DEVICE FOR STIMULATING A HUMAN EROGENE ZONE WITH A VARIABLE PRESSURE FIELD

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for stimulating a human erogenous zone with a variable pressure field, comprising a housing (21) in which a handle section and a stimulation section are formed; a drive unit (32) arranged in the housing (21) and configured to repeatedly provide a drive movement; a pressure chamber (4, 16) arranged in the housing (21) to provide a variable pressure field and at least partially surrounded by a chamber wall; and a movable chamber wall section (1). This section forms a portion of the chamber wall and couples to the drive unit (32) such that, in response to the drive movement coupled thereto, the movable chamber wall section (1) can be repeatedly moved between different wall positions, thereby repeatedly increasing and decreasing the chamber volume of the pressure chamber (4, 16) to generate the variable pressure field.The device further comprises: a housing opening (22) located in the stimulation section and in fluid communication with the pressure chamber (4, 16), such that the variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber (4, 16) can be released via the housing opening (22) in the form of negative and positive pressures; a sealing device associated with the housing opening (22) and located in the area of ​​the stimulation section, configured to seal the pressure chamber (4, 16) from the environment during operation; and a battery device (28) configured to provide drive energy for the drive device (32). In the drive device (32), a coil device, through which an electric current flows during operation, is movably arranged in an associated stationary permanent magnetic field (3) and couples to the movable chamber wall section (1) to transmit the drive movement.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for stimulating a human erogenous zone with a variable pressure field. background

[0002] Document DE 10 2013 110 501 A1 describes a stimulation device with a drive train, an electrochemical energy storage device in the form of an accumulator or battery unit, and a control unit. The drive train consists of a rotating electric motor with an eccentric shaft, a connecting rod, and a piston in at least one chamber of the stimulation device. The control current supplied to the rotating electric motor in the form of direct current varies or controls the speed of the electric motor and thus ultimately the frequency of the piston movement. The stroke of the piston is determined by the defined eccentric travel and therefore cannot be changed during operation.

[0003] Document DE 10 2016 105 019 B3 describes a stimulation device whose drive unit is "simplified in structure" compared to that of document DE 10 2013 110 501 A1 and is intended to generate a "greater variety of different vibrations." The drive train here does not include a rotating electric motor, but rather an electric linear motor with coil elements in the primary part and at least one axially displaceably guided magnetic core arranged parallel to the coil element, consisting of at least two permanent magnets arranged with opposite poles, as the secondary part. The magnetic core is mechanically connected to at least one actuating section of the first chamber wall of the stimulation device. By supplying the coils or the winding of the electric linear motor or the coil elements with the supplied control current, the rotor-side magnetic core is moved axially back and forth.The maximum axial displacement of the magnetic core is determined by the number, structure, arrangement and circuit of the coils. Summary

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a device for stimulating a human erogenous zone with a variable pressure field, which enables a device with improved operating characteristics.

[0005] To achieve this, a device for stimulating a human erogenous zone with a variable pressure field is provided according to independent claim 1. Embodiments are the subject of dependent claims.

[0006] According to one aspect, a device for stimulating a human erogenous zone with a variable pressure field is provided. The device comprises the following: a housing on which a grip portion and a stimulation portion are formed; a drive device arranged in the housing and configured to repeatedly provide a drive movement; a pressure chamber arranged in the housing to provide a variable pressure field and surrounded at least in part by a chamber wall; a displaceable chamber wall portion forming a portion of the chamber wall and coupled to the drive device such that the displaceable chamber wall portion can be repeatedly displaced between different wall positions in response to the drive movement coupled thereto, whereby a chamber volume of the pressure chamber is repeatedly increased and decreased to generate the variable pressure field; a housing opening;which is arranged in the stimulation section and is in fluid communication with the pressure chamber, such that the variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber can be released via the housing opening in the form of positive and negative pressures, in particular for acting on the clitoris, a sealing device which is assigned to the housing opening and is arranged in the region of the stimulation section and is configured to seal the pressure chamber from the environment during operation, and a battery device which is configured to provide drive energy for the drive device, wherein in the drive device, a coil device through which an electric current flows during operation is arranged movably in an associated stationary permanent magnetic field and is coupled to the displaceable chamber wall section to transmit the drive movement.

[0007] A variable pressure field within the meaning of the disclosure is a temporally and spatially varying field of media pressures, which includes positive and negative pressures. Negative pressure is a media pressure that is below a reference pressure, for example, the ambient pressure, and positive pressure is a media pressure that is above the reference pressure. The medium can be a medium filling the pressure chamber. The medium can be a gas or a liquid. For example, the medium can be air.

[0008] By means of the sealing device, the pressure chamber is sealed from the environment, either completely or essentially completely, when the housing opening is placed on a body portion of an erogenous zone. The sealing device can, for example, have a sealing projection, for example a sealing bead. The sealing projection can run along an edge of the housing opening. The sealing device can be formed continuously around the entire circumference of the housing opening. The sealing device, in particular the sealing projection, can be adapted to the shape of the housing opening, for example, be circular.

[0009] The battery device may comprise a non-rechargeable and / or a rechargeable energy storage device. For example, the battery device may comprise an accumulator.

[0010] In the device, the stationary permanent magnetic field can be provided by one or more permanent magnets. Additionally, one or more pole plates can be included in the arrangement with the permanent magnet(s). The magnetic flux can be concentrated by means of the pole plates.

[0011] In contrast to electromagnetic drives, in which permanent magnets are moved in an electromagnetic field generated by a coil device to generate the drive movement, in the proposed device the coil device is movably arranged in the stationary magnetic field. The movably arranged coil device can be supplied with the control current from the control unit. In this case, the so-called Lorentz force can act on the current-carrying coil device, which is movably arranged in the stationary permanent magnetic field, so that the coil moves accordingly when energized. The strength of the Lorentz force depends on the amplitude of the control current, the length of the coil, the arrangement of the coil in relation to the magnetic field, and the flux density of the magnetic field in the air gap. The flux density of the magnetic field in the air gap, in turn, is determined for a given air gap by the magnet material as well as the magnet volume or magnet weight.A high magnetic field flux density can be achieved, all other conditions being equal, by increasing the magnet volume and / or the magnet weight of the stationary permanent magnet without increasing the weight of the movable coil assembly. This allows the mass to be moved to be kept smaller compared to the state of the art. A smaller mass can be moved more efficiently with comparatively better dynamics and with fewer disruptive vibrations in the form of structure-borne sound and more favorable noise emission in the form of airborne sound.

[0012] The drive device is designed as a linear drive device, which, during operation, generates a linear drive movement that is coupled to the displaceable chamber wall section. Due to its movement, the volume of the pressure chamber is repeatedly increased and decreased, creating a pressure field that can be used for contactless transmission of stimulation to an erogenous zone. Unlike stimulation devices in which a stimulation head is moved to transmit the stimulation waves by touch, the proposed device does not require the mass of the stimulation head to be moved.

