PRESSURE WAVE DEVICE WITH DOUBLE VALVE DEVICE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for treating the human or animal body with mechanical pressure waves which are generated by the impact of an accelerated projectile on an applicator.

[0002] Devices of this type have been known for some time and are increasingly being used. Mechanical pressure waves are used to treat patients (whether human or animal). These waves are coupled by placing an applicator on the patient's body and are generated by the collision of an accelerated projectile with the applicator. The applicator does not necessarily have to be a single piece, but can also be composed of several different parts or materials.

[0003] A proven and widely described technique for accelerating the projectile is pneumatic. This technique involves applying pneumatic overpressure to a volume on one side of the projectile as it moves along a path, e.g., in a tube.

[0004] In the prior art, a switching valve is used for this purpose. This valve is connected to a pneumatic supply, in particular a compressor with adjustable output pressure. Its pulse accelerates the projectile from an end of the travel path distal to the applicator toward the applicator. The pneumatic actuation is deactivated when the proximal end of the travel path is reached, i.e., when the projectile impacts the applicator.

[0005] In the state of the art, the return movement is carried out with the help of a counter-pressure chamber, i.e. a storage volume into which the projectile moving towards the applicator displaces the air in front of it, thus essentially inflating this storage volume.

[0006] In the previously published EP 2 181 730 B1, which was revoked in the opposition appeal proceedings due to lack of feasibility, a targeted pressure limitation in this counterpressure chamber is discussed in addition to a control of the opening time of the switching valve for acceleration, which is not further specified. This document also mentions the use of a second switching valve for returning the projectile to its distal starting position after being acted upon by the first switching valve.

[0007] US 2014 / 350438 A1 describes a ballistic pressure wave device according to the preamble of claim 1, which is designed to generate particularly intense waves for crushing body concretions. Among other things, a pneumatic solution with a second valve is proposed for projectile redirection.

[0008] US 2009 / 326425 A1 describes a ballistic pressure wave device whose pneumatic system is designed to cause at least two collisions as a result of an acceleration process of the projectile.

[0009] DE 20 2010 009 899 U1 describes an electromagnetic pressure wave device that proposes a second electromagnet to return the projectile and prevent damage to a return spring.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide, on this basis, a device of the type described with a pneumatic device for projectile movement which is improved with regard to the forward and backward movement of the projectile.

[0011] To achieve this object, the device according to claim 1 is proposed. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0012] Accordingly, the device according to the invention comprises, as part of its pneumatic device, a double valve device for pressurizing the projectile in both directions, i.e., toward the applicator and vice versa, away from it in the return direction, i.e., e.g., the combination of a first and a second valve. The time phases in which the projectile is pneumatically pressurized so that it moves in the direction, i.e., e.g., the activation phase of a first valve, are referred to below as the first activation time, and conversely, a time phase of reversed actuation of the projectile is referred to as the second activation time. According to the invention, the device should be designed (i.e., in particular, a control device present therein should be designed) so that the second activation time is variable. This can be the case in addition to a variability of the first activation time or even with a fixed, predetermined first activation time.

[0013] Depending on the requirements and priorities of the individual case, various advantages can be achieved. In particular, the impact velocity of the projectile on the applicator can be varied, even independently of a change in the accelerating pressure. For example, the second activation time can begin before the collision between the projectile and the applicator, with this part before the collision being variable. If this part of the second activation time, firstly, overlaps with the first activation time during a final phase and / or secondly, occurs after the end of the first activation time but before the collision, the impact velocity is reduced.

[0014] If both activation times overlap, for example, with approximately equal pneumatic pressure on both sides of the projectile, the accelerating force during execution could be compensated, allowing the projectile to move virtually force-free or at least with reduced accelerating force during this time phase ("overlap period"). In the other case (without overlap), the projectile would actually be decelerated. In both cases, reduced impact velocities can be achieved without reducing the pressure.

[0015] On the one hand, this provides an additional degree of freedom in control. On the other hand, it could (in addition to or independently of this) allow for a relatively high pressure and thus a high average velocity during the projectile's return without correspondingly high impact velocities (assuming the projectile accelerates due to this pressure in its direction).

[0016] Additionally or independently, the projectile's return can also be achieved with different accelerations due to a different proportion of the second activation time after the collision (including the case where this occurs exclusively after the collision). This also allows the return to be influenced without changing the pressure, both in terms of duration and speed. This can be of interest, for example, when a relatively high pneumatic pressure is applied.

[0017] The second activation time can also continue beyond the restart of the next movement of the projectile in the direction of travel toward the applicator. With a portion of a second activation time that continues beyond the restart of the projectile's movement in the direction of travel, the impact velocity during the next collision can also be controlled by varying the portion of the second activation time that falls within the forward movement. In principle, the return movement can also be initiated with a second activation time, and then, after its end, another second activation time can begin toward the end of this return movement.

