Massager

Abstract

One aspect of the invention relates to a massage apparatus (10) comprising a massage head (1) and a control system (2), the massage head (1) being intended to be applied to a skin of a subject, wherein the control system is configured to control the massage head (1) such that a vacuum is generated in the massage head (1) according to a predetermined vacuum profile, wherein the predetermined vacuum profile corresponds to a vacuum function representing a temporal variation of the vacuum generated in the massage head (1), said vacuum function being continuous, periodic and non-constant. Figure to be published with the abstract: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Massage device TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The technical field of the invention is that of massage devices, and in particular massage devices comprising a massage head and a control system configured to control the massage head so that a vacuum is generated in the massage head. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Various massage techniques are used depending on the treatments to be carried out. Generally speaking, they all involve exerting constraints on the subject using pressure and / or movement and / or pinching phenomena.

[0003] There are many types of devices to facilitate the work of the masseur.

[0004] Among the various existing devices, it has been envisaged to use equipment using a simple mechanical action, for example by means of assemblies comprising balls or balls mounted on a support housing, possibly making it possible to distribute a treatment product (cream, liquid).

[0005] Massage devices have also been proposed which implement suction of the subject's skin. Such suction makes it possible to form a skin fold inside an internal chamber of a massage head. Mechanical actuators such as rollers or valves then exert actions, for example pressure or friction on this skin fold, to induce a predefined massage effect on the subject. Such a solution is for example described in the applicant's patent EP3151805.

[0006] Current massage devices allow suction of the skin in two modes:

[0007] - a so-called “continuous” mode, in which suction is generated by applying a constant depression in the massage head, the suction power being chosen by the operator; and

[0008] - a so-called “alternating” mode, comprising a succession of suctions and “releases” thanks to an alternating succession of high and low depressions in the massage head.

[0009] Figures 1a and 1b illustrate such modes known from the state of the art. In particular, [Fig. 1a] represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in continuous mode, and [Fig. 1b] represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in alternating mode.

[0010] In these two figures, the abscissa axis represents time and the ordinate axis represents the depression generated within the massage head. In continuous mode, re shown in [Fig. 1a], suction is applied to the subject's skin by generating a constant depression, equal to a fixed pressure value pF and possibly selected beforehand by the operator, in the massage head. In alternating mode, shown in [Fig. 1b], a succession of suctions and releases is applied to the subject's skin. For this, suction phases, during which a depression having a value pi is generated in the massage head, alternate with phases during which no depression is generated in the massage head (i.e. the surface of the subject's skin is at atmospheric pressure). In the example in [Fig. 1b], the duration ATi of the depression phases and the duration AT0 of the phases without depression are equal, but they can be different. Also, alternatively to the example in [Fig.lb], it is possible to alternate between depression phases equal to a first value pi for a duration ATi and depression phases equal to a second value p0 < pi for a duration AT0 (in the example of [Fig.lb], the low value p0 is equal to 0, but this is not obligatory). The values p0 and pi are fixed and can be selected beforehand by the operator (i.e. the subject who manipulates the massage device).

[0011] As mentioned above, these two modes allow the subject's skin to be sucked in to form a skin fold inside the massage head. Mechanical actuators of the massage head, for example flaps or rollers, then allow the skin thus sucked to be massaged.

[0012] These massage devices, although generally efficient and providing very satisfactory results, do not yet allow the movements of a practitioner to be effectively reproduced.

[0013] The invention improves the situation. Summary of the invention

[0014] The invention offers a solution to the problems mentioned above, by using the depression generated within the massage head not only to grasp the skin fold, but also to perform a massage function. The shape of the depression applied makes it possible to obtain specific physiological effects and in particular to reproduce manual massage gestures. In addition, the frequency of the depression applied makes it possible to access different depths of skin, and therefore offers massage possibilities superior to those of the devices of the state of the art, and superior to those of a practitioner.

[0015] One aspect of the invention thus relates to a massage apparatus comprising a massage head and a control system, the massage head being intended to be applied to the skin of a subject, in which the control system is configured to control the massage head so that a depression is generated in the massage head according to a predetermined depression profile, in which the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head, said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

[0016] By "depression" is meant a negative pressure difference in the massage head compared to atmospheric pressure. In other words, the pressure inside the massage head is lower than atmospheric pressure, and the depression represents the (negative) difference between the pressure in the massage head and atmospheric pressure. Such a depression has the effect, when the massage head is applied against the subject's skin (on the surface thereof), of sucking the skin inside the massage head. In existing devices, this suction makes it possible to form a skin fold, which can then be worked (massaged) using mechanical actuators, such as valves or rollers. According to the present invention, this suction is no longer constant, and allows a massage effect of the skin fold according to a pattern defined by the shape of the curve of the applied depression, i.e. the applied depression profile.

[0017] By "depression profile", it is understood the function (or, equivalently, its representative curve, i.e. its shape) representing the variations of the depression within the massage head over time. According to the present invention, this function is continuous (i.e. its representative curve does not exhibit a "drop-out", unlike, for example, the square wave function of [Fig. lb]), periodic (i.e. its representative curve repeats with a given period) and non-constant. By "non-constant", it is understood that the function takes at least two different values (in this case, an infinity of different values since it is continuous) during a period. It is possible for the function to exhibit plateaus or levels, i.e. the function may be constant over a time interval strictly shorter than the period, but it cannot be constant over the entire period (unlike the function shown in [Fig.[the] for example).

