Variable shape stimulation device for body stimulation

Abstract

The invention relates to a variable-shape stimulation device (1) for body stimulation, comprising a rotatably mounted drive shaft (10) which is designed to be driven by a motor unit (20) about an axis of rotation (D), the drive shaft (10) having at least one pivot bearing unit (40) which is connected to the drive shaft (10) in a torque-proof manner; and at least one oscillating body (30) having at least one bearing receiving unit (50), at least one oscillating bearing unit (40) being arranged on the bearing receiving unit for supporting the at least one oscillating body (30). According to the invention, the at least one pivot bearing unit (40) defines a tilt axis (N) which is inclined at a tilt angle with respect to the rotational axis (D), and the at least one pivot bearing unit (40) is designed to pivotally support the pivot body (30) with respect to the drive shaft (10) via the at least one bearing receiving unit (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a shape-variable stimulation device for body stimulation, the shape-variable stimulation device having a rotatably supported drive shaft, the drive shaft being configured to be driven by a motor unit around a rotation axis, wherein the drive shaft has at least one swivel bearing unit, the swivel bearing unit being connected to the drive shaft in a torque-proof manner, and the shape-variable stimulation device having at least one swinging body having a bearing receiving unit, the swivel bearing unit being arranged at the bearing receiving unit for supporting at least one swinging body. Background Art

[0002] No. 10,350,135 B2 discloses a stimulation device having a bent drive shaft, at the end of which a sliding element is provided which contacts a guide groove in a massage body of the stimulation device so that the massage body moves toward and away from the base end of the stimulation device.

[0003] The disadvantage of this type of stimulation device is that, due to the curved drive shaft, relatively large bending moments and relatively large radial forces act on the bearings of the drive shaft. In addition, the curved drive shaft causes that the bearings of the drive shaft can only be arranged at a relatively large distance from the contact point of the sliding element with the guide groove. Therefore, the bearings of the drive shaft are also subjected to significant loads caused by the generated bending moments and generated radial forces for the reasons mentioned above.

[0004] In order to achieve a long service life of the stimulation device despite relatively large bending moments and relatively large radial forces, the bearings of the drive shaft are dimensioned to be relatively large, that is to say in particular to have a relatively large diameter and / or a relatively large width. However, this runs counter to the design goal of making such a stimulation device as easy to use as possible in order to enable suitable use as a stimulation device for body massage and stimulation.

[0005] Furthermore, such stimulation devices can only change the shape of the massage body in one direction at a time or time interval, that is to say, for example, a movement of the massage body towards the base end or a movement of the massage body away from the base end. In this regard, known stimulation devices can usually only perform bending movements or extension movements at a time or time interval.

[0006] However, for an improved massage and stimulation experience, it may be preferred that the massage body performs shape changes in different directions at one time or time interval, so that, for example, the lower section of the massage body moves toward the root end (i.e. bends), while the upper section of the massage body moves away from the root end (i.e. stretches) at the same time or time interval. Summary of the invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a stimulation device which reduces or eliminates the disadvantages of existing solutions. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation device which has a long service life and is at the same time designed to be easy to operate. Furthermore, in particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation device which enables shape changes in different directions at the same time or in the same time interval. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a stimulation device with the help of which an improved stimulation effect at and / or in the body can be achieved.

[0008] The object of the present invention is achieved according to a shape-changing stimulation device for body stimulation according to the present invention, which has: a rotatably supported drive shaft, which is designed to be driven by a motor unit around a rotation axis, wherein the drive shaft has at least one swivel bearing unit, which is connected to the drive shaft in a torque-proof manner, and at least one swinging body, which has at least one bearing receiving unit, and at least one swinging bearing unit is arranged at the bearing receiving unit for supporting at least one swinging body, characterized in that at least one swinging bearing unit defines an inclination axis, which is inclined at an inclination angle relative to the rotation axis, and at least one swinging bearing unit is designed to support the swinging body via at least one bearing receiving unit relative to the drive shaft in a swinging manner. The stimulation device is particularly designed for introduction into a body cavity. Preferably, the stimulation device is designed as a vibrator.

[0009] In particular, the object of the present invention is achieved with the aid of a shape-variable stimulation device as described at the outset, wherein at least one swivel bearing unit thereof defines a tilting axis which is tilted at an inclination angle relative to the rotation axis, and wherein at least one swivel bearing unit is configured to support the swivel body in a swivel manner relative to the drive shaft via at least one bearing receiving unit.

[0010] The stimulation device extends in the longitudinal direction along the rotation axis of the drive shaft. It is particularly preferred that the stimulation device extends in the longitudinal direction between a hand unit and a head unit of the stimulation device. The hand unit is designed to hold the stimulation device. The head unit is especially designed to massage the body.

[0011] Such a stimulation device according to the invention can generally have a deformable housing. Such a housing in particular defines a device interior space that can be sealed watertightly and / or airtightly with respect to the environment. The housing can be made of an elastic material, such as silicone, for example. The housing preferably surrounds a rotatably supported drive shaft and / or a motor unit and / or at least one swivel bearing unit and / or at least one swivel body for the application of the stimulation device.

[0012] The shape-variable stimulation device according to the present invention has a rotatably supported drive shaft, which is configured to be driven by a motor unit around an axis of rotation. For this reason, the drive shaft can be connected to the motor unit in a torque-resistant manner so that the rotary motion of the motor unit is transmitted to the drive shaft. It is preferred that a transmission is provided between the motor unit and the drive shaft, which mechanically couples the motor unit and the drive shaft so as to load the drive shaft with a desired rotational speed and / or a desired torque. The motor unit is in particular an electric motor, which can be fed by an electrical supply unit, such as a battery, a storage battery and / or a low-voltage power grid.