[0018] Additionally or independently of this, a new second activation time can of course begin before the end of this forward movement of the projectile and can in turn be used additionally or alternatively to control the impact speed.

[0019] From the above explanations, it is already clear that the variability of the second activation time can affect its temporal position (relative to the point at which the projectile impacts the applicator) and / or its temporal duration. For example, the same second activation time could have a constant duration after impact, but a variable duration before impact, and thus a variable start and total duration, or conversely, a fixed start (relative to impact) and a variable end. Furthermore, it could have a fixed duration, but could vary in the beginning and end, and of course, the start, end, and duration could vary.

[0020] The combination of two switching valves was discussed above, which represents one possibility for a double valve device provided according to the invention. In this variant, the two valves can be controlled (preferably independently of each other) by the control device. Alternatively, a single valve can be used, referred to here as a "combination valve," which, depending on the control by the control device, has at least two switching states: a first for actuating the projectile in the direction toward the applicator and a second for actuating it in the reverse direction. While the combination valve is in the first switching state, a first valve opening time is provided, and in the second switching state, a corresponding second valve opening time.

[0021] In these two switching states, the pneumatic connection to be actuated in the other switching state is preferably ventilated by the combination valve, so that, for example, during the forward movement on the side of the projectile proximal to the applicator, approximately ambient pressure prevails and, in contrast to the conventional procedure with a counterpressure chamber, there is no dynamic pressure that increases from collision to collision.

[0022] The combination valve optionally has a third switching state, in which both pneumatic connections are (simultaneously) pressurized with the pneumatic supply pressure. In this third switching state, the overlap between the first switch-on time and the second switch-on time occurs. Therefore, when the second switch-on time begins during the first switch-on time (or vice versa), this refers to the combination valve switching over in the variant with the combination valve. The same applies to the end of the first switch-on time while the second switch-on time is still active (or vice versa).

[0023] Even when using two separate valves, at least one of the two valves is preferably a "two-way valve," which accordingly performs ventilation unless it is switched to apply pneumatic pressure. However, other switching states are not excluded, and the valve is not necessarily limited to exactly two switching states.

[0024] By the way, venting refers to a pneumatically conductive connection to the outside atmosphere or a reference pressure volume that essentially corresponds to it. It is therefore not a deliberate delay in the discharge of gas under excess pressure, in the sense of throttling.

[0025] As an alternative to venting via the combination valve or the two-way valves just mentioned, the device could also have a certain degree of pneumatic leakage and, in the absence of pneumatic pressure, perform a throttled venting process in a kind of creeping fashion. However, this option is less preferred.

[0026] Preferably, the length of the second activation period is varied. Preferably, the end time of the second activation period, measured from the point of collision, is kept constant during control, and accordingly, only the start time of the second activation period is varied during control, e.g., because the return of the projectile is essentially the same.

[0027] In addition to the previously mentioned possibility of an overlap time between the first and second activation times, the opposite is also possible, i.e., a gap time between the end of the first and the beginning of the second activation time. This can (but does not have to) be variable. For example, such a gap time could occur before the projectile impacts the applicator, with the projectile being accelerated during the first activation time, "flying on" largely force-free during the gap time (apart from friction), and then decelerating slightly before impact due to counterpressure during the second activation time. The same applies to a beginning of the second activation time with or after impact.In particular, the cases can also occur "mixed", i.e. there can be control states with overlap time (including zero) and those with gap time (also including zero, which is equivalent to an overlap time of zero).

[0028] In the simplest case, the pneumatic device can have a connection for supply from a pneumatic line network, e.g., in a hospital, or from a compressed gas cylinder. However, a pneumatic compressor is preferred, which makes the device according to the invention location-independent and more mobile than a compressed gas cylinder. Pneumatic compressors are already known in connection with such devices. However, the invention offers the special aspect of not necessarily having to change the supply pressure in different control states with different projectile impact velocities. In other words, the compressor can run at the same speed in such different control states.

[0029] Of course, this can simplify compressor control, especially if it always runs at the same speed when switched on. Furthermore, the compressor can be operated near or at its maximum efficiency (in terms of speed). Furthermore, it is possible to adapt noise reduction measures, such as a dampening compressor mount or a sound-insulating enclosure, to the vibration behavior of the compressor at a constant speed.

[0030] A special design option of the invention lies in the ability to directly and quickly influence the impact physics between the projectile and the applicator, particularly the impact velocity and thus the momentum upon impact, simply by changing the valve opening times or durations. Compared to changing the supply pressure, this option is particularly fast, so that in an iterative operating state, the impact velocity / momentum of the combined forward and backward movement can, in principle, be changed from one impact process to the next. The state of the art does not allow for such rapid and free influence.

