Massage apparatus

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a massage apparatus (10) comprising a massage head (1) and a control system (2), the massage head (1) being intended to be applied to the skin of a subject, wherein the control system is configured to control the massage head (1) such that a negative pressure is generated in the massage head (1) according to a predetermined negative-pressure profile, and wherein the predetermined negative-pressure profile corresponds to a negative-pressure function representing a variation over time of the negative pressure generated in the massage head (1), the negative-pressure function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

Description

DESCRIPTION TITLE: Massage device TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The technical field of the invention is that of massage devices, and in particular massage devices comprising a massage head and a control system configured to control the massage head so that a vacuum is generated in the massage head. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Various massage techniques are used depending on the treatments to be performed. Generally speaking, they all involve applying constraints to the subject using pressure and / or movement and / or pinching.

[0003] There are many types of devices to make the masseur's job easier.

[0004] Among the various existing devices, it was considered to use equipment using a simple mechanical action, for example by means of assemblies comprising balls or balls mounted on a support box, possibly allowing the distribution of a treatment product (cream, liquid).

[0005] Massage devices have also been proposed that implement suction of the subject's skin. Such suction makes it possible to form a skin fold inside an internal chamber of a massage head. Mechanical actuators such as rollers or valves then exert actions, for example pressure or friction on this skin fold, to induce a predefined massage effect on the subject. Such a solution is for example described in the applicant's patent EP3151805.

[0006] Current massage devices allow skin suction in two modes:

[0007] - a so-called “continuous” mode, in which suction is generated by applying a constant depression in the massage head, the power of the suction being chosen by the operator; and

[0008] - a so-called “alternating” mode, comprising a succession of aspirations and “released” thanks to an alternating succession of high and low depressions in the massage head.

[0009] Figures 1a and 1b illustrate such modes known from the state of the art. In particular, Figure 1a represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in continuous mode, and Figure 1b represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in alternating mode.

[0010] In these two figures, the abscissa axis represents time and the ordinate axis represents the depression generated within the massage head. In continuous mode, shown in Figure 1 a, suction is applied to the subject's skin by generating a constant depression, equal to a fixed pressure value PF and possibly selected beforehand by the operator, in the massage head. In alternating mode, shown in Figure 1 b, a succession of suctions and releases is applied to the subject's skin. For this, suction phases, during which a depression having a value pi is generated in the massage head, alternate with phases during which no depression is generated in the massage head (i.e. the surface of the subject's skin is at atmospheric pressure). In the example of Figure 1 b, the duration ATi of the depression phases and the duration ATo of the phases without depression are equal, but they can be different.Also, alternatively to the example in Figure 1 b, it is possible to alternate between depression phases equal to a first value pi for a duration ATi and depression phases equal to a second value po < pi for a duration ATo (in the example in Figure 1 b, the low value po is equal to 0, but this is not mandatory). The values ​​po and pi are fixed and can be selected beforehand by the operator (i.e. the subject who manipulates the massage device).

[0011] As mentioned above, both modes allow the subject's skin to be sucked in to form a skin fold inside the massage head. Mechanical actuators in the massage head, such as flaps or rollers, then massage the sucked skin.

[0012] These massage devices, although generally effective and providing very satisfactory results, do not yet allow the movements of a practitioner to be effectively reproduced.

[0013] The invention improves the situation. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The invention provides a solution to the problems mentioned above, by using the depression generated within the massage head not only to grasp the skin fold, but also to perform a massage function. The shape of the depression applied makes it possible to obtain specific physiological effects and in particular to reproduce manual massage gestures. In addition, the frequency of the depression applied makes it possible to access different depths of skin, and therefore offers massage possibilities superior to those of the devices of the prior art, and superior to those of a practitioner.

[0015] One aspect of the invention thus relates to a massage apparatus comprising a massage head and a control system, the massage head being intended to be applied to the skin of a subject, in which the control system is configured to control the massage head so that a depression is generated in the massage head according to a predetermined depression profile, in which the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head, said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

[0016] By "depression" is meant a negative pressure difference in the massage head compared to atmospheric pressure. In other words, the pressure inside the massage head is lower than atmospheric pressure, and the depression represents the (negative) difference between the pressure in the massage head and atmospheric pressure. Such a depression has the effect, when the massage head is applied against the subject's skin (on the surface thereof), of sucking the skin inside the massage head. In existing devices, this suction makes it possible to form a skin fold, which can then be worked (massaged) using mechanical actuators, such as valves or rollers. According to the present invention, this suction is no longer constant, and allows a massage effect of the skin fold according to a pattern defined by the shape of the curve of the applied depression, i.e. the applied depression profile.

[0017] By "depression profile" is meant the function (or, equivalently, its representative curve, i.e. its shape) representing the variations in the depression within the massage head over time. According to the present invention, this function is continuous (i.e. its representative curve does not exhibit a "drop-out", unlike, for example, the square wave function of Figure 1 b), periodic (i.e. its representative curve repeats with a given period) and non-constant. By "non-constant", it is meant that the function takes at least two different values ​​(in this case, an infinity of different values ​​since it is continuous) during a period.It is possible for the function to have plateaus or levels, that is to say that the function can be constant over a time interval strictly less than the period, but it cannot be constant over the entire period (unlike the function represented in Figure 1 a for example).

[0018] It is these variations over time in the vacuum function that make it possible to perform a vacuum massage function, which is not the case in existing devices (in which the massage function is only operated by the action of the rollers or valves).

