WO2016156571A1 - Scratching machine - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a scratching machine for lightly scratching or stroking the human body in self-therapy, comprising at least one stroking element and a movement mechanism for moving the stroking element. The movement mechanism includes a transport rail and a rail runner to which the stroking element is secured and which moves along the transport rail.

Description

 "Freestyle machine"

The invention relates to a self-treatment crawler for caressing or caressing the human body, wherein a movement mechanism moves a petting member over the body of the patient.

The stroking of the human skin under low pressure has a very relaxing effect on the body, mind and soul of the patient. Especially gentle touches that are barely tactile are acceptable, promote relaxation and calm down after exciting events. This effect is especially good for children who, in their tense state, can be reassured by their parents with gentle stroking, both physically and psychologically. The skin is very susceptible to such stroking especially in the neck, neck and back area.

Often, no one person is available to perform the reassuring actions.

There are various types of devices or machines known that can perform petting on a patient automatically. In order to be able to carry out cuddly treatments over the entire body of a patient, the dimensions of the machine in the operating state must correspond approximately to the dimensions of a human body which rests on a support, for example a bed. In practices or massage studios devices with dimensions that correspond approximately to the human body, usually no problem. In the private sector, however, are machines or devices with such large dimensions a hindrance in everyday life, since usually only limited housing space is available and these machines most of the day will not be needed. Patients who do not want to do without a pet-friendly device in the private sector must therefore live with severe restrictions on their living space. Known machines for caressing are complicated and usually consist of heavy and bulky items. Thus, a disassembly of such a machine for the user or patient, with the aim to accommodate the disassembled machine space-saving, almost impossible to realize.

Object of the present invention is therefore to make a proposal for a self-treatment by stroking, wherein the Space is required for the elements needed for the treatment outside the treatment is low.

This object is achieved by a crawler machine for crawling or caressing the human body in self-treatment comprising at least one petting element,

 a movement mechanism for moving the petting member, the moving mechanism having a transport rail and a rail runner to which the petting member is attached, and the rail traveler moving on the transport rail,

wherein the transport rail is designed self-supporting and the transport rail is positioned by at least one detachable from the transport rail support member over the body of the patient.

A cudgel machine according to the invention has a petting element which directly touches and strokes or crumbles the body of the patient. A creaking machine is designed so that different petting elements can be used for self-treatment, according to the wishes and needs of the patient. The petting element can be easily removed and replaced on the crawler machine. The pawl is moved by a moving mechanism over the body of the patient during the treatment in order to trigger the desired sensations there. This movement mechanism can be designed in various ways. A movement of the petting element can take place on repeating geometric paths, such as in a constant, running in a horizontal plane circular motion, however, more complex movements are possible. The movement mechanism works on its own during the treatment so that the patient does not have to take any actions that would distract him from enjoying the stroking sensations and that he can optimally relax. An inventive Kraulmaschine further comprises a transport rail, along which a rail runner moves, which in turn carries the petting. The transport rail is thus by its shape the way on which the rail runner moves and on which the petting is moved over the body of the patient. The transport rail can be constructed in one piece or from several parts. A particularly good adaptability of the petting treatment to individual wishes of the patient is possible by means of a manually deformable transport rail. In this case, the patient can shape the transport rail in such a way that the rail runner and the petting element preferably move in the areas where a stroke treatment is desired. According to the invention, the transport rail is self-supporting. This means that no additional elements are required to stably position the transport rail over the patient's body. The transport rail thus automatically retains its shape and requires no further stabilization or stiffening elements. With the transport rail only at least one support element is releasably connected. This support element serves to position the self-supporting transport rail at a certain distance above the base on which the patient is well positioned. This at least one support element is provided as a separate part, since the transport rail usually runs horizontally to allow a track of the rail runner and thus the petting over the lying human body. If the self-supporting transport rail at the same time assume the task of positioning in the vertical direction over the patient, this would have unwanted consequences for the movement of the petting, which would then have to follow along with the rail runners substantially vertical support. According to the invention, therefore, at least one support element is detachably connected to the transport rail. This detachable connection has the advantage that the support elements can be quickly separated from the transport rail in a simple and easy to use manner. An assembly and disassembly of the entire Kraulmaschine is thus simplified and facilitated by these removable support elements. A creaking machine according to the invention consists of a few components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. To build the Kraulmaschine the operator or patient must only connect the support elements with the mounting rail and put the rail runner on the mounting rail before the treatment can begin. After treatment, the machine can be easily and quickly disassembled in reverse order and prepared for space saving storage. Depending on the embodiment of the transport rail, the latter can further contribute to a space-saving storage: conceivable are designs with, for example, pluggable individual parts of the transport rail or also a plastic traceability of the transport rail, which also enables a compact storage position.

The object of the invention is likewise achieved by a crawler machine for crawling or stroking the human body in self-treatment, in particular according to the previously described embodiment, at least comprising

 at least one petting element,

 a movement mechanism for moving the petting element

 and a frame which, in a position of use, carries the movement mechanism and positions it over the body of the patient,

wherein the frame and / or the movement mechanism is in several parts, constructed of a plurality of frame or mechanism parts, which are connected to each other via simple plug-in, latching, snap or screw, and the Kraulmaschine with dissolved connections in a space-saving storage or transport - Position is available. The movement mechanism in this solution is carried by a frame and thus positioned over the body of the patient during the treatment. In most cases the patient is lying underneath the movement mechanism carried by the frame. For this purpose, the frame can be placed for example on the bed to allow a particularly comfortable self-treatment. However, such a frame may also be adapted to position the movement mechanism over the patient when, for example, he is in a sitting position. The frame is constructed in several parts separable. A one-piece design has the advantage that the frame and thus the crawler machine can be put into operation very quickly, since no effort is required to set up the machine. A multi-part dismantled construction again has the advantage that the frame can be stowed space-saving when not in use the Kraulmaschine, for example, under a bed. Furthermore, a multi-part demountable frame can also be transported very easily due to the compact dimensions in the disassembled state. This offers the advantage of being able to use the creaking machine in different places and to be able to take it along when traveling. The entire creaking machine is technically simple, so that it can be produced inexpensively. In particular, by a collapsible structure of the frame, the cage machine is compact, flexible and easy to store, which is particularly favorable for use in the private sector and at home. A connection of the individual frame parts with each other by simple plug-in, snap, snap or screw connections also allows a technically unexperienced user to easily set up and dismantle the Kraulmaschine. The connections between the frame and the movement mechanism are similarly designed to be user-friendly.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided in the proposal that the frame has a frame and a plurality of arranged on the frame legs and the frame carries the movement mechanism. In this embodiment of the invention, the frame is constructed in several parts and has a frame, which the Bewegungsmecha- wears nism. On the frame, which extends substantially in a horizontally extending plane, a plurality of legs are mounted, which position the frame in a vertical direction above the patient. Particularly favorable is the provision of four legs at four corners of the frame. Of course, other embodiments with, for example, three legs are possible.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal, it is provided that the frame has a plurality of legs which run substantially vertically in the stabling and through which the frame can be positioned in the vertical direction above the patient. Vertically extending legs that support the frame of the frame ensure good positioning of the crawler over the patient. With legs running vertically, the available length of the legs is optimally and directly transferred to the height of the frame above the patient. However, a slightly obliquely outwardly facing arrangement of the legs on the frame has the advantage that the entire frame has a more stable state. It is therefore part of the invention to arrange the legs of the frame deviating from an exact vertical orientation.

Advantageously, it is provided that the legs are connected by hinges to the frame with a storage position of the legs is provided, in which the legs are parallel to the frame and further provided a use position in which the legs have an angle to the frame. In this embodiment, the legs are movably mounted on the frame. In this case, essentially two positions are provided, a space-saving storage or transport position and a use position in which the frame is stably positioned over the patient. In the storage position, the legs are moved to a position parallel to the frame. This can be done for example via hinges, with which the legs are folded to the frame. The legs are then removed from the machine before use Storage position folded into the position of use, in which they then run, for example, a 90 ° angle to the plane spanned by the frame. It is of course also possible that the legs in the position of use enclose another angle with the plane spanned by the frame.

Furthermore, it is provided that the legs are telescopically formed and are attached via connectors on the frame. In another embodiment, the frame of the Kraulmaschine is constructed so that the legs are designed removable from the frame. This can be realized for example via a plug connection, which is plugged together in the position of use of the Kraulmaschine and the legs are thereby connected to the frame. In the storage position, however, the plug connection is disconnected and the legs are removed from the frame. To further save required storage space in the storage position, the legs can be telescopically formed. By telescoping segments, similar to a rod antenna, the length in the storage of the legs is significantly less than the length in use. When commissioning the Kraulmaschine then the telescopic legs are first pulled apart and then infected at the frame. The individual segments of the telescopic legs are then fixed by means of suitable locking devices, so that the frame forms a stable base for the creaking machine when it is in operation. Of course, it is also part of the invention to connect one-piece, not telescopically formed legs via a plug connection with the frame.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that the frame is constructed in one piece or from a plurality of frame parts. There are several embodiments for the frame of the frame of a Kraulmaschine possible. A one-piece construction of the frame has the advantage that the cost of commissioning the Kraulmaschine is very small and the movement mechanism attached to the frame can remain unchanged on the frame when the storage position of the crawler machine is taken. By contrast, a multi-part construction of the frame has the advantage that the frame can be disassembled to save space and the storage space for the crawler machine in the storage position is significantly reduced.

Clever way is provided that the frame parts can be connected to each other by at least one connector. In this embodiment, an easy dismantling or a lightweight construction of a multi-part frame is realized via plug connections. Thus, no special tool for mounting or dismounting the frame of the Kraulmaschine is needed, which ensures easy handling even for technically inexperienced people. But it is also possible to dispense with a plug connection. In this case, the frame part is integrally formed.

In a further preferred embodiment it is provided that the legs are formed as bending legs, wherein the frame is infinitely height adjustable and / or adaptable to the width of the body of the patient. In this embodiment, the legs of the frame are made bendable. As a result, the height of the frame can be adjusted individually in a simple manner. For the maximum height of the frame, the legs are used in a straight line vertically. If a lower height is desired, the legs are simply bent outward until the desired height is reached. The flexible design of the legs also allows adjustment of the points at which the frame flies on the floor or the bed under the patient. In an obese patient, you can simply bend your legs outward so they do not touch the patient's body. A flexibility of the legs can be achieved, for example, that the legs are made of a sturdy wire, but which is plastically deformable by hand. Furthermore, the legs can be made of many different NEN individual members exist, which are each pivotable to each other. Such a multi-unit construction is also used, for example, in compact tripods, which can be fixed by the flexible design, for example, to branches or piles. In addition to the legs, a flexible design of other parts of the frame and frame is part of the invention.

Advantageously, it is provided that the entire Kraulmaschine is dismantled and in disassembled state in a package of maximum size 100 x 80 x 20 cm packable, preferably in a package of maximum size 80 x 40 x 15 cm packable and particularly preferably in a Packing the maximum size 60 x 30 x 10 cm is packable. In this embodiment, the Kraulmaschine space-saving dismantled, which allows easy storage and low-cost transport. For the maximum dimensions of the package, in which the disassembled Kraulmschine is packable, an interval is specified, which is described by an upper and lower limit.

Generally, the maximum package size is described by the 3 parameters 1 (length) x b (width) x h (height).

For the length 1 the following values are available: 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100 cm.

For the width b, the values are 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100 cm.

