Pressure wave device with dual valve device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for treatment with pressure waves, comprising: a catapult which is guided along a movement path; an applicator (6) at the end of the movement path; a pneumatic device for applying pressure to the ejection (8) in order to move it along the movement path, the ejection (8) being designed to impinge on the applicator (6) in order to generate a pressure wave, having a two-valve device (1, 2) for applying pressure to the ejection (8) in the direction of the applicator (6) during a first switching-on time, and a control device (54) for controlling the ejection (8) during a second switching-on time, the control device (54) being designed to impinge on the ejection (8) in the direction of the applicator (6) during a second switching-on time. And for applying a pressure in the return direction to the ejection (8) during a second switching-on time, which is designed to vary the second switching-on time.

Description

Technical Field

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

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

[0003] A projectile acceleration technique that has proven effective in practice and has been described many times is pneumatic. Here, a pneumatic overpressure is coupled in by loading the volume on one side of the projectile, which can move along a movement path, for example in a pipe.

[0004] For this purpose, a switching valve is used in the prior art, which is connected to a pneumatic supply, in particular to a compressor with an adjustable output pressure, and whose pulse accelerates the projectile from the end of the movement path remote from the applicator toward the applicator. When the proximal end of the movement path is reached, i.e. when it impacts the applicator, the pneumatic loading is switched off.

[0005] In the prior art, the return movement is achieved with the aid of a backpressure chamber, ie a storage volume, into which the projectile moving towards the applicator displaces the air located in front of it to a certain extent, whereby the projectile nearly fills the storage volume.

[0006] In EP 2 181 730 B1, which was previously published but was withdrawn in the defense proceedings due to lack of practicality, in addition to the opening time control of the switching valve for acceleration, which was not elaborated in detail, a targeted pressure limitation in the counterpressure chamber was also discussed. In addition, the document mentions the use of a second switching valve for returning the projectile to the distal initial position after loading through the first switching valve. Summary of the invention

[0007] On this basis, the object of the present invention is to provide a device of the described type which is improved with regard to the reciprocating movement of the projectile and which has a pneumatic device for moving the projectile.

[0008] To achieve this object, a device is proposed according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0009] Accordingly, the device according to the present invention has a double valve device as a part of its pneumatic device, for loading the projectile in two directions, i.e., towards the applicator and on the contrary away from the applicator in the return direction, i.e., for example, a combination of a first valve and a second valve. Hereinafter, such a time phase is referred to as the first on-time (ersteEinschaltzeit), in which the projectile is pneumatically loaded so that it moves in the forward direction (Hinrichtung), i.e., for example, the on-phase of the first valve, whereas the time phase in which the projectile is reversely loaded is referred to as the second on-time (zweite Einschaltzeit). According to the present invention, the device should be designed (i.e., the controller present therein is especially designed) so that the second on-time is variable. This can be a variable supplement to the first on-time, or it can also occur when the first on-time is fixedly preset.

[0010] Therefore, different advantages can be achieved depending on the requirements and priorities in the individual case. In particular, the impact speed of the projectile on the applicator can be changed, more precisely, it can also be independent of the change of the acceleration pressure. For example, the second switch-on time can already start before the collision between the projectile and the applicator, wherein this part before the collision is variable. That is to say, if this part of the second switch-on time first overlaps with the first switch-on time in the end phase of the first switch-on time, and / or is secondly located after the end of the first switch-on time, but before the collision, then the impact speed is reduced.

[0011] When the two switching times overlap, for example when the pneumatic pressures on both sides of the projectile are approximately the same, compensation of the forces accelerating in the forward direction can be achieved, and the projectile can therefore move approximately forcelessly or at least with reduced acceleration forces during this time period ("overlap time"). In the other case (no overlap), the projectile is actually braked. It is applicable to both cases that a reduced impact velocity can be achieved without reducing the pressure.

[0012] On the one hand, this is another degree of freedom in the control. On the other hand, it is possible (additionally or independently) to achieve a relatively large pressure and therefore a large average velocity on the return of the projectile without generating a high impact velocity corresponding to the pressure (assuming that the projectile is accelerated in the forward direction due to the pressure).

[0013] In addition or independently, however, due to different lengths of the second switch-on time after the collision (including the case where the second switch-on time is present only after the collision), a return of the projectile with different accelerations can also be achieved. This makes it possible to influence the return, more precisely in terms of duration and speed, even without changing the pressure. This can be meaningful, for example, when applying relatively high pneumatic pressures.

[0014] The second on-time can also last beyond the new start of the next movement of the projectile in the forward direction towards the applicator. In any case, the impact speed at the next collision can also be controlled by the part of the second on-time that lasts beyond the new start of the projectile movement in the forward direction, i.e., by varying the part of the second on-time that falls into the forward movement. In principle, the return movement can also be started by a second on-time and then, after its end, another second on-time is used at the end of the return movement.

[0015] Additionally or independently, further on in the course of this forward movement of the projectile before its end, a new second switch-on time can of course be started and can itself additionally or alternatively be used to control the impact speed.