[0018] It is these variations over time of the depression function which make it possible to carry out a massage function by depression, which is not the case in existing devices (in which the massage function is only operated by the action of the rollers or the valves).

[0019] In particular, by varying the frequency (equal to the inverse of the period of the depression function) of the applied depression profile, it is thus possible to reach different depths of the skin, and therefore to obtain different physiological effects depending on the selected frequency.

[0020] In embodiments, the depression function is a piecewise affine function or a sinusoidal function.

[0021] By "piecewise affine", it is understood that the curve is composed of straight line segments (increasing, constant or decreasing). It is recalled that in the context of the present invention, the function must be continuous, therefore there cannot be any "jump" at the junctions between the straight line segments.

[0022] By "sinusoidal" is meant a function whose representative curve presents sinusoidal variations. This category of functions therefore includes sine functions, but also cosine functions.

[0023] In other embodiments, the depression function corresponds to a concatenation of at least two portions of at least two respective basis functions, the at least two basis functions being chosen from: constant functions, affine or piecewise affine functions, sinusoidal functions and sigmoid functions.

[0024] By "concatenation", it is understood that the function is defined over several portions of the period, and that it has different expressions depending on the portions of the period (more precisely, the function follows a different expression over at least two portions). For example, the function may be a portion of a sinusoidal function connected to a constant function, itself connected to a sinusoidal function (identical or distinct from the first sinusoidal function). Here again, it is recalled that the function must be continuous, so there cannot be any jump in value at the junctions between the portions.

[0025] In embodiments, the control system is further configured to:

[0026] - store a plurality of predefined vacuum profiles, each vacuum profile being associated with a respective physiological effect;

[0027] - receiving a selection of a physiological effect from among the plurality of physiological effects logical;

[0028] - select, from among the plurality of predefined depression profiles, the depression profile pressure associated with the selected physiological effect;

[0029] wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the selected depression profile.

[0030] By "physiological effect" is meant the effect generated by the depression on the skin tissue when the massage head is applied against the subject's skin. Examples of physiological effects are for example: firming, rolling, kneading, tapping, effleurage, friction, compression, smoothing, etc. A physiological effect can be a manual massage gesture (thus, the depression profile makes it possible to reproduce, by the depression thus generated, a manual massage gesture), but is not limited to this. A physiological effect designates more broadly the way in which the skin reacts to the application of a depression (in particular what depths of skin are reached by the depression).

[0031] Indeed, depending on the depression profile applied, and in particular its shape and its parameters (frequency, extreme values, etc.), different physiological effects can be obtained. Thus, it is possible to associate a given depression profile with a corresponding physiological effect. According to these embodiments, the operator can select the physiological effect that he wishes to obtain, and the control system, upon receiving this selection, retrieves the corresponding depression profile and controls the massage head to apply the depression profile associated with the physiological effect selected by the operator.

[0032] It is noted that in the present application, the operator designates the individual who manipulates the massage apparatus, and the subject designates the individual on which the massage head is applied. The operator and the subject may be the same individual or two different individuals.

[0033] In embodiments, wherein the control system is further configured to:

[0034] - receive a set of parameters, the set of parameters comprising:

[0035] a parameter relating to a minimum depression value;

[0036] a parameter relating to a maximum depression value; and

[0037] a parameter relating to a period or frequency of depression;

[0038] - generate a depression profile from the set of parameters received;

[0039] wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the generated depression profile.

[0040] According to these embodiments, the operator sets the desired parameters, sends them to the control system, which thus generates the associated depression profile.

[0041] By "parameter relating to a maximum (resp. minimum) depression value", is meant any parameter linked to a maximum (resp. minimum) value of the depression profile. Such a parameter may for example be the value itself, but this is not obligatory. For example, it is possible to define labels (very low, low, medium, high, very high) associated with different values, and the subject can select one of these classes.

[0042] It is understood that the massage device can be configured to operate in the two preceding modes. The operator can thus have the possibility, on the same massage device according to the invention, either to select a physiological effect, or to set the parameters himself to generate a depression profile according to the parameters that he has set. The operator also has the possibility, if he has selected a particular physiological effect, to modify certain parameters (for example, to reduce the maximum depression value if the subject feels discomfort or pain). The operator can also have the possibility of selecting not a physiological effect, but a depression profile from a plurality of depression profiles. pre-recorded.

[0043] The set of parameters may further comprise at least one of:

[0044] - a parameter relating to a cycle ratio, the cycle ratio corresponding to a relationship between:

[0045] a sum of a duration during which the depression function increases from the minimum value to the maximum value and a duration during which the depression function is equal to the maximum value; and

[0046] the period of depression;

[0047] - a parameter relating to a duration of a transition between a high plateau during in which the depression function is equal to the maximum value and a low plateau during which the depression function is equal to the minimum value, or between a low plateau and a high plateau;

[0048] - a parameter relating to a number of sinusoidal waves added to a plateau high ;

[0049] - a parameter relating to an amplitude of sinusoidal ripples added to a high plateau.

[0050] In these embodiments, the depression profile may have high and / or low plateaus. A high plateau corresponds to a portion of the curve “around” the maximum value, and a low plateau corresponds to a portion of the curve “around” the minimum value. By “around”, it is understood that the portion may be constant, or sinusoidal around the extreme value. Indeed, a plateau may not be constant, but may have oscillations. For example, the depression profile of [Fig.5b] has constant plateaus, and the depression profile of [Fig.5c] has sinusoidal “plateaus”.