[0013] The variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber can act on the erogenous zone, for example the clitoris, via the housing opening in the form of positive and negative pressures. For example, the variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber acts on the erogenous zone via the housing opening when the housing opening is placed on the clitoris. The housing opening can cover a clitoris completely or partially. For example, the housing opening can cover the glans clitoris. A section of the housing surrounding the housing opening can rest against the skin. For example, the section of the housing surrounding the housing opening can rest against the clitoris and / or against an area of ​​skin surrounding the clitoris. The housing opening can rest essentially tightly. For example, the section of the housing surrounding the housing opening can rest against the skin in such a way that media movement through the housing opening is impeded.The pressure applied to the housing opening in the variable pressure field can then act on the erogenous zone. This may allow a small volume flow of the medium, which does not lead to complete pressure equalization with the ambient pressure at the housing opening. For example, the section of the housing surrounding the housing opening may be intermittently in contact with the skin, such that the interruptions only allow a small volume flow of the medium, which does not lead to complete pressure equalization with the ambient pressure at the housing opening.

[0014] A chamber volume of the pressure chamber may be a maximum of approximately 0.2 l. Alternatively, the chamber volume of the pressure chamber may be a maximum of approximately 0.15 l, or alternatively a maximum of approximately 0.1 l.

[0015] By sealing the pressure chamber from the environment and enclosing a small volume of air, the spring force acting on the linear motor is increased. The spring force acting on the linear motor of the drive unit is also increased by the air volume enclosed in the compact housing on the back of the diaphragm. The enclosed, or at least largely enclosed, volume of the housing on the back of the drive unit can be a maximum of approximately 2 liters, alternatively a maximum of 1 liter, and further alternatively a maximum of 0.5 liters.

[0016] The linear motor of the drive device is designed to generate the desired frequencies and pressure differences despite increased braking spring force due to the two small volumes on the front (pressure chamber) and back (housing) of the membrane.

[0017] A closed or at least largely closed volume region on the rear side of the drive device (drive unit) in the housing of the stimulation device can be at most about 2 l. In this or other embodiments, a volume ratio between the volume of the pressure chamber and the (rear) volume region on the rear side of the drive unit in the housing can be at most about 1.5. This volume ratio can alternatively be at most about 1, more preferably at most about 0.5. This volume ratio can be at least about 0.001. In one possible embodiment, the information on the volume ratio can refer to the air-filled area in the housing that is not occupied by other parts or components in the housing.

[0018] The housing opening can have a diameter of at least approximately 5 mm and at most approximately 50 mm. Alternatively, the diameter can be at least approximately 7 mm. It can be provided that the diameter is at most approximately 40 mm. Diameter can also be understood to mean other cross-sectional dimensions of non-circular openings. In particular, the stated values ​​apply both to a circular opening and, for example, to an oval or elliptical opening. Corresponding values ​​are then assumed for the major semi-axis of the ellipse. The same applies to openings of any other shapes, for example other round or square shapes, wherein in general the size of an opening is preferably selected in particular such that the area of ​​the opening corresponds to the area of ​​a circular opening in the range of the above-mentioned dimensions.

[0019] The drive device can be configured to generate a low-frequency pneumatic alternating pressure field with an alternating frequency of approximately 0.5 Hz to approximately 150 Hz, alternatively with an alternating frequency of approximately 1 Hz to approximately 125 Hz or approximately 3 Hz to approximately 100 Hz, when the pressure chamber is sealed. An alternating pressure field in the sense of the present disclosure is understood to mean a varying pressure field which has both negative pressures and positive pressures with respect to the ambient pressure, for example alternating negative pressure phases and positive pressure phases or in another predetermined pattern of possibly identical or different negative and positive pressures. This alternating pressure field prevails in the pressure chamber, in particular in the region of the housing opening of the pressure chamber, i.e. parameters such as the frequency and amplitude of the alternating pressure field can be measured at the opening. The term pressure field or alternating pressure field therefore refers to such an alternating pressure field.

[0020] The drive device can be configured to generate a pneumatic pressure alternating field with a pressure difference between a lowest negative pressure and a highest positive pressure of approximately 20 mbar to approximately 600 mbar, or alternatively, from approximately 30 mbar to approximately 400 mbar, or from approximately 40 mbar to approximately 300 mbar, in a sealed pressure chamber. The pressure difference can be substantially symmetrical about an ambient pressure.

[0021] The pressure chamber can be configured to alternately increase the chamber volume from a neutral position of the displaceable chamber wall section by a volume change of approximately 1% to approximately 25% and to decrease it by a volume change of approximately 1% to approximately 25%. Alternatively, the volume change can be from approximately 1.1% to approximately 15% or from approximately 1.5% to approximately 11.5%. In this or other embodiments, the suspension or mount, which acts as a positioning or centering device for the carrier with the (oscillating) coil, is in the neutral position in a (neutral) initial or rest position in which no deflection has occurred.

[0022] The displaceable chamber wall section may have a diameter of at least about 5 mm and at most about 60 mm. Alternatively, the diameter may be at least about 7 mm. The diameter may be less than or equal to 60 mm, or alternatively, less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0023] The battery device may be configured to provide driving energy of alternating polarity to the coil device, so that electric current of alternating polarity flows through the coil device to displace the displaceable chamber wall portion around the neutral position.

[0024] Coil elements of the coil device can be arranged to encompass permanent magnets of the associated stationary permanent magnetic field.

[0025] A region diameter of a region encompassed by the coil elements of the coil device with the permanent magnets can correspond to at least one diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section.

[0026] The ratio of the area diameter to a diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section is at least 0.3, alternatively at least 0.5 or 0.7. In other embodiments, the ratio of the area diameter (diameter of the coil device) to the diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section is at most 2, alternatively at most 1.8 or 1.5.

[0027] The movable chamber wall section may comprise a flexibly deformable membrane. In this or other embodiments, the membrane may be formed from a plastic material.

[0028] The flexibly deformable membrane can have an elastic membrane section that stretches and contracts when the movable chamber wall section is repeatedly moved between different wall positions. Membrane sections can be elastically stretched and compressed. These elastic membrane sections can be made of a plastic or rubber material, for example.

[0029] The displaceable chamber wall section can be formed entirely by the flexibly deformable membrane.

[0030] The displaceable chamber wall section can have a rigid wall section that can be repeatedly displaced between various associated wall positions in response to the coupled drive movement. The rigid wall section is displaceable relative to adjacent wall sections of the chamber wall. A combination of a rigid wall section and one or more membrane sections can be provided. To enable displaceability of the rigid wall section, it is displaceably integrated into the chamber wall, for example by coupling the rigid wall section to adjacent wall sections via a bead or a spring element. Such a bearing can generally be provided for the displaceable chamber wall section.

[0031] First coil elements of the coil device can be arranged on the movable chamber wall section. The first coil element can be arranged on the flexibly deformable membrane and / or the rigid wall section. The first coil element can be formed partially or completely thereon. During operation, the first coil element then moves with the movable chamber wall section.