[0016] It follows from the above explanations that the variability of the second on-time can relate to its temporal position (relative to the impact of the projectile on the applicator) and / or its duration. For example, the same second on-time can have a constant duration after the impact, but a variable duration before the impact, and thus a variable start and a variable total duration, or conversely a fixed start (relative to the impact) and a variable end. Furthermore, it can have a fixed duration, but the start and end can be varied, and of course, the start, end and duration can all be varied.

[0017] The combination of two switching valves is also mentioned above, which is a possibility of a double valve device provided according to the invention. In this variant, the two valves can be controlled by a control device (preferably independently of each other). However, alternatively, a consistent valve (einheitliches Ventil) referred to here as a "combination valve" can also be used, which has at least two switching states according to the control of the control device, namely a first switching state for loading the projectile in the direction toward the applicator, and a second switching state for loading the projectile in the return direction. During the period when the combination valve is in the first switching state, a first valve opening time is obtained, and in the second switching state, a second valve opening time is obtained accordingly.

[0018] In both switching states, the pneumatic interface to be loaded in the other switching state is preferably ventilated via the combination valve so that, for example, in the forward movement, approximately the ambient pressure is present on the side of the projectile that is close to the applicator, and, in contrast to the conventional approach with a backpressure chamber, there is no dynamic pressure that increases from collision to collision (Staudruck).

[0019] The combination valve optionally also has a further third switching state in which both pneumatic connections are (simultaneously) acted upon by the pneumatic supply pressure. In this third switching state, an overlap between the first and second switch-on times is then obtained. When reference is made to the beginning of the second switch-on time during the first switch-on time (or vice versa), this means, in the variant with the combination valve, a switchover of the combination valve. The same applies to the end of the first switch-on time during the second switch-on time which is still present (or vice versa).

[0020] When using two separate valves, preferably at least one of the two valves is a "two-way valve" which performs ventilation accordingly as long as it is not switched to act on pneumatic pressure. However, other switching states are not excluded and the valve is not necessarily limited to exactly two switching states.

[0021] Furthermore, ventilation refers to a pneumatically well-conducted connection to the outside atmosphere or to a reference pressure volume that corresponds substantially to the outside atmosphere. This therefore does not involve intentionally hindering the outflow of gas under excess pressure in the sense of throttling.

[0022] As an alternative to ventilation by means of a combination valve or the two-way valve just mentioned, the device can also, for example, have a certain pneumatic leakiness and, without being loaded with pneumatic pressure, perform throttled exhaustion itself in this way or in other ways to a certain extent slowly. However, this solution is less preferred.

[0023] Preferably, the length of the second on time is varied. Preferably, the time end of this second on time, more precisely measured from the impact, is kept constant during the control, and accordingly only the start time of the second on time is varied during the control, for example because the return of the projectile takes place essentially the same.

[0024] In addition to the possibility of the overlap time between the first on-time and the second on-time already mentioned, the opposite situation is also considered to a certain extent, that is, the interval time between the end of the first on-time and the beginning of the second on-time. This can also (but not necessarily) be variable. For example, this interval time can be before the projectile hits the applicator, wherein the projectile is accelerated during the first on-time, "continues to fly" forcelessly to a large extent (and without considering friction) during the interval time, and then due to the back pressure during the second on-time, it has been slightly braked before the impact. Similar situations are applicable to the start of the second on-time at the time of impact or after the impact. In particular, these situations can also occur "mixedly", that is, there can be a control state with an overlap time (including zero) and a control state with an interval time (also including zero, which is equivalent to an overlap time zero).

[0025] In the simplest case, the pneumatic device can have an interface for supplying from a pneumatic network, for example in a hospital, or from a compressed gas cylinder. However, a pneumatic compressor is preferred, with which the device according to the invention is more mobile in a location-independent manner and compared to compressed gas cylinders. Pneumatic compressors themselves are known in advance in connection with such devices. However, the invention provides the special aspect that in different control states with different impact velocities of the projectile, it is not necessary to change the supply pressure compulsorily. In other words, in these different control states, the compressor can be operated at the same rotational speed.

[0026] Of course, the control of the compressor can be simplified as a result, in particular if the compressor always runs at the same speed in the switched-on state. In addition, the compressor can be operated near or at its maximum efficiency (with respect to the speed). Furthermore, noise reduction measures, such as vibration-damping mountings or noise-damping sheathing of the compressor, can be adapted to the vibration behavior of the compressor at the same speed.

[0027] A special design possibility of the invention is that the physics of the impact between the projectile and the applicator, in particular the impact speed and thus the impulse during the impact, can be directly and quickly influenced simply by changing the valve opening time or the valve opening duration. Compared to changing the supply pressure, this influencing possibility is particularly fast, so that in a repeated operating state, the impact speed / impulse of the combined reciprocating movement can in principle be changed from one impact process to the next. The prior art does not allow such a fast and free influence.