For height h the following values are given: 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 cm. The disclosure of this application includes the amount of all pack sizes which consists of all possible combinations of the aforementioned parameters.

Furthermore, it is provided that the entire crawler machine can be dismantled and packaged in a disassembled state into a package of the maximum size 60 x 60 x 20 cm.

The finished device preferably has the following dimensions of 20 cm x 50 cm x 40 cm to 200 cm x 100 cm x 80 cm.

Generally the device dimension is described by the 3 parameters 1 (length) x b (width) x h (height).

For the length 1, the following values are given: 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200 cm.

For the width b the following values exist: 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100 cm.

For height h the following values are given: 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 cm.

A miniature version of the device has, for example, the following dimensions in the assembled state:

8cm x 8cm x 1cm to 20cm x 20cm x 10cm.

In general, the device dimension of the miniature version is described by the 3 parameters 1 (length) x b (width) x h (height).

For the length 1, the following values are available: 8, 9, 10, 11, 18, 19, 20 cm (each in 1 cm increments). For the width b, the following values are available: 8, 9, 10, 11, 18, 19, 20 cm (each in 1 cm increments).

For the height h the following values exist: 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10 cm

(each in 1 cm step).

The disclosure includes all possible combinations of the aforementioned parameters and also all meaningful intervals that are defined with the aforementioned parameter as the lower limit or upper limit.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that the entire creaking machine has a weight of less than 5 kg, preferably less than 3 kg and particularly preferably less than 1 kg or 0.5 kg. Another advantage of a Kraulmaschine is their low weight, which allows easy handling and comfortable transport. For the maximum weight of the crawler machine, an interval is specified, which is described by an upper and lower limit. The upper limit is, for example, the following value: 300 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 1.5 kg, 2 kg, 3 kg, 5 kg. The lower limit is, for example, the following value: 10 g, 50 g, 100 g, 200 g, 500 g, 1 kg. The disclosure of this application includes the set of all intervals which consists of all possible combinations of the aforementioned upper and lower limits.

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the elements of the frame, for example, the frame are formed from moldings. Moldings are strips whose cross-sectional area has cavities. The shape of the cross-sectional area of profile strips is chosen so that maximum mechanical stability of the strip is achieved with low material requirements. Moldings are thus lighter and usually cheaper than bars made of solid material. By saving material is at the same time reduces the weight of the strips. For example, the frame can be constructed of round or square tubes, which are also counted to the profile strips, or even more complex profile strips. The aim of this structure of the frame of moldings is the realization of a stable frame with the lowest possible weight and the lowest possible cost. Naturally, however, strips or materials without a profile-like structure, ie as a solid material, can also be used to form the frame.

Advantageously, it is provided that the frame made of metal, for example of iron, an iron alloy, aluminum, an aluminum alloy or plastic. For the design of the frame materials with sufficient strength and low weight are particularly suitable. Therefore, especially metals such as iron, iron alloys, aluminum, or aluminum alloys are considered as possible materials. These metals can be used either in the form of solid bars or rods or in profile form, as already explained. In addition to metallic materials, a wide variety of plastics can also be used as the material for the frame. In this case, the use of composite materials containing, for example, glass or carbon fibers in a plastic matrix, with belonging to the invention. In addition, it would also be possible to make the frame, or at least parts of it, made of wood.

In a further preferred embodiment it is provided that the movement mechanism has a cable loop, which is guided over at least two pulleys. The movement mechanism here has a closed loop of cable, which is guided over at least two pulleys and is moved around these sheaves. The concept is similar to a cable car. The petting element, which touches the patient during stroking, is attached to a point of the closed loop of rope. Through the movement the rope loop in its orbit around the rope pulleys also moves the petting element in the same orbit as the rope loop. The stroking thus also follows this orbit. These pulleys are preferably arranged in a horizontally extending plane. In this embodiment, the possibility exists over the provision of a larger number of pulleys to influence the shape of the orbit of the cable loop and thus the trajectory of the petting. The rope loop can consist of a rope or even a chain, a belt or a band. Suitable materials for the rope loop are metals, such as iron-based materials or plastics. The pulleys are designed so that they ensure a safe guidance of the cable loop in the horizontal and vertical directions. When using a plastic rope with a round cross-section as a loop of rope, for example, it is favorable to provide a circumferential groove with half-round cross-section, corresponding to the outer contour of the rope loop on the pulleys. This prevents the rope sling from slipping off the pulleys in the vertical direction.

Furthermore, it is provided that the pulleys have a diameter in the range between 2 and 30 cm, preferably a diameter in the range between 2 and 15 cm, more preferably a diameter in the range between 3 and 10 cm. For the diameter, an interval is specified, which is described by an upper and lower limit. As an upper limit, for example, the following diameters are provided: 10 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm cm. The lower limits are, for example, the following diameters: 1 mm, 5 mm, 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm. The disclosure of this application comprises the set of all intervals which consists of all possible combinations of the aforementioned upper and lower limits.

In a further preferred embodiment it is provided that at least one of the pulleys directly or via a transmission of a motor, in particular an electric motor, is driven. The generation of the stroking movement of the crawler machine is taken over by a motor which drives at least one of the pulleys around which a cable loop with the petting element attached thereto is driven. The power or torque transmission is thus carried by the engine via an optional gear on at least one pulley and from the pulley on the cable loop on the petting.

Advantageously, it is provided that the at least one petting element is releasably firmly connected to the cable loop. The connection of the petting element with the cable loop is designed here so that during operation of the crawler the petting is firmly connected to the cable loop and thus follows exactly the movements of the cable loop. However, the connection is designed so that the petting element can be easily replaced and can be solved with little effort by the cable loop. A particularly simple such connection could be realized via a loop on the cable loop, in which a hook which is attached to the upper end of the petting element is mounted. A similar operation could also be realized via a push button, one half of which is attached to the petting element and the other half to a band-like rope loop. Of course, other releasably firm connections between the petting and rope loop with belonging to the invention.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that at least one of the pulleys has a clamping mechanism which adjusts the tension of the cable loop between the pulleys. By providing a clamping mechanism on at least one of the pulleys, the position of the pulleys can be adjusted to each other, which in turn leads to an adjustability of the tension of the cable loop. For a constant and stable operation of the crawler machine An adapted tension of the rope sling is essential. If the tension of the cable loop is too low, there is a risk that the cable loop will slip off the cable pulleys or that the drive motor can not properly transfer the drive torque to the cable loop and thus to the petting element. On the other hand, if the tension of the cable loop is too high, there is a risk of mechanical strain on the crawler machine. A tensioning mechanism allows a simple adjustable tension of the cable loop as a solution to these problems. Such a clamping mechanism further has advantages in the construction and disassembly of the Kraulmaschine. Thus, during construction, the distance between the pulleys can initially be adjusted so that the cable loop can be easily pulled over the pulleys. Thereafter, the distance between the pulleys can be increased by means of the tensioning mechanism until a suitable tension of the rope loop for the operation of the crawler machine is present.

Alternatively, the arrangement of a clamping mechanism can also be dispensed with; this variant also belongs to the invention.

Furthermore, the proposal also describes a solution in which the movement mechanism comprises only one moving part. Such a solution is very simple and also leads to the desired effect. Since only one moving part is realized, the risk of failure of the device is very low.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal it is provided that the movement mechanism has a wired or wireless remote control. Remote control makes it possible for the patient to influence the behavior of the crosstrainer even when lying down during treatment. Such a remote control could, for example, affect the speed of stroking. Furthermore, it would also be conceivable to choose different, ready-made movement programs for to allow the petting treatment via the remote control. The remote control can be realized either via a cable connection or via a wireless connection, such as a radio link.

Furthermore, it is provided that the patting element has a brush-like head, which is fastened to a length-adjustable support element. In this embodiment of the petting element, this is designed in two parts. The contact of the body of the patient is made by a brush-like head, which is connected via a length-adjustable support member with the movement mechanism of the Kraulmaschine. The brush-like head can be present in various embodiments, for example, with harder and softer bristles, which in turn triggers different sensations in the treatment of the patient. About the length adjustability of the support element, the height of the head of the petting element can be adapted to the body dimensions of the patient. Thus, the length of the support element can be shortened if an obese patient whose vertical body dimensions in a lying position are larger than those of other people to be treated. Similarly, the length of the support element can be increased in small slender persons, such as children, to reach all parts of the body.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that the movement mechanism has a first movement part, which is movable along a first movement direction by a first drive, and a second movement part, which is movable along a second movement direction by a second drive, the first and the second movement direction antiparallel to each other, in particular oriented at right angles to each other and the second movement part holds the petting element. In this embodiment, the moving mechanism has two moving parts whose movements are superimposed. In a particularly favorable manner are the Movement directions of these two movement parts oriented at right angles to each other. By such an arrangement, a kind of cross table is formed, whereby superimposed movements are made possible in two mutually perpendicularly arranged, extending in a plane directions. The movement mechanism of such a designed Kraulmaschine thus has different moving parts for two directions, to each of which also own drive belongs. In addition to the preferred, rectangular arrangement of the directions of movement to each other, of course, other angles between the directions of movement are conceivable. By providing two independent moving parts, it becomes possible to approach any point below the moving mechanism. The petting member is mounted on the second moving part in this embodiment and can be moved over the body of the patient to be treated by the cross-table type of the moving mechanism in any geometric shape.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided in the proposal that the first movement part carries and guides the second movement part. The first moving part is movably mounted on the frame of the Kraulmaschine. The first movement part then carries the second movement part and guides it. In this embodiment, the second movement part is carried along during the movements of the first movement part and, moreover, can execute its own movements along the first movement part. This arrangement of the two moving parts in turn results in a cross-table type of the movement mechanism already described. Such a design enables complex movements of the petting element.

Advantageously, it is provided that a plurality of rollers are provided as storage and means for torque transmission between at least one carriage and at least one running rail. In one possible embodiment, the movement mechanism is formed by two moving parts. In this case, at least one moving part are designed as carriages, which moves on rollers. These rollers correspond with on the opposite side, for example, mounted on the frame rails. The rollers serve not only to guide the movement of the carriage, but also for the transmission of torque, which is needed to realize the movement of the carriage. At least one carriage is thus moved by motor-driven rollers on the rails. Of course, such an arrangement is also possible for both movement parts, in which case the rails for the second movement part are attached to the carriage for the first movement part.

Advantageously, it is provided that the bearing between the at least one carriage and the at least one running rail is designed as a plain bearing or linear ball bearing. In this embodiment, the bearing of the moving parts relative to the rails via sliding bearings or linear ball bearings. This ensures a precise and wear-free storage and management of the moving parts. Slide bearings are characterized by their particularly simple structure, since there are no moving parts. Also, the construction or dismantling of a Kraulmaschine according to this embodiment is simple, since the sliding bearings only need to be plugged together or placed on each other, without any adjustment effort. Linear ball bearings can be realized for example by ball cages running on the rails. Such linear ball bearings are characterized by a long life, combined with a simple assembly and disassembly. Furthermore, it is possible to realize the mounting of the moving parts of the movement mechanism via plain bearings or linear ball bearings and to provide additional rollers, via which the movement or the drive of the moving th parts is realized. Such solutions have already been described above.

