PRESSURE WAVE DEVICE WITH DOUBLE VALVE DEVICE

Description

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

[0002] Devices of this type have been known for some time and are increasingly being used. Mechanical pressure waves are used to treat patients (whether human or animal). These waves are coupled 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 a single piece, but can also be composed of several different parts or materials.

[0003] A proven and widely described technique for accelerating the projectile is pneumatic. This technique involves applying pneumatic overpressure to a volume on one side of the projectile as it moves along a path, e.g., in a tube.

[0004] In the prior art, a switching valve is used for this purpose. This valve is connected to a pneumatic supply, in particular a compressor with adjustable output pressure. Its pulse accelerates the projectile from an end of the travel path distal to the applicator toward the applicator. The pneumatic actuation is deactivated when the proximal end of the travel path is reached, i.e., when the projectile impacts the applicator.

[0005] In the state of the art, the return movement is carried out with the help of a counter-pressure chamber, i.e. a storage volume into which the projectile moving towards the applicator displaces the air in front of it, thus essentially inflating this storage volume.

[0006] In the previously published EP 2 181 730 B1, which was revoked in the opposition appeal proceedings due to lack of feasibility, a targeted pressure limitation in this counterpressure chamber is discussed in addition to a control of the opening time of the switching valve for acceleration, which is not further specified. This document also mentions the use of a second switching valve for returning the projectile to its distal starting position after being acted upon by the first switching valve.

[0007] US 2014 / 350438 A1 describes a ballistic pressure wave device according to the preamble of claim 1, which is designed to generate particularly intense waves for crushing body concretions. Among other things, a pneumatic solution with a second valve is proposed for projectile redirection.

[0008] US 2009 / 326425 A1 describes a ballistic pressure wave device whose pneumatic system is designed to cause at least two collisions as a result of an acceleration process of the projectile.

[0009] DE 20 2010 009 899 U1 describes an electromagnetic pressure wave device that proposes a second electromagnet to return the projectile and prevent damage to a return spring.

[0010] The object of the present invention is to provide, on this basis, a device of the type described with a pneumatic device for projectile movement which is improved with regard to the forward and backward movement of the projectile.

[0011] To achieve this object, the device according to claim 1 is proposed. Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0012] Accordingly, the device according to the invention has, as part of its pneumatic device, a double valve device for pressurizing the projectile in both directions, i.e., toward the applicator and vice versa, away from it in the return direction, i.e., e.g., the combination of a first and a second valve. This typically occurs multiple times and iteratively in a sequence. The time phases in which the projectile is pneumatically pressurized so that it moves in the direction, i.e., e.g., the activation phase of a first valve, are referred to below as the first activation time, and conversely, a time phase of reversed actuation of the projectile is referred to as the second activation time. According to the invention, the device should be designed (i.e., in particular, a control device present therein should be designed) so that a second activation time only begins after the first activation time has ended and a delay time has elapsed.There is therefore a time difference between the two valve opening times that is different from zero.

[0013] The same applies (alternatively or additionally) in reverse order, namely with regard to a time interval after the end of a second switch-on period and before the start of a first switch-on period.

[0014] For example, the first activation time can end well before the projectile impacts the applicator, and the second activation time can begin, for example, immediately after impact. In this case, not the entire available time between the projectile's start of movement and its impact with the applicator is used for acceleration under the applied accelerating pressure, but only a first portion of it. For example, this could reduce the projectile's impact velocity without having to reduce the accelerating pneumatic pressure. For example, it may be desirable to leave this at a higher value than currently required for acceleration in execution for the fastest possible return (using the second activation time).

[0015] Consequently, the impact speed can be controlled by the controller in this way, even independently of a pressure change (e.g. at constant pressure).

[0016] It may be advantageous to be able to reduce the projectile's impact velocity during collision without reducing the pneumatic pressure. For example, a particularly rapid return of the projectile (due to the second valve opening time) and thus a relatively high operating frequency may be desired, while at the same time, excessively high intensities (i.e., impact velocities) are not intended for therapeutic reasons or due to the patient's sensitivity to pain. Alternatively, it may be desirable to work with a higher impact velocity shortly before or after the collision, or to avoid reducing the pressure for other reasons.

[0017] Furthermore, the separation time can also occur entirely or partially after the collision. In this case, a delayed onset of the second activation time after the collision can prevent, for example, an excessively rapid return movement or an excessively rapid speed at the end of the return movement without having to reduce the accelerating pressure (for execution). In this context, it should also be considered that, according to the laws of conservation of momentum, the collision itself already causes a certain acceleration of the projectile in the return direction.

[0018] Of course, both aspects can be combined, namely part of the distance time before and another part of the distance time after the collision.

[0019] So far, the examples have considered the interval time after a first valve opening time (adjacent to the interval time) and before a subsequent second valve opening time. However, the interval time between a preceding (adjacent) second and a subsequent first valve opening time can also be varied. For example, such an interval time can be relevant due to a delayed (and varied with respect to the delay) onset of the first valve opening time during acceleration in execution. The projectile's motion could therefore initially begin exclusively through a "reflection" at the distal end of the movement path, i.e., through residual momentum of the projectile after a collision with a piece of equipment there. With this residual momentum, the projectile can then already move in execution, but is further accelerated when the first valve opening time begins.The movement part (in direction) without pneumatic acceleration by the first valve can therefore also be at the beginning of the movement path in direction (and of course the first valve opening time can end before the collision with the applicator).