[0031] Typical impact velocities, even under less rapidly changing or unchanging conditions, are in the range between 2 m / s and 30 m / s. For impact physics, the impact impulse is particularly important, which for typical projectile masses between 1 g and 10 g, preferably between 2 g and 5 g, can thus range from 2 gm / s to 300 gm / s, preferably between 10 gm / s and 150 gm / s.

[0032] In a special embodiment, the device has a measuring device that can measure the passage of the projectile at a point along its path of travel. This measuring device can be coupled to the control device. This allows, for example, the passage of the projectile shortly before impact or virtually as it impacts the applicator to be recorded, so that the activation times (particularly with regard to their start and end) can be adjusted accordingly to the final time of impact.

[0033] Such detection can be achieved optically, for example, using a light barrier or the like, but preferably inductively using a measuring coil. This can detect the projectile using residual magnetism or purely inductively (by changing the stray inductance).

[0034] In the following, the invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments, whereby the individual features can also be essential to the invention in other combinations within the scope of the claims.

[0035] In detail, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a device according to the invention, with a central housing part omitted for clarity; Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section through the device from Figure 1 opposite Figure 1 right-left reversed position; Figure 3 a schematic diagram of the handpiece with an associated base unit; Figure 4 a sequence of schematic time course diagrams 4a) to e) to explain the mode of operation; Figure 5 a schematic representation of a combination valve to explain an alternative embodiment to the Figures 1 and 2 ; Figure 6 a sequence of schematic time course diagrams 6a) to f) to explain further control states in addition to Figure 4 ; Figure 7 shows a further schematic time-course diagram to explain the periodic operation; Figure 8 shows a sequence of schematic time-course diagrams 8a) to c) to further explain the operation; Figure 9 shows a recurring sequence of two different projectile speed levels in direct succession, with a high-speed pulse being followed directly by two low-speed pulses; Figure 10 shows a control sequence for the activation of the valves V1 and V2 according to the Figure 9 shown sequence of two different projectile speed levels; Figure 11 a higher temporal detail of the first 300 ms from the control sequence of Figure 10 .

[0036] Figure 1shows a handpiece of a device according to the invention in perspective view with pneumatic valves pointing forward-left, namely a first valve 1 and a second valve 2. On the right you can see a pneumatic supply connection 3 and on the left two screw rings 4 and 5, each knurled on the outside for easier handling, for holding the applicator 6, which is explained in more detail below. This is in Figure 1 on the far left with its patient-facing surface just visible and otherwise in Figure 2 shown. It could also be constructed in several parts.

[0037] In the middle area of ​​the device Figure 1one can see a plurality of tubes running in the transverse direction, the middle one with the reference number 7 containing and guiding the projectile 8, which can be seen in section in Figure 2. In front of this, one can see two parallel pneumatic connecting pipes 9 and 10 between the two valves 1 and 2, wherein the pipe 9 serves to supply a pressurization to the second valve 2 and the pipe 10 conversely serves to vent this second valve 2 via an outlet provided at the first valve 1. This plurality of pipes is in this embodiment of a Figure 1 surrounded by the casing cover 11 shown by the line below the tube 10 and the two lines above the projectile guide tube 7. This casing cover 11 runs in Figure 1 in the rear area and covers only a part of the circumference. It is designed at its respective axial edges, similar to a beading, by a rounded inward fold, which is easy to grip. Figure 1indicated at the upper edge. The housing cover 11 can therefore serve as a handle during practical handling. The spacer 13 stabilizes the structure and mechanically connects the two ends of the handpiece.

[0038] A flexible compressed air supply line leading from a pneumatic compressor to the device (see 51 in Figure 3 ) is not shown here and is to be connected to the already mentioned connection 3. Analogously, an electronic control line (52 in Figure 3 ) from an external control to valves 1 and 2 is not shown, which can be designed in the same way as the compressed air supply line.

[0039] Figure 2shows a longitudinal section along an imaginary central longitudinal axis of the aforementioned cylindrical shape of the entire device, which is also a central longitudinal axis of the projectile guide tube 7. To illustrate the dimensions: The length of the projectile guide tube 7 in this embodiment is 145.5 mm and the remaining illustration in Figure 2 is to scale. In this projectile guide tube, the projectile is 8 in Figure 2shown on the right and thus in contact with the applicator 6, which is held by the described screw ring 4 and 5 in a manner known per se. The applicator 6 is elastically mounted in the axial direction by a bellows-like elastomer ring 14 and pneumatically sealed by a further elastomer ring 12. Alternatively, a device structure with regard to the applicator 6 and its holder and seal according to, for example, EP 2 529 679 (also independent of the cap shown there) or EP 2 095 843 (also independent of the ceramic material discussed there) is also possible and preferred.

