WO1998015252A9

WO1998015252A9 - Massage equipment

Info

Publication number: WO1998015252A9
Application number: PCT/FI1997/000602
Authority: WO
Filing date: 1997-10-06
Publication date: 1998-08-13
Anticipated expiration: 1999-04-08

Abstract

The invention is about a massage equipment which will alleviate or eliminate acute and chronic muscle tensions as well as pains and aches by the use of infrasonic sound generated as a result of modulating and sweeping of the output of the piezo transducers or similar ones. The invention is based on several scientific researches and on their results. The modulated sound includes an infrasonic component of 1 to 16 Hz and other low frequencies as well as some higher frequencies. The output is analyzed and the got frequencies graphed in the enclosed pictures (4 and 5). This new approach enables this new type of massage equipment utilising sound vibrations. This equipment is versatile, small in size and thus enables the massage treatment to be independent of time, place, body position and of assisting personnel. Due to these properties, the equipment is also ideal for self care. The heat elements are to help to focus the massaging to the right place, the part in need of the treatment. The patent claims apply to the massage equipment (producing modulated sound) as a whole or as in parts.

Description

MASSAGE EQUIPMENT

The invention relates to equipment and a method for alleviating and/or eliminating both strain or chronic tension of the muscles and acute or chronic pain and soreness of varying degrees by means of infrasonic massage. The equipment provides sound massage by emitting infrasonic waves (1-16 Hz) and other low frequency (over 16-50 Hz) soundwaves and frequencies that are higher than 50 Hz. The effect of the equipment is enhanced by heat elements, in which vibrator parts are inserted. The heat elements improve the result of the infrasonic massage. The effect of the equipment is based on scientific research conducted by various scientists in different universities and institutes. In US 4,538,596, David A. Colasante states that low-frequency sound energy triggers a relaxation response in man. The relaxation response appears either as a decrease in muscle tension or a drop in the breathing rate or in the heart rate per minute, or as all of these. Likewise, Johnson, Hensel and Matheson state that vibration therapy has a statistically significant effect on relaxation. In their study, they used an acoustophysicai chair, supplying 37 Hz to the legs of the chair and 47 Hz to the back. The measurements were carried out by the E G method. The study is described in "Vibration effects on three measures of relaxation" in Perceptual and Motor Skills, 1985, 54, 1071-1076, summary, University of the Pacific. Further, in the summary of "Changes in wakefulness during exposure to whole body vibration" in Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology, 1985, 61 , p. 411-415, in which the test was conducted on 30 persons in a sleeping position, Landstrom & Lundstrom state that during low-frequency vibration, brainwaves correlated inversely with alertness and attentiveness so that an increase in the theta brainwaves was associated with a decrease in the alpha brainwaves. The effect was stronger with sinusoidal vibration (3 Hz) than with randomly supplied vibration of 2-20 Hz. In our opinion, the above is also associated with the relaxation response. Therefore we conducted a similar study by the present equipment, using the EEG measurement and the Fourier analysis. The result of the study: "When the Muscolive equipment used in infrasonic treatment of muscles was used on the shoulders for 15 min at a frequency of about 10 Hz (instead of 'frequency', this should read 'modulation and sweep frequency'; correction made by the Applicants), an increase in the lower frequencies of the study subject's EEG was observed immediately after the treatment. The result implies that the Muscolive equipment enhances relaxation (26 March 1997, Matti K. Ollila, M.Sc. (engineering))."

The low-frequency vibration is stated to alleviate or eliminate both acute and chronic pain and soreness efficiently. The pain barrier has been stated to rise and the pain to be alleviated in about or over 50% of the cases, and the duration of the effect has been satisfactory. As a rule, the effect has been greater in acute cases than in chronic ones. The above is also stated by T.C. Lundeberg in "Vibratory stimulation for the alleviation of chronic pain" in Ada Physiologica Scandinavica, Supplementum, 523: 1-51 abstract, 1983. The study was conducted on 731 persons, 135 of which suffered from acute pain and 596 from chronic pain. Vibration therapy was given at a moderate pressure, the selected vibrations were 50-100 Hz and lasted a maximum of 30-45 min. The study also included a comparison between low-frequency (20 Hz) and higher frequency (100 and 200 Hz) and placebo vibration. The result was that about 50% of the study subjects reported the vibration treatment to have a positive effect with the original settings of the test. In the case of slighter pain, the pain barrier was observed to rise and the pain to be alleviated in over 50% of the cases, and in the case of more severe pain, in less than 50% of the cases. The study also revealed positive correlation between the degree of pain and the absence of pain. Lundeberg has conducted or been involved in many studies that deal with correlation and interaction between vibration treatment and alleviation of pain. He has observed that vibration also has a positive effect in the long run. One of the studies dealing with the long-term effects is "Long-term results stimulation as a pain relieving measure for chronic pain" in Pain 20 (1): 13-23 abstract 1964 sep. The institute involved in these studies has often been Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.

As the low-frequency vibration has a positive effect on relaxation and alleviation of pain and soreness, we have designed equipment based on a technical solution that is different from the solutions of the previously known apparatuses. The present equipment is smaller, and it is simpler to use. The equipment can be used independently of the time, place, assisting persons and massaging position. The fastening means of the equipment are such that the same equipment fits as many different people as possible, so that the method can be used widely. Because of the flexibility of the fastening means, the same fastening means also fit different parts of the body.

