Automated system for skeletal muscular tissue, joint, fascia and skin treatment and method of use

Abstract

A peristaltic massage treatment device, a device for providing massage treatment to soft tissue, and a method for providing physical treatment may include a container and a dome forming a cavity that may be pressurized, and the cavity includes a motorized rotating sprocket, where the motorized rotating sprocket is rotatable relative to the container. The sprocket may include one or more wheels for providing peristaltic wave massage therapy. The device may be mounted on a track that is mounted to the wall. The device can be controlled remotely or directly.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 359,975, filed on July 11, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an automated system for treating skeletal musculature, joints, fascia and skin, and more particularly to a device that can provide a variety of musculature treatments to a wide range of body parts and areas in a home, office or similar environment. The massage device can include a core mounted on a track or rail. The track can be mounted to a wall, ceiling or other suitable substrate. The core can provide a variety of massages and musculature treatments to a user. Background Art

[0003] Massage and physical therapy have been used to promote health and healing for centuries. There are many types of massage therapy. One common form is Swedish massage or classic massage. Other types of massage can be described as sports massage and clinical massage. Massage traditions in Eastern cultures include acupressure, scraping, and tuina. Scraping, also known as friction stroking, is an intense peristaltic therapy that has been shown to aid in the healing of muscles and joints and is currently part of Western physical therapy for post-injury, post-surgery, and chronic injury and pain relief.

[0004] In massage therapy and physical therapy, a massage therapist may rub, knead, and / or scrape the soft tissues of the human body, including but not limited to muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, skin, etc. The massage therapist may vary the movements and the amount of pressure applied. Studies in massage therapy and / or physical therapy have found that the benefits of massage can include reducing stress, reducing muscle pain and tension, increasing relaxation, promoting the healing process, increasing strength, increasing range of motion, and improving the function of the immune system.

[0005] While there are benefits to physical therapy and massage therapy, one disadvantage is that the massage therapist or therapist may begin to tire during long massage treatments, which may lead to a reduction in the quality and effectiveness of the massage. It would be an improvement in the art to provide a machine or system that can produce, replicate, or even surpass various types of massage and muscle therapy techniques over a long period of time in a repeatable and sustainable manner. In contrast to reciprocating ram or vibration therapy, peristaltic wave therapy is more effective and mimics massage or scraping therapy done by hand. The user will control the force from their own body against the system or machine and the bubble pressure setting on the system or machine. The user is also able to retract and stretch their muscle tissue while engaging the treatment area of ​​the system or machine. Summary of the invention

[0006] In one embodiment, the automatic massage therapy system may include three subsystems, a core, a track, and a controller. The core mainly provides a device for peristaltic massage of human soft tissue. The track provides a device for supporting and positioning the system. The controller provides a device for controlling the functions of the core.

[0007] The core can provide various devices for peristaltic therapy and massaging human soft tissue. For example, but not limited to, the core can include a wheel that uses peristaltic waves to massage muscles and similar tissues to increase blood flow and apply gentle or intense pressure to the muscles. The core can include a cavity that can be pressurized to a desired level, allowing varying pressures to be applied by the wheel. The higher the cavity pressure, the shallower the treatment. Conversely, the lower the cavity pressure, the deeper the treatment. The core can provide or simulate various types of massage or muscle therapy techniques.

[0008] The track or rail system may be wall mounted. Such a system may be mounted to any suitable surface. The track system may provide a means for supporting, anchoring and positioning the core of the system. The core may be integrally and operably connected to the track or rail in a manner that allows the core to move along the track and be locked in place at various points along the track.

[0009] The controller may provide means for controlling the therapeutic or massage functions of the core. The controller may be programmed to control and vary the therapeutic or massage functions of the core. This may be achieved by controlling the speed and pressure of the wheels, the air pressure of the cavities in the core, the direction and configuration of the wheels, and similar features. The controller itself may be of any suitable configuration and may include triggers for activating the functions of the core and / or a touch screen that enables the user to control the various massage functions of the core.

[0010] In one embodiment, a massage therapy device may include a rail and a controller, wherein the rail may include a slot that enables an operable connection between the rail and a core, the core may include a hub motor and wheel and a bubble, wherein the bubble encloses a cavity that can be pressurized with air, and the controller controls various functions of the core.

[0011] In one embodiment, a massage therapy device may include: a container; a hub motor operably connected to and located within the container, wherein the hub motor further includes a sprocket and a plurality of wheels, the sprocket being operably and rotatably connected to the hub motor and the plurality of wheels being operably and rotatably connected to the sprocket, and the hub motor being capable of rotating the sprocket; and a flexible dome connected to the container in a manner that encloses the hub motor, the sprocket, and the plurality of wheels within a cavity formed by the container and the dome; and a bezel detachably connected to the container in a manner that seals the cavity with the dome (dome edge) located between the bezel and the container (container edge); and a controller for controlling the function of the hub motor. There are two main reasons for using this pressurized cavity and flexible dome system. The first reason is to control the depth of treatment by rotating the wheel. The rotating wheel pushes the flexible dome to deliver the peristaltic wave treatment to the user. The second reason is to completely separate the hub motor, the sprocket and the wheels or the rotating wheel from the outside world for safety. Therefore, it is impossible for the user to get entangled with the rotating wheel.

[0012] In one embodiment, the massage therapy device may further include a track mounted to the wall and a carrier operably and rotatably connected to the container, and the carrier is operably connected to the track in a manner that allows the carrier and the container to move along the track. The track may also include a power reel at one end and a counterweight reel at the opposite end. The carrier and the container can be operably positioned along the track. The device may also include a pump and a valve, both of which are operably arranged in the container in a manner that can pressurize and depressurize the cavity, and the pressurization can be controlled by a controller. The device may also include a light array operably connected to the frame, wherein the light array includes a light source, a heat sink surrounding the light source, and a lens covering the light source. Each light source can be an LED infrared light source that provides infrared light.

