Nursing head

Abstract

Care devices, care heads and methods for cosmetic and therapeutic care. Some devices and care heads utilize a whipping action to provide a "pat" type strike to a user's skin. Other devices and care heads utilize the mass at the outer edge of the care head to provide a "click" type strike to the user's skin.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to a nursing head. Background Art

[0002] A variety of massage techniques are provided either by hand or by a range of electromechanical devices. There are several facial massage techniques, including cupping, kneading, bending, stroking, vibrating, tapping, slapping, percussion and pinching. These techniques are usually provided by a trained massage therapist or beauty therapist.

[0003] Various powered devices are used for cosmetic and therapeutic treatments. These devices cannot simulate most of the above techniques that need to be performed by a trained therapist. These devices are limited to providing vibration, kneading, tapping and percussion massage treatments, and those devices available on the market are expensive. Other devices deliver microcurrents to the skin to provide a range of treatments, including toning the facial skin and muscles. Other devices use light emitting diodes to deliver a range of therapeutic wavelengths to the facial skin to provide anti-aging and acne effects. There are also devices that use motors to oscillate or move a soft, elastic exterior to clean the skin or apply creams or lotions. These devices produce tiny external movements to provide a gentle oscillating vibration massage to the surface of the skin, but do not provide a slapping, tapping or percussion massage, nor do they stimulate the important subcutaneous layer of skin tissue.

[0004] One beauty massage device that provides kneading massage is the Clarisonic TM SmartPROfile, which has a rounded head and 3 protrusions, is about 20cm 2 The device does not produce a slapping, tapping or pounding massage.

[0005] Another device has large flat blades that can provide circular kneading skin massage to simulate hands rubbing and massaging the skin. The blades can be manually rotated to provide a tapping action. Given the internal mechanical structure, the maximum frequency of this device is expected to be less than 5Hz, which is not enough to provide vibration, slapping or tapping.

[0006] Another beauty care device provides a reciprocating tapping motion to the skin. Another device uses two fingers to alternately provide a tapping motion. No device utilizes a whipping motion to increase the kinetic energy that can be transferred to the subcutaneous layer of the skin or facial soft tissue.

[0007] Many of these devices require specialized drive units to provide the desired type of motion, increasing the cost to the consumer compared to using existing drive units such as electric toothbrushes.

[0008] There is no device on the market that produces a combination of two or more tapping, patting or knocking motions, nor can this be provided in a simple and low-cost device.

[0009] A recent clinical study (Philippe Humbert et al., 2015) showed that mechanical stimulation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue by delivering micro-blows to the skin surface was able to lead to clinically recognizable improvements in facial skin appearance. The study showed that mechanical stimulation showed an increase in hyaluronic acid, elastin, type 1 collagen and MMP9 contacts, as well as an improvement in fibroblast capacity. Significant improvements in different clinical signs related to skin aging and subject satisfaction were observed.

[0010] A more recent clinical study (Elisa Caberlotto et al., 2017) demonstrated that oscillatory mechanical stimulation of fibroblasts stimulated the production of collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and other important nutrients. Clinical evaluations showed significant improvements in various signs associated with skin aging, such as wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, uneven skin tone, puffiness, and tear trough depressions, resulting in an anti-aging response. This study demonstrated that mechanical stimulation of the facial subcutaneous tissue layer in the frequency range of 65 Hz to 85 Hz was most beneficial in stimulating the production of collagen, other proteins, and nutrients in fibroblasts, resulting in an anti-aging response. This correlated well with common oscillating electric toothbrushes that oscillate in the 65-85 Hz range. However, the conversion mechanism of these electric toothbrushes produces strong accelerations and force vectors, which require considerable mitigation in order to provide effective and painless mechanical stimulation to the facial skin tissue.

[0011] The whipping motion is a well-known phenomenon where the velocity of the tip increases exponentially, generating a large amount of kinetic energy from the small mass of the whipping tip. To the best of the applicant's knowledge, no device utilizes the whipping motion to maximize the energy delivered by the treatment device.

[0012] A microcurrent electrical neuromuscular stimulator or MENS device is a well-known facial skin care treatment. The device is used to apply weak electrical signals to the skin by applying a very small microampere [uA] current (less than 1 milliampere [mA]) to the tissue via electrodes placed on the skin.

[0013] There is a need for a therapeutic and / or beauty care device that can provide different or enhanced stimulation. Such a device can advantageously employ a standard electric toothbrush as its power source. These objectives should be understood separately from the objective of at least providing the public with a useful choice. Utility Model Content

[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment, a treatment head is provided, the treatment head having a central body configured to receive a drive shaft of a drive unit and one or more flexible lateral extensions extending from the central body, the one or more flexible lateral extensions being configured to produce a whipping action at the end of each flexible lateral extension when the massage head is driven by the drive unit.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions taper towards their distal edge.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions have a flat contact surface.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions have a convex contact surface.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the treatment head has a generally heart-shaped shape.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions of the treatment head have a generally finger-like shape.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the treatment head has an asymmetrical shape.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions extend from 15 to 50 mm from the centre of rotation of the treatment head.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the treatment head comprises an intermediate section configured to store and release torsional energy generated between the one or more flexible lateral extensions and a coupling configured to engage with the drive unit.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from a superelastic material.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from a soft elastic material.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from silicone or reactive silicone.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the material forming the treatment head has a Shore A hardness between 10-30.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the material forming the treatment head has a Shore A hardness between 30 and 90.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the material has a stiffness (modulus) between 27 MPa and 512 MPa as measured by ASTM D790.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the material has a stiffness (modulus) measured by ASTM D412 between 5 MPa and 20 MPa.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the material has an energy absorption capacity (tan Δ) measured by ASTM D 4065 (DMTA trace) between 0.2 and 0.5.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the treatment head is formed from different materials having different properties.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the outer layer of material is overmoulded onto the inner layer of material.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the outer layer is formed from a softer material than the inner layer.

[0035] According to an exemplary embodiment, there is provided a care device comprising:

[0036] i. a drive unit having a body and a drive shaft extending from the body; and

[0037] ii. A massage head driven by a drive shaft, the massage head having one or more flexible lateral extensions, each flexible lateral extension being configured to produce a whipping action at its end when the massage head is driven by a drive unit.

[0038] According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a care device comprising:

[0039] i. a drive unit having a body and a drive shaft extending from the body; and

[0040] ii. Care head, including:

[0041] a. The proximal end engaged with the main body;

[0042] b. The distal end driven by the drive shaft;

[0043] c. an intermediate section located between the proximal end and the distal end, configured to store and release torsional energy generated between the proximal end and the distal end; and

[0044] d. One or more flexible lateral extensions, each flexible lateral extension configured to produce a whipping action at its end when the massage head is driven by the drive unit.

[0045] According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a care device comprising:

[0046] i. a drive unit having a body and a drive shaft extending from the body, the drive shaft being configured to oscillate when driven; and

[0047] ii. Care head, including:

[0048] a. The proximal end engaged with the main body;

[0049] b. The distal end driven by the drive shaft;

[0050] c. an intermediate section located between the proximal end and the distal end, configured to store and release torsional energy generated between the proximal end and the distal end; and

[0051] d. One or more flexible lateral extensions, each flexible lateral extension configured to produce a whipping action at its end when the massage head is driven by the drive unit.

[0052] According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a care device comprising:

[0053] i. a drive unit having a body and a drive shaft extending from the body, the drive shaft being configured to oscillate within a first angular range when driven; and

[0054] ii. A care head driven by a drive shaft, the care head having one or more flexible lateral extensions, the ends of which are configured to oscillate within a range greater than 5 degrees of the first angular range when the care head is driven by the drive unit in free space.

[0055] According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a care device comprising:

[0056] i. a drive unit having a body and a drive shaft extending from the body,

[0057] ii. Care head, including:

[0058] a. The proximal end engaged with the main body;

[0059] b. The distal end driven by the drive shaft;

[0060] c. an intermediate section located between the proximal end and the distal end, configured to store and release torsional energy generated between the proximal end and the distal end; and

[0061] d. One or more flexible lateral extensions.

[0062] According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a care device comprising:

[0063] i. a drive unit having a body and a drive shaft extending from the body, the drive unit being configured to oscillate the drive shaft at a first selectable frequency and a second selectable frequency; and

[0064] ii. A care head driven by a drive shaft, the care head having one or more flexible lateral extensions, the flexible lateral extensions having peripheral edges, the peripheral edges being configured to oscillate to generate waves along each peripheral edge, wherein the waves have a first number of maxima at a first frequency and a different number of maxima at a second frequency.