The present invention is based on the use of infrasonic vibration. So far, the attempts to focus infrasound directly on the point to be massaged have not been successful. The infrasounds are generated using piezo buzzers or other such sound sources emitting about 400 Hz sound. The sound of the piezo buzzers is modulated and swept. This produces the part comprising a low-frequency sound component to the point being massaged. The modulation takes place at low frequencies, and the modulation frequency can be adjusted. As a by-product, interference is also produced. The produced modulated sound and sound sweep are supplied from the vibrator part to the point that is being massaged. The heat element facilitates the focusing of the vibrator part or parts and improves the massaging result due to its insulating effect. The heat elements do not receive heat from any separate source or any source external of the body.

The equipment comprises three main components: a control unit; a vibrator part, the number of which can vary but in this embodiment is at most two; and a heat element, the number of which can also vary; and connecting cables between the main components. The control unit comprises the components needed to control the massage equipment, and the modulation and sweep circuitry. The vibrator part/parts are connected to the control unit with a connecting cable. The heat element/elements need not be used, but they facilitate the focusing of the massage and improve the result. The heat elements have been made detachable, since heat is not suited to everyone, for example not to patients with rheumatism.

If the heat elements are used, they are integrated in the same physical entity by inserting the vibrator part in the heat element's pocket.

Many kinds of therapy and massage apparatuses based on vibration treatment are previously known, and so the technology involved also varies. When a comparison is made, one must pay attention to the type of vibration produced, the vibration frequency, the way that the vibration penetrates the point of treatment/massage, and whether the vibration is supplied directly or indirectly. In the indirect method, for example, the focusing of the treatment does not produce as good results as in the direct method. The vibration can be produced, for example, by using electromagnetic, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic and sound vibration. In the present invention, modulated and swept sound is used by means of piezo buzzers. The vibration can also vary within a certain frequency range. Also, different applications are differently independent of the place, time, massaging position and assisting persons, particularly where self-treatment is concerned. We shall also compare the invention with the publications in these respects, wherever the publications provide sufficient information.

US 4,343,303 discloses an apparatus designed to focus vibration treatment on certain parts of the body, such as the neck, head, back and waist regions. The apparatus can be provided with a vibrator or, preferably, two vibrators arranged on each side. Instead, the vibration type and the frequency used in the apparatus are not mentioned. The power source producing the vibration is a battery attached to the apparatus. The apparatuses are preferably coated with plastic, and the material on the inside is soft material suitable for the body. All the controls are contained in the apparatus that will be attached to the body. The integrated system is rather heavy and cannot be changed easily.

In the present invention, we have accurately defined the source of vibration, the vibration frequency and the type of vibration. The heat element is flexible throughout: it does not comprise hard plastic that would inhibit the use of the same element in different parts of the body, such as the arm, leg, back, side, neck, etc. The range of use of one and the same element is thus essentially wider in the present invention than in the above patent publication. Further, the energy we use is sound modulated and swept by piezo buzzers, so the present arrangement differs essentially from the apparatus disclosed in the publication.

The apparatus (apparatuses) of US 4,979,502 is also designed to focus vibration treatment on certain parts of the body, but it also contains a vibrator and adjustable heat. The power source of the apparatus is a battery. The vibration and heat are controlled manually. Different versions of the apparatus are described: for example, apparatuses for the upper part of the body, the back, waist, head and the legs. The publication does not state the type of vibration, nor the frequency (Hz), although it is mentioned that the vibration can be adjusted. The heat is generated by means of batteries in specific heat resistors. Since batteries, heat resistors, slots for vibrator parts, room for vibrators, controls, etc. are arranged in the apparatus, and since the apparatus is hard on the outside, the apparatus with the integrated structure is rather heavy and therefore not as versatile as the present invention.

In the present invention, heat is not generated separately for the heat element from any source. The heat element does not comprise any controls or batteries. The heat element of the present invention simply insulates heat, and one of its functions is to focus the massage on exactly the correct point. Adhesive tapes and straps make the same heat element suited to most people and to different parts of the body. The structure of the apparatuses disclosed in the patent publication is such that they cannot be readily modified for other parts of the body. In the present invention, the vibration type is defined, and so are the quality and frequency of the vibration. In the present invention we use modulated and swept sound, and a graph of the soundwave at a certain modulation level, including the preferred range, is also given. On these grounds the invention differs essentially from the apparatus/apparatuses disclosed in the above patent publication.

US 3,053,250 discloses a coat-shaped apparatus comprising several fastening points, tightening belts, and slots for other components, for example, for vibrators and controls, and so the coat is rather heavy, since a large number of components have been integrated therein. Sound energy is not recommended, whereas electric and mechanical vibration are.