Advantageously, it is provided that a control is provided which controls the movements of the movement mechanism and which has a memory in which various movement programs are stored. The provision of a controller allows a variety of movements of the Kraulmaschine. The control provides functions for approaching arbitrary points on the body of the patient and thus enables scratching or caressing exactly where the patient currently has the need. In addition to this manual control of desired body regions, however, it is also possible to store various motion programs in a memory of the controller and run automatically if desired. The automatic program sequence allows a particularly deep relaxation in the treatment, because the patient here does not need to worry about anything and can fully indulge in the sensations generated by the crawler machine.

In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the length of the petting element is adjustable by an electromotive or other drive. By providing a further drive, the length of the petting element can also be changed during operation of the crawler machine. This opens up additional treatment options. Without length change of the petting element only pulling movements can be realized when stroking. The petting member is pulled over the body of the patient in accordance with movement of the moving mechanism. The length adjustment also allows lifting and lowering of the pats, which is another way of touching the patient. Furthermore, it would be conceivable to raise the petting element to a certain height above the body of the patient and then let it drop. The impact of the petting element on the body then provides a further In addition, a change in length of the petting element allows the treatment of several parts of the body, which are at different heights without the patient has to adjust something manually on the crawler machine. If, for example, a patient lying on his stomach is accepted, his back is about 15 cm above the lying surface. The soles of his flat feet, however, are only at a height of 2-3 cm above the bed. This patient can first perform a petting on his back, whereby the length of the petting element is adapted to the back located 15 cm above the lying surface. If the petting element set in this way were then moved to the soles of the feet, it would not touch them because the soles of the feet are at a lower level. By providing a drive for length adjustment, the petting can now be lowered to touch the soles of the feet. The triggering of this lowering process could, for example, be carried out via a remote control, so that the patient can remain in its lying position during the entire treatment.

Skillfully, it is envisaged that the petting member has a coupling point for connecting different heads, the heads having different weights, different embodiments or sizes, such as different surface geometries, different types of bristles, different materials or different degrees of hardness and the intensity and type of contact between Petting and the patient by selecting a head with the desired weight and the desired execution is done. In this embodiment, the patient can influence his treatment by selecting from the heads of the petting element, which heads have different properties and effects on the feeling of stroking. For a quick and easy change of these heads, a coupling point is provided on the petting element. This coupling point can be used, for example, as a screw connection. training, snap, Baj onettverschluss or the like. The available heads of the petting element may differ, for example, by their weight. Heavier heads trigger stronger touch while stroking than lighter heads. Furthermore, the heads may have different embodiments. For example, they can be made of different materials such as metals, stones, plastics or natural materials. Also, for example, springs (bird feathers) can be used. Furthermore, a wide variety of surface geometries such as smooth surfaces, tips, rough surfaces or the like are possible. Also different degrees of hardness are possible with the heads. Finally, it would also be possible to heat, cool or vibrate such heads. In a brush-like design of the heads, the sensations that are triggered by these heads when stroking can be influenced by a variation of the bristles used.

In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the head of the petting element is executed morgensternartig. In this embodiment, the head of the petting element is formed like a ball. Thorns or spines are attached to the surface of the sphere, similar to the medieval weapon Morgenstern. Such a executed head of the petting produced when the patient touch stronger sensations, which is particularly beneficial for the promotion of circulation of the caressed or tickled skin.

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the petting element and / or the head has a connection point for connecting additional weights. In this embodiment, connection points are provided on which additional weights can be attached to the petting element. As a result, the pressure applied to the patient during stroking can be influenced quickly and easily. The receiving points can be attached either on the head of the petting or on the support element.

In particular, it is provided that the petting element also has a massage function, in particular has such a weight or such a weight can be connected in order to achieve a massage effect.

Skillfully, it is provided that the movement mechanism is formed by a disc rotatably mounted on the frame, wherein a drive motor is provided, which drives the disc and the disc carries the petting element. In this technically particularly simple embodiment, the movement mechanism is formed by a rotatably mounted disc. This disc is rotatably mounted on the frame of the Kraulmaschine and is driven by a drive motor. The petting element is attached to this, rotating during the treatment disc. It is particularly advantageous here that the petting element can be attached to different positions with respect to the center or the axis of rotation of the disc. As a result, circular stroking movements with different diameters can be generated. In addition, it is also possible to apply several pats on the disc and thereby also provide for variations in the petting treatment. To realize such a circular stroking movement, a rod, bars, rectangle or the like could be mounted on the frame and its drive motor can be driven in a circle in addition to a disc, for example.

Alternatively, it is possible that the petting is located on a string or the like and this cord is not moved with the rotating disc, but is stationary to a certain portion of the disc and there a slide track, Stencil or following the edge with different radius following a stroking motion.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal it is provided that the movement mechanism comprises a transport rail and a rail runner, wherein the rail runner moves in an adjustable direction and with adjustable speed on the transport rail. In this embodiment of the movement mechanism, a transport rail is provided, which predefines the path of a rail traveler, and thus the path of the petting element attached to the rail runner. All movements of the petting carried out thus guided by this transport rail. The rail runner is designed so that it is easy to move along the transport rail and at the same time does not jump off the transport rail or fall. The rail traveler can move in both directions along the transport rail, wherein the speed of movement of the rail traveler is adjustable in both directions.

Furthermore, it is provided that the transport rail is meander-like and extends substantially over the entire, formed by the frame or limited area or that the transport rail (40) has the shape of a carousel, wherein at least the center of this carousel on the body of the patient rests. The transport rail guides the movement of the rail runner and thus also of the coating element. With a meander-like design of this transport rail, the petting element covers a very long distance on the body of the patient and thus causes intense and varied sensations when stroking. The extension of the transport rail over the entire surface formed by the frame of the crawler ensures that all body parts of the patient, who is located below the frame, are touched in the treatment. The transport rail can also take the form of a carousel exhibit. This is to be understood as meaning that the transport rail has a center from which a plurality of paths of the transport rail extend in a substantially star-shaped, radially outward direction. It is also possible but not essential that at least the center of this carousel rests on the body of the patient.

Clever way is provided that the transport rail is self-contained and allows a circumferential movement of the rail rotor or that the transport rail has open ends. A transport rail, which is self-contained, allows a circumferential movement of the rail traveler. This has the advantage that the rail runner, while maintaining its direction of movement, reaches all points of the transport rail and repeatedly passes through it during repeated circulations. This in turn allows all body parts to be treated uniformly and regularly in a constant operating state of the crawler machine. In addition, it is also possible to form at least part of the transport rail as a dead end. To approach this area of the transport rail, the rail runner initially moves in one direction, after which a reversal of the direction of movement is required to leave this area. Of course, it is also possible to reverse the direction of movement of the rail traveler on a self-contained transport rail and to create by reversing direction further possibilities for the petting treatment.

Advantageously, it is provided that the rail runner has a drive motor and an energy store, wherein the energy store provides the energy required for the movement of the rail runner to the drive motor. In this embodiment of a Kraulmaschine the rail runner is driven by a separate drive motor and moved along the transport rail. The easily replaceable energy storage for energy This drive motor is also located in or on the rail runner. For example, the drive motor may be an electric motor which is supplied with energy by a battery also located in the rail runner or by a battery. This integration of drive and power supply in the rail runner has the great advantage that no cabling from the frame to the rail runner is necessary. Such cabling would require some technical effort, and could negatively affect the freedom of movement of the rail traveler. However, a power supply of the rail traveler via a cable connection with belonging to the invention.

Skillfully, it is provided that the rail runner has at least one guide roller which engages the transport rail and guides the rail runner along the transport rail and the drive motor generates the movement of the rail runner relative to the transport rail by transmitting a rotary motion to the at least one guide roller. At least one guide roller in this embodiment produces the mechanical contact between the rail traveler and the transport rail. This leadership role, on the one hand the task to safely store the rail runner on the transport rail, to allow a smooth movement in the direction of the transport rail and to prevent the jumping or falling of the rail traveler from the transport rail. On the other hand, this leadership has the task of generating the movement of the rail traveler relative to the transport rail. The drive motor transmits a rotational movement to at least one guide roller, which then rolls on the transport rail and thus generates the movement of the complete rail traveler. Of course, it is also possible to provide several guide rollers. Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that the rail runner has a control that controls the movement of the rail traveler on the transport rail and thereby resorting to movement programs that are stored in a memory of the controller. The provision of a control in or on the rail runner offers advantages for an individual and also reproducible treatment of patients with the crawler machine. The control directly controls and regulates the movement of the rail runner and thus the movement of the petting element on the body of the patient. By providing a memory in the controller, it is possible to store the movements for certain treatment programs in this memory and call again in the same form. The fact that the controller then automatically removes these ready-made programs during the self-treatment, the patient has no tasks on which he has to concentrate and thus can relax the treatment and the resulting sensations indulge.

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that a traction means is mounted substantially parallel to the transport rail, which moves the rail runner along the transport rail. In this embodiment, the rail runner does not have its own active drive. It is provided a traction means which engages the rail rotor and moves it along the transport rail. The traction means is mounted and guided substantially parallel to the transport rail for this purpose.

Furthermore, it is provided that the traction means is designed as a pull rope or pull strap. A particularly favorable design of a traction device for moving the rail traveler is a traction cable or tension belt of any type. For example, a traction cable can be guided along the transport rail with very little effort by means of guide eyelets. A pull strap requires a bit of effort However, digier storage and guidance offers advantages due to the very high accuracy of the executable movements.

Advantageously, it is provided that a drive attached to the frame moves the traction means. The traction means is attached in this embodiment to a rail runner. In order to move this traction means, in turn, a drive is provided, which is fastened to the frame of the crawler machine. This drive then generates the movement of the rail traveler by transmitting power to the rail runner with the aid of the traction means. The drive must be mounted only stationary to the transport rail. As a result, it is of course also possible to mount the drive, for example, on the legs or other non-moving parts of the crawler machine.

Furthermore, it is provided that in both directions of movement of the rail runner traction means are mounted, wherein the first traction means moves the rail runner in a first direction along the transport rail and the second traction means moves the rail runner in a second direction along the transport rail. In this embodiment, traction means are mounted on both sides of the rail runners. As a result, the rail runners can be pulled in both directions, which offers considerably more possibilities for the movement of the rail traveler and thus allows for a varied stroking treatment.

Skillfully, it is provided that the traction means for moving the rail traveler is designed as a self-contained loop and the rail rotor is integrated in this loop. In this embodiment, the traction means forms a closed loop in which the rail traveler is integrated, ie part of the loop. Thus engages the rail runner on two sides each one end of the traction means. This closed loop can then be moved by a drive in two directions, which also the rail runner is moved with the petting element attached thereto in two directions along the transport rail. The advantage here is especially the simple design that is inexpensive and mechanically stable.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal, it is provided that the petting element is fixed movably or immovably to the rail runner. By means of a movable attachment of the petting element to the rail runner, the petting treatment ensures that the petting element gently follows the contours of the patient to be treated. The movable attachment is preferably carried out directly below the rail rotor. However, it is also possible to provide a movable mounting only in the lower part of the petting element. In this case, a rigid part of the petting element extends adjacent to the rail runner.

Furthermore, it is provided that the support element of the petting element is rigid, for example rod-like or flexible, for example, a cord-like design. By a rigid embodiment of the petting element, for example as a rod, it is possible to trigger other sensations in the patient, as it is possible with a flexible petting element, which is formed for example by a rope. A rigid embodiment of the petting element can be mounted both rigidly on the movement mechanism and via a flexible connection to the movement mechanism.