[0013] The hand unit of the stimulation device usually has a motor unit and an electrical supply unit in order to supply the motor unit with the electrical power required for operation. In particular, it can also be proposed that a transmission device is provided in the hand unit, which transmits the rotation speed and / or torque of the motor unit to the drive shaft with a corresponding speed-up transmission ratio or speed-down transmission ratio. In particular, it can be understood that the drive shaft is rotatably supported relative to the hand unit in the direction of rotation around the rotation axis of the drive shaft. In addition, the drive shaft is preferably fixedly arranged relative to the hand unit in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis.

[0014] In particular, one or more of the pendulums can be arranged in the head unit of the stimulation device. In particular, it is provided that the drive shaft extends from the motor unit to the head unit.

[0015] The drive shaft has at least one swivel bearing unit, which is connected to the drive shaft in a torque-proof manner. Preferably, the at least one swivel bearing unit is connected to the drive shaft in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner. It is particularly preferred that the swivel bearing unit is fixedly connected to the drive shaft in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis. Preferably, the at least one swivel bearing unit is connected to the drive shaft in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner in the longitudinal direction. It is particularly preferred that the drive shaft and the at least one swivel bearing unit are formed in one piece. It can be particularly preferred that the drive shaft and / or the at least one swivel bearing unit are formed as a casting, in particular as an injection-molded part.

[0016] In particular, it is proposed that at least one swivel bearing unit has a corresponding shaft receptacle. The shaft receptacle is configured to be connected to the shaft. It can be particularly preferred that the shaft receptacle of at least one swivel bearing unit is connected to the drive shaft in a material fit and / or form fit and / or force fit manner.

[0017] Preferably, the drive shaft and / or at least one swivel bearing unit are made of steel and / or plastic. It may be preferred that the drive shaft is made of steel and the at least one swivel bearing unit is made of plastic, or vice versa. Alternatively, it may be preferred that the drive shaft and the at least one swivel bearing unit are formed of the same material. In addition, it may be preferred that the drive shaft and / or the at least one swivel bearing unit are coated. In particular, at least one swivel bearing unit is made of a material with a low friction coefficient or is coated with said material. Suitable materials with a low friction coefficient for sliding bearings are, for example, PTFE synthetic materials or POM synthetic materials or bronze-based alloys, for example sliding bearings made of solid bronze, sintered bronze or rolled bronze. At least one swivel bearing unit can also be made of a fiber composite material, for example, polyester fibers and / or glass fibers, which is embedded in a matrix, for example, a matrix made of epoxy resin.

[0018] A plurality of swivel bearing units are preferably arranged spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction of the drive shaft or the axis of rotation of the drive shaft. Preferably, a plurality of swivel bearing units are arranged spaced apart from one another equidistantly in the longitudinal direction.

[0019] In addition, the shape-variable stimulation device has at least one swinging body, which has at least one bearing receiving unit. Preferably, at least one bearing receiving unit is arranged on the swinging body. Preferably, at least one bearing receiving unit is connected to the swinging body in a torque-proof manner. In addition or alternatively, it can be preferred that at least one bearing receiving unit is fixedly connected to the swinging body in at least one translational direction. In particular, at least one bearing receiving unit is connected to the swinging body in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or material-fitting manner. Preferably, at least one bearing receiving unit and the swinging body are formed in one piece. It can be particularly preferred that the swinging body and / or at least one bearing receiving unit are formed as a casting, in particular as an injection-molded part.

[0020] Preferably, at least one swivel bearing body and / or at least one bearing receiving unit is made of steel and / or plastic. It may be preferred that at least one swivel bearing body is made of steel and at least one bearing receiving unit is made of plastic, or vice versa. Alternatively, it may be preferred that the bearing receiving unit is formed of the same material when multiple bearing receiving units are provided. In addition, it may be preferred that at least one bearing receiving unit is coated. In particular, at least one bearing receiving unit is formed of a material with a low friction coefficient or is coated with the material. Suitable materials with a low friction coefficient for sliding bearings are, for example, PTFE synthetic materials or POM synthetic materials or bronze-based alloys, for example sliding bearings made of solid bronze, sintered bronze or rolled bronze. At least one bearing receiving unit can also be made of a fiber composite material, for example, polyester fibers and / or glass fibers, which is embedded in a matrix, for example, a matrix made of epoxy resin.

[0021] It may be preferred that the shape-variable stimulation device has a plurality of oscillating bodies. The shape-variable stimulation device in particular has two or three oscillating bodies. The oscillating bodies are arranged spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the drive shaft or the axis of rotation of the drive shaft. In particular, the oscillating bodies are arranged spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0022] At least one swivel bearing unit is provided for supporting at least one swivel body at at least one bearing receiving unit. In particular, the bearing receiving unit of the swivel body is associated with the swivel bearing unit. Preferably, the swivel body is associated with the swivel bearing unit. Furthermore, it may be preferred that two or more swivel bearing units are associated with the swivel body. Preferably, at least one swivel bearing unit is in point-wise, line-wise or surface-wise contact with at least one bearing receiving unit. In particular, at least one swivel bearing unit and at least one bearing receiving unit are configured as sliding bearings. Preferably, when the drive shaft is driven by the motor unit, at least one swivel bearing unit slides relative to at least one bearing receiving unit.

[0023] Preferably, at least one swivel bearing unit and at least one bearing receiving unit are configured as axial and / or radial sliding bearings. If at least one swivel bearing unit and at least one bearing receiving unit are configured as axial bearings, at least one bearing receiving unit has a circumferential flange or is configured as a flange. In particular, at least one bearing receiving unit is configured as an axial bearing as a bushing. At least one swivel bearing unit is configured as an axial bearing, in particular in a plate-shaped or annular shape. As an axial bearing, the flange of at least one bearing receiving unit is in sliding contact with at least one swivel bearing unit configured in a plate-shaped or annular shape. If at least one swivel bearing unit and at least one bearing receiving unit are configured as radial bearings, at least one bearing receiving unit and at least one swivel bearing unit are preferably configured in a cylindrical shape. As radial bearings, at least one cylindrically configured bearing receiving unit and at least one cylindrically configured swivel bearing unit are in sliding contact.