[0028] Here, but also under not too fast or changing conditions, typical impact velocities are in the range between 2 m / s and 30 m / s. For collision physics, the impact impulse is particularly important, so that, with typical projectile masses between 1 g and 10 g, preferably between 2 g and 5 g, this impact impulse can be in the range between 2 gm / s and 300 gm / s, preferably between 10 gm / s and 150 gm / s.

[0029] In a particular embodiment, the device has a measuring device with which the passage of the projectile at a position in its path of movement can be measured. The measuring device can be coupled to the control device. Thus, the passage of the projectile can be detected in such a way that, for example, the passage of the projectile is detected when it is about to impact or is close to impacting the applicator, so that the switch-on time can be coordinated accordingly (especially with regard to its start and its end) with the end time point of the impact.

[0030] This detection can be realized, for example, optically, for example by means of a light barrier or the like, but preferably inductively, using a measuring coil. The detection can be carried out by means of the residual magnetism of the projectile, or purely inductively (by means of a change in the leakage inductance). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The present invention is explained in detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, wherein individual features may also constitute the essence of the invention in other combinations within the scope of the claims.

[0032] It shows in detail:

[0033] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a device according to the invention, wherein, for the sake of clarity, the middle housing part is omitted;

[0034] Figure 2 Shown by Figure 1 of the device, relative to Figure 1 Longitudinal section with right-left interchanged position;

[0035] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a handpiece with associated basic equipment is shown;

[0036] FIG. 4 shows a schematic time curve for explaining the operating mode. Figure 4a) to Figure 4e) sequence;

[0037] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the combination valve is shown to explain Figure 1 and Figure 2 An alternative embodiment of;

[0038] FIG6 shows a schematic time variation curve Figure 6a) to Figure 6f)A sequence for explaining other control states that supplement FIG. 4 ;

[0039] Figure 7 Another schematic variation curve diagram for explaining the periodic working mode is shown;

[0040] FIG8 shows a schematic time variation curve Figure 8a) to Figure 8c) A sequence of to further illustrate the operation mode;

[0041] Fig. 9 A repetitive sequence of two different projectile velocity levels is shown in direct order, wherein a high velocity pulse is directly followed by two low velocity pulses;

[0042] Fig.10 Shown is the Fig. 9 The control sequence of valves V1 and V2 is manipulated by the sequence of two different projectile velocity levels shown;

[0043] Fig.11 Shows Fig.10 A higher degree of temporal detail is shown for the first 300ms of the control sequence. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Figure 1 A perspective view of a handpiece of the device according to the invention is shown, which has pneumatic valves pointing to the left front, namely a first valve 1 and a second valve 2. On the right side, a pneumatic supply connection 3 can be seen, and on the left side, two threaded rings 4 and 5, each with grooves on the outside for easier handling, can be seen, which are used to hold an applicator 6, which will be explained in more detail below. The applicator is Figure 1 The patient-facing surface can be seen on the far left of the image, and Figure 2 It can also be constructed as a multi-piece structure.

[0045] exist Figure 1 In the middle region of the device, a plurality of transversely extending tubes can be seen, wherein the middle tube with reference numeral 7 contains and guides the Figure 2 8 is shown in cross section in FIG. In front of it, two parallel pneumatic connecting lines 9 and 10 can be seen between the two valves 1 and 2, wherein the line 9 is used to supply the pressure load to the second valve 2 and the line 10 is used in turn to vent the second valve 2 via the outlet provided at the first valve 1. In this embodiment, the plurality of pipes is surrounded by a housing cover 11, which is Figure 1 The housing cover 11 is shown in FIG. 1 by a line below the duct 10 and two lines above the projectile guide 7. Figure 1The housing cover extends in the rear region and surrounds only a portion of the outer circumference. The housing cover is designed to facilitate gripping at its axial edges by rounding inwardly folding like a bead, which is Figure 1 The housing cover 11 can thus be used as a handle in actual operation. The spacer 13 stabilizes the structure and mechanically connects the two ends of the handpiece.

[0046] Flexible compressed air supply line from the pneumatic compressor to the equipment (see Figure 3 51 in the figure) is not shown here and can be connected to the already mentioned interface 3. Similarly, the electronic control lines ( 51 in the figure) from the external controller to the valves 1 and 2 are not shown. Figure 3 52), which can be implemented in a consistent manner with the compressed air supply line.

[0047] Figure 2 A longitudinal section is shown along an imaginary central longitudinal axis of the already mentioned cylindrical shape of the entire device, which is at the same time the central longitudinal axis of the projectile guide tube 7. To illustrate the dimensions: in this embodiment, the length of the projectile guide tube 7 is 145.5 mm, and Figure 2 The remaining illustrations are to scale. In the projectile guide, the projectile 8 is Figure 2 4 and 5. The applicator 6 is shown on the right in the figure and therefore rests on the applicator 6, which is held in a known manner by the described threaded rings 4 and 5. Here, the applicator 6 is elastically supported in the axial direction by means of a bellows-shaped elastomer ring 14 and is pneumatically sealed by means of a further elastomer ring 12. Alternatively, it is also possible and preferred to have a device structure with respect to the applicator 6 and its holding and sealing, for example according to EP 2 529 679 (also irrelevant to the cover shown there) or EP 2 095 843 (also irrelevant to the material ceramic discussed there).