Skillfully, it is provided that the frame has a support network, which carries the movement mechanism, in particular the transport rail. In this embodiment, a construction element is provided with a support net, which fixes the transport rail to the frame. A particularly simple embodiment is that of a network, for example a network Plastic ropes to which the transport rail is attached. A so configured Tragnetz has a low weight and can be folded to save space when not in use of the Kraulmaschine. In addition to this simple embodiment are of course other possibilities for the realization of a support network belonging to the invention as for example by a construction of metal profiles, by a tarpaulin of textile materials, by wire cables or by similar construction elements.

Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that the frame has arbitrarily curved end parts and is tunnel-like. In this embodiment of a crawler machine, two sides of the frame have curved end portions. These, for example, semi-circular executed end parts are connected to each other via rectilinear frame parts. The whole frame is thereby given a tunnel-like shape, which is placed over the patient during treatment.

Skillfully, it is provided that the curved end portions receive the legs of the frame and in particular the legs are telescopically extendable from the curved end portions. By this extendable attachment of the legs on or in the curved end portions of the frame is made possible that the tunnel-like frame can be adjusted in height above the patient and adjusted.

Furthermore, it is provided that the curved end portions and / or extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the patient parts of the frame consist of a plurality of interconnected elements, these elements are mutually movable and adjustable in position to each other. In this embodiment, the length and shape of the end portions and the narrow sides of the frame is adjustable. Under narrow sides here are the pages to understand that transverse, ie substantially 90 ° to the longitudinal axis of the patient run. The longitudinal axis of the patient runs from the head to the feet. This adjustability of the frame or its parts allows adaptation to different body sizes and body proportions of patients. The frame can always be adjusted so that it optimally surrounds and surrounds the body and thus also the neck of the patient. Such adjustability brings advantages especially when the frame should be as close as possible and parallel to the body surface of the patient. A setting in which the frame and thus also the movement mechanism with the petting element is aligned close to and parallel to the body surface, allows treatment with a very short petting. Such a short petting element makes it possible to create different sensations than are possible with long petting elements. Such a short petting element could for example consist of relatively rigid bristles, which are arranged and fixed rigidly to the movement mechanism. This makes it possible to generate more intensive sensations, more in the manner of a scratch, which further increases the variety of treatments which the crawler machine makes possible. It is part of the invention that the creaking machine or parts thereof in any embodiment also rests on the body of the patient to be treated.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal, it is provided that the curved end parts constructed from mutually movable elements and / or the parts of the frame extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the patient, which are constructed of mutually movable elements, allow the width of the frame to be adjusted. Adjustability of the width of the frame allows adaptation of the entire crawler to different body sizes of patients. An adjustment of the frame width according to the body width of the patient ensures optimal petting since all parts of the body are can be achieved pers and treated at the same time no areas where the patient is not at all.

Furthermore, it is provided that the length, which is formed by two legs and the part of the frame running transversely to the longitudinal axis of the patient, as well as the area bounded by two legs, the part of the frame extending transversely to the longitudinal axis of the patient and the base is adjustable by the interaction of mutually movable elements of the legs and / or parts of the frame. The adjustability of the geometry of the opening on the narrow side of the frame in turn allows optimal adaptation of the frame to the body dimensions of the patient. The geometry of the narrow side of the frame is formed by two legs and the narrow part of the frame. Furthermore, the bearing surface on which the crawler machine stands during treatment limits the opening on the narrow side of the frame.

Advantageously, it is provided that the transport rail is curved in the same manner as the curved end portions of the frame about a curvature axis, whereby changed during the movement of the rail traveler along the transport rail of this rail runner, and thus the petting member suspended therefrom, its vertical height above the patient. In this embodiment, the transport rail is curved in the same or similar manner as are the end portions of the frame. It is particularly advantageous if transport rail and end parts are curved about a same axis of curvature. However, it is also associated with the invention that the curvature of the transport rail via one or more axes of curvature takes place, which are different from the axis of curvature of the end portions of the frame. Due to a curved design of the transport rail, different points of this transport rail have different vertical positions above the patient. If a rail runner now moves along this curved transport rail, its vertical position changes. on to the patient, whereby a, attached to the rail runners petting, its vertical height or the same senses its vertical position changes.

Furthermore, it is provided that the petting element also reaches surface parts of the patient's body by movement along a curved transport rail, which are not oriented horizontally, in particular vertically. By a curved design of the transport rail, the petting element changes its vertical height or position relative to the patient on its way along the transport rail. By this changing vertical position of the petting element surface parts of the body of the patient are achieved, which are oriented vertically. This can be achieved by initially setting or selecting the length of the petting element such that the petting element just touches the back of a patient lying on its stomach when the guidance of the petting element, for example the rail runner on the transport rail, is in its highest position vertical position. If the guidance of the petting element then moves vertically downwards, the petting element is longer than would be necessary to reach the back of the patient and thus also reaches deeper areas of the patient's body. If, in such a position, where the petting element is longer than is needed to reach the highest body area, the petting element is guided by the movement along the transport rail from the side to the patient's body, the petting element touches lateral body parts of the patient extend substantially in the vertical direction. This offers the advantage that a larger part of the surface of the patient's body is reached and touched during the petting treatment. By attaining vertical body parts of the patient, the treatment success can be significantly improved, especially also in patients who can be treated, for example, in a sitting position of the Kraulmaschine.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal, it is provided that the transport rail is designed to be self-supporting. In this embodiment, the transport rail is designed to be self-supporting. This means that the transport rail alone is dimensionally stable without additional aids and retains its shape during the treatment of the patient. In this case, the transport rail can be made flexible by hand. This has the advantage that the course and the shape of the transport rail can be customized. If a patient wishes, for example, a particularly intensive treatment in the area of the lower back, a particularly large proportion of the transport rail can be arranged above the desired area of the lower back by means of a bendable design of the transport rail. With a large proportion of the transport rail over the preferred body area, the residence time of the petting element in this area is automatically also very long. A flexible design of the transport rail results in a large number of possible variations in the treatment of stroking. In addition, the transport rail can be optimally adapted to the anatomy of the patient. Even a space-saving packaging of the transport rail is favored by a flexibility. It is also part of the invention that the transport rail is indeed self-supporting but not manually made variable in shape.

Advantageously, it is provided that the transport rail consists of a plurality of individual rail elements, which are mutually movable and therefore designed adaptable in shape. In this embodiment, the transport rail consists of several, interconnected, individual rail elements. These individual rail elements are movable during installation and during commissioning of the Kraulmaschine by hand to each other adjustable. Thus, as described above, an individual adaptability of the transport rail and thus the petting treatment to individual wishes possible. During operation of the Kraulmaschine the joints between the individual rail elements are designed so that they maintain their position and position stable to each other. A pre-set form of the transport rail thus remains during operation of the Kraulmaschine obtained.

Conveniently, it is provided that the transport rail is connected to at least one of its ends with a base plate. In this embodiment, at least one foot plate is provided in combination with a self-supporting transport rail, which is connected to the end of the transport rail. Such a foot plate ensures a stable position of the transport rail over the patient. The connection between the transport rail and foot plate can be carried out for example as a plug connection. Of course, but other types of connections are possible and belonging to the invention. Particularly favorable for a stable state is a foot plate with a high weight, which compensate for the forces generated by the running rail on the rail transport forces particularly well.

Furthermore, it is provided that the transport rail is held by one or more support elements in their position above the patient. In this embodiment, the transport rail is stably held by one or more support members in a vertical and horizontal position over the body of the patient. The support elements engage directly on the transport rail. The support elements are designed so that they can be attached anywhere on the transport rail. Thus, in turn, a flexible design of the transport rail and an individual adaptation to the anatomy of the patient is given. Skillful way is provided that two or more rail runners are provided, which move on the transport rail. In this embodiment, a plurality of rail runners move on a transport rail. This has the advantage that the number of touch points when stroking is increased, which in turn leads to more intense sensations. The movements of the individual rail runner can be coupled together or completely independent of each other. This makes a variety of different ways for the variation of the petting treatment possible.

Advantageously, it is provided that the transport rail has a rack member having at least one rail runner a gear and the gear generates the movement of the rail traveler along the transport rail by engaging in the rack. In this embodiment, a rack member is attached to the transport rail. As a result, teeth are present along the transport rail at each location, which can be used to generate a movement. Depending on the design of the transport rail, the rack element can either be attached to the transport rail, be made with the transport rail together from a part or be excluded from the transport rail, so that the toothing is located inside the transport rail. The rack member may consist of an elastic or bendable material, such as a hard rubber or a thermoplastic. This has the advantage that the rack element can be individually brought into a desired shape together with the transport rail. To generate a movement of the rail traveler along the transport rail, the rail traveler has a toothed wheel which is in engagement with the rack element of the transport rail. A drive motor arranged in the rail runner can, via the engagement between toothed wheel and toothed rack element, achieve a stable and reliable movement of the rail runner along the transport path. generate rail. As an alternative to the positive pairing of gear and rack is also a frictional connection between a mounted on the rail runner drive wheel and the transport rail conceivable and belonging to the invention.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal, it is provided that the at least one rail runner has at least one contact sensor and the rail runner reverses its direction of movement along the transport rail in the case of a signal from the contact sensor. In this embodiment, at least one contact sensor is provided on the rail runner, which can detect a threatening impact of the moving rail traveler on another object. The contact sensor is thus arranged particularly favorable with direction of action parallel to the direction of movement of the rail rotor. The mode of action of the contact sensor can be tactile, for example in the form of a simple switch, or else contactless, such as optically, acoustically or based on radar waves. When the rail traveler moves on the transport rail, the contact sensor detects when the end of the transport rail has been reached or when a possibly existing other rail traveler comes to meet and thus threatens a collision. If the contact sensor detects another object, it generates a signal which leads to the reversal of the direction of movement of the rail traveler. For example, if the rail runner reaches the end of the transport rail, the contact sensor detects it and initiates movement in the opposite direction. If two rail runners meet on one and the same transport rail, the contact sensors of both rail runners detect the impending collision, whereby the directions of movement of both rail runners are reversed.

It is advantageously provided that the transport rail is formed by a plurality of rail pieces, each rail piece having a key element at one end and a lock element at the other end. selement, whereby the rail pieces are releasably connected to each other and the rail pieces are designed to be rigid or self-plastically deformable in itself. In this embodiment, the transport rail is constructed in several parts. The connection between the rail sections, the individual parts of the transport rail, is cleverly carried out via a key element which is connected to a matched lock element of the adjacent rail section. These key and lock elements ensure a simple and stable connection between the individual rail sections. Due to the dismantling of the transport rail in individual rail sections, the space requirement of the transport rail can be significantly reduced when not required Kraulmaschine. In addition, different shaped rail pieces can be provided, which can then be combined freely to different overall shapes of the transport rail. Similar to a model railroad, different transport rail shapes and therefore movement paths of the petting element can be individually designed by the patient. The rail elements of the transport rail can either be designed to be rigid, analogously to the example of the model railway, or they can also be made plastically deformable by hand. In the plastically deformable embodiment, there are additional design options for the shape of the transport rail or the path of the petting element. A plastic deformation of the rail pieces can be used to adapt the shape of the transport rail in all three dimensions and thus also for an adaptability of the height of the transport rail over the patient. Furthermore, the plastic deformation can be used to further reduce the space required in the storage and transport position. Curved rail sections can be bent straight before stowing, which requires significantly less space. In a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the rail pieces have at least one receiving element which is releasably connectable to a holding element, wherein the holding element is part of a support element or a hanging element. In this embodiment, the rail pieces have at least one receiving element for connecting the transport rail with a support element or a hanging element. Conveniently, the receiving element of the rail section and the corresponding holding element of the support element or a hanging element is designed so that the connection between the two is fast and easy to manufacture and also separable again. In the simplest case, the receiving element is designed as a cylindrical bore and the holding element as a cylindrical pin, wherein between two elements, the fit of a sliding seat is provided. Such an embodiment is very easy to manufacture. However, the invention is not limited to this embodiment, receiving element and retaining element can also be designed as a corresponding screwable, latchable or otherwise lockable, corresponding elements. The more receptacle elements are provided on a rail section, the more possibilities for connecting the transport rail with the support or suspension elements arise. It is possible to carry out the receiving element identical to the previously described lock element and to tune the holding element to these two counterparts. As a result, the attachment of the retaining element is made possible both in the receiving element and in the lock element. This is particularly advantageous when supporting or hanging elements are to be mounted on the front side at the ends of the transport rail. However, the invention is not limited to an identical embodiment of hanging element and lock element.