[0019] In particular, by varying the frequency (equal to the inverse of the period of the depression function) of the applied depression profile, it is thus possible to reach different depths of the skin, and therefore to obtain different physiological effects depending on the selected frequency.

[0020] In embodiments, the depression function is a piecewise affine function or a sinusoidal function.

[0021] By "piecewise affine" it is understood that the curve is composed of straight line segments (increasing, constant or decreasing). It is recalled that in the context of the present invention, the function must be continuous, so there cannot be any "jump" at the junctions between the straight line segments.

[0022] By "sinusoidal" is meant a function whose representative curve presents sinusoidal variations. This category of functions therefore includes sine functions, but also cosine functions.

[0023] In other embodiments, the depression function corresponds to a concatenation of at least two portions of at least two respective basis functions, the at least two basis functions being chosen from: functions constants, affine or piecewise affine functions, sinusoidal functions and sigmoid functions.

[0024] By "concatenation" it is understood that the function is defined over several portions of the period, and that it has different expressions depending on the portions of the period (more precisely, the function follows a different expression over at least two portions). For example, the function can be a portion of a sinusoidal function connected to a constant function, itself connected to a sinusoidal function (identical or distinct from the first sinusoidal function). Here again, it is recalled that the function must be continuous, so there cannot be any jump in value at the junctions between the portions.

[0025] In embodiments, the control system is further configured to:

[0026] - storing a plurality of predefined depression profiles, each depression profile being associated with a respective physiological effect;

[0027] - receiving a selection of a physiological effect from among the plurality of physiological effects;

[0028] - select, from among the plurality of predefined depression profiles, the depression profile associated with the selected physiological effect;

[0029] wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the selected depression profile.

[0030] By "physiological effect" is meant the effect generated by the depression on the skin tissue when the massage head is applied against the subject's skin. Examples of physiological effects are, for example: firming, rolling, kneading, tapping, effleurage, friction, compression, smoothing, etc. A physiological effect can be a manual massage gesture (thus, the depression profile makes it possible to reproduce, by the depression thus generated, a manual massage gesture), but is not limited to this. A physiological effect more broadly refers to the way in which the skin reacts to the application of a depression (in particular what depths of skin are reached by the depression).

[0031] Indeed, depending on the depression profile applied, and in particular its shape and parameters (frequency, extreme values, etc.), physiological effects different can be obtained. Thus, it is possible to associate a given depression profile with a corresponding physiological effect. According to these embodiments, the operator can select the physiological effect he wishes to obtain, and the control system, upon receiving this selection, retrieves the corresponding depression profile and controls the massage head to apply the depression profile associated with the physiological effect selected by the operator.

[0032] It is noted that in the present application, the operator refers to the individual who manipulates the massage device, and the subject refers to the individual to whom the massage head is applied. The operator and the subject may be the same individual or two different individuals.

[0033] In embodiments, wherein the control system is further configured to:

[0034] - receive a set of parameters, the set of parameters including:

[0035] a parameter relating to a minimum depression value;

[0036] a parameter relating to a maximum depression value; and

[0037] a parameter relating to a period or frequency of depression;

[0038] - generate a depression profile from the set of parameters received;

[0039] wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the generated depression profile.

[0040] According to these embodiments, the operator sets the desired parameters, sends them to the control system, which thus generates the associated depression profile.

[0041] By "parameter relating to a maximum (resp. minimum) depression value" is meant any parameter linked to a maximum (resp. minimum) value of the depression profile. Such a parameter can be, for example, the value itself, but this is not mandatory. For example, it is possible to define labels (very low, low, medium, high, very high) associated with different values, and the subject can select one of these classes.

[0042] It is understood that the massage device can be configured to operate in the two preceding modes. The operator can thus have the possibility, on the same massage device according to the invention, either to select a physiological effect, or to set the parameters himself to generate a depression profile according to the parameters that he has set. The operator also has the possibility, if he has selected a particular physiological effect, to modify certain parameters (for example, to reduce the maximum depression value if the subject feels discomfort or pain). The operator can also have the possibility of selecting not a physiological effect, but a depression profile from a plurality of pre-recorded depression profiles.

[0043] The parameter set may further include at least one of:

[0044] - a parameter relating to a duty cycle ratio, the duty cycle ratio corresponding to a ratio between: a sum of a duration during which the depression function increases from the minimum value to the maximum value and a duration during which the depression function is equal to the maximum value; and the depression period;

[0045] - a parameter relating to a duration of a transition between a high plateau during which the depression function is equal to the maximum value and a low plateau during which the depression function is equal to the minimum value, or between a low plateau and a high plateau;

[0046] - a parameter relating to a number of sinusoidal waves added to a high plateau;

[0047] - a parameter relating to an amplitude of sinusoidal waves added to a high plateau.

[0048] In these embodiments, the depression profile may have high and / or low plateaus. A high plateau corresponds to a portion of the curve “around” the maximum value, and a low plateau corresponds to a portion of the curve “around” the minimum value. By “around”, it is understood that the portion may be constant, or sinusoidal around the extreme value. Indeed, a plateau may not be constant, but may have oscillations. For example, the profile of depression in Figure 5b exhibits constant plateaus, and the depression profile in Figure 5c exhibits sinusoidal “plateaus.”