[0024] At least one swivel bearing unit defines a tilting axis, which is tilted at an inclination angle relative to the rotation axis of the drive shaft. Preferably, the tilting axis is oriented such that the tilting axis intersects the rotation axis. It is particularly preferred that in the case of a plurality of swivel bearing units, the respectively defined tilting axes intersect the rotation axis. It may be preferred that in the case of a plurality of swivel bearing units, the inclination angles of the tilting axes differ from one another, at least partially from one another. It is particularly preferred that in the case of a plurality of swivel bearing units, the inclination angles of the tilting axes are identical.

[0025] The inclination angle of the inclination axis is in particular the angle between the rotation axis and the inclination axis when the inclination axis intersects the rotation axis or the inclination axis intersects the rotation axis after the parallel displacement. Preferably, the inclination angle is at least 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 75° or 90°. Furthermore, it is preferred that the inclination angle is at most 5°, 10°, 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 60°, 75° or 90°.

[0026] Preferably, the tilting axes of two adjacently arranged swivel bearing units extend so that they do not intersect. It may be preferred that two adjacently arranged swivel bearing units are arranged so that their tilting axes are oriented so that they intersect, in particular at an angle corresponding to the sum of the tilting angles of the two tilting axes. Furthermore, it may be preferred that two or more tilting axes extend parallel to each other. In particular, the swivel bearing units are arranged so that the corresponding tilting axes extend offset around the rotation axis by a rotation angle difference. The rotation angle difference is the angle between the tilting axes of two swivel bearing units that are adjacently arranged in the longitudinal direction. In this regard, the rotation angle difference describes the angle at which one tilting axis of a swivel body is arranged to rotate around the rotation axis at said angle relative to the tilting axis of an adjacently arranged swivel body.

[0027] Preferably, in a shape-variable stimulation device having two pendulums, the inclination axes of one or more pendulum bearing units associated with one of the two pendulums are oriented offset relative to the inclination axes of one or more pendulum bearing units associated with the other of the two pendulums in the rotational direction of the drive shaft around the rotation axis with a rotational angle difference of at least 45°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270° or 315° and at most with a rotational angle difference of 45°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270° or 315°.

[0028] At least one swivel bearing unit is configured to support at least one swivel body in a swivel manner relative to the drive shaft via at least one bearing receiving unit. The swivel body is supported in a swivel manner relative to the rotation axis at an inclination angle in relation to an inclination angle defined by the swivel bearing unit. The direction of the inclination of the respective swivel body changes in relation to the rotation angle of the respective swivel bearing unit.

[0029] Preferably, the at least one oscillating body is fixed in the circumferential direction about the rotation axis relative to the drive shaft. In particular, for the oscillating support of the at least one oscillating body relative to the drive shaft, it is provided that the at least one oscillating body is arranged statically in the rotation direction of the drive shaft. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the at least one oscillating body mounted in a oscillating manner is arranged statically relative to the drive shaft in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis.

[0030] However, it is preferred that at least one swinging body supported in a swinging manner performs a swinging motion during operation of the stimulation device in relation to the rotation angle of a drive shaft that rotates around the rotation axis during operation. In particular, the swinging motion of at least one swinging body is defined so that at least one swinging body is arranged coaxially with the tilting axis of at least one swing bearing unit. In particular, it can be understood that at least one swinging body is configured to perform only a swinging motion but not a rotational motion around the rotation axis. The swinging motion of the swinging body causes a shape change of the stimulation device. The arrangement of multiple swinging bodies causes a shape change of the stimulation device in different directions at the same time or in the same time interval in a particularly advantageous manner.

[0031] The at least one oscillating body is arranged relative to the drive shaft in such a way that the oscillating body does not perform a rotational movement about the rotation axis. However, the at least one oscillating body is arranged relative to the drive shaft in such a way that the at least one oscillating body performs a oscillating movement with respect to the drive shaft or at least one oscillating bearing unit during operation of the stimulation device.

[0032] During operation, the rotating drive shaft causes a rotation of at least one swivel bearing unit and thus a rotation of the tilting axis defined by the corresponding swivel bearing unit. When the drive shaft rotates by 360° about the axis of rotation, the tilting axis describes the outer side of a cone, which is particularly oriented rotationally symmetrically with respect to the axis of rotation. The invention is therefore characterized by at least one swivel body, which is supported at an angle of inclination relative to the axis of rotation by means of at least one swivel bearing unit. It is preferably provided that the tilting angle is constant regardless of the rotation angle of the at least one swivel bearing unit. In particular, it is provided that the tilting axis of the at least one swivel bearing unit rotating about the drive shaft defines a side surface of the cone.

[0033] Therefore, the disadvantages of existing solutions can be reduced or even eliminated by the stimulation device according to the present invention. In particular, the embodiment according to the present invention of the stimulation device can realize a particularly space-saving and wear-free support for performing a swinging movement of the stimulation device in multiple directions at the same time or in the same time interval, that is to say a change of shape. In particular, the wear-free support of the oscillating body relative to the drive shaft causes a relatively long service life of the stimulation device. In addition, the described arrangement of the oscillating body relative to the drive shaft causes that the support is subjected to low loads, which on the one hand also has a positive effect on the service life and on the other hand can realize a particularly easy-to-operate design of the stimulation device.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device, the drive shaft is a linear drive shaft. The linear drive shaft has no bending in particular. In particular, the bending of the linear drive shaft is zero. In particular, the manufacture and installation of the linear drive shaft are simpler and more cost-effective than a curved drive shaft. In addition, this linear drive shaft can have the following advantages: the bending load is minimal.