In a preferred embodiment of the proposal, it is provided that the support element is formed telescopically in its vertical and / or horizontal extent. Through the telescope - ge training an adjustability of the dimensions of the support element is achieved. A telescopic design in the vertical direction allows a simple and rapid variation of the height of the transport rail over the patient. Telescopic training in the horizontal direction also makes it possible to place the support elements farther away from the patient, so that it can be accommodated more conveniently under the crawler machine.

Furthermore, it is provided that the support element is designed as a carrying handle, which is hinged to a wall fastened. In this embodiment, the creaking machine is hinged to the wall. For this purpose, the support element, which is connectable to the transport rail, designed as a carrying handle and hinged, for example by means of a hinge, fastened to the wall. It is particularly advantageous here that the entire Kraulmaschine can be easily and quickly folded after use in a space-saving storage position parallel to the wall.

In a preferred embodiment it is provided that in particular system-like several heads or pats belong to the Kraulmaschine, which are selectable according to the need for the treatment and connectable to the rail runner or have their own rail runner.

The object of the invention is also achieved by a Kraulmaschinenset comprising a Kraulmaschine according to one of the embodiments described above, further comprising a plurality of pats which alternatively or simultaneously be fastened to the movement mechanism.

The object of the invention is further achieved by a method for self-treatment by stroking, comprising the steps:

Commissioning of a crawler machine, in particular a crawler machine according to one of the previously described embodiments. men, which has a movement mechanism for moving at least one coating element, wherein the movement mechanism of at least one support element or a frame is positioned over the body of the patient,

 Selecting at least one petting element which touches the body of the patient during the petting treatment,

Moving the at least one selected petting member by the movement mechanism over the body of the patient, wherein the position and / or the movement speed of the at least one petting element during the treatment by the patient via a remote control is influenced and the moving coating element during the treatment, by means of the remote control exchangeable or changeable in its tactile sensible properties by the patient. According to the method according to the invention for a patting treatment, first a canned machine is put into operation which has at least one movement mechanism and a support element or frame. Instead of a support element may alternatively be provided a hanging element, since it is at startup is about to position the Kraulmaschine over the patient. This is possible with both types of elements. The terms support element and suspension element are thus synonymous to understand. It is particularly advantageous if, initially, the cumbersemachine is changed from a storage position to a use position. Support member or frame are moved for storage in a space-saving position with respect to the movement mechanism. To start up then support element or frame are moved from the storage position to the use position, will be positioned by the Kraulmaschine over the body of the patient. The selection of the petting element in the next step can be done in various ways. Thus, a petting element can be selected by patients and attached by hand to the movement mechanism. Alternatively, the movement mechanism can also be carried out so that already different petting elements are prepared and a selection about an operating element, for example a remote control, takes place. In this case, no conversion of the Kraulmaschine is required. After selection, the petting member is moved over the body of the patient by the movement mechanism of the crawler. The patient can always influence the type and speed of movement of the petting element. In addition, during treatment, the patient may change the petting element or change its felt tactile properties. Cleverly, these changes are performed by the crawler automatically, with the patient overriding his wishes for treatment via a remote control.

In the drawing, the invention is shown schematically in particular in one embodiment. Show it:

Fig. 1 is a sketch of a first embodiment of a Kraulmaschine

Fig. 2 is a sketch of a second embodiment of a Kraulmaschine

Fig. 3 is a sketch of a third embodiment of a Kraulmaschine

Fig. 8a, 8b is an illustration of the operation of the legs of a particular

Embodiment of a cumbersome machine

Fig. 4 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a flat transport rail in a three-dimensional view 5 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a curved transport rail in a three-dimensional view,

6 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a self-supporting transport rail in a three-dimensional view,

7 shows a detailed view of an embodiment of a rail traveler of a crawler machine corresponding to the region VI in FIG. 6, FIG.

8 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a self-supporting transport rail in a three-dimensional view,

9 shows details of an embodiment of a rail section,

10 details of a further embodiment of a rail section,

11 details of an embodiment of a plug connection between two rail pieces, 12 is a front elevational view of an embodiment of a crawler over a bed, a side view of an embodiment of a rail traveler, a front view of an embodiment of a rail traveler, another embodiment of a crawler with a self-supporting transport rail in a three-dimensional view;

16 shows an embodiment of a crawler with a transporter rail fastened to the wall in a three-dimensional view.

In the figures, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals and therefore, if not appropriate, will not be described again. The disclosure contained in the entire description is mutatis mutandis to the same parts with the same reference numerals and the same component designations transferable. Also, the position information selected in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc. related to the immediately described and illustrated figure and are to be transferred to a new position analogous to the new situation. Furthermore, individual features or combinations of features from the illustrated and described different embodiments may represent for themselves, inventive or inventive solutions. Fig. 1 shows a sketch of a first embodiment of a Kraulmaschine. The molding machine shown here has a rectangular frame 3, on which the moving mechanism 2 is mounted. On the movable cable loop 7, which is part of the movement mechanism 2, the petting element 1 is fixed, which is moved in the operation of the Kraulmaschine by the moving mechanism 2 on the body of the patient (not shown).

The frame 3 is composed of a horizontally extending frame 5 and four vertically extending legs 4. In this case, the frame 5 is again in several parts, with the individual parts of the frame 5 are connected to each other via connectors. The legs 4 are hinged on hinges 6 on the frame 5. As shown by the arrow next to the leg 4 bottom right in Fig. 1, the legs 4 can be folded from the illustrated position of use by means of the hinges 6 in a parallel to the frame elements extending position to take a space-saving storage position. This hinged arrangement of the legs 4 on the frame 5 allows easy switching between position of use and storage position. The two shorter sides of the frame 5 each carry elements of the movement mechanism 2. The movement mechanism 2 initially consists of a cable loop 7 which is guided and supported by two pulleys 8. The cable loop 7 is circumferentially moved around the two pulleys 8, similar to a cable car. In this case, the pulley 8 shown at the rear in FIG. 1 has a motor 13 which moves this pulley 8 and thus also the cable sling 7 connected therewith in a positive and / or positive manner. The motor 13 can generate rotational movements in two directions, wherein the speed is variable in both directions. It is provided with a cable connected remote control 10, with which the patient can set and control the direction of rotation and speed of the motor 13 and thus the movement mechanism 2. The front shown in FIG. presented pulley 8 is connected via a clamping mechanism 9 with the frame 5. This clamping mechanism 9 allows a change in the position of the two pulleys 8 to each other. By changing this position of the pulleys 8 to each other, the tension of the cable loop 7 can be adjusted and varied. This is particularly useful in the construction of the crawler when the individual parts of the movement mechanism 2 need to be assembled and put into operation. The clamping mechanism 9 allows easy attachment of the cable loop 7 on the pulleys 8 in a position in which the distance between the pulleys 8 is slightly less than the length of the cable loop 7. Subsequently, the distance between the two pulleys 8 by means of the clamping mechanism 9 can be increased slightly, so that the cable loop 7 is tensioned. Sufficient tension of the cable loop 7 is a prerequisite for trouble-free operation of the Kraulmaschine. The clamping mechanism 9 is finally fixed in the position in which the cable loop 7 has a suitable tension. To disassemble the Kraulmaschine can then in turn first the tension of the cable loop 7 can be reduced by loosening the clamping device 9, before the cable loop 7 can be easily removed from the two pulleys 8. At the cable loop 7 of the movement mechanism 2, the petting 1 is releasably fixed. Detachably fixed here means that the petting 1 is firmly connected to the cable loop 7 during operation of the Kraulmaschine, but a coupling mechanism between the petting 1 and the cable loop 7 is provided which allows easy change of the petting 1, as long as the Kraulmaschine not in operation. The petting element

I consists of a length-adjustable support member 12 and attached to the end of this support member 12 head 11. This head

II of the petting 1 touches the body of the patient while stroking. Thus, it is possible on the weight or the material or the surface finish of the head 11 to trigger different sensations in the patient. The patient Thus, it is possible to select a suitable head 11 before the treatment and then fasten it to the cable loop 7 with the aid of the support element 12. It is possible here to provide a plurality of heads 11 in various embodiments in order to be able to carry out a customized petting treatment, depending on the mood. The embodiment shown in Fig. 1 has a particularly simple and inexpensive construction.

The proposal also includes solutions in which the movable elements are covered by a housing, or are designed to be accessible. An unclad device is lighter and smaller and is inexpensive to transport, a panel makes the device less susceptible to interference. In particular, it is provided that the housing is formed, for example, waterproof or dustproof, so that the device can be used for example in the leisure, on the beach or in the outdoor area. An essential aspect of such a housing design lies in particular in the described miniature version, whose essential advantage is that this device is easy to take along. Of course, the device has at least one opening to allow the effect of the petting on the skin surface unfold.

Fig. 2 shows a sketch of a second embodiment of a Kraulmaschine. In a second embodiment of a creaking machine, the frame 3 has four telescopically constructed legs 4. The position of the individual elements of the telescopically constructed legs 4 is fixed to each other in the illustrated position of use via spring-loaded locking lugs. Such a spring-loaded locking lug is shown at the bottom left in Fig. 2. To shorten the length of the telescopically constructed legs 4 presses on the spring-loaded locking lug and can then push the individual elements to save space. The movement mechanism 2 of the illustrated embodiment allows independent movement of the petting element 1 in two mutually perpendicular axes of movement or directions of movement. In this embodiment, it is therefore possible to approach with the petting element 1 both any point below the frame 3, as well as all imaginable paths within the plane spanned by the frame surface. The ability to move the petting element 1 independently of each other in the longitudinal and transverse directions of the frame 5 opens here an infinite variety of pats for the patient. The movement mechanism 2 is constructed of two interconnected carriage 21 a and 21 b. The first, in the longitudinal direction of the frame 3 moving carriage 21 a has at its ends, the rollers 22. These rollers 22 are placed on rails 20 which are mounted on top of the frame 3. Through these elements, the carriage 21 a in the longitudinal direction on the frame 3 is movable. The movement takes place in that one or more rollers 22 of the carriage 21 a are driven by a motor. It is possible as an engine 13 to use an electric motor and to realize its power supply via a power supply via the rails 20. For this purpose, a 12 V power supply is shown in Fig. 2, which has two connections to two different rails 20. Alternatively, as a power source, a battery or a battery is provided, which is particularly advantageous in the described miniature version.