[0013] In another embodiment, the massage therapy device may further include a track mounted to the wall and a carrier operably and rotatably connected to the container, and the carrier is operably connected to the track in a manner that allows the carrier and the container to move along the track. The track may also include a power reel and a counterweight reel at one end of the track. The carrier and the container can be operably positioned along the track. The device may also include a pump and a valve, both of which are operably arranged in the container in a manner that can pressurize and depressurize the cavity, and the pressurization can be controlled by a controller. The device may also include a light array operably connected to the frame, wherein the light array includes a light source, a heat sink surrounding the light source, and a lens covering the light source. Each light source can be an LED infrared light source that provides infrared light. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The foregoing and other objects and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The present invention will be described in more detail and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the automatic muscle tissue treatment system;

[0016] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of a track or rail system;

[0017] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a track section and an exploded view of connector pins of the track section;

[0018] Figure 4 is a perspective view of one end (near end) of the track with the internal structure;

[0019] Figure 5 is a perspective view of one end (the far end) of the track with the internal structure;

[0020] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a core integrally connected to the track;

[0021] Figure 7 It is a front perspective view of the core;

[0022] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the core;

[0023] Fig. 9 is an upward perspective view of the carrier of the core;

[0024] Fig.10 It is an upward perspective view of the container or bowl of the core;

[0025] Fig.11 It is a perspective view of the vesicular or spherical part of the core;

[0026] Fig.12 is an upward perspective view of the frame with the core handle;

[0027] Fig.13 is a downward perspective view of a frame having a light array, and a partially exploded view of the light array;

[0028] Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view of the core;

[0029] Fig.15 It is a perspective view of the open container or bowl of the core;

[0030] Fig.16is a perspective view of an open container or bowl having a core of a hub motor and a wheel;

[0031] Fig.17 is a top view of an open container or bowl having a core portion with a pump and valve configuration;

[0032] Fig.18 is a perspective view of a hub motor having a wheel structure;

[0033] Fig.19 is a side view of a hub motor having a wheel structure;

[0034] Fig. 20 is a front view of a hub motor having a wheel structure;

[0035] Fig.21 is a front view of a hub motor having a wheel with a staggered configuration;

[0036] Fig. 22 is a side view of a hub motor with a wheel having an offset center axis configuration;

[0037] Fig.23A is a perspective view of a hub motor having a multi-row wheel structure;

[0038] Fig. 23B is a front view of a hub motor having a multi-row wheel structure;

[0039] Fig.24 It is a front view of a hub motor with a multi-row wheel structure and a bubble-shaped part or a spherical part;

[0040] Fig.25 is a perspective view of a core having a multiple-row wheel configuration, wherein the core is connected to a track;

[0041] Fig.26 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a track system having an internal structure at one end of the track system;

[0042] Fig. 27 is a rear perspective view of a handheld massage therapy device;

[0043] Fig.28 is a side view of a handheld massage therapy device;

[0044] Fig.29 is a front perspective view of a handheld massage therapy device; and

[0045] Fig.30 is a perspective view of the controller unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] It is readily understood that, as generally described herein, the components of the present invention may be arranged and designed in a variety of different configurations. Therefore, the following more detailed description of embodiments of the systems, products, and methods of use of the present invention is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but is merely representative of various embodiments of the present invention.

[0047] refer to Figure 1 , the present invention relates to an automated system 10 for massage therapy. The system 10 can be described as including a track 20 or guide rail 20, a core 50 and a controller 130. The track 20 generally has two opposite ends. One end (i.e., the proximal end) can be described as a base 30 or track base 30, wherein the base 30 can be disposed at the bottom of the track 20 when the track 20 is placed in a vertical direction. However, depending on the intended use, the track 20 can also be placed in a horizontal direction. In any case, the track 20 or guide rail 20 can have a base 30 at one end and a head 40 or track head 40 at the opposite end. The base 30 can have a power cord 39 or power supply 39 operably connected to provide power to the system 10. The controller 130 is removably connected to the core 50 and is operably connected to the core 50 via a controller wire 138 or cable 138.

[0048] Reference Figure 2 , the track system 20 or rail 20 can include multiple components. The track 20 itself can include multiple track segments 22 or rail segments 22. The track 20 generally has two opposite ends. One end can be described as a proximal end or track base 30 or foot 30. The other end can be described as a distal end or track head 40. The track base 30 can include a base cover 32, which can hide and cover the components within the track base 30. Similarly, the track head 40 or head 40 can include a head cover 42, which can hide and cover the components within the track head 40. The track system 20 can be mounted to a wall (wall) surface in a generally vertically aligned manner. The track system 20 can be mounted to a wall surface in a generally horizontally aligned manner. The track system 20 can be mounted in any suitable manner. The track system 20 can be suspended via a ceiling mount in a manner that allows the system 10 to be used from above a user.

[0049] Reference Figure 3 , shows a track segment 22 or guide rail segment 22 having a component structure. Multiple track segments 22 can be joined together using a connecting pin 24 or pin 24, which can be inserted into a connecting hole 23 that aligns the individual track segments 22 when connected. Any suitable connecting means can be used.

[0050] The track segment 22 may include a plurality of locating holes 25. The locating holes 25 may have any suitable size and shape. The locating holes 25 may be generally arranged in a straight line down the middle of the track segment 22 (the locating holes 25 are arranged in a straight line along the middle of the track segment 22). The locating holes 25 provide a space into which the locating rods 59 may be inserted so that the core 50 may be positioned at different points along the track segment 22.

[0051] The track segments 22 may include track grooves 26 or guide grooves 26 or grooves 26 in which groove wheels 54 may engage in a manner that allows the core 50 to move along each track segment 22 of the track 20. Any suitable means of moving or sliding the core 50 along the track 20 may be used. The track segments 22 may include one or more guides 28 that may be formed to allow cables and / or wires to be aligned with the track 20 in a manner that allows the core 50 to move along the track 20 without damaging the cables and / or wires that may be positioned or attached in the guides 28.