[0051] Such depression profiles comprise a portion of curve connecting the minimum value to the maximum value (or vice versa), a high (or low) plateau, and a portion of curve connecting the maximum value to the minimum value (or vice versa). A “transition” corresponds to the portion of curve connecting the minimum value to the maximum value (or vice versa). For the sake of simplification, it is assumed that the duration of the rising transition (from a low plateau to a high plateau) and that the duration of the falling transition (from a high plateau to a low plateau) are the same, but this is not obligatory. By “parameter relating to a duration of a transition”, it is therefore understood a parameter making it possible to determine the duration of the transition (i.e. the time interval corresponding to the transition portion, which is therefore strictly less than the period T of the depression function.)

[0052] The “duty cycle” is here defined as the sum of the rise time from the minimum value to the maximum value and the duration of the high plateau during which the function has the maximum value, divided by the period. By “parameter relating to a cycle report" it is understood any parameter giving access to this value.

[0053] In embodiments, the depression function has a period between 0 Hz and 32 Hz.

[0054] This frequency range corresponds to the frequencies which produce the most interesting physiological effects in the context of a cosmetic treatment.

[0055] In particular, the period can be between 0 and 16 Hz. This frequency range allows access to the deeper layers of the skin.

[0056] In embodiments, the control system comprises a suction device connected to the massage head by a suction conduit configured to generate suction, said suction generating a depression in the massage head.

[0057] In embodiments, the control system is configured to store a set of vacuum sequences, each vacuum sequence corresponding to a respective cosmetic treatment and comprising at least two distinct vacuum profiles to be executed consecutively, each vacuum profile of the vacuum sequence corresponding to a phase of the cosmetic treatment.

[0058] By “depression sequence” is meant a sequence of depression profiles, possibly interspersed with constant or slotted depressions. Such a depression sequence allows a complete cosmetic treatment (for example a firming massage of the stomach). Each element of the sequence (different depression profiles, constant or slotted depressions) corresponds to a phase of the treatment (for example, preparation, kneading, massage, firming).

[0059] Another aspect of the invention relates to a cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage apparatus comprising a massage head and a control system, the massage head being intended to be applied to the skin of a subject, the method comprising:

[0060] - controlling, by the control system, the massage head so that a pressure is generated in the massage head according to a predetermined depression profile;

[0061] wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head, said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

[0062] The invention and its various applications will be better understood upon reading the following description and examining the accompanying figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0063] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the description, which can be read in conjunction with the figures. These figures are presented for information purposes only and in no way limit the invention.

[0064] [Fig. 1a] represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in the continuous mode of the state of the art.

[0065] [Fig.lb] represents the temporal evolution of the depression within the massage head in the alternating mode of the state of the art.

[0066] [Fig.2] represents a massage device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0067] [Fig. 3] represents a cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0068] [Fig.4] represents an example of a control module in one embodiment of the invention.

[0069] Figures 5a, 5b and 5c represent three examples of depression profiles according to the invention.

[0070] Figures 6a, 6b, 6c and 6d represent four other examples of depression profiles according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] [Fig. 2] schematically illustrates a massage device 10 according to one embodiment of the invention. The massage device 10 comprises a massage head 1 (also called a treatment head) intended to be applied against the skin of a subject and a control system 2. The control system 2 is configured to control the massage head 1 so that the massage head generates a vacuum.

[0072] For example, the control system 2 may be an electropneumatic system comprising a control module 21 and a suction device 22 connected to the control module 21, the suction device 22 being connected to the massage head 1 by a suction conduit 3. The suction device 22 comprises a suction means (not shown) configured to generate suction, such as a pump, thereby causing a vacuum within the massage head 1. The control module 21 may thus be configured to send to the suction device 22 a control signal comprising a given vacuum profile, and upon receipt of this control signal, the suction device 22 may be configured to generate suction to generate, in the massage head 1, a vacuum corresponding to the vacuum profile of the control signal.

[0073] Thus, the control system 2 makes it possible to control a depression within the massage head 1 according to a given depression profile. A depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head 1. In the context of the present invention, said function is continuous (and preferably of class C1, i.e. the function is continuous, differentiable and its derivative is continuous), periodic and non-constant. Examples of such depression profiles are provided in Figures 5a to 5c and Figures 6a to 6d, described in detail below. The depression profile may be provided to the control system 2 by a user interface 4, for example a set of buttons and / or a touch screen. For example, the user interface 4 may be connected to the control module 21, and the operator may select, via the user interface 4, a depression profile from a plurality of predefined depression profiles stored in the control module 21.

[0074] In embodiments, the control module 21 may store a plurality of predefined vacuum profiles. Each profile may be associated with a respective physiological effect (e.g., firming, palpate-roll, kneading, tapping, effleurage, friction, compression, smoothing, etc.). An operator may select, via the user interface 4, a vacuum profile from the plurality of stored vacuum profiles, or a desired physiological effect from the plurality of physiological effects associated with the stored vacuum profiles.