[0020] Another example concerns such a separation time, or a portion of such a separation time, at the end of the return movement and before reaching the distal end of the movement path. Here, too, a variation in the separation time can have an (indirect) influence on the velocity of the projectile during the subsequent collision with the applicator, namely because the aforementioned "reflection" at the distal end can lead to a different residual momentum at the beginning of the forward movement, depending on the projectile's velocity upon reaching this end.

[0021] Another example concerns a variation of both spacing times, e.g., complementary to each other. In the simplest case, with constant valve opening times and a given repetition frequency, one of the two spacing times can be extended at the expense of the other.

[0022] To avoid misunderstandings, it should be clarified that the term "valve opening time" used here generally includes both the temporal duration and the position relative to temporal reference points, in particular relative to the respective other valve opening time. The term therefore includes the beginning and end of the valve opening time, as well as the interval between them, unless the following explicitly refers only to the duration or only to a starting or ending time.

[0023] The combination of two switching valves was discussed above, which represents one possibility for a double valve device provided according to the invention. In this variant, the two valves can be controlled (preferably independently of each other) by the control device. Alternatively, a single valve can be used, referred to here as a "combination valve," which, depending on the control by the control device, has at least two switching states: a first for actuating the projectile in the direction toward the applicator and a second for actuating it in the reverse direction. While the combination valve is in the first switching state, a first valve opening time is provided, and in the second switching state, a corresponding second valve opening time.

[0024] In these two switching states, the pneumatic connection to be actuated in the other switching state is preferably ventilated by the combination valve, so that, for example, during the forward movement on the side of the projectile proximal to the applicator, approximately ambient pressure prevails and, in contrast to the conventional procedure with a counterpressure chamber, there is no dynamic pressure that increases from collision to collision.

[0025] Even when using two separate valves, at least one of the two valves is preferably a "two-way valve," which accordingly performs ventilation unless it is switched to apply pneumatic pressure. However, other switching states are not excluded, and the valve is not necessarily limited to exactly two switching states.

[0026] By the way, venting refers to a pneumatically conductive connection to the outside atmosphere or a reference pressure volume that essentially corresponds to it. It is therefore not a deliberate delay in the release of gas and excess pressure in the sense of throttling.

[0027] As an alternative to venting via the combination valve or the two-way valves just mentioned, the device could also have a certain degree of pneumatic leakage and, in the absence of pneumatic pressure, perform a throttled venting process in a kind of creeping fashion. However, this option is less preferred.

[0028] Preferably, the first activation time is variable in length for at least two control states with different interval times, e.g., for a fixed portion of the interval time after the collision with the applicator (including zero). In the simplest case, there are only two control states, but preferably more. Of course, a zero interval time can also exist in one control state, provided there is at least one other with a non-zero interval time.

[0029] Of course, the second activation time can also be of variable length, but, for example, in the case just described of a fixed portion of the distance time after the collision with the applicator, it can also be constant, preferably with regard to duration and / or beginning and end with respect to the reference.

[0030] As already mentioned at the beginning, devices of the type considered here typically perform a multitude of acceleration, collision, and retraction processes of the projectile. In the prior art, the corresponding repetition frequency of such periodic operation can be regularly adjusted. In the present case, iterative (not necessarily periodic) operation and a corresponding device design are also preferred, whereby the corresponding sequence does not necessarily have to begin with a movement in the execution.

[0031] For example, such a sequence can begin with a first pneumatic pressure pulse to move the projectile back to its distal position relative to the applicator, in order to establish defined initial conditions. Magnets at this distal end of the projectile's travel path are known in the prior art to fix the projectile. However, a projectile could become dislodged from this fixation as a result of impacts, and such fixation could, of course, also be dispensed with.

[0032] Furthermore, the explanations do not necessarily refer to every single movement during such a sequence. As explained in more detail below, the operating conditions can also change during a sequence, so that the described interval time may not even exist for some of the movements in the sequence.

[0033] Details of the present invention were explained above with regard to a gap time between the first and the second switch-on time. According to a further preferred embodiment, the device and in particular the control device can be designed such that in certain further control states no such gap time exists but instead an overlap time exists between the first and the second switch-on time or vice versa (which is different from zero and thus the case of a gap time of zero). With such an overlap time in certain control states (in existing other control states with a gap time), an additional degree of freedom results. For example, this can be used to control the impact speed of the projectile when it impacts the applicator by changing the overlap time.If, in this example, the second valve opening period begins at a point in time before the collision, while the first valve opening period is still open, the projectile is subjected to a counterforce in addition to the pneumatic force accelerating it in its forward direction. In the simplest case, if approximately the same pneumatic pressure is applied, this counterforce can be approximately the same magnitude and virtually neutralize the acceleration. Depending on the size of the portion of the first valve opening period before this point in time, the projectile is accelerated to a greater or lower speed, which it then approximately maintains during the overlap period.

[0034] The opposite is true: If the overlap time arises because, for example, the second valve opening time is not only used until the projectile has completely returned to its starting position, but also continues for some time beyond that, but the first activation time already begins during the second activation time, then (in the simplest case) no significant force acts on the projectile during this overlap time. Thus, there can be a phase without pneumatic forward acceleration of the projectile (possibly already during the return movement and) after the return movement has ended, because this only begins after the end of the overlap time.