[0052] Reference Figure 4 , the track 20 may include an end that may be described as a track base 30, or a base 30 or foot 30, which may also be described as the proximal end 30 of the track 20. The track base 30 may include a base cover 32 that covers and hides the internal structure. For example, a power reel 34 or a base pulley 34 may be positioned in the track base 30 and operably connected to enable the cable 38 to move. When the cable 38 is connected to the carrier 52, the power reel 34 may be operated to move the carrier 52 and the core 50 along the track 20. The track base 30 may include a base stop 36 to ensure that the carrier 52 and / or the core container 70 do not contact the power reel 34 during operation of the system 10. The track base 30 may also include a power cord 39 that is operably connected to the system 10 to provide power to various components and components of the system 10, including but not limited to the core 50, the controller 130, and the power reel 34. The powered reel 34 may include a power cord 39 or main power cable 39 , which may be reeled in and out depending on the position of the core 50 along the track 20 .

[0053] Reference Figure 5, the track 20 may include an end that may be described as a track head 40, or a head 40 or rail head 40, which may also be described as the distal end 40 of the track 20. The track head 40 may include a head cover 42 that covers and hides the internal structure. For example, a weighted reel 44 or a weighted pulley 44 may be positioned in the track head 40 and operably connected to enable movement and / or anchoring of the cable 38. The track head 40 may include a head stop 46 to ensure that the carrier 52 and / or the core container 70 do not contact the weighted reel 44 during operation of the system 10. The weighted reel 44 may include the cable 38 connected to the carrier 52 and may balance the weight of the core 50 so that the user may more easily move the core 50 along the track 20.

[0054] Reference Figure 6 , the core 50 can be operably connected to the track 20 or track section 22. The core 50 can be integral with the carrier 52 to allow the core 50 and the guide rail 20 to be operably connected. The carrier 52 can be configured to allow the carrier 52 and the core 50 to engage with the groove 26 in a manner that allows the carrier 52 and the core 50 to move along the track 20. With the track 20 and the core 50 mounted to the wall (wall portion), the user can receive massage treatment for muscles and body areas that cannot be reached by hand-operated devices. For example, the user can position the core 50 so that the user can lean back on the dome 82 to massage the back muscles. In addition, the amount of pressure applied to the dome 82 by the user can vary. The core 50 can be operated by hand without the need for the track 20, and most likely without the carrier 52. The core 50 can simply be placed on the floor and provide massage treatment from that position.

[0055] refer to Figure 7 , and usually refer to Figures 7 to 20 , the core 50 may include a plurality of component structures forming the core 50. The core 50 may include a carrier 52 that forms the basis of the core 50. The core 50 may include a core container 70, or a container 70 or a bowl 70 that provides a means for housing the plurality of component structures associated with the core 50. The core 50 may include a dome 82 or a bubble 82 that provides a protective cover for the components of the core 50, and a means for sealing the cavity inside for pressurization, and forming a cavity within the core 50, the components of the core 50 including the hub motor 100. The cavity is generally defined by the container 70 and the dome 82, and may be described as a space enclosed by the container 70 and the dome 82. The cavity may include a structure similar to the hub motor 100. The core 50 may include a frame 90 that provides a means for securing the dome 82 between the container 70 and the frame 90.

[0056] More specifically refer to Figure 8 , the core 50 can be arranged so that the carrier 52 forms the basis of the core 50. The container 70 or the core container 70 or the bowl 70 can be operably connected to the carrier. The dome 82 or the bubble 82 can be installed on the container 70, wherein the dome edge 84 or the bubble edge 84 rests on the container edge 78. The frame 90 can be placed on the dome 82 and rest on the dome edge 84. Then, the container closure 80 can be engaged with the frame connector 81 in a manner that allows the container closure 80 to fix the dome edge 84 between the container edge 78 and the frame 90. Therefore, a cavity is formed by the container 70 or the bowl 70 and the dome 82. This cavity can be airtight, so that this cavity can be pressurized and / or decompressed. In addition, the container closure 80 allows the dome 82 to be removable and / or replaceable, thereby also allowing the component that can be in the cavity of the core 50 to be approached.

[0057] More specifically refer to Fig. 9 , the carrier 52 may include multiple components and structures. The carrier 52 may be made of any suitable material (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.). Typically, the suitable material will be strong and somewhat rigid to support other structures. The carrier 52 may include a sheave 54 or a roller bearing 54, which may engage with the groove 26 on the track 20 in a manner that allows the carrier 52 to move smoothly along the track 20. The carrier 52 may be designed to easily slide up and down and / or roll along the track 20 to accommodate any desired height or position along the track 20. The carrier 52 may include a mounting for the controller 130. The carrier 52 may include a stop pull 56 or a cable mounting 56, which may be used as a connection point for the cable 38 or other structure. The carrier 52 may include a positioning knob 58 having a positioning rod 59. In one embodiment, the positioning knob 58 may be pulled upward to retract the positioning rod 59. The positioning knob 58 may then be lowered to insert the positioning rod 59 into the positioning hole 25. This may allow the carrier 52 and core 50 to be positioned and secured at various points along the track 20. Thus, the core 50 may be positioned at various heights along the track 20, or at various lengths along the track 20.

[0058] The carrier 52 may include a table 60 that may be used as a flat surface or foundation for other components. The carrier 52 may include a power switch 66 that may be used as an on / off switch for the power availability of the system 10. The carrier 52 may also include a table hole 62 that may be used as a device for accessing the core 50 via a container 70 for wires or other structures. The carrier 52 may include a knob 64. In one embodiment, the knob 64 may be pulled upward to retract the rotating rod. Then, the knob 64 may be lowered to insert the rotating rod into the rotating hole 74. This may allow the core 50 to be positioned and fixed at various rotation points when the core 50 rotates relative to the carrier 52.

[0059] More specifically refer to Fig.10 , the container 70 or bowl 70 can include various structures and configurations. The container 70 can be made of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, polymer, etc.). Typically, suitable materials will be sturdy and somewhat rigid to support and accommodate other structures. The container 70 can include a table bearing 72, which can allow the container 70 to be connected to the carrier 52 in a manner that allows the container 70 to rotate relative to the carrier 52. The container 70 can be mounted to the table bearing 72 in a manner that allows the core 50 to rotate 180 degrees or 90 degrees in either direction. This allows the wheel 112 to act on the user's soft tissue or muscle in the following manner: aligned parallel to the tissue or aligned perpendicular to the tissue or at other available and / or desired angles. The user can select the desired angle to align between the tissue and the sprocket with the wheel.