The publication does not state the vibration frequency used. The present invention uses modulated and swept soundwaves, the sound graph of the modulated sound being defined accurately at a certain modulation and sweep frequency, i.e. different energy is used. The heat elements are also flexible in many respects: the same heat element is suited to different parts of the body and to people of different sizes. Further, the heat elements of the invention are neither large nor heavy, extending from the shoulders to the waist at the front and back of the body and thereby hampering the movements. The massage equipment using infrasound is thus also suited to self-treatment. On account of the above, and since modulated sound and a sound sweep technique are used in the present massage equipment, the equipment is different from the apparatus/apparatuses disclosed in the above patent publication. GB 1 ,136,896 discloses an apparatus that is attached to the body at different points. Electromagnetic, pneumatic or hydraulic vibration can be used in the apparatus, but sound is not mentioned. The apparatus is large, and it comprises as integrated parts a vibrator or vibrators, a control system, fastening means, energy sources, etc., so it cannot be readily used for the other parts of the body than the upper part, i.e. chest and back, for which it has been designed. The frequency of the vibration to be used is not defined. The material of the apparatus varies from synthetic to natural material, but the apparatus is rather large and heavy.

The equipment of the present invention is based on the use of modulated and swept soundwaves by sound heads and through a vibrator part, i.e. the energy form and technology are different. In the infrasonic massage equipment (the present invention), the modulation frequency can be selected quite accurately, even by the figure (Figs. 4 and 5) or the effect. The heat elements help to focus the massage. The heat elements are versatile because of their adhesive tapes and straps. They are suitable for different people and for different parts of the body, so a minimal number of heat elements are needed. They help to focus the massage and also provide thermal insulation. The only component integrated in the heat element is the vibrator part, so the lightness and versatility of the heat element are different from the above patent publication (Harness). On the other hand, heat elements are optional in the massage. The present invention is thus different from the apparatus disclosed in the above patent publication.

In the apparatus of US 5,291 ,894, treatment is based on soundwaves. The apparatus seeks to influence circulatory disorders. The recommended soundwave range is 20-20000 Hz, but the reason for such a wide range is not given in the publication. In the method, the heart rate is measured before and after the treatment by the EKG, and the body temperature and the oxygen content of the blood are monitored during the treatment. The apparatus according to the publication is complicated and requires the presence of assisting persons. The equipment of the present invention also uses infrasonic waves, modulated and swept soundwaves by means of piezo buzzers, the waves also including frequencies from the beginning of the soundwave range, i.e. about 1 Hz. For the first time in this field of technology, the frequency range of about 1-16 Hz, which directly affects the point being massaged, is included. The sound is produced by a different method, as stated above. We introduce piezo buzzers in the vibrator part. The invention is simple to use and it is well- suited to self-treatment, so no assisting persons are needed. The heat elements make massaging versatile and improve the result. On the basis of the above, the present invention is essentially different from the arrangement of the above publication. NO 158,168 discloses an apparatus in which soundwaves are used.

The soundwave range of 30-120 Hz is recommended. The sound is supplied from at least one speaker, and also music is included. The apparatus of the publication comprises a kind of bed on which the person rests during the treatment, and the sound is supplied from a cassette or record to the bed via a speaker. The application enlists different soundwave ranges for different problems, such as stress, sports injuries, rheumatism, autism, pain in the neck and shoulders. For the pain in the neck and shoulders, 68 Hz is recommended, and the same is recommended for stress. In sports injuries, a minimum of 40 Hz is recommended. The range disclosed in the claims is 30-120 Hz.

In the equipment of the present invention, speakers have been disposed of and sound is modulated and swept by means of piezo buzzers. The problem with speakers is that in a standard solution frequencies under 20- 25 Hz cannot be reached with a middle-sized speaker without a sound chamber. Also, since the piezo buzzers are small, the whole equipment can be made small. The small size and the use of a battery as a source of power also make the massage independent of the time, place, massaging position and assisting persons, and the heat elements used in the attachment also help. It is even possible to move during the massage, if necessary. The massage is not dependent on a bed or chair, nor on any other place.

On the basis of the above, the present invention is essentially different from the apparatus of the above publication.

DK 162,504 discloses an apparatus using soundwaves. The apparatus is a kind of bed to which soundwaves are supplied via a speaker to treat a person. The recommended soundwave range is also here 30-120 Hz. The main differences between this apparatus and the present invention are the same as already stated above in connection with NO 158,168. The publication also discloses a chair to which sound energy is supplied via at least two speakers, one of which is at the back and the other at the bottom or the thighs. The claim also here covers the range of 30-120 Hz. The field of use of the apparatuses also includes menstrual pains, asthma and pain in the lower back and is thus wider that in the Norwegian publication.

The differences between the present invention and the chair are the same as already stated above in connection with the bed. No speakers are used in the present invention; instead, sound is modulated and swept by piezo buzzers. This allows the use of lower frequencies of the sound spectrumifian standard speakers. Because of the technology used in the present invention, the infrasonic massage equipment is much smaller than the chair or bed. Further, the massage can be focused exactly on the point that needs massaging; the whole body need not be massaged as in the case of, for example, the chair.

In the treatment of arthritis, for example, the massage can be focused on exactly the correct points, i.e. the joints. Also, tension and pain in the neck and shoulders require simultaneous massaging on both sides of the muscle rather than massaging of the whole body or legs. On these grounds the present invention is different from the apparatuses (bed and chair) of the above publication.

