Tattoo cartridges and tattoo devices

Abstract

Disclosed is a tattoo cartridge in which a needle assembly can vibrate at a first frequency relative to a housing assembly and simultaneously vibrate at a higher second frequency with one or more nodes occurring at one or more nodal points or nodal regions along the needle assembly. The housing assembly is connected to the needle assembly by a connection assembly that is substantially attached to the needle assembly at one or more of the one or more nodal points or nodal regions.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to tattoo needle cartridges, tattoo devices, and methods of using and manufacturing the same. [Background technology]

[0002] Tattoo needles typically have a stainless steel needle array attached (e.g., soldered) to a stainless steel needle shaft, which may be cylindrical to accommodate a circular needle array pattern, or flat to accommodate a linear needle array pattern, for example.

[0003] Tattoo cartridges typically have a housing assembly that houses a needle assembly including tattoo needles attached to a PVC needle bar. Typically, the tattoo needles may protrude from a distal end of the housing assembly to facilitate tattooing, and the needle bar protrudes from a proximal end of the housing assembly for connection to a tattoo machine ("tattoo gun").

[0004] When the tattoo cartridge is connected to the tattoo machine, the needle bar is coupled to a vibrator in the tattoo machine, such that vibrations generated by the tattoo machine cause the needle assembly to vibrate longitudinally (along its (longitudinal) axis) relative to the housing at a low frequency (approximately 50-150 Hz) with an amplitude of a few millimeters, causing the needle array to penetrate the skin down to the level of the dermis and deposit the ink, e.g., permanently. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The inventors believe that there is still room for improvement in tattoo cartridges and tattoo devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect, there is provided a tattoo device comprising: a tattoo cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; a tattoo machine configured to vibrate the tattoo assembly relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; Equipped with the needle assembly is connected to the housing assembly by the connection assembly such that the needle assembly can vibrate relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency; The needle assembly is configured such that an acoustic standing wave can be generated along the needle assembly in response to being vibrated (by the tattoo machine) at a second, higher frequency, and the connection assembly is attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodes or nodal regions of the acoustic standing wave.

[0007] According to one aspect, there is provided a tattoo cartridge for use with a tattoo machine, the tattoo cartridge including one or more oscillators configured to vibrate a needle assembly of the tattoo cartridge at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency (when the tattoo cartridge is connected to the tattoo machine), the tattoo cartridge comprising: a housing assembly; a needle assembly connected to the housing assembly by a connecting assembly so as to be capable of vibrating relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency; Equipped with The needle assembly is configured such that an acoustic standing wave can be generated along the needle assembly in response to being vibrated at the second frequency, and the connection assembly is attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodal points or nodal regions of the acoustic standing wave.

[0008] According to one aspect, there is provided a tattoo machine comprising: a cartridge connector configured to receive a tattoo cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; one or more vibrators configured to vibrate a needle assembly of a tattoo cartridge connected to the cartridge connector at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; Equipped with.

[0009] According to one aspect, a tattoo cartridge is provided, the tattoo cartridge comprising: a housing assembly; a needle assembly connected to the housing assembly by a connecting assembly so as to be capable of vibrating relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency; The needle assembly is configured to vibrate at a higher second frequency having one or more nodes occurring at one or more node points or node regions along the needle assembly, and the connection assembly is attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more of the one or more node points or node regions.

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a tattoo cartridge for applying a tattoo. In embodiments, the tattoo cartridge includes a needle assembly extending along a longitudinal axis between a first (proximal) end and a second (distal) end. In embodiments, the first end is configured to couple to a tattoo machine, and the second end is a tip for tattooing. In embodiments, the tattoo cartridge includes a housing assembly that houses the needle assembly.