[0065] According to another exemplary embodiment, a treatment head is provided, the treatment head having a central body configured to receive a drive shaft of a drive unit and one or more flexible lateral extensions extending from the central body, the one or more flexible lateral extensions being configured to produce a whipping action at the end of each flexible lateral extension when the massage head is driven by the drive unit.

[0066] According to another exemplary embodiment, a care head is provided, which has a central body and one or more flexible lateral extensions, wherein the central body is configured to receive a drive shaft of a drive unit, and the one or more flexible lateral extensions extend from the central body in a T-shaped configuration, and an equivalent point mass (point-mass) greater than 0.1 grams is arranged at or near the distal end of each flexible lateral extension.

[0067] According to another exemplary embodiment, a care head is provided, which is configured to receive a drive shaft of a drive unit, and has one or more flexible lateral extensions, the lateral extensions having contact surfaces or contact pads fixed to the outer areas of the lateral extensions, and the lateral contact surfaces or contact pads are configured to strike the user during treatment.

[0068] According to another exemplary embodiment, a care head is provided, which has a central body configured to receive a drive shaft of a drive unit and one or more flexible lateral extensions extending from the central body, the one or more flexible lateral extensions having a contact surface configured to engage the user's skin during use, one or more of the one or more flexible lateral extensions including an internal reservoir having an outlet at or near the contact surface.

[0069] According to another exemplary embodiment, there is provided a method of treating the skin of a subject, comprising: 2 A peak force between 2 and 10 N is repeatedly applied to the skin contact area between the electrodes.

[0070] It is recognized that the terms "comprises", "includes" and "comprising" can have exclusive or inclusive meanings in different jurisdictions. For the purpose of this specification, unless otherwise stated, these terms are intended to have an inclusive meaning, that is, they will be deemed to include the listed components directly involved when used, and may also include other unspecified components or elements.

[0071] The reference to any document in this specification does not constitute an admission that it is prior art, can be effectively combined with other documents, or forms part of the common general knowledge. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0072] The accompanying drawings, which are included in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and, together with the summary of the present invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, are used to explain the principles of the present invention, wherein:

[0073] Figure 1a A schematic front view of a care device according to an example is shown, the care device comprising a drive unit and a care head for connecting to a drive shaft of the drive unit;

[0074] Figure 1b Shows Figure 1a an enlarged view of the treatment head of the device shown;

[0075] Figure 2a shows a front view of a care head according to one example;

[0076] Figure 2b Shows Figure 2a A cross-sectional view along line AA of the care head shown in ;

[0077] Figure 2c shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0078] Figure 2d Shows Figure 2c A cross-sectional view of the care head shown along line BB;

[0079] Figure 2e The torsionally elastic intermediate cylindrical sleeve (i.e. Figure 2c A cross-sectional perspective view of the portion enclosed by the right bracket in FIG.

[0080] Figure 3a shows a schematic front view of a care head connected to a drive unit according to another example;

[0081] Figure 3b shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0082] Figure 3c Shows Figure 3b A cross-sectional view of the care head shown along line CC;

[0083] Figure 4a shows a front view of a treatment head having an over-molded section according to one example;

[0084] Figure 4b Shown along Figure 4a A cross-sectional view of line AA in FIG.

[0085] Figure 4c shows a front view of a treatment head having an overmolded region according to another example;

[0086] Figure 4d Shown along Figure 4c A cross-sectional view of line AA in FIG.

[0087] Figure 4e shows a front view of a treatment head having an overmolded region according to another example;

[0088] Figure 4f Shown along Figure 4e A cross-sectional view of line AA in FIG.

[0089] Figure 4g shows a front view of a treatment head having an overmolded region according to another example;

[0090] Figure 4h Shown along Figure 4g A cross-sectional view of line AA in FIG.

[0091] Figure 5a shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0092] Figure 5b Shows Figure 5a an end view of the treatment head shown;

[0093] Figure 5c shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0094] Figure 5d Shows Figure 5c an end view of the treatment head shown;

[0095] Figure 5e shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0096] Figure 5f Shows Figure 5e an end view of the treatment head shown;

[0097] Figure 5g shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0098] Figure 5h Shows Figure 5g an end view of the treatment head shown;

[0099] Figure 6a shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0100] Figure 6b Shows Figure 6a an end view of the treatment head shown;

[0101] Figure 6c shows a front view of a care head according to another example;

[0102] Figure 6d Shows Figure 6c an end view of the treatment head shown;

[0103] Figure 7a shows the rotational movement of a treatment head with a non-flexible arm without a whipping action;

[0104] Figure 7b to Figure 7e Shows Figure 5a and Figure 6a The whipping action of a treatment head with flexible arms of the type shown is produced and the contact surface strikes the soft tissue;

[0105] Figure 8a to Figure 8h Shown for Figure 5a , Figure 5c and Figure 5e The four different treatment heads shown in Figure 2 show how energy is transferred to soft tissue through the contact surface. Figure 8g Pat head is Figure 5c A replica of the tap attachment, but with a non-flexible arm, and their respective force measurements and other measurements are also illustrated, as compared to the one with a flexible arm. Figure 5c comparison;

[0106] Figures 9a to 9x A variety of treatment head shapes are shown, with the lower view of each treatment head being a front view and the upper view being an end view of the lower treatment head;

[0107] Fig.10a shows a front view of a heart-shaped care head according to an example;

[0108] Fig.10b Shows Fig.10a An end view of the heart-shaped care head at rest;

[0109] Fig.10c Shows Fig.10a An end view of a heart-shaped treatment head as it oscillates about its central axis via a drive shaft;

[0110] Fig.10d Shows Fig.10a A side view of the heart-shaped care head when driven at a first oscillation frequency in a first operating mode;

[0111] Fig.10e Shows Fig.10a An end view of the heart-shaped treatment head when driven in a first operating mode;

[0112] Fig.10f Shows Fig.10a A side view of the heart-shaped treatment head when driven at a second oscillation frequency in a second operating mode; and

[0113] Figure 10g Shows Fig.10a side view of the heart-shaped care head when driven at a third oscillation frequency in a third operating mode.

[0114] Fig.11a ((i), (ii), (iii)) show three end views of the care head when it is driven through three rotation stages at a first oscillation frequency in a first operating mode; and

[0115] Fig.11b ((i), (ii), (iii)) show Fig.11a Three end views of the treatment head are shown as it is driven through three rotation stages at a second oscillation frequency in a second operating mode.

[0116] Fig.12 The velocity and acceleration vector diagram of the conversion mechanism used in a common oscillating electric toothbrush is shown.

[0117] Figures 13a to 13d The four positions of a complete oscillation of a conversion mechanism used in a conventional oscillating electric toothbrush are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0118] Described below are examples of care devices suitable for providing cosmetic and / or therapeutic care. Many such devices may employ elements of prior massage accessories and drive units disclosed in the applicant's prior application with publication number WO2021 / 112690, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0119] An advantageous feature of this prior device is the storage and release of torque in a flexible sleeve that connects the body to the head of the care device. Here, the constant torque generated by the rotary electric motor is converted by a conversion mechanism into an oscillating torque, which is transmitted to the drive shaft of the electric toothbrush. When using the simple conversion mechanism of a standard electric toothbrush, the resulting oscillating speed, acceleration, and torque vector may be asymmetric between the first arc and the return arc, with the linear acceleration along the direction of travel of the arc increasing rapidly near the end of each arc and not being zero in the middle of the arc. This is particularly advantageous in the case of a conventional electric toothbrush. Fig.12 and Figures 13a to 13d and discussed in more detail below.

[0120] Figure 1a and Figure 1bA schematic front view of a care device according to an example is shown, the care device comprising a drive unit 2 having a care head 1 connected to a drive shaft 5 connected to an output shaft 8 of the drive unit 2 .

[0121] The drive unit 2 has a body that contains a battery 12 and a control circuit 11 (wired, not shown) that drives the electric motor 10. In this example, the rotational output of the electric motor 10 is converted into an oscillating output at its output shaft 8 by a motion conversion mechanism 9. When the care head 1 is driven by the drive unit 2 in free space, the output shaft 8 can be configured to oscillate within a desired angular range of less than 180°. In most embodiments, the desired angular range can be between 30 and 90 degrees.