[0035] In addition or alternatively, in the preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device, it is proposed that the drive shaft has a polygonal shaft cross section. The polygonal shaft cross section is especially a multi-angle cross section. For example, the polygonal shaft cross section is a cross section of a triangle, quadrangle, pentagon, hexagon, etc. It can be preferred that the shaft cross section is configured as a star-shaped or gear-shaped cross section.

[0036] Preferably, at least one swivel bearing unit is designed to receive a drive shaft having a polygonal shaft cross section in a form-fitting manner. Preferably, the shaft receiving portion is designed as a polygonal receiving cross section. In particular, the polygonal receiving cross section is a multi-angle cross section. For example, the polygonal receiving cross section is a cross section of a triangle, a quadrangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, etc. It can be preferred that the receiving cross section is designed as a star-shaped or gear-shaped cross section.

[0037] This enables a positive connection of the drive shaft to the motor unit. In addition, the drive shaft can be connected to the swivel bearing unit in a particularly simple manner in a rotationally fixed manner. As a result, torque can be transmitted in a particularly suitable manner.

[0038] In another preferred development of the shape-variable stimulation device, the pivot bearing unit has a pivot bearing surface which is arranged obliquely relative to the rotation axis. In particular, the pivot bearing surface is configured to pivotally support the pivot body relative to the drive shaft via at least one bearing receiving unit.

[0039] The swivel bearing surface inclined relative to the rotation axis intersects the rotation axis at an inclination angle, which is greater than 0° and less than 90°. Preferably, the swivel bearing surface inclined relative to the rotation axis does not extend parallel to the rotation axis. Furthermore, it is preferred that the swivel bearing surface inclined relative to the rotation axis does not intersect the rotation axis orthogonally. In particular, the swivel bearing surface is arranged inclined relative to the rotation axis at an inclination angle.

[0040] It may be preferred that the swivel bearing surface comprises one or more face segments without curvature and one or more face segments with curvature. Preferably, the one or more face segments without curvature extend orthogonally to the tilting axis. Furthermore, it is preferred that the one or more face segments with curvature extend parallel to, in particular coaxially with respect to, the tilting axis.

[0041] Furthermore, in a preferred refinement of the shape-variable stimulation device, it is proposed that the pivot bearing surface has a cylindrical outer side-shaped pivot bearing surface, which extends coaxially with the tilt axis. Additionally or alternatively, the pivot bearing surface in the preferred refinement of the shape-variable stimulation device has a plate-shaped pivot bearing surface, which extends orthogonally to the tilt axis.

[0042] Preferably, the swivel bearing surface of the outer shape of the cylinder is a surface corresponding to the side surface of the cylinder or to at least a section of the side surface of the cylinder. It is particularly preferred that the swivel bearing surface of the outer shape of the cylinder has a constant curvature. The plate-shaped swivel bearing surface is preferably a flat surface. In particular, the plate-shaped swivel bearing surface is circular. Preferably, the plate-shaped swivel bearing surface is the end surface of the cylinder or to at least a section of the end surface of the cylinder. The plate-shaped swivel bearing surface is preferably a disk-shaped bearing surface.

[0043] It is particularly preferred that the cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surface extends from the plate-shaped swivel bearing surface. Preferably, the cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surface extends orthogonally to the plate-shaped swivel bearing surface. It may be preferred that the swivel bearing surface is alternately composed of the cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surface and the plate-shaped swivel bearing surface. It may be particularly preferred that the swivel bearing surface has a plurality of cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surfaces and / or a plurality of plate-shaped swivel bearing surfaces.

[0044] It can be provided in a preferred manner that the swivel bearing unit has a plurality of swivel bearing surfaces of cylindrical outer sides. It can be particularly preferred here that a plurality of swivel bearing surfaces of cylindrical outer sides are arranged spaced apart from one another.

[0045] Furthermore, it can be preferred that the swivel bearing unit has a plurality of plate-shaped swivel bearing surfaces. It can be particularly preferred that the plurality of plate-shaped swivel bearing surfaces are arranged spaced apart from one another. In a preferred refinement of the stimulation device, the swivel bearing unit can have two plate-shaped swivel bearing surfaces facing one another. Furthermore, it can be preferred that the swivel bearing unit additionally or alternatively has two plate-shaped swivel bearing surfaces facing away from one another.

[0046] According to a further preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device, the pivot bearing unit has a pivot bearing adapter which has a fastening receptacle, via which the pivot bearing unit is connected to the drive shaft in a torque-proof manner.

[0047] Preferably, the swivel bearing adapter is connected to the drive shaft in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or materially fitting manner. It is particularly preferred that the swivel bearing adapter is fixedly connected to the drive shaft in the longitudinal direction of the rotation axis. Preferably, the swivel bearing adapter is connected to the drive shaft in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting and / or materially fitting manner in the longitudinal direction. Particularly preferably, the drive shaft and the swivel bearing adapter are formed in one piece. It can be particularly preferred that the drive shaft and / or the swivel bearing adapter are formed as a cast part, in particular as an injection molded part.

[0048] In particular, it is proposed that the swivel bearing adapter has a corresponding shaft receptacle. In particular, it is proposed that the shaft receptacle corresponds to the fastening receptacle.

[0049] By means of the swivel bearing adapter, a shape-variable stimulation device can be mounted particularly simply and quickly. In particular, the tilt angle and thus the shape change of the stimulation device can be set as required by replacing the swivel bearing adapter.