[0075] Alternatively or in addition, the operator can send to the control module 21, via the user interface 4, a set of parameters to generate a vacuum profile from these parameters. Upon receipt of these parameters, the vacuum profile can be generated within the control module 21, which then transmits to the suction device 22 a command to generate suction so that the vacuum generated in the massage head 1 follows the desired vacuum profile.

[0076] It is understood that the two embodiments above may be combined. For example, on a home screen of the user interface, the operator may be offered a choice between selecting a predefined depression profile and generating a depression profile from a set of parameters.

[0077] An example of a control module 21 is shown in [Fig.4].

[0078] In this example, the control module 21 comprises a memory 211 for storing instructions allowing the transmission of a command to the suction device 22 upon receipt of a corresponding instruction via the user interface 4, and possibly depression profiles, which may, depending on the embodiments, be associated with respective physiological effects as detailed below.

[0079] The control module 21 further comprises a circuit 212. This circuit 212 may be, for example, a processor capable of interpreting instructions in the form of a computer program, an electronic card whose steps of the method of the invention are described in the silicon, or even an electronic chip pro grammable like an FPGA chip (for “Field-Programmable Gate Array” in English).

[0080] The control module 21 comprises an input interface 213 for receiving an instruction relating to a vacuum profile or parameters relating to the vacuum to be applied, and an output interface 214 for providing a command to the suction device 22. As mentioned above, the control module 21 may be connected to a user interface 4 for receiving an instruction or vacuum parameters. Alternatively, the user interface may be integrated with the control module 21. In these embodiments, the control module 21 may comprise input devices such as a screen (possibly touch-sensitive), a keyboard, a set of buttons, a touchpad, a microphone coupled to a voice control module, etc.

[0081] Referring again to [Fig. 2], the massage head 1 may comprise a roller arranged in an internal chamber of the massage head, to perform massage movements (for example of the palpate-roll type). The suction duct 3 may be connected to the internal chamber so as to establish a vacuum therein. The internal chamber is intended to be applied against the skin of a subject to be massaged to form a skin fold. The suction device 22 is therefore intended to generate a vacuum of the ambient air to suck the skin of the subject (and form a skin fold). More generally, the massage head may comprise at least one mechanical actuator, for example one or more motorized rollers and / or one or more valves, to perform the massage of the skin previously sucked into the internal chamber of the massage head 1 by the control system 2.In embodiments, the operator may adjust certain parameters, for example the speed and / or direction of rotation of the rollers or the flapping frequency, via the user interface 4. .

[0082] As mentioned above, in the devices of the prior art, the depressions generated in the massage head 1 operate in two modes: a continuous mode (shown in [Fig. 1a]) and an alternating mode (shown in [Fig. 1b]). These two modes make it possible to form a skin fold, which can then be massaged via the mechanical actuators of the massage head 1.

[0083] With the depression profiles according to the present invention, the depression applied via the massage head 1 not only allows the skin to be lifted and thus the skin fold to be formed, as in the prior art, but it also contributes to massaging the skin, in the same way as mechanical actuators. This makes it possible to reproduce the manual gestures of a practitioner, or even to surpass them. Indeed, depending on the depression profiles applied, different depths of skin can be reached and massaged according to varying amplitudes, which allows for more targeted and more effective, but also more precise and more reproducible than a manual massage.

[0084] For example, by using a sinus-type depression profile, the capture of the skin fold is advantageously optimized to be carried out flexibly and proportionally to the action of the valve. Once the skin fold has been captured, depression profiles exhibiting oscillations make it possible to work on the elasticity, tone and / or firmness of the skin. The massage function generated by such depression profiles is thus much more advanced, effective and targeted than when it is carried out solely by the mechanical actuators of the massage head.

[0085] In the present invention, the variation of depression applied to the skin makes it possible to massage different layers of skin and to have access to different depths of skin. In other words, this variation of depression makes it possible to perform an additional massage function compared to the massage function of the mechanical actuators. It is thus possible to envisage a massage solely by depression (suction) effect, without mechanical actuators.

[0086] [Fig.3] represents a cosmetic treatment process implemented by a massage apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. The steps of [Fig. 3] can be implemented by the control system 2.

[0087] In one embodiment, during a step 310, parameters relating to a desired depression are received by the control system 2, for example via the user interface 4 (which may be connected or integrated with the control system 2). In step 320, a depression profile may be generated by the control system 2 (for example, by the control module 21) according to the parameters received in step 310.

[0088] In another embodiment, depression profiles are recorded in the control system 2 (for example in a memory of the control module 21). Each depression profile can be associated with a respective physiological effect. Thus, during a step 330, data relating to a physiological effect can be received by the control system 2. This data can be generated after receiving, via the user interface 4 (which can be connected or integrated with the control system 2), a selection of the physiological effect desired by the operator. For example, the data can be an identifier of the physiological effect among the plurality of physiological effects associated with the plurality of recorded depression profiles. In step 320, the control system can thus retrieve the depression profile corresponding to the selected physiological effect.

[0089] Alternatively, the operator can directly select the desired depression profile. In this case, during step 330, data for selecting a depression profile from among the plurality of depression profiles can be received, and during step 340, the control system can retrieve the selected depression profile.

[0090] As mentioned above, the above embodiments are not mutually exclusive: on the same massage device 10, the operator can choose whether he wants to generate a depression profile from parameters that he sets (steps 310, 320) or whether he wants to use a depression profile already recorded (steps 330, 340).