[0122] The motion conversion mechanism 9 can be a four-point linkage used in standard electric toothbrushes. Ordinary oscillating electric toothbrushes use this simple mechanism, commonly known as a crank rocker, to convert the rotation of the electric motor into an oscillating motion that provides an oscillation arc of the output drive shaft that is typically between 45-50 degrees and an operating frequency that is typically in the range of 65Hz to 85Hz. This type of mechanism typically produces asymmetric speed, acceleration, and torque vectors over two cycles of each oscillation. In order to improve performance, one or more fixed points of the four-point linkage can be adjusted to change the oscillating motion and improve the speed, acceleration, and torque vector generated by an ordinary oscillating electric toothbrush during this period (see: "Design of the crank–rocker mechanism for various design cases based on the closed-form solution", H Mutlu 2020).

[0123] This can allow the oscillating motion range of the drive shaft to be adjusted by at least 30 degrees. In other examples, the motion conversion mechanism 9 can be a coulisse mechanism or a cam mechanism. In addition, the motion conversion mechanism 9 can include a linear oscillator that generates oscillations along the axis of the drive shaft to move the drive shaft longitudinally. This can be achieved by using a rotating ramp to change the longitudinal displacement of the drive shaft.

[0124] The motor 10 can be driven at a constant level. Alternatively, the motor 10 can be driven at multiple power levels. The user can select the power level through a user control on the drive unit 2. In the case where the motion conversion mechanism 9 oscillates the output shaft 8, it can ideally oscillate the output shaft 8 at a frequency greater than 30 Hz. In some applications, it may be desirable to oscillate the output shaft 8 at a frequency greater than 50 Hz. In other applications, it may be desirable to oscillate the output shaft 8 at a frequency between 50 Hz and 105 Hz. The drive unit can be configured to control the motor 10 to oscillate the drive shaft 8 at multiple different frequencies. These different frequencies can be selected by the user through user control. The different frequencies can be two or more user-selectable frequencies. Alternatively, the different frequencies can be continuously varied within an allowed range.

[0125] The care head 1 includes a central body 3, which is configured to engage with a drive shaft 5, for example, according to the connection of a toothbrush with an electric toothbrush driver. The drive shaft 5 is connected to the output shaft 8 of the drive unit 2. The care head 1 includes an intermediate section 13 between its proximal end (central body 3) and its distal end. The housing 6 is attached to the adapter plug 7 of the care head, which is inserted into the distal end of the drive unit 2. The intermediate section 13 is configured to store and release the torsional energy generated between the proximal end and the distal end when the drive shaft 5 oscillates the lateral extension 4 (two opposite lateral extensions in this example). In some examples, the intermediate section 13 can be configured to store and release a torque greater than 5N·mm during each oscillation. In some examples, the intermediate section 13 can be configured to store and release a torque between 10 and 35N·mm. In some examples, the intermediate section 13 is configured to store and release the torsional energy generated between one or more flexible lateral extensions and a connector, and the connector is configured to engage with the drive unit.

[0126] In this example, flexible lateral extensions 4 extend from either side of the central body 3. Different numbers and forms of lateral extensions may be employed in accordance with later examples. The flexible lateral extensions are believed to smooth these vectors to provide smoother and less abrupt changes in these different related measurements over each arc. A second benefit is that when the treatment head rotates to the end of its oscillation arc, a portion of this torque is stored as potential rotational kinetic energy in the intermediate section 13, which includes the flexible and generally cylindrical flexible lateral extensions (at Figure 2e ), when the care head returns along the same oscillation arc, this additional energy is released and added to the torque already normally provided by the conversion mechanism to provide a smoother total oscillating torque combination to the care head.

[0127] The maximum torque stored by the flexible lateral extension must not be too great so as not to put undue stress on the motor and consume too much energy from the battery, and the minimum torque must be sufficient to have the above-mentioned smoothing effect. Another feature is that the intermediate section provides a self-centering mechanism that allows the treatment head to oscillate while attached to the outer housing 6, which is rigidly attached to the drive unit.

[0128] Using a flexible lateral extension rather than a rigid extension can provide additional smoothing of the oscillating torque provided by the above-mentioned conversion mechanism. In many variations, hitting the skin with a rigid lateral extension can be very painful, and a flexible arm can allow energy to be provided in a less intensive and more comfortable manner.

[0129] Figure 2a Shown according to Figure 1b In addition, the contact pad 14 is added. Figure 2a Like numbers are used to identify like parts. The contact pads 14 may have a flat, convex or concave contact surface for contacting the user's skin. These contact pads may be formed from the same material as the lateral extensions 4, or from a different harder or softer material. The contact pads may be a metal, such as copper, or a magnetic material. The contact pads may be conductive and connected to a power source to provide current to the skin. The contact pads may also be replaced by a light source (e.g., an LED) connected to a power source to provide a range of light wavelengths to the skin. In Figure 2b As can be seen in the cross-sectional view of the massage head in FIG. 1 , the transverse extensions 4 taper towards their distal edges. The mass of the transverse extensions 4 also decreases towards their distal edges. The transverse extensions 4 may be formed of a flexible material configured to produce a whipping action at their ends when the massage head is driven by the drive unit 2. Suitable materials and a more detailed description of the whipping action will be provided below.

[0130] The central body 3 may be formed of a harder material than the lateral extensions to facilitate coupling with the shaft 5. The housing 6 may be formed of a harder material than the lateral extensions 4 to facilitate coupling of the treatment head 1 to the drive unit 2. The lateral extensions 4 and the middle section 13 may be coupled to the central body 3 geometrically (square cross-section on the axis of rotation) or chemically (bonded by using an overmolding process or other means). The middle section 13 may be coupled to the proximal end of the housing 6 geometrically (square cross-section on the axis of rotation) or chemically (bonded by using an overmolding process or other means).

[0131] Figure 2c and Figure 2d Shows Figure 2a A modified form in which the central region 3 has a transversely extending shape 15 (according to Figure 2aThis provides a good rotational connection but also changes the flex of the lateral extension to achieve the desired action. Figure 2e It is diagrammatically shown how the intermediate section 13 stores and releases rotational torque, as indicated by arrows 16 .

[0132] Figure 3a Another example is shown, which is Figure 2a and Figure 2b , and like elements have like numbers. In this example, the lateral extension 4 includes one or more conductive contact pads 14a, which provide a small current to the user along the internal wire 17a. The microcurrent is provided by connecting via a conductive pad 15a on the outside of the drive unit 2 using the user's hand, or between two or more contact pads, wherein the current, voltage, frequency, waveform and polarity are controlled by the control circuit 11, or by a battery and a control unit 15b incorporated in the treatment head 1.

[0133] exist Figure 3a In another variation, the lateral extension 4 includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 14b, providing therapeutic light treatment to the skin instead of the contact pads or along the central axis. The LEDs can generate light of one or more wavelengths and can be powered via internal wires 17b, where the power and LED wavelength are controlled by the control circuit 11 in the drive unit, or by a battery and control unit 15b, which is incorporated into the treatment head 1.

[0134] Microcurrent electrical neuromuscular stimulator devices are a well-known therapy for facial skin care. This stimulation technology has been around since the 1970s, and there are many devices on the market for personal or professional use. These devices typically operate with a DC voltage between 2.5 and 12 volts and provide current over a wide range, but the current is less than 1 milliampere (mA), and more commonly in the range of 0 to 600 microamperes (μA). These microcurrents are typically below the user's sensory threshold. These devices can provide microcurrents in a variety of waveforms (e.g., sine, square, biphasic, monophasic, pulsed, galvanic, etc.) and a variety of frequencies (typically between 0.3 and 300 Hz). The polarity of these microcurrent pulses is typically reversed at intervals ranging from 1 to 3 seconds.

[0135] Devices using light emitting diodes are another common facial skin care. These devices use light of different wavelengths, including red and blue light, and there are many personal and professional devices on the market. LED light therapy is now used by many aestheticians and dermatologists to care for acne, reduce scars, promote anti-inflammatory effects, and help the skin regenerate from the effects of aging. For anti-aging purposes, LED wavelengths are usually in the amber (~605nm) to red (~630nm to ~660nm) and infrared ranges (~855nm). Blue light is considered to be the most effective for caring for acne, and red light is considered to be the best for anti-aging care. There are a variety of personal handheld LED therapy devices on the market, from devices with a small number of LEDs to devices with a large number of LEDs on the surface of the care head. Some examples place many LEDs on the inside of a mask worn on the user's face.