[0040] Figure 2shows on the left an inner channel 21, which connects the pneumatic connection 3 to the first valve 1. The first valve 1 can therefore switch a supply pressure present at the pneumatic connection 3, depending on the control, to a radial channel 22, which opens below a damper element 23 and is thus connected to the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7. The projectile is thus acted upon or accelerated towards the applicator 6 via this channel 22 during an initial activation time. Independently of this, the pneumatic supply pressure is passed on to the second valve 2 via the channel 24 and the tube 10.

[0041] In the second alternative switching position, the channel 22 and thus also the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 are divided between the distal end (in Figure 2 left) and the projectile 8 ventilated.

[0042] In the second valve 2, which is basically constructed mirror-symmetrically to the first valve 1, the pneumatic supply pressure applied via the tube 10 can alternatively be passed radially upwards via the channel 25 to a volume surrounding the projectile guide tube 7 (in Figure 2 as a slot above and below the tube 7), which leads from the connection of the channel 25 to the right, i.e. in the direction of the applicator 6, and there is connected between the applicator 6 and the proximal end of the projectile guide tube 7 to the inner volume of the projectile guide tube 7 (from the Figure 2The pneumatic supply pressure can thus be switchably applied to the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 between the applicator 6 and the projectile 8 via the channel 25. However, in this example, the pneumatic connection is somewhat poorer than on the opposite side of the projectile guide tube 7 due to a smaller effective opening cross-section, so that delays become noticeable earlier or more severely here at higher air flow velocities (higher frequencies, higher pressures).

[0043] Alternatively, the second valve 2 in the other switching position can block the connection of the internal volume of the tube 10 to it and ventilate the channel 25 and thus the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 to the right of the projectile 8, thus connecting it to the outside atmosphere via a pneumatically highly conductive connection.

[0044] The two valves 1 and 2 can therefore apply pneumatic pressure to the projectile from both sides, independently of each other and thus simultaneously or alternately, or can ventilate the interior of the projectile guide tube 7 on both sides.

[0045] The reference number 30 in Figure 2denotes a ring-shaped permanent magnet at the distal end of the movement path of the projectile 8 (coinciding with the length of the projectile guide tube 7) relative to the applicator 6. With this magnet 30, the projectile 8, constructed of ferromagnetic material, can be easily fixed at this distal end of the movement path. By applying pressure to one side using the valve 2, the projectile can also be returned to this position and optionally also held there, particularly at the start of operation or in the case of a non-ferromagnetic projectile. In this respect, the permanent magnet 30 can optionally be omitted, especially if the reflections explained below are to be enabled at this distal end of the movement path even at low impact velocities of the projectile 8.

[0046] 31 denotes a point at which the passage of projectile 8 through the corresponding point of the travel path could be detected using a measuring coil, with this point being relatively close to applicator 6. In the simplest case, a slight residual magnetism of projectile 8 is utilized here, but one could of course also detect and evaluate the change in the inductance of coil 31 using alternating current. The collision of projectile 8 with applicator 6 can also be determined using a microphone or motion sensor in the experimental setup. Furthermore, the impact velocity of projectile 8 can be determined in the experimental setup, for example, using two light barriers positioned just in front of applicator 6.

[0047] Figure 3 shows a block diagram with the Figures 1 and 2The device shown in the top right-hand corner is designated summarily by the reference numeral 40. This device 40 is a hand-held, mobile handpiece, as is already known from relevant devices in the prior art. It is connected via two lines 51 and 52 to a base station 50, which contains a pneumatic compressor 53 and a controller 54. The compressor 53 is connected to the handset 40 via line 51, namely a pneumatic flexible hose line, and the controller 54 is connected via the electrical line 52 (optionally integrated with the line 51), via which the controller can access the two valves 1 and 2 mentioned above and supply them with power. Communication with the handpiece 40 can also take place via line 52, in particular if a controller or part of the controller is additionally provided there.

[0048] The controller 54 also controls the compressor 53 with regard to its speed and, of course, its switching on and off. Like the compressor 53, it is powered by a power supply 55. A pressure control or control valve that influences the speed can also be integrated into the compressor 53. Furthermore, the controller 54 is connected to a display 56, which can be built into the base unit 50 or implemented separately. The base unit 50 is operated via a touch-sensitive display 56 and / or via a button arrangement not shown here.

[0049] The user can thus control the function of the device 40 using such buttons and, in any case, using the display 56, with the control 54 specifying, in particular, the opening and closing times and thus also the opening durations of the two valves 1 and 2. Partial tasks of the control 54 can also be integrated into the handpiece 40, particularly with regard to the control of valves 1 and 2.