[0091] Once the depression profile has been generated (step 320) or retrieved (step 340), the control system can control (step 350) the massage head so that a depression is generated in the massage head according to said depression profile. For example, the control module 21 can control a suction in the suction device 22 so that the suction thus generated in the suction device generates a depression within the massage head 4 which follows the generated or retrieved depression profile.

[0092] It is noted that the depression actually generated in the massage head 4 may differ from the desired depression profile. For example, there may be losses at the suction duct 3 or the massage head 4, which cause the depression in the massage head not to follow exactly the desired depression profile. In this sense, it is understood that according to the present invention, the depression profile is a “theoretical” or “ideal” profile.

[0093] Examples of depression profiles are now presented.

[0094] Figure 5a represents a “sinus” type depression profile. The depression thus generated in the massage head is a function of the type: d ( t ) = A + Bsin( Ct ), where r represents time, and A, B, C are real coefficients.

[0095] The coefficients A, B, C can be predefined or selected by the operator.

[0096] For example, the operator can set different parameters, including:

[0097] - a maximum depression value Pmax;

[0098] - a minimum depression value Pmin;

[0099] - a period T or a frequency / = 1 / T of depression.

[0100] The depression profile can then be a function of the form:

[0102] The depression profile thus obtained has an oscillation of frequency f = 1 / T, between two extrema Pmin and Pmax.

[0103] It was surprisingly found, by carrying out tests in collaboration with expert massage practitioners, that such a depression profile had a pumping effect on the skin. By adjusting the frequency, it is possible to act on different depths of the skin, and therefore to obtain different physiological effects.

[0104] It is understood that a depression profile similar to that of [Fig.5a] can be obtained from other functions. For example, by concatenating two portions of sigmoid functions (S-curves), one increasing and the other decreasing, we obtain d(t) = a curve similar to the curve of a sine function over a period. By "concatenation", it is understood that the two portions of curves are connected (for example a first portion of increasing S-curve over an interval [0; T / 2] and a second portion of decreasing S-curve of the same amplitude as the increasing S-curve over an interval [T / 2; T]). The connection is made in such a way that the "concatenated" curve thus obtained is continuous (in the mathematical sense of the term).

[0105] Another example of a depression profile is shown in [Fig.5b].

[0106] [Fig.5b] represents a depression profile of the “S-curve” type. The depression thus generated in the massage head is a function of the type: SCurveUp{t) if 0 < t < Tsc Pmax if T SC - ! <? SC + PPmax SCurveDown(t-(Tsc+TPmax) ) if Tsc + TPmax^t <2Tsc + TPnwx Pmin if 2Tsc + TPmax <t<T

[0108] where f represents time, Pmin represents a minimum depression value, Pmax represents a maximum depression value, SCurveUp represents an increasing sigmoid function going from Pmin to Pmax, SCurveDown represents a decreasing sigmoid function going from Pmax to Pmin, Tsc corresponds to the transition duration (i.e. the duration of growth from a low plateau to a high plateau, or the duration of decrease from a high plateau to a low plateau), TPmax corresponds to the duration of a high plateau (i.e. the duration during which the depression is equal to the maximum power Pmax) and TPmin corresponds to the duration of a high plateau (i.e. the duration during which the depression is equal to the maximum power P^m). The above formula thus represents the variation of the depression over the time interval [ 0 ; 7 ] • The function can be then repeated to obtain a periodic function of period T = 2Tsc+TPltwx + TPinin.

[0109] In the example of Figure 5b, the TPmax duration of a high plateau is equal to the TPmin duration of a low plateau, but this is not obligatory.

[0110] The portion of the curve above is therefore the concatenation of an increasing sigmoid function for a time Tsc, of a constant high depression Pmax (high plateau) for a time T Pmax, of a decreasing sigmoid function for a time T sc and of a constant low depression Pmin (low plateau) for a time TPmin,

[0111] The curve in [Fig.5b] can be defined by the following “minimal” parameter set (i.e. comprising a minimal number of parameters allowing the depression profile to be completely defined):

[0112] - minimum depression value Pmin;

[0113] - maximum depression value Pmax;

[0114] - period T = 2Tsc + TPmax + TPmin or frequency f = 1 / T of the depression;

[0115] - TPmax duration of a high plateau; and

[0116] - duration of the transition (Tsc, which therefore corresponds to the duration of the portion of the S-curve).

[0117] Rather than fixing the transition duration, it is possible to fix a parameter, here called "transition parameter", corresponding to the percentage of the complete period T that the transition duration Tsc must represent. In other words, if S is the transition parameter (between 0% and 50%), the transition duration is: Tsc — S xT.

[0118] Optionally, the transition parameter may be a discrete variable taking a finite and predetermined number of values. For example, the transition parameter may correspond to the number of tens of percentage of the period T to which the transition duration Tsc corresponds. For example, if 5' = 4, this means that Tsc represents 40% of the complete period T, i.e. Tsc = 0.4 x T.

[0119] It is noted that the above transition parameter makes it possible, from the period T or the frequency f, to find the value of the transition duration Tsc. Any parameter thus making it possible to go back to the value of the transition duration T sc, generally called “parameter relating to the transition duration”, can be used.

[0120] Similarly, rather than defining the duration T Pmax of the high plateau, it is possible to define a parameter, here called "cycle ratio", which corresponds to the percentage of the complete period T that must represent the cumulative duration (Tsc + TPmax) of rise and of the high plateau. In other words, if RC is the cycle ratio (strictly between 0% and 100%), we have: RC = (Tsc + TPmax) / T.