[0136] Figure 3b and Figure 3c Another example is shown, which is Figure 2a and Figure 2b In this example, the lateral extension 4 includes an internal reservoir 18 containing a substance that is dispensed from the aperture 19 when in use, the internal reservoir 18 utilizing the whipping action of the lateral arms to generate centrifugal force to help deliver the substance to the skin surface.

[0137] Figure 4a to Figure 4g Examples of treatment heads with different central body and lateral element geometries are shown. The outer portion of the treatment head may be overmolded over the core element. Figure 4a and Figure 4b In the example shown, the lateral extensions 20 and central body 21 are formed as a single piece from a medium hardness material, while the intermediate section 22 is formed from a superelastic material to store and release rotational torque. Figure 4c and Figure 4d In the example shown, the lateral extensions 23 are formed of a superelastic material overmolded onto a core 24 formed of a medium hardness material. The intermediate section 25 is formed of the same or a different superelastic material to store and release rotational torque. Figure 4e and Figure 4f In the example shown, the lateral extensions 26 and the intermediate section 27 are formed of a superelastic material and are overmolded in one piece onto a core 28 formed of a medium durometer material. Figure 4g and Figure 4h The example shown is similar to Figure 4a - except that an intermediate section 29 formed of superelastic material also extends on top of the core 30 .

[0138] Figure 5a to Figure 5h Many treatment head designs are shown in outline, omitting some of the details from previous figures. Figure 5a and Figure 5b Shows Figure 2a A design of the type shown uses contact pads 31 and 32 having flat contact surfaces at the distal ends of transverse extensions suitable for a "slap" type device. Figure 5c and Figure 5d Shows Figure 2a A design of the type shown uses contact pads 33 and 34 having convex contact surfaces at the distal ends of the transverse extensions suitable for a "tap" type device. Figure 5e and Figure 5f A design is shown having balls 35 and 36 at the distal end of the lateral extensions suitable for a "thumper" type device. Figure 5g and Figure 5h Different shapes of lateral extensions are shown, which have no contact pads and the distal end directly contacts the skin. The pads and balls can be integrally formed with the lateral extensions, chemically bonded, mechanically fixed or bonded using adhesives.

[0139] In this specification, when reference is made to "slapping", this is relative to tapping or slamming, where a slapping typically has a small point mass moving at high speed, whose contact surface is flat and where the entire contact surface strikes the skin simultaneously, with energy being rapidly dissipated across the flat contact surface, thereby producing a slapping sound and minimal skin displacement. Users may find some slapping painful. Due to the low level of displacement, the maximum degree of mechanical stimulation is believed to act on the epidermis and dermis of the skin, with the resulting pressure waves penetrating the subcutaneous tissue also providing a degree of stimulation. Figure 8b The use of Figure 8a Device (using Figure 5a and Figure 5b Medium-shaped treatment head) provides slapping through flexible arms that utilize a whipping action.

[0140] In this specification, when reference is made to "tapping", it is in contrast to slapping or punching, where a tap generally has a medium point mass moving at a medium speed, its contact surface does not strike the skin simultaneously, and the energy is dissipated more slowly with a medium displacement of the skin. Here, the mechanical stimulation occurs deeper than slapping, but due to the increased level of displacement, the mechanical stimulation is thought to occur deeper in the subcutaneous tissue along with the stimulation produced by the pressure wave. Figure 8d The use of Figure 8c Device (using Figure 5c and Figure 5d Medium-shaped treatment head) provides tapping through flexible arms that utilize a whipping action. Figure 8h The use of Figure 8g Device (using Figure 5c and Figure 5dThe medium-shaped treatment head) provides tapping by a non-flexible arm that does not utilize a whipping action.

[0141] In this specification, when "heavy strokes" are mentioned, they are compared to tapping or patting, where heavy strokes generally have a larger point mass moving at a slower speed, with a larger and spherical contact surface, slower energy dissipation and maximum displacement of the skin and underlying soft tissues compared to patting. Here, the mechanical stimulation occurs deeper than tapping or patting, and due to the high displacement levels, the stimulation is believed to occur in the skin, subcutaneous tissue and all the way to the underlying muscles. The force felt by the user is similar to a percussion massage. Figure 8f The use of Figure 8e Device (using Figure 5e and Figure 5f The medium-shaped treatment head) is provided with a heavy blow by a flexible arm that uses a whipping action.

[0142] Figure 6a and Figure 6b Shows Figure 1a and Figure 1b An example of a treatment head of the type shown is shown in which the transverse extension 37 and the intermediate section are formed as a single piece. Figure 6b As shown, the transverse extensions 37 taper towards their distal edges and have a decreasing mass towards their distal edges.

[0143] Figure 6c and Figure 6d Shows Figure 1a and Figure 1b An example of a treatment head of the type shown in which a plurality of protrusions 38 extend from a treatment head 39 .

[0144] Figures 7a to 7d Shows Figure 5a and Figure 5b Operation of a treatment head of the type shown. Figure 7a The care head 39 shown has a contact surface 41 and a point mass 40m(p), which is located at a distance r from the center of the care head to the center of the contact surface, equivalent to the volume V and mass density of the hyperelastic material behind and including the contact surface. In this example and other examples, the point mass 40 has a mass of at least 0.10g. In many examples, point mass values ​​between 0.2 and 3g are effective. In the case of a contact pad, the distance r can be between 15 and 50mm, and where there is no contact pad, the lateral extension can extend from 15 to 55mm from the center of rotation of the care head. In both cases, a range of 20 to 35mm is particularly suitable.

[0145] exist Figure 7a, position "a" shows the initial position of the care head before oscillation. Position "b" shows the care head when driven to one end of the oscillation range of the drive shaft. Position "c" shows the care head when driven to the other end of the oscillation range of the drive shaft. The three dotted lines represent the positions of the drive shaft of the drive unit at three different positions within its angular drive range θ.

[0146] exist Figure 7a In the embodiment, the care head oscillates very slowly between any two ends of its oscillation range, so that the shape change of the care head between each position can be ignored. In this case, the end of the transverse extension 39 rotates in the same range θ as the drive shaft.

[0147] Figure 7b and 7c The treatment head is shown oscillating more rapidly between either end of its oscillation range. Figure 7b The treatment head is shown in its initial position d, at the end f of its counterclockwise range of movement, and in the middle position e. Figure 7a In contrast, the treatment head has an additional hyperextension Ω between positions. This hyperrotation stores torsional energy in the middle section and the lateral extension, and releases the torsional energy in a whip-like motion when the lateral extension rotates clockwise from position f, and accelerates the point mass 40 over this larger arc, causing the contact pad to impact the user's skin at a higher speed and significantly greater kinetic energy.

[0148] Figure 7c Rotation in the clockwise direction from the middle position g to the other end i of the rotation range and the middle position h is shown. Figure 7b and 7c The overextension of the ends of the lateral extensions when free to oscillate without contacting the skin is shown.

[0149] Figure 7d The contact pad 41 of the treatment head is shown contacting the soft tissue of the user. Due to the over-extension of the lateral extension, the release of the stored torsional energy creates a whipping effect at the end of the lateral extension, thereby producing a stroke that is beneficial for cosmetic and therapeutic treatments. Figure 7e An example is shown where the lateral extension 42 has no contact pad.

[0150] The lateral extension is preferably rotated at least 5 degrees further than the drive shaft (ie Figure 7b In the case where the lateral extension rotates at least 10 degrees more than the drive shaft, a greater whipping effect can be achieved. The angle Ω is preferably in the range of 10 to 40 degrees. When used under normal operating conditions and the treatment head is in contact with the user's skin, the normal operating arc Δα is as follows: Figure 7d shown.

[0151] When "soft tissue" is mentioned in this specification, it refers to the soft tissue of varying thickness that covers the face, neck and upper chest. The three main layers of soft tissue are skin (including a thin outer epidermis layer and a thicker dermis layer), dermis (i.e., subcutaneous tissue), and muscle. In the face and neck, the skin thickness usually varies between 1.7mm and 2.4mm, and the subcutaneous tissue can usually be between 2.0mm and 4.5mm thick. This is usually followed by muscle of varying thickness, and in many areas by bone.