[0032] The first coil elements can be embedded, at least in sections, into a membrane material of the flexibly deformable membrane. For example, the first coil element of the coil device can be cast into the membrane material. Alternatively or additionally, the first coil element can be incorporated between layers of the membrane material by means of a lamination process.

[0033] The movable chamber wall section can have a wall section with a wave shape. The wave shape of the wall section can be elastically deformable when the movable chamber wall section is moved during operation. The wave shape can, for example, correspond to a sine wave or a zigzag wave.

[0034] At least some of the coil elements can be arranged in the region of wave troughs and / or wave crests of the waveform.

[0035] Second coil elements of the coil device can be arranged on a coupling component that couples to the displaceable chamber wall section. The second coil elements can be provided in addition to or as an alternative to the first coil elements. The second coil elements can be arranged exclusively and entirely on the coupling component, for example as a wire winding on a component body. For example, a moving coil construction can be provided in this way. A coil winding can be arranged on a rod-shaped component body which, during operation, when the coil device is supplied with electrical current, repeatedly dips into and is moved out of the stationary permanent magnetic field to generate the drive movement. The drive movement thus provided by the coupling component can be transmitted to the displaceable chamber wall section directly or via further coupling components.

[0036] The chamber wall can have a further displaceable chamber wall section, which forms a section of the chamber wall and can be displaced between different wall or displacement positions. The further displaceable chamber wall section is formed separately from the displaceable chamber wall section in the region of the chamber wall. For example, it can be arranged opposite the displaceable chamber wall section. The further displaceable chamber wall section can be moved or displaced relative to adjacent wall sections of the chamber wall. The further displaceable chamber wall section can be free of any coupling to the drive movement; it can be designed as a freely oscillating wall section and thus be implemented as a noise absorption component.The coupling or integration of the further displaceable chamber wall section into the chamber wall can be designed in a manner comparable to or different from the connection of the displaceable chamber wall section, whereby, unlike the displaceable chamber wall section, there is no coupling to the drive device. Associated pairs of displaceable and further displaceable chamber wall sections can be provided, for example, such that the associated chamber wall sections are arranged opposite one another. During operation, the further displaceable chamber wall section is selectively set into vibration when the displaceable wall section is repeatedly displaced due to the drive movement.

[0037] The coil device can be arranged at least partially in a space between opposing permanent magnets. At least in one of the operating positions in which the coil device is displaced toward the permanent magnets, the coil device can be arranged in the space between the opposing permanent magnets. As an alternative to forming a space between opposing permanent magnets, it can be provided that the coil device is arranged only on one side opposite the permanent magnet(s).

[0038] One or more permanent magnets, which provide the associated stationary permanent magnetic field, can be arranged on the chamber wall. The one or more permanent magnets can be designed to form a chamber wall section.

[0039] The pressure chamber can be formed with several fluidically connected pressure chambers. The housing opening for exerting the variable pressure field on the clitoris for contactless stimulation can be arranged in a distal or end pressure chamber, whereas the displaceable chamber wall section, which is repeatedly displaced during operation to generate the variable pressure field, is arranged in the region of a proximal or front pressure chamber. A transition for the fluid connection is formed between adjacent pressure chambers, which transition can have a narrower cross-section than the interconnected pressure chambers.

[0040] During operation, separately formed coil elements of the coil device can be operated with different electrical currents. If separately formed coil elements are subjected to different electrical currents, this allows the repeated displacement of the respective coil element to be individually configured during operation, for example, with regard to a deflection amplitude and / or a deflection frequency, so that variable pressure fields of different types can be generated. For example, the variable pressure field can initially be generated essentially using one of the coil elements, in order to then model this pressure field using a displaceable chamber wall section that is connected to another coil element that is repeatedly displaced during operation.

[0041] The coil device can have an upper and a lower partial coil arranged one above the other on the carrier of the coil winding. The upper and lower partial coils can have separate electrical connections. During operation, they can be selectively supplied with different electrical currents. The different electrical currents can differ with respect to one or more current parameters, for example, amplitude, polarity, and / or temporal amplitude behavior. The upper and lower partial coils are formed separately from the movable chamber section on the carrier.

[0042] The upper and lower partial coils can be arranged opposite permanent magnets or pole plates, at least in the neutral rest position around which they are then displaced or oscillated during operation, wherein a design can also be provided in which one of the partial coils is opposite permanent magnets, whereas the other of the partial coils is arranged opposite pole plates.

[0043] In the various designs, the permanent magnets can be arranged internally or externally with respect to the coil windings. The permanent magnets can also be arranged below the coil winding(s).

[0044] It can be provided that the coil winding(s) arranged on the carrier is displaced (deflected) from a neutral rest position before the start of operation, in which the displaceable chamber wall section is displaced back and forth (or up and down) with respect to an initial position, in order to then be moved or displaced around this displaced position during operation. During operation, the coil can be subjected to a current of non-changing polarity, which simplifies the electrical supply. Such preliminary displacement or deflection can occur against a pretensioning device that provides a pretensioning force against the deflection, for example a spring mechanism. The pretensioning device providing the pretension can support the displacement of the coil device and thus of the displaceable chamber wall section during operation.

[0045] According to another aspect, a method for generating a variable pressure field is provided, comprising the following steps: providing a stimulation device with a housing on which a handle portion and a stimulation portion are formed; repeatedly providing a drive movement by means of a drive device arranged in the housing; providing a variable pressure field in a pressure chamber arranged in the housing and at least partially surrounded by a chamber wall; displacing a displaceable chamber wall portion, which forms a portion of the chamber wall and is coupled to the drive device, such that the displaceable chamber wall portion is repeatedly displaced between different wall positions in response to the drive movement coupled thereto, whereby a chamber volume of the pressure chamber is repeatedly increased and decreased to generate the variable pressure field;The variable pressure field acts on the clitoris in the form of negative and positive pressures through a housing opening arranged in the stimulation section and fluidly connected to the pressure chamber, such that the variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber can be released via the housing opening in the form of negative and positive pressures; and providing drive energy for the drive device by means of a battery device, wherein a coil device in the drive device, through which an electric current flows during operation, moves in an associated stationary permanent magnetic field and is coupled to the displaceable chamber wall section to transmit the drive movement.

[0046] According to another aspect, a device for stimulating a human erogenous zone, in particular the clitoris, with a variable pressure field is provided. The device comprises the following: a housing on which a grip portion and a stimulation portion are formed; a drive device arranged in the housing and configured to repeatedly provide a drive movement; a pressure chamber arranged in the housing to provide a variable pressure field and surrounded at least in part by a chamber wall; a displaceable chamber wall portion forming a portion of the chamber wall and coupled to the drive device such that the displaceable chamber wall portion can be repeatedly displaced between different wall positions in response to the drive movement coupled thereto;whereby a chamber volume of the pressure chamber is repeatedly enlarged and reduced to generate the variable pressure field, a housing opening arranged in the stimulation section and fluidly connected to the pressure chamber, such that the variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber can be released via the housing opening in the form of positive and negative pressures, in particular for acting on the clitoris, and a battery device configured to provide drive energy for the drive device, wherein a coil device, through which an electric current flows during operation, is movably arranged in an associated stationary permanent magnetic field and is coupled to the displaceable chamber wall section to transmit the drive movement. The chamber volume of the pressure chamber is at most approximately 0.2 l.