[0060] The container 70 may include a container bottom 76 or container floor 76, which may be positioned substantially above the stage aperture 62 when the container 70 is rotatably connected to the carrier 52. The container 70 may include a rotation aperture 74, which may be described as an indentation that provides a locating point to secure the container 70 in varying rotational or rotational positions relative to the carrier. The container 70 may include a container edge 78, which may serve as an engagement surface for a dome edge 84 of the dome 82. The container 70 may include a container top 79, which may define the top of the container 70 and serve as a support for the bottom of the dome 82.

[0061] The container 70 may include two or more container closures 80. The container closures 80 are used to connect and secure the frame 90 and the container 70. The connection may be releasable so that the components within the container 70 can be accessed, replaced and / or maintained. In addition, the connection may be completed in a manner that secures the dome edge 84 between the container edge 78 and the frame 90. Likewise, the connection may be releasable so that the dome 82 can be accessed, replaced and / or maintained.

[0062] More specifically refer to Fig.11 The dome 82 or bubble 82 can be made of any suitable material. Generally, suitable materials are somewhat flexible and durable, such as polyurethane, silicone, polymer, plastic, rubber and similar compounds. The dome 82 can be translucent or opaque, or any desired color. The dome 82 can include a dome edge 84, or a bubble edge 84 or a flange 84, which can be used as a base or foundation for the dome 82. The dome 82 can include any suitable or desired texture, which can provide an indication of the alignment of the wheel 112 or some other features of the core 50. The dome 82 can protect the wheel structure from contamination or damage, and the dome 82 can protect the user of the system 10 from the injury that may be caused by the wheel when the system 10 is in operation.

[0063] More specifically refer to Fig.12 , the frame 90 can include various structures and configurations. The frame 90 can be made of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, polymer, etc.). Typically, the suitable material will be strong and somewhat rigid to support other structures. The frame 90 can include a handle connection 86, which can be used as a connection point for a handle 88. The frame 90 can include a plurality of handles 88, which are generally uniformly and radially spaced around the frame 90. The frame 90 can include a light array 92 or a light emitting device 92.

[0064] More specifically refer to Fig.13, the frame 90 may include a light array 92, which may include various structures and configurations. The light array 92 may include a lens 94, which may be used as a cover above the light source 96 and the heat sink 98. The lens 94 may be made of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, polymer, etc.). Typically, the suitable material will be somewhat rigid and translucent to allow light to pass through the lens 94. The light array 92 may include a heat sink 98 surrounding the light source 94, which may be formed to help ensure that the light source 96 does not get too hot. The light source 96 may provide various types of light, such as UV light, IR light, visible light, etc. The light source 96 may be an LED infrared light source. The light from the light source 96 may provide various benefits to the user of the system 10, for example, UV light may be used to help the body produce vitamin D, provide antibacterial effects, or treat psoriasis, eczema, jaundice, and local scleroderma. IR light at about 660nm and / or at about 850nm may stimulate healthy skin fascia and muscle cells. Visible light may be used to help illuminate the skin surface or warm the skin. The light emitting array 92 may include a plurality of light sources 94, wherein all light sources 94 provide the same type of light, or different light sources 94 provide different types of light. The light emitting array 92 may include infrared LED light sources 94 that radiate at near and far ranges, which have been shown to be penetrating and therapeutic to skin, fascia, and / or muscle cells.

[0065] More specifically refer to Fig.14 , the core 50 may include various structures and configurations. The container 70 may include a motor mount 104 or mount 104 that provides a foundation and support for the hub motor 100. The hub motor 100 may provide a means for rotating the sprocket relative to the motor shaft 102. The hub motor 100 may include a motor shaft 102 that is configured to and facilitates the rotation of a sprocket 110 about the motor shaft 102. The sprocket 110 may include a wheel 112 rotatably attached to the sprocket by an axle 114. In some embodiments, the hub motor 100 may be described as a motorized rotating sprocket having a wheel connected to the sprocket.

[0066] More specifically refer to Fig.15 , the container 70 may be operably connected to the carrier 52, which is operably connected to the track 20. The container 70 may include a motor mount 104 or mount 104 that provides a basis for mounting the hub motor 100 within the container 70.

[0067] More specifically refer to Fig.16, the container 70 can accommodate the hub motor 100. The hub motor 100 can be inserted and accommodated within the container 70 using a mount 104 in a manner that allows the motor shaft 102 to operate as intended. The hub motor 100 can be operably connected to the sprocket 110. The wheel 112 can be operably and rotatably connected to the sprocket 110 via an axle 114.

[0068] More specifically refer to Fig.17 , the container 70 may include a pump 116 and a valve 118. The pump 116 and valve 118 may be operably connected to the container 70 and contained within the container 70. In operation, the pump 116 and valve 118 may be used to pressurize and depressurize the cavity formed when the dome 82 is fixed to the container 70 by fixing the frame 90 using the container closure 80. The dome edge 84 may be fixed to the container edge 78 in a manner that produces an airtight seal, thereby being able to pressurize the cavity formed by the container 70 and the dome 82, which may be provided by the pump 116 and valve 118 components contained in the cavity. Typically, a pressure of about 0.02 psi to about 2.0 psi may be maintained in the cavity or chamber. The low pressure range may be described as about 0.2 psi to about 0.8 psi. The medium pressure range may be described as about 0.9 psi to about 1.4 psi. The high pressure range may be described as about 1.5 psi to about 2.0 psi. In certain embodiments, the pressure may be as high as 4.0 psi. The pressurization of the cavity allows the dome 82 to feel softer or harder to the user, depending on the amount of pressurization. The more the cavity is pressurized, the firmer the dome feels, and the sprocket with the wheel can press shallower into the body. Conversely, the less pressurization of the cavity, the deeper the sprocket with the wheel presses into the body.