[0048] Figure 2 The left side shows the internal channel 21 which connects the pneumatic interface 3 to the first valve 1. Thus, the first valve 1 can switch the supply pressure at the pneumatic interface 3 to the radial channel 22, which merges below the buffer element 23 and is thus connected to the inner volume of the projectile guide tube 7, depending on the control. Thus, the projectile is loaded or accelerated in the direction of the applicator 6 during the first switch-on time via this channel 22. Independently of this, the pneumatic supply pressure is transmitted to the second valve 2 via the channel 24 and the pipe 10.

[0049] In the alternative second switching position, the channel 22, and therefore also the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7, is closed at the distal end ( Figure 2 Ventilation between the left side in the figure) and the projectile 8.

[0050] In the case of the second valve 2, which is in principle designed mirror-symmetrically with respect to the first valve 1, the pneumatic supply pressure applied to the tube 10 can alternatively be transmitted radially upwards via the channel 25 to the volume surrounding the projectile guide tube 7 (at Figure 2 7), which volume is directed from the interface of the channel 25 to the right, i.e. in the direction of the applicator 6, and there, between the applicator 6 and the end of the projectile guide tube 7 close to the applicator, to the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 (regardless of the gap there in the Figure 2 8). Thus, via channel 25, the pneumatic supply pressure can be applied in a switchable manner to the inner volume of the projectile conduit 7 between the applicator 6 and the projectile 8. In this embodiment, however, due to the smaller effective opening cross section, the pneumatic connection is slightly worse than on the opposite side of the projectile conduit 7, so that the delay can be perceived earlier or more strongly in the case of a greater air flow speed (higher frequency, higher pressure).

[0051] Alternatively, in another switching position, the second valve 2 can close the interface of the inner volume of the tube 10 with the second valve and ventilate the channel 25 and therefore the inner volume of the projectile guide tube 7 on the right side of the projectile 8, i.e., connected to the external atmosphere via a good pneumatic conduction connection.

[0052] The two valves 1 and 2 can thus act on the projectiles with pneumatic pressure from both sides, more precisely independently of one another, thus simultaneously or alternately, or can ventilate the interior of the projectile guide tube 7 from both sides.

[0053] Figure 2 The reference numeral 30 in the figure denotes an annular permanent magnet, which is located at the distal end of the movement path of the projectile 8 (which corresponds to the length of the projectile guide tube 7) relative to the applicator 6. With the help of this magnet 30, the projectile 8 consisting of ferromagnetic material can be easily fixed at this distal end of the movement path. By applying pressure on one side with the help of the valve 2, the projectile can also be returned to this position and optionally additionally be held there, especially at the beginning of operation or in the case of non-ferromagnetic projectiles. In this regard, the permanent magnet 30 can also be selectively omitted, especially in the following case, that is, even in the case of a small impact speed of the projectile 8, a reflection that will be explained in the further process should be realized there at this distal end of the movement path.

[0054] 31 denotes a position at which the corresponding position of the projectile 8 through the movement path can be detected by means of a measuring coil, wherein this position is relatively close to the applicator 6. In the simplest case, the slight residual magnetism of the projectile 8 is used here, but it is of course also possible to detect and analyze the inductance change of the coil 31 with AC technology. It is also possible to determine the collision of the projectile 8 with the applicator 6 by using a microphone or a motion sensor in the test structure. In addition, the impact velocity of the projectile 8 can be determined in the test structure, for example using two light barriers located not far in front of the applicator 6.

[0055] Figure 3 shows a block diagram, where Figure 1 and Figure 2 The device shown in the figure is at the top right and is generally indicated by the reference numeral 40. The device 40 is a movable handpiece to be held in the hand, as is known in the prior art of the relevant device. It is connected to a base station 50 via two lines 51 and 52, which includes a pneumatic compressor 53 and a controller 54. The compressor 53 is connected to the handpiece 40 via the line 51, i.e., a pneumatic flexible hose, and the controller 54 is connected via an electrical line 52 (optionally integrated with the line 51), through which the controller can access the two valves 1 and 2 already mentioned and can supply power to the two valves. In addition, in particular if a controller or a part of a controller is additionally provided on the handpiece 40, communication with the handpiece 40 can be carried out via the line 52.

[0056] The controller 54 also controls the compressor 53 with respect to its rotational speed and, of course, with respect to switching on and off, and is itself supplied with power, like the compressor 53, from a power supply 55. However, a pressure regulator or a regulating valve which influences the rotational speed can also be integrated in the compressor 53. The controller 54 is also connected to a display 56 which can be installed in the basic device 50 or can be implemented separately from the basic device 50. The basic device 50 is operated via the touch-sensitive display 56 and / or via a key arrangement which is not shown here.

