Structures for therapeutic applications

Abstract

The invention discloses a structure (10) for therapeutic applications, comprising at least one layer (2) having sensor elements (5, 6, 7) and a heating element (8). A first force (11) affects the layer (2) from one side and a second force (12) affects the layer (2) from the other side. The forces are detectable. The sensor elements (5, 6, 7) may include, for example, a position sensor 6, a pressure sensor 7 and a temperature sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a structure for therapeutic applications, in particular to a layered structure for health, relaxation or fitness according to the preamble of the independent claim. Background Art

[0002] Therapeutic applications are provided to patients as treatment for medical or relaxation purposes. Massage is an ideal therapy for patients suffering from stress, muscle tension and back pain. Full body or local therapeutic massage is performed using a calibrated force to relax muscles to relieve stiffness or cramps and relieve back and joint pain, muscle tension, muscle imbalances, stress-related muscle tension or cervical migraines. The beneficial warmth stimulates the entire metabolism. Help can be obtained, for example, through dry water massage.

[0003] Dry water massage or other water devices are known. These devices usually perform an effective massage treatment automatically. The patient lies on warm water separated from the water by a rubber mat. From movable nozzles, water jets are pumped from below to the rubber mat on which the patient lies. The treatment with a specific pressure and a treatment time of about 1 min to 45 min can be set individually via a keyboard or via a chip card with a fixed or preprogrammed program.

[0004] Fixed massage functions, defined massage areas and massage courses can be defined and called up accordingly. Storage on a chip card is possible. The water temperature can usually be adjusted in steps from about 20°C to 40°C.

[0005] During application, the heat of the water radiates into the deeper tissue layers and stimulates the patient's blood circulation. The power of water activates metabolism, relaxes muscles, releases tension and stiffness. The advantage of this special treatment is that it can be performed without increasing blood circulation or sweating.

[0006] The concept of dry water massage can be used for both treatment and prevention. The following therapeutic requirements are placed on such devices: analgesia, muscle relaxation, elimination of muscle imbalances, increase or decrease of muscle tension, local increase of blood circulation and metabolism, relaxation of subcutaneous cell tissue, venous and lymphatic congestion, reflex pain relief, relaxation of scar tissue, activation or weakening of the autonomic nervous system, increase of the efficiency of subsequent treatment measures.

[0007] These requirements are achieved by the massaging effect of the water jets (generating a massaging effect from one or more jets under the patient support) and by a warming effect.

[0008] The massaging effect of water and heat transfer to the patient via a patient support represents a considerable enrichment in the treatment of patients with low back pain.

[0009] An advantage of an overwater or dry water massage system or device over an underwater massage is that the patient does not have to enter the water and therefore does not have to remove bandages, gauze bandages, etc.

[0010] Patient support is provided by cushions made from co-extruded natural rubber material. Surface quality is problematic and strength has certain limitations.

[0011] Generally, advancements are needed in the art. Summary of the invention

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide a structure or support for therapeutic applications. It is another object of the present invention to provide a method of forming such a structure. It is another object of the present invention to provide a cushion with improved properties for therapeutic applications. It is still another object of the present invention to provide an improved water massage device.

[0013] At least one of these objects is achieved by the features according to the independent technical solution.Further specific embodiments are indicated in the dependent technical solution and the description.

[0014] A first aspect of the invention relates to a structure for therapeutic applications, the structure comprising at least one layer with a sensor element and possibly a heating element. A first force affects the layer from one side and a second force affects the layer from the other side. Different forces are applied from the two sides.

[0015] In another aspect of the present invention, a pad comprising the structure is provided. The pad can be used in various therapeutic applications, such as for health care, relaxation, sports or fitness applications.

[0016] Another aspect of the invention relates to a hydromassage device with a movable jet or several movable jets. The device comprises a frame and the structure, which is arranged as a support area on one side (e.g. arranged as a substantially horizontal lying surface) and is intended to receive the movable jet or several movable jets from the other side.

[0017] In the context of the present invention, a hydromassage device is to be understood as including all types of devices which provide power to a body or a body part via a medium for therapeutic or health purposes. The medium is preferably a fluid which can be propelled towards the body or body part, for example as a jet. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a device for physical therapy and physical stimulation by power, which comprises impacting, kneading, working and / or impacting a body or a body part with a jet. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fluid comprises water or consists essentially of water.