[0069] In one embodiment, a sealed cavity or chamber can be formed by a container closure 80 that is locked downwardly to the frame 90 of the container 70 and the dome edge 84 between the container edge 78 and the frame 90. The cavity or chamber can be pressurized and regulated via an electric pump 116 (or Schrader valve) and an electric valve 118. The process can be controlled by a controller 130. The pump 116 can increase the pressure, and the valve 118 can reduce the pressure. The pressure in the cavity or chamber can prevent the dome 82 from contacting the sprocket 110, so that the dome 82 only contacts the wheel 112. The pressurized dome 82 can allow the sharpness of the sprocket with the wheel to be regulated by the dome 82. The user can adjust the pressure by the controller 130 and / or various programmable settings.

[0070] In operation, the higher the pressure in the cavity, the less intense the massage treatment is, or the less the user will feel the wheel rotating. Conversely, the lower the pressure in the cavity, the more intense the massage treatment is, or the more the user feels the wheel rotating. The pressurized dome 82 can also provide a safety feature for the system 10 because the pressurized dome 82 completely seals the rotating hub motor and the sprocket with the wheel, thereby eliminating any possibility that the user's hair, clothing, skin, body parts, etc. may be pulled, pinched or entangled in the sprocket with the wheel. In one embodiment, if the dome 82 is damaged, punctured or cut, or loses pressure so that the pressure in the cavity is lower than the minimum pressure indicated by the onboard pressure sensor / program, the system 10 or core 50 can completely shut itself down and will not operate until repaired and reset. Typically, any pressure reading below 0.2psi will cause the system 10, core 50 and / or hub motor 100 to shut down.

[0071] In one embodiment, the dome 82 may not be pressurized, but simply formed and positioned so that its shape provides a similar safety barrier. In one embodiment, a hub motor without a dome 82 may be used and the sprocket with a wheel may be exposed. However, alternative safety features should be used with such an embodiment. For example, but not restrictively, a power cut-off switch may be mounted to the container 70 and located at the top and bottom edges of the container top 79 where the sprocket with a wheel is exposed from the container 70, or such a power cut-off switch may be mounted along the circumference of the container top 79, or such a power cut-off switch may be mounted to the frame 90, or any suitable combination of such switches. At the position where the sprocket with a wheel is closest to the container top 79 and / or the frame 90 and / or the dome 82, if any object or body part is stuck in the crease between the wheel and the container top 79, or the container 70, or the frame 90, or the dome 82, the lug feature on the dome 82 or the frame 90 or the container 70 will contact the cut-off switch and cut off the power to the hub motor 100, thereby stopping the rotation of the sprocket with a wheel.

[0072] More specifically refer to Fig.18, the wheel hub motor 100 or the sprocket with the wheel may include various structures. The wheel hub motor 100 may include a motor shaft 102, which may provide a means for rotating a sprocket 110 operably connected to the wheel hub motor 100. The sprocket 110 may include a plurality of wheels 112, which are generally arranged in a straight line around the sprocket 110 (a plurality of wheels 112 are arranged around the sprocket 110 so that the centers of the respective wheels 112 are located in the same plane) and contact the dome 82. In operation, the wheel 112 will provide massage therapy to the user of the system 10. The wheel hub motor 100 may be operably connected to rotate the sprocket 110. The sprocket 110 may then rotate the wheel 112, which may also rotate relative to the sprocket 110 via the wheel axle 114. The wheel 112 may be configured to provide ultra-low friction or zero resistance rotation to resist the force of the user's body pressed by the wheel 112, while still providing linear pressure, rolling, kneading and / or grinding actions. A “sprocket with wheel” may be attached to the geared hub motor 100 , which may be described as the gist of the core 50 in some embodiments.

[0073] The hub motor 100 or sprocket with wheel may have a diameter of about fourteen (14) inches (i.e., about 35 cm). This approximate diameter may be considered a good conformity to the musculature and structure of the human body. Larger diameters may be too flat to be effective, while smaller diameters may be too sharp to be comfortable. The diameters described here should be considered examples and not requirements. The diameters may vary depending on the intended use and desired results.

[0074] More specifically refer to Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , the sprocket 110 may include a plurality of wheels 112 that are operably connected or rotatably connected to the sprocket 110 via axles 114. In one embodiment, the wheels 112 may be arranged and positioned in a linear manner around the sprocket 110. In one embodiment, the wheels 112 may be described as "in-line roller blade" type wheels (solid polyurethane tires with plastic hubs and roller bearings), but may be metal, pneumatic or elastic wheels or other materials or diameters or widths or shapes (e.g., octagonal, rather than circular). In another embodiment, the sprocket 110 may have lobes instead of wheels.

[0075] More specifically refer to Fig.21 , the sprocket 110 may include wheels 112 arranged and positioned in a staggered manner around the sprocket 110, wherein the wheels 112 are not connected to the sprocket 110 in a linear manner (multiple wheels 112 are arranged around the sprocket 110 such that the centers of the wheels 112 are not located in the same plane). Fig.21The arrows in the figure show the paths that the wheels 112 can take during operation. The staggered configuration of the wheels 112 can be used to provide different types of massages. The staggered configuration of the wheels 112 can provide a wider and wobbly massage interface for the user.

[0076] More specifically refer to Fig. 22 In one embodiment, the sprocket 110 may include an offset center axis. The sprocket 110 may have a wheel 112 rotatably attached about the sprocket 110. In operation, as Fig. 22 As shown by the arrows in , the offset center axis can provide a back and forth pulsating motion to the wheel 112.

[0077] More specifically refer to Fig.23A and Fig. 23B In one embodiment, the sprocket 110 may include a main wheel 112 and a secondary wheel 113. The main wheel 112 and the secondary wheel 113 may be operably and rotatably connected to the sprocket via an axle 114. The secondary wheel 113 may be included on either or both sides of the main wheel 112. Typically, the secondary wheel 113 may have a smaller diameter than the main wheel 112. In operation, the sprocket configuration including the main wheel 112 and the secondary wheel 113 may provide a wider massage interface, which may also provide different and / or varying depths. For example, the main wheel 112 may press more into the user's soft tissue than the secondary wheel 113. In addition, the secondary wheel 113 may protect the sprocket 110 from contacting the dome 82.