[0049] Thus, in embodiments, each period of the depression function comprises a first portion increasing from a first value to a second value strictly greater than the first value, a second constant or sinusoidal portion, a third portion decreasing from the second value to the first value, and a fourth constant or sinusoidal portion.

[0050] When the second portion is constant, it is therefore equal to the second value. When the fourth portion is constant, it is therefore equal to the first value.

[0051] When the second portion is sinusoidal, it can be, for example, sinusoidal around the second value (i.e. have the second value as its average value), or have the second value as its maximum value, or have the second value as its minimum value.

[0052] When the fourth portion is sinusoidal, it can be, for example, sinusoidal around the first value (i.e. have the first value as its average value), or have the first value as its minimum value, or have the first value as its maximum value.

[0053] Such depression profiles include a portion of a curve connecting the minimum value to the maximum value (or vice versa), a high (or low) plateau, and a portion of a curve connecting the maximum value to the minimum value (or vice versa). A "transition" corresponds to the portion of the curve connecting the minimum value to the maximum value (or vice versa). For the sake of simplification, it is assumed that the duration of the rising transition (from a low plateau to a high plateau) and the duration of the falling transition (from a high plateau to a low plateau) are the same, but this is not mandatory. By "parameter relating to a duration of a transition", we therefore mean a parameter making it possible to determine the duration of the transition (i.e. the time interval corresponding to the transition portion, which is therefore strictly less than the period T of the depression function.)

[0054] The "cycle ratio" is defined here as the sum of the rise time from the minimum value to the maximum value and the plateau time high during which the function has the maximum value, divided by the period. By "parameter relating to a cycle ratio" is meant any parameter giving access to this value.

[0055] In embodiments, the depression function has a frequency between 0 Hz and 32 Hz.

[0056] This frequency range corresponds to the frequencies which produce the most interesting physiological effects in the context of a cosmetic treatment.

[0057] In particular, the frequency can be between 0 and 16 Hz. This frequency range allows access to the deeper layers of the skin.

[0058] In embodiments, the control system includes a suction device connected to the massage head by a suction conduit configured to generate suction, said suction generating a vacuum in the massage head.

[0059] In embodiments, the control system is configured to store a set of vacuum sequences, each vacuum sequence corresponding to a respective cosmetic treatment and comprising at least two distinct vacuum profiles to be executed consecutively, each vacuum profile of the vacuum sequence corresponding to a phase of the cosmetic treatment.

[0060] A "depression sequence" is understood to mean a sequence of depression profiles, possibly interspersed with constant or slotted depressions. Such a depression sequence allows for a complete cosmetic treatment (e.g., a firming abdominal massage). Each element of the sequence (different depression profiles, constant or slotted depressions) corresponds to a phase of the treatment (e.g., preparation, kneading, massage, firming).

[0061] Another aspect of the invention relates to a cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage apparatus comprising a massage head and a control system, the massage head being intended to be applied to a subject's skin, the method comprising:

[0062] - controlling, by the control system, the massage head so that a vacuum is generated in the massage head according to a predetermined vacuum profile;

[0063] wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head, said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

[0064] The invention and its various applications will be better understood by reading the following description and examining the accompanying figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0065] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the description, which may be read in conjunction with the figures. These figures are presented for information purposes only and in no way limit the invention.

[0066] Figure 1a shows the time evolution of the depression within the massage head in the continuous mode of the state of the art.

[0067] Figure 1 b represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in the alternating mode of the state of the art.

[0068] Figure 2 shows a massage device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0069] Figure 3 represents a cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0070] Figure 4 shows an exemplary control module in one embodiment of the invention.

[0071] Figures 5a, 5b and 5c represent three examples of depression profiles according to the invention.

[0072] Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d show four other examples of depression profiles according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a massage device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention. The massage device 10 comprises a massage head 1 (also called a treatment head) intended to be applied against the skin of a subject and a control system 2. The control system 2 is configured to control the massage head 1 so that the massage head generates a vacuum.

[0074] For example, the control system 2 may be an electropneumatic system comprising a control module 21 and a suction device 22 connected to the control module 21, the suction device 22 being connected to the massage head 1 by a suction conduit 3. The suction device 22 comprises a suction means (not shown) configured to generate suction, such as a pump, thereby causing a vacuum within the massage head 1. The control module 21 may thus be configured to send to the suction device 22 a control signal comprising a given vacuum profile, and upon receipt of this control signal, the suction device 22 may be configured to generate suction to generate, in the massage head 1, a vacuum corresponding to the vacuum profile of the control signal.

[0075] Thus, the control system 2 makes it possible to control a depression within the massage head 1 according to a given depression profile. A depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head 1. In the context of the present invention, said function is continuous (and preferably of class C 1, i.e. the function is continuous, differentiable and its derivative is continuous), periodic and non-constant. Examples of such vacuum profiles are provided in Figures 5a to 5c and Figures 6a to 6d, described in detail below. The vacuum profile may be provided to the control system 2 by a user interface 4, for example a set of buttons and / or a touch screen. For example, the user interface 4 may be connected to the control module 21, and the operator may select, via the user interface 4, a vacuum profile from a plurality of predefined vacuum profiles stored in the control module 21.

[0076] In embodiments, the control module 21 may store a plurality of predefined vacuum profiles. Each profile may be associated with a respective physiological effect (e.g., firming, palpate-roll, kneading, tapping, effleurage, friction, compression, smoothing, etc.). An operator can select, via the user interface 4, a depression profile from the plurality of recorded depression profiles, or a desired physiological effect from the plurality of physiological effects associated with the recorded depression profiles.

