Device for training the pelvic floor muscles

Abstract

The training device (9), which is provided for training parts of the body of a female user, more particularly the hip, gluteal or pelvic muscles or the arm muscles, comprises: - a compressive-force receiver (1), which can be deformed under the action of muscle force and which has a pressure chamber (10) containing a gel-like, liquid or gaseous medium; - a base (2), which can be supported on an underlying surface and is used to hold the compressive-force receiver (1); and - at least one measuring sensor (51), such as a pressure sensor or a force sensor, with which the medium is in contact and by means of which the pressure of the medium in the pressure chamber (10) can be measured. According to the invention: the compressive-force receiver (1) comprises an elastically deformable first receiver part (11) and a second receiver part (12), which are interlockingly, frictionally or integrally interconnected; the first receiver part (11) comprises a wall system (15), which is used to receive the muscle force and which delimits the pressure chamber (10) at the top of the pressure chamber and laterally; the second receiver part (12) comprises a bottom floor (16), which delimits the pressure chamber (10) at the bottom of the pressure chamber and which adjoins the wall system (15); the second receiver part (12) preferably has a lower elasticity than the first receiver part (11) parallel to the direction in which the muscle force acts; and the second receiver part (12) is releasably, interlockingly or frictionally, or integrally connected to the base (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device for training the pelvic floor muscles and, if applicable, other parts of the body, such as the arm muscles and hand muscles.

[0002] The pelvic floor is the lower boundary of the lesser pelvis. It consists of three layers of muscle with narrow openings for the intestines, urinary tract, and reproductive organs. From the inside out, these are: the pelvic diaphragm, the largest and strongest layer; the urogenital diaphragm, a trapezoidal muscular plate covered on both sides by strong connective tissue; and the outer sphincter layer, which comprises various muscles as the external pelvic floor musculature. The three muscle layers are arranged fan-like on top of each other and are interconnected at several points via muscle fibers and fascia.

[0003] The described muscular system is therefore of central importance for the body's condition and numerous bodily functions, as well as posture and well-being, and should always be kept in good condition through physical exercise.

[0004] US2010262049A1 discloses a pelvic floor training device for stimulating the pelvic floor muscles, comprising a tubular pressure force transducer that is deformable within the crotch of a human body by activation of the pelvic floor muscle system. The tubular pressure force transducer consists of an elastic cylinder filled with a fluid and sealed at both ends.

[0005] Forces exerted on the tubular force transducer can be detected by a sensor, allowing monitoring of the current training and training progress. A pressure sensor is integrated into one end face of the tubular force transducer, which detects muscle contraction.

[0006] A disadvantage of this device is that the tubular force transducer, which is inserted into a seat, hardly allows for optimal training of the user's body part. The body part to be trained only makes contact with the tubular force transducer over a relatively small area, which means that, on the one hand, only a small portion of the muscles are in contact with the transducer and thus trained, and on the other hand, unwanted pressure points can occur.

[0007] Another disadvantage is that the training device is not easy to clean and may not meet the hygiene requirements of users. Liquid and dirt can potentially spread along the tubular force transducer and penetrate into subsequent cracks or crevices, and can only be removed with considerable effort and after disassembling the tubular force transducer.

[0008] US2015273270A1 discloses a pelvic floor training device with a seat that can be connected to a force transducer, which has a longitudinally extending hollow body with an interior space. The interior space of the hollow body contains a medium suitable for transmitting pressure exerted on the force transducer by a user. The hollow body comprises a first fixed end piece and a second fixed end piece, which are spaced apart from each other by a spacer and connected by a flexible outer shell that defines a closed interior space. The interior space contains the medium, the spacer, and a pressure or force measuring device by which pressure exerted on the medium by the outer shell can be measured. This training device is complex to manufacture and offers little adaptability to the user's needs.The two end pieces must be manufactured separately, requiring considerable effort, and then joined to the outer shell in a correspondingly complex process to create a tight seal. Following this, the spacer element must be inserted into the interior, the interior filled with the medium, and then sealed tightly.

[0009] US2007142191A1 discloses a pelvic floor training device with a modular force transducer that can be inserted into a bowl-shaped body and is held in such a way that the force transducer, with its conical end piece, can only expand in one direction. The conical end piece acts via a pressure distributor and a pressure conductor on a pressure sensor, which emits an electrical signal that depends on the pressure resulting from a force being applied to the force transducer.

[0010] This pelvic floor training device comprises several parts that interact with each other and therefore must always be in correct contact. Consequently, several parts must be manufactured separately, incurring corresponding costs, and then connected. The pressure transducer is inserted into the cup-shaped body, after which the cup-shaped body is inserted into a base plate. A housing containing the pressure sensor is then connected to the base plate. The pressure sensor must be positioned so that it is correctly brought into contact with the conical end of the pressure transducer via the pressure distributor and pressure conductor.