[0057] Thus, the user can control the functions of the device 40 by means of such a key and at least by means of the display 56, wherein the controller 54 in particular predetermines the opening and closing times and thus also the opening durations of the two valves 1 and 2. Subtasks of the controller 54 can also be integrated into the handpiece 40, in particular relating to the actuation of the valves 1 and 2.

[0058] For a basic understanding of the operation of the two valves, reference may be made to the prior patent EP 2 213 273 B1. The embodiment therein is substantially identical to the above description and the attached drawings, in particular in terms of the dimensions of the projectile guide and the projectile, except for the presence of the second valve 2 and the elimination of the back pressure chamber. Figure 1 and2 In the exemplary embodiment cited, the starting point was a specific valve opening time of the only valve there at a specific pressure, whereas in the present case, the acceleration of the projectile also takes place variably outside the overlap time and therefore also at a constant pressure by the ratio of the first valve opening time. For the following description, a pressure of 4 bar can be used as an example. This results in the following exemplary value table with measured values:

[0059] Numerical table

[0060] Projectile speed [m / s] 10 12 14 16 18 Opening time valve 1[ms] 0 0 0 0 0 Closing time valve 1[ms] 13 13 13 13 13 Opening time valve 2[ms] 2.6 3 3.7 5 7.1 Closing time valve 2 [ms] 18 18 18 18 18 Switch-on time valve 2[ms] 15.4 15 14.3 13 10.9 Overlap time [ms] 10.4 10 9.3 8 5.9 Impact time [ms] 19.4 18.7 18.0 17.3 16.6

[0061] FIG. 4 shows a series of five individual schematic time-varying curves corresponding to the above table. Figure 4a) to Figure 4e) , wherein the opening and closing processes of the first valve 1 are represented by the curves marked T1, and similarly the opening and closing processes of the second valve T2 are represented by the curves marked T2. Therefore, the rising curve parts correspond to the first on-time / the second on-time, respectively.

[0062] In comparison, it can be seen that the first on-time starts at the level of 0 ms on the (arbitrary) time axis in all five control states and ends at 13 ms. In contrast, the second on-time, in terms of its start, starts at Figure 4a ) starts to gradually move to Figure 4e ), whereas the second on-time ends at 18 ms in all five diagrams. The second on-time is therefore variable in terms of its start and its duration. In addition, there is an overlap time in all control states, i.e. Figure 4a ) from about 3ms to 13ms, until Figure 4e ) from about 7 ms to 13 ms, wherein the overlap time is gradually reduced, i.e. corresponding to the beginning of the gradual delay of the second switch-on time. In this respect, in all five control states, the braking of the projectile 8 is also active by the pneumatic loading of the second valve 2.

[0063] In the case shown in FIG. 4 , the impact speeds of the projectile 8 on the applicator 6 are realized at 10 m / s, 12 m / s, 14 m / s, 16 m / s and 18 m / s (in this order, from a) to e)). This corresponds to an impulse of 30 gm / s to 54 gm / s for a projectile mass of 3 g. The opening time of valve 1 is constant at 13.0 ms. The closing time of the second valve is also kept constant at 18 ms.

[0064] To be precise, Figure 4a) to Figure 4e)The electrical control times of the two valves 1 and 2, i.e. the output signals of the controller 54, are shown. Valves 1 and 2 are spring-assisted solenoid valves which open purely magnetically and close by the force of the spring which is tensioned when the magnet is no longer loaded. The movement of the valve body is accordingly slightly delayed relative to the control signals shown, to be more precise, an estimated delay of 4 ms for opening and 2 ms for closing. The overlap time is therefore actually shorter than shown by approximately 2 ms.

[0065] The situation is essentially the same in the case of so-called pilot valves which are pneumatically assisted during opening.

[0066] exist Figure 4a ) (of course in Figure 2 The projectile movement at the left end of the movement path in FIG. 1 is 0 ms when it starts), and the collision with the applicator occurs at about the end of the second opening time, that is, at about 19 ms, wherein the collision time point is always further shifted to the left in the subsequent figures and Figure 4e ) for example at about 16 ms to 17 ms, i.e. more likely during the second opening time. The projectile velocity measured (optically in the test configuration) is Figure 4a ) and the 10m / s in Figure 4e ) and therefore has a ratio of 1:1.8.

[0067] It can be assumed here in a simplified manner that the projectile accelerates linearly with respect to time before the second switch-on time and then continues to move approximately at the speed reached (neglecting aerodynamic flow effects and projectile friction); in reality, the projectile speed can increase slightly less than linearly with time and decrease slightly due to friction during the overlap time in the approximately force-free state. In addition, in each of the cases shown, there is an end phase in which the projectile 8 is braked by pneumatic loading via the second valve. This braking differs only slightly in this respect in the individual illustrations, as the collision time is slightly offset to the second valve opening time (i.e., in Figure 4d )and Figure 4e ) compared to before).