[0035] One advantage may be that the impact velocity of the projectile can be controlled more precisely and / or more easily than in the conventional comparison case, in which the opening time of the (single) switching valve and, of course, the effective pressure were important. Real switching valves have finitely long opening and closing times, i.e., they do not open and close instantaneously. This is especially true when comparing the closing time and the opening time, for example, with spring-loaded valves (preferred here), where the opening process is magnetically and optionally pneumatically assisted using the pressure to be switched, whereas the closing process is achieved by a spring that is tensioned during opening. Experience has shown that there can be design-related and aging-related deviations, as well as different aging behavior between the opening and closing times (here, opening time in the sense of the opening process).

[0036] In the first case above of an overlap time at the end of a first valve opening time and at the beginning of a second valve opening time, the period relevant for the projectile acceleration, namely the portion of the first valve opening time before this overlap time, is determined by the time difference between two valve opening processes (first of the first and then of the second valve). In the second case above, the overlap time is at the end of the second valve opening time. Here, the pneumatic projectile acceleration towards the applicator only becomes significant at the end of the overlap time, so that it is the remaining portion of this first valve opening time after the overlap time and thus the difference between two valve closing processes (first of the second and then of the first valve) that is relevant. In both cases, this is the time difference between similar valve movements.

[0037] The inventors have found that in this way, age-related deviations in particular are significantly less noticeable (for example, when the closing time shows stronger ageing influences than the opening time), because these influences are at least partially compensated by the described difference formation.

[0038] In the cited prior art document, however (despite the brevity of the relevant description here), it is assumed that the two valves mentioned operate alternately, which also fits with the particularly high intensities of the projectile-applicator collisions and thus pressure waves aimed for in this document.

[0039] Another (alternative or additional) aspect may be to work with a relatively high pneumatic pressure to achieve rapid return and thus a high operating frequency, while not necessarily requiring the use of high impact speeds corresponding to this high pressure (if such acceleration pressure is present throughout the entire forward movement). High intensities are not always desirable for therapeutic reasons and, moreover, are regularly associated with increased patient stress due to pain or other irritation.

[0040] In the first case described above, namely an overlap time at the end of a first activation time, the second activation time and thus the overlap time begin during an outward movement of the projectile, so there is a final phase of this outward movement in which pressure is applied to both sides of the projectile. This gives rise to the possibilities already explained. However, this feature is not mandatory, because pressure can also be applied to both sides (only) after impact, i.e. during or at the beginning of the return movement of the projectile. For example, the supply pressure desired for the return movement due to the acceleration of the projectile can be somewhat generous, perhaps because it is undesirable for the projectile to impact distal to the applicator with a similar force to that on the applicator. In this sense, for example,A simultaneity of the first and second valve opening times at the beginning of the return movement can have a certain throttling effect on the return movement.

[0041] In the second case described above, namely an overlap time at the end of a second activation time, a similar effect to that just described can be achieved with a portion of the overlap time still during the return movement. A similar situation also applies to such simultaneity towards the end of the return movement, i.e., before the next acceleration process. In particular, the overlap time can occur partly before and partly after the projectile impacts the applicator, or partly before and partly after reaching the point furthest from the applicator, as will be explained in more detail in connection with the exemplary embodiment.

[0042] Furthermore, in the first case of the overlap time at the end of the first activation time, it is preferable to end the first activation time during the second activation time and thus to allow the second activation time to typically last beyond the first activation time. This naturally applies in particular to the described return of the projectile. However, this feature is not mandatory. For example, the described compensation of the accelerating force by a simultaneity of the first and second activation times (i.e., applying pneumatic pressure to the projectile on both sides) can also be achieved entirely within a first activation time by means of a comparatively short second activation time. The projectile can then be returned, for example, in a manner already known from the prior art. In principle, even a further second activation time (which is separate from the second activation time during the first) could be used for the return.

[0043] Analogously, in the second case of an overlap time at the end of the second switch-on time, it is also preferred to let the second switch-on time end during the (next) first switch-on time, in particular in order to thereby effect the pneumatic acceleration process of the projectile in the direction of the applicator already described.

[0044] Preferably, one of the two switch-on times can be of constant length when comparing two control states with different overlap times (in this case, including zero). In the case of an overlap time at the end of the first switch-on time, this preferably applies to this first switch-on time, and in the other case, accordingly to the second switch-on time. This means that in these cases, the differences in the overlap time result from different lengths of the other valve opening time that overlaps it, or from the temporal relationships between the two valve opening times. Preferably, the other valve opening time between two such control states with different overlap times is variable in duration (whereby, for example, it could have the same starting time for all or some of the control states, measured from the start of the earlier switch-on time).

[0045] Preferably, the portion of the overlap time before the projectile impacts, i.e., during the projectile's forward movement from a distal location (relative to the applicator) to the applicator, is significantly greater than the portion or period of time allocated to the return movement. This preferably applies to all control states with an overlap time. If the aspect of a certain inhibition of the force of a return movement is not important, it may also be preferable for the overlap time to exist exclusively during the forward movement.

[0046] In the simplest case, the pneumatic device can have a connection for supply from a pneumatic line network, e.g., in a hospital, or from a compressed gas cylinder. However, a pneumatic compressor is preferred, which makes the device according to the invention location-independent and more mobile than a compressed gas cylinder. Pneumatic compressors are already known in connection with such devices. However, the invention offers the special aspect of not necessarily having to change the supply pressure in different control states with different projectile impact velocities. In other words, the compressor can run at the same speed in such different control states.