[0011] In embodiments, the housing assembly is connected to the needle assembly by the connection assembly so that the needle assembly can vibrate (reciprocate) longitudinally (along its longitudinal axis) relative to the housing assembly at a first relatively low frequency (e.g., 1-1000 Hz, e.g., 50-150 Hz), e.g., so that the tip of the needle assembly (protruding from the distal end of the housing assembly) can penetrate skin to apply a tattoo. The tattoo cartridge, in embodiments, is removably connectable (at its proximal end) to a tattoo machine, e.g., so that when the tattoo cartridge is connected to the tattoo machine, the first (proximal) end of the needle assembly couples to the tattoo machine and the tattoo machine can induce a low frequency longitudinal vibration (reciprocation) in the needle assembly.

[0012] Tattoo cartridges of embodiments of the present invention are further optimized to efficiently transmit higher frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or greater, e.g., ultrasonic) longitudinal vibrations (acoustic waves) along the needle assembly. This is facilitated in embodiments of the present invention by a needle assembly configured such that longitudinal vibrations (vibrations) of a second, higher frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or greater, e.g., ultrasonic) can be simultaneously induced (by a tattoo machine) in the needle assembly (i.e., simultaneously at a lower, first frequency) at the nodal points (i.e., amplitude minima) of the higher frequency vibrations (acoustic standing waves) occurring at nodal points or nodal regions along the axis of the needle assembly (or at multiple nodal points or nodal regions along the needle assembly axis). Thus, needle assemblies of embodiments of the present invention are configured such that high frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or greater, e.g., ultrasonic) acoustic standing waves can be induced in the needle assembly. A connecting assembly (only) is then attached to the needle assembly (only) at the nodal point(s) or nodal region(s) of the second, higher frequency vibrations (acoustic standing waves). Thus, the only element that is fixed to the needle assembly so that it cannot move longitudinally relative to the needle assembly may be fixed to the needle assembly at the (respective) nodal point or nodal region.

[0013] Applicants have discovered that by inducing high frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or greater, e.g., ultrasonic) longitudinal vibrations (vibrations) in a tattoo needle (concurrently with lower frequency (e.g., 1 kHz or less) longitudinal vibrations), the insertion force required to penetrate the skin layer can be reduced, thereby reducing the trauma and pain sensation that may occur when applying a tattoo. However, the inventors have discovered that conventional tattoo cartridge designs tend to strongly dampen such high frequency vibrations (vibrations), such that driving one end of the needle assembly at a high frequency tends not to produce high frequency vibrations (vibrations) sufficient to reduce the trauma or pain sensation that occurs at the other end, the tip, of the needle assembly.

[0014] The inventors have found that by limiting the (longitudinal fixed) attachment points to the needle assembly to the nodal points of high frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or higher, e.g., ultrasonic) longitudinal vibrations (acoustic standing waves), it is possible to minimize attenuation of high frequency vibrations resulting from, for example, interactions between the housing assembly and the needle assembly, and thus optimize transmission of high frequency vibrations (acoustic waves) along the needle assembly. As will be described in more detail below, in the case of cartridge-type tattoo devices, this can promote the reduction of trauma and pain associated with high frequency vibrations (vibrations).

[0015] It will therefore be appreciated that the present invention provides an improved tattoo cartridge and tattoo device.

[0016] A needle assembly may have only one node (of the acoustic standing wave) or multiple (e.g., two) nodes at different longitudinal locations (nodes) along the needle axis. For example, a needle assembly may have a half-wave design with one node or a full-wave design with two nodes. In embodiments, the needle assembly is configured such that antinodes (i.e., amplitude maxima) occur at the first (proximal) end and the second (distal) tip of the needle assembly, and one or more nodes occur between the first (proximal) end and the second (distal) tip. Correspondingly, a connection assembly may be attached to the needle assembly at only one node or node region, or at multiple different node or node regions.

[0017] The connection assembly may be or include a resilient member.

[0018] The tattoo cartridge may be configured so that the needle assembly is longitudinally movable relative to the housing assembly between at least a first (retracted) position in which the housing assembly covers the tip of the needle assembly and a second (extended) position in which the tip of the needle assembly is exposed (protruding from the distal end of the housing assembly). The housing assembly may be connected to the needle assembly via a resilient member such that when the needle assembly moves from the first position to or toward the second position, the resilient member provides a restoring force that acts to restore the position of the needle assembly to or toward the first position.