[0050] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device, it is proposed that the fastening receptacle extends coaxially with the axis of rotation. This allows a particularly preferred force transmission to be set. In particular, the bending moments acting on the drive shaft can be minimized by this arrangement. In a particularly advantageous manner, the coaxial arrangement of the swivel bearing adapter results in a compact configuration of the stimulation device.

[0051] According to a further preferred development of the shape-variable stimulation device, the fastening receptacle is a through-opening which extends along the axis of rotation through the pivot bearing adapter.

[0052] According to a further preferred development of the shape-variable stimulation device, the through-opening has a polygonal opening cross section.

[0053] Preferably, in this development it is provided that the opening cross section corresponds to a polygonal shaft cross section.

[0054] The polygonal opening cross section is especially a multi-angle cross section. For example, the polygonal opening cross section is a triangular, quadrilateral, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc. cross section. It can be preferred that the opening cross section is configured as a star-shaped or gear-shaped cross section.

[0055] Preferably, at least one swivel bearing unit is designed to receive a drive shaft having a polygonal shaft cross section in a form-fitting manner. Preferably, the shaft receiving portion is designed as a polygonal receiving cross section. In particular, the polygonal receiving cross section is a multi-angle cross section. For example, the polygonal receiving cross section is a cross section of a triangle, a quadrangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, etc. It can be preferred that the receiving cross section is designed as a star-shaped or gear-shaped cross section.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment of the variable-shape stimulation device, the pivot bearing adapter further comprises a projection which is designed to support the bearing shell in the direction of extension of the tilt axis.

[0057] It is further proposed that the swivel bearing unit in a preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device has a bearing shell which surrounds the swivel bearing adapter on the circumferential side, wherein the bearing shell preferably has a swivel bearing surface. This makes it possible in a particularly advantageous manner to easily and quickly replace wearing parts such as bearing shells. The solution makes it possible in particular that the entire stimulation device does not have to be replaced after the bearing shells have worn, as is the case with stimulation devices in the prior art.

[0058] According to another improvement of the shape-variable stimulation device, the bearing shell has nylon as material. In particular, it is proposed that the bearing shell is made of the material nylon. The bearing shell comprising nylon or made of nylon has particularly advantageous bearing properties and sliding properties. Nylon minimizes wear and thus increases the service life of such a stimulation device.

[0059] According to a further preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device, the bearing shell is designed as a plain bearing shell. Plain bearing shells have the advantage that they are more load-bearing and quieter than rolling bearings. In addition, the use of plain bearing shells allows compensation of misalignments and vibration damping. Plain bearing shells allow a more compact design in particular compared to rolling bearings.

[0060] Furthermore, in a preferred refinement of the shape-variable stimulation device, it is proposed that the bearing has one or more bearing surface segments. Preferably, a bearing surface segment or a plurality of bearing surface segments extend parallel to the tilt axis. In addition or alternatively, it is proposed in the preferred refinement that a bearing surface segment or a plurality of bearing surface segments extend orthogonally to the tilt axis.

[0061] According to another preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device, the bearing receiving unit has a bearing receiving surface segment or a plurality of bearing receiving surface segments. Preferably, in the embodiment, it is proposed that the bearing receiving surface segment or the plurality of bearing receiving surface segments extend parallel to the tilting axis. In addition or alternatively, it is proposed in the preferred embodiment that the bearing receiving surface segment or the plurality of bearing receiving surface segments extend orthogonally to the tilting axis. In particular, the bearing receiving surface segment is designed so that the swinging body is supported in a swinging manner relative to the swing bearing unit, in particular the swing bearing surface.

[0062] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the shape-variable stimulation device it is provided that the bearing receiving surface segment or the bearing receiving surface segments are designed to be annular or partially annular.

[0063] Furthermore, the shape-variable stimulation device has two, three or more swivel bearing units in a preferred development, wherein the tilting axis of at least one swivel bearing unit extends at an tilting angle offset with respect to the swivel axis of at least one other swivel bearing unit with respect to the rotation axis by a rotation angle difference. In the preferred development, it is provided that the tilting axis of at least one swivel bearing unit extends at an tilting angle offset with respect to the swivel axis of at least one other swivel bearing unit with respect to the rotation axis by a rotation angle difference of 180°.

[0064] Furthermore, according to a preferred improvement of the shape-variable stimulation device, the stimulation device extends between the head end and the hand end. Here, the oscillating body constituting the head end is configured as a head body, the head body having a oscillating body recess, the oscillating body recess extending from a first end side of at least one oscillating body to the interior of at least one oscillating body, and the drive shaft extending into the oscillating body recess. In addition or alternatively, it is proposed that the oscillating body arranged between the head end, in particular the head body and the hand unit, is configured as an intermediate body, the intermediate body having a oscillating body through-opening, the oscillating body through-opening extending between the first and second end sides of the oscillating body, and the drive shaft extending through the oscillating body through-opening.

[0065] In a preferred development, the shape-variable stimulation device also has a hand unit for operating the stimulation device.

[0066] According to a further preferred embodiment, the shape-variable stimulation device has at least one deformable supporting element, which is arranged on at least one rocker body.

[0067] According to a further preferred development of the shape-variable stimulation device, it is proposed that at least one supporting element supports at least one oscillating body at a first end side and / or a second end side. In addition or as an alternative, it is proposed in the preferred development that at least one supporting element extends at least partially into at least one oscillating body, in particular at least partially into a oscillating body recess and / or a oscillating body through-opening of at least one oscillating body.

[0068] In the preferred development, it is preferably provided that a deformable supporting element is provided between two adjacently arranged oscillating bodies. Additionally or alternatively, it is preferably provided that a deformable supporting element is provided between the oscillating body and the hand unit.

[0069] At least one supporting element is configured to deform according to the tilt angle. In particular, at least one supporting element is compressed on one side and expanded on the opposite side.