[0047] Of course, this can simplify compressor control, especially if it always runs at the same speed when switched on. Furthermore, the compressor can be operated near or at its maximum efficiency (in terms of speed). Furthermore, it is possible to adapt noise reduction measures, such as a dampening compressor mount or a sound-insulating enclosure, to the vibration behavior of the compressor at a constant speed.

[0048] A special design possibility of the invention lies in the ability to directly and quickly influence the impact physics between the projectile and the applicator—namely, the impact velocity and thus the momentum upon impact—simply by changing the valve opening times or durations. Compared to changing the supply pressure, this influence is particularly rapid, so that in an iterative operating state, the impact velocity / momentum of the combined forward and backward movement can, in principle, be changed from one impact process to the next. The state of the art does not allow for such rapid and free influence.

[0049] Typical impact velocities, even under less rapidly changing or unchanging conditions, are in the range of 2 m / s to 30 m / s. For impact physics, the impact impulse is particularly important, which for typical projectile masses between 1 g and 10 g, preferably between 2 g and 5 g, can thus be in a range of 2 gm / s to 300 gm / s. A range between 10 gm / s and 150 gm / s is preferred.

[0050] In a special embodiment, the device has a measuring device that can measure the passage of the projectile at a point along its travel path. This measuring device can be coupled to the control device. This allows, for example, the passage of the projectile shortly before impact or virtually as it hits the applicator to be recorded, so that the activation times (particularly with regard to their start and end) can be adjusted accordingly to the final time of impact.

[0051] Such detection can be achieved optically, for example, using a light barrier or the like, but preferably inductively using at least one measuring coil. This can detect the projectile using residual magnetism or purely inductively (by changing the stray inductance).

[0052] In the following, the invention is explained in more detail using exemplary embodiments, whereby the individual features can also be essential to the invention in other combinations within the scope of the claims.

[0053] In detail, Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a device according to the invention, with a central housing part omitted for clarity; Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section through the device from Figure 1 opposite Figure 1 right-left reversed position; Figure 3 a schematic diagram of the handpiece with an associated base unit; Figure 4 a sequence of schematic time course diagrams 4a) to f) to explain the mode of operation; Figure 5 a schematic representation of a combination valve to explain an alternative embodiment to the Figures 1 and 2 ; Figure 6 a sequence of schematic time course diagrams 6a) to e) to explain further control states in addition to Figure 4 ; Figure 7 shows a further schematic diagram to explain the periodic operation; Figure 8 shows a recurring sequence of two different projectile speed levels in direct succession, with a high speed pulse being followed directly by two low speed pulses; Figure 9 shows a control sequence for the activation of the valves V1 and V2 according to the Figure 8 shown sequence of two different projectile speed levels; Figure 10 a higher temporal detail of the first 300 ms from the control sequence of Figure 9 .

[0054] Figure 1shows a handpiece of a device according to the invention in perspective view with pneumatic valves pointing forward-left, namely a first valve 1 and a second valve 2. On the right you can see a pneumatic supply connection 3 and on the left two screw rings 4 and 5, each knurled on the outside for easier handling, for holding the applicator 6, which is explained in more detail below. This is in Figure 1 on the far left with its patient-facing surface just visible and otherwise in Figure 2 shown. It could also be constructed in several parts.

[0055] In the middle area of ​​the device Figure 1one can see a plurality of tubes running in the transverse direction, the middle one with the reference number 7 containing and guiding the projectile 8, which can be seen in section in Figure 2. In front of this, one can see two parallel pneumatic connecting pipes 9 and 10 between the two valves 1 and 2, wherein the pipe 9 serves to supply a pressurization to the second valve 2 and the pipe 10 conversely serves to vent this second valve 2 via an outlet provided at the first valve 1. This plurality of pipes is in this embodiment of a Figure 1 surrounded by the casing cover 11 shown by the line below the tube 10 and the two lines above the projectile guide tube 7. This casing cover 11 runs in Figure 1 in the rear area and covers only a part of the circumference. It is designed at its respective axial edges, similar to a beading, by a rounded inward fold, which is easy to grip. Figure 1indicated at the upper edge. The housing cover 11 can therefore serve as a handle during practical handling. The spacer 13 stabilizes the structure and mechanically connects the two ends of the handpiece.

[0056] A flexible compressed air supply line leading from a pneumatic compressor to the device (see 51 in Figure 3 ) is not shown here and is to be connected to the already mentioned connection 3. Analogously, an electronic control line (52 in Figure 3 ) from an external control to valves 1 and 2 is not shown, which can be designed in the same way as the compressed air supply line.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a longitudinal section along an imaginary central longitudinal axis of the aforementioned cylindrical shape of the entire device, which is also a central longitudinal axis of the projectile guide tube 7. In this projectile guide tube, the projectile 8 is in Figure 2shown on the right and thus in contact with the applicator 6, which is held by the described screw ring 4 and 5 in a manner known per se. The applicator 6 is elastically mounted in the axial direction by a bellows-like elastomer ring 14 and pneumatically sealed by a further elastomer ring 12. Alternatively, a device structure with regard to the applicator 6 and its holder and seal according to, for example, EP 2 529 679 (also independent of the cap shown there) or EP 2 095 843 (also independent of the ceramic material discussed there) is also possible and preferred.