[0019] The tattoo cartridge may be configured such that the needle assembly is biased to a first (retracted) position when the tattoo cartridge is not connected to a tattoo machine. The tattoo cartridge may be configured such that the needle assembly moves from the first (retracted) position to an intermediate position (between the first and second positions) when the tattoo cartridge is connected to a tattoo machine. Connecting the tattoo cartridge to a tattoo machine may impart a prestrain to the elastic member. The prestrain may provide the elastic member with a greater restoring force than would be possible without the prestrain, thereby improving mechanical and / or (ultrasonic) acoustic coupling with a high-frequency (e.g., ultrasonic) transducer of the tattoo machine. The prestrain distance (the distance between the first and intermediate positions) may be 1 to 6 mm, for example, approximately 2 mm. The prestrain distance may be user adjustable.

[0020] The elastic member may comprise a spring. In an embodiment, the elastic member is impermeable. The elastic member may be an impermeable membrane, for example made of rubber, plastic, or silicone. The elastic member (e.g., membrane) may be a substantially frustoconical member. In an embodiment, the elastic member is a silicone membrane having a wall thickness of at least 0.3 mm, for example at least 0.4 mm, for example at least 0.5 mm. The elastic member (e.g., membrane) may optionally have one or more reinforcing features, for example in the form of one or more ribs or gussets.

[0021] The resilient member may be (directly) attached to the needle assembly (substantially at) the nodal point or nodal area (of the one or more nodal points or nodal areas). The needle assembly may have a surface, e.g., a flange or shoulder, configured to retain (one end of) the resilient member at the nodal point or nodal area.

[0022] Alternatively, the connection assembly may have a first member disposed (substantially) at the node or node region (of the one or more nodes or node regions), and the resilient member may be attached (e.g., directly) to the first member. The first member may be integrally formed with the needle assembly, or may be formed separately and attached (longitudinally secured) to the needle assembly at the node or node region. The first member may be a substantially tubular member, such as a grommet or collar, and may, for example, surround (and be attached to) the needle assembly (at the node or node region). The first member may be made of metal, plastic, or other suitable material. The first member may have a surface, such as a flange or shoulder, configured to retain (one end of) the resilient member.

[0023] The housing assembly may have a substantially tubular shell and a cap. The shell may (coaxially) surround the needle assembly. The shell may be closed at a (proximal) end by the cap. The resilient member may be attached to the cap.

[0024] A first (e.g., proximal) end of the elastic member may be attached (longitudinally fixed) to (the cap of) the housing assembly, and a second (e.g., distal) end of the elastic member may be attached (longitudinally fixed) to the first member or the needle assembly.

[0025] The housing assembly may have a tip. The shell may be closed at its (distal) end by the tip. The tip may be selected from a number of different tip types, each tip type configured to accommodate a different type of tattoo needle.

[0026] The first member is sized (radially) to engage an inner surface of the (shell of) the housing assembly such that the needle assembly is held coaxially with the (shell of) the housing assembly.

[0027] The tattoo cartridge may have one or more second members sized (radially) to engage the inner surface of the housing assembly (shell) so that the needle assembly is held coaxially with the housing assembly (shell). The second members may be tubular bushings that surround the needle assembly and / or the first member.

[0028] The needle assembly may have (or be formed of) metal along (substantially) its entire length (from the first (proximal) end to the second (distal) tip).

[0029] According to one aspect, a tattoo cartridge is provided, the tattoo cartridge comprising: a needle assembly extending from a first end configured to couple to a tattoo machine to a second tip; The needle assembly has metal along substantially its entire length.

[0030] As discussed above, tattoo cartridges in accordance with embodiments of the present invention are optimized to efficiently transmit high frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or greater, e.g., ultrasonic) longitudinal vibrations (acoustic waves) along the needle assembly. This is facilitated in embodiments of the present invention by the needle assembly having metal (e.g., stainless steel) along substantially its entire length, as opposed to, for example, conventional tattoo cartridge designs in which the needle assembly typically has a stainless steel tattoo needle and a PVC needle bar. In embodiments, the arrangement is such that the high frequency (e.g., 5 kHz or greater, e.g., ultrasonic) longitudinal vibrations (acoustic waves) can propagate through the metal along most or all of the longitudinal length of the needle assembly (from the first end to the second tip).