[0070] Finally, in a more preferred improvement of the shape-variable stimulation device, at least one supporting element at least partially has a cylindrical outer shell. In addition or alternatively, in the preferred improvement, it is proposed that at least one supporting element at least partially has a stepped shell. In addition, it is proposed that at least one supporting element at least partially has an axial shell. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0071] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described exemplarily with reference to the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings show:

[0072] Figure 1a-Figure 1cA schematic cross-sectional view showing a preferred embodiment of a stimulation device;

[0073] Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another preferred embodiment of the stimulation device;

[0074] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another preferred embodiment of the stimulation device;

[0075] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view showing another preferred embodiment of the stimulation device;

[0076] Figure 5 a schematic cross-sectional view showing another preferred embodiment of the stimulation device; and

[0077] Figure 6a-6c Shows the stimulation device in Figure 5 A schematic three-dimensional detail view of a preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] Figures 1a to 1c A schematic sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a shape-changing stimulation device 1 for massaging the body is shown. The stimulation device extends between a hand unit 70 and a head unit 80 in the longitudinal direction of the drive shaft 10 or the axis of rotation D of the drive shaft 10. In operation, the hand unit 70 is used to hold the stimulation device 1 and the purpose of the head unit 80 can be a body massage at the body.

[0079] The shape-variable stimulation device 1 comprises a drive shaft 10 rotatably supported about a rotation axis D, which is mechanically coupled to a motor unit 20 and extends in a straight line from the motor unit 20. The motor unit 20 drives the drive shaft 10 in the rotational direction at a desired rotational speed and a desired torque about the rotation axis D. Preferably, the rotational speed and torque that the motor unit 20 can provide for driving the drive shaft 10 can be changed during the operation of the shape-variable stimulation device 1.

[0080] The drive shaft 10 has two pivot bearing units 40 which are connected to the drive shaft 10 in a torque-proof manner. It can be seen that the pivot bearing units 40 are arranged spaced apart from one another, wherein the drive shaft 10 extends from the motor unit 20 in the longitudinal direction along the axis of rotation D to one of the two pivot bearing units 40. The other of the two pivot bearing units 40 is arranged between the motor unit 20 and the pivot bearing unit 40.

[0081] Two in Figure 1a to Figure 1cThe swivel bearing units 40 shown in the drawings each have a plate-shaped swivel bearing surface 42 b, which extends obliquely relative to the rotation axis D. The oblique plate-shaped swivel bearing surfaces 42 b each define an inclination axis N, which extends orthogonally to the respective plate-shaped swivel bearing surface 42 b and intersects the rotation axis D. It can be seen that the two inclination axes N extend offset around the rotation axis D with a rotation angle difference of 180°.

[0082] The shape-changing stimulation device 1 Figure 1a-Figure 1c The preferred embodiment shown in the figure comprises two swing bodies 30, each of which has a bearing receiving unit 50, which is supported at one of the two swing bearing units 40 for supporting the corresponding swing body 30. One of the two swing bodies 30, which is arranged opposite to the hand unit 70 in the longitudinal direction, constitutes the head unit of the stimulation device 1. The other of the two swing bodies 30, which is arranged between the hand unit 70 and the swing body formed as the head unit in the longitudinal direction, constitutes an intermediate body of the stimulation device 1.

[0083] Figure 1a-Figure 1c The drive shaft 10 of the stimulation device 1 is shown at different rotation angles. Figure 1a In the embodiment, the drive shaft is, for example, at a rotation angle of 0°. In this position, the intermediate body is tilted to the left and the swing body forming the head unit is tilted to the right. Figure 1b The drive shaft is shown with a rotation angle of 90°. In this position, the intermediate body is tilted forward (outward from the page) and the swinging body constituting the head unit is tilted backward (into the page). Finally, Figure 1c The drive shaft is shown with a rotation angle of 180°. In this position, the intermediate body is tilted to the right and the oscillating body forming the head unit is tilted to the left.

[0084] This means that the oscillating body does not perform a rotational movement about the rotational axis during the rotation of the drive shaft about the rotational axis. Rather, it is provided that the oscillating body only performs an oscillating movement depending on the rotational angle of the drive shaft, but is arranged statically in the rotational direction of the drive shaft.

[0085] It can be seen that in the swing body constituting the head unit, the drive shaft 10 extends to the inside of the swing body, but does not penetrate. Therefore, the swing body 30 constituting the head unit has a swing body recess, which extends from the first end side of the swing body 30 to the inside of the swing body 30. Therefore, the drive shaft 10 partially extends into the swing body recess with the swing bearing unit 40.

[0086] The swing body 30 configured as an intermediate body is configured so that the drive shaft 10 extends through the swing body. Therefore, the swing body 30 configured as an intermediate body has a swing body through-opening. The swing body through-opening extends between the first end side and the second end side of the swing body. It is proposed that the drive shaft extends through the swing body through-opening.

[0087] A support element 60 is provided between the swing body constituting the head unit and the swing body constituting the intermediate body. In addition, one support element 60 is provided between the swing body constituting the intermediate body and the hand unit 70. Therefore, the support element 60 supports the swing body 30 constituting the head unit at its first end side relative to the swing body constituting the intermediate body at its second end side. Another support element 60 supports the swing body constituting the intermediate body at its first end side relative to the hand unit 70. Therefore, in cooperation with the support element, the swing body is provided in a manner supported on the swing bearing unit 40.

[0088] For the present purpose, the support element 60 is designed to be deformable in order to follow the swinging movement of the swinging body 30. For improved deformability, the support element has a stepped housing. The stepped housing comprises a plurality of sections, each of which has a cylindrical outer shell. It is preferably provided that the support element and the swinging body are arranged statically in the rotational direction of the drive shaft.