[0077] Alternatively or in addition, the operator can send to the control module 21, via the user interface 4, a set of parameters to generate a vacuum profile from these parameters. Upon receipt of these parameters, the vacuum profile can be generated within the control module 21, which then transmits to the suction device 22 a command to generate suction so that the vacuum generated in the massage head 1 follows the desired vacuum profile.

[0078] It is understood that the above two embodiments may be combined. For example, on a home screen of the user interface, the operator may be offered a choice between selecting a predefined vacuum profile and generating a vacuum profile from a set of parameters.

[0079] An example of a control module 21 is shown in Figure 4.

[0080] In this example, the control module 21 comprises a memory 211 for storing instructions allowing the transmission of a command to the suction device 22 upon receipt of a corresponding instruction via the user interface 4, and possibly depression profiles, which may, depending on the embodiments, be associated with respective physiological effects as detailed below.

[0081] The control module 21 further comprises a circuit 212. This circuit 212 may be, for example, a processor capable of interpreting instructions in the form of a computer program, an electronic card whose steps of the method of the invention are described in the silicon, or even a programmable electronic chip such as an FPGA chip (for “Field-Programmable Gate Array” in English).

[0082] The control module 21 comprises an input interface 213 for receiving an instruction relating to a depression profile or parameters relating to the depression to be applied, and an output interface 214 for providing a command to the suction device 22. As mentioned above, the control module 21 may be connected to a user interface 4 to receive a vacuum instruction or parameters. Alternatively, the user interface may be integrated with the control module 21. In these embodiments, the control module 21 may comprise input devices such as a screen (possibly touch-sensitive), a keyboard, a set of buttons, a touchpad, a microphone coupled to a voice control module, etc.

[0083] Referring again to Figure 2, the massage head 1 may comprise a roller arranged in an internal chamber of the massage head, to perform massage movements (for example of the palpate-roll type). The suction duct 3 may be connected to the internal chamber so as to establish a vacuum therein. The internal chamber is intended to be applied against the skin of a subject to be massaged to form a skin fold. The suction device 22 is therefore intended to generate a vacuum of the ambient air to suck the skin of the subject (and form a skin fold). More generally, the massage head may comprise at least one mechanical actuator, for example one or more motorized rollers and / or one or more valves, to perform the massage of the skin previously sucked into the internal chamber of the massage head 1 by the control system 2.In embodiments, the operator can adjust certain parameters, for example the speed and / or direction of rotation of the rollers or the flapping frequency, via the user interface 4.

[0084] As mentioned above, in the devices of the prior art, the depressions generated in the massage head 1 operate in two modes: a continuous mode (shown in Figure 1 a) and an alternating mode (shown in Figure 1 b). These two modes make it possible to form a skin fold, which can then be massaged via the mechanical actuators of the massage head 1.

[0085] With the vacuum profiles according to the present invention, the vacuum applied via the massage head 1 not only allows the skin to be lifted and thus the skin fold to be formed, as in the prior art, but it also contributes to massaging the skin, in the same way as mechanical actuators. This makes it possible to reproduce the manual gestures of a practitioner, or even to surpass them. Indeed, depending on the vacuum profiles applied, different skin depths can be reached and massaged according to varying amplitudes, which allows for treatments more targeted and more effective, but also more precise and more reproducible than a manual massage.

[0086] For example, by using a sinus-type depression profile, the capture of the skin fold is advantageously optimized to be carried out in a flexible manner and proportional to the action of the valve. Once the skin fold is captured, depression profiles presenting oscillations make it possible to work on the elasticity, tone and / or firmness of the skin. The massage function generated by such depression profiles is thus much more advanced, effective and targeted than when it is carried out solely by the mechanical actuators of the massage head.

[0087] In the present invention, the variation of depression applied to the skin makes it possible to massage different layers of skin and to have access to different depths of skin. In other words, this variation of depression makes it possible to perform an additional massage function compared to the massage function of the mechanical actuators. It is thus possible to envisage a massage solely by depression (suction) effect, without mechanical actuators.

[0088] Figure 3 shows a cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage device according to one embodiment of the invention. The steps of Figure 3 can be implemented by the control system 2.

[0089] In one embodiment, in a step 310, parameters relating to a desired depression are received by the control system 2, for example via the user interface 4 (which may be connected or integrated with the control system 2). In step 320, a depression profile may be generated by the control system 2 (for example, by the control module 21) according to the parameters received in step 310.

[0090] In another embodiment, depression profiles are stored in the control system 2 (for example in a memory of the control module 21). Each depression profile can be associated with a respective physiological effect. Thus, during a step 330, data relating to a physiological effect can be received by the control system 2. This data can be generated after receiving, via the user interface 4 (which can be connected or integrated with the control system 2), a selection of the physiological effect desired by the operator. For example, the data can be an identifier of the physiological effect. among the plurality of physiological effects associated with the plurality of recorded depression profiles. In step 320, the control system can thus retrieve the depression profile corresponding to the selected physiological effect.

[0091] Alternatively, the operator can directly select the desired depression profile. In this case, during step 330, data for selecting a depression profile from among the plurality of depression profiles can be received, and during step 340, the control system can retrieve the selected depression profile.