[0011] The force transmission from the user's body to the pressure sensor thus occurs in stages and indirectly via several interacting components. Pressure is transferred to the cup-shaped body and from there to the pressure force transducer, which, through deformation and deflection of its conical end piece, transmits the pressure via the pressure distributor and pressure conductor to the pressure sensor. The multiple pressure transitions from one device component to another result not only in a complex system but also in imprecise measurement. The force required to deform the cup-shaped body is not detected by the pressure sensor. Therefore, the deflection of the conical end piece of the pressure force transducer is not proportional to the force exerted by the user on the cup-shaped body. It should also be noted that the flexible pressure force transducer may expand in other directions as well.

[0012] The described device components, which serve to transmit power, are typically also subject to wear and tear, which is why the training device is prone to needing repair.

[0013] Furthermore, the device requires considerable cleaning effort, especially if dirt accumulates between the components. In this case, the training device must be disassembled, and the individual parts cleaned. Dirt particles can collect inside the bowl-shaped body and are not easy to remove.

[0014] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of creating an improved training device for pelvic floor training.

[0015] The training device should have a simple design so that it can be manufactured cost-effectively and operates largely without wear and tear, thus requiring no maintenance.

[0016] The training equipment should be able to be completely cleaned with minimal effort and in the shortest possible time, ensuring consistently hygienic training conditions. Particularly in training centers, the equipment should be usable by several people in short intervals, who can then clean it within seconds of leaving.

[0017] The training device should work precisely so that training results can be recorded accurately and without distortion.

[0018] The training device is designed to allow improved interaction between the body part being trained and the force sensor, enabling effective training of all elements of the muscular system. Therefore, the device should facilitate better training results.

[0019] The training device should ideally be individually adjustable to the needs of each user. It should be adaptable to users with significantly different body dimensions using simple measures.

[0020] Painful pressure points should not occur even after prolonged training with the device. The device should therefore provide a comfortable training experience to encourage intensive use.

[0021] The training device should be improved in terms of functionality and aesthetics. Furthermore, the training device should be manufactured and put into operation more efficiently.

[0022] The training device should also be suitable for training other parts of the body, especially for training the arm and hand muscles.

[0023] This problem can be solved with a training device according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in further claims.

[0024] The training device, which is intended for training body parts of a user, in particular the hip muscles, gluteal or pelvic muscles or the arm muscles, comprises at least one pressure force transducer deformable under the influence of muscle force with a pressure chamber in which a gel-like, liquid or gaseous medium is provided, a base which on the one hand can be supported on a surface and which on the other hand serves to hold the pressure force transducer, and at least one measuring sensor, such as a pressure sensor or a force sensor, against which the medium is located and by means of which the pressure of the medium in the pressure chamber can be measured.

[0025] According to the invention, the pressure force transducer comprises an elastically deformable first transducer part and a second transducer part, which are connected to each other in a form-fit, force-fit, or integral manner; the first transducer part comprises a wall system for receiving the muscle force, which limits the pressure chamber at the top and at least partially laterally; the second transducer part comprises a base that closes off the bottom of the pressure chamber and connects to the wall system; the second transducer part preferably has a lower elasticity than the first transducer part parallel to the direction in which the muscle force acts; and the second transducer part is detachably, form-fit, force-fit, or integrally connected to the base.

[0026] The pressure force transducer can be manufactured in one piece or consist of two or more device parts that correspond to or differ from the first and second transducer parts. A first device part can, for example, simply serve as a cover for the pressure chamber, which is essentially located within the second device part. The second device part can therefore form the second transducer part and at least a portion of the first transducer part. The definition of the first and second transducer parts thus refers to the completed pressure force transducer after the device parts have been assembled. These parts are preferably joined and bonded using a positive locking mechanism, such as with springs and grooves, and at this stage, they practically form a single unit.

[0027] The first receiving element essentially comprises the wall system, which has two side walls serving to receive the muscle force. These side walls run upwards towards each other and are integrally connected at their upper ends. The opposing side walls of the wall system, which are subjected to muscle force, can run towards each other at the front and / or rear and are preferably integrally connected. Alternatively, the two side walls can be integrally connected at the front to a front wall and / or at the rear to a rear wall. This allows for advantageous shapes, such as round or elliptical shapes, which are preferably adapted to the user's anatomy.

[0028] The wall system can be advantageously adapted in terms of dimensions and elasticity to the anatomy or the body part to be trained by the user, resulting in improved interaction between the muscles and the force transducer and thus improved training results. With the training device according to the invention, an elastic and large-area coupling of the force transducer to the user's body part is possible, so that even mothers who experience pain in the pelvic floor muscles after childbirth could perform pelvic floor training with the device. Painful pressure points can therefore be largely avoided, even after prolonged training.

[0029] The training device according to the invention has the advantage that the contraction or relaxation, also referred to as relaxation, of individual muscles or muscle groups can be detected more precisely and preferably also selectively, so that biofeedback training is possible for these muscles using the training device according to the invention, in which the contraction behavior of the muscles is measured, and subsequently these muscles are strengthened through training, and their responsiveness is improved.