[0152] A feature of many of the disclosed examples is the use of a "whipping action", and when "whipping action" is mentioned in this specification, it refers to a situation where the total oscillating torque oscillating through a defined arc is applied as a rotational force to a treatment head having flexible arms that generally taper toward the distal end and the arms are bent so that the distal end of the arm moves along a larger arc than the inner head (e.g. Figure 7a The oscillating torque creates a power wave that moves radially outward along the tapering arms, whose mass also decreases as their cross-sectional area decreases. The physics of the whipping action is extremely complex (“Whip Waves” Alain Goriely and Tyler McMillen 2003), but a key factor is the conservation of energy. Since kinetic energy (KE) must be conserved, and KE = 1 / 2·m·v 2 , so that as the wave moves along the arm and the mass decreases, the velocity generally increases exponentially toward the end of the arm. If, at the discontinuity, the cross-sectional area and mass have a sufficiently large general tendency to decrease toward the end, the effect may still be present.

[0153] exist Figure 7b and Figure 7c In the example shown, the total combined oscillating torque reaches a maximum positive value at one end of its oscillation arc and a maximum negative value at the other end of the arc. Over the oscillation arc, the ends of the arms reach maximum velocity just past the middle of each arc and reach zero velocity at the end of each arc.

[0154] The benefit of this feature is that the larger the arc described by the treatment head tip, the greater the maximum velocity of the treatment head tip, which exponentially increases the maximum kinetic energy of the small point mass of the flexible arm provided by the contact surface of the treatment head tip when in contact with the skin.

[0155] The combined benefit of the increased kinetic energy and the flexible sleeve is that the treatment device can deliver an optimal and comfortable range of energy to the skin at the point of impact and provide more effective therapeutic mechanical stimulation than devices without these features.

[0156] When the contact surface impacts the soft tissue, the rotational and linear kinetic energy provided by the care device (such as Figure 7d and Figure 7e The kinetic energy is provided by the point mass via the contact surface, which is the surface area near the end of the arm that contacts the skin and transfers the energy to the soft tissue.

[0157] When the contact surface of the care head hits the skin, the force F of the point mass is F = m(p)·a, where a = the deceleration of the point mass from the moment the contact surface hits the skin to the point of maximum skin displacement when the velocity reaches zero.

[0158] The point mass starts with zero velocity and maximum acceleration at the beginning of each oscillation arc Δα and reaches maximum velocity just past the center or each arc, as Fig.12 As shown in the chart ( Figures 13a to 13d Four positions A to D of a complete oscillation of a conversion mechanism used in a conventional oscillating electric toothbrush are shown, wherein the bar linkage dimensions are: AB = 2.2 mm; BC = 9 mm; CD = 5.4 mm; and AD = 10 mm). Figure 7d and Figure 7e As shown, when the point mass is accelerated to the impact point when its velocity is at or close to its maximum velocity v(Max), the full range of the oscillation arc Δα is as follows Figure 7d Kinetic energy KE is the energy provided by the care head and absorbed by the skin tissue, where KE = 1 / 2·m(p)·v(Max) 2 This equation demonstrates how the combined torque acting on a flexible conical arm that overextends with each oscillation creates a whipping effect that provides a higher v(Max) with the benefit of providing more energy and greater force with less point mass than without the effect.

[0159] This maximum speed is directly related to the frequency with which the treatment head contacts the skin during normal operation. Figure 8a , Figure 8c , Figure 8e and Figure 8g The exemplary treatment head shown in has an operating frequency of approximately 50 Hz, which provides a reasonable level of mechanical stimulation, but is lower than the optimal frequency between 65 and 85 Hz mentioned above. Figure 2e By adjusting the size of the front and rear arms and / or the lateral arms, the operating frequency of the care head can be increased to achieve an optimal frequency range.

[0160] In addition to kinetic energy and force, there are many physical equations and measurements that describe the generation and delivery of force, energy, and pressure delivered by the device to the soft tissue. Figure 8a , Figure 8c and Figure 8e These examples utilize a flexible tapered arm, and the main physical equations and measurements are further discussed in the description section below.

[0161] The different treatment heads of the treatment device offer several key therapeutic benefits:

[0162] (i) Clinical trials have demonstrated that mechanical stimulation of fibroblasts in facial soft tissue within a frequency range of 65-85 Hz leads to the production of anti-aging proteins and nutrients by the cells;

[0163] (ii) the energy delivered to the soft tissue is converted into heat, wherein heat is a well-known therapy that stimulates blood flow in the soft tissues of the face and neck area, which results in increased nutrition and oxygen to the area;

[0164] (iii) the rapid oscillating percussive forces acting on the soft tissue emulate the well-known percussive massage therapy, resulting in increased blood flow and enhanced conditioning of the underlying muscle tissue;

[0165] (iv) Patting or tapping the skin is a well-known technique that tightens the skin and increases blood flow;

[0166] (v) Patting or dabbing the skin after applying lotions and creams increases their absorption;

[0167] (vi) providing microcurrent to the skin is well known as a form of cosmetic electrotherapy and is believed to rejuvenate the skin;

[0168] (vii) The use of LED therapy for the skin is an established treatment for the effects of aging and acne.

[0169] The three different treatment heads of the treatment device can be used as examples to illustrate the different types of treatment benefits described above. The way in which the user experiences the three different treatment heads can be called tapping, patting or thumping.

[0170] Figures 8a to 8f An example of three different treatment heads is shown in to illustrate the differences between tapping, patting and thumping and their performance measurements. Figure 8g and Figure 8his an example of a treatment head formed of relatively non-flexible polycarbonate, which is exactly the same shape as the pat treatment head. Each of these four examples has been user-tested on different treatment areas of the face, neck and upper chest, as further detailed in Table 1 below. Most of the treatment heads are comfortable to use, however an important consideration is that the intensity of treatment of some of these specific example treatment heads is painful on some very sensitive areas of the face. The intensity of the treatment and whether it reaches the user's pain threshold depends on several key factors discussed further below.

[0171] The physical characteristics and ultimate form of the therapeutic stimulation experienced by the user differs among the four example attachments described above and depends on a variety of factors:

[0172] (i) Thickness of soft tissues on the face, neck, and upper chest (see Table 1 for skin thickness and sensitivity);

[0173] (ii) the sensitivity of the skin and soft tissue area impacted (see Table 1 for skin thickness and sensitivity);

[0174] (iii) shape, mass, area, volume and material composition of the arms and contact surfaces;

[0175] (iv) the basic physical properties of the contact surface that strikes the skin and transmits forces, energy, and pressures to the soft tissue; and

[0176] (v) How the user manipulates the handle of the drive unit to adjust the striking angle of the treatment head to conform to the contours of the face and neck, while also adjusting the intensity of the treatment by moving the treatment head closer to or further away from different areas of the face and neck and their associated sensitivities.

[0177] When referring to "pressure intensity" in this specification, we mean the change in pressure P over time (dP / dt), which we have found to be a useful measure of the pain a user may feel on their skin from a tap, slap or whack. Pressure is force / area (N / m 2 ) and in the care device, the peak pressure P(peak) is the peak force F(peak) / area of ​​the contact surface in contact with the skin. The peak pressure intensity PI(peak) is the peak pressure divided by the time t(peak) that the force acts on the skin and is defined in this article by the formula PI(peak)=P(peak) / t(peak) and is measured in MPa (MPascals / s, megapascals / second). This measurement does not seem to have been used before in physical properties, and dP / dt is only used as a blood pressure measurement.

[0178] An important input when designing care devices and different attachments is calculating and measuring peak pressure intensity to ensure that the user does not feel pain. This is very important because different attachments can have very different physical and material properties. This measurement is one of three important measurements for evaluating intensity and pain thresholds, the other two being peak pressure and penetration depth, and will be discussed in more detail below.

[0179] To calculate the peak pressure intensity, a Flexiforce operating at 5000 Hz was used. TM High-speed force sensors measure peak force and impulse energy, and calculate peak pressure intensity based on the contact surface area and the time it takes for the peak pressure to strike the skin. To ensure reasonable accuracy, a variety of different attachments have been used to impact artificial soft tissues with thicknesses of 5 mm and 12 mm, with the force sensor placed between the contact surface and the soft tissue and measured. These artificial tissues are based on Smooth-On TM The recommended design uses Ecoflex 00-30plus powermesh for the skin layer, Ecoflex gel for the subcutaneous layer and Ecoflex 00-30 for the muscle layer, the relative sizes reflect the average thickness of these three different layers.

[0180] The four different attachments were also tested at different locations on the face, neck, and upper chest, and their strength was recorded, with a particular focus on impact pain. By comparing these three important measurements, the peak pain intensity thresholds for these measurements could be determined, which informed the final design of the various attachments so that they could be comfortably used at different locations on the face and neck, each with its own thickness and sensitivity.