On the movable carriage 21 a in the longitudinal direction of the frame 3, a further carriage 21 b is arranged, which is movable in the transverse direction of the frame 3. The directions of movement of the two carriages 21 a and 21 b thus extend at 90 ° to each other and can be done independently. The second carriage 21 b is in turn mechanically connected via rails 20 and rollers 22 with the first carriage 21 a. Likewise, the drive the second carriage 21 b via one or more rollers, which are driven by another motor. For the coordination, control and regulation of the two carriages 21 a and 21 b, a controller 23 is provided. In this controller 23 also prefabricated movement programs for the movement mechanism 2 can be stored. The petting element 1 is attached to the second carriage 21 b. Furthermore, a remote control 10 is provided, formed in the case shown as a radio remote control with which the patient during the treatment of the movement of the movement mechanism 2 and thus of the petting 1 can influence. The illustrated in Fig. 2 embodiment of a crawler machine offers almost infinite possibilities to vary the treatment by stroking.

Fig. 3 shows a sketch of a third embodiment of a Kraulmaschine. The frame 3 is here very similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1. The difference between the two embodiments in Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 lies in the movement mechanism 2. In Fig. 3, a motor 13 is arranged and fixed approximately in the middle of the horizontal surface formed by the frame 3. This motor 13 drives a substantially circular disc 30, at the edge of which in turn the coating element 1 is attached. It would also be possible to arrange several pats 1 on the edge of the disc 30 here. As a result of the rotational movement of the disk 30, the coating element 1 is thus moved in a circular movement over the body of the patient (not shown). The direction of rotation and the speed of the motor 13 and thus the movement of the disc 30 is variable and can be influenced by a remote control 10 also by the patient during the treatment. Also in this embodiment, the petting 1 is constructed of a length-adjustable support member 12 and a differently shaped head 11 and releasably fixedly connected to the disc 30. It is thus possible for the patient to select, prior to treatment, a head 11 that fits his or her ideas for a particular sensation corresponds, this then attaches to the disk 30 via the support member 12 and then performs the self-treatment with the aid of the remote control 10. The embodiment shown in Fig. 3 only allows a circular stroking for the patient, however, this configuration of a creaking machine is particularly simple and inexpensive.

The disc preferably has a diameter between 1 cm and 40 cm, in particular a diameter of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40 cm.

Figures 8a and 8b show an illustration of the operation of the legs of a particular embodiment of a camming machine. In the illustrated embodiment, on the frame 5, which is shown in the same perspective as in Fig. 3, the bending legs 60 in place of the non-flexible legs 4 are attached. In Figs. 8a and 8b, only the front part of the frame 5 is shown.

In Fig. 8a, the illustrated bending legs 60 are aligned in a straight line and not bent. The bending legs consist of different links that can be pivoted relative to each other and maintain their shape after pivoting. In Fig. 8a, all members of the bending legs 60 axis are aligned parallel to each other and not pivoted. As a result, the maximum height of the frame 5 is reached over the surface on which the Kraulmaschine stands up.

In Fig. 8b, bending legs 60 are bent outward. This causes the frame 5 to occupy a lesser height above the surface upon which the crawler stands, compared to FIG. 8a. By bending the bending legs 60, the height of the frame 5 can thus be adjusted continuously over the patient. In addition, the bendability of the bending legs 60 makes it possible to adjust the distance between the support points of the bending legs 60 and the surface of the bending legs 60. which the crawler machine is on. By way of the outward bending of the bending legs 60 shown in FIG. 8b, for example, a broader built patient will fit under the cumberpinner than in the orientation of the bending cords 60 shown in FIG. 8a.

4 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a flat transport rail in a three-dimensional view. The movement mechanism 2, this embodiment of a transport rail 40 and a rail rotor 41 is formed. The rail traveler 41 thereby moves along the transport rail 40. The movement of the rail traveler 41 can take place in circulations along the transport rail 40. In the case shown, the transport rail 40 is formed such that circumferential movements are possible and the rail runner 41 can reach all points of the transport rail 40 without reversal in its direction of movement. However, it is also possible for the rail runner 41 to change its direction of movement on a transport rail 40 formed in such a closed manner. This may turn out to be favorable for the treatment of the patient, since different sensations are triggered with changing directions of movement. Moreover, it is possible that the transport rail is not formed closed in itself, but has open ends in the manner of a dead end. In this case, the rail runner 41 can each move to the end of the transport rail. Arrived at the end, the rail runner 41 then changes its direction of movement and moves in the opposite direction along the transport rail 40 back. The shape of the transport rail 40 are virtually unlimited. In the case shown, the transport rail is designed meander-shaped in the longitudinal direction of the frame 5. However, other shapes are conceivable, such as a meander along the transverse direction of the frame 5, a zig-zag shape, circular or semicircular arches, a spiral shape or the like. The transport rail 40 is in Fig. 4 at the narrow Ends connected by two direct connection 44 directly to the frame 5. In addition, the transport rail 40 is fastened to the frame 5 via a support net 43. But it is also possible to attach the transport rail 40 either only via direct connection 44 or only via a support network 43 on the frame 5.

 The rail rotor 41 moves during operation of the Kraulmaschine along the transport rail 40. In the illustrated case, the rail rotor 41 has two guide rollers which engage around the transport rail 40 in the vertical direction. This ensures that the rail runner 41 is always guided safely along the transport rail 40 and does not jump off or fall down. The rail rotor 41 has a drive motor, for example an electric motor, which transmits its torque to at least one of the guide rollers and thus enables a movement of the rail traveler 41. To supply energy to this drive motor, an energy store, for example an electric battery or an accumulator, is provided on or in the rail runner 41. By such an energy storage no cable - connection to the rail rotor 41 is required, whereby it can move freely and without obstruction by a cable connection along the transport rail. For activation or adjustment of the Kraulmaschine a radio remote control can be provided, which in turn ensures a high freedom of movement of the rail rotor 41. It is possible to provide on or in the rail runner 41 a controller which also has a memory. By means of such a control, different movement programs can be automatically traveled by the rail runner 41. It is also possible to retrieve various stored in memory programs for the movement of the rail rotor 41. This allows the patient a variety of different pampering treatments.

5 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a curved transport rail in a three-dimensional manner. sees. This embodiment has with respect to the frame 5 significant differences from the previously described embodiments. The frame 5 is formed tunnel-like, which is mainly realized by the two curved end portions 50 of the frame 5. These end parts 50 are curved about an axis of curvature A running in the longitudinal direction of the frame 5. The legs 4 of the frame 3 are anchored in this curved end portions 50 and telescopically inserted into these end portions. This displaceability of the legs 4 ensures a simple height adjustment of the frame 5 relative to the body of the patient. Depending on the size or obesity of the patient, the frame 5 can then be placed either higher or lower over the patient. In Fig. 5, a support net 43 is stretched over the frame 5 and fastened. This mesh-like constructed support net 43 also receives by its attachment to the curved end portions 50 a curved about the axis of curvature A shape.

The support net 43 in turn carries the transport rail 40, which is also curved in this embodiment about the axis of curvature A. On the transport rail 40 runs a rail rotor 41. About the interaction and possible embodiments of transport rail 40 and rail runner 41 applies to Fig. 5 in the same manner, which has been described for these two elements to Fig. 4. However, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the curved design of the transport rail 40 provides additional possibilities for the treatment of pats by patients. By the movement of the rail traveler 41 along the curved portions of the transport rail 40, the vertical position of the rail traveler 41 to the patient changes. This means that the farther the rail runner 41 moves in the direction of the edge of the frame 5, the further the rail runner 41 lowers relative to the body of the patient. With this lowering of the rail rotor 41, the attached petting element 1 lowers. Assuming that the length of the petting element 1 is set so that it is at the highest point of the curved Transport rail 40 just touched the back of a lying on the patient's stomach, then the petting 1 lowers in a movement of the rail traveler along the transport rail 40 in the direction of the edge of the frame 5 on. By this reduction is achieved that the petting 1 also reaches body parts of the patient, which are lower than the surface of his back. It is thus also possible to reach and treat with the petting element 1 lateral, vertically extending areas of the body surface of the patient. The embodiment of a crawler machine shown in FIG. 5 thus enables the treatment of parts of the body which are at different vertical heights without any further technical elements. To be particularly favorable, an overall length of the petting 1 1 has been found from 0 cm to 80 cm.

As in the other embodiments already described, the frame 5 of the tunnel-like shape in FIG. 5 is constructed in several parts. In the case shown, the individual parts of the frame 5 can be connected to one another via plug connections. When not in use the Kraulmaschine the frame 5 can then be disassembled in a simple manner and stowed to save space. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the petting element 1 has a rigid support element 12. In contrast to a flexible, for example embodied as a cable support member 12, the strong version has the advantage that the touch sensations in the treatment of vertically lower body parts, i. when the rail runner 41 is in a lowered position, it can be strengthened because the support member, due to its rigid design, can not escape the body geometry of the patient.

FIG. 6 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a self-supporting transport rail in a three-dimensional view. In this embodiment, the transport rail 40 Self-supporting executed. This means that no further elements for supporting or stretching the transport rail 40 over the patient are required, as shown for example in FIG. The self-supporting transport rail 40 here has an irregular shape and extends in its course in both vertical and horizontal directions. The dashed line symbolizes the longitudinal axis of the body of a patient who lies under the crawler. The transport rail 40 is here designed so that each can be individually bent by hand in any shape. This creates almost infinite possibilities to vary the petting treatment and to adapt it to the individual patient. In the illustrated case, two rail runners 41 move on the transport rail 40. These rail runners in turn each carry a petting element, which in each case is provided with a star-shaped head 11 in the illustrated case. By moving two rail runners 41 along the self-supporting transport rail 40, simultaneous treatment of two sites of the patient's body becomes possible. Of course, a plurality of rail travelers 41 can be used simultaneously. At the top right in FIG. 6, a foot plate 61 can be seen at one end of the transport rail 40. This foot plate 61 serves as a kind of foundation for the self-supporting transport rail. The weight of the foot plate 61 ensures that the complex curved transport rail 40 is held in position over the patient and does not move or change in position due to the forces generated by the rail runners 41 due to their movement. However, the use of a foot plate 61 is not mandatory. At the other end of the transport rail 40, bottom left in the illustration, no foot plate 61 is used. Here is the end of the transport rail 40 directly and without aids on the ground. On the left side in Fig. 6, a support member 62 can be seen. This support member 62 can optionally be used to support the self-supporting transport rail 40 at individual locations and so as to increase the stability of the transport rail. By using a support member 62 even more complex shapes of the transport rail 40 are possible. Without the use of a support member 62, the forms of the transport rail 40 are limited in that the entire transport rail must be in equilibrium in order not to fall in the treatment. These limits are resolved by the use of a support member 62, one-sided formations of the transport rail 40 can be supported. The connection of the transport rail 40 to the support member 62 is realized so that the rail runners 41 can pass the support point without difficulty.