[0018] Furthermore, in the context of the present invention, the pad is understood to be a pad placed between a source and a receiving end of the power of the medium, i.e. the body or body part. Thus, at least a part of the power is transmitted to the body or body part via the pad. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the medium, in particular the fluid, is completely contained and the pad presents a contact surface of the treatment device according to the present invention, by means of which the body or body part can receive the power applied by the medium.

[0019] The sensor elements are arranged so that the first and second forces are detectable. The first force is typically generated by contact of a patient or person lying, sitting or standing on the structure; therefore, the first force can be considered to be typically generated by gravity or pressure. In other words, the patient or user at or on the structure generates a certain pressure from one side (e.g., from the top). In this example, the pressure of the first force is generated by the weight of the user. Typically, the first force is generated by physical contact between the patient and the structure.

[0020] In a particular embodiment, the sensor element enables detection of position. This may be achieved, for example, by the sensor element comprising a position or positioning sensor, as these sensors may be used to detect user characteristics, such as body shape or size. Thus, body contour recognition and body contour or shape detection may be achieved, which may be used for therapeutic applications adapted to individual users. Alternatively or additionally, the position detection may be achieved by force sensing.

[0021] The second force is usually generated by pressure on the patient or person lying or sitting on or at the structure. In other words, the user on or at the structure usually receives pressure on the part of the body from the bottom. This pressure of the second force is a jet pressure generated by a jet, preferably a water jet with a treatment pressure of 0.5 to 4.0 bar. The jet pressure can be generated by a nozzle. From such a nozzle that can move in the same longitudinal direction and in some embodiments independently or in the same way, a water jet is pumped from below to the structure where the patient or user lies. Therefore, in a specific embodiment, the sensor element includes a pressure sensor, which detects, for example, the impact force of the jet pressure. Together with the detected body shape or size, the jet pressure can be controlled and adapted. In addition, by detecting the body shape or size, individual users can be identified, and based on a predetermined treatment plan, a corresponding program can be applied. This can cause the nozzle to calibrate the part of the body where the treatment is most effective with a defined jet pressure. The intensity can be adjusted and controlled accordingly.

[0022] In a particular embodiment, the sensor element comprises a sensor capable of sensing temperature and / or temperature changes. For example, this can be achieved by a temperature sensor. In a particular embodiment, the temperature sensor comprises a sensing member selected from the group consisting of a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor, a resistance temperature detector (RTD), a thermocouple, and semiconductor-based sensing.

[0023] When the sensor element comprises a temperature sensor, the temperature may be sensed and measured. This may further support regulation of the temperature by the treatment device. The temperature may be adjusted by activating or deactivating one or more heating elements (e.g., by control logic and / or processing unit).

[0024] For example, a water heating system may be incorporated into the treatment device as part of the structure and / or as part of the medium, such as a fluid. Since the heating system is integrated into the structure or pad in an energy-efficient manner, the heating may, for example, be distributed more evenly. This may also help reduce the cooling effort of the entire device. Not all of the water in the frame needs to be heated, which saves electrical energy. The heating within the structure or pad is not only more comfortable for the user, but is also faster to control and influence with the aid of the temperature sensor. This means that the desired temperature can be achieved and provided faster without the need to heat large amounts of water.

[0025] By means of the arrangement of the sensor elements, various functions such as position recognition or size recognition of the user can be realized. Automatic adjustment of the travel path of the jet, pressure recognition and control of the water jet can be realized by corresponding sensors in the structure or pad. Likewise, only certain areas can be heated. Alternatively, various areas or parts can be heated to different temperatures.

[0026] The sensor elements may be arranged in different layers. This has the advantage that sensors of the same type are located in one layer, while other sensors are located in another layer. It is also advantageous to arrange different sensors and / or heating elements in the same layer so that the structure can remain thin.