[0031] The inventors have discovered that forming (substantially) the entire length of the needle assembly from a metal such as stainless steel significantly improves the transmission of high frequency longitudinal vibrations (acoustic waves) along the needle assembly, improving acoustic coupling of the needle assembly to the high frequency (e.g., ultrasonic) transducer of the tattoo machine. As will be described in more detail below, in the case of cartridge-type tattoo devices, this can help reduce the trauma and pain associated with high frequency vibrations (vibrations).

[0032] These aspects and embodiments may, and in embodiments do, include one or more, and in embodiments all, of the features of other aspects and embodiments described herein, as appropriate. For example, a tattoo cartridge may have a housing assembly connected to a metallic needle assembly (only) at a nodal point(s) or nodal region(s) (of an acoustic standing wave).

[0033] The metal of the needle assembly can be any suitable metal (including elements, alloys, compounds, etc.). The same metal (type and / or composition) may be used along the entire length of the needle assembly, or different metals (e.g., types and / or compositions) may be used. In embodiments, the metal is stainless steel, titanium, nickel titanium (nitinol), or aluminum.

[0034] The needle assembly may include a tattoo needle and a needle bar. The tattoo needle and needle bar may be (entirely) made of metal. The tattoo needle and needle bar may be made of the same or different metals (e.g., type and / or composition). In embodiments, the tattoo needle is made of stainless steel, titanium, nickel titanium (nitinol), or aluminum, and the needle bar is made of stainless steel, titanium, nickel titanium (nitinol), or aluminum.

[0035] The tattoo needle may extend along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second (distal) tip of the needle assembly. The tattoo needle may have a (metallic) needle array attached (at the second (distal) tip) to a (metallic) shaft. The needle array may have one or more needle tips arranged, for example, in a circular or flat configuration. Correspondingly, the tattoo needle shaft may be substantially cylindrical or flat. The tip of the needle assembly (of the tattoo needle) may be able to protrude from the distal end of the housing assembly to perform the tattoo.

[0036] The needle bar may extend along the longitudinal axis between the first (proximal) end and the second end of the needle assembly. The first (metallic) end of the needle assembly (of the needle bar) may be configured to couple (directly) to an interface of the tattoo machine. The first (metallic) end of the needle assembly (of the needle bar) may protrude from the proximal end of the housing assembly for coupling to the tattoo machine ("tattoo gun"). The needle bar may be substantially cylindrical.

[0037] The tattoo needle and needle bar may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the tattoo needle and needle bar may be separately formed and attached to one another. The second end of the needle bar may be attached to the first end of the tattoo needle. The tattoo needle and needle bar may be attached to one another by any suitable method, such as using a fastener (e.g., a collet), welding (e.g., laser welding), adhesive (e.g., epoxy), or any combination thereof.

[0038] One of the first end of the tattoo needle and the second end of the needle bar may have a cavity, and the other of the first end of the tattoo needle and the second end of the needle bar may be received within (and attached to) the cavity.

[0039] Cavities may be formed in the needle bar and may be configured to accept different types of tattoo needle shafts, for example, the cavities may be shaped to accept both cylindrical and flat tattoo needle shafts.

[0040] A needle assembly (e.g., made of metal) may have a nodal region that has a greater mass per unit (longitudinal) length than other regions of the needle assembly, e.g., regions on either side of the nodal region, e.g., the shaft region of the needle and / or needle bar. The nodal region may have a larger diameter than other regions. The needle assembly may be configured such that a nodal point (of the one or more nodal points) occurs within the (heavier) nodal region. The shaft region may be at a first end of the needle bar, and the nodal region may be at a second end of the needle bar. A cavity may be formed in the nodal region. A connecting assembly may be attached to the needle assembly at the nodal region. For example, a resilient member may be attached (directly) to the nodal region. The (needle bar of the) needle assembly may have a surface, e.g., a flange or shoulder, configured to hold (one end of) the resilient member at the nodal region.