[0047] In connection with the method for generating a variable pressure field by means of the stimulation device, the embodiments explained above can be provided accordingly.

[0048] During operation, the coil device is supplied with an electric current whose frequency and / or amplitude are adjusted by a control device. Description of implementation examples

[0049] Further embodiments are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures of a drawing. Herein: Fig. 1a a schematic representation of a device for stimulating an erogenous zone with a variable pressure field in front view; Fig. 1b the device for stimulating an erogenous zone from Fig. 1ain cross-section; Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device with a pressure chamber formed with one or two pressure sub-chambers; Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device with two pressure sub-chambers each; Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which a dual drive is provided; Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which two actively displaceable chamber wall sections are provided in the region of the pressure chamber; Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device in which coil elements are integrated into a displaceable chamber wall section; Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which coil elements are also integrated into the displaceable chamber wall section; Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device with a pressure chamber having two pressure sub-chambers, wherein coil elements are integrated into a displaceable chamber wall section; Fig.9 a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which, in contrast to the embodiment in . Fig. 9the pressure sub-chambers are connected to one another via a lateral transition; Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device, wherein one or two further displaceable chamber wall sections are provided; Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device in which the pressure chamber has two interconnected pressure sub-chambers; Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device in which a displaceable chamber wall section is arranged between permanent magnets; Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device in which a displaceable chamber wall section has a wave shape; Fig. 14 is a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device in which the displaceable chamber wall section has a wave shape, wherein the pressure chamber is formed with two pressure sub-chambers;15 a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which two pressure sub-chambers, in contrast to the design in . Fig. 15 are connected to each other via a lateral transition; Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of arrangements for a stimulation device in which the displaceable chamber wall section has a wave shape, with further displaceable chamber wall sections being provided; Fig. 17 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device, wherein a displaceable chamber wall section with a wave shape is arranged between permanent magnets; Fig. 18 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which the coil device has separate coil windings and permanent magnets are arranged externally; Fig. 19 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which the coil device has separate coil windings and permanent magnets are arranged internally; Fig. 20 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which the coil device has separate coil windings and permanent magnets are arranged externally on top; Fig.Fig. 21 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which the coil device has separate coil windings and permanent magnets are arranged externally below; Fig. 22 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which permanent magnets are arranged internally with respect to the voice coil; Fig. 23 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which permanent magnets are arranged externally with respect to the voice coil; Fig. 24 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which permanent magnets are arranged below with respect to the voice coil; Fig. 25 is a schematic representation of an arrangement for a stimulation device in which the voice coil is pre-displaced from a neutral rest or initial position; and Fig.Fig. 26 is a schematic representation of another arrangement for a stimulation device in which the voice coil is pre-displaced from a neutral rest or initial position. Fig. 27 is a schematic representation of another arrangement for a stimulation device in which the voice coil is displaced from a neutral rest or initial position.

[0050] Fig. 1a shows a schematic representation of a device for stimulating (stimulation device) an erogenous zone with a variable pressure field in the front view, Fig. 1b shows the stimulation device in cross section.

[0051] The stimulation device 20 is a, for example, portable, electrical or small device which has a housing 21, a housing opening 22 for placing, for example, on the clitoris 30, operating elements 23, a display 24, an on / off switch 25, an optional socket 26 and a battery device 28, for example with an accumulator.

[0052] A sealing device 31 is provided, which in the illustrated embodiment is formed with a sealing bead. By means of the sealing device 31, the pressure chamber 4 is sealed or almost sealed from the environment during operation, so that an alternating pressure field can be generated in the pressure chamber 4.

[0053] The housing 21 can be ergonomically designed so that it can be held comfortably with one hand and has no sharp or pointed edges. Furthermore, the housing 21 can be made of a plastic, for example, polycarbonate (PC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Furthermore, the gripping areas or even the entire housing 21 can be supplemented or designed with a haptically advantageous silicone, for example in the form of a silicone coating. The housing 21 can be designed to be at least water-repellent or splash-proof, for example, with protection class IP 24. Furthermore, the stimulation device 20 can be designed to be waterproof against immersion under water.

[0054] The control element 23 or the control elements 23 serve to set the operating mode of the device, i.e., to set the modulation of the variable pressure field. The control elements 23 can, for example, comprise at least one push button, at least one rotary switch, or at least one touch-sensitive switch. Furthermore, the control elements 23 can provide visual feedback for actuation, for example, by means of integrated light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0055] An optional display 24 serves to inform the user about the device status and / or the setting status. The display 24 can be configured, for example, with a single LED, a plurality of LEDs, or as an LCD display. The displayed information can be, for example, the power-on state of the device, the charge level of the battery device 28, or the current setting of the pressure field modulation.

[0056] The on / off switch 25 serves to activate and deactivate the stimulation device 20. This on / off switch 25 can, for example, be a push button which switches the stimulation device 20 on or off when pressed for a longer period of time, or a latching slide switch.

[0057] A socket 26 serves to supply external power to the stimulation device 20 via an external plug 27, which is connected, for example, to an external power adapter. To ensure the splash-proof nature of the stimulation device 20, a magnetic-inductive transformer can be provided instead of the socket 26, which enables power transmission to the stimulation device 20 without an electrically conductive contact. The stimulation device 20 also has a battery device 28, for example with an accumulator, such as a nickel metal hydrite battery (NiMH) or a lithium battery, for wireless operation. Alternatively or additionally, a (longer) power supply cable can also be led out of the stimulation device. Likewise, alternatively or additionally, magnetic contacts can be provided as a power supply connection.

[0058] In the schematic cross-section in Fig. 1bthe housing opening 22 for placing on the clitoris 30, a pressure chamber 4, and the drive device 32 of the stimulation device 20 are shown.

[0059] A control device 29 controls the drive device 32, the operating elements 23, and the display 24. The control device 29 and the drive device 32 are supplied with power by the internal battery device 28 and / or the external power supply 27. The control device 29, which, for example, comprises a microcontroller or is hard-wired, initially controls the power supply of all consumers of the stimulation device 20, as well as optionally a charging and discharging process of the battery device 28 and / or battery management. In particular, the control device 29 controls the drive unit 32, for example, the modulation of the pressure field, etc. Furthermore, the control device 29 can have a memory in which at least one modulation or stimulation pattern is stored.The drive device 32 can now be controlled in its excitation according to these pre-stored stimulation patterns via the control elements 23, at the discretion of the user of the stimulation device 20. The stimulation patterns of the pressure field can optionally also be individually created and saved by the user via the control elements.