[0058] Figure 2shows on the left an inner channel 21, which connects the pneumatic connection 3 to the first valve 1. The first valve 1 can therefore switch a supply pressure present at the pneumatic connection 3, depending on the control, to a radial channel 22, which opens below a damper element 23 and is thus connected to the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7. The projectile is thus acted upon or accelerated towards the applicator 6 via this channel 22 during an initial activation time. Independently of this, the pneumatic supply pressure is passed on to the second valve 2 via the channel 24 and the tube 10.

[0059] In the second alternative switching position, the channel 22 and thus also the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 are divided between the distal end (in Figure 2 left) and the projectile 8 ventilated.

[0060] In the second valve 2, which is basically constructed mirror-symmetrically to the first valve 1, the pneumatic supply pressure applied via the tube 10 can alternatively be passed radially upwards via the channel 25 to a volume surrounding the projectile guide tube 7 (in Figure 2 as a slot above and below the tube 7), which leads from the connection of the channel 25 to the right, i.e. in the direction of the applicator 6, and there is connected between the applicator 6 and the proximal end of the projectile guide tube 7 to the inner volume of the projectile guide tube 7 (from the Figure 2The pneumatic supply pressure can thus be switchably applied to the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 between the applicator 6 and the projectile 8 via the channel 25. However, in this example, the pneumatic connection is somewhat poorer than on the opposite side of the projectile guide tube 7 due to a smaller effective opening cross-section, so that delays become noticeable sooner or more severely here at higher air flow velocities (higher frequencies, higher pressures).

[0061] Alternatively, the second valve 2 in the other switching position can block the connection of the internal volume of the tube 10 to it and ventilate the channel 25 and thus the internal volume of the projectile guide tube 7 to the right of the projectile 8, i.e. connect it to the outside atmosphere via a pneumatically highly conductive connection.

[0062] The two valves 1 and 2 can therefore apply pneumatic pressure to the projectile from both sides, independently of each other and thus simultaneously or alternately, or can ventilate the interior of the projectile guide tube 7 on both sides.

[0063] The reference number 30 in Figure 2denotes a ring-shaped permanent magnet at the distal end of the movement path of the projectile 8 (coinciding with the length of the projectile guide tube 7) relative to the applicator 6. With this magnet 30, the projectile 8, constructed of ferromagnetic material, can be easily fixed at this distal end of the movement path. By applying pressure to one side using the valve 2, the projectile can also be returned to this position and optionally also held there, particularly at the start of operation or in the case of a non-ferromagnetic projectile. In this respect, the permanent magnet 30 can optionally be omitted, especially if the reflections explained below are to be enabled at this distal end of the movement path even at low impact velocities of the projectile 8.

[0064] 31 denotes a point at which the passage of projectile 8 through the corresponding point of the travel path could be detected using a measuring coil, with this point being relatively close to applicator 6. In the simplest case, a slight residual magnetism of projectile 8 is utilized here, but one could of course also detect and evaluate the change in the inductance of coil 31 using alternating current. The collision of projectile 8 with applicator 6 can also be determined using a microphone or motion sensor in the experimental setup. Furthermore, the impact velocity of projectile 8 can be determined in the experimental setup, for example, using two light barriers positioned just in front of applicator 6.

[0065] Figure 3 shows a block diagram with the Figures 1 and 2The device shown in the top right-hand corner is designated summarily by the reference numeral 40. This device 40 is a hand-held, mobile handpiece, as is already known from relevant devices in the prior art. It is connected via two lines 51 and 52 to a base station 50, which contains a pneumatic compressor 53 and a controller 54. The compressor 53 is connected to the handset 40 via line 51, namely a pneumatic flexible hose line, and the controller 54 is connected via the electrical line 52 (optionally integrated with the line 51), via which the controller can access the two valves 1 and 2 mentioned above and supply them with power. Communication with the handpiece 40 can also take place via line 52, in particular if a controller or part of the controller is additionally provided there.

[0066] The controller 54 also controls the compressor 53 with regard to its speed and, of course, its switching on and off. Like the compressor 53, it is powered by a power supply 55. A pressure control or control valve that influences the speed can also be integrated into the compressor 53. Furthermore, the controller 54 is connected to a display 56, which can be built into the base unit 50 or implemented separately. The base unit 50 is operated via a touch-sensitive screen 56 and / or via a button arrangement not shown here.

[0067] The user can thus control the function of the device 40 using such buttons and, in any case, using the display 56, with the control 54 specifying, in particular, the opening and closing times and thus also the opening durations of the two valves 1 and 2. Partial tasks of the control 54 can also be integrated into the handpiece 40, particularly with regard to the control of valves 1 and 2.

[0068] For a basic understanding of the control of the two valves, reference can be made to the older patent EP 2 213 273 B1. The embodiment therein largely corresponds to the above explanations and the Figures 1 and 2with the exception of the existence of the second valve 2 and the omission of the counterpressure chamber. Furthermore, the cited embodiment assumes a specific valve opening time of the sole valve at a specific pressure, whereas the projectile acceleration in the present case varies due to the proportion of the first valve opening time, even outside the overlap time and thus even at a constant pressure. For the following explanations, a pressure of 2 bar and a repetition frequency of 10 Hz can be assumed as an example. This results in the following table with measured values: Projectile speed [m / s] 4.7 6.2 8.1 9.5 10.3 10.8 Opening time of valve 1 [ms] 0 0 0 0 0 0 Closing time of valve 1 [ms] 13 13 13 13 13 13 Opening time of valve 2 [ms] 13 14 15 16 17 18 Closing time of valve 2 [ms] 21 22 23 24 25 26 Time of impact [ms] 25.0 24.6 24.2 23.9 23.8 23.7

[0069] Figure 4shows schematic time course diagrams in the individual illustrations a) to f) that correspond to the table above. There are different intervals between the activation of valve 1, represented in the solid line below, from the Figures 1 and 2 and the activation of valve 2, shown in the dashed line above. There is generally a switch-on pulse for valve 1, which accelerates the projectile 8. After the end of this initial switch-on time, it "flies on" for a varying portion of its travel distance without further pneumatic pressure. During this movement phase, both sides of the barrel interior are ventilated (and not pressurized). Figure 4a ) this only applies after the second switch-on time.