[0050] For a basic understanding of the control of the two valves, reference can be made to the older patent EP 2 213 273 B1. The embodiment therein corresponds largely to the above explanations and the Figures 1 and 2with the exception of the existence of the second valve 2 and the omission of the counterpressure chamber. Furthermore, in the cited embodiment, a specific valve opening time of the sole valve there is assumed at a specific pressure, whereas the projectile acceleration in the present case is variable due to the proportion of the first valve opening time, even outside the overlap time and thus even at a constant pressure. For the following explanations, a pressure of 4 bar can be assumed as an example. This results in the following example table of measured values: Table of values Projectile speed [m / s] 10 12 14 16 18 Opening time of valve 1 [ms] 0 0 0 0 0 Closing time of valve 1 [ms] 13 13 13 13 13 Opening time of valve 2 [ms] 2.6 3 3.7 5 7.1 Closing time of valve 2 [ms] 18 18 18 18 18 Switch-on time valve 2 [ms] 15.4 15 14.3 13 10.9 Overlap time [ms] 10.4 10 9.3 8 5.9 Time of impact [ms] 19.4 18.7 18.0 17.3 16.6

[0051] Figure 4shows a sequence of five individual schematic time-course diagrams (4a) to 4e) corresponding to the table above, in which the curve labeled T1 represents the opening and closing process of the first valve 1, and the curve labeled T2 represents the opening and closing process of the second valve T2. The raised part of the curve thus corresponds to the first / second switching time.

[0052] In comparison, it can be seen that the first switch-on time for all five control states on the (arbitrary) time axis in the horizontal direction starts at 0 ms and ends at 13 ms. In contrast, the second switch-on time shifts with respect to its start from 2.6 ms in the beginning to Figure 4a ) gradually up to 7.1 ms in Figure 4e), whereas the second on-time ends at 18 ms in all five representations. The second on-time is therefore variable in terms of its start and duration. Furthermore, there is an overlap time in all control states, namely from approximately 3 ms to 13 ms in Figure 4a ) up to about 7 ms to 13 ms in Figure 4e ), whereby this overlap time decreases gradually, corresponding to the increasingly delayed start of the second activation time. Thus, in all five control states, the pneumatic actuation by the second valve 2 is also active with regard to the deceleration of the projectile 8.

[0053] In the Figure 4In the cases shown, impact velocities of the projectile 8 on the applicator 6 are realized at (in this order from a) to e)) 10 m / s, 12 m / s, 14 m / s, 16 m / s, and 18 m / s. This corresponds to impulses of 30 gm / s to 54 gm / s for a projectile mass of 3 g. The opening time of valve 1 is constant at 13.0 ms. The closing time of the second valve also remains constant at 18 ms.

[0054] Strictly speaking, the Figures 4a) to e) show the electrical control times of both valves 1 and 2, i.e., the output signals of control unit 54. Valves 1 and 2 are spring-loaded solenoid valves that open purely magnetically and close due to the force of the tensioned spring when the magnet is no longer acted upon. Accordingly, the movements of the valve body are slightly delayed compared to the control signals shown, by an estimated 4 ms when opening and 2 ms when closing. The overlap times are therefore actually approximately 2 ms shorter than shown.

[0055] With a so-called pilot valve with pneumatic support during opening, the situation would be qualitatively comparable.

[0056] In Figure 4a ) (of course when the projectile movement starts at the left end of the movement path in Figure 2at 0 ms), the collision with the applicator occurs approximately at the end of the second opening time, i.e. at approximately 19 ms, whereby this collision time shifts further and further to the left in the following figures and in Figure 4e ) is approximately 16 ms to 17 ms, i.e., rather within the second opening time. The projectile velocities measured (optically in a test setup) are between 10 m / s in Figure 4a ) and 18 m / s in Figure 4e ) and are thus in a ratio of 1:1.8.

[0057] One can simply imagine that the projectile is accelerated linearly over time before the second activation time and then continues to move at approximately the reached speed (neglecting pneumatic flow effects and projectile friction); in fact, the projectile speed will probably increase somewhat less than linearly over time and, in an almost force-free state, will decrease slightly due to friction during the overlap time. Furthermore, in each of the illustrated cases, there is a final phase in which the projectile 8 is decelerated by the pneumatic application of the second valve. This deceleration differs only slightly in the individual illustrations (namely in the Figures 4d ) and 4e ) compared to the previous ones) as the collision time moves slightly into the second valve opening time.