[0041] The length of the needle assembly (from the first end to the second end) may be between 10 and 100 mm, for example about 50 mm.

[0042] The tattoo cartridge may be / may be removably connected to a tattoo machine. The tattoo machine may have a cartridge connector configured to (removably) connect to a housing assembly of the tattoo cartridge. Correspondingly, the housing assembly may have a feature, such as a flange or shoulder, configured to removably connect to the cartridge connector.

[0043] In an embodiment, the tattoo machine has a first oscillator configured to oscillate (reciprocate) the needle assembly at a (said) first frequency, and a second oscillator configured to simultaneously oscillate (vibrate) the needle assembly at a (said) higher second frequency.

[0044] One aspect provides a tattoo device, the tattoo device comprising: The tattoo cartridge described above; 1. A tattoo machine comprising: a first oscillator configured to oscillate (reciprocate) the needle assembly at the first frequency; a second oscillator configured to simultaneously vibrate (oscillate) the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; and Including tattoo machines and It is equipped with:

[0045] The second oscillator may be configured to vibrate (oscillate) the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency such that one or more nodal points or nodal regions occur.

[0046] One aspect provides a tattoo device, the tattoo device comprising: a tattoo cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; a tattoo machine comprising a first oscillator configured to vibrate (longitudinally) a needle assembly (relative to a housing assembly) at a first frequency, and a second oscillator configured to simultaneously vibrate (longitudinally) the needle assembly (relative to the housing assembly) at a second, higher frequency to generate one or more nodal points at one or more nodal points or nodal regions along the needle assembly; Equipped with The housing assembly is connected to the needle assembly by a connection assembly attached to the needle assembly at (substantially) one or more of the one or more nodal points or nodal regions (of the second higher frequency vibration).

[0047] The tattoo cartridge may be / may be removably connected to a tattoo machine.

[0048] These aspects and embodiments may, and in embodiments do, include one or more, and in embodiments all, of the features of other aspects and embodiments described herein, as appropriate.

[0049] The low frequency (longitudinal) vibration (reciprocating motion) (induced in the needle assembly by the first oscillator) may have a frequency (i.e., first frequency) of 1 kHz or less, for example, 1-1000 Hz, for example, 5-250 Hz, for example, 10-150 Hz, for example, 50-150 Hz. The low frequency (longitudinal) vibration (induced in the needle assembly by the first oscillator) may have an amplitude ("stroke") of 0.1-10 mm, for example, 1-6 mm, for example, 3-4 mm. The amplitude ("stroke") may be user adjustable.

[0050] The first oscillator may comprise (i) a coil or pair of coils, (ii) a rotary oscillator, (iii) a pneumatic oscillator, or (iv) a fluid-driven oscillator.

[0051] The second high-frequency (longitudinal) vibration (vibration) (induced in the needle assembly by the second transducer) may have a frequency (i.e., a second, higher frequency) of 5 kHz or less, for example, 5-200 kHz, for example, 5-100 kHz, for example, 10-100 kHz, for example, 20-100 kHz, for example, 20-75 kHz, for example, 25-75 kHz, for example, about 50 kHz. The second higher frequency may be an ultrasonic frequency, for example, 20 kHz or more. The second higher frequency should be, and in embodiments is, a resonant frequency of the needle assembly. The second higher frequency should be, and in embodiments is, selected to generate an acoustic standing wave along the needle assembly. The second higher frequency may be selected to be a resonant frequency of both the needle assembly and the second transducer. The second higher frequency (longitudinal) vibration (induced in the needle assembly by the second transducer) may have a (maximum) amplitude of 0.1-50 μm and / or 2 μm or less.

[0052] The second (higher frequency) oscillator (e.g., transducer) may have one or more vibrational materials, such as piezo ceramic or piezo crystal materials, and may have one or more electrodes configured such that application of one or more (alternating) voltages (e.g., by a voltage supply of the oscillator) causes the vibrational material(s) to vibrate.