[0121] It is noted that knowledge of T (or / ), TPmax (or RC) and Tsc (or S) makes it possible to determine the duration of a low plateau TPmin^ and therefore of all the variables which intervene in the equation above defining the curve of [Fig.5b].

[0122] It was surprisingly found, by carrying out tests in collaboration with expert massage practitioners, that such a depression profile had a "palpate-roll" effect. By adjusting the frequency, it is possible to act on different depths of the skin.

[0123] It is possible to add oscillations to the upper plateau of the depression profile in [Fig.5b]. The new depression profile thus obtained is shown in [Fig.5c],

[0124] Such a depression profile can be defined by a “minimal” parameter set comprising the minimal parameter set of the depression profile of [Fig.5b], as well as two parameters specific to the oscillation added on the upper plate:

[0125] - a discrete parameter Nosc corresponding to the number of oscillations on the high plate (in the example of [Fig.5c], this parameter is equal to 2); and

[0126] - a real parameter A corresponding to the amplitude of the oscillation.

[0127] For example, the oscillation may be a sine or cosine type function, the frequency is directly related to the number Nosc of oscillations on a high plateau. The amplitude A corresponds to the desired depression amplitude on the oscillation:

[0128]

[0129] with / = TPmax the frequency of the oscillations and Tosc = 1 / f the period oscillations. We have: / > f. I dare I

[0130] Thus, the curve shown in [Fig.5c] can be constructed by concatenating a portion of an increasing S-curve, a portion of the cosine (or sine) function above, and a portion of a decreasing S-curve. In other words, compared to [Fig.5b], the high plateau is replaced by a portion of a sinusoidal curve.

[0131] In embodiments, oscillations could be added to the low plates in addition to or instead of the high plates.

[0132] As previously, the connections between the portions of S-shaped curves (increasing and decreasing portions between the high and low plateaus) and the portions of sinusoidal functions representing the oscillations are made in such a way as to obtain continuity of the entire curve of the depression profile.

[0133] It was determined that the addition of oscillations on the high plates allows for a more effective palpate-roll type massage than with the depression profile of [Fig.5b], by adding a higher frequency massaging effect during the skinfold grips.

[0134] In the example of Figures 5b and 5c, high plateaus (possibly with oscillations) and low plateaus are connected by S-curves. It is noted that similar curves could be obtained from sine-type functions (or even other portions of increasing and decreasing functions) instead of S-curves.

[0135] The depression profiles of Figures 5a to 5c can therefore be seen as concatenations of portions of increasing curves and portions of decreasing curves (for example portions of S-shaped curves or portions of sinusoidal curves), possibly separated by high plateaus, on which it is possible to add oscillations.

[0136] Using S-shaped curves as increasing and decreasing curves, such depression profiles can be modeled, over a period T, by a function of the form:

[0137]

[0138]

[0139] d(t) = SCurveU p(t) ( P max - 4 ) + f-COS ( {tT sc )} SCurveDown(t - (Tsc + TPmax)) P x mm if 0 <t<Tsc $ SC - f < ^SC + TPmax if Tsc+ TPmax < / < 2TSC+TPmax If SC + ? pmax <7 For these depression profiles a minimal set of parameters which allows to ca Fully characterizing the curve may include:

[0140] - the minimum depression value Pmin;

[0141] - the maximum depression value Pmax;

[0142] - the period T or the frequency f of the depression;

[0143] - the duty cycle, which corresponds to the percentage of the complete period T that must represent the cumulative duration (Tsc + TPmax) of the climb and the high plateau;

[0144] - the transition parameter, corresponding to the percentage of the complete period T what the transition time Tsc should represent (i.e. the transition time between a high plateau and a low plateau or between a low plateau and a high plateau);

[0145] - the number of oscillations on the high plate; and

[0146] - the amplitude A of the oscillation.

[0147] For example, the minimum depression value Pmin may be a value between 0 and 660 mbar, and preferably between 0 and 120 mbar. In particular, the operator can select, via the user interface 4, the minimum depression value Pmin from a set of selectable minimum values, for example the values between 0 and 120 mbar, in steps of 30 mbar.

[0148] The maximum depression value Pmax may be a value between 0 and 660 mbar, and preferably between 90 and 300 mbar. In particular, the operator can select, via the user interface 4, the maximum depression value Pmax from a set of selectable maximum values, for example values between 90 and 300 mbar, in steps of 30 mbar.

[0149] The frequency may be between 0 Hz and 32 Hz, and preferably between 0.25 Hz and 16 Hz. In particular, the operator may select, via the user interface 4, a frequency value from a set of selectable frequencies, for example 0.25 Hz, 0.50 Hz, 0.75 Hz, 1 Hz, 2 Hz, 3 Hz, and all integer values up to 16 Hz.

[0150] The duty cycle ratio RC may be a number between 0% and 100%. In particular, the operator may select, via the user interface 4, a duty cycle value from a set of selectable values, for example 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% and 90%.

[0151] The transition parameter can take, for example, integer values between 1 and 5 that the operator can select via the user interface 4, representing the number of tens of percent of the complete period T that the transition duration Tsc represents.