[0089] Figures 2 to 5 A schematic sectional view of another preferred embodiment of the stimulation device 1 is shown in each case. Figures 2 to 5 The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is similar to the embodiment of the stimulation device 1 in FIG. Figure 1a-Figure 1c The embodiment shown in and described above. Figures 2 to 5 The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 differs from the embodiment of the stimulation device 1 shown in FIG. 1 substantially in the design of the at least one pivot bearing unit 40 and the at least one bearing receptacle unit 50 .

[0090] exist Figure 2An embodiment of the stimulation device 1 is shown in the figure, wherein at least one swing bearing unit 40 of the stimulation device has three swing bearing surfaces 42a in the form of a cylindrical outer side. It is further proposed that at least one swing bearing unit 40 has four plate-shaped swing bearing surfaces 42b, of which two plate-shaped swing bearing surfaces face each other and two plate-shaped swing bearing surfaces face away from each other. The bearing receiving unit 50 has three corresponding bearing receiving surface segments 50b, 50c, 50d in the form of a cylindrical outer side, which extend coaxially with the tilting axis N. The swinging body is thereby fixed radially to the tilting axis N. In addition, the bearing receiving unit 50 has two bearing receiving surface segments, which extend orthogonally to the tilting axis N, and which are in sliding contact with the corresponding swing bearing surfaces 42b so as to support the swinging body in a swinging manner. As a result, the swinging body is fixed along the tilting axis N.

[0091] exist Figure 3 An embodiment of the stimulation device 1 is shown in the figure, wherein at least one swing bearing unit 40 of the stimulation device has two swing bearing surfaces 42a in the shape of a cylindrical outer side, and the two swing bearing surfaces in the shape of a cylindrical outer side are arranged spaced apart from each other along the tilting axis N. Two plate-shaped swing bearing surfaces 42b that are separated from each other are provided between the two swing bearing surfaces 42a in the shape of a cylindrical outer side. Correspondingly, the bearing receiving unit 50 has two bearing receiving surface sections 50b, 50c in the shape of a cylindrical outer side, and the two bearing receiving surface sections in the shape of a cylindrical outer side extend parallel to the tilting axis N. As a result, the swinging body is fixed radially to the tilting axis N. In addition, the bearing receiving unit 50 has two bearing receiving surface sections, which extend orthogonally to the tilting axis N, and the two bearing receiving surface sections are in sliding contact with the corresponding swing bearing surfaces 42b so as to support the swinging body in a swinging manner. As a result, the swinging body is fixed along the tilting axis N.

[0092] exist Figure 4, an embodiment of a stimulation device 1 is shown, wherein at least one swivel bearing unit 40 of the stimulation device has a cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surface 42a, which extends coaxially with the tilting axis N. In addition, at least one swivel bearing unit 40 has a projection 44 at the end, which respectively forms a plate-shaped, in particular annular swivel bearing surface 42b, which extends orthogonally to the tilting axis N. The bearing receiving unit 50 has four corresponding cylindrical outer side bearing receiving surface sections 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e, which extend coaxially with the tilting axis N and are arranged spaced apart from each other along the tilting axis N. It is further proposed that the bearing receiving unit 50 has two bearing receiving surface sections, which extend orthogonally to the tilting axis N and are in sliding contact with the corresponding swivel bearing surface 42b in order to support the swivel body in a swivel manner.

[0093] exist Figure 5 An embodiment of the stimulation device 1 is shown in FIG. Figure 4 The embodiment shown in Figure 4 The bearing receiving unit 50 shown in FIG. Figure 5 The bearing receiving unit 50 shown in FIG. 5 has four cylindrical outer side bearing receiving surface sections which are in sliding contact with the swivel bearing surface of the swivel bearing unit 40 for supporting the swivel body 30 .

[0094] Figures 6a to 6c The stimulation device 1, in particular the bearing receiving unit 50 and the swivel bearing unit 40, is Figure 5 Schematic three-dimensional detail view of a preferred embodiment shown in . It can be seen that the swivel bearing unit 40 has a swivel bearing adapter 41, which has a fastening receptacle 43, via which the swivel bearing unit 40 is connected to the drive shaft 10 in a torque-proof manner. For this purpose, the fastening receptacle 43 extends coaxially to the axis of rotation D and has a through-opening, which extends through the swivel bearing adapter 41 along the axis of rotation D. In order to transmit the torque and the rotational movement of the drive shaft to the swivel bearing unit 40, the through-opening has a polygonal opening cross section. Correspondingly, the drive shaft 10 has a polygonal shaft cross section, which corresponds to the opening cross section. In the preferred embodiment shown here, the opening cross section and the shaft cross section are designed in a quadrilateral manner.

[0095] In the preferred embodiment, it is further provided that the swivel bearing adapter 41 has a projection 44, which is designed to support a bearing shell 45 in the extension direction of the tilt axis N. The bearing shell 45 surrounds the swivel bearing adapter 41 on the circumferential side and is located on the projection 44 of the swivel bearing adapter 41. In the preferred embodiment, the bearing shell 45 has a cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surface 42a, 42b, so that the cylindrical outer side swivel bearing surface 42a extends coaxially with the tilt axis N and the plate-shaped swivel bearing surface 42b extends orthogonally to the tilt axis N. The bearing shell 45 cooperates with the bearing receiving unit 50 to form a sliding bearing. As a result, the drive shaft 10 having the swivel bearing unit 40 fixed to the drive shaft 10 in a rotationally fixed manner can rotate relative to the swivel body 30 statically arranged in the rotation direction of the drive shaft 10 and cause a swivel movement of the swivel body 30.