[0068] In the individual illustrations, the overlap time is always located before the collision, but the length is different and in this respect affects the collision speed. The second opening time is also completely or predominantly located before the collision. This does not cause further interference, because the collision itself is pushed back with respect to the impact between the usually less massive projectile and the more massive applicator, with respect to the conservation of momentum (Impulserhaltung). The remainder of the second on time after the end of the first on time brakes the projectile to different degrees, because in the different illustrations, due to the change in the overlap time, the moving projectile is detected at different positions along the movement path and at different speeds (at the beginning of braking).

[0069] Of course, the control time can be adapted so that the overlap time ends approximately at the collision time. In particular, this can be achieved in the following way, that is, by Figure 2 The collision time is determined over time using the already described solution of the measuring coil 31 near the applicator 6. If the collision time is to be located relatively precisely at the end of the overlap time (or at another determined point), the control time solution will be somewhat more complicated, since the first switch-on time must end at different times (from Figure 4a) to Figure 4e) However, the speed of the projectile movement, in particular the speed of the return movement, can be increased. Here, in the case of higher projectile speeds, it may also be interesting to set the end point of the second switch-on time to be different and to be earlier in the case of increased projectile speed in order to achieve a higher repetition rate range.

[0070] Of course, in another embodiment with a "combination valve", a completely similar behavior can be produced as shown in FIG. 4 in diagrams a) to e), but in which the overlap time then means another switching state of the valve. Figure 5 Here, the letter K represents a combination valve, which correspondingly replaces Figure 1 and 2 On the right and left sides, two lines V1 and V2 are shown, where V1 represents, for example, a connection via a channel piece 22 (similar to the first valve 1) to the left side of the projectile guide tube 7 (according to Figure 2 Correspondingly, the right line V2 represents an interface to the right side of the projectile guide tube 7 (similar to the second valve 2), ie, for example, via the channel piece 25.

[0071] exist Figure 5 In the figure, the upper line is represented by the keyword "pressure delivery" and the symbol "1" for the first valve (which should not be confused with the figure mark 1); similarly, the lower line interface is represented by the keyword "ambient pressure" and the symbol "0" inside the figure, that is, it means the ventilation opening.

[0072] A symbolically indicated slide S is present in the combination valve K, which can be moved in a vertical direction (see Figure 5 ) moves between four different switching positions. Figure 5 As shown, in the uppermost position, port V1 is ventilated and port V2 is loaded with pneumatic supply pressure, in the third position from the top, the opposite is true, in the second position from the top, to which the figure is switching, both ports V1 and V2 are ventilated. Finally, the lowermost position shows that both ports V1 and V2 are loaded with pressure simultaneously.

[0073] Therefore, it is conceivable to replace the valve assembly K with a combination valve K constructed in this or a similar manner. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The two individual valves 1 and 2 of the embodiment, wherein the remaining description, and in particular Figure 3 and FIG. 4 also apply here in principle.

[0074] Since the impact speed of the projectile 8 can be controlled solely by switching the two valves 1 and 2, the pneumatic compressor 53 ( Figure 3 ) is operated at a preset fixed operating frequency, in which the pneumatic compressor 53 has an efficiency maximum. In addition, the pneumatic compressor can particularly effectively reduce vibration and noise at the preset operating frequency.

[0075] In principle, the control device 54 can vary the impact speed and the time interval between the collisions between the projectile 8 and the applicator 6 from one individual process to the next. The control device can thus influence the collision physics significantly faster and variably and is in particular not tied to periodic processes.

[0076] FIG. 6 shows a schematic time curve diagram similar to FIG. 4 in the individual views a) to c), wherein, however, the pairs shown at the bottom in solid lines are Figure 1 and Figure 2 There is a time interval between the actuation of valve 1 in , and the actuation of valve 2 shown in dashed lines at the top. Figure 6a ), there is a relatively short on pulse for valve 1, whereby the projectile is accelerated and then "continues flying" over the main part of the movement path after the end of this first on time, without further aerodynamic loading. However, unlike the overlap time shown in FIG. 4 , both sides of the tube interior are ventilated (and not loaded with pressure) during this movement phase.

[0077] After a certain time, the applicator Figure 6a ) and relatively shortly thereafter (apart from the return motion of the projectile already shown as being solely due to this collision), due to Figure 6a) produces a returning pneumatic pulse. Therefore, the projectile moves back to the initial position and can be used for a new cycle.

[0078] In the individual figures b) and c), the above description also applies in principle, wherein the first on-time is gradually extended and thus the interval between the first on-time and the second on-time is gradually shortened. As a result, the impact time is slightly shifted to the left, which is symbolically shown. Accordingly, the projectile strikes the applicator at an increasing speed.

[0079] In all three diagrams a) to c), the switch-on time of the second valve is after the collision and is not variable in these three diagrams (viewed individually). Figure 6a In the first two control states, a) and b), the larger part of the interval time is before the collision, and in the third case c) after the collision.