[0092] As mentioned above, the above embodiments are not mutually exclusive: on the same massage device 10, the operator can choose whether he wants to generate a depression profile from parameters that he sets (steps 310, 320) or whether he wants to use a depression profile already recorded (steps 330, 340).

[0093] Once the vacuum profile has been generated (step 320) or retrieved (step 340), the control system can control (step 350) the massage head so that a vacuum is generated in the massage head according to said vacuum profile. For example, the control module 21 can control a suction in the suction device 22 so that the suction thus generated in the suction device generates a vacuum within the massage head 4 which follows the vacuum profile generated or retrieved.

[0094] It is noted that the depression actually generated in the massage head 4 may differ from the desired depression profile. For example, there may be losses at the suction duct 3 or the massage head 4, which cause the depression in the massage head not to follow exactly the desired depression profile. In this sense, it is understood that according to the present invention, the depression profile is a “theoretical” or “ideal” profile.

[0095] Examples of depression profiles are now presented.

[0096] Figure 5a represents a “sine” type depression profile. The depression thus generated in the massage head is a function of the type: d(t) = A + B. sin(C. t), where t represents time, and A, B, C are real coefficients.

[0097] Coefficients A, B, C can be predefined or selected by the operator.

[0098] For example, the operator can set different parameters, including:

[0099] - a maximum value P max of depression;

[0100] - a minimum depression value Pmin;

[0101] - a period T or a frequency f = 1 / T of depression.

[0102] The depression profile can then be a function of the form:

[0103] The depression profile thus obtained has an oscillation of frequency f = 1 / T, between two extrema Pmin and Pmax.

[0104] Surprisingly, it was found, through collaborative testing with expert massage practitioners, that such a vacuum profile had a pumping effect on the skin. By adjusting the frequency, it is possible to act on different depths of the skin, and thus achieve different physiological effects.

[0105] It is understood that a depression profile similar to that of Figure 5a can be obtained from other functions. For example, by concatenating two portions of sigmoid functions (S-curves), one increasing and the other decreasing, we obtain a curve similar to the curve of a sine function over a period. By "concatenation", it is understood that the two portions of curves are connected (for example a first portion of increasing S-curve over an interval [0; T / 2] and a second portion of decreasing S-curve of the same amplitude as the increasing S-curve over an interval [T / 2; T]). The connection is made in such a way that the "concatenated" curve thus obtained is continuous (in the mathematical sense of the term).

[0106] In embodiments, the depression function is a continuous, periodic, and non-constant function, and each period of the depression function comprises a first strictly increasing portion from a first value to a second value strictly greater than the first value, a second constant or sinusoidal portion, a third strictly decreasing portion from the second value to the first value, and a fourth constant or sinusoidal portion.

[0107] The increasing (resp. decreasing) portion may be strictly increasing (resp. decreasing) and have an inflection point, for example at half the length of the portion considered. In particular, the increasing portion and / or the decreasing portion may be a portion of a sigmoid, sinusoidal, arctangent function, etc.

[0108] An example of a depression profile corresponding to such a depression function is shown in Figure 5b.

[0109] Figure 5b represents an “S-curve” type depression profile. The depression thus generated in the massage head is a function of the type:

[0110] where t represents time, P min represents a minimum depression value, P max represents a maximum depression value, SCurveUp represents an increasing sigmoid function going from P min to P max , SCurveDown represents a decreasing sigmoid function going from P max to P min , T sc corresponds to the transition time (i.e. the growth time from a low plateau to a high plateau, or the decrease time from a high plateau to a low plateau), T Pmax corresponds to the duration of a high plateau (i.e. the duration during which the depression is equal to the maximum power P max) and T Pmin corresponds to the duration of a high plateau (i.e. the duration during which the depression is equal to the maximum power P min ). The above formula thus represents the variation of the depression over the time interval [0; T]. The function can then be repeated to obtain a periodic function of period T = 2T SC + T Pmax + T Pmin .

[0111] In the example of Figure 5b, the duration T Pmax of a high plateau is equal to the duration T Pmin a low tray, but this is not mandatory.

[0112] The portion of the curve above is therefore the concatenation of an increasing sigmoid function over a time T sc , of a constant high depression P max (high plateau) for a time T Pmax , of a decreasing sigmoid function during a time T sc and a constant low depression P min (low plateau) for a time T Pmin .

[0113] The curve in Figure 5b can be defined by the following “minimal” parameter set (i.e. comprising a minimal number of parameters allowing the depression profile to be completely defined):

[0114] - minimum value P min of depression;

[0115] - maximum value P max of depression;

[0116] - period T = 2T SC + T Pmax + T Pmin or frequency f = 1 / T of the depression;

[0117] - duration T Pmax of a high plateau; and

[0118] - duration of the transition (Tse, which therefore corresponds to the duration of the portion of the S-shaped curve).

[0119] Rather than fixing the transition duration, it is possible to fix a parameter, called here "transition parameter", corresponding to the percentage of the complete period T that the transition duration T must represent sc. In other words, if S is the transition parameter (between 0% and 50%), the transition duration is: T sc = S x T.

[0120] Optionally, the transition parameter can be a discrete variable taking a finite and predetermined number of values. For example, the transition parameter can correspond to the number of tens of percentage of the period T to which the transition duration T corresponds sc . For example, if S = 4, this means that T sc represents 40% of the complete period T, i.e. T sc = 0.4 x T.