[0058] In the individual representations, the overlap time always occurs before the collision, but varies in length and thus influences the collision speed. The second opening time also occurs entirely or largely before the collision. This is not a problem because the collision itself, in the sense of the impact between a typically less massive projectile and a more massive applicator, is repelled in the sense of momentum conservation. Strictly speaking, the remainder of the second activation time after the end of the first activation time decelerates the projectile to varying degrees because, due to the variability of the overlap time, the moving projectile is captured at different locations along the path of travel and at different speeds (at the beginning of deceleration) in the different representations.

[0059] Of course, the timing could be adjusted so that the overlap period ends approximately at the time of the collision. In particular, this could be achieved by determining the time of the collision using the Figure 2 The already illustrated possibility of a measuring coil 31 in the vicinity of the applicator 6 can be used. If the collision time is to be relatively exactly at the end of the overlap time (or at another fixed point), the timing scheme would be somewhat more complicated because the first switch-on time would have to be ended at different times (from Figure 4a ) to Figure 4e) always earlier). However, the speed of the projectile movement, especially the return movement, could be increased. At higher projectile speeds, it might also be interesting to set the end of the second activation time differently and earlier with increasing projectile speed in order to achieve an even higher repetition frequency range.

[0060] Of course, in another embodiment with a "combination valve" one can create very similar conditions as in Figure 4 shown in diagrams a) to e), but the overlap time would then mean a different switching state of the valve. Such a combination valve is shown in Figure 5 shown schematically. The letter K denotes the combination valve, which accordingly controls the two valves 1 and 2 from the Figures 1 and 2Two lines V1 and V2 are shown on the right and left, of which V1 has a connection to the left side (according to Figure 2 ) of the projectile guide tube 7, e.g., via the channel section 22 (analogous to the first valve 1). Accordingly, the right line V2 means a connection to the right side of the projectile guide tube 7 (analogous to the second valve 2), e.g., via the channel section 25.

[0061] The upper line is in Figure 5 with the keyword "pressure supply" and the symbol "1" (not to be confused with the reference symbol 1) for the first valve; similarly, the lower line connection is labeled with the keyword "ambient pressure" and the symbol "0" within the figure, thus indicating a ventilation opening.

[0062] In the combination valve K there is a symbolically represented slide S, which moves in the vertical direction (relative to Figure 5) can be moved between four different switching positions. The top one shows how the Figure 5 As shown, port V1 is pressurized and port V2 is pressurized with pneumatic supply pressure. In the third position from the top, the reverse is true, and in the currently activated second position from the top, both ports V1 and V2 are pressurized. Finally, the lowest position shows simultaneous pressurization of both ports V1 and V2.

[0063] One could therefore imagine a combination valve K constructed in this or a similar way instead of the two individual valves 1 and 2 from the exemplary embodiment in the Figures 1 and 2 present, whereby the remaining explanations and in particular the Figures 3 and 4 apply mutatis mutandis to this as well.

[0064] Because the impact speed of the projectile 8 can be controlled solely by switching the two valves 1 and 2, the pneumatic compressor 53 ( Figure 3 ) at a given fixed operating frequency, where it has maximum efficiency. Furthermore, the pneumatic compressor can be particularly effectively insulated against vibration and noise at a given operating frequency.

[0065] In principle, the control device 54 can vary the impact velocity and also the time interval between collisions between the projectile 8 and the applicator 6 from one individual event to the next. It can therefore influence the impact physics significantly faster and more variably and, in particular, is not tied to periodic events.

[0066] Figure 6 shows in the individual representations a) to c) similar schematic time course diagrams as Figure 4, but with a time interval between the activation of valve 1 represented in the solid line below from the Figures 1 and 2 and the control of valve 2 shown in the dashed line above. In Figure 6a ) there is a relatively short activation pulse for valve 1, which accelerates the projectile and then, after the end of this initial activation time, continues to "fly" for a significant part of the travel distance without further pneumatic pressure. In contrast to the Figure 4 However, during the overlap times shown, both sides of the pipe interior are ventilated (and not pressurized) during this movement phase.

[0067] After a certain time, a Figure 6a) symbolically drawn collision with the applicator and relatively shortly thereafter (in addition to the already indicated return movement of the projectile due to this collision alone) to a returning pneumatic pulse as a result of the second activation time according to the dashed line in Figure 6a ). This returns the projectile to its original position and makes it available for a new cycle.

[0068] In the individual diagrams b) and c), the explanation applies in principle in the same way, with the first activation time being gradually extended and thus the interval between the first and second activation times being gradually shortened. Consequently, the collision time moves slightly to the left, which is symbolically represented. Accordingly, the projectile hits the applicator with increasing speed.

[0069] In all three diagrams a) to c), the switching time of the second valve is after the collision and is not variable in these three diagrams (considered individually). In the first two control states in Figure 6a ) and b) the greater part of the distance time is before the collision, in the third case c) after it.