[0027] If at least one of the layers comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs), light effects can be generated which help guide the patient in the right position. LEDs can make the application or the device more attractive. The LEDs can be arranged in the same layer as the sensors and / or the heating elements, thereby reducing the thickness of the structure. However, for production or effect purposes, the LEDs can also be arranged in different layers. With the help of the LEDs, signals or instructions can be given to the user, for example to move or change position. This can be advantageous if the patient is enjoying music or sounds via headphones or other sound sources that should not be interrupted by voice or sound signals. Light effects can indicate a certain progress or end of the therapeutic application.

[0028] The structure may include electrical connections for electrical signals. The signals may be transmitted from the structure to a separate or integrated controller. This controller unit may process the signals from various sensors regarding pressure or temperature. The electrical connections may have different thicknesses. The electrical connection to the heating element may be thicker to allow for appropriate current for the heating purpose.

[0029] If the structure comprises different fibers or threads (including optical fibers), desired properties such as color or stability can be achieved. For example, when the structure consists of a fabric of different fibers woven in several layers, corresponding properties such as density, tensile strength or OF properties can be achieved. Furthermore, position sensors, pressure sensors, heating elements, LEDs, etc. with the corresponding electrical connections can be integrated in the fabric to create a smart mat. The strength of the mat with specific elastic fibers can be significantly increased.

[0030] The optical waveguide or optical fiber in the structure can be used for optical effects, as well as for detection and measurement.

[0031] The structure or pad may be arranged between at least one body part of the user and the impact force. If the structure is thin, direct transmission of the massage or jet force to and into the body part is achievable. Different massage types may be provided by the structure or pad, such as parallel massage, mirror massage, circular massage or parallel stroke massage.

[0032] If the at least one layer is sandwiched between an upper layer and a lower layer, the at least one layer is protected by the upper layer and the lower layer.Depending on the application and use, more than three layers may be advantageous.

[0033] When the lower layer comprises a flexible waterproof membrane, the structure is protected and the patient on the structure or support remains dry. If the layer does not fall off or leak due to water and has waterproof properties, the cover layer can have electrical connections to conduct electrical signals and current in order to operate without any short circuits.

[0034] According to another aspect, a method of forming a structure for therapeutic applications is provided. The method comprises the steps of weaving a plurality of fibers into a fabric; and adding a sensor element and a heating element between the fibers to form at least one layer that is affectable / influenceable by a first force from one side and a second force from another side. The sensor element can detect different forces.

[0035] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a therapeutic device including the structure, the method comprising the following steps: providing sensor data indicating a first force affecting a layer from one side and sensor data indicating a second force affecting the layer from another side to a processing unit; providing at least one component for applying the second force to the layer; and adapting the second force to reflect the sensor data indicating the first force affecting the layer from one side and the sensor data indicating the second force affecting the layer from the other side.

[0036] The means for applying the second force to the layer is preferably a jet and the second force is the jet pressure generated by the jet, in particular a water jet having a process pressure.

[0037] The first force may be generated by physical contact between the patient and the structure.

[0038] The patient's body shape or size may be identified from sensor data indicative of the first force, and a corresponding procedure may be applied based on a predetermined treatment plan, specifically whereby adapting the second force includes calibrating the nozzle to the part of the patient's body based on the identified body shape or size.

[0039] The adapting may include adjusting and controlling the strength of the second force depending on the sensor data indicating the first force affecting the layer from one side and the sensor data indicating the second force affecting the layer from another side. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] To facilitate a better understanding of the invention, reference is made hereinafter to the accompanying drawings, which merely show exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the invention.

[0041] In the drawings and the related description, the same or functionally similar parts or elements have the same reference numerals. The same or equivalent marks or symbols represent the same or equivalent elements.

[0042] Figure 1 Schematic diagram showing the structure.

[0043] Figure 2 Another schematic diagram showing the structure with impact force.

[0044] Figure 3 Another schematic diagram showing a structure with LEDs.

[0045] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing another structure with multiple layers.

[0046] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing another structure with multiple layers.

[0047] Figure 6 Schematic diagram showing a water massage device.

[0048] Figure 7 Schematic diagram showing the impact of a water massage device from both sides.

[0049] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing a structure with electrical connections and a central control or processing unit.

[0050] Fig. 9 Schematic diagram showing a water massage apparatus with a patient on the structure.