7 shows a detailed view of an embodiment of a rail traveler of a crawler machine corresponding to the area VI in FIG. 6. In the upper area of FIG. 7, there is the transport rail 40, of which only one section is shown here. In the lower region of the transport rail 40, a rack member 63 is attached. This rack member 63 is fixedly connected to the transport rail 40. The rail runner 41 is mounted with its hook-shaped upper portion on the transport rail 40. The rail runner 41 has the gear 64, which is in engagement with the rack member 63. An integrated in the rail rotor 41 drive rotates the gear 64. By the engagement of the gear 64 in the rack member 63 so a movement of the rail rotor 41 along the transport rail 40 is generated. The hook-shaped upper region of the rail traveler 41 slides on the transport rail 40 during the movement. To the right and left of the rail traveler 41 extend the two contact sensors 65, which are aligned parallel to the direction of movement of the rail traveler 41. In an impending collision of the rail rotor 41 with another object, first meets the plate-shaped end of the contact sensors 65 on this object. The rod-shaped part of the contact sensors then generates a signal in the rail rotor 41. This signal causes the direction of movement of the rail traveler 41 is stopped or the direction of movement reversed. The contact sensors 65 are mainly used when the rail runner 41 reaches the end of the transport rail 40 during its movement or when another rail runner 41, which moves on the same transport rail 40, comes to meet. In the lower region of the rail traveler 41, the petting element 1 is attached. The petting 1 is shown here cut. In the lower part of the petting element 1, a morning star-shaped head 11 is attached. This head 11 produces intense sensations in the patient during treatment. The spines of the morgensternartigen head can be made extendable, which offers more variation options for the treatment. Thus, a treatment may begin with retracted spines, with the head 11 acting as a ball. To increase the sensations in the patient, the spines can then be extended in the course of treatment. The mechanism for the movement of the spikes can be done for example by an additional cable from the rail runner 41. Alternatively, an electric or electronic actuator for moving the spikes can be provided in the head, which is connected by a cable with the rail rotor 41 and the energy storage therein. Alternatively, of course, a separate energy storage can be provided in the head 11. It is particularly expedient to perform the adjustable spines of the morning star-like head 11 by remote control. This allows the patient to stop the sensations of treatment directly and without interrupting the treatment. Various types of spines may be provided on or in the head 11 to provide additional variants of the treatment. Different spines can have different lengths, different bending stiffness or different tips which allow various treatments such as stroking, crawling or scratching. Of course, it is also possible, various other heads 11 of the petting 1 at to use the treatment. A further variation in the treatment can be achieved by providing a plurality of rail runners 41, the different rail runners 41 carrying different petting elements 1 and / or different heads 11. With simultaneous activation of all rail runner 41, the patient is then touched simultaneously by several, different pats 1 and / or heads 11. The rail runners 41 may be configured to have a mechanism for raising and lowering the head 11. In the event that a plurality of rail rotors 41 are provided, heads 11 which are not currently required, in particular under the control of the remote control, can be lifted off the patient or parked in a rest position on the transport rail 40. By providing a system comprising a plurality of rail guides 41 and an attachability or lowerability of the petting elements 1 or heads 11 attached thereto, a very varied treatment for the patient can be made possible. It is particularly advantageous that for this variability the Kraulmaschine does not have to be rebuilt or maintained but all functions are immediately accessible by remote control. Finally, in addition to the already tactile surfaces already described, the head 11 can also have further functions: in a head 11, a cream dispenser can be integrated, which applies cream or massage oil to the body of the patient during the treatment. Furthermore, a head 11 may have a heating or cooling function, for example, realized by a Peltier element, which is connected via a cable to the energy storage in the rail rotor 41. Such a equipped head 11 allows the treatment of patients with thermal stimuli. Alternatively, a head 11 could also be equipped with a vibratory device or device for producing light electric shocks to stimulate the skin of the patient. There is thus an enormous range of variations in additional functions for the head 11. In general, all the additional functions conceivable are those which the patient be felt pleasant or sexy. A petting element 1, which is equipped with one of the previously described heads 11, for example with heating or cooling function is also referred to as a petting element 1, although the sensation triggered by such a petting element 1 in the patient can not be referred to as petting in the narrower sense. The above-described embodiments of possible variants of the petting element 1 and / or the head 11 can, of course, also be realized in combination with another embodiment of a cress machine disclosed in another figure. This applies in particular to a combination of variably designed heads or multiply existing rail travelers 41 with the embodiments shown in FIGS. 8 and 15.

8 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a self-supporting transport rail in a three-dimensional view. In this embodiment, the self-supporting transport rail 40 is constructed from a plurality of rail pieces 42. The transport rail 40 is positioned in the illustrated case of four support members 62 in its vertical position above the patient. On the transport rail 40 is a rail rotor 41, which moves in the Streichelbehandlung along the transport rail 40 and the petting 1 carries. In the case shown, the transport rail 40 has the shape of an Ω. At the two ends of the transport rail 40 each have a support member 62 is attached. The support members 62 are easily detachably connected to the transport rail 40. In the illustrated case, the front ends of the transport rail 40 are connected to the support members 62. In the rear area of the crawler machine shown in FIG. 8, two further support elements 62 can be seen, which also hold the transport rail 40 in its vertical position. The two rear support members 62 are connected to the transport rail in the radial direction thereof. Ideally For example, the support elements 62 can be connected both to the end faces and to receiving elements 69 provided radially on the transport rail. Retaining elements 75 are respectively provided on the support elements 62 for connection to the transport rail 40. Possible embodiments of such connection interfaces are shown and described in FIGS. 9 to 11. The transport rail 40 is constructed from a plurality of rail pieces 42. These rail pieces 42 may be formed differently, for example, as straight sections or as curved sections. By providing variously shaped rail sections 42, a wide variety of forms of the transport rail 40 can be produced. Thus, the shape of the transport rail 40 is not limited to the illustrated Ω shape. Similar to a model railroad, the rail pieces 42 can be freely combined with each other, so that the user can freely design the movement path of the petting element according to his wishes. In combination with the already described connectivity of the support elements 62 with the rail sections 42 of the transport rail on the receiving elements 69, the Kraulmaschine can be varied and changed in a simple manner again and again. The division of the transport rail 40 in different rail pieces 42 also allows a very space-saving storage of the entire Kraulmaschine. In Fig. 8, the Kraulmaschine is shown ready. To transfer the machine into a space-saving storage or transport position, only the rail runners 41 must be removed from the transport rail 40, the support member 62 are separated from the transport rail 40 and the transport rail 40 are disassembled into the individual rail pieces 42. All of these activities require little manual skill and are quick to accomplish. The laid items are then stowed to save space. Equally simple is then the structure of the Kraulmaschine, so that it is ready for use again within a short time. 9 shows details of an embodiment of a rail piece 42. The illustrated rail piece 42 has a square cross-section. The viewer facing the end of the rail section 42 shows a lock element 73 in the form of a cuboid cavity. At the opposite end of the rail section 42 a to the lock member 73 geometrically corresponding key element 74 is attached. The key element 74 can be connected to the lock element 73 of the adjacent rail section 42, wherein this connection is secured against one another due to the parallelepiped configuration of the two elements by positive locking against rotation of both rail sections 42. This anti-rotation contributes to the self-supporting property of the composite of several rail pieces 42 transport rail 40. However, the cross section of the rail pieces 42 is not limited to a square shape. The cross section may also be round, oval, polygonal or other irregular cross-sectional shape. In addition, lock element 73 and key element 74 need not necessarily be configured cuboidal. Again, any other geometries are conceivable. An anti-rotation and the axial securing of adjacent rail pieces 42 to each other can be done as shown in the case by positive locking, but also non-positive connections or connections that are secured with additional locking elements with belonging to the invention. The illustrated rail section 42 is rigid. This means that the rail piece 42 is not plastically deformable or adaptable by hand. The rail piece 42 shown has two receiving elements 69 on its right side. In the case shown, these receiving elements 69 are designed as cylindrical bores, which correspond to cylindrical running holding elements 75 of the right next to the illustrated support member 62 or the hanging element 66 shown above. In order to position the transport rail 40 constructed of a plurality of rail pieces 42 (see FIG. 8) over the patient, the holding elements 75 are fold inserted into the receiving elements 69. Alternatively, the transport rail 40 can be positioned over one or more support members 62 above the patient, or the transport rail is hung over several hanging elements 66 above the patient. An embodiment with such suspension elements 66 is shown in FIG. 12.

10 shows details of a further embodiment of a rail section 42. In this embodiment, the rail section 42 is formed plastically deformable. For this purpose, it contains a plastically deformable core 70, which may be embodied for example as a metal wire. This core 70 is surrounded by a flexible sleeve 71, which may be made of a thermoplastic or a rubber, for example. This combination of core 70 and sheath 71 can be deformed by hand, with the rail piece 42 retaining the set shape after deformation. Due to this deformable design, all possible geometries can be generated individually by hand in a simple manner. In the illustrated case, the rail section 42 has an s-shaped configuration. Of course, such a trained rail piece 42 may also be bent into a straight shape, so that it looks similar to the rail section 42 shown in Fig. 9. The rail section 42 shown in FIG. 10 has a circular cross-section. At the ends of the rail section 42, a respective lock element 73 and a key element 74 are mounted. Furthermore, the rail section 42 has at its ends two radially arranged receiving elements 69. Such a flexible or shapeable rail section 42 may of course also have one to the circle of different cross-section.

FIG. 11 shows details of an embodiment of a plug connection between two rail pieces 42 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 10. On the left is an end of one Rail piece 42 with attached key element 74 can be seen. On the right side, the tail of the adjacent rail section 42 with the lock element 73 can be seen. Both rail pieces 42 can be connected to one another by inserting the key element 74 into the lock element 73. To fix this connection, a pressure piece 76 is provided on the left side, which cooperates with the groove 77 of the lock element 73 shown on the right side. The pressure piece is formed for example by a radially outwardly resiliently mounted ball, which is then pressed in the assembled state outwardly into the groove 77. Thus, both rail pieces 42 are releasably fixed to each other. In the illustrated case, key element 74 and lock element 73 have round cross sections. To further improve the security against rotation, however, these cross sections can also be performed square. At the end of the rail section 42 shown on the left side of a receiving elements 69 can be seen in plan view. This receiving element 69 is designed here as a cylindrical bore. Similarly, a receiving element 69 can also be provided at the end of the rail section 42, which has the lock element 73.

FIG. 12 shows a front view of an embodiment of a cumbersome machine placed over a bed 80. In the lower part of FIG. 12, the front side of a bed 80 can be seen. Above this, one embodiment of a crawler machine is suspended. The transport rail 40 is suspended from a support 79 by a plurality of hanging elements 66 via ropes 78. This type of positioning of the scrubber over the bed 80 has the advantage that the patient can move freely on the bed 80 and is not obstructed or constrained by the support members 62 shown in FIG. A suspension of the Kraulmaschine about the receiving elements 66 can of course also be done on the ceiling of the room, so that no stand 79 is required. Furthermore, self- understandably also a suspension of the Kraulmaschine at several above the bed suspension points possible, which brings an improved horizontal position stability of the Kraulmaschine with it.