[0060] A volume ratio between the volume of the pressure chamber 4 and a (rear or remaining) volume region 21a on the rear side of the drive unit 32 in the housing 21 is, for example, at most about 1.5 in the various embodiments.

[0061] For the closed or at least largely closed volume region 21a of the housing 21 on the rear side of the drive unit 32, a volume of at most approximately 2 l can be provided, alternatively at most approximately 1 l and further alternatively at most approximately 0.5 l.

[0062] The following are based on the Fig. 2 to 17 Embodiments for an arrangement for a stimulation device or arrangements for the drive unit 32 and the pressure chamber 4 are described, in which coil elements of an electromagnetic linear drive are arranged so as to be movable or displaceable in a stationary permanent magnetic field.

[0063] In the Fig. 2 In the arrangements shown, a displaceable wall section 1 connected to a support 5 is moved back and forth by means of at least one oscillating or plunger coil 2 attached thereto in accordance with a coil supply by means of the control current in a magnetic field 3 provided by permanent magnets in order to displace the displaceable wall section 1 back and forth during operation in order to generate a variable pressure field.

[0064] The movable wall section 1 (made of a polymer or paper, for example), as part of a pressure chamber 4 of the stimulation device, is attached to a carrier 5 (made of aluminum, Kapton, or an aluminum-Kapton laminate, for example). The movable wall section 1 can be integrated into the chamber via a bead 6, which mechanically follows the strokes of the movable wall section 1 largely without mechanical stress. Coil elements of a voice coil 2 are wound around the carrier 5. During operation, these coil elements are fed by the control current from a control unit. The voice coil 2 consists of electrical conductors made of a material that is as electrically conductive as possible (for example, copper or silver), which are insulated from each other and from the carrier 5 with an electrically insulating varnish. The magnetic field is provided by at least one permanent magnet 7, which can have a ring shape.The magnetic flux is transmitted by means of pole plates 9, which have a rear pole plate 8 (for example, as in . Fig. 2 , having a cylindrical shape) and an upper pole plate 9a (for example, as in Fig. 2 , with a ring shape) are led via an, for example, annular air gap 10 to the cylindrical pole core 11. The rear 8 and upper pole plates 9, like the pole core 11, are made of magnetically highly permeable material (for example, a soft magnetic alloy).

[0065] The permanent magnet 7 requires the highest possible flux density to induce the air gap 10 between the upper pole plate 9a and the pole core 11, which should be kept as narrow as possible, which is why the strongest possible permanent magnets with flux densities of about 0.4 to about 1.2 T (for example neodymium-iron-boron magnets) are used, which generate strong magnetic fields with low weight.

[0066] The carrier 5 with the voice coil 2 is structurally centered and guided in the air gap 10, if necessary by at least one holder or suspension 12 (for example, made of plastic, textile fabric, or paper) to prevent wobbling of the voice coil 2. The holder or suspension 12 is attached to a frame 13 (for example, made of plastic, aluminum, or magnesium). Alternatively, the wobbling of the voice coil 2 can also be prevented by means of a guide on the pole core or the permanent magnet.

[0067] To move the movable wall section 1, the voice coil 2 is supplied with a control alternating current from a control unit. Depending on the current direction or polarity, the voice coil 2 is moved upwards or downwards in the magnetic field of the air gap 10 by the Lorentz force. The directions of the Lorentz force, the magnetic field, and the current flow are related to Fig. 2perpendicular to each other. The stroke of the deflection of the voice coil 2 is determined by the amplitude of the control current. The frequency of the alternating current corresponds to the frequency of the voice coil movement and thus the frequency of the movement of the movable wall section 1. The frequency and stroke of the voice coil and thus the movement of the movable wall section 1 can thus be controlled independently of one another relatively easily using the current frequency and current amplitude. The changing pressure field and the resulting alternating overpressure and underpressure at the erogenous body zone (clitoris) can be controlled independently of one another in frequency and amplitude through the alternating compression and expansion of the air by means of the movement of the movable wall section 1 (or of several movable wall sections during operation).

[0068] Due to the direct transmission, an extended frequency range from below 1 Hz up to several hundred Hz is easily possible with this principle. The direct current from the accumulator simply needs to be converted into alternating current. Conversion to alternating current can involve switching on and off and / or superimposing direct current components. This can provide an alternating voltage with a direct current offset. For example, an alternating voltage can be provided that does not involve a polarity reversal, but merely a change in the voltage level while maintaining the same voltage direction (polarity).

[0069] The arrangement can be done according to the right illustration in Fig. 2a pressure chamber with several pressure sub-chambers, in which a further pressure chamber 16 is provided in addition to the pressure chamber 4, so that connected pressure sub-chambers are provided, which are connected via a connecting channel 15. The housing opening for the effect of the variable pressure field on the erogenous zone is provided on the further pressure chamber 16.

[0070] Even in the design of Fig. 3 the pressure chamber 4 and the further pressure chamber 16 are provided.

[0071] The generation of the variable pressure field by moving the movable wall section 1 (and thus the overpressure and underpressure) is accompanied by the generation of noise, i.e., local pressure fluctuations in the air propagating at the speed of sound, which are perceived by the human ear. By means of suitable absolute dimensioning of the chamber volume of the pressure chamber 4 and the (remaining) volume 21a of the housing 21, as well as the ratio of these volumes, taking into account the tuning of the linear drive and the design of the coil elements and diaphragm of the movable wall section 1 to achieve a high fundamental resonance frequency during operation, the generation of airborne noise is largely suppressed. The noise inherent in the movement of the movable wall section 1 can also be absorbed by suitable measures, i.e., the sound energy can be converted into heat.

[0072] In Fig. 3(right) the noise is dissipated as heat according to the absorption principle of a plate vibrator by the friction in at least one of the chamber walls 18, which is formed with another movable wall section, and by the friction of the vibrating chamber wall in the air. The chamber wall 18, which vibrates for noise absorption, is also integrated into the chamber by a resilient spring device 17. The deformation of the spring and the resulting friction in the spring device 17 also ultimately converts sound energy into heat and dissipates it. The plate vibrator is a narrow-band resonance absorber, the mass and spring travel of which are to be selected such that the characteristic absorber frequency for the highest possible noise absorption coefficient as a function of the sound frequency is as close as possible to or in the frequency range of the movement of the movable wall section 1. Furthermore, the noise generated by the piston orNoises generated by membrane movement are dissipated into heat in a porous structure according to the absorption principle.

[0073] The chamber walls 18 can be formed with a porous structure and, for example, integrated into the plate oscillator or alternatively applied to the plate oscillator. The noise is absorbed by the viscous flow losses of the air due to friction against the porous damping material and the friction due to deformation of the material. The porous absorber is a broadband absorber, the layer thickness and material of which are selected such that the characteristic absorber frequency lies as close as possible to, or in the frequency range of, the movement of the displaceable wall section 1 for the highest possible absorption coefficient. Absorption according to the plate oscillator principle or in a porous structure reduces noise propagation as much as possible.