[0070] In the Figures 6d ) to f) is, in contrast to the Figures 6a ) to c) the length of the first switch-on time was left unchanged (and corresponds Figure 6b )). In contrast to the first three representations, however, the second activation time is variable and a part of the second activation time lies before the collision, namely in case d) the majority, in case e) approximately half and in case f) only a very small part. One can imagine the representation as a continuation Figure 6b ), in which the second activation time is completely after the collision, but this is not particularly important now.

[0071] These images illustrate another way of controlling the speed of the projectile during collision. Figure 6d ) the projectile is similar to Figure 6b ) is pneumatically accelerated throughout the first activation time, but then, in contrast to case b), flies force-free for only a relatively short time, before being decelerated by an opposing pneumatic pressure due to the start of the second activation time (dashed line above). Since in case d) the deceleration time roughly corresponds to the acceleration time and the same pressure level can be assumed, the projectile impacts the applicator at a minimal speed and is then propelled back by the remainder of the second activation time.

[0072] In cases e) and f), the interval between the two activation times is longer and thus the proportion of the second activation time before the collision is gradually smaller, which leads to an increasing projectile speed at the collision despite the first activation time remaining unchanged.

[0073] In this respect, you have to get a control (according to Figure 3 ) to represent the control states according to the partial representations in Figure 4 and further control states according to the partial representations just explained in Figure 6 In both cases, the projectile speed during the collision can be influenced by valve switching times at constant pressure, whereby, as already explained, with the exception of the individual illustrations in Figure 6a ) to c) otherwise the second switch-on time is variable between the different control states.

[0074] Figure 7shows approximately a sequence of three processes corresponding to Figure 6f ). The projectile is returned to its initial position by the dashed second activation times, and is then accelerated back towards the applicator by the subsequent first activation time. This figure is intended only to illustrate the possible periodicity of control states, which of course also applies analogously to the other partial representations in the Figures 4 and 6 Furthermore, one can imagine that the successive processes can have deviations from each other, so that the collision process can be changed quickly and freely from one repetition to the next.

[0075] Figure 8shows a sequence of three individual schematic time-course diagrams 8a) to c), in which the curve labeled T1 represents the opening and closing process of the first valve 1, and the curve labeled T2 represents the opening and closing process of the second valve T2. The raised part of the curve thus corresponds to the first and second switching times, respectively. Compared to the time-course diagrams from Figure 4 Here, the second valve is opened according to curve T2 before the first valve according to curve T1. By varying the overlap between the two activation times, the reflection at the distal end of the movement path occurs earlier or later, as shown on the horizontal axis in the three figures. In this example, both activation times are of the same length (when comparing the three individual representations with each other). However, the second activation time shifts from Figure 8a) to Figure 8b ) and then to Figure 8c ) relative to the first activation time, so that the overlap time decreases. Because the part of the second valve opening time (before the overlap time) that is effective for the re-acceleration is Figure 8c ) larger than in Figure 8b ) and is larger there than in Figure 8a ), the projectile velocity upon reflection at the distal end is correspondingly higher. Thus, after reflection at the distal end, the projectile moves back towards the applicator at a correspondingly higher speed. Furthermore, the portion of the first valve opening time (after the overlap time) that is effective for the corresponding additional acceleration is also larger, as can be seen from the comparison of the Figures 8a ) to c) so that the collision speed when colliding with the applicator of Figure 8a ) to Figure 8b ) and finally to Figure 8c ) increases for two reasons.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a recurring sequence of pulses with two different projectile velocity ranges (at impact) that are in the Figure 9 are designated by the reference symbols H and L. By varying the overlap time and separation time, the performance of the control system can be demonstrated here as an example. For each pulse with a projectile collision speed approximately in the H range, there are two pulses with a projectile collision speed approximately in the L range. Figure 9 In particular, it demonstrates that the collision conditions can vary significantly from one collision to the next, in this case by approximately a factor of 3 in collision speed. The fluctuations within the ranges H and L are unintentional and tolerance-related scatter (these are real measured values).

[0077] Figure 10shows an example of the control sequence for the valves V1 and V2 in their temporal sequence to achieve the projectile velocity sequences shown in Figure 9. Different overlaps and spacing of pulses relative to each other can be seen.

[0078] Figure 11 triggers the sequence of the first pulses Figure 10 more precisely in time, so that a repeating sequence is shown here individually. Here, it is more clearly seen that the valve opening times between V1 and V2 change their relative spacing and overlap, and that the second switch-on time changes.