US 4,753,225 discloses an apparatus in which soundwaves are used. The apparatus comprises at least one sheet transmitting vibration, the means producing the sound being arranged under the sheet. The sound is supplied from a speaker or speakers. The vibration sheet vibrates in accordance with the soundwave generated by the sound source, and infrasounds are also mentioned in the publication. A person can be treated in a lying, sitting or standing position. The soundwave range mentioned is wide: from low D 8.1 to high B 62208 Hz. The width of the soundwave range is not discussed in the publication, although the aim is to achieve harmonic sounds represented by G 48 Hz, 196 Hz and B 123 Hz. These parts and frequencies are mixed for a combined effect, and since we are here concerned with three different frequencies, three speakers are needed. However, the number of the speakers and sound generators can be even higher.

The speakers have been replaced in the present invention for the reasons that have already been stated. Even though as low a sound as 8.1 Hz is mentioned in the publication, it is not argued for.

In the equipment of the present invention, the speakers are replaced with soundwaves modulated and swept by piezo buzzers. The present equipment is small, weighing about 2-3 kg, including the accessories. The massage is easy to focus on exactly the desired point, even around the neck or the wrist. The functions of the heat elements are as stated above. The massage is not dependent on, for example, the time or place. The massage equipment receives energy from 9 V dry batteries or a 12 V mains adapter, whereas the apparatus of the publication uses a 100 W energy source. On the basis this and the technology used in the present invention the invention differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication.

US 2,742,036 discloses an apparatus in which a belt is used in the treatment/massage. On the outside the apparatus is of hard plastic, but the inside, which comes into contact with the skin, is soft. The apparatus fits, for example, the lumbar region. The apparatus comprises, as integrated components, for example fastening means, an electric wire driving a motor that generates the vibration for the belt, or alternatively batteries generating the vibration, etc. The apparatus is not large, but it does not provide any alternatives for some parts of the body, such as the neck and the shoulder region massaged from the front and the back simultaneously.

The present invention, on the other hand, allows for the massage of every part of the body. The above publication does not state what kind of vibration is preferred: mechanical or electric. In the present invention, modulated and swept soundwaves are used as described above, the soundwaves being defined in respect of both the frequency and other characteristics. The heat elements of the invention are not limited to a belt-like shape, and the only component they comprise is a vibrator part, so the degree of integration is lower than in the above publication. Further, the vibrator part can be used without the heat element, for example, directly around the joint, for which the belt is not suited, in the treatment of rheumatism. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above, the present invention differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication.

DE 35413596 discloses an apparatus that uses soundwaves in the same way as the apparatus of US 4,753,225. The figures in the two publications are identical. With regard to the difference of the present invention, the same can be stated as above in connection with US 4,753,225: for example, soundwaves modulated and swept by piezo buzzers, flexible heat elements, etc. The present invention is thus different from the apparatus/ apparatuses of the publication. US 5,014,687 discloses an apparatus that uses soundwaves. The apparatus is installed in the furnishings. A pair of vibration motors are installed at a sufficient distance from each other in a suitable place. The vibration generated by the motor is adjusted to be within the frequency range of 60 Hz in both vibrators, and the frequency range is modulated to 16 cycles per minute, the angle between the vibrators being 180 degrees. The massage contact is indirect: air functions as a transmitting medium.

In the present invention, no motors are used to generate vibration, and the effect on the point being massaged is direct. The invention can be used independently of the time, place (room) and the other matters mentioned above. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above on the equipment, the present equipment differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication.

The apparatus of US 5,007,410 is a vibrating mattress. The vibration frequency can be adjusted, and the vibrators are arranged inside foamed plastic. Each vibrator contains a motor that produces energy, and the vibration can be adjusted. The apparatus does not use soundwaves as vibration energy.

The present invention, on the other hand, uses sound and modulated and swept soundwaves by means of piezo buzzers. There are no motors in the invention. The massage can be focused on a desired point, for example, by heat elements. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above on the invention, the present invention differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication. The apparatus of the international (PCT) patent publication EO

88/04919 is a bed or the like. The person rests on a rigid bed, under which there is an air space, to which sound is supplied from speakers. Air transmits the resonance to the person lying on the bed.

The differences between the present invention and the above apparatus have already been stated: the speaker or speakers have been replaced with piezo buzzers, and the massage is easy to focus on exactly the desired point. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above on the massage equipment, the present invention differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication. The apparatus of US 5,101 ,810 is a chair to which sound energy is produced through a speaker or speakers. The apparatus has at least one point at which the sound from the speaker is directed to a person sitting in the chair; the person can simultaneously wear headphones and listen, for example, to music for relaxation. The sonic vibration and the music are intended to be synchronised. (The claim) states 30-120 Hz. In the present invention the speaker has been replaced with the solutions mentioned above: modulated and swept soundwaves are produced by means of piezo buzzers, whereby the infrasonic range (1-16 Hz) is also reached, and the heat elements make it possible to focus the massage only on the point needing massaging, rather than on the whole body. Further, the equipment is small: about 2-3 kg, including the accessories. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above on the massage equipment, the present invention differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication.