[0074] The drive unit is formed with a few moving components of low weight and thus has few unbalanced, free mass forces that excite components or the housing of the stimulation device to oscillate or vibrate at certain displaceable wall sections. The low weight also achieves the highest possible fundamental resonance of the moving part of the drive device 32. In addition, as shown in Fig. 3 As shown, the further movable wall section of the chamber wall 18 can optionally be designed with a ferrofluid 14 to dampen the resonances of the voice coil 2 and a frame 13 or a closed chamber (not completely filled), which also improves the cooling of the voice coil 2 and carrier 5 due to the increased heat conduction compared to air. The heat capacity of the deliberately lightweight voice coil 2 and carrier 5 is low.

[0075] The flexibility in the design of the drive allows a great deal of freedom in the design of the stimulation device, making the drive elongated or wide, achieving the shift of the fundamental resonance of the moving parts of the linear drive to suppress airborne noise and also reducing the local pressure fluctuations propagating at the speed of sound by means of noise absorption measures in the chamber (cf. Fig. 3 ). Furthermore, analogous noise absorption measures can also be used in the volume of the housing 21 on the rear side of the movable pressure chamber wall section 1.

[0076] The drive unit or device has a comparatively low complexity due to the direct conversion of the electrical energy of the battery unit 28, for example, from the accumulator, into a translational movement of a simple voice coil coupled to the movable wall section 1, which in the various designs—regardless of the specific drive—can be formed, for example, with a piston, a rigid wall section, and / or a diaphragm, which can be made of an elastic material, at least in sections. The direct conversion also results in potentially high efficiency, a compact design, and low weight.

[0077] The movable wall section(s) 1 can be designed as an integral part of the chamber (pressure chamber - chamber in which the variable pressure field is generated), thereby ensuring a good seal against compressible and incompressible media up to a certain overpressure and underpressure of the chamber.

[0078] In order to keep constant or increase the area-specific force on the displaceable wall section 1 by the carrier 5 while simultaneously using a wide or flat design of the drive (ie with a compact voice coil 2 and the carrier 5), the displaceable wall section 1 can be arranged by means of more than one coil 2 and more than one carrier 5, as in Fig. 4 represented, moved.

[0079] Even when executed from Fig. 5The flexibility of the drive is increased with a constant or increased specific surface force on the displaceable wall section 1. For absorption, devices based on the plate oscillator principle 17 or in the form of porous structures 18 are also provided here.

[0080] In all designs, the noise radiated on the back side of the movable wall section 1 is absorbed, for example, by a device based on the plate oscillator principle or in a porous structure and is thus reduced as much as possible (not shown).

[0081] At the Fig. 6 In the arrangement shown, fine conductors of the coil 2 through which current flows are located directly on at least one movable wall section 1.

[0082] On at least one side of the movable wall section 1 there is at least one permanent magnet 7, for example in the form of a bar magnet as in Fig. 6shown. The permanent magnet 7 requires the highest possible flux density to induce the air gap 4, which should be kept as narrow as possible, between the permanent magnet 7 and the movable wall section 1 with the electrical conductors 2. This is why the strongest possible permanent magnets with flux densities of 0.4 ... 1.2 T (for example, neodymium-iron-boron magnets) are used, which generate a strong magnetic field 3 with low weight. The movable wall section 1 (for example made of a polymer or paper) as part of a first chamber of the stimulation device 9 can be integrated into the chamber via a bead 6, which mechanically follows the strokes of the movable wall section 1 largely without mechanical stress. The electrical conductors 2 on the movable wall section 1 are made of the most electrically conductive material possible (for example, copper or silver) and are electrically insulated from one another by being integrated into the movable wall section 1.The magnetic flux is directed by means of lateral pole plates 19 (for example as in . Fig. 6 The lateral pole plates 19 are made of a highly magnetically permeable material (e.g., a soft magnetic alloy). The chamber of the stimulation device 9, the permanent magnet 7, and the lateral pole plates 19 are mounted in a frame 8 (e.g., made of plastic, aluminum, or magnesium).

[0083] To move the movable wall section 1, the thin electrical conductors 2 are supplied with a control alternating current from a control unit. Depending on the current direction or polarity, the electrical conductors 2 are moved upwards or downwards in the magnetic field of the air gap 4 by the Lorentz force. The driving forces act evenly over the entire surface of the movable wall section 1. The directions of the Lorentz force, the magnetic field, and the current flow are in Fig. 6perpendicular to each other. In the variant with two oppositely polarized permanent magnets in Fig. 6 (right) the electrical conductors via the two permanent magnets 7 must be fed with different polarity in order to achieve the same movement.

[0084] The deflection stroke of the electrical conductors integrated into the movable wall section 1 is determined by the amplitude of the control current. The frequency of the alternating current corresponds to the frequency of the conductor movement and thus to the frequency of the movement of the movable wall section 1. The frequency and stroke of the movable wall section 1 can thus be controlled independently of each other relatively easily using the current frequency and current amplitude. The changing pressure field and the resulting alternating positive and negative pressure at the erogenous body zone (clitoris) can be controlled independently of each other in frequency and amplitude by the alternating compression and expansion of the air through the movement of the movable wall section 1.

[0085] Due to the direct transmission, an extended frequency range from below 1 Hz to several hundred Hz is possible with this principle. The direct current from the accumulator simply needs to be converted into alternating current. Conversion to alternating current can involve switching on and off and / or superimposing direct current components. This can provide an alternating voltage with a direct current offset. For example, an alternating voltage can be provided that does not involve a polarity reversal, but merely a change in the voltage level while maintaining the same voltage direction (polarity).

[0086] Alternatively, the drive unit can also be in ring form as in Fig. 7 shown.

[0087] In the ring-shaped electromagnetic planar transducer, the diaphragm is circular. The permanent magnet 7, the electrical conductors 2, the lateral pole plate 19, and the mounting bracket are designed, for example, in a ring shape. A pole core 11 is provided in the symmetry axis of the drive unit for improved guidance of the magnetic field. Alternatively, the drive unit can also be connected to a second chamber 11 via a connecting channel 10, as shown in Fig. 8 shown.

[0088] Alternatively, at least one second chamber 11 can also be arranged as in Fig. 9 located to the side of the drive unit.

[0089] In an embodiment with a second chamber 11 laterally (left) or opposite (right) of the movable wall section 1, noise-absorbing devices can be installed according to the plate vibrator principle or in a porous structure as in Fig. 10 be provided.

[0090] The noise-absorbing devices reduce the noise propagation inherent in the movement of the movable wall section 1 as much as possible.

[0091] Alternatively, the two-chamber versions can be made of Fig. 9 (right) and Fig. 10 (right) can also be made in ring form.

[0092] In order to generate the highest possible flux density in the air gap 4, which should be kept as narrow as possible, and thereby to keep the area-specific force on the movable wall section 1 constant or to increase it, permanent magnets 7 can alternatively be arranged on both sides of the movable wall section 1 as in Fig. 12 shown.