[0121] It is noted that the transition parameter above allows, from the period T or the frequency f , to find the value of the transition duration T sc . Any parameter thus making it possible to go back to the value of the transition duration T sc , generally called the "transition duration parameter", can be used.

[0122] Similarly, rather than defining the duration T Pmax from the top plate, it is possible to define a parameter, called here "cycle ratio", which corresponds to the percentage of the complete period T that the cumulative duration (T sc + T Pmax ) of rise and the high plateau. In other words, if RC is the cycle ratio (strictly between 0% and 100%), we have: RC = (T sc + T Pmax ) / T.

[0123] It is noted that knowledge of T (or f), T Pmax (or RC) and T sc (or S) allows to determine the duration of a low plateau T Pmin , and therefore of all the variables which intervene in the equation above defining the curve of Figure 5b.

[0124] Surprisingly, in tests conducted in collaboration with expert massage practitioners, it was found that such a depression profile had a "palpate-roll" effect. By adjusting the frequency, it is possible to act on different depths of the skin.

[0125] It is possible to add oscillations to the upper and / or lower plate of the depression profile in Figure 5b. An example of a depression profile obtained by adding oscillations to the upper plate is shown in Figure 5c.

[0126] Such a depression profile can be defined by a "minimal" parameter set including the minimal parameter set of the depression profile in Figure 5b, as well as two parameters specific to the oscillation added on the high plate:

[0127] - a discrete parameter Nosc corresponding to the number of oscillations (or “number of sinusoidal ripples”) on the upper plate (in the example of Figure 5c, this parameter is equal to 2); and

[0128] - a real parameter A corresponding to the amplitude of the oscillation.

[0129] For example, the oscillation can be a sine or cosine function, whose frequency is directly related to the number Nosc of oscillations on a high plateau. The amplitude A corresponds to the desired depression amplitude on the oscillation:

[0130] with f osc = N 0SC / T Pmax the frequency of oscillations and T osc = l / f osc the period of the oscillations. We have: f osc > f.

[0131] Thus, the curve shown in Figure 5c can be constructed by concatenating a portion of the increasing S-curve, a portion of the cosine (or sine) function above, and a portion of the decreasing S-curve. In other words, compared to Figure 5b, the high plateau is replaced by a portion of the sinusoidal curve.

[0132] In embodiments, oscillations could be added on the low plateaus in addition to or instead of the high plateaus. In these embodiments, the set of parameters defining the depression profile may include a discrete parameter N'osc corresponding to the number of oscillations (or "number of sine waves") on the low plateau. The number of oscillations on the low plateaus may be equal to or different from the number of oscillations on the high plateaus. Similarly, the amplitude of the oscillation on the low plateaus may be the same as or may be different from the amplitude of the oscillation on the high plateaus.

[0133] As before, the connections between the portions of S-curves (increasing and decreasing portions between the high and low plateaus) and the portions of sinusoidal functions representing the oscillations are made in such a way as to obtain continuity of the entire depression profile curve.

[0134] It was determined that adding oscillations on the high plates allows for an even more effective palpate-roll type massage than with the depression profile of Figure 5b, by adding a higher frequency massaging effect during skinfold grips.

[0135] In the example of Figures 5b and 5c, high plateaus (possibly with oscillations) and low plateaus are connected by S-curves. It is noted that similar curves could be obtained from sine-like functions (or even other portions of increasing and decreasing functions) instead of S-curves.

[0136] The depression profiles in Figures 5a to 5c can therefore be seen as concatenations of portions of increasing curves and portions of decreasing curves (for example portions of S-curves or portions of sinusoidal curves), possibly separated by high plateaus, on which it is possible to add oscillations.

[0137] Using S-shaped curves as increasing and decreasing curves, such depression profiles can be modeled, over a period T, by a function of the form: d(t) =

[0138] It is noted that, in the above depression profiles, the oscillations on the plateaus have a maximum value of Pmax, and that there are no oscillations on the low plateaus. It is understood that the invention is not limited to such embodiments. As mentioned above, there may be oscillations on the low plateaus (only, or in addition to the oscillations on the high plateaus). The oscillations on the high plateaus may be around the value Pmax for example, or may have the minimum value Pmax. The oscillations on the low plateaus may be around the value Pmin, or have the minimum value Pmin, or have the maximum value Pmin.

[0139] For these depression profiles a minimal set of parameters that allows the curve to be completely characterized can include:

[0140] - the minimum value P min of depression;

[0141] - the maximum value P max of depression;

[0142] - the period T or the frequency f = 1 / T of the depression;

[0143] - the cycle ratio, which corresponds to the percentage of the complete period T that the cumulative duration (T sc + T Pmax ) of rise and high plateau;

[0144] - the transition parameter, corresponding to the percentage of the complete period T that the transition duration T must represent sc (i.e. the transition time between a high plateau and a low plateau or between a low plateau and a high plateau);

[0145] - the number of oscillations on the high plate; and

[0146] - the amplitude A of the oscillation.

[0147] For example, the minimum value P minof depression can be a value between 0 and 660 mbar, and preferably between 0 and 120 mbar. In particular, the operator can select, via the user interface 4, the minimum value P min of depression from a set of minimum values ​​that can be selected, for example values ​​between 0 and 120 mbar, in steps of 30 mbar.