The apparatus of US 5,143,055 is also a chair, although slightly more modern than the one of US 5,101 ,810 discussed above. This chair can be adjusted more. The present invention differs from the apparatus of the publication on the same grounds as stated above in connection with US 5,101 ,810: soundwave modulated and swept by means of piezo buzzers, focusing of the massaging effect, and the other principles of the present invention. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above, the present invention differs essentially from the chair of the above publication.

US 4,732,140 discloses an apparatus comprising an elastic belt that uses an electrically-driven motor as a source of energy. The apparatus is suited to, for example, the arm, leg and back. The apparatus is small in size, as a different energy form is used and as the use of the apparatus is restricted to only some parts of the body. The apparatus does not allow massaging of, for example, the muscles in the neck and shoulder region simultaneously from the front and the back. On the basis of this and the other principles of the present invention (modulated and swept soundwave, piezo buzzers, etc.), the present invention is different from the apparatuses of the above publication.

The apparatus of EP 451 ,419 massages both directly and indirectly by vibration brought about by mechanical bellows. The bellows are driven by an electric motor. The publication recommends indirect treatment via water in a bathtub, and the accessories have been designed accordingly. In the indirect treatment the medium is thus water, and the treatment/massage preferably takes place in the bath, the apparatus being attached to the bathtub with a specific fastening means. The massaging effect is transmitted by water. The motor inside the bellows sets the vibrator at the end of the bellows in motion, thereby making it vibrate. From there the vibration is transmitted to the water. The apparatus also allows direct massage. In the direct treatment, the apparatus functions in a similar manner as a mechanical massage apparatus, massaging with a rather small section.

The present invention differs essentially from the apparatus of the above publication used for giving vibration massage via water on the following grounds: water is not used in the present invention, energy is sound energy, and modulated and swept soundwaves are produced by means of piezo buzzers. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above, the present invention is different from the apparatus of the above publication in the indirect massage. In addition, no water or bathtub is needed when the massage equipment of the present invention is used. In the direct method the massaging section is so small that, for example, a thigh muscle cannot be massaged from one point.

In the present invention, the vibrator part and the heat elements make it possible to massage even a large muscle from one point. In the direct method, it is difficult for a person to massage himself/herself e.g. at the shoulder blades, and even if one massages a more easily reachable part of the body, the arm used in the massage will always be strained. When a person is treating himself/herself with the equipment of the present invention, he/she need not do anything with the arm; all he/she has to do is be there. He/she can also move, if necessary. Further, a different energy form, i.e. sound, is used in the present invention. On the basis of this, the present invention is essentially different from the direct method described in the above publication.

The apparatus of WO 95/04516 is designed mostly for cosmetic and also surgical treatment. The apparatus is particularly designed for use in facial treatment. The treating effect is obtained by stimulating the facial muscles electrically with a current of 135 mA, for example, for cosmetic purposes. In addition to the electric stimulus, fingers must be used to treat the facial muscles in another part of the face, and the position of the fingers has to be changed every 1-1.5 seconds. In the equipment of the present invention, we use modulated and swept sound and vibration and heat elements rather than electromagnetic^" energy, and so the present invention differs from the apparatus of the above publication.

US 4,538,596 teaches the use of low-frequency sound in the prevention of postoperative adhesion formation. The publication also states the common advantages of low-frequency sonic vibration, such as relaxation of muscles, a drop in the breathing rate, a drop in the heart rate per minute, and general relaxation. We agree. The test described in the publication was conducted in a sound chamber of about two cubic metres using a large speaker, to which energy was supplied from a soundwave generator. The effect of the vibration was indirect, and the sound range was 1-20 Hz and the power 120-160 dB. The size of the speaker was about 38 cm. The effect, transmitted by air, was indirect in the sound chamber.

The present invention does not apply speaker technology: speakers have been replaced with solutions mentioned above. Also, the massaging force is not as great. In the invention, the massaging effect is direct, which is ensured by the heat elements. Modulated and swept soundwaves produced by means of piezo buzzers are used in the invention. The massage is focused directly on the point that needs massaging, not indirectly on the whole body like in the sound chamber. Therefore, it is not necessary in the present invention to subject the ankle to sonic vibration if it is the muscles in the neck and shoulders that need massaging. The equipment is small, and its use is independent of many matters, such as the time and place.

On the basis of this and of what has been stated above on the massage equipment, the present invention differs essentially from the sound chamber of the above publication with its large speakers and indirect effect.

An acoustic chair, described in a brochure, in which speakers can be programmed to produce sonic vibration of 27-115 Hz is also known in Finland. Since speakers are used in the apparatus, we refer to what has been stated above in connection with US 5,143,055. Despite the facts that here the speakers can be programmed and music can be listened to in the chair so that the sound of the sonic vibration is not audible, the same points are relevant.

The present invention uses modulated and swept sound produced by piezo buzzers, rather than speakers. The method also makes it possible to use the lower frequencies of about 1-20 Hz of the sound range. In addition, the infrasonic massage is focused exactly on the desired point rather than on the whole body. The equipment is small. On the basis of this and of what has already been stated above in connection with US 5,101,810, the present invention is essentially different from the chair described in the brochure.