[0181] In the four example calculations, the key difference is that for the non-flexible arm, all measurements are much greater than for the three example treatment heads with flexible arms, and are too painful to use anywhere on the face, neck, and upper chest. For tapping, the peak pressure intensity is much higher than for patting, which is higher than for pounding, and in this example, tapping is useful and effective for all parts of the treatment area, except for the very highly sensitive skin just under the eyes, which is painful for all example treatment heads. The difference in peak pressure intensity is reflected in their different surface areas, as shown in Figure 2. Figure 8a to Figure 8h , and Table 1 shows some important measurements for these four example attachments.

[0182] In our example of three different care heads, the three peak forces F (peak) of tapping, tapping and hitting are 4.0N, 6.4N and 9.0N respectively (as shown in Figure 2). Fig.12As shown in Figure 2 ). Assuming that their contact surfaces have different areas, their respective peak pressures P (peak) are quite similar, at 65, 70, and 42 kPa. However, when impacting skin tissue, these peak forces and peak pressures are delivered in very different timeframes. FlexiForce measurements show that for the three heads, the slap is 0.0002 seconds, the light tap is 0.0004 seconds, and the heavy tap is 0.0008 seconds. The slap provided by this example head is on the borderline of pain, while the light tap is comfortable and the heavy tap is the least intense. In our three examples, the PI (peak) for the slap, light tap, and heavy tap are 327, 186, and 40 MPa / s, respectively. This measurement allows the designer to estimate the pain intensity of the impact and design the attachment head accordingly. For Figure 8d The fourth example of a solid care head, with key measurements of F (peak) 16.3N, P (peak) 189kPa and PI (peak) 946MPa / s, is significantly greater than, and significantly more painful than, the three example care heads with flexible lateral arms.

[0183] In order to effectively provide treatment without causing too much pain to the user, the treatment device must be able to adapt to the different thicknesses of soft tissue and the sensitivity of the skin on the face and neck. When the soft tissue is close to the lower skull or jawbone, the sensitivity is also related to the thickness of the soft tissue.

[0184] The pain threshold depends on the thickness of the skin tissue (especially when the skin tissue overlies the bone) and the penetration depth of the contact surface. If the penetration depth presses the skin tissue against the underlying bone, it will be painful. If the distance is too close, it may be painful and bruising may occur. In this case, peak pressure is important as a measure of intensity and pain threshold in order to design effective treatment heads to accommodate the many different contact surfaces of different treatment heads and different areas of the face, neck and upper chest.

[0185] When skin tissue is thicker than penetration depth and tapping is used (note, penetration is minimal when tapping is used), peak pressure intensity is important as an additional measure of intensity and pain threshold.

[0186] There are several common anatomical areas on the face and neck. The table below lists the major areas and their respective thickness and pain sensitivity. Please note that these measurements are averages and can vary greatly between individuals. Also note that the skin in these areas is on average about 1mm thicker in men than in women. User testing of pain thresholds in different areas of the face and neck has determined that pain thresholds vary in different areas of the face.

[0187] Sensitivity and pain thresholds were tested in different care areas of three example care heads of tapping, patting and thumping, all of which were soft and flexible. As a comparison, the results of a patting care head formed of a solid non-flexible material are also included. The following table includes the penetration depth Δd of the contact surface of the care head on the 12 mm thick artificial skin tissue mentioned elsewhere, and compares it with the average and minimum thickness of different care areas to demonstrate where the care head is effective and where it will feel painful when used. These relationships are very important for setting the maximum pain threshold to design a care head that is effective in all care areas or a care head designed for a specific care area (such as just below the eyes).

[0188] Table 1 below also includes key intensity-related metrics for the different treatment heads, namely peak impact force, peak pressure, and peak pressure intensity. Finally, the table below provides a measure of the intensity experienced by users of the different treatment heads using a measurement from 1 to 5.

[0189]

[0190] As shown in Table 1, as a form of care, using a non-flexible care head is too painful, while the soft flexible care head provides more effective and comfortable care. The solid care head is much larger in all measurements and is too painful in all care areas. In addition, the solid arm of the conversion mechanism connected to the ordinary electric toothbrush makes the toothbrush handle difficult to hold when it is hit hard against any surface.

[0191] As shown in Table 1, although peak force is important, more important is the surface area of ​​the contact surface penetrating the skin and the depth at which the contact surface strikes the skin tissue. This is clearly demonstrated by heavy strikes, which have a larger surface area and a reasonable level of skin depth, and even though the peak force is higher than tapping or patting, its two pressure measurements are much lower.

[0192] As shown in Table 1, in cases where Δd approaches or exceeds the skin depth, the treatment head is too painful, and the current design of the tapping and pounding examples is only suitable for certain treatment areas. However, tapping is suitable for all treatment areas due to its shallow penetration depth. In the case of tapping, the contact surface is small and the peak velocity is high. The two key measurements are peak pressure and peak pressure intensity. These are useful because they are based on the skin area being hit, and in the case of peak pressure intensity, this also reflects that the peak pressure is applied for a very short time.

[0193] The above information helps design the shape of the treatment head and also helps determine the pain threshold to ensure the treatment head is effective and not painful. The pain thresholds for three key measurements of three example treatment heads are shown in the two tables below, depending on whether the skin tissue thickness is <5mm or >5mm.

[0194] For thinner skin treatment areas, the key measurement to determine the pain threshold is the penetration depth Δd, which needs to be less than 2 mm to provide acceptable and effective treatment, as shown in Table 2. Once this is met, the other two metrics must also be met.

[0195]

[0196] For treatment areas with thicker skin, as shown in Table 3, penetration depth is much less relevant and the key to determining the pain threshold is the peak pressure. Once this requirement is met, the peak pressure intensity measured last must also be met.

[0197]

[0198] In addition to the important measurements of peak pressure and peak pressure intensity, there are several other important measurements that support the design of the treatment head and are important in ensuring that the treatment head provides sufficient mechanical stimulation to provide a useful therapeutic benefit.

[0199] refer to Figure 8a to Figure 8h , the following were tested:

[0200] a) Figure 5a A "slap" type treatment head of the type shown having a low point mass.

[0201] b) Figure 5c A "dab" style treatment head of the type shown having a medium point quality.

[0202] c) Figure 5e A "thumper" style treatment head of the type shown has a high point mass in the form of a ball.

[0203] d) For comparative purposes, Figure 5c A "firm dab" style treatment head of the type shown is formed from a relatively inflexible material.

[0204] In Table 4 below, the test results for these four designs are presented using the following measurements:

[0205] (i) I = measured & calculated total moment of inertia of the attachment arm (kg·m 2 ), where I = ∑(m(i)·r(i)), which is most relevant to treatment heads formed from relatively inflexible materials.

[0206] (ii) m(p) = point mass (kg) at the centre of the contact surface at the end of the arm, which is equivalent to the volumetric mass and the specific mass density of the material.

[0207] (iii) Δα = the total angle (in degrees) of the normal operating arc that m(p) traverses when the arm is overextended in the whipping motion arm from the start of the arc to the point of contact.

[0208] (iv) v(Max) = m(p) is the maximum velocity when impacting the skin (m / s), and increasing v(Max) will increase the kinetic energy exponentially.

[0209] (v) KE = kinetic energy of m(p) (J or N·m), which is the energy transferred to the soft tissue with each blow, where KE = 1 / 2·m(p)·v(Max) 2 .

[0210] (vi) p = momentum of m(p) at the time of contact (kg·m / s), where p = m(p)·v(Max).

[0211] (vii) a(d) = m(p) Average deceleration after initial contact with the skin (m / s 2 ), where a(d) = v(Max) / Δt, Δt = the total time the force acts on the skin as measured by the FlexiForce system.

[0212] (viii) IF(Avg) = average impact force m(p) acting on the skin (N or kg·m / s 2 ), which is based on measurements of an Exilim ex EX-F1 "Slomo" video camera running at 1200 frames per second, where IF(Avg)=m(p)·v(Max) / Δt.

[0213] (ix) F(peak) = peak force hitting the skin (N or kg·m / s 2 ), which is measured by a high speed FlexiForce impact force sensor system running at 5000 Hz, with a time of 0.0002 s between each force measurement of the FlexiForce system. T(peak) = time when F(peak) occurs.

[0214] (x) J(peak) = peak impulse hitting the skin (N·s or kg·m / s), where J(peak) = F(peak)·t(peak).