[0051] Fig.10 A schematic diagram showing a massage apparatus with a patient on the structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Figure 1 A cross section of a structure 10 for therapeutic applications is shown. The structure 10 includes an upper layer 1, an intermediate layer 2, and a lower layer 3. The structure 10 is formed into a mat 4 with specific properties. The three-layer woven mat 4 contains various fibers in different layers. The upper layer 1 is an anti-corrosion or protective coating. The intermediate layer 2 includes various sensor elements 5, 6, 7. Position sensors 5, pressure sensors 6, temperature sensors 7, and heating elements 8 are arranged in the same layer. All sensors and elements have electrical or other connections (not shown). The lower layer 3 includes an insulating coating. As shown in the figure, the intermediate layer 2 is sandwiched between the upper layer 1 and the lower layer 3.

[0053] In an embodiment of the invention, different fibers (also called threads) are woven together in several layers 1, 2, 3 in order to achieve corresponding properties, such as achieving compactness, tensile strength or corresponding structure or color. Advantageously, position sensors 5, pressure sensors 6 and heating elements 8 are integrated in the fabric, which results in a mat 4 with appropriate connections in order to create a kind of smart mat. Each layer 1, 2, 3 can have a specific thickness, preferably in the range of millimeters to a few centimeters.

[0054] Figure 2 Another embodiment of a structure 10 is shown having an upper layer 1, an intermediate layer 2 and a lower layer 3 but with a modified arrangement of elements, namely sensor elements 5, 6, 7 and heating elements 8. The structure 10 forms a pad 4. The intermediate layer 2 comprises the various sensor elements 5, 6, 7 and heating elements 8.

[0055] The forces 11, 12 can act on the pad 4 from both sides and therefore in particular on the middle layer 2. The first force 11 acts on the middle layer 2 from the top. The second force 12 acts on the middle layer 2 from the bottom. Note that the forces 11, 12 affect and act on all layers of the pad 4, but the detection of the forces is performed by the sensor elements 5, 6 in the middle layer 2. The sensor elements 5, 6 are arranged so that the first force 11 and the second force 12 are detectable. The arrangement of the sensor elements 5, 6, 7 and the heating element 8 can follow a specific pattern. It is particularly advantageous to arrange more position sensors 5 in areas where the patient may lie, while areas at (for example) edges or corners can be omitted or the density of position sensors 5 can be reduced. The electrical signals are sent or transmitted to the control unit or central processing unit ( Figure 2 ) and sending or transmitting electrical signals from the unit.

[0056] The first force 11 is generated by gravity through a patient or person lying or sitting on the pad 4. Usually, a certain pressure is generated from the top by the user on the pad 4. This pressure is generated by the user's weight.

[0057] By measuring the pressure of the first force 11, the exact position of the user can be determined. This means that user characteristics such as the size or body contour of the user can be determined and the application for the user can be applied and adapted accordingly. Individual user-adapted therapeutic applications customized to the specific needs or requirements of the user can be provided.

[0058] The second force 12 originates from a massage instrument or device having a moving cylinder or jet. Such impact force is detected by the pressure sensor 6. The electrical signal from the pressure sensor 6 is sent to the control unit or central processing unit ( Figure 8 ). Typically, the second force 12 is a force acting from the outside on the pad 4 and subsequently on the patient on the pad 4. The second force or forces 12 are generated and applied to produce a therapeutic effect, for example a massage effect.

[0059] The temperature sensor 7 helps determine and measure the temperature of the intermediate layer 2. The temperature sensor 7 sends an electrical signal to the control unit or central processing unit via an electrical connection for processing. The heating element 8 is heated accordingly, ie, activated to heat the mat 4 based on the detected and measured temperature.

[0060] Figure 3 Another embodiment of a structure 10 is shown with an upper layer 1, an intermediate layer 2 and a lower layer 3. The structure 10 forms a pad 4. The intermediate layer 2 comprises various sensor elements 5, 6, 7, a heating element 8 and a light emitting diode 9. The LED 9 is arranged in the intermediate layer 2, but can also be arranged separately on or in another layer. All elements have connections to the outside (not shown).