Various massage apparatuses are also commercially available: massage apparatuses which are driven by electricity and by which one can massage oneself, using adjustable mechanical force and vibration. These apparatuses differ from the present invention, for example, in the respect that the invention is based on the use of a modulated and swept infrasonic range rather than on mechanical massage. Further, it is difficult to treat oneself with mechanical massage apparatuses, since the arm employed will always be strained, and especially the back is difficult to massage without any help.

When the present invention is used, one can massage all parts of the body oneself. Once the equipment has been put in place, there is no need to strain any part of the body; one can either just be or move, if necessary. On the basis of this and of what has been stated above, the present invention differs essentially from the chair concerned.

Ultrasound is also used for vibration treatment, the sound frequency then being over 16000 Hz. Such apparatuses differ essentially from the technology used in the present invention, in which the audible sound is not even close to such values, the audible sound maximum in the present invention being about 400-500 Hz and the massage equipment primarily producing the lower vibrations of 1-20 Hz of the sound range.

In the following, we shall illustrate the technology of the massage equipment, infrasonic equipment, in greater detail with reference to the figures.

Figure 1 shows a top view of the fixed connectors and the upper part and the vibrator part of a control unit as a physical (integrated) entity. Reference number 1 indicates a control unit as a whole. The name of the equipment, Muscolive 3000, will be put in the place where the line begins. Reference number 2 indicates a vibrator part as a whole. The vibrator part comprises an about 3 mm thick rubber mat 3, to which piezo buzzers are fastened. A rubber sheet has been selected since it bends easily on the point to be massaged and has good wear resistance, but other kinds of mountings can also be used.

This model comprises eight piezo buzzers 4 in a line, in groups of three. The three sound heads in a group are interconnected and they always emit sound simultaneously, until the sound transfers to the next group of three, etc. The sound heads are arranged so that the sound-emitting parts are on the same side of the rubber sheet.

The piezo buzzers are here sound heads of the type MEB-9, but other types of sound heads or the like that produce the same effect can also be used. The vibrator part is connected to a fixed connector 7 of the control unit by means of a connecting cable 5 and its connector part 6. The connecting cable can vary in length, depending on the point to be massaged and on the desired distance of the control unit. The number of wires inside the connecting cable depends on the number of sound heads. The connecting cable can also be implemented as a wireless solution or by using a single optical fibre cable. The connector part 6 of the connecting cable can be connected to the control unit only in one way. The connection is further secured by a locking and unlocking ring 9 in the connector part of the connecting cable. The control unit 1 comprises modulation and sweep circuitry.

Reference number 10 indicates a part adjusting the modulation frequency. The modulation frequency can be adjusted in the range of about 1-50 Hz. On top of the part there is an arrow to help to select the modulation frequency. For example, when the arrow points to number 8, the modulation frequency is about 8 Hz. Below the modulation frequency adjustment part there is the word 'Frequency', in the figure letter F and subnumber 10.1. Next to the modulation frequency adjustment part there are numbers 8 and 16, and number 10.2 at letter N. Numbers 8 and 16 help in the selection of the modulation frequency, showing in which direction the frequencies are higher and in which direction they are lower. Reference number 12 in the control unit indicates the on/off switch of the equipment.

Reference number 12.1 indicates an 'on' position and number 12.2 an 'off position. The control unit also comprises a sweep switch 11 for selecting the direction of the sweep. The direction of the sonic massage is selected by the sweep switch. When the sweep switch points towards a unidirectional arrow 11.2, the massage starts in the first group of three piezo buzzers, moving on to the second, etc. until the final, i.e. eighth group, and returning then directly to the first group. When the sweep switch points towards a bi-directional arrow 11.1 , the massaging motion goes back and forth. The sweep switch controls microcircuit IC 4 of Figure 3 with microcircuit IC 3. On the front of the control unit there are two slots for the fixed connectors 7 of the connecting cable of the vibrator part. Between them, there is a fixed connector 8 for the mains adapter. The control unit can be implemented so that each sound-emitting group can be modulated at a different frequency. The frequencies can be, for example, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, etc. Hz. In addition, the sound heads can be arranged in different patterns, for example, in a circle.

Figure 2 shows the fixed connectors and the back of the control unh^¬ and the back of the vibrator part. Two electric wires 13 extend from the back of each piezo buzzer. The wires of the piezo buzzers are connected to the connection cable at a connection point 14. At the back of the control unit 1 , there is a battery compartment for two 9 V batteries 15. On account of the batteries the equipment can be used independently of the time and place.

Figure 3 shows the modulation and sweep circuitry of the control unit. Reference numbers 10, 11.1 , 11.2 and 12 in Figure 3 indicate identically as in Figure 1. The circuitry, together with the vibration parts, produces, for example, a low-frequency infrasonic wave.

The piezo buzzers are modulated by the sweep circuitry, as a result of which the envelope consisting of a carrier contains an adjustable low- frequency component, which also contains infrasound (1-16 Hz). An oscilloscope is used for the measurement. The modulation frequency can be adjusted in the range of about 1-50 Hz (cf. amplitude-modulated radio transmission). The circuitry makes it possible to select either unidirectional or bi-directional sweep. The sweep rate is selected by an RC circuit R2/C1. Microcircuit IC 1 functions as a pulse oscillator. R 2 is a potentiometer functioning as an adjustable resistor. R2 determines the charge and discharge rate of capacitor C1. Two 9 V dry batteries or a 12 V mains adapter are used in the equipment. The control unit allows the use of at least two vibrator parts. The control circuit can also be designed for more than two vibrator parts.