[0093] The design of the drive with permanent magnets 7 on both sides of the movable wall section 1 in Fig. 12can be designed with two permanent magnets with opposite polarity arrangement above and below the movable wall section 1 (left) or alternatively with two ring-shaped permanent magnets above and below the movable wall section 1 (right).

[0094] In all designs, the noise radiated on the back side of the movable wall section 1 is absorbed, for example, by a device based on the plate oscillator principle or in a porous structure and is thus reduced as much as possible (not shown).

[0095] At the in Fig. 13 In the electromagnetic transducer shown, the fine conductors 2 through which current flows are located directly on the movable wall section 1, which has at least one thin membrane folded in a lamellar shape (lamellar membrane).

[0096] On at least one side of the lamella membrane there is at least one permanent magnet 7 (left), for example in the form of a bar magnet as in Fig. 13shown. The permanent magnet 7 requires the highest possible flux density to induce the air gap 4, which should be kept as narrow as possible by design, between the permanent magnet 7 and the lamellar membrane with the electrical conductors 2. For this reason, the strongest possible permanent magnets with flux densities of approximately 0.4 to approximately 1.2 T (for example, neodymium-iron-boron magnets) are used, which generate a strong magnetic field 3 with low weight. The lamellar membrane (for example made of a polymer, e.g., polyamide, polyester, or polyimide) as part of a first chamber of the stimulation device 10 can be integrated into the chamber via a bead 6, which mechanically follows the strokes of the displaceable wall section 1 largely without mechanical stress. The electrically insulated conductors 2 on the lamellar membrane are made of the most electrically conductive material possible (for example, copper or silver) and are glued, for example, to the lamellar membrane.The magnetic flux is directed by means of lateral pole plates 19 (for example as in . Fig. 13 The lateral pole plates 19 are made of a highly magnetically permeable material (e.g., a soft magnetic alloy). The chamber of the stimulation device 10, the permanent magnet 7, and the lateral pole plates 19 are mounted in a frame 9 (e.g., made of plastic, aluminum, or magnesium).

[0097] The lamellar membrane is formed as in Fig. 13shown with parallel electrical conductor tracks 2 running in a meandering pattern. The direction of current flow must be the same for all conductor tracks, since the magnetic field 3 also has the same orientation everywhere in the air gap 4, which is designed to be as narrow as possible. The electrical conductors 2 are laid out in a meandering pattern on the lamellar membrane such that the current flows through the adjacent lamellae in opposite directions. To move the lamellar membrane 1, the thin electrical conductors 2 are fed with a control alternating current from a control unit. Depending on the direction of current flow or polarity, the lamellae then move towards or away from each other due to the Lorentz force and press the air out of their space or suck it in.Alternatively, the movement of the lamella membrane can also be achieved with an alternating voltage, which does not involve a polarity change, but merely a change in the voltage level while maintaining the same voltage direction (polarity). Folding the lamellas results in a significantly larger membrane surface area. Despite the comparatively large membrane surface, the entire membrane surface is driven evenly. Alternatively, several permanent magnets 7 can be arranged in... Fig. 13 (right) are arranged under the lamellar membrane.

[0098] The deflection stroke of the electrical conductors 2 integrated into the lamellar membrane is determined by the amplitude of the control current. The frequency of the alternating current corresponds to the frequency of the conductor movement and thus to the frequency of the lamellar membrane movement. The frequency and stroke of the lamellar membrane movement can thus be controlled independently of each other relatively easily by the current frequency and current amplitude. The changing pressure field and the resulting alternating positive and negative pressure at the erogenous zone (clitoris) can be controlled independently of each other in frequency and amplitude by the alternating compression and expansion of the air through the contraction and extension of the lamellar membrane.

[0099] Due to the direct transmission, an extended frequency range from below 1 Hz to several hundred Hz is possible with this principle. The direct current from the accumulator simply needs to be converted into alternating current. Conversion to alternating current can involve switching on and off and / or superimposing direct current components. This can provide an alternating voltage with a direct current offset. For example, an alternating voltage can be provided that does not involve a polarity reversal, but merely a change in the voltage level while maintaining the same voltage direction (polarity).

[0100] Alternatively, the drive unit can also be connected to the further chamber 16 via the connecting channel 15 as in Fig. 14 shown.

[0101] Alternatively, at least one second chamber 11 can also be arranged as in Fig. 15 located to the side of the drive unit.

[0102] In an embodiment with a second chamber 11 laterally (left) or opposite (right) of the movable wall section 1, noise-absorbing devices can be installed according to the plate vibrator principle or in a porous structure as in Fig. 16 be provided.

[0103] In order to generate the highest possible flux density in the air gap 14, which should be kept as narrow as possible, and thereby to keep the area-specific force on the movable wall section 1 constant or to increase it, permanent magnets 7 can alternatively be arranged on both sides of the movable wall section 1 as in Fig. 17 shown.

[0104] The movable wall section 1 is located in Fig. 17 directly between the poles of the permanent magnets 7 and can also be designed with several permanent magnets 7 next to each other.

[0105] In all versions, the noise radiated on the back of the lamellar membrane is absorbed, for example, by a device based on the plate oscillator principle or in a porous structure and thus reduced as much as possible (not shown).

[0106] The Fig. 18 to 24 show further embodiments of an arrangement for a stimulation device or arrangements for the drive unit 32 and the pressure chamber 4. In each case, coil elements of an electromagnetic linear drive are arranged so as to be movable or displaceable in a stationary permanent magnetic field. The same reference numerals as in the preceding figures are used for identical features.

[0107] In the embodiments in the Fig. 18 to 24The suspension or mounting 12, which acts as a positioning or centering device for the carrier 5 with the (oscillating) coil 2, is shown in a neutral initial state in which no deflection has occurred. In contrast, the Fig. 25 and 26 a design in which the carrier 5 with the voice coil 2 is moved from the neutral initial or zero position (cf. Fig. 18 to 24 ) is displaced downwards into the stationary permanent magnetic field 3. Together with the carrier 5, the movable chamber wall section 1 is displaced downwards. During operation, the carrier 5 with the voice coil 2 and the movable chamber wall section 1 oscillate, starting from the Fig. 25 and 26 shown deflected initial position, to the neutral rest position. In other embodiments, in particular those shown in the Fig. 18 to 24 The examples shown are based on the Fig. 18 to 24shown neutral resting position around this neutral starting position.

[0108] The designs in the Fig. 25 and 26 In particular, they allow the voice coil 2 to be operated by applying an electric current of non-alternating polarity. A current of alternating polarity is, however, provided in other embodiments, for example in one or more of the embodiments in the Fig. 18 to 24 . Other than those in the Fig. 25 and 26 The configurations shown can be operated around a deflected position that differs from the neutral rest or initial position.