[0070] After a certain period of deceleration by the second valve, a collision with the applicator 6 occurs, as shown, followed by the return movement of the projectile 8 due to this collision and the returning pneumatic pulse resulting from (the remainder of) the second activation time. This moves the projectile 8 back to its original position.

[0071] The length of the first on-time is left unchanged. In this example, at least part of the second on-time occurs before the collision, namely the entire second on-time or the majority of it in cases a) to e), and approximately half in case f).

[0072] These images illustrate another way of controlling the speed of the projectile 8 during collision. Figure 4a), the projectile 8 is pneumatically accelerated throughout the first activation time, only to be decelerated by an opposing pneumatic pressure upon the start of the second activation time (dashed line above). Since in case a) the deceleration time is in a ratio of 8:13 to the acceleration time and the same pressure level can be assumed, the projectile 8 impacts the applicator 6 at a minimal speed and, after impacting the applicator 6, is moved back to the starting point due to the elastic impact.

[0073] In cases b) to f), the interval between the two activation times is longer and thus the proportion of the second activation time before the collision is gradually smaller, which leads to an increasing projectile speed at the collision despite the first activation time remaining unchanged.

[0074] Strictly speaking, the Figures 4a) to f) show the electrical control times of both valves 1 and 2, i.e., the output signals of control unit 54. Valves 1 and 2 are spring-loaded solenoid valves that open purely magnetically and close under the force of the tensioned spring when the magnet is no longer acted upon. Accordingly, the movements of the valve body are slightly delayed compared to the control signals shown, by an estimated 4 ms when opening and 2 ms when closing.

[0075] With a so-called pilot valve with pneumatic support during opening, the situation would be qualitatively comparable.

[0076] Of course, in another embodiment with a "combination valve" one can create very similar conditions as in Figure 4 shown in diagrams a) to f). Such a combination valve is Figure 5shown schematically. The letter K denotes the combination valve, which accordingly controls the two valves 1 and 2 from the Figures 1 and 2 Two lines V1 and V2 are shown on the right and left, of which V1 has a connection to the left side (according to Figure 2 ) of the projectile guide tube 7, e.g., via the channel section 22 (analogous to the first valve 1). Accordingly, the right line V2 means a connection to the right side of the projectile guide tube 7 (analogous to the second valve 2), e.g., via the channel section 25.

[0077] The upper line is in Figure 5 with the keyword "pressure supply" and the symbol "1" (not to be confused with the reference symbol 1) for the first valve; similarly, the lower line connection is labeled with the keyword "ambient pressure" and the symbol "0" within the figure, thus indicating a ventilation opening.

[0078] In the combination valve K there is a symbolically represented slide S, which moves in the vertical direction (relative to Figure 5 ) can be moved between four different switching positions. The top one shows how the Figure 5 As shown, port V1 is pressurized and port V2 is pressurized with the pneumatic supply pressure. In the third position from the top, the situation is reversed. In the currently activated second position from the top, both ports V1 and V2 are pressurized. Finally, the lowest position shows simultaneous pressurization of both ports V1 and V2, see below.

[0079] One could therefore imagine a combination valve K constructed in this or a similar way instead of the two individual valves 1 and 2 from the exemplary embodiment in the Figures 1 and 2 present, whereby the remaining explanations and in particular the Figures 3 and 4 apply mutatis mutandis to this as well.

[0080] Because 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 ) at a given fixed operating frequency, where it has maximum efficiency. Furthermore, the pneumatic compressor can be particularly effectively insulated against vibration and noise at a given operating frequency.

[0081] In principle, the control device 54 can vary the impact velocity and also the time interval between collisions between the projectile 8 and the applicator 6 from one individual event to the next. It can therefore influence the impact physics significantly faster and more variably and, in particular, is not tied to periodic events.

[0082] Figure 6shows a sequence of five individual schematic time-course diagrams (6a) to 6e), in which the curve labeled T1 represents the opening and closing process of the first valve 1, and the curve labeled T2 represents the opening and closing process of the second valve T2. The raised part of the curve thus corresponds to the first / second switching time.

[0083] In comparison, it can be seen that the first switch-on time for all five control states on the (arbitrary) time axis in the horizontal direction starts at 0 ms and ends at 13 ms. In contrast, the second switch-on time shifts with respect to its start from approximately 2.5 ms in Figure 6a ) gradually up to about 7 ms in Figure 6e ), whereas the second switch-on time ends at approximately 18 ms in all five representations. Accordingly, there is an overlap time in all control states, namely from 3 ms to 13 ms in Figure 6a) up to 7 ms to 13 ms in Figure 6e ), whereby this overlap time decreases gradually, corresponding to the increasingly delayed start of the second activation time. In all five control states, the pneumatic actuation by the second valve 2 is active with regard to the return of the projectile 8.