Figure 4 shows an envelope of the equipment as a sound sum graph. The graph has been produced by real-time analyzer P&K 2131 at the regional institute of occupational health in Tampere. The sound, modulated at a modulation and sweep frequency of about 8 Hz, has been recorded in one piezo buzzer by one vibration transducer during one (1) minute. The graph shows the presence of low soundwaves and soundwaves under 20 Hz. The figure shows the frequency components of the burst as a function of frequency. The reference level is 0 dB, which is equal to one millionth part of acceleration, metre divided by one second to a power of two, which is equal to the threshold of audibility.

Figure 5 shows a graph of a sound burst during two seconds, produced by a Fourier analyzer. The graph has been produced by a vibration transducer to Advantest R9211 B at the regional institute of occupational health in Tampere. The abbreviations in the figure stand for the following: mV = millivolt, Xa = signal strength, dBV square root, Hz = signal strength determined by Fourier analysis, dBMg = form of Fourier analysis and power spectrum as a continuous curve, and 500.Om = millihertz V2 Hz the next being 600... 1 Hz ). The graph also shows that the soundwave continuum contains soundwaves under 16 and 25 Hz. The measurement was carried out at the modulation and sweep frequency of about 8 Hz, which is why there are two sound bursts in the upper part of the figure: at the modulation and sweep frequency of 8 Hz the sound travels twice through the same piezo buzzer in two seconds.

Figure 6 shows an inside view of a heat element 16. Fastening straps 17 are located on the sides. The length of the straps can vary according to the need. The vibrator part is inserted into a pocket 18 of the heat element. To facilitate the handling, the vibrator part is inserted into a pouch made of a similar fabric as the lining material of the heat element. The material coming into contact with the skin is fabric 19 pleasant to the skin, such as polyester, i.e. the same material as the pouch accommodating the vibrator part. Reference number 20 indicates the layer structure of the heat element: in addition to the lining the element comprises the following three layers starting from the inside: wool, thin steel wool or the like with a coarseness of 000 or 00, and a wool coating. It therefore functions as a thermal insulator. The material coming into contact with the skin can also be polypropane, Gore-tex or thin lining fabric. In the heat element the wool can be replaced with cotton or cotton wool or the like, and the steel wool can be replaced, for example, with aluminium fabric. The fastening straps 17 are such that the same heat element fits as many people of different sizes as possible, which is another advantage in addition to the advantages of the heat elements stated above. The different materials of the heat elements are sewn together so that they comprise four (4) layers of material, a pocket for the vibrator part, and straps of different lengths for fastening. Figure 7 shows a special heat element 21 for the limbs. It is fastened with flexible adhesive tapes 22. The same part fits a maximum number of people. It also fits several parts of the body. The heat element also comprises a pocket for the vibrator. Figure 8 shows an outside view of a cape 23 for use, for example, on the shoulders and neck. One size fits a very large number of people. Two vibrator parts with approximately the same massaging force can be arranged inside the cape, since the cape comprises two vibrator pockets. The cape can also be used for different parts of the body, for example, for double massage of the limbs from above and from below.

All the heat elements have the same composition as described above in connection with Figure 6. Other similar materials can also be used.

The operating principle of the massage equipment is described below. The principle is based on the formation of a low-frequency infrasonic wave by means of piezo buzzers. The soundwave produced by the piezo buzzers is modulated and swept by a control unit. The sweep circuitry is implemented by microcircuit technology, as in Figure 3, or by an arrangement performing the same functions, such as relays or a microprocessor. As a result, the envelope of the sound burst contains a low-frequency infrasonic component, which is usually 50-90% of the modulated sound. The sweep frequency can be adjusted within the range of about 1-50 Hz. Adjuster: Frequency, reference number 10 in Figure 1.

The modulated soundwave sweep can be selected by a switch to be unidirectional or bi-directional. The switch turns from left to right, back and forth. In Figure 1 , indicated by reference number 11 and its subnumbers. The mechanical switch controls a suitable microcircuit. In Figure 3, microcircuit IC 4 (up/down counter) is used, the microcircuit controlling microcircuit IC 5 (switch), but other similar connections are also possible.

The sweep rate can be selected, for example, by RC circuit R2/C1 of Figure 3. R2 is a potentiometer functioning as an adjustable resistor. The sweep rate can also be generated by mircoprocessor technology, relay control technology, or the like.

The energy can be received, for example, from 9 V dry batteries or an external 12 V mains adapter. The operating voltage is switched by an on/off switch, which is indicated by reference number 12 and its subnumbers in Figure 1. In the standard equipment, three piezo buzzers always emit sound simultaneously.

The equipment can also be implemented so that the number of piezo buzzers, sound sources, emitting sound simultaneously can vary from one to eight, depending on the application.