[0109] In the examples shown in the Fig. 18 to 21 The coil 2 has an upper coil section 2a and a lower coil section 2b with separate coil windings. In the examples in the Figs. 18 and 19the upper and lower partial coils 2a, 2b are arranged opposite pole plates 9, with the permanent magnets 7 being arranged on the outside ( Fig. 18 ) or internal ( Fig. 19 ) with respect to coil 2. The internal design supports the formation of optimized magnetic induction.

[0110] The examples in the Figs. 20 and 21 the permanent magnets 7 are arranged externally with respect to the voice coil 2. The arrangement of the permanent magnets 7 shown there, which in comparison to the design in the Fig. 18 instead of the upper pole cap 9a or the lower pole cap 9b, supports a flat design.

[0111] The designs in the Fig. 22 to 24 use a compared to the embodiments in the Fig. 18 to 21 one-piece coil 2, wherein the permanent magnets 7 are also arranged in relation to the coil 2 according to the Figs. 22 and 23can be arranged inside or outside. When designed in Fig. 24 the permanent magnets 7 are arranged below the voice coil 2.

[0112] In the example in Fig. 18 Upper and lower pole caps 9a, 9b are provided, which are arranged above and below the permanent magnets 7. In the embodiment in Fig. 19 the upper and lower pole caps 9a, 9b are arranged above and below a middle pole cap 9c and in contact therewith.

[0113] In the designs in the Fig. 25 and 26 The permanent magnets 7 are arranged between the upper pole plate 9a and the rear pole plate 8 and are in contact with them. According to Fig. 25 a spring 40 is provided which provides a spring preload against the shown deflected position of the carrier 5 with the voice coil 2. Fig. 26shows an alternative embodiment in which the spring 40 is omitted. Preload can be provided here by means of the suspension / mount 12.

[0114] Fig. 27 shows an embodiment in which the coil device 2 is comparable to the embodiment in Fig. 22 which surrounds the permanent magnets 7 on the outside, whereby the pole plates 9c shown can optionally be omitted. In contrast to the design in Fig. 22A region diameter encompassed by the coil device 2 and in which the permanent magnets 7 are arranged is larger than the diameter of the movable chamber wall section 1. Alternatively, it can be provided (not shown) that the region diameter and the diameter of the movable chamber wall section are substantially the same size. In this and other embodiments, the movable chamber wall section 1 and the coil device 2 are arranged in a common central position (centered). Fig. 27 The design shown is, due to its selected structural properties, particularly suitable for providing a sufficient driving force for the displacement of the displaceable chamber wall section 3 by the Fig. 27 shown (neutral) rest or starting position (i.e. raising and lowering relative to the rest and starting position) so that the desired alternating pressure field can be generated in the small volumes.

[0115] The area diameter, which corresponds to the diameter of the coil device 2, can have a ratio of at least 0.3 to the diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section 1, alternatively a ratio of at least 0.5 or 0.7. In other embodiments, the ratio of the area diameter (diameter of the coil device 2) to the diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section 1 is at most 2, alternatively at most 1.8 or 1.5.

[0116] In the embodiment Fig. 27 The suspension or holder 12, which acts as a positioning or centering device for the carrier 5 with the (oscillating) coil 2, is shown in a neutral initial or rest position in which no deflection has occurred. In contrast, the Fig. 25 and 26 a design in which the carrier 5 with the voice coil 2 is moved from the neutral initial or zero position (cf. Fig. 27) downwards into the stationary permanent magnetic field 3.

[0117] The features disclosed in the above description, the claims and the drawings may be important for the realization of the various embodiments both individually and in any combination.

Claims

1. A device for stimulating a human erogenous zone with a variable pressure field, comprising: - a housing (21) on which a grip portion and a stimulation portion are formed; - a drive device (32) arranged in the housing (21) and configured to repeatedly provide a drive movement; - a pressure chamber (4, 16) arranged in the housing (21) to provide a variable pressure field and surrounded at least in sections by a chamber wall; - a displaceable chamber wall portion (1) which forms a portion of the chamber wall and is coupled to the drive device (32) such that the displaceable chamber wall portion (1) can be repeatedly displaced between different wall positions in response to the drive movement coupled thereto, whereby a chamber volume of the pressure chamber (4, 16) is repeatedly increased and decreased to generate the variable pressure field;- a housing opening (22) arranged in the stimulation section and in fluid communication with the pressure chamber (4, 16) such that the variable pressure field generated by the pressure chamber (4, 16) can be released via the housing opening (22) in the form of negative and positive pressures; - a sealing device assigned to the housing opening (22) and arranged in the region of the stimulation section and configured to seal the pressure chamber (4, 16) from the environment during operation; and - a battery device (28) configured to provide drive energy for the drive device (32); wherein in the drive device (32), a coil device through which an electric current flows during operation is arranged movably in an associated stationary permanent magnetic field (3) and is coupled to the displaceable chamber wall section (1) to transmit the drive movement.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in thata chamber volume of the pressure chamber (4, 16) is at most approximately 0.2 l.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the housing opening (22) has a diameter of at least about 5 mm and at most about 50 mm.

4. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the drive device (32) is designed to generate a low-frequency pneumatic pressure alternating field with an alternating frequency of approximately 0.5 Hz to approximately 150 Hz when the pressure chamber (4, 16) is sealed.

5. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized ge - indicates that the drive device (32) is designed to generate a pneumatic pressure alternating field with a pressure difference between a lowest negative pressure and a highest positive pressure of approximately 20 mbar to approximately 600 mbar when the pressure chamber (4, 16) is sealed.

6. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that indicatesin that the pressure chamber (4, 16) is arranged to alternately increase the chamber volume from a neutral position of the displaceable chamber wall section (1) by a volume change of approximately 1% to approximately 25% and to decrease it by a volume change of approximately 1% to approximately 25%.

7. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized ge - indicates that the displaceable chamber wall section (1) has a diameter of at least about 5 mm and at most about 60 mm.

8. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized marked in that the battery device (28) is arranged to provide a drive energy of alternating polarity for the coil device, so that the coil device is flowed through by an electric current of alternating polarity in order to displace the displaceable chamber wall section (1) around the neutral position.

9. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized ge - indicates that coil elements of the coil device are arranged to encompass permanent magnets (7) of the associated stationary permanent magnetic field (3).

10. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that a diameter of an area encompassed by the coil elements of the coil device with the permanent magnets corresponds to at least one diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section (1).

11. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the area diameter, which corresponds to the diameter of the coil device (2), and a diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section (1) are in a ratio of at least 0.

3.

12. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe area diameter, which corresponds to the diameter of the coil device (2), and a diameter of the displaceable chamber wall section (1) are in a ratio of at most 2.

13. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that first coil elements of the coil device are arranged on the displaceable chamber wall section (1).

14. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that second coil elements of the coil device are arranged on a coupling component which couples to the displaceable chamber wall section (1).

15. Device according to at least one of the preceding claims, characterized in that During operation, coil elements of the coil device formed separately from one another can be operated with different electrical currents.