[0096] Reference numerals list

[0097] 1 Shape-changing stimulation device

[0098] 10 Drive shaft

[0099] 20 Motor Unit

[0100] 30 Swinging body

[0101] 40 Swing bearing unit

[0102] 41 Swivel bearing adapter

[0103] 42a Swing bearing surface of the outer side of the cylinder

[0104] 42b Plate-shaped swing bearing surface

[0105] 43 Fastening accommodating portion

[0106] 44 protrusion

[0107] 45 Bearing

[0108] 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d Bearing face section

[0109] 50 Bearing housing unit

[0110] 50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e bearing receiving surface segments

[0111] 60 Support element

[0112] 70 Hand Unit

[0113] 80 Head Unit

[0114] D Rotation axis

[0115] N Tilt axis

Claims

1. A shape-changing stimulation device (1) for body stimulation, the stimulation device comprising: - a rotatably mounted drive shaft (10) which is designed to be driven by a motor unit (20) about an axis of rotation (D), wherein the drive shaft (10) has at least one swivel bearing unit (40) which is connected to the drive shaft (10) in a torque-proof manner, and at least one oscillating body (30), the at least one oscillating body having at least one bearing receiving unit (50), the at least one oscillating bearing unit (40) being arranged on the bearing receiving unit for supporting the at least one oscillating body (30), It is characterized in that - the at least one swivel bearing unit (40) defines a tilting axis (N) which is tilted at an inclination angle relative to the rotation axis (D), and The at least one pivot bearing unit (40) is designed to support the pivoting body (30) via the at least one bearing receiving unit (50) in a pivotable manner relative to the drive shaft (10).

2. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 1, The drive shaft (10) is a linear drive shaft (10) and / or the drive shaft (10) has a polygonal shaft cross section.

3. A shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, The pivot bearing unit (40) has a pivot bearing surface which is arranged inclined relative to the rotation axis (D).

4. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 3, The swing bearing surface - a pivot bearing surface (42a) having a cylindrical outer side, which extends coaxially with the tilting axis (N), and / or - has a plate-shaped pivot bearing surface (42b) which extends orthogonally to the tilting axis (N).

5. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The pivot bearing unit (40) has a pivot bearing adapter (41) having a fastening receptacle (43), via which the pivot bearing unit (40) is connected to the drive shaft (10) in a torque-proof manner.

6. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 5, The fastening receptacle (43) extends coaxially with the rotation axis (D).

7. A shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 5 or 6, The fastening receptacle (43) is a through-opening which extends along the axis of rotation (D) through the pivot bearing adapter (41).

8. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 7, The through-opening has a polygonal opening cross section, wherein the opening cross section preferably corresponds to the polygonal axial cross section.

9. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The pivot bearing adapter (41) has a projection (44) which is designed to support a bearing shell (45) in the direction of extension of the tilting axis (N).

10. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 9, The swivel bearing unit (40) has the bearing shell (45) which surrounds the swivel bearing adapter (41) on the circumferential side. In this case, the bearing shell (45) preferably has the pivot bearing surface.

11. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 10, The bearing shell (45) comprises nylon as material.

12. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, The bearing shell (45) is designed as a plain bearing shell.

13. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, The bearing shell (45) has one or more bearing shell face sections (45a, 45b, 45c, 45d), wherein Preferably, the one bearing face segment or the plurality of bearing face segments (45a, 45b, 45c, 45d) - extends parallel to said tilting axis (N), and / or - extends orthogonally to said tilting axis (N).

14. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, The bearing receiving unit (50) has one bearing receiving surface segment (50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e) or a plurality of bearing receiving surface segments (50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e), wherein Preferably, the one bearing receiving surface section (50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e) or the plurality of bearing receiving surface sections (50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e) - extends parallel to said tilting axis (N), and / or - extends orthogonally to said tilting axis (N).

15. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 14, The bearing receiving surface segment or the plurality of bearing receiving surface segments (50a, 50b, 50c, 50d, 50e) are designed in an annular or partially annular shape.

16. Shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, The stimulation device has a plurality of pivot bearing units (40), wherein The tilting axis (N) of at least one swivel bearing unit (40) extends at an tilting angle relative to the swivel axis of at least one other swivel bearing unit (40) with respect to the rotational axis (D) at an offset rotational angle, wherein Preferably, the tilting axis (N) of the at least one swivel bearing unit (40) extends at an tilting angle offset relative to the tilting axis (N) of the at least one other swivel bearing unit (40) by a rotation angle of 180° with respect to the rotation axis (D).

17. Shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, The stimulation device (1) extends between the head end and the hand unit (70), wherein - the oscillating body (30) constituting the head end is configured as a head body, the head body having a oscillating body recess, the oscillating body recess extending from a first end side of the at least one oscillating body (30) to the interior of the at least one oscillating body (30), and the drive shaft extending into the oscillating body recess, and / or -The swinging body (30) arranged between the head end, in particular the head body and the hand unit (70) is configured as an intermediate body, the intermediate body having a swinging body through-opening, the swinging body through-opening extending between the first end side and the second end side of the swinging body, and the drive shaft extending through the swinging body through-opening.

18. Shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, The stimulation device has a hand unit (70) for operating the stimulation device.

19. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, The stimulation device has at least one deformable supporting element (60) which is arranged on the at least one pendulum (30).

20. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 19, wherein the at least one support element (60) - supporting the at least one oscillating body (30) at the first end side and / or the second end side, and / or - extends at least partially into the at least one oscillating body (30), in particular at least partially into a oscillating body recess and / or a oscillating body through-opening of the at least one oscillating body (30); Preferably, a deformable support element (60) is provided in each case - between two adjacently arranged oscillating bodies (30) and / or - between the swinging body (30) and the hand unit (70).

21. The shape-variable stimulation device (1) according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the at least one support element (60) - a housing having at least in sections a cylindrical outer profile; and / or - a housing having a stepped shape at least in sections; and / or The housing has a shaft-shaped housing at least in sections.

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