[0030] The training device according to the invention is suitable not only for the pelvic floor muscles but also for training the trunk muscles. The trunk muscles form a supportive corset and comprise the deep back muscles on the back of the torso and the deep, transverse abdominal muscles on the front. All of these muscle groups can be effectively influenced by the training device, with the effect on the pelvic floor muscles being the most intensive.

[0031] The training device can also be used to strengthen the hand and arm muscles by compressing the pressure transducer through contraction of one hand at a time or by applying pressure with both hands.

[0032] In preferred configurations, the wall system is individually adapted to the user, manufactured specifically for that user, or custom-made. For this purpose, for example, a buttock impression of the user can be taken and measured. The measured dimensions can then be taken into account identically or at least approximately during the manufacture of the wall system. Furthermore, it can be provided that the elasticity of the side walls is not uniform, but rather adapted to the needs of the user. These curves can be defined taking into account the specific needs of a user or a group of users.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, the first receiving element can be provided with design elements, preferably made of metal or plastic, which are arranged in outwardly open or closed receiving openings, pockets, loops, recesses, or receiving grooves on the receiving element. Reinforcing elements can thus be integrated into the training device, in particular the force transducer or the base, or attached to its exterior.

[0034] The dimensions of the first sensor element or the wall system, and any necessary local or point stiffening, can therefore be adjusted by the user as desired. Furthermore, auxiliary chambers can be provided, which are guided by a medium.

[0035] In preferred embodiments, the wall system comprises at least one partition wall that divides the pressure chamber into sub-chambers separated from each other along the longitudinal axis or a transverse axis. The sub-chambers can be connected to each other by an opening in the partition wall, allowing them to be filled together with a medium through a transfer opening. Alternatively, the two or more sub-chambers can be completely separated from each other and each filled separately with the medium through its own transfer opening. If the sub-chambers are separated from each other by the partition wall perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the user can influence either the first or the second sub-chamber, which preferably differ in elasticity, by shifting their seating position along the longitudinal axis. For example, to warm up or after fatigue, the seating position is shifted to influence the more elastic sub-chamber.

[0036] In preferred embodiments, two or more force transducers with the same or different compressibilities can be arranged, preferably coaxially, one behind the other and preferably connected to each other by a common base. The user can then select the force transducer suitable for the training.

[0037] The pressure force transducer and its associated or connectable base can be manufactured with an advantageous design featuring a continuous surface free of cracks and gaps. This allows for advantageous designs that are exceptionally beneficial in terms of aesthetics, training, and maintenance.

[0038] The training device, designed accordingly, can therefore be thoroughly cleaned with minimal effort, so that it is immediately available for further use after use. Cracks, crevices, or uneven surfaces are advantageously avoided, preventing the accumulation of dirt and liquids.

[0039] The second sensor component serves both to securely hold the wall system and to provide a stable connection to the base. The second sensor component and / or the base can also be used to adjust the height of the pressure force sensor. Furthermore, the second sensor component and / or the base can be additionally reinforced.

[0040] For example, the second receiving part and / or the base are provided with outwardly closed or outwardly open openings or recesses, such as receiving grooves, into which reinforcing elements or spacers can be inserted to stabilize the second receiving part and / or the base or to adjust its vertical extension. The second receiving part and / or the base are therefore preferably elastically expandable in the vertical direction, allowing height adjustment over a relatively wide range and advantageously adapting the training device to users with different body dimensions.

[0041] The pressure chamber of the pressure force transducer can optionally be filled with a suitable medium. For this purpose, the wall system or the underside of the second transducer part has a transfer opening, preferably equipped with an access valve, through which the medium can be introduced into the pressure chamber.

[0042] In preferred embodiments, it is provided that a) that the sensor, or b) that the sensor with the associated electronic circuit and a communication module for wireless or wired communication, or c) that the sensor with the associated electronic circuit and a communication module for wireless or wired communication and with a battery, or d) that the sensor with the associated electronic circuit and a communication module for wireless or wired communication, with a battery and with a charging coil The electronic circuitry can be located inside or outside the pressure chamber. It can be arranged on a rigid or flexible printed circuit board.

[0043] If the sensor and any associated components are located inside the pressure chamber, the sensor is in direct or indirect contact with the medium within the pressure chamber. If the sensor and any associated components are located outside the pressure chamber, the sensor is in direct or indirect contact with the medium outside the pressure chamber, which is routed out of the pressure chamber through a connecting channel, a connecting line, a duct, and / or a hose, which may have any cross-section. Associated components include, for example, an associated electronic circuit, such as an amplifier circuit, and / or a communication module for wireless or wired communication, and / or power supply modules such as charging coils, batteries, accumulators, power supplies, or the like.

[0044] The wall system or the base of the second sensor part preferably has at least one connection opening through which connecting wires to the sensor inside or at the edge of the pressure chamber are led, or from which the connecting channel, pipe, or hose to the sensor outside the pressure chamber is led. The at least one transfer opening, through which a medium was previously introduced into the pressure chamber, can also be used as a connection opening. Alternatively, a valve with an integrated pressure sensor can be inserted into the transfer opening.

