the first body part based on the user instructions.
A nineteenth aspect is
The method includes using the exercise device,
Aspect 18. The method of aspect 18, further comprising the step of: the first body part being exercised during use of the exercise device.

Claims (17)

In the impact treatment device,
The impact treatment device comprises:
Housing and
Power supply,
a motor disposed within the housing and including a motor shaft ;
a switch for operating the motor;
a push rod assembly operatively connected to the motor and configured for reciprocating movement in response to actuation of the motor ;
The impact therapy device further comprises a motor mount disposed within the housing;
the motor mounting portion having a mounting wall with a shaft opening formed therein;
The motor is attached to the mounting wall,
the motor shaft extends through the shaft opening;
a first mounting flange and a second mounting flange extending perpendicularly from the mounting wall;
The first mounting flange and the second mounting flange are secured to opposite sides of the housing . 2. The impact therapy device of claim 1, wherein the motor is a brushless motor and the motor shaft comprises a rotatable motor shaft . a first boss member extending outwardly from the first mounting flange;
A second boss member extends outwardly from the second mounting flange;
The housing has a first housing portion and a second housing portion.
A first mounting member defining a first opening is formed in the first housing portion;
A second mounting member is formed in the second housing portion, the second mounting member defining a second opening.
the first boss member extends through the first opening;
the second boss member extends through the second opening;
a first threaded fastener securing the first boss member to the first housing portion;
The impact treatment device of claim 2 , wherein a second threaded fastener secures said second boss member to said second housing portion. a first cylindrical damping member having a first annular groove formed in an outer surface thereof is received on the first boss member;
a ring portion of the first mounting member received in the first annular groove portion;
a second cylindrical damping member having a second annular groove formed in an outer surface thereof is received on the second boss member;
4. The impact treatment device of claim 3, wherein the ring portion of the second mounting member is received in the second annular groove portion. The impact therapy device further comprises a screen disposed on the housing and an infrared thermometer module disposed within the housing;
a temperature aperture is formed in the housing through which an infrared beam can be emitted;
2. The impact therapy device of claim 1, wherein a body part temperature reading generated by said infrared thermometer module can be displayed on said screen. The impact therapy device of claim 1, further comprising an attachment connected to a distal end of the push rod assembly, a temperature sensor, and a routine controller configured to initiate a protocol configured to provide user instructions to apply the attachment to the first body part until the temperature sensor senses that the first body part has reached a predetermined temperature. The percussion therapy device of claim 6, wherein a user instruction is provided to apply the attachment to a second body part once the predetermined temperature is reached. The impact therapy device of claim 1, further comprising a heart rate monitor. The impact therapy device of claim 8, wherein the heart rate monitor is disposed on the first handle portion. The impact therapy device of claim 9, wherein the heart rate monitor is disposed on an upper surface of the first handle portion and is configured to shine a light on the palm of the user to monitor the heart rate. The impact therapy device of claim 9, wherein the heart rate sensor has a first pulse contact and a second pulse contact disposed on the first handle portion. The impact therapy device of claim 11, wherein the first pulse contact is disposed on an upper surface of the first handle portion and the second pulse contact is disposed on a lower surface of the first handle portion. the impact therapy device further comprising a male or female attachment member on a distal end of the push rod assembly;
2. The impact therapy device of claim 1, wherein the male or female attachment member has a heating element therein. the impact therapy device further comprising a male or female attachment member on a distal end of the push rod assembly;
2. The impact therapy device of claim 1, wherein the male or female attachment member has a first set of electrical contacts. The impact therapy device further comprises a massage member removably secured to the male attachment member or the female attachment member;
15. The percussion therapy device of claim 14, wherein the massaging member has a second set of electrical contacts electrically connected to a heating element within the massaging member. the attachment member being a male attachment member having a first ball and a second ball outwardly biased therefrom;
15. The impact therapy device of claim 14, wherein the first ball and the second ball are the first set of electrical contacts. the shock therapy device further comprising a software application executable on a mobile device configured to control operation of the shock therapy device;
2. The impact therapy device of claim 1, wherein the software application comprises routines that are accessed based on scanning a scannable member with the portable device.

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