[0148] The maximum value P max of depression can be a value between 0 and 660 mbar, and preferably between 90 and 300 mbar. In particular, the operator can select, via the user interface 4, the maximum value P max of depression from a set of maximum values ​​that can be selected, for example values ​​between 90 and 300 mbar, in steps of 30 mbar.

[0149] The frequency may be between 0 Hz and 32 Hz, and preferably between 0.25 Hz and 16 Hz. In particular, the operator may select, via the user interface 4, a frequency value from a set of selectable frequencies, for example 0.25 Hz, 0.50 Hz, 0.75 Hz, 1 Hz, 2 Hz, 3 Hz, and all integer values ​​up to 16 Hz.

[0150] The duty cycle ratio RC may be a number between 0% and 100%. In particular, the operator may select, via the user interface 4, a duty cycle value from a set of selectable values, for example 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% and 90%.

[0151] The transition parameter can take, for example, integer values ​​between 1 and 5 that the operator can select via the user interface 4, representing the number of tens of percent of the full period T that the transition duration T represents. sc .

[0152] The transition parameter controls the time allocated to each portion of the curve (increasing or decreasing) between a high plateau (i.e., a high depression) and a low plateau (i.e., a low depression). The higher the transition parameter, the shorter the total duration of a high plateau and a low plateau during a cycle (i.e., a period). In particular, if S = 5, there are no more high and low plateaus, and, if no oscillation is added on the high plateaus, we find a "pseudo-sinusoidal" curve (concatenation of increasing and decreasing sigmoid portions), having a shape "similar" to that of Figure 5a. In the particular case where S = 5, the duty cycle is 50%.

[0153] The number of oscillations N osc on the top tray can be an integer between 0 and 10 that the operator can select via the user interface 4.

[0154] The amplitude of the oscillation can be a value between 0 mbar and Pmax- In particular, the operator can select, via the user interface 4, the value of the amplitude of the oscillation from a set of selectable values, for example the values ​​between 0 mbar and P max in steps of 30 mbar.

[0155] Of course, all the above values ​​are provided as examples and are in no way limiting of the invention.

[0156] It is understood that the previous set of parameters, although it allows the depression curve to be completely characterized, is not unique. For example, as mentioned above, the transition parameter can be replaced by the duration T sc of the transition, the cycle ratio can be replaced by the duration T Pmaxof a high plateau, the number of oscillations can be replaced by an oscillation frequency and the amplitude of the oscillation can be replaced by a percentage of the amplitude (P max - P min ) of the depression profile. In fact, we have:

[0157] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, a plurality of vacuum profiles may be stored, for example in a memory of the control module 21, and the operator may select one of the plurality of stored vacuum profiles.

[0158] In other embodiments, each vacuum profile is recorded in association with a respective physiological effect and the operator can select one of the recorded physiological effects. The control system 2 is then configured to generate suction such that the vacuum generated inside the massage head 1 follows the vacuum profile associated with the selected physiological effect.

[0159] In other embodiments, alternative or complementary to the previous ones, the operator can select the values ​​of the parameters. In this case, the control module 21 constructs a depression profile according to the values ​​of the parameters selected, and generates a suction so that the depression generated inside the massage head 1 follows the depression profile associated with the selected physiological effect.

[0160] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the depression profiles given above as examples. It extends to any periodic, continuous and non-constant depression profile.

[0161] Other examples of depression profiles are thus represented in Figures 6a to 6d.

[0162] The depression profile shown in Figure 6a corresponds to a so-called “double sine” profile, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function:

[0163] where T1, T2, and (p are four real parameters and T2 being strictly positive). This depression profile is a combination of an oscillation of frequency 1 / Ti between two depression thresholds P min and P max , and an oscillation of frequency 1 / T2 of phase (p and amplitude 4.

[0164] The depression profile shown in Figure 6b corresponds to a so-called “frequency modulated sine” profile, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function:

[0166] where T min , T max , are strictly positive real numbers (with T min < T max ). This depression profile corresponds to an oscillation of variable frequency 1 / T(t), between two depression thresholds P min and P max . T(t) varies between a low period T min and a high period T max according to a continuous and piecewise affine function, having a rise time and a fall time both equal to â T .

[0167] The depression profile shown in Figure 6c corresponds to a so-called “amplitude-modulated sine” profile, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function:

[0168] with :

[0169] where A min , HAS max , are strictly positive real numbers (with A min < A max ). This depression profile corresponds to an oscillation of frequency 1 / T with a variable amplitude (t) and an offset A avg . A(t) varies between a low amplitude value A min and a high amplitude value A max according to a continuous and piecewise affine function, having a rise time and a fall time both equal to â T .

[0170] It is also possible to define a sinus depression profile modulated in amplitude and frequency, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function:

[0171] with A avg, A(t) and T(t) defined as above. This depression profile combines the frequency-modulated sine profile of Figure 6b and the amplitude-modulated sine profile of Figure 6c. The depression profile thus obtained has an oscillation of variable frequency 1 / T(t) with a variable amplitude (t) and an offset A avg .

[0172] The depression profile shown in Figure 6d corresponds to a so-called “ramp” profile, whose temporal variations over a period T = T1 + T2, with 7^ and T2 two strictly positive real parameters, can be represented by the function:

[0173] This profile corresponds to a piecewise affine function composed of a succession of connections between a portion of a straight line increasing between a depression low P min and a high depression P max with a rise time T and a portion of increasing straight line between a high depression P maxand a low depression P min with a descent time T2.