[0084] In the Figure 6In the cases shown, at a pressure of 4 bar, impact velocities of the projectile 8 on the applicator 6 of (in this order from a) to e)) 10 m / s, 12 m / s, 14 m / s, 16 m / s, and 18 m / s are realized. This corresponds to pulses of 30 gm / s to 54 gm / s for a projectile mass of 3 g. The switch-on time of valve 1 is constant at 13.0 ms. The closing time of the second valve also remains constant at 18 ms. The switch-on time of the second valve changes (again in the sequence from a) to e)) from 15.4 ms to 15.0 ms, 14.3 ms, 13.0 ms to 10.9 ms, resulting in overlap times of 10.4 ms, 10.0 ms, 9.3 ms, 8.0 ms, and finally 5.9 ms. Accordingly, the switch-on time of the second valve 2 begins with a delay of between 2.6 ms and 7.1 ms compared to the first switch-on time (increasing from top to bottom).

[0085] In Figure 6a ) (of course when the projectile movement starts at the left end of the movement path in Figure 2at 0 ms), the collision with the applicator occurs after the overlap time and also after the end of the second switch-on time, i.e. at approximately 18 ms to 20 ms, whereby this collision time shifts further and further to the left in the following figures and from Figure 6c ) is within the second activation time. The projectile velocities measured (optically in a test setup) are between 10 m / s in Figure 6a ) and 18 m / s in Figure 6e ) and are thus in a ratio of 1:1.8.

[0086] One can imagine, in simplified terms, that the projectile is accelerated linearly over time before the second activation time and then continues to move at approximately the reached speed (neglecting pneumatic flow effects and projectile friction); in reality, the projectile speed will probably increase somewhat less than linearly over time and, in an approximately force-free state, will decrease slightly due to friction during the overlap time. After the overlap time, projectile 8 is decelerated in all individual representations by the pending pneumatic application by the second valve, whereby in cases 6a) and 6b) after the end of the second activation time, the projectile again travels a short distance almost force-free until the collision in the above sense.

[0087] Especially in Figure 6a) it is noticeable that the remainder of the second activation time after the overlap time is significantly longer than the (initial) remainder of the first activation time before the overlap time. This may be surprising, because the same supply pressure is applied to both valves and, according to the real values ​​from the table above, a collision in Figure 6a ) with a speed of 10 m / s. One reason may be that the second valve 2 is Figure 2 in the area of ​​the right end of the projectile guide tube 7 is pneumatically connected to the interior of this tube 7 much less efficiently than the first valve 1 at the left end. This is due to the fact that at the right end, as shown in Figure 2It can be seen that projectile 8 is prevented from flying out to the right by a cross-sectional constriction (catching device). This is for safety reasons if a device without an applicator installed were accidentally activated. Therefore, the corresponding tube end apparently fills more slowly when the second valve 2 opens, and thus, from a dynamic perspective, there is a greater delay between the valve switching operations and the actual application of force due to the pneumatic application by the second valve.

[0088] Furthermore, the figures show that only in illustrations 6d) and 6e) does a portion of the second activation time occur after the collision. This is not a problem, because the projectile is repelled by the collision itself in the sense of the impact between a typically lower-mass projectile and a higher-mass applicator in the sense of momentum conservation. The remainder of the second activation time after the end of the first activation time in Figures 6d ) and e) only additionally ensures the return movement to the starting position.

[0089] Of course, the timing could be adjusted so that the overlap period ends approximately at the time of the collision. In particular, this could be achieved by determining the time of the collision using the Figure 2The already illustrated possibility of a measuring coil 31 in the vicinity of the applicator 6 could be used. The timing scheme would thus be somewhat more complicated, because the first switch-on time would have to be ended at different times (from Figure 6a ) to Figure 6e ) always earlier). However, the speed of the projectile's return movement could be increased, and thus, at least for the later individual displays, i.e. for the higher projectile velocities, an even higher repetition frequency range could be achieved, by also scheduling the end of the second activation time accordingly differently and earlier with increasing projectile speed.

[0090] Incidentally, electrical control times are also shown here, so that for the reasons described there are actually about 2 ms shorter overlap times.

[0091] Overall, you need a control system (according to Figure 3) to represent the control states according to the partial representations in Figure 4 and further control states according to the partial representations just explained in Figure 6 In both cases, the projectile velocity during collision can be influenced by valve switching times at constant pressure.

[0092] Figure 7 shows approximately a sequence of three processes corresponding to Figure 4f ). The projectile 8 is returned to its initial position by the dashed second activation times, and is then accelerated towards the applicator 6 by the subsequent first activation time. This figure is intended to illustrate only the possible periodicity of control states, which of course also applies analogously to the other partial representations in the Figures 4 and 6Furthermore, one can imagine that the successive processes can have deviations from each other, so that the collision process can be changed quickly and freely from one repetition to the next.

[0093] Figure 8 shows a recurring sequence of pulses with two different projectile velocity ranges (at impact) that are in the Figure 8 are designated by the reference symbols H and L. By varying the overlap and spacing of the opening times, the performance of the control system can be demonstrated here as an example. For each pulse with a projectile velocity approximately in the H range, there are two pulses with a projectile velocity approximately in the L range.

[0094] Figure 9In particular, it demonstrates that the collision conditions can vary significantly from one collision to the next, in this case by approximately a factor of 3 in collision speed. The fluctuations within the ranges H and L are unintentional and tolerance-related scatter (these are real measured values).