[0215] (xi) J(total) = Total impulse (N·s or kg·m / s), which is the area under the force / time curve measured by the FlexiForce system.

[0216] (xii) P(peak) = Peak pressure felt by the skin (kPa or N / m 2 ), where P(peak) = F(peak) / area of ​​contact surface.

[0217] (xiii) PI(peak) = peak pressure intensity felt by the user (MPa / s), where PI(peak) = P(peak) / t(peak).

[0218] (xiv) W = work energy (joules J or kg·m 2 / s 2 or Wh), which converts the impact force of each impact on the contact surface into heat in the soft tissue, where W = F (peak) d (displacement of the skin) or W = 1 / 2 m (p) v (max) 2 .

[0219] (xv) P = power absorbed by the soft tissue while providing function over a period of time (Watts or Joules / second).

[0220]

[0221]

[0222]

[0223]

[0224] From this table, it can be seen that the following performance indicators are ideal:

[0225] The maximum linear velocity of the contact surface when it impacts the skin is greater than 4 m / s, preferably greater than 6 m / s, and preferably between 6 m / s and 10 m / s.

[0226] the kinetic energy of the point mass of the arm at the contact surface of the treatment head when the treatment head impacts the user's skin is greater than 0.002 joules,

[0227] Preferably greater than 0.004 Joule, and preferably between 0.005 Joule and 0.08 Joule.

[0228] ● When the treatment head hits the user's skin, the momentum of the point mass of the arm at the contact surface of the treatment head is greater than 0.001N·s. ● During the time of hitting the user's skin, the peak force of the point mass of the contact surface of the treatment head is greater than 2N, and preferably

[0229] The ground is between 2N and 10N.

[0230] The peak impulse of each blow is greater than 0.0005 N·s, preferably greater than 0.0004 N·s, and preferably within 0.0005

[0231] Between N·s and 0.002N·s.

[0232] The total impulse of each blow is greater than 0.0006 N·s, preferably greater than 0.0008 N·s, and preferably between 0.0008 N·s and 0.02 N·s.

[0233] The peak pressure of each blow is greater than 10 kPa, preferably greater than 20 kPa, preferably less than 100 kPa, preferably between 20 kPa and 100 kPa.

[0234] The peak pressure intensity of each blow is less than 300 MPa / s, preferably between 20 MPa / s and 300 MPa / s.

[0235] ●The power per stroke is greater than 0.003J, and preferably less than 0.08J.

[0236] ●The power of each stroke is greater than 0.00005 watts, preferably less than 0.001 watts.

[0237] ●The total striking power provided within 1 minute is greater than 0.25 watts.

[0238] The total moment of inertia of each arm of the treatment head is at least 300g·mm 2 , preferably 400g·mm 2 Up to 2500g·mm 2 between.

[0239] Need to select the superelastic material for lateral extension and middle section to provide above-mentioned performance.The superelastic material used in these parts is preferably soft elastic material.Siloxane or reactive silicone material is a kind of selection.These will preferably have Shore A hardness (Shore A hardness) between 10 and 30.Thermoplastic polyurethane is another selection.This material preferably has Shore A hardness between 30 and 90.This material ideally has the stiffness (stiffness) (modulus) between 27MPa and 512Mpa measured by ASTM D790.This material preferably has the stiffness (modulus) between 5Mpa to 20Mpa measured by ASTM D412.This material preferably has the energy absorption capacity (tan Δ) between 0.2 and 0.5 as measured by ASTM D 4065 (DMTA trace).It is obvious from the above that the material forming the middle section can be selected from thermosetting polysiloxane; Thermoplastic polyurethane and thermoplastic siloxane copolymer.

[0240] like Figures 4a to 4h As shown, the treatment head can be formed of different materials with different properties. The outer layer (one or more layers) can be formed of a softer material than the inner layer. The outer layer of superelastic material as described above can be overmolded on the inner layer of material. Figure 4b The materials in 23 and 25 may be different hyperelastic materials.

[0241] The following material table gives Figure 1a and Figure 1bDetails of preferred materials and properties are for the examples shown, but apply to all examples. In this table, numbers in brackets refer to the material in the column with that number.

[0242] Materials

[0243]

[0244] **Able to form strong chemical bonds

[0245] *Bonded with copolyamide

[0246] Figures 9a to 9x A number of different possible treatment head geometries are shown, with plan views below and end views above.

[0247] Figure 9a and Figure 9b An asymmetric design is shown, where the treatment head 43 has a ball 44 on one lateral extension and a contact pad 45 on the other lateral extension. This design can provide different treatments from each lateral extension.

[0248] Fig.9c and Figure 9d Shows something like Figure 2a design, in which the contact pads 47 and 48 are arranged on the lateral extension of the care head 46.

[0249] Fig.9e and Figure 9f A treatment head 49 is shown having lateral extensions 50 and 51 below the centre of rotation.

[0250] Figure 9g and Figure 9h Shows Fig.9c design, having contact pads 52 and 53.

[0251] Figure 9i and Figure 9j A treatment head 54 is shown having balls 55 and 56 at the ends of the transverse extensions. This design may be particularly suitable for percussion massage.

[0252] Figure 9k and Figure 9l A treatment head 57 is shown having a plurality of protrusions 58 extending from the treatment head.

[0253] Figure 9m and Figure 9n A treatment head 59 is shown having a large number of lateral extensions 60. This design is suitable for a drive unit that produces pure rotation.

[0254] Figure 9o and Figure 9pAn asymmetric design is shown, in which one lateral extension 61 has a different shape than another lateral extension 62. The longitudinal extension of the lateral extension 61 beyond the central area of ​​the treatment head can be configured to propagate longitudinal waves along the longitudinal extension. This design can provide different therapeutic care from each lateral extension.

[0255] Figure 9q and Figure 9r A treatment head 63 having a heart shape is shown, wherein two lateral extensions extend beyond the longitudinal extension of the central region of the treatment head and can be configured to propagate longitudinal waves (such as Figure 10a to Figure 10g ).

[0256] Figure 9s and Figure 9t A generally oval-shaped treatment head 64 is shown.

[0257] Figure 9u and Figure 9v A treatment head 65 is shown having orthogonally arranged balls 66 to 69 attached to the ends of the transverse extensions. This design is also suitable for drive units that produce pure rotation.

[0258] Figure 9w and Figure 9x Another design is shown having a plurality of protrusions 70 extending from a treatment head 71. This design may provide a gentler mechanical stimulation.

[0259] Figure 10a to Figure 10g It shows that when driven in different modes, Figure 9i A heart-shaped treatment head 63 of the type shown. Fig.10a shows a plan view of the treatment head in a resting state, Fig.10b An end view of the treatment head is shown in a resting state. Fig.10c An end view of an oscillating care head is shown, with the solid line showing one end of the care head's oscillation range and the dashed line showing the other end. Fig.10d is a side view of the treatment head 63 in vibration striking the user's skin, Fig.10e This is its end view.

[0260] Fig.10f It is shown how, at a higher oscillation speed, two maxima 72 and 73 are produced in the peripheral edge of the treatment head 63 oscillating about a single node 74. This result can also be produced by adjusting the shape and cross-sectional area of ​​the treatment head. Thus, the treatment head can be designed and driven so that the peripheral edge of the transverse extension oscillates to produce a wave along the peripheral edge that has a first number of maxima at a first frequency and a different number of maxima at a second frequency. The benefit of this is that the oscillation speed is slightly increased and the number of mechanical stimulations per oscillation is doubled, wherein the stimulation is more gentle. Figure 10gIt is shown how oscillating about two nodes 78 and 79 produces three maxima 75, 76 and 77, with similar benefits as described above.

[0261] Fig.11a and Fig.11b Different operating modes are shown when the care head is driven at different oscillation frequencies. Fig.11a In the figure, the middle view (ii) shows the middle position of the care head when the drive shaft is halfway through its drive range, while the upper view (i) and the lower view (iii) show the shape of the care head 80 at either extreme of the drive range of the drive shaft 81. The dotted lines represent the shaft angles of the drive shaft at the extreme and middle positions of rotation. It can be seen that at the two extremes of rotation, the ends of the care head 80 have considerable overextension.

[0262] Fig.11b The same view is shown, but in this case the treatment head 80 is driven at a higher frequency. In this case the treatment head operates in a different mode and the lateral extensions can be seen to oscillate around the intermediate nodes 82 and 83.