The control unit's modulation and sweep circuitry, by which the modulated soundwave is produced, can also be implemented so that IC circuits 1 , 3, 4 and 5 are replaced with a central processing unit CPU, i.e. a microprocessor. The simultaneous emission of sound from two or more piezo buzzers results in intermodulation frequencies (interference) of the frequencies of the sound-emitting sound sources. This is usually heard as fading. It shows as a change in the envelope of the modulated sound burst.

The proportion of low frequencies can be estimated from the change in the envelope of the sound burst. The sound intensity of the vibrator part (3*8 piezo buzzers in standard equipment) depends on the sweep frequency. The higher the frequency, the lower the sound intensity. This is a direct result of how long the piezo buzzers are allowed to sound. The basic frequency of the modulated soundwave is about 400 Hz, produced from the natural frequency of about 6000 Hz of the piezo buzzers. The basic frequency of 400 Hz and the 6000 Hz frequency are both seen in the envelope of Figure 4. The natural frequency depends on the structure of the crystal. The natural frequency of piezo buzzers is usually 5000-8000 Hz. The frequency of sound audible by ear naturally depends on the frequency of the piezo vibrator (piezo buzzer) or the like. The type of the piezo vibrator is not relevant to the present invention, as long as it produces a soundwave that is audible by ear, which is then modulated at a suitable sweep frequency.

For better results, the equipment also comprises heat elements that help to focus the massage and provide thermal insulation. The material of the heat elements can be selected from a large number of materials, as long as the material provides thermal insulation.

The massage equipment with all the standard accessories weighs about 2-3 kg, so it is easy to move.

The equipment of the present invention is essentially different from all previously known massage apparatuses on at least the following grounds: 1. First, modulated and swept soundwaves, including infrasonic waves, are produced in the invention by means of piezo buzzers. This is now introduced for the first time in direct massage. Further, the low-frequency vibrations and other matters noticed in the EEG measurement and other tests help to trigger a relaxation response and alleviate pain and soreness, which in turn enhances the person's metabolism, blood circulation and over-all well- being.

2. Second, an essential difference between the equipment of the present invention and the apparatuses disclosed in the publications discussed above is that the present equipment is small and light and that the massage is independent of the time, place, assisting persons and massaging position. Direct massage is enhanced by heat elements, which help to focus the massage and also provide thermal insulation.

3. Third, we do not use speakers as a sound source in the sonic massage: they have been replaced with piezo buzzers or other such sound heads, and the sound is modulated and swept. This improves the effect of the massage equipment and adds to its versatility. It also enables the small size of the equipment and opens new horizons in the field.

4. Fourth, although in some of the above publications soundwaves are used to produce the massaging effect, the same frequencies as in the present invention are not used, or if the frequencies are the same, the soundwave is produced differently from the present invention.

Claims

1. Claim 1. Massage equipment in which the massaging effect is produced by soundwaves, characterized in that in alternative ways modulated and swept soundwaves, which include the infrasonic range and a low-frequency sound component of 1-20 Hz, are produced by means of piezo buzzers or other such sound heads and different control units, the massage equipment comprising a control unit and at least one vibrator part and optionally at least one multi-layer heat element, which both focuses the massage and functions as a thermal insulator, the heat element being capable of being integrated, if necessary, in the vibrator part.

2. The massage equipment according to claim 1. characterized in that the sound can be modulated and swept unidirectionally or bi-directionally by the piezo buzzers in the control unit within the range 1-50 Hz, preferably 1-20 Hz, using different technical solutions, such as microcircuits, relays, microprocessors or the like, and that the resultant sound range also containing a low-frequency sound component can be focused directly on the point to be massaged.

3. A vibrator part of the massage equipment according to claim 1, from which the modulated and swept sound is supplied directly to the point to be massaged, characterized in that the vibrator part comprises a varying number of piezo buzzers or other such sound heads, which also produce a low-frequency 1-20 Hz soundwave directly to the point to be massaged.

4. A multi-layer heat element of the massage equipment according to claim 1, which focuses the massage on exactly the correct point and functions as a thermal insulator at the point being massaged, characterized in that the heat element can be integrated in the vibrator part of the massage equipment and in the entity forming the control unit.

5. A connection cable between the control unit and the vibrator according to claim 1, characterized in that the connection cable can comprise electric wires or an optical fibre cable, or the connection cable can be wireless.

6. A control unit of the massage equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that the modulation frequency and sweep rate implemented by it can be implemented either by an RC circuit, relays, microprocessor or other such technology.

7. The control unit of the massage equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that sound can be modulated and swept by it within the range of 1-50 Hz by means of buzzers, the frequency of the audible sound being about 300-500 Hz. 8. The control unit of the massage equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that the modulation and sweep frequency is 1-50 Hz, that the control unit can also be implemented so that each sound-emitting sound group can be modulated at a different frequency, the frequencies being, for example, 6,

8, 10, 12, etc. Hz, and that the sweep frequency can be selected separately, and that the sound heads can be arranged in different patters, for example, in a circle.

9. The massage equipment according to claim 1, in which the vibrator part can be integrated in at least one multi-layer heat element, characterized in that the heat element comprises four layers of material, which can be accomplished by different material solutions.

10. The vibrator part of the massage equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that the vibrator part is connected to the control unit by means of the connecting cable, and that the connection can also be a wireless connection.