Fig. 13 shows a side view of an embodiment of a rail rotor 41. This view serves mainly to the interaction between rail runner 41 and the connection of the transport rail 40 and the rail pieces 42 with the support members 62 (not shown) to illustrate. The support elements 62 and the suspension elements 66 are connected via the mounted on the rail pieces 42 receiving elements 69 with the transport rail 40. The rail runner 41 is therefore designed so that it can pass through the receiving elements 69 and thus also the supporting elements 62 connected there without collision. This is necessary for an undisturbed movement of the rail traveler 41 along the entire transport rail 40. The rail traveler 41 has two sprung and steerable mounted support rollers 67 which rest on the upwardly directed portion of the rail section 42 and the support rail 40. In the lower region of the rail section 42, the drive roller 68 of the rail rotor 41 is located. By the suspension 81 of the support rollers 67, the drive roller 68 is pulled to the rail section 42. By this attraction, a frictional connection between the drive roller 68 and rail section 42 is generated, which provides for the propulsion of the rail traveler 41 on the transport rail 40. The drive and the power supply are integrated in the rail runner 41, so that no cable connection or the like is required for the rail runner out. Support rollers 67 and drive roller 68 are dimensioned so that all roles in the movement of the rail rotor 41, the receiving elements 69 of the rail section 42 do not overlap. Thus, a collision-free passage of the rail rotor 41 is secured to these receiving elements 69. The two support rollers 67 are steerably mounted on the housing of the rail rotor 41, so that the rail runner 41 may also follow curved rail sections 42. On each side of the housing of the rail rotor 41, a contact sensor 65 is provided in the illustrated case. The mode of operation of this contact sensor 65 has already been described with reference to FIG. 7. At the lower end of the rail rotor 41, the petting element 1 is attached.

14 shows a front view of an embodiment of a rail traveler 41. This view corresponds to FIG. 13. In the front view it can be seen that the carrying rollers 67 are sprung and steerable. The suspension allows for a simple removal and placement of the rail rotor 41 of and on the rail section 42 and pushes the other the support rollers 67 to the rail section 42, whereby the drive roller 68 is pressed against the rail section 42. By this configuration, the rail rotor 41 can be easily mounted by hand and without tools on the rail section 42 and the transport rail 40 and is immediately ready for use without further effort to adjust the drive. In Fig. 14 is a part of a holding element 75 can be seen, which belongs either to a support member 62 or a hanging member 66 and which is not shown in Fig. 13.

FIG. 15 shows a further embodiment of a crawler machine with a self-supporting transport rail 40 in a three-dimensional view. The illustrated embodiment is conceptually very similar to the embodiment in Fig. 8. The transport rail 40 is executed in Fig. 15, however, in itself closed and has, viewed from above, an oval shape. The rail runner 41 can perform on the self-contained transport rail 40 in self-contained cycles without a reversal of the direction of travel is necessary. Of course, despite the closed transport rail 40, the rail runner 41 can be operated in such a way that it reverses its direction of travel during the treatment. versa. The transport rail 40 has in FIG. 15 two elevations 82 extending in the vertical direction. These elevations 82 cause the rail runner 41 is lifted vertically when passing these surveys 82. Thus, the attached to the rail runner 41 petting 1 is lifted upwards. By means of such elevations 82, the creaking machine can be adapted to different heights of the body of the patient to be treated. Naturally, the buttocks of a patient lying on the abdomen extend further upward than the adjacent dorsal or thigh parts. By providing an elevation 82 in the area of the underlying buttocks of the patient, the vertical position of the rail runner 41 and the petting element 1 can be kept constant to the body surface of the patient. In the case shown, the transport rail 40 is made flexible, so that surveys 82 can be generated individually at any point. It is of course also possible instead of the survey 82 to install a lowering on the transport rail, in which the vertical position is lowered relative to the rest of the transport rail. In addition to a bendable design, of course, a structure of a transport rail 40 with elevations 82 of rigid items with belonging to the invention. The three support elements 62 are designed to be telescopable in two directions in FIG. The telescopic structure of the support elements in the vertical direction allows an adjustment of the height of the transport rail 40 above the ground. On the other hand, a telescopic embodiment in the horizontal direction provides flexibility with respect to the location where the lower foot of the support member 62 is positioned. If a placement of this foot in close proximity to the transport rail 40 is unfavorable or inconvenient for the patient, the support element 62 can be placed farther away from the patient by removing the horizontal telescope.

16 shows an embodiment of a crawler with a transporter rail 40 fastened to the wall 83 in a three-dimensional manner. sional view. The transport rail 40 is fastened here foldable about the folding axis B on the wall 83. To the transport rail 40 to two support members 62 are attached, which are designed here as a carrying handle. The attachment of these support members 62 is similar to the attachment of the support members 62 in the other embodiments previously shown. In particular, the rail runner 41 can pass the transport rail 40 along the attachment of the support elements 62 without collision. At their end facing the wall 83, the support elements 62 each have a hinge 86, the fixed part of which is fixed to the wall 83. The hinges 86 allow rotation of the transport rail 40 and the support members 62 about the hinge axis B. To ensure that the transport rail 40 assumes a substantially horizontal orientation when folded down, support plates 85 are at the bottom of the support members 62 and below the hinges 86 appropriate. An edge of these support plates 85 strikes upon reaching the horizontal position of the transport rail 40 on the wall 83. As an alternative to the support plates 85, of course, other technical mechanisms for ensuring a horizontal position of the transport rail 40 in the unfolded state are conceivable. In the illustrated case, the Kraulmaschine is attached to the wall 83, that it is in the unfolded state above the bed 80. If the crawler machine is no longer needed, it can be folded upwards about the folding axis B until, in the upwardly folded state, it runs essentially parallel to the wall 83. The Kraulmaschine is housed so space-saving and hindered the user of the bed 80 in any way. If the cumbersome machine is required for treatment, it can easily be converted to a ready-to-use state by a flap that is downwards. In the ready state, as shown in FIG. 16, the surface spanned by the transport rail 40 runs essentially at right angles to the wall 83. Alternatively, the surface spanned by the transport rail 40 can also be used in the ready-to-operate state. take their angle to the wall. By a non-horizontal running, spanned by the transport rail 40 surface is achieved that the rail rotor 41 occupies different heights over the bed 80 during the circulation on the transport rail 40. These different heights can be used so that the petting element 1 fastened to the rail runner 41 partially lifts off the patient during the treatment, which enables a more varied treatment. Further up the wall 83, a retaining hook 87 is attached. This retaining hook 87 ensures that the Kraulmaschine is secured in the folded up state and does not accidentally fold down. The retaining hook 87 can also be formed hinged about an axis. Alternatively, other security elements for securing the non-used for the treatment Kraulmaschine, such as a cord o- or a Velcro on the wall 83 are conceivable. The embodiment shown in Fig. 16 may be further developed in that the creaking machine is provided with decorative elements which give the unnecessary, turned up to the wall 83 cuddly machine a pleasing appearance. On the transport rail 40, for example, glittering crystals can be attached. It would also be conceivable to provide light sources, such as light-emitting diodes, on the transport rail 40. The unneeded creaking machine can thus be used as a design element or even as lighting.

The claims now filed with the application and later are without prejudice to the attainment of further protection.

If, on closer examination, in particular also of the relevant prior art, it appears that one or the other feature is beneficial for the purpose of the invention, but not crucial, it is of course already desired to have a formulation which is such a feature , especially in the Main claim, no longer has. Such a sub-combination is also covered by the disclosure of this application.

It should further be noted that the embodiments and variants of the invention described in the various embodiments and shown in the figures can be combined with one another as desired. Here, one or more features are arbitrarily interchangeable. These feature combinations are also disclosed with.

The referenced in the dependent claims refer back to the further development of the subject of the main claim by the features of the respective subclaim. However, these are not to be understood as a waiver of obtaining independent, objective protection for the features of the dependent claims.

Features which have been disclosed only in the description or also individual features from claims which comprise a plurality of features can at any time be taken over as being of essential importance for the purpose of differentiation from the prior art in the independent claim (s), even then, if such features have been mentioned in connection with other features or achieve particularly favorable results in connection with other features.

Claims

claims 1. Cushioning machine for crawling or stroking the human body in self-treatment comprising  at least one petting element (1),  a movement mechanism (2) for moving the petting element (1), wherein the movement mechanism comprises a transport rail (40) and a rail runner (41) to which the petting element (1) is fastened, and the rail runner (41) on the transport rail (41). 40) moves,  wherein the transport rail (40) is designed to be self-supporting and the transport rail (40) is positioned over at least one of the transport rail (40) detachable support member (62) over the body of the patient. 2. Cushioning machine for crawling or caressing the human body in self-treatment, in particular according to claim 1, at least comprising at least one petting element (1),  a movement mechanism (2) for moving the petting element (1)  and a frame (3) which, in a position of use, carries the movement mechanism (2) and positions it over the body of the patient,  wherein the frame (3) and / or the movement mechanism is a multi-part, composed of a plurality of frame or mechanism parts, which are connected to each other via simple plug, snap, snap or screw, and the Kraulmaschine with dissolved connections in a space-saving storage - or transport position can be brought. 3. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the entire Kraulmaschine is dismantled and in disassembled state in a package of maximum size 100 x 80 x 20 cm packable, preferably in a package of maximum size 80 x 40 x 15 cm is packable and particularly preferably in a package of maximum size 60 x 30 x 10 cm packable. 4. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the entire Kraulmaschine has a weight of less than 5 kg, preferably less than 3 kg and more preferably less than 1 kg, 0.5 kg, 100g or 50g. 5. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movement mechanism comprises a wired or wireless remote control (10). 6. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a controller (23) is provided which controls the movements of the movement mechanism (2) and the has a memory in which various motion programs are stored. 7. camming machine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the petting element (1) has a coupling point for connecting different heads (11), wherein the heads (11) of different weight and different embodiments, such as different surface geometries, different types of bristles, have different materials or different degrees of hardness and the intensity and nature of the contact between the petting (1) and the patient by selecting a head (11) with the desired weight and the desired embodiment. 8. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rail rotor (41) has a drive motor and an energy storage, wherein the energy storage for the movement of the rail rotor (41) required energy to the drive motor available. 9. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rail runner (41) has at least one guide roller which engages the transport rail (40) and the rail runner (41) along the transport rail (40) and the drive motor, the movement of the Rail rotor (41) relative to the transport rail (40) generated by a transmission of a rotational movement on the at least one guide roller. 10. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport rail (40) consists of a plurality of individual rail elements, the are mutually movable and therefore designed adaptable in shape.  11. Cushioning machine according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport rail (40) of several rail pieces (42) is formed, each rail piece (42) at one end a key element (74) and at the other end a lock element (73) whereby the rail pieces (42) can be detachably connected to one another and the rail pieces (42) are rigid or self-plastically deformable by hand. 12. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rail pieces (42) at least one receiving element (69) which with a holding element (75) is releasably connectable, wherein the holding element (75) is part of a support element (62) or a Hanging element (66) is. 13. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transport rail (40) has a rack member (63), the at least one rail runner (41) has a gear (64) and the gear (64), the movement of the rail rotor (41 ) along the transport rail (40) by the engagement in the rack member (63) and / or the at least one rail runner (41) at least one contact sensor (65) and the rail runner (41) at a signal of the contact sensor (65) its direction of movement reverses along the transport rail (40). 14. Kraulmaschine according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support element (62) is designed as a carrying handle, which is hinged to a wall (83) attachable. A method of self-treatment by stroking, comprising the steps of:  Commissioning a camming machine, in particular a crawler machine according to one of the preceding claims, which has a movement mechanism (2) for moving at least one coating element (1), wherein the movement mechanism (2) of at least one support element (62) or a frame over the body of the patient is positioned  Selecting at least one petting element (1) which contacts the body of the patient during the petting treatment, moving the at least one selected petting element (1) through the movement mechanism (2) over the body of the patient, the position and / or the Movement speed of at least one Petting element (1) during treatment by the patient via a remote control (10) can be influenced and the moving coating element (1) during treatment, by means of the remote control (10) interchangeable or changeable in his, the patient tactile tactile properties.