[0061] The LEDs 9 generate light effects that guide the patient on the mat 4 to precise positioning. The LEDs 9 can make the application or device more attractive. The LEDs 9 can, for example, guide the user to lie down first or to position an arm or leg properly. By indicating the LED signals, the user can be given instructions, for example, where to move an arm or when to complete the application.

[0062] Figure 4 Another embodiment of a structure 10 with multiple layers is shown. The structure 10 forms a pad 4 with at least five layers. The structure 10 includes a top layer 1a with a protective coating, an upper layer 1, a third layer 2a, a fourth layer 2b, a fifth layer 2c and a lower layer 3. LEDs 9 are arranged at the upper layer 1 here so as to allow direct light emission toward the lying surface through the top layer 1a with a protective coating. The third layer 2a includes a heating element 8. The fourth layer 2b includes two sensor elements 5, 7, i.e., a position sensor 5 and a temperature sensor 7. Below, a pressure sensor 6 is arranged in the fifth layer 2c. Finally, the lower layer 3 is positioned at the bottom of the stack. Generally, any kind of combination of various elements and layers is possible. It may be advantageous to have specific sensors and / or elements in a layer and other sensors and / or elements in a separate layer. Advanced manufacturing processes may even allow all elements to be arranged in one layer, so that a thin but sturdy pad 4 can be provided.

[0063] Figure 5 Yet another embodiment of a structure 10 with multiple layers is shown. A structure 10 with five layers forms a pad 4. The structure 10 comprises an upper layer 1, a second layer 2a, a third layer 2b, a fourth layer 2c and a lower layer 3 as a fifth layer. No LEDs are integrated. The upper layer 1 is a protective layer for the surface on which the patient will be placed. The second layer 2a comprises a position sensor 5 for accurately detecting the patient. The third layer 2b comprises two components 7, 8; a temperature sensor 7 and a heating element 8 are arranged in the same layer. For the manufacturing process, it may be advantageous to place the temperature sensor 7 and the heating element 8 in the same layer. Below the third layer 2b, a pressure sensor 6 is arranged in the fourth layer 2c. The lower layer 3 consists of a waterproof membrane, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0064] Figure 6 A cross section of a water massage device 20 is shown. In this embodiment, the structure 10 comprises an upper layer 1, an intermediate layer 2 and a lower layer 3. An impact first force 11 is generated from the top by a patient (not shown) on the pad 4. The lower layer 3 of the pad 4 is in direct contact with the water 13 contained in the frame 14. When the pad 4 is on top of the water 13, the structure 10 is substantially horizontal. The lower layer 3 has an insulating coating. This material is waterproof so as not to get other layers wet or affected by the water 13. The water 13 is arranged in a tank positioned in the frame 14. It is particularly advantageous that the water 13 in the tank does not need to be heated for comfort. This reduces energy. A heating of approximately 20 to 40 degrees Celsius is achieved directly in the pad 4 by the heating element 8.

[0065] Fill the tank with over 300 litres of water. Pressure intensity, massage type and area can be controlled individually for each treatment for the patient, but can also be controlled by following the instructions below. Figure 8 The control unit described is fully automatic. The water massage device 20 provides various massage types, such as parallel massage, mirror massage, circular massage and parallel stroke massage. In addition, the massage area can be selected or applied by detection, such as shoulder and / or neck massage, whole body, back, waist, legs, etc. The application time is usually in the range of up to 45 minutes. The intensity of the pressure can be selected individually, but with the help of the pressure sensor 6, the pressure can be controlled in an optimized manner.

[0066] Figure 7 Showing a massage with two massage jets from the bottom applying a second force 12 Figure 6 The invention relates to a hydromassage device 20. Typically, water jets 23 are pumped from below from movable nozzles (not shown) onto a cushion 4 on which a patient 21 lies. The second force 12 is detected by a pressure sensor 6. The electrical signals from the sensors 5, 6 are sent via an electrical connection to a control unit or central processing unit. A treatment with a defined pressure of the abutment area is performed by the position sensor 5 in response to the determined position of the patient.

[0067] Figure 8 A structure 10 is illustrated with an intermediate layer 2 and electrical connections 16, 17 to a control unit or central processing unit 15. A first electrical connection 16 connects the sensor elements 5, 6, 7 to the central processing unit 15. The LED 9 is also connected to the central processing unit 15 via the first electrical connection 16. A second electrical connection 17 is connected from the control unit 15 to the heating element 8. The second electrical connection 16 is adapted to the current or power requirement of the heating element 8. This means in practice that the second electrical connection 17 is thicker than the first electrical connection 16.