[0078] More specifically refer to Fig.24 , various sprocket and wheel configurations can still be located under and inside the dome 82. For example, the hub motor 100 and the sprocket with the primary wheel 112 and the secondary wheel 113 can be located under and inside the dome 82. Thus, the dome 82 protects the wheel configuration from contamination or damage, and the dome 82 protects the user of the system 10 from possible injuries caused by the wheel.

[0079] More specifically refer to Fig.25 In one embodiment, a sprocket configuration having primary and secondary wheels may be received within the cavity formed by the receptacle 70 and the dome 82. The core 50 may be operably connected to a carrier 52 which is operably connected to the track 20.

[0080] In various embodiments, various configurations of sprocket 110 and wheel 112 may be used alone or together. Fig.21 The sprocket configuration shown can be used with Fig. 22 The sprocket configuration shown combines, therefore, to provide a massage experience that can be described as both wavy and pulsating.

[0081] It can also be noted that the system 10 can be designed to allow for the replacement of various types of sprockets 110 or various sprocket configurations, since different types of sprockets 110 can be mounted in the container 70 using the mounting member 104. Therefore, various types of sprocket configurations and wheel configurations can be considered interchangeable within the system 10. This can greatly increase the types of massage experiences that the system 10 can provide to the user.

[0082] More specifically refer to Fig.26 , the configuration of the track 20 can take a variety of forms. For example, in one embodiment, both the powered reel 34 and the weighted reel 44 are operably connected to one end of the track 20. In this configuration, the track 20 can be mounted to a wall in a manner such that the bottom of the track 20 is substantially flush with the floor. In another embodiment, the powered reel 34 can be located at the top end (or distal end) of the track 20, while the weighted reel 44 can be located at the bottom end (or proximal end) of the track 20. The embodiment or configuration of the track 20 can be designed in any manner preferred by the user or required by the environment in which the system 10 will be used.

[0083] More specifically refer to Figure 27 to Figure 29 , the sprocket 110 and wheel configuration can be provided in a handheld configuration 120 or handheld device 120. The handheld device 120 can include a stem 122 that can provide primary structural support for the other components. The handheld device 120 can include a handle 124 that a user can use and manipulate the handheld device 120 with. The handheld device 120 can include a stem 126 that provides support and connection between the stem 122 and the sprocket 110. In the handheld device 120, the sprocket 110 can include a wheel 112 that is operably and rotatably connected to the sprocket 110 via a wheel axle 114. In the handheld device 120, the sprocket 110 can include a wheel 112 that is operably connected to the sprocket 110 in such a manner that the wheel 112 does not rotate relative to the sprocket 110, although the sprocket 110 still rotates relative to the stem 126.

[0084] Various embodiments of the handheld device 120 may include the various sprocket and wheel configurations described herein. For example, but not limitation, the handheld device 120 may include a Fig.21 The sprocket and wheel structure described above, or as Fig.23A and Fig. 23B The sprocket and wheel configurations described, or a combination thereof. In operation, the handheld device 120 can be used to perform peristaltic massage therapy, thereby generating peristaltic waves in a subject receiving physical therapy.

[0085] Reference Fig.30, the controller 130 may include a variety of structures and configurations. The controller 130 may include a shaft 136 or handle 136 that serves as a handle for the controller 130. The controller 130 may include a trigger 132 that may be used to operate and / or engage various functions with respect to the system 10. For example, but not by way of limitation, the trigger 132 may be configured to control the operation and speed of the wheel 112. Depressing the trigger 132 may simply turn the hub motor 100 and the connected wheel 112 on and off. Further depressing the trigger 132 may control the rotational speed of the hub motor 100 and the wheel 112. The controller 130 may include a touch screen 134, or screen 134 or display 134. The touch screen 134 may be formatted and configured to control and / or set nearly any and all functions associated with the system 10. For example, but not by way of limitation, the touch screen 134 may set the rotational speed of the hub motor 100 and the wheel. The touch screen 134 may set the amount of compressed air in the cavity of the core 50. The touch screen 134 can be set to change the rotation speed and / or pressure within the cavity over time during the massage. The controller 130 can include a controller wire 138 or cable 138 that can be used as a means for sending and receiving input from the controller 130 to the core 50 and / or system 10. The controller 130 can be configured and formatted to monitor, display, and control substantially all functions of the system 10.

[0086] In one embodiment, the controller 130 can be operated by the user in a manner that allows the user to select a program and start the program by activating the trigger 132. The user may need to pull the trigger to start the program and rotate the sprocket with the wheel. Releasing the trigger 132 or lowering the controller 130 can cause the sprocket with the wheel to stop completely, which can be considered as another safety feature. In one embodiment, the controller 130 can include a digital display and a PCB controller, which can also include various technologies, i.e., Bluetooth, one or more cameras, one or more forward-looking infrared cameras, one or more speakers, microphones, one or more sensors, one or more terminal connectors, ports, handles, trigger systems, etc. The trigger 132 can be configured to allow a speed range of 0 to 100%, or a pre-programmed speed range depending on the level at which the trigger is pressed. The digital display and the controller PCB can display all program options, i.e., free mode, Japanese massage (shiatzu), fascia impact, forward, reverse, oscillation, infrared, etc. The controller 130 can also be configured to show training videos, graphics, animations, warnings, disclaimers, timing, levels, history, etc. Such features can also be used for personal user accounts.

[0087] The controller 130 may be configured as a "virtual therapist" that guides the user through individual massage therapy sessions. The controller 130 may also include diagnostic sensor technology that allows monitoring of heart rate, blood oxygen, blood pressure, blood sugar, expansion factor, etc. The controller 130 may be configured like a "tablet" and may control the system 10 directly via the controller cable 138, or may control the system 10 indirectly via a WiFi or Bluetooth connection.