[0095] Figure 9 shows an example of the control sequence for the valves V1 and V2 in their temporal sequence to achieve the projectile velocity sequences shown in Figure 8. Different overlaps and spacing of pulses relative to each other can be seen.

[0096] Figure 10 represents the sequence of pulses Figure 9 more precisely in time, so that a repeating sequence can be seen individually. Here, it can be seen that pulses between V1 and V2 change their relative spacing and overlap.

[0097] The above explanations refer to the Figures 1 to 3 They can also be transferred to other devices and dimensions based on simple estimates of the projectile motion. In particular, the reversal points of the projectile motion are easily accessible, for example, via the aforementioned measuring coil, possibly an analog measuring coil at the distal end of the motion path, or by recording the collisions via a microphone. On this basis, meaningful estimates can be made based on the above descriptions.

[0098] Alternatively, you can proceed as follows: You specify a desired operating frequency and a desired supply pressure for the two valves and also specify, for example, that both valves open for a constant duration, e.g. for 25% of the inverse of the specified frequency. You can then set up the control system so that the valves open and close exactly in phase at a starting time. In this state, stable movement will not occur because the projectile is pressurised on both sides at the same time or is not pressurised on either side. On this basis, you can then gradually change the offset between opening times in both directions, i.e. gradually open (and close) the second valve slightly earlier or slightly later than the first valve. From a certain time offset, i.e. from a certain phase shift, the projectile will reach a stable oscillation state, which can be achieved, for example,With the aforementioned microphone detection, the collisions at both ends of the movement path can be determined. Furthermore, the intensity of the collision with the applicator can then be determined, and the described phase shift can be considered as a control parameter for the intensity. In this form, a calibration curve can be determined.

[0099] In addition, for a specific vibration state determined in this way, the phase offset can of course be kept constant and the first and / or second valve opening duration can be changed step by step.

[0100] In individual cases, it may be that insufficient pressure was specified for the desired frequency, meaning that even with "antiphase" control of the two valves, no oscillation state with collisions at the ends of the travel path is created. In this case, either the pressure must be increased slightly or the frequency reduced accordingly.

[0101] Analogously, one can of course also empirically approach suitable operating conditions in other ways. Finally, the motion behavior of the projectile can, of course, be simulated at least approximately mathematically, and empirical experiments can then be conducted based on the results of such simulations.

Claims

1. Apparatus for treatment of the human or animal body with mechanical pressure waves, the apparatus comprising: - a projectile (8) guided in the apparatus along a movement path, - an applicator (6) at one end of the movement path, - pneumatic means for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) for the purpose of movement along the movement path, wherein the projectile (8) is adapted for striking onto the applicator (6) for generating the mechanical pressure waves, which pneumatic means has a double valve means (1, 2) for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction towards the applicator (6) during a first activation time and for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the reverse direction during a second activation time and a control means (54) for controlling the double valve means (1, 2), characterized in that the apparatus is adapted to maintain a separation time between the first activation time and the second activation time or vice versa and to control an impact speed of the projectile (8) upon impact onto the applicator (6) by means of the separation time.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the double valve means (1, 2) has a first valve for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction towards the applicator (6) and a second valve for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the reverse direction, which valves can preferably be controlled independently of one another by the control means (54).

3. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the double valve means (1, 2) has a "combination valve" which, depending on the control by the control means (54), assumes a first switching state for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the direction towards the applicator (6) or a second switching state for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) in the reverse direction, wherein in each of these switching states the pneumatic connection used in the respectively other switching state for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) is ventilated by the combination valve.

4. Apparatus according to claim 2, in which at least one of the two valves is a two-way valve which applies pneumatic pressure to a pneumatic volume between itself and the projectile (8) in a first switching position during the respective activation time for application of pneumatic pressure to the projectile (8) and which ventilates this pneumatic volume in a second switching position.

5. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, in which the first activation time is of variable length in comparison between at least two control states with different separation time.

6. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, adapted, in the case of a part of control states, to end one of the two activation times only after the start of the other of the two activation times and preferably to end the one activation time during the other activation time, so that the first and the second activation time overlap during an overlap time.

7. Apparatus according to claim 6, adapted, in the case of the part of the control states, to control an impact speed of the projectile (8) upon impact onto the applicator (6) by means of a portion of the first activation time outside the overlap time associated therewith.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the earlier one of the two activation times is of constant length in comparison between at least two control states with different periods of overlap between the first and the second activation time.

9. Apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the later one of the two activation times is of variable length in comparison between at least two control states with different periods of overlap.

10. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pneumatic means comprises a pneumatic compressor, wherein the apparatus is adapted to allow the compressor in the activated state to run at different control states with different impact speeds of the projectile (8) at the same rotational frequency, preferably in principle in the activated state to run at always the same rotational frequency.

11. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the projectile (8) can be moved with an impact pulse of between 2 gm / s and 300 gm / s upon impact onto the applicator (6).

12. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, adapted to vary, in an iterative operating state with directly successive forward movements of the projectile (8) for impact onto the applicator (6) and return movements, the impact speed and / or the time duration of the combined forward and return movement from one to the next such combined forward and return movement.

13. Apparatus according to one of the preceding claims, having a measuring means for detecting a passage of the projectile (8) at a point of the movement path, which measuring means is coupled to the control means (54).