[0068] The sensor elements 5, 6, 7 communicate with a central processing unit 15. The central processing unit 15, which may be connected to a network and further to the Internet, enables various applications and treatments. As indicated above, different massage types may be provided and various massage areas may be addressed.

[0069] The position sensor 5 detects the position of the user or a specific part of the body that needs treatment. The position sensor 5 may be adapted to detect the stiffness of tissue or muscle. In response thereto, a specific application is applied to the specific area or muscle with a defined type and pressure, all processed and controlled by the central processing unit 15. A software program with specific code may be applied. The use of a self-learning or adaptive program will result in optimization of the application to benefit the patient being treated, the treatment being the most suitable for the individual rather than a standard program.

[0070] The pressure sensor 6 detects the jet pressure from below. The jet pressure (ie, intensity) and movement of the jet are controlled by the control or central processing unit 15. Based on the detected body contour of the patient, the most effective treatment program for the patient is applied. With the help of the pressure sensor 6, the pressure intensity can be controlled in an optimized manner.

[0071] The position sensor 5 and the pressure sensor 6 can be implemented by piezoelectric sensors. Such piezoelectric sensors use the piezoelectric effect to measure changes in pressure, acceleration, strain or force by converting the changes into electric charge. Piezoelectric sensors do not require any power supply to continuously monitor the environment. They provide a stable and repeatable accurate electrical output. With such sensors, the patient's weight can also be determined. Based on this, the jet pressure can be adapted.

[0072] The temperature sensor 7 helps determine and measure the temperature of the middle layer 2. The temperature sensor 7 transmits an electrical signal as a measure of the temperature and can be arranged in any other layer, but is arranged where the temperature can be detected in the best way. The temperature sensor 7 sends the electrical signal via the first electrical connection 16 to the control or central processing unit 15 for processing. The heating element 8 is heated by the corresponding power applied to the second electrical connection 17. The heating and cooling process is controlled and adapted by the control or central processing unit 15. This means that based on the detected and measured temperature, the heating element 8 is activated to heat the structure 10.

[0073] Fig. 9 A schematic diagram of a water massage or jet device 20 is shown, with a user 21 on the structure 10. As illustrated in the figure, the user or patient 21 rests on the pad 4 and enjoys a therapeutic application in the form of a water jet massage by the impact forces (second force 12) generated by the nozzles 22. The patient 21 himself generates a certain pressure from the top, whereby the generated first force 11 is detected and measured by the position sensor 5. The structure 10 is arranged between the body of the patient or user 21 and the impact forces 12. The pressure sensor 6 detects the jet pressure from below as the second force 12. The jet pressure, jet movement and temperature are controlled by a control or central processing unit 15 (not shown in the figure). Based on the program and the detected body contours of the patient, the most effective treatment for the patient is applied.

[0074] As indicated above, the structure 10 can be a fabric woven from different fibers. The structure 10 for therapeutic applications is produced by weaving a plurality of fibers into a fabric, adding sensor elements 5, 6, 7 and heating elements 8 between the fibers to form at least one layer 2. The layer 2 can be affected from one side (usually from the top) with a first force 11 and from the other side (usually from the bottom) with a second force 12. The pad 4 can be realized as an electronic textile combining electronic devices such as sensor elements 5, 6, 7 and heating elements 8 with textiles. Electronic devices with active and passive components are directly integrated in the textile substrate. The conductive textile braid is connected to a control or central processing unit 15. Printing technology can be applied to produce the sensor elements 5, 6, 7 and heating elements 8.