[0080] exist Figure 6d ) to f), with Figure 6a ) to c), the length of the first on-time remains unchanged (and corresponds to Figure 6b )). However, unlike the first three diagrams, the second on time is variable and a portion of the second on time is before the collision, more precisely, a large portion in case d), approximately half in case e), and only a very small portion in case f). It can be thought of as a continuation to a certain extent Figure 6b ), wherein the second switch-on time then lies completely after the collision, but this is not particularly important now.

[0081] These diagrams show another possibility for controlling the velocity of a projectile upon impact. Figure 6d ), the projectile is actually similar to Figure 6b ), but then, unlike case b), it flies only relatively briefly without force and is then decelerated by the reverse pneumatic pressure due to the start of the second on-time (upper dashed line). Since in case d), the deceleration time corresponds approximately to the acceleration time and the same pressure level can be assumed, the projectile impacts the applicator with minimal speed and is then moved back again by the remainder of the second on-time.

[0082] In cases e) and f), the interval between the two switch-on times increases and therefore the proportion of the second switch-on time before the collision decreases stepwise, although the first switch-on time remains unchanged, which leads to an increase in the projectile velocity at the time of the collision.

[0083] In this regard, a controller must be envisaged (based on Figure 3), which can adjust the control state according to the sub-diagram in FIG. 4 and the other control state according to the sub-diagram just described in FIG. 6. In both cases, the projectile velocity at the time of the impact can be influenced by the valve switching time while the pressure remains the same, wherein, as already explained, only the valve switching time is affected. Figure 6a ) to c), otherwise the second switch-on time is variable between the different control states.

[0084] Figure 7 Roughly shows that according to Figure 6f ). In this case, the projectile is returned to the initial position by the second on-time indicated by the dashed line, so that it is then accelerated again in the direction of the applicator by the first on-time that follows in time. This diagram is intended only to illustrate the possible periodicity of the control state, which of course also applies analogously to the other sub-diagrams in FIGS. 4 and 6. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the processes that follow one another may have deviations from one another, so that the impact process can therefore be changed quickly and freely from one repetition to the next.

[0085] FIG8 shows a series of three separate schematic time curves Figure 8a ) to c), wherein T1 represents the curve of the opening and closing process of the first valve 1, and similarly, T2 represents the curve of the opening and closing process of the second valve 2, respectively. Therefore, the rising curve parts correspond to the first or second connection time, respectively. Compared with the time variation curve diagram in Figure 4, here, the second valve corresponding to curve T2 is opened in time before the first valve corresponding to curve T1. By changing the overlap between the two connection times, the reflection at the distal end of the movement path takes place earlier or later, as plotted on the horizontal axis in the three diagrams. In this example, the two connection times themselves (comparing the three individual illustrations with each other) are respectively of equal length. However, the second connection time is changed from Figure 8a) to Figure 8b) and then to Figure 8c ) is further shifted forward relative to the first on time, so that the overlap time is reduced. Because the part of the second valve opening time that is effective for reverse acceleration (before the overlap time) is Figure 8c ) is greater than Figure 8b ), and there it is greater than in Figure 8a ), so the projectile velocity present at the time of reflection at the distal end is correspondingly greater. Therefore, after reflection at the distal end, the projectile also moves again towards the applicator at a correspondingly greater velocity. In addition, the portion of the first valve opening time that is effective for the corresponding additional acceleration (after the overlap time) is also greater, as shown in comparison Figure 8a ) to c), so that the collision speed when colliding with the applicator changes from Figure 8a) to Figure 8b) And finally to Figure 8c ) increases for two reasons.

[0086] Fig. 9 shows a repeating sequence of pulses with two different projectile velocity ranges (at impact), the projectile velocity range being Fig. 9 In the figure, the reference numerals H and L are used. By varying the overlap time and the interval time, the control behavior can be shown by way of example. For each pulse with a projectile impact velocity approximately in the range H, two pulses with a projectile impact velocity approximately in the range L occur. Fig. 9 In particular, it has been shown that the collision conditions can change significantly from one collision to the next, here by approximately 3 times the collision speed. The fluctuations in the ranges H and L are unintentional and tolerance-induced variations (related to the actual measured values).

[0087] Fig.10 The control sequence of valves V1 and V2 in their time sequence is shown by way of example in order to achieve the following: Fig. 9 The projectile velocity sequence is shown. The different overlaps and spacings of the pulses relative to each other can be seen.

[0088] Fig.11 A clearer breakdown in time Fig.10 The sequence of the first pulses in FIG. 1 is shown here as a repeating sequence. It can be seen more clearly here that the valve opening times between V1 and V2 are relatively changed in their spacing and overlap, and the second on time is changed.