[0174] Other depression profiles can be used. In addition, it is possible to define cosmetic treatment protocols comprising a succession of depression profiles as defined above. For example, in the context of firming the ventral area, it is possible to define a depression sequence comprising:

[0175] - a first phase (for a time preparation during which a constant depression is applied; then

[0176] - a second phase (for a time t2) of kneading during which a depression profile with plates (similar to that of Figure 5b) is applied; then

[0177] - a third phase (for a time t4) of massage during which a sinusoidal depression profile (similar to that of Figure 5a) is applied; then

[0178] - a final phase (for a time t4) of firming during which a constant depression is applied.

[0179] Of course, other combinations are possible, depending on the cosmetic treatment and the area targeted.

[0180] Furthermore, in an embodiment compatible with the preceding embodiments, the massage head may comprise a valve for holding the skin fold and performing a periodic opening and closing movement (it being understood that the closure is not complete, since the skin fold is held in the valve). In other words, the valve performs a periodic movement of frequency f cïap , during which the flap wings oscillate between a first position corresponding to a minimum opening angle between the wings, and a second position corresponding to a maximum opening angle between the wings.

[0181] In these embodiments, the frequency of the vacuum path may be a multiple of the oscillation frequency of the valve. In other words, f = K x fdap, with f the frequency of the vacuum path, f ckip the valve frequency and K a non-zero natural integer. For example, K can be between 1 and 5. Tl Alternatively, the frequency of the depression path may be a fraction of the valve oscillation frequency, e.g. = 0.5 xf clap .

[0182] Furthermore, in these embodiments, it is possible to synchronize the applied depression and the movement of the valve. This means that, during a period of the movement of the valve:

[0183] the start of a trajectory period corresponds to the start of the period of the flap movement; and

[0184] the end of the K èmetrajectory period corresponds to the end of the period of the flap movement.

[0185] For example, for K = 1 , and for a sinusoidal trajectory, each maximum of the depression profile can be synchronized to a maximum opening position of the valve, and each minimum of the depression profile can be synchronized to a minimum opening position of the valve.

[0186] For K = 2 and a sinusoidal trajectory, one maximum out of two of the depression profile can be synchronized to a maximum opening position of the valve, and one minimum out of two of the depression profile can be synchronized to a minimum opening position of the valve.

[0187] It is possible to offset the oscillation of the valve by a predetermined time value, for example to start a vacuum profile at a certain stage in the valve movement cycle.

[0188] These embodiments allow the depression to be adjusted relative to the opening of the valve, in order to minimize pain for the subject. For example, when the valve is closed, it is preferable not to apply the maximum depression value, to avoid over-stressing the skin and therefore causing pain for the subject.

Claims

CLAIMS

1. A massage apparatus (10) comprising a massage head (1) connected to a suction device (22) and a control module (21) configured to control the suction device (22), the massage head (1) being intended to be applied to a subject's skin, wherein the control module (21) is configured to control (350) the suction device (22) to generate suction, such that a vacuum is generated in the massage head (1) according to a predetermined vacuum profile, wherein the predetermined vacuum profile corresponds to a vacuum function representing a temporal variation of the vacuum generated in the massage head (1), said vacuum function being continuous, periodic and non-constant, wherein each period of the vacuum function comprises a first portion increasing from a first value to a second value strictly greater than the first value,a second constant or sinusoidal portion, a third portion decreasing from the second value to the first value, and a fourth constant or sinusoidal portion.

2. A massage apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first portion and the third portion are portions of sigmoid functions. [Claim s] A massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is further configured to: - receiving (310) a set of parameters, the set of parameters comprising: o a parameter relating to a minimum depression value; o a parameter relating to a maximum depression value; and o a parameter relating to a depression period or frequency; - generating (320) a depression profile from the set of parameters received; wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the generated depression profile.

4. A massage apparatus (10) according to claim 3, wherein the set of parameters further comprises at least one of: - a parameter relating to a cycle ratio, the cycle ratio corresponding to a ratio between: o a sum of a duration of the first portion and a duration of the second portion; and o the depression period; - a parameter relating to the duration of the first or third portion; - a parameter relating to a number of sinusoidal ripples in the second portion and / or a parameter relating to a number of sinusoidal ripples in the fourth portion; - a parameter relating to an amplitude of sinusoidal waves in the second portion and / or a parameter relating to a number of sinusoidal waves in the fourth portion. [Claim s] Massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum function has a frequency between 0 Hz and 32 Hz. [Claim s] Massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system comprises a suction device connected to the massage head (1) by a suction conduit configured to generate suction, said suction generating a depression in the massage head.

7. A massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is configured to store a set of vacuum sequences, each vacuum sequence corresponding to a respective cosmetic treatment and comprising at least two distinct vacuum profiles to be executed consecutively, each vacuum profile of the vacuum sequence corresponding to a phase of the cosmetic treatment.

8. Cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage device comprising a massage head (1) connected to a suction device (22) and a control module (21) configured to control the suction device (22), the massage head (1) being intended to be applied to the skin of a subject, the method comprising: - controlling (350), by the control module, the suction device (22) to generate suction so that a depression is generated in the massage head (1) according to a predetermined depression profile; wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head (1), said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant, wherein each period of the depression function comprises a first increasing portion from a first value to a second value strictly greater than the first value, a second constant or sinusoidal portion, a third decreasing portion from the second value to the first value, and a fourth constant or sinusoidal portion.