[0079] The above explanations based on the Figures 4 and 6 to 11 refer to the Figures 1 to 3They can also be transferred to other devices and dimensions based on simple estimates of the projectile motion. In particular, the reversal points of the projectile motion are easily accessible, for example, via the aforementioned measuring coil, possibly an analog measuring coil at the distal end of the motion path, or by recording the collisions via a microphone. On this basis, meaningful estimates can be made based on the above descriptions.

[0080] Alternatively, you can proceed as follows: You specify a desired operating frequency and a desired supply pressure for the two valves and also specify, for example, that both valves open for a constant duration, e.g. for 40% of the inverse of the specified frequency. You can then set up the control system so that the valves open and close exactly in phase at a starting time. In this state, stable movement will not occur because the projectile is pressurised on both sides at the same time or is not pressurised on either side. On this basis, you can then gradually change the offset between opening times in both directions, i.e. gradually open (and close) the second valve slightly earlier or slightly later than the first valve. From a certain time offset, i.e. from a certain phase shift, the projectile will reach a stable oscillation state, which can be achieved, for example,With the aforementioned microphone detection, the collisions at both ends of the movement path can be determined. Furthermore, the intensity of the collision with the applicator can then be determined, and the described phase shift can be considered as a control parameter for the intensity. In this form, a calibration curve can be determined.

[0081] In addition, for a given vibration state determined in this way, the phase shift can be kept constant and the second valve opening duration (and possibly or instead also the first) can be changed step by step.

[0082] In individual cases, it may be that insufficient pressure was specified for the desired frequency, meaning that even with "antiphase" control of the two valves, no oscillation state with collisions at the ends of the travel path is created. In this case, either the pressure must be increased slightly or the frequency reduced accordingly.

[0083] Analogously, one can of course also empirically approach suitable operating conditions in other ways. Finally, the motion behavior of the projectile can, of course, be simulated at least approximately mathematically, and empirical experiments can then be conducted based on the results of such simulations.

Claims

1. Apparatus for treatment of the human or animal body with mechanical pressure waves, the apparatus comprising: - a projectile guided in the apparatus along a movement path, - an applicator (6) at one end of the movement path, - pneumatic means for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) for the purpose of movement along the movement path, wherein the projectile (8) is adapted for striking onto the applicator (6) for generating the mechanical pressure waves, which pneumatic means has a double valve means (1, 2) for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction towards the applicator (6) during a first activation time and for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the reverse direction during a second activation time and a control means (54) for controlling the double valve means (1, 2), characterized in that the apparatus is adapted to vary the second activation time.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the double valve means (1, 2) has a first valve (1) for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction towards the applicator (6) and a second valve (2) for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the reverse direction, which valves can preferably be controlled independently of one another by the control means (54).

3. Apparatus according to claim 2, in which at least one of the two valves (1, 2) is a two-way valve which applies pneumatic pressure to a pneumatic volume between itself and the projectile (8) in a first switching position during the respective activation time for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) and which ventilates this pneumatic volume in a second switching position.

4. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, adapted to vary the second activation time for controlling an impact speed of the projectile (8) upon impact.

5. Apparatus according to claim 4, adapted to start the second activation time after a movement start of the projectile (8) in the forward direction towards the applicator (6) and before impact and to end it after impact and to control the impact speed by varying the start time of the second activation time.

6. Apparatus according to claim 4 or 5, adapted to use the second activation time for a return movement of the projectile (8) and to allow it to continue beyond the new start of a movement of the projectile (8) in the forward direction towards the applicator (6).

7. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the second activation time is varied during a return movement of the projectile (8).

8. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the control means (54) is adapted to vary the length of the second activation time during control.

9. Apparatus according to claim 8, in which the control means (54) is adapted to maintain the end of the second activation time constant during control.

10. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, adapted to allow the first and the second activation time to overlap in an overlap time.

11. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pneumatic means comprises a pneumatic compressor (53), wherein the apparatus is adapted to allow the compressor (53) in the activated state to run at different control states with different impact speeds of the projectile (8) at the same rotational frequency, preferably in principle in the activated state to run at always the same rotational frequency.

12. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, adapted such that, in the case of a movement of the projectile (8) from a location of the movement path distal from the applicator (6) to the applicator (6) and back, the time period of the overlap time attributed to the forward movement is greater than the time period attributed to the return movement.

13. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projectile (8) can be moved with an impact pulse of between 2 gm / s and 300 gm / s upon impact onto the applicator (6).

14. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, adapted to vary, in an iterative operating state with directly successive forward movements of the projectile (8) for impact onto the applicator (6) and return movements, the impact speed and / or the time duration of the combined forward and return movement from one to the next such combined forward and return movement.

15. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, having a measuring means (31) for detecting a passage and / or a speed of the projectile (8) at a point of the movement path, which measuring means (31) is coupled to the control means (54).