[0045] If the sensor, electronic circuit, and accumulator are arranged within the pressure chamber, the accumulator is preferably charged via the charging coil, which can be inductively coupled to a charger.

[0046] In preferred embodiments, at least one temperature sensor is further provided, by means of which the temperature of the medium and / or the temperature of the wall system is measured. Taking the temperature measurement into account, the measurement results of the muscle force measurement can subsequently be corrected.

[0047] In particularly preferred embodiments, the base is designed as a seat or is integrally or detachably connected to a seat element by a form-fitting connection. The seat or seat element is preferably symmetrical and preferably has the shape of a saddle.

[0048] Preferably, the seat element has a receiving channel along its central axis, which is straight or inclined, and into which the base with the pressure force sensor can be inserted. Preferably, the base is held in the receiving channel in a form-fitting, slidable, and lockable manner.

[0049] The materials used to manufacture the training device are selected so that the individual parts of the device possess the required strength or elasticity. The first and second receiver parts are made of the same material or of different materials. Similarly, the second receiver part and the base are made of the same material or of different materials. If different materials are used, the elasticity of the wall system and the strength of the second receiver part and the base can be adapted through material selection, dimensioning, and / or the insertion of reinforcing elements. If the same materials are used, the elasticity of the wall system and the strength of the second receiver part and the base are determined through dimensioning and / or the insertion of reinforcing elements.

[0050] The first receiving part or a corresponding device part is preferably made of a first elastomer, such as silicone or rubber. The second receiving part is preferably made of a second elastomer, such as silicone, rubber, or plastic (such as polycarbonate). The base is preferably made of a third elastomer, such as silicone, rubber, or polycarbonate.

[0051] The training device according to the invention can be used by women or men, with female users benefiting particularly from the training.

[0052] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings. These show: Fig. 1a a training device 9 with a pressure force transducer 1, which is manufactured in one piece or is assembled from a first device part 111 and a second device part 121 and which has a first transducer part 11 and a second transducer part 12, which enclose a pressure chamber and with a base 2, the underside of which rests on a surface and the top of which is connected to the second transducer part 12; Fig. 1b the training device 9 of Fig. 1a in a further preferred embodiment; Fig. 1c the training device 9 of Fig. 1a in exploded view with a section through the second device part 121, which comprises the second sensor part 12 and part of the first sensor part 11; Fig. 1d the training device 9 of Fig. 1a in a vertical section along its longitudinal axis; Fig. 2 the training device 9 of Fig. 1d with a reinforcing element 4 which is inserted into a longitudinal opening 120 of the second receiver part 12; Fig. 3 shows the training device of Fig. 1a in a further preferred embodiment with a base 2 which has been extended to form a seat; Fig. 3b the training device 9 of Fig. 3a in exploded view; Fig. 4 the training device 9 of Fig. 1a with a quarter section showing a connection opening 102 in the second sensor part 12, which is connected by a connecting tube 50 to measuring sensors 51, 52; Fig. 5a a cross-section through the training device 9 of Fig. 1a , which in this preferred embodiment has a pressure chamber which is divided into two sub-chambers 10A, 10B by a partition 154; Fig. 5b the pressure force transducer 1 of the training device 9 of Fig. 5a with a longitudinal section of the front and a cross-section on the back of the first device part 111 with connecting lines 50A, 50B, which are connected on one side to the associated sub-chamber 10A, 10B and on the other side to an associated measuring sensor 51A, 51B; Fig. 6a a training device 9 with two pressure force transducers 1X, 1Y e.g. according to Fig. 2 , which are connected to each other in a coaxial orientation; Fig. 6b the training device of Fig. 5a in a vertical longitudinal section; Fig. 7a a training device 9 according to the invention. Fig. 1a with a preferably designed base 2 which can be positively anchored in a seat element 3; Fig. 7b the seat element 3 of Fig. 7a in a vertical longitudinal section; and Fig. 7c the training device 9 according to the invention inserted into the seat element 3 of Fig. 7a .

[0053] Fig. 1a Figure 9 shows a training device according to the invention, which is suitable for training parts of a user's body, in particular the hip muscles, gluteal or pelvic muscles or the arm muscles.

[0054] The training device 9 comprises a pressure force transducer 1 that is deformable under the influence of muscle force and is manufactured in one piece or assembled from a first device part 111 and a second device part 121. The pressure force transducer 1 comprises a first transducer part 11 and a second transducer part 12, the underside of which is connected to a base 2.

[0055] In Fig. 1a A first dashed line s1 is drawn along the force transducer 1, separating the first transducer part 11 and the second transducer part 12 of the force transducer 1. The second dashed line s2 shows the connecting line between the first device part 111 and the second device part 121, which form the force transducer 1 if it is not manufactured in one piece. The first dashed line s1 thus relates to the separation of parts of the force transducer 1 that have different functions and properties. The second dashed line s2, on the other hand, relates to the assembly or manufacturing of the force transducer 1, which is optionally manufactured in one piece or composed of several device parts. In a preferred embodiment, the dashed lines s1 and s2 can also be congruent. In this case, the transducer parts 11 and 12 correspond exactly to the device parts 111 and 121.