[0089] The above-mentioned FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 to FIG. Fig.11 The description involves Figures 1 to 3 . They can also be transferred to other devices and sizes by means of a simple estimation of the movement of the projectile. In particular, the reversal point of the movement of the projectile can be easily detected, for example, by means of the measuring coil, possibly by means of a similar measuring coil at the distal end of the movement path or by detecting the collision by a microphone. Based on this principle, a meaningful estimation can be made according to the above description.

[0090] Alternatively, the following operation can be adopted: preset the desired operating frequency and the desired supply pressure for the two valves, and for example also preset, so that the two valves are opened for a constant duration, such as opening 40% of the reciprocal of the preset frequency. Then, the controller can be set so that these valves are opened and closed accurately in phase at the starting time point. In this state, stable movement will not occur, because the projectile is loaded with pressure on both sides at the same time, or is not loaded with pressure on either side. Based on this, the offset between the opening time points can be gradually changed in both directions, that is, the second valve is gradually opened (and closed) earlier or later than the first valve. Starting from a certain time offset, that is, starting from a certain phase shift, a stable vibration state of the projectile appears, which can be determined, for example, by determining the collision by a microphone at the two ends of the motion path as mentioned. In addition, the collision intensity with the applicator can then be determined, and the described phase shift can be regarded as a regulating parameter of the intensity to a certain extent. In this form, a calibration curve can be determined.

[0091] Furthermore, for a specific vibration state determined in this form, the phase offset may be kept constant and the second valve opening duration (and possibly or alternatively the first valve opening duration) may be varied stepwise.

[0092] In individual cases, it may happen that insufficient pressure is preset for the desired frequency, that is to say that even when the two valves are actuated "in phase opposition", no vibration state with collisions at the ends of the movement path occurs. The pressure must then be increased slightly or the frequency reduced accordingly.

[0093] Similarly, suitable operating states can of course also be explored empirically in other forms. Finally, of course, the motion behavior of the projectile can be simulated at least approximately in a computational manner, and empirical tests can then be performed based on the results of these simulations.

Claims

1. A device for treating a human or animal body with mechanical pressure waves, the device comprising: - a projectile which is guided in the device along a path of movement, - an applicator (6) at the end of said movement path, - pneumatic means for applying pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) to move it along the movement path, in, The projectile (8) is designed to impact on the applicator (6) to generate the mechanical pressure wave, The pneumatic device comprises a double valve device (1, 2) for applying a pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction of the applicator (6) during a first on-time and a control device (54) for actuating the double valve device (1, 2), wherein the double valve device is used to apply a pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction of the applicator (6) during a first on-time and to apply a pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the return direction during a second on-time. Therein, the device is designed to vary the second switch-on time.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The double valve device (1, 2) comprises a first valve (1) and a second valve (2), wherein the first valve (1) is used to load the projectile (8) with pneumatic pressure in the direction toward the applicator (6), and the second valve (2) is used to load the projectile (8) with pneumatic pressure in the return direction, and the first valve and the second valve are preferably capable of being controlled independently of each other by the control device (54).

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein: At least one of the two valves (1, 2) is a two-way valve which, during a corresponding switch-on time, in a first switching position applies pneumatic pressure to a pneumatic volume between itself and the projectile (8) in order to apply pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) and in a second switching position ventilates the pneumatic volume.

4. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, designed to vary the second switch-on time in order to control the impact speed of the projectile (8) upon the impact.

5. The device according to claim 4 is designed to start the second on-time after the projectile (8) starts to move in the forward direction toward the applicator (6) and before the impact, and to end the second on-time after the impact, and to control the impact speed by changing the starting time point of the second on-time.

6. A device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the device is designed to use the second switch-on time for the return movement of the projectile (8) and to make the second switch-on time last beyond the new start of the movement of the projectile (8) in the forward direction towards the applicator (6).

7. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The second switch-on time during the return movement of the projectile (8) is varied.

8. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The control device (54) is designed to change the length of the second switch-on time during control.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein: The control device (54) is designed to keep the end point of the second switch-on time constant during control. 10 . The device according to claim 1 , which is designed to overlap the first switch-on time and the second switch-on time within an overlap time.

11. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The pneumatic device has a pneumatic compressor (53), wherein the device is designed to operate the pneumatic compressor (53) at the same rotational speed in the switched-on state in different control states with different impact speeds of the projectile (8), preferably, in principle, always at the same rotational speed in the switched-on state.

12. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is designed so that, when the projectile (8) moves from a position of the movement path away from the applicator (6) to the applicator (6) and back, the time period of the overlap time falling in the forward movement is greater than the time period falling in the return movement.

13. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The projectile (8) can be moved with an impact impulse of between 2 gm / s and 300 gm / s when impacting the applicator (6).

14. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the device is designed to change the impact speed and / or the duration of the combined reciprocating motion from one such combined reciprocating motion to the next in a repeated operating state having directly successive forward and return movements of the projectile (8) for impacting the applicator (6), 15. The device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a measuring device (31) for detecting the passage and / or speed of the projectile (8) at a position on the movement path, the measuring device (31) being coupled to the control device (54).

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