[0152] The transition parameter makes it possible to control the time allocated to each portion of the curve (increasing or decreasing) between a high plateau (i.e. a high depression) and a low plateau (i.e. a low depression). The higher the transition parameter, the lower the total duration of a high plateau and a low plateau during a cycle (i.e. a period). In particular, if S — 5, there are no longer high and low plateaus, and, if no oscillation is added on the high plateaus, we find a "pseudo-sinusoidal" curve (concatenation of increasing and decreasing portions of sigmoids), having a shape "similar" to that of figure 5a. In the particular case where S = 5, the duty cycle is 50%.

[0153] The number of NOiC oscillations on the high plate can be an integer between 0 and 10 that the operator can select via the user interface 4.

[0154] The amplitude A of the oscillation can be a value between 0 mbar and Pmax. In particular, the operator can select, via the user interface 4, the value of the amplitude of the oscillation from a set of selectable values, for example the values between 0 mbar and Pmax in steps of 30 mbar.

[0155] Of course, all the above values are provided as examples and are in no way limiting of the invention.

[0156] It is understood that the preceding set of parameters, if it allows the depression curve to be completely characterized, is not unique. For example, as mentioned above, the transition parameter can be replaced by the duration Tsc of the transition, the cycle ratio can be replaced by the duration TPmax of a high plateau, the number of oscillations can be replaced by an oscillation frequency and the amplitude of the oscillation can be replaced by a percentage of the amplitude (Pniax~ Pmin) of the depression profile. Indeed, we have:

[0157] t =—x± y _ RC v ! T' Pmax 100 f ~ Wj-tOk+Ta.)

[0158] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, a plurality of vacuum profiles may be stored, for example in a memory of the control module 21, and the operator may select one of the vacuum profiles from the plurality of stored vacuum profiles.

[0159] In other embodiments, each depression profile is recorded in association with a respective physiological effect and the operator can select one of the recorded physiological effects. The control system 2 is then configured to generate suction such that the depression generated inside the massage head 1 follows the depression profile associated with the selected physiological effect.

[0160] In other embodiments, alternative or complementary to the previous ones, the operator can select the values of the parameters. In this case, the control module 21 constructs a depression profile according to the values of the parameters selected, and generates a suction so that the depression generated inside the massage head 1 follows the depression profile associated with the physiological effect se-

[0161]

[0162]

[0163]

[0164]

[0165]

[0166]

[0167]

[0168]

[0169]

[0170]

[0171]

[0172]

[0173]

[0174]

[0175] selected. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the depression profiles given above as examples. It extends to any periodic, continuous and non-constant depression profile. Other examples of depression profiles are thus represented in Figures 6a to 6d. The depression profile shown in [Fig.6a] corresponds to a so-called “double sine” profile, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function: a ( t J =----5--F- (---5---J Slll ( jr-1 ) + Asm ( — 14- (p ) where 7\ T2, A and 9 are four real parameters (Ti and T2 being strictly positive). This depression profile is a combination of an oscillation of frequency 1 / between two depression thresholds Pmin and Pmax, and an oscillation of frequency 1 / 77 of phase and amplitude A. The depression profile shown in [Fig.6b] corresponds to a so-called “frequency modulated sine” profile, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function: with : 7' « 0 <U<A r = / TT \ r^-(^=)0-Ar) if at<î <t where T,nin, Tinax, At are strictly positive real numbers (with Tmin < T max\ This depression profile corresponds to an oscillation of variable frequency 1 / T( Z ), between two depression thresholds Pmin and Pmax. T (t) varies between a low period Tmin and a high period Tmax according to a continuous and piecewise affine function, having a rise time and a fall time both equal to Ar. The depression profile shown in [Fig.6c] corresponds to a so-called “amplitude-modulated sine” profile, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function: d(t) = Ang + A (t) siîl (1) with : if 0 <t<^T where Amin, Amax, At are strictly positive real numbers (with Ami„ < Am(lx). This profile of A(z) = depression corresponds to an oscillation of frequency 1 / T with a variable amplitude A( f) and an offset A^vg, A{t) varies between a low amplitude value Amin and a high amplitude value Amax according to a continuous and piecewise affine function, having a rise time and a fall time both equal to Ar.

[0176] It is also possible to define a sinus depression profile modulated in amplitude and frequency, the temporal variations of which can be represented by the function: [° 17 7] = A^ + A^sin^-^

[0178] with Aavg, defined as above. This depression profile associates the frequency-modulated sine profile of Figure 6b and the amplitude-modulated sine profile of Figure 6c. The depression profile thus obtained has an oscillation of variable frequency 1 / T ( t) with a variable amplitude A( t) and an offset AOvg.

[0179] The depression profile shown in Figure 6d corresponds to a so-called “ramp” profile, the temporal variations of which over a period T + T2, with 7 i and T2 two strictly positive real parameters, can be represented by the function:

[0180] if 0 <t<t. mm \ ) i tp -p ■ \ , si Tl <t<tl + t2

[0181] This profile corresponds to a piecewise affine function composed of a succession of connections between a portion of increasing straight line between a low depression Pmin and a high depression Pmax with a rise time and a portion of increasing straight line between a high depression Pmax and a low depression Pmin with a fall time T2.