[0056] For example, how this Fig. 4 As shown, the first sensor part 11 and the second sensor part 12, optionally the first device part 111 and the second device part 112, enclose a pressure chamber 10 into which a gel-like, liquid, or gaseous medium is filled. It is shown that the first sensor part 11 and the second sensor part 12 are integrally connected in the region of the first dashed line s1. The second line s2 shows the connection line between the first and second device parts 111, 121, which are positively and frictionally connected by an adhesive.

[0057] A sensor 51 is provided for measuring the media pressure. It is located on the underside of the pressure chamber 10 and is connected wirelessly or via a wired connection, optionally by means of a measuring cable 99, to a computer system 90, such as a tablet computer or a mobile phone. The measurement data is recorded and evaluated on the computer system 90 so that feedback can be provided to the user. The sensor 51 is mounted on an electronic circuit board 55, which may also include a temperature sensor 52 for measuring the temperature of the medium.

[0058] The first sensor part 11 of the pressure force sensor 1, which is elastically deformable under the influence of the user's muscles, comprises a wall system 15 serving to absorb the muscle force, which limits the pressure chamber 10 at the top and laterally.

[0059] The second sensor part 12, which is positively and / or force-fit connected to the base 2, comprises a bottom 16 that defines the underside of the pressure chamber 10 and connects to the wall system 15 at the top. The second sensor part 12 preferably has a lower elasticity parallel to the direction in which the muscle force acts than the first sensor part 11.

[0060] Fig. 1a This shows that the training device 9 has a compact design and a surface free of grooves and crevices. The pressure force sensor 1 is not identifiable as such from the outside. The training device 9 can therefore be manufactured with an advantageous design and a shape optimally adapted to the user's anatomy. In addition, the training device 9 can be thoroughly cleaned within seconds, ensuring hygiene even with intensive use by multiple users.

[0061] Fig. 1a This shows that the force (arrow F) is applied particularly to the longer, opposing side walls 152 of the wall system 15. The first device part 111 is preferably made of a particularly elastic material and / or provided with a thin wall, so that the upper surface of the first receiver part 11 or of the wall system 15 adapts optimally to the user's anatomy and optimal contact with all muscle groups is always ensured.

[0062] Fig. 1b The training device shows 9 of Fig. 1a In a further preferred embodiment, the pressure force sensor 1 extends along a curve on its front side to the base 2. The pressure force sensor 1 can therefore be shaped as desired to achieve a desired aesthetic or functional effect or to adapt to the user's anatomy.

[0063] Fig. 1c The training device shows 9 of Fig. 1a The exploded view shows a section through the second device part 121, which comprises the second sensor part 12 and part of the first sensor part 11, which is covered by the first device part 111, forming the remaining part of the first sensor part 11. A pressure chamber 10 is enclosed by the interconnected first and second device parts 111, 121, which is accessible only through a transfer opening 101.

[0064] It is shown that the second device part 121 has a circumferential groove 1210 on its upper surface, which serves to receive a circumferential spring provided on the underside of the first device part 111. This results in a positive-locking connection, which is preferably sealed and secured by an adhesive. Of course, other types of connection, preferably with advantageous molded parts, can also be used.

[0065] A valve 6 is inserted into the transfer opening 101, through which the gaseous, liquid, or gel-like medium is introduced into the pressure chamber 10. Preferably, a valve 6 is used in which a measuring sensor or pressure sensor 51, suitable for measuring the medium pressure, is integrated. A pressure sensor 51 is also shown symbolically, which is provided within the pressure chamber 10 in direct contact with the medium, connected by a medium line outside the pressure chamber 10, or integrated in the valve 6.

[0066] In preferred embodiments, the pressure sensor 51, together with the associated electronics, preferably including at least one processor and a communication module such as a Bluetooth module, is integrated into the pressure chamber 10. The medium provided in the pressure chamber 10, for example an oil or gas, is compatible with the corresponding module. If, however, an interaction with the medium is to be excluded, the electronic module is optionally encapsulated.

[0067] The second device part 121 comprises a stable base 16 of the pressure chamber 10 and thus forms the second receiver part 12, which is hardly deformed by muscle force during training. The second receiver part 12, or the base 16 of the second device part 121, is provided on its underside with shaped elements 128 that can be positively connected to shaped elements 28 on the upper side of the base 2. The shaped elements 128, which are exemplarily designed as dovetails, can be inserted into the complementary shaped elements 28 of the base.

[0068] The first sensor part 11, or the wall system 15 of the pressure force sensor 1, is mounted on the base 16 of the second sensor part 12. The wall system 15 comprises the first device part 111 and parts of the second device part 121, in particular the side walls 152 of the wall system 15 designed to absorb muscle force, which are integrally formed on the base 16.