[0088] The method of using the system 10 may include setting up a track 20, wherein the track includes a powered reel 34 at one end of the track and a weighted reel 44 at an opposite end of the track, the track 20 being mounted to a wall (wall portion), and setting up a core 50, wherein the core 50 includes a carrier 52, a container 70, a dome 82, and a frame 90, the frame 90 and the container 70 being removably connected with the dome 82 located between the container 70 and the frame 90 to form a cavity, the carrier 52 and the container 70 being operably and rotatably connected, wherein there is a chain with wheels The wheel hub motor 100 is operably connected and accommodated in the cavity, and the carrier 52 is operably connected to the track 20 in a manner that allows the carrier 52 and the core 50 to move along the track 20, and a controller 130 is provided to control the functions of the wheel hub motor 100 and the sprocket with the wheel, and the core 50 is positioned along the track 20, and the user positions the user's soft tissue adjacent to the dome 82 of the core 50, and rotates the sprocket with the wheel, and massages the user's soft tissue through the dome by the sprocket with the wheel. This system of sprockets with wheels and flexible domes can provide peristaltic wave action to the user's muscle tissue.

[0089] The method can also include arranging pump 116 and valve 118 in the cavity of core 50, and pressurizing the cavity, wherein pressurization is controlled by controller. The method can also include if the pressurization (pressure) of the cavity drops to zero, or drops to any pressure below 0.2psi, then stop the rotation of the sprocket with wheel. The method also includes arranging the light array 92 that is operably connected to frame 90, and light array 92 includes infrared light source 96. The method also includes the ability that makes the sprocket with wheel rotate in forward and reverse direction. The method can also include the ability that the sprocket with wheel is interchanged with different sprockets with wheel, wherein compared with the original sprocket with wheel, the different sprockets with wheel have separate and different wheel configurations.

[0090] In operation, the hub motor 100 or geared hub 100 can provide any desired combination of torque and RPM. For example, but not by way of limitation, certain embodiments can provide approximately 0 to 300 rpm. Certain embodiments can provide approximately 0 to 600 rpm, depending on the gear and transmission issues. The hub motor 100 can be described as a high torque geared hub unit that has rotational stability and relatively low RPM throughout its speed range. Without a gear reduction feature or gear reduction transmission in the hub motor 100, the hub motor 100 will typically produce too high an RPM, and will produce very little torque at low speeds (lower amperages), and will be unstable in its rotation against forces, or too high a speed to be safe and therapeutic. The user is able to control the speed of the wheel 112 and select from a variety of programs, i.e., slow-fast-slow, forward-reverse-forward, etc.

[0091] The core 50 or hub motor 100 can be configured to provide three speed ranges. The low speed can have high torque and be very stable due to the gear reduction hub, which may be best for heavy scraping or deep grinding or kneading of muscle tissue. The low speed range can be described as including speeds of about five (5) rpm to about forty (40) rpm. The low speed can allow the user to press deeply into damaged muscle tissue, ligaments and tendons, and / or break up scar tissue. The medium speed range is best for fascia, fat layers and connective tissue and skin between the muscle and the top layer of skin. The medium speed range can be described as including speeds of about fifty (50) rpm to about one hundred and twenty (120) rpm. The medium speed can be used to break up or treat fascia to make it smooth. When fascia is tight, the connective tissue pulls on the subcutaneous fat layer, making it look bumpy. The medium speed can break up this connective tissue in the fascia, similar to how it works on muscle, pulling blood and tissue through and along the fascia in a linear orientation. This can result in fascia remodeling, making the fascia looser, which is a healthier fascia. The relaxed, uniform fascia is not unevenly stretched across the fat layer, so it appears smooth and sleek. This may be described as fascia percussion or cellulite treatment. High speed may be optimal for massage. The high speed range may be described as including speeds of about one hundred fifty (150) rpm to about three hundred (300) rpm. High speed may send high frequency pressure wave compression across all layers of tissue, creating a therapeutic massage. Whether high, medium or low speed, all of these treatments are peristaltic in nature.

[0092] In one embodiment, other additional therapeutic systems may be added to the core 50 to enhance, multiply and / or supplement the grinding action and massage therapy, ie, ultrasound, vibration, subsonic, thermal radiation, electrical stimulation, etc.

[0093] In one embodiment, the hub motor 100 can be outside the wheel, attached to a gearbox that is attached to a sprocket with a wheel. The hub motor 100 and planetary gear reduction transmission can be housed inside the wheel hub itself, with the sprocket with a wheel connected to the hub motor. The hub motor and sprocket with a wheel can be mounted to a housing or container 70 that holds the electronics including a PCB, air pump 116, and electronic valve 118 in addition to the manual Schrader valve and pressure relief valve.

[0094] In one embodiment, the hub motor and the sprocket with wheel may protrude from the housing 70 or container 70 and be mounted to the housing 70. The hub motor 100 and the sprocket with wheel may be completely covered by the dome 82 or bubble 82.

[0095] The system 10 can provide benefits that can heal muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, fascia and / or skin. Human muscle tissue benefits from increased blood flow to promote healing. The system 10 described herein can provide a peristaltic pump action (positive displacement principle, also known as peristaltic waves or pumps), wherein each roller 112 pushes blood through the muscles and tissues in a linear motion. This is very different from a reciprocating massage device or Thera Gun, which is popular but simply hits the muscles or tissues. This is also different from a massage device that simply vibrates the muscles and tissues. When the wheel 112 rotates against a body part or area, the wheel 112 provides a therapeutic kneading or grinding action in a linear manner, thereby pulling and pushing blood and other tissues through the muscle tissue and along the axis of the muscle tissue.

[0096] However, other angles are also beneficial, including vertical grinding actions. When the system 10 is deployed in this lateral direction, scar and muscle tissue can be broken down very effectively. Muscles that have been previously damaged (or damaged multiple times) may be filled with scar tissue from injury or tearing and pass through the repair phase and move to the reconstruction phase. In this case, an intense massage therapy may be required to return to the repair phase and then back to the reconstruction phase. This type of intense massage therapy can be labor intensive, making the current system 10 more suitable for completing such massage therapy because it requires less effort while maintaining great effectiveness.

[0097] Whether treatment is for new injury or old injury, external massage, manipulation and scraping may be extremely difficult and labor-intensive for the therapist, because this is usually done by hand. This is especially true in the deep area with thick, heavy muscle tissue, such as back, gluteal tendon, groin, quadriceps, calf, shoulder, etc. System 10 described herein works by stroking the affected muscle from one end to the other end in a manner similar to that of a therapist with various modes and techniques. System 10 can also affect surrounding and connected muscles and joints. System 10 can improve the healing ability of the body in the following manner: use grinding and scraping massage therapy to promote stronger macrophages, fibroblasts, satellite cells / myoblasts and connective tissue activation. System 10 can also promote the development of blood vessels and nerves in the repair stage. However, in the remodeling stage, massage, manipulation and scraping may be extremely valuable in increasing and promoting the direction of newly formed connective tissue and scar tissue consistent with the relevant muscles.