[0182] Other depression profiles may be used. In addition, it is possible to define cosmetic treatment protocols comprising a succession of depression profiles as defined above. For example, in the context of firming the ventral area, it is possible to define a depression sequence comprising:

[0183] - a first phase (for a time ïj) of preparation during which a de constant pressure is applied; then

[0184] - a second phase (for a time ^2) of kneading during which a profile of plateau depression (similar to that of [Fig.5b]) is applied; then

[0185] - a third phase (during a massage time tA during which a profile of sinusoidal depression (similar to that in [Fig.5a]) is applied; then

[0186] - a final phase (for a time ^4) of firming during which a constant depression is applied.

[0187] Of course, other combinations are possible, depending on the cosmetic treatment and the area targeted.

[0188] Furthermore, in an embodiment compatible with the preceding embodiments, the massage head may comprise a valve for holding the skin fold and performing a periodic opening and closing movement (it being understood that the closing is not complete, since the skin fold is held in the valve). In other words, the valve performs a periodic movement of frequency 7 £ during which the wings of the valve oscillate between a first position cor corresponding to a minimum opening angle between the wings, and a second position corresponding to a maximum opening angle between the wings.

[0189] In these embodiments, the frequency of the depression trajectory may be a multiple of the oscillation frequency of the valve. In other words, / = KXJ , with / the frequency of the depression trajectory, fel the frequency of the valve, and K a non-zero natural integer. For example, K may be between 1 and 5. Alternatively, the frequency of the depression path can be a fraction of the oscillation frequency of the valve, for example / = 0.5 X f cl .

[0190] Furthermore, in these embodiments, it is possible to synchronize the applied depression and the movement of the valve. This means that, during a period of the movement of the valve:

[0191] the start of a trajectory period corresponds to the start of the period of movement of the valve; and

[0192] the end of the Kth trajectory period corresponds to the end of the period of movement of the valve.

[0193] For example, for K = 1, and for a sinusoidal trajectory, each maximum of the depression profile can be synchronized to a maximum opening position of the valve, and each minimum of the depression profile can be synchronized to a minimum opening position of the valve.

[0194] For K = 2 and a sinusoidal trajectory, one maximum out of two of the depression profile can be synchronized to a maximum opening position of the valve, and one minimum out of two of the depression profile can be synchronized to a minimum opening position of the valve.

[0195] It is possible to offset the oscillation of the valve by a predetermined time value, for example to start a depression profile at a certain stage of the valve movement cycle.

[0196] These embodiments make it possible to adjust the depression relative to the opening of the valve, in order to minimize pain for the subject. For example, when the valve is closed, it is preferable not to apply the maximum depression value, to avoid over-stressing the skin and therefore causing pain in the subject.

Claims

Claims

1. A massage apparatus (10) comprising a massage head (1) and a control system (2), the massage head (1) being intended to be applied to a subject's skin, wherein the control system (2) is configured to control (350) the massage head (1) so that a depression is generated in the massage head (1) according to a predetermined depression profile, wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head (1), said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

2. A massage apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the depression function is a piecewise affine function or a sinusoidal function.

3. Massage apparatus (10) according to claim 1, wherein the depression function corresponds to a concatenation of at least two portions of at least two respective basic functions, the at least two basic functions being chosen from: constant functions, affine or piecewise affine functions, sinusoidal functions and sigmoid functions.

4. A massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is further configured to: - store a plurality of predefined depression profiles, each depression profile being associated with a respective physiological effect; - receive (330) a selection of a physiological effect from the plurality of physiological effects; - select (340), from the plurality of predefined depression profiles, the depression profile associated with the selected physiological effect; wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the selected depression profile.

5. Massage apparatus (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control system is further configured to: - receive (310) a set of parameters, the set of pa- meters including: • a parameter relating to a minimum depression value; • a parameter relating to a maximum depression value; and • a parameter relating to a period or frequency of depression; generating (320) a depression profile from the set of parameters received; wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to the generated depression profile.

6. Massage apparatus (10) according to claim 5, wherein the set of parameters further comprises at least one of: - a parameter relating to a duty cycle ratio, the duty cycle ratio corresponding to a ratio between: • a sum of a duration during which the depression function increases from the minimum value to the maximum value and a duration during which the depression function is equal to the maximum value; and • the depression period; - a parameter relating to a duration of a transition between a high plateau during which the depression function is equal to the maximum value and a low plateau during which the depression function is equal to the minimum value, or between a low plateau and a high plateau; - a parameter relating to a number of sinusoidal waves added to a high plateau; - a parameter relating to an amplitude of sinusoidal waves added to a high plateau.

7. Massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vacuum function has a period between 0 Hz and 32 Hz.

8. Massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system comprises a suction device connected to the massage head (1) by a suction conduit configured to generate suction, said suction generating a depression in the massage head.

9. A massage apparatus (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control system is configured to store a set of vacuum sequences, each vacuum sequence corresponding to a respective cosmetic treatment and comprising at least two distinct vacuum profiles to be executed consecutively, each vacuum profile of the vacuum sequence corresponding to a phase of the cosmetic treatment.

10. Cosmetic treatment method implemented by a massage device comprising a massage head (1) and a control system, the massage head (1) being intended to be applied to the skin of a subject, the method comprising: - controlling (350), by the control system, the massage head so that a depression is generated in the massage head (1) according to a predetermined depression profile; wherein the predetermined depression profile corresponds to a depression function representing a temporal variation of the depression generated in the massage head (1), said depression function being continuous, periodic and non-constant.

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