[0069] Due to the material properties and in particular the relatively small wall thickness of the side walls 152 compared to the thickness of the subfloor 16, the wall system 15 is relatively easily deformable, at least when muscle force is applied perpendicular to the side walls 152, so that it is essentially held in shape by the counter-pressure of the medium, which is preferably measured continuously.

[0070] Fig. 1c The figure further shows that the side walls 152 are provided with one or more receiving openings 110 into which design elements 41 can be inserted to reinforce, shape, or dimension the wall system 15. The design element 41 shown schematically can stabilize and / or widen the corresponding side wall 152.

[0071] The user can therefore easily adapt the training device 9 to her current needs. For example, at the beginning of a training period, a high degree of flexibility in the side walls 152 may be desirable. After the muscle system has strengthened due to intensive training, the user may prefer a wall system 15 with reduced flexibility, which can be achieved by inserting the design elements 41.

[0072] If the wall system 15 is too narrow at the start of the training session, design elements 41 can be used to increase the thickness or strength of the side walls 152. The design elements 41 can therefore be advantageously used to dimension the pressure force transducer 1.

[0073] In preferred embodiments, lockable receiving openings 110 are provided into which a medium, for example, the medium of the pressure chamber 10, can be introduced. The receiving openings 110 are designed as auxiliary chambers into which air can be injected, for example, by means of an air pump. The user can therefore pump air into the auxiliary chambers 110 and then release it through a valve 6 until the wall system 15 reaches the desired dimensions. Even with just one auxiliary chamber 110 or two symmetrically arranged auxiliary chambers 110, the dimensions of the wall system 15 can be significantly altered. It is particularly advantageous to provide an auxiliary chamber 110 in the first device part 111.A gaseous, liquid or gel-like medium can be introduced into the auxiliary chamber 110 via a transfer opening 1110, preferably equipped with a valve 6, in order to change the dimensions of the first device part 111 and to adapt the upper area of ​​the pressure force transducer 1 to the anatomy of the user.

[0074] In preferred embodiments, the pressure in at least one of the auxiliary chambers 110 can also be measured. This allows, on the one hand, the verification of the selected dimensions of the wall system 15. On the other hand, it is possible to measure different influences on the wall system 15 individually. In the auxiliary chamber 110, which is optionally provided in the first device part 111, forces acting vertically from above on the wall system 15 can be measured in particular. Measuring these vertically acting forces makes it possible to determine whether the user has assumed their usual position. In addition, the measurement and evaluation of forces acting laterally on the side walls 152 can be corrected taking into account the vertically acting forces. If a higher force is exerted on the pressure sensor from above, the pressure in the pressure chamber 10 can increase without any muscle force being exerted on the side walls 152.

[0075] The described possibilities for the design of the pressure force transducer 1 confirm further significant advantages of the invention.

[0076] Fig. 1d The training device shows 9 of Fig. 1a in a vertical section along its longitudinal axis with the valve 6 taken from the transfer opening 101.

[0077] Fig. 2 The training device shows 9 of Fig. 1d with the wall system 15, which has a front wall 151 and a rear wall 153 connected to each other by the side walls 152. It is shown that the front wall has a greater thickness than the side walls 152, which are somewhat thinner than the rear wall 153. Together, the front wall 151, the rear wall 153, and the side walls 152 form the wall system 15 in the form of a dome, which is closed off at the bottom by the base 16 of the second receiver part 12 or the second device part 121.

[0078] In the base 16, a reinforcing element 4 is inserted into a longitudinal opening 120 of the second sensor part 12. By inserting the rod-shaped reinforcing element 4, the stability of the second sensor part 12 and / or the base 16 can be significantly increased. By inserting one or more reinforcing elements 4 into the second sensor part 12 and / or the base 16, the pressure force sensor 1 can be raised accordingly. The reinforcing element 4 is provided on its rear side with a head 41, which stabilizes and optionally covers the rear wall 153. The head 41 is shown as a plate 41, which optionally connects to the rear wall 153, with dashed lines.

[0079] After the removal of the reinforcement element 4, the subfloor 16 and the rear wall 153 contract by the amount of the reinforcement element 4.

[0080] Fig. 2 Figure 15 further shows that the wall system 15 can have a transfer slot 1510 through which a mold element 100 (shown in dashed lines), which is optionally used to form the pressure chamber 10, can be removed after the manufacture of the pressure force transducer 1. For example, an inflated mold element 100 is used, which can be cut open and removed through the transfer slot 1510.

[0081] Fig. 3a The training device shows 9 of Fig. 1a In a further preferred embodiment, the base 2 is extended to form a seat. A stable connection between the pressure force transducer 1 and the base 2 is provided by the second sensor element 12. The base 2 has wings 25 that project far outwards on both sides, forming an elastic seating surface. A base plate 20 is provided below the base 2, ensuring a non-slip connection between the base 2 and the substrate. The base plate 20 is, for example, a rubber or plastic plate that is permanently or detachably connected to the base 2.