[0075] Fig.10 A schematic diagram of a massage device 24 is shown, wherein a patient 21 is on a structure 10. The massage device 24 comprises a moving cylinder 25. As illustrated in the figure, the patient 21 is positioned horizontally on the pad 4 and enjoys a therapeutic application in the form of a massage by the impact force (second force 12) generated by the moving cylinder 25. The patient 21 himself generates a certain pressure from the top, whereby the first force 11 generated is detected and measured by the position sensor 5. The structure 10 is arranged between the body of the patient or user 21 and the impact force 12. The pressure sensor 6 detects the pressure from the moving cylinder 25 as the second force 12. The pressure, the movement of the cylinder 25 and the temperature are controlled by a control or central processing unit 15 (not shown in the figure). Based on the program and the detected body contour of the patient, the most effective treatment for the patient is applied. The arrangement of the pad 4 is flexible, depending on where the second force 12 is applied. This means that the pad 4 can also be used if the patient 21 is sitting, standing or in a lying position.

[0076] The described and illustrated embodiments may be combined with one another, and it is intended to illustrate one or more ways to practice and implement the present invention. It should be further noted that the above description of the specific embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein has been presented for the purpose of illustration and description and is not intended to limit the scope of the subject matter stated herein. It is fully expected that various other embodiments, modifications and applications will become apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art based on the above description and the accompanying drawings. Therefore, such other embodiments, modifications and applications are intended to fall within the scope of the following appended claims. In addition, it will be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments, modifications and applications described herein are in the context of a specific environment, and the subject matter stated herein is not limited thereto, but may be beneficially applied to any number of other ways, environments and purposes. Therefore, the claims stated below should be interpreted in view of the full breadth of the novel features and technologies disclosed herein.

[0077] Reference Components List

[0078] 1: Upper level

[0079] 2: Middle layer

[0080] 3: Lower level

[0081] 4: Pad

[0082] 5, 6, 7: Sensor elements

[0083] 5: Position sensor

[0084] 6: Pressure sensor

[0085] 7: Temperature sensor

[0086] 8: Heating element

[0087] 9: Light Emitting Diode (LED)

[0088] 10: Structure

[0089] 11: First Force

[0090] 12: Second Force

[0091] 13: Water

[0092] 14: Framework

[0093] 15: Control or central processing unit

[0094] 16: First electrical connection

[0095] 17: Second electrical connection

[0096] 20: Water massage device

[0097] 21: Patient or User

[0098] 22: Nozzle

[0099] 23: Water jet

[0100] 24: Massage device

[0101] 25: Move the cylinder.

Claims

1. A water massage device having a movable jet, the water massage device comprising: Frame (14); as well as A structure (10) for therapeutic applications, the structure (10) comprising: at least one layer (2) having a sensor element (5, 6, 7), wherein a first force (11) affects the layer (2) from one side and a second force (12) affects the layer (2) from the other side, wherein the sensor elements (5, 6) are arranged to detect the first force (11) and the second force (12), and Wherein the structure (10) is arranged substantially horizontally as a lying surface on one side and is adapted to receive the movable jet from the other side.

2. A water massage device according to claim 1, wherein said layer further comprises a heating element (8).

3. A water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor element (5, 6, 7) comprises a position sensor (5) for detecting characteristics of a user.

4. The water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor element (5, 6) comprises a pressure sensor (6) for detecting impact force.

5. A water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor element (7) comprises a temperature sensor (7) for determining a temperature.

6. Water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor elements (5, 6, 7) are arranged in different layers.

7. A water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said at least one layer (2) comprises light emitting diodes for light effects.

8. A water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said structure (10) further comprises electrical connections for electrical signals.

9. A water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said structure (10) further comprises different fibers.

10. A water massage device according to claim 9, wherein the structure (10) consists of a fabric woven from different fibers.

11. The water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the structure is arranged between at least one body part of the user and the impact force.

12. A water massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one layer (2) is sandwiched between an upper layer (1) and a lower layer (3).

13. Water massage device according to claim 12, wherein the lower layer (3) comprises an elastic waterproof membrane.

14. A method of forming a water massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising: Weaving multiple fibers into a fabric; and Sensor elements (5, 6, 7) and heating elements (8) are added between the fibers to form at least one layer (2) which can be influenced from one side with a first force (11) and from the other side with a second force (12).

15. Method according to claim 14, wherein the means for applying the second force (12) to the layer (2) is a jet and the second force (12) is a jet pressure generated by a water jet having a treatment pressure.

16. The method according to claim 14, wherein the first force (11) is generated by physical contact between the patient (21) and the structure.

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