[0263] The above device can be used for a range of beauty, massage and therapeutic purposes. 2 By repeatedly applying a peak force between 2.0 and 10.0 N on a skin contact area between 10 and 20 mm, effective care can be provided through a series of different care heads. The peak impulse in the care is preferably between 0.0008 and 0.002 N·s. The peak pressure is preferably between 10 and 100 kPa, preferably 20 to 100 kPa. The peak pressure intensity is preferably between 20 and 300 MPa / s. The skin contact area is preferably between 20 and 300 mm 2 The repetition frequency of the strokes is preferably between 50 and 105 Hz. During the treatment, the substance can also be applied by the treatment head. During the treatment, the Figure 3a During treatment, the current can also be supplied by Figure 3a The treatment head provides LED therapy.

[0264] The above examples improve the energy efficiency of the treatment motion by utilizing whipping motions in providing some treatments. This effectively provides energy to the soft tissue, thereby providing several major therapeutic benefits described above. The treatment head can continuously and repeatedly provide effective patting, tapping or percussion mechanical stimulation, which can also be extended to include applying lotions or creams and / or microcurrent treatments and / or LED treatments.

[0265] The exemplary device can provide different treatment properties for different parts of the face and neck, penetrating to different depths within the soft tissue; a low-power version for beauty treatments, and a more powerful variant for providing therapeutic massage to other parts of the body. The exemplary device allows the user to adjust the treatment properties by adjusting the distance of the device to the face and neck, and also adjust the grip to reduce the angle of the arc of the contact surface, thereby reducing the force provided to the skin.

[0266] The exemplary device can provide mechanical stimulation at a certain frequency to stimulate the production of collagen, etc. in fibroblasts. This can be achieved by providing high-frequency mechanical stimulation, and it is recommended to treat twice a day, twice a day in the morning and evening, each time for about 3 minutes, 2 minutes on each side of the face, and 2 minutes on the neck. The exemplary care device can operate at a load between 65Hz and 80Hz, and provide mechanical stimulation to the soft tissues of the face and neck at an optimal frequency range, which has been shown in recent studies to reduce various signs associated with skin aging.

[0267] A range of inexpensive interchangeable treatment heads can be attached to a standard oscillating electric toothbrush, thereby taking advantage of commonly available power supplies and increasing the utility of the electric toothbrush. This allows the user to select different treatments by using different interchangeable heads. The drive unit need not be limited to use with an electric toothbrush, and the use of a dedicated drive unit enhances the user's ability to adjust the nature and intensity of the treatment with the example treatment head. The variable oscillation speed allows the user to adjust the intensity of the treatment. Adjusting the oscillation arc also provides the user with another method of adjusting the intensity of the treatment.

[0268] In addition to facial massage care applications, the exemplary care device can also be used for other potential medical applications, such as providing therapeutic care for skin diseases, skin injuries or muscle repair. In the case of providing a fluid reservoir and / or providing electrical therapy and / or providing LED therapy, a series of combinations can be applied.

[0269] For treatment heads with fluid reservoirs, these may be filled via a syringe or applicator device with an appropriately shaped nozzle, and the user may inject their preferred lotion, cream or oil. Under normal operation, the fluid will be released in nominal amounts each time the contact surface is impacted, aided by centrifugal force, which is the force to which the fluid in the reservoir is subjected when oscillating.

[0270] For a care head that incorporates the added benefit of microcurrent stimulation, the preferred method is based on the common characteristics of many other microcurrent devices, where the voltage is in the range of 2.5-12 volts DC and the current is less than 1 mA. Various waveforms (e.g., sine waves, square waves, biphasic waves, monophasic waves, pulse waves, electric waves, etc.) can be provided and transmitted in a frequency range between 0.5 and 300 Hz. The preferred frequency is the oscillation frequency of the care head, which has the advantage of providing mechanical stimulation while performing microcurrent care. In the case where the care head has a fluid reservoir and microcurrent stimulation, the reservoir can be filled with a suitable conductive fluid to help provide microcurrent.

[0271] For a treatment head that incorporates the added benefit of LED therapy, the preferred approach is based on common features of many other LED therapy devices. A variety of ranges of wavelengths can be provided, with preferred wavelengths being in the red and blue spectrum depending on the form of treatment desired. For anti-aging treatments, the preferred wavelengths are between 605 nm and 855 nm. For acne treatments, the preferred wavelengths are between 400 and 470 nm.

[0272] Another benefit of the treatment heads is the way the energy is delivered to the soft tissue. For tapping, the mechanical stimulation and associated energy is absorbed primarily in the upper layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, whereas for heavy tapping, the mechanical stimulation and associated energy is absorbed deeper into the soft tissue, up to the muscles. For light tapping, the energy delivered falls between these two treatment heads. All three treatment heads offer similar therapeutic benefits.

[0273] When the above-described treatment head is combined with one or more of the additional three treatments (ie, fluid application, microcurrent treatment, and / or LED therapy), the following additional benefits are provided to the user.

[0274]

[0275] Another example of a treatment head is one that can achieve all of the above treatments in a single treatment head, while providing these multiple benefits.

[0276] A feature of the care device is that multiple attachments can be designed to provide effective therapeutic care to different areas of skin tissue at different depths in a painless manner, which can also be combined with one or more of the above-mentioned additional care. When the care head is combined with one or more additional cares of fluid application, microcurrent care and / or LED light therapy, the effectiveness and practicality of the care device are greatly increased, wherein one or more of these cares can be performed simultaneously, thereby significantly reducing the care time.

[0277] It is expected that users will quickly become proficient in using the care device to apply different care heads to different parts of the face and neck. During product trials, users quickly became proficient in operating the handle of the drive unit to adjust the intensity of the treatment. This operation is very similar to how a user operates the handle of an electric toothbrush to ensure that the brush head can contact all teeth from different angles. Product trials have shown that users can easily adjust the intensity of the treatment by changing the vertical, horizontal, and lateral angles of the care head relative to the skin surface. The intensity of the treatment is strongest when the care head and its lateral arms are parallel to the skin surface, and decreases as the angle changes. Pulling the handle of the drive unit away from the skin surface also reduces the intensity. This feature is very useful, allowing users to adjust the intensity of the treatment to accommodate the different sensitivities of different areas of the face and neck.

[0278] Although the utility model has been described by the description of the embodiment of the utility model, and the embodiment has been described in detail, the applicant does not intend to limit the scope of the utility model or limit it in any way to such details. For those skilled in the art, additional advantages and modifications will be obvious. Therefore, the utility model in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative devices and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Therefore, without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's overall inventive concept, these details can be deviated from.

Claims

1. A treatment head having a central body configured to receive a drive shaft of a drive unit and one or more flexible lateral extensions extending from the central body, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions are configured to produce a whipping action at an end of each flexible lateral extension when the massage head is driven by the drive unit.

2. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions taper toward a distal edge thereof.

3. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions have a flat contact surface.

4. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions have a convex contact surface.

5. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The treatment head has a generally heart-shaped shape.

6. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions of the treatment head may have a generally finger-like shape.

7. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The treatment head has an asymmetrical shape.

8. The care head according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions extend from 15 to 50 mm from the centre of rotation of the treatment head.

9. The care head according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: An intermediate section is included that is configured to store and release torsional energy generated between the one or more flexible lateral extensions and a coupling that is configured to engage the drive unit.

10. The care head according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from a superelastic material.

11. The care head according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from a soft resilient material.

12. The care head according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from a silicone material or a reactive silicone material.

13. The care head according to claim 12, characterized in that: The silicone material or the reactive silicone material has a Shore A hardness between 10 and 30.

14. The care head according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The one or more flexible lateral extensions are formed from a thermoplastic polyurethane material.

15. The care head according to claim 14, characterized in that: The material has a Shore A hardness between 30 and 90.

16. The care head according to claim 14, characterized in that: The material has a stiffness, ie a modulus, measured by ASTM D790, between 27 MPa and 512 MPa.

17. The care head according to claim 14, characterized in that: The material has a stiffness, ie a modulus, measured by ASTM D412, between 5 MPa and 20 MPa.

18. The care head according to claim 14, characterized in that: The material has an energy absorption capacity tan Δ measured by the DMTA trace in ASTM D 4065 between 0.2 and 0.

5.

19. The care head according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The treatment heads are formed from different materials having different properties.

20. The treatment head according to claim 19, characterized in that: The outer layer of material is overmolded over the inner layer of material.

21. The care head according to claim 20, characterized in that: The outer layer is formed of a softer material than the inner layer.

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