[0082] Fig. 3b The training device shows 9 of Fig. 1a in exploded view.

[0083] Fig. 4 , which was already referred to above, shows the training device 9 of Fig. 1a after a quarter section looking at a connection opening 102 in the second sensor part 12, which is connected by a connecting pipe 50 with measuring sensors 51, 52. Instead of a connecting pipe 50, a connecting channel can also be provided, which is formed in the pressure force sensor 1, e.g. in the base 16.

[0084] The sensors 51, 52 can be arranged on a circuit board 55, which also houses other electronic components and, optionally, a rechargeable battery or a power supply. For example, a transmitter module is provided, by means of which measured values ​​are wirelessly transmitted to the computer system 90. For example, a Bluetooth connection is automatically established between the training device 9 and the computer system 90.

[0085] As this is in Fig. 4 As shown, the base 2 can be flush with the underside of the force transducer 1 or can partially overlap it. In an optional embodiment, the base 2 covers the subfloor 16 and part of the wall system 15 with a lip 21. Alternatively or additionally, the subfloor can also cover the front and / or back of the force transducer 1 with a wall element 22. These optional elements allow the force transducer 1 to be positively locked and / or stabilized. The force transducer 1 can therefore only be positively locked to the base 2 in this way. The part of the base 2 shown in the sectional view, as well as the optionally added parts 21 and 22, are shown with the same hatching.

[0086] Fig. 5a shows a cross-section through training device 9 of Fig. 1a , which in this preferred embodiment has a pressure chamber divided into two sub-chambers 10A, 10B by an intermediate wall 154. The two sub-chambers 10A, 10B can be connected to each other by an opening in the intermediate wall 154 or completely separated from each other. The intermediate wall 154 stabilizes the pressure force transducer 1 with respect to forces acting vertically from above, without reducing the elasticity of the pressure force transducer 1 with respect to laterally acting forces.

[0087] Fig. 5b shows the pressure force sensor 1 of the training device 9 of Fig. 5a with a longitudinal section in the rear section and with a cross-section in the front section of the first device part 111. It is shown that connecting lines 50A, 50B are connected on the one hand to the associated sub-chamber 10A or 10B and on the other hand to an associated measuring sensor 51A, 51B. By means of the measuring sensors 51A, 51B, asymmetrical effects on the pressure force transducer 1 can be measured and corresponding corrective measures can be initiated.

[0088] The user may be advised to correct her posture and activate her muscles evenly.

[0089] Fig. 6a Figure 9 shows a training device with two pressure force transducers 1X, 1Y, e.g., according to Fig. 2 The force transducers 1X and 1Y are connected to each other in a coaxial configuration. They preferably have different properties, allowing training to be performed with either the first or the second transducer 1X or 1Y as needed. For example, the first transducer 1X may be more elastic than the second transducer 1Y. The two transducers 1X and 1Y may also have different dimensions or be adapted for training specific muscle groups.

[0090] Fig. 6b shows the training device of Fig. 5a in a vertical longitudinal section with the separate pressure chambers 10X, 10Y, which are equipped with a valve 6 and a sensor 51X, 51Y.

[0091] Fig. 7a Figure 9 shows a training device according to the invention. Fig. 1a with a preferably designed base 2, which can be positively anchored in a seat element 3. The seat element 3 has the shape of a saddle and is provided along its longitudinal axis with a receiving channel 30 into which the training device 9 is inserted and positioned accordingly. The base 2 of the force transducer 1 is provided on both sides with grooves 27 into which opposing ribs 37, provided in the receiving channel 30, can engage. An optional detent 38 is provided on the underside of the receiving channel 30, which corresponds to a detent on the underside of the base 2. As soon as the user sits on the force transducer 9, the detents 28, 38 engage and lock the force transducer in the respective position. By reducing the acting weight force, the force transducer 1 can be released from the detents 38, moved, and then locked again.Preferably, the recording channel 30 is inclined, so that the height of the training device 9 also changes when it is moved.

[0092] Fig. 7b shows seating element 3 of Fig. 7a in a vertical longitudinal section with a grid of 38 and a wing element 37.

[0093] Fig. 7c The training device 9 according to the invention is shown inserted into the seat element 3 of Fig. 7a .

[0094] In Fig. 7a It is further illustrated that the training device 9 is also suitable for training the hand or arm muscles. The pressure force transducer 1 can be compressed with one hand or between both hands to strengthen the hand or arm muscles.