[0098] Typically, the core 50, more precisely the sprocket with wheels, massages, pushes or scrapes muscles, tendons, fascia and connective tissue in a vigorous, linear, stable and ultra-long-lasting manner. Thus providing greater intensity, volume, depth, width and repeatability than a therapist using hands, scrapers or massage guns. The system 10 can also be used to loosen and reconstruct joints, ligaments, muscles and tendons by generating and applying pressure waves at all speeds, which can allow the body to release unnatural joint positions or joint impacts in the spine, hips or shoulders. The system 10 can also be used to massage the feet, hands, upper neck and the entire spine using high-intensity pressure waves, which help increase blood flow to the extremities and provide joint loosening and reconstruction and activation.

[0099] The present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from its basic functions or essential features. The described embodiments should be considered in all respects to be illustrative only and not restrictive. All changes within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the illustrative embodiments will be included within its scope.

Claims

1. A peristaltic massage therapeutic device, comprising: container; a hub motor operably connected to and located within the container, wherein the hub motor further comprises a sprocket and a plurality of wheels, and the sprocket is operably and rotatably connected to the hub motor, the plurality of wheels are operably and rotatably connected to the sprocket, and the hub motor is capable of rotating the sprocket in a manner that enables the plurality of wheels to generate peristaltic waves in the soft tissue of a user; a dome connected to the container in a manner that encloses the hub motor, the sprocket, and the plurality of wheels within a cavity formed by the container and the dome; a frame removably connected to the container in a manner that seals the cavity with the dome positioned between the frame and the container; as well as A controller is used to control the functions of the wheel hub motor.

2. The massage therapy device according to claim 1, further comprising: a track mounted to the wall; as well as A carrier wherein the container is operably rotatably connected to the carrier and the carrier is operably connected to the track in a manner that allows the carrier and the container to move along the track.

3. The massage therapy device according to claim 2, wherein: The track also includes a powered reel at one end of the track and a weighted reel at an opposite end of the track.

4. The massage therapy device according to claim 3, wherein: The carrier and the container are removably positionable along the track.

5. The massage therapy device according to claim 1, further comprising: A pump and a valve are operably arranged in the container in a manner capable of pressurizing the cavity, and the pressurization can be controlled by the controller.

6. The massage therapy device according to claim 1, further comprising: A light emitting array is operably connected to the frame, wherein the light emitting array includes a light source, a heat sink surrounding the light source, and a lens covering the light source.

7. The massage therapy device according to claim 6, wherein: The light emitting array includes a plurality of light sources, and each light source is an LED infrared light source.

8. The massage therapy device according to claim 5, wherein: The controller includes a touch screen, and the controller provides selection of massage therapy programs.

9. The massage therapy device according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of wheels include a main wheel operatively and rotatably connected to the sprocket and a secondary wheel operatively and rotatably connected to the sprocket and located at both sides of the main wheel.

10. A device for providing massage therapy to soft tissue, comprising: a container, wherein the container is formed to accommodate a wheel hub motor; the wheel hub motor operably connected to and located within the container, wherein the wheel hub motor further comprises a sprocket and a plurality of wheels, the sprocket being operably and rotatably connected to the wheel hub motor, the plurality of wheels being operably and rotatably connected to the sprocket, and the wheel hub motor being capable of rotating the sprocket in a forward direction and a reverse direction; a dome connected to the container in a manner that encloses the hub motor, the sprocket, and the plurality of wheels within a cavity formed by the container and the dome; a frame removably connected to the container in a manner that seals the cavity with the dome positioned between the frame and the container; a pump and a valve, each of which is operably arranged within the container in a manner capable of pressurizing the cavity; as well as A controller is provided for controlling the function of the wheel hub motor and the pressurization of the cavity.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising: a track mounted to the wall, wherein the track further comprises a powered reel and a weighted reel at one end of the track; as well as A carrier wherein the containers are operably rotatably connected to the carrier and the carrier is operably connected to the track in a manner that allows the carrier and the containers to move along the track and be removably positionable at regular intervals along the track.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising: A light emitting array is operably connected to the frame, wherein the light emitting array includes a plurality of light sources, a heat sink surrounding each light source, and a lens covering each light source.

13. The device according to claim 12, wherein: Each of the plurality of light sources is an LED infrared light source.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein: The controller includes a touch screen, and the controller provides selection of massage therapy programs.

15. A method for providing physical therapy, comprising: providing a track, wherein the track includes a powered reel and a weighted reel, the track being mounted to a wall; Providing a core, wherein the core includes a carrier, a container, a dome, and a frame, and the frame and the container are removably connected with the dome located between the container and the frame to form a cavity, the carrier and the container are operably and rotatably connected, a hub motor including a sprocket with a wheel is operably connected and received in the cavity, and the carrier is operably connected to the track in a manner that allows the carrier and the core to move along the track; providing a controller, the controller controlling the functions of the hub motor and the sprocket with wheel; positioning the core along the track; positioning, by a user, soft tissue of the user adjacent to the dome of the core; rotating the sprocket with the wheel; and Peristaltic waves are generated in the soft tissue of the user via the dome by the sprocket with the wheel.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: Disposing a pump and a valve in the cavity of the core; After positioning the core along the track, the cavity is pressurized, wherein pressurization is controlled and monitored by the controller.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: If the pressure in the cavity drops below 0.2 psi, rotation of the sprocket with wheel is stopped.

18. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: providing a light emitting array operably connected to the frame; as well as Infrared light is provided to the user's soft tissue by the light emitting array.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein: Generating peristaltic waves in the soft tissue of the user further includes rotating the sprocket with the wheel in a forward direction and rotating the sprocket with the wheel in a reverse direction.

20. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The sprocket with wheel can be interchanged with a different sprocket with wheel.

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