Claims

1. Training device (9) for training the pelvic floor muscles and optionally other body parts of a user, comprising a compressive-force receiver (1), which is deformable under the impact of muscular force, with a pressure chamber (10) in which a gel-like, liquid, or gaseous medium is provided, a base (2) which on the one hand is supportable on a supporting surface and on the other hand serves for holding the compressive-force receiver (1), and at least one sensor (51) with which the pressure of the medium in the pressure chamber (10) is measurable, wherein the medium is in contact with the sensor (51), wherein the compressive-force receiver (1) comprises an elastically deformable first receiver part (11) and a second receiver part (12), which are connected form-fittingly, force-fittingly or integrally to one another; wherein the first receiver part (11) comprises a wall system (15), which serves to receive the muscular force, and which delimits the pressure chamber (10) at the top and at least partially laterally; wherein the second receiver part (12) comprises a bottom unit (16) which delimits the underside of the pressure chamber (10) and which adjoins the wall system (15); wherein the second receiver part (12) has a lower elasticity than the first receiver part (11); and wherein the second receiver part (12) is connected releasably, form-fittingly, or force-fittingly, or integrally to the base (2).

2. Training device (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the wall system (15) comprises two side walls (152) serving to receive the muscle force, which side walls (152) extend upwardly towards each other and are integrally connected to each other at the upper end.

3. Training device (1) according to claim 2, characterised in, a) that the two side walls (152), at the front side and / or at the rear side, extend towards each other and are connected to each other; or b) that the two side walls (152) are connected at the front to a front wall (153) and / or are connected at the rear to a rear wall (151).

4. Training device (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterised in that the two side walls (152) have a uniform or a non-uniform, continuously or gradually changing thickness over the entire area and / or that the wall system (15) is custom-made according to the requirements of the user.

5. Training device (1) according to one of claims 1-4, characterised in that the wall system (15) or the bottom unit (16) has at least one transfer opening (101), through which the medium is introducible into the pressure chamber (10).

6. Training device (1) according to one of the claims 1-5, characterised in, a) that the sensor (51), or b) that the sensor (51) with the associated electronic circuit and a communication module for wireless or wired communication, or c) that the sensor (51) with the associated electronic circuit and a communication module for wireless or wired communication and with an accumulator, or d) that the sensor (51) with the associated electronic circuit and a communication module for wireless or wired communication, with a rechargeable battery and with a charging coil, is arranged outside or inside the pressure chamber (10).

7. Training device (1) according to one of the claims 1-6, characterised in that the sensor (51), and possibly device parts associated therewith, is arranged inside the pressure chamber (10) and is in direct or indirect contact with the medium inside the pressure chamber (10); or that the sensor (51), and possibly device parts associated therewith, is arranged outside the pressure chamber (10) and is outside the pressure chamber (10) in direct or indirect contact with the medium, which is conveyed through a connecting channel or through a connecting hose or a connecting tube (50, 50A, 50B) to the sensor (51; 51A, 51B) outside the pressure chamber (10), wherein the wall system (15) or the bottom unit (16) has at least one connection opening or a connecting channel (102) through which connection wires are led to the sensor (51) or to the associated electronic circuit inside the pressure chamber (10).

8. Training device (1) according to one of the claims 1-7, characterised in, that the wall system (15) comprises at least one intermediate wall (154) by which the pressure chamber (10) is divided into sub chambers (10A, 10B) which are interconnected by an opening through which the medium can pass and which are jointly fillable with the medium through a transfer opening (101; 202); or that the wall system (15) has at least one intermediate wall (154) by means of which the pressure chamber (10) is divided into sub chambers (10A, 10B) which are separated from one another and are fillable with the medium separately each through a transfer opening (101; 102).

9. Training device (1) according to one of claims 1-8, characterised in that the first receiver part (11) has at least one receptacle opening (110), which is closed towards the outside, or a receptacle opening (110) which is open towards the outside, into which at least one structuring element (41) is insertable, by means of which the wall system (15) is modifiable with regard to dimensioning and / or strength.

10. Training device (1) according to one of claims 1-9, characterised in that the second receiver part (12) has at least one receptacle opening (120), which is closed towards the outside, or a receptacle opening (120), which is open towards the outside, into which at least one reinforcing element (4) is insertable, in order to reinforce the second receiver part (12) or in order to adjust the height of the compressive-force receiver (1).

11. Training device (1) according to one of claims 1-10, characterised in that at least two compressive-force receivers (1A, 1B), which have the same compressibility or different compressibilities, are provided.

12. Training device (1) according to one of claims 1-11, characterised in that the base (2) is designed as a seat or that the base (2) is connected in one piece or form-fittingly detachable to a seat element (3).

13. Training device (1) according to claim 12, characterised in that the seat element (3) has a receiver channel (30) along its central axis, which extends straight or inclined, and into which the base (2) with the compressive-force receiver (1) is insertable, and in that the base (2) is held form-fittingly, displaceably and lockably in the receiver channel (30).

14. Training device (1) according to one of claims 1-13, characterised in that the first receiver part (11) and the second receiver part (12) are made of the same materials or of different materials and / or that the second receiver part (12) and the base (2) are made of the same material or of different materials.

15. Training device (1) according to one of the claims 1-14, characterised in that, that the first receiver part (11) is made of a first elastomer, and / or that the second receiver part (12) is made of a second elastomer, and / or that the base (2) is made of a third elastomer.

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