[0053] The first transducer and / or the second transducer can be configured to vibrate at a frequency controlled by an operator.

[0054] The first transducer and / or the second transducer may be coupled to (the needle bar of) the needle assembly by, for example, welding, adhesive, screwing, a press fit, a snap fit, a bayonet fit, or other suitable connection.

[0055] The first oscillator may oscillate (reciprocate) the second oscillator (relative to the housing). Alternatively, the tattoo machine may have a flexible coupling, the first oscillator and the second oscillator may be configured to oscillate the flexible coupling, and a first (proximal) end of the (needle bar of the) needle assembly may be coupled to the flexible coupling (when the tattoo cartridge is connected to the tattoo machine).

[0056] The first (metallic) end of the (needle bar of) the needle assembly may be rounded, and the tattoo machine may have a complementary (e.g., metallic) socket configured to receive the rounded end and thereby couple the first transducer and / or the second transducer to the needle assembly.

[0057] One aspect provides a tattoo device, the tattoo device comprising: a tattoo cartridge having a needle assembly extending from a first end to a second pointed end; a tattoo machine having at least one oscillator configured to vibrate the needle assembly; Equipped with A first end of the needle assembly is rounded, and the tattoo machine has a complementary socket configured to receive the rounded end of the needle assembly to couple at least one transducer to the needle assembly.

[0058] These aspects and embodiments may, and in embodiments do, include one or more, and in embodiments all, of the features of other aspects and embodiments described herein, as appropriate.

[0059] In another aspect, a method of operating a tattoo device as described above is provided, the method including connecting a tattoo cartridge to a tattoo machine.

[0060] The method may include using a tattoo device to apply the tattoo.

[0061] Another aspect provides a non-therapeutic method of applying a tattoo, the method comprising applying a tattoo using a tattoo cartridge or tattoo device as described above.

[0062] In another aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing the tattoo cartridge described above, the method including attaching a connection assembly to a needle assembly substantially at one or more nodal points or nodal regions.

[0063] The needle assembly may comprise (or be formed from) metal (along substantially its entire longitudinal length).

[0064] These aspects and embodiments may, and in embodiments do, include one or more, and in embodiments all, of the features of other aspects and embodiments described herein, as appropriate.

[0065] The method may include configuring the needle assembly based on numerical analysis (e.g., finite element analysis), and / or electromechanical analysis and / or vibration analysis. The method may be iterative. The (e.g., numerical) analysis may include analysis of a system having a tattoo cartridge connected to a tattoo machine.

[0066] Thus, the location of one or more nodes may be determined, and a connection assembly may be attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more of the one or more determined node points or node regions. Thus, the connection assembly may be attached (longitudinally secured) to the needle assembly (only) at the location(s) where the node(s) is expected to occur.

[0067] The tattoo machine may be holdable, for example in the form of a pen device. The pen / machine may have a housing forming a handle / grip.

[0068] According to one aspect, there is provided an apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; a pen / machine configured to (when the cartridge is connected to the pen / machine) vibrate the needle assembly relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; Equipped with the needle assembly is connected to the housing assembly by a connecting assembly such that the needle assembly can vibrate relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency; The needle assembly is configured such that in response to being vibrated (by the pen / machine) at a second, higher frequency, acoustic standing waves can be generated along the needle assembly. The connection assembly may be attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodes or nodal regions of the acoustic standing wave. The needle assembly may have (or be made of) metal along (substantially) its entire length.

[0069] According to one aspect, there is provided a cartridge for use with a pen / machine, the cartridge comprising one or more oscillators configured to vibrate a needle assembly of the cartridge at a first frequency (when the cartridge is connected to the pen / machine) and to vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency, the cartridge comprising: a housing assembly; a needle assembly connected to the housing assembly by a connecting assembly such that the needle assembly can vibrate relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency; The needle assembly is configured such that, in response to being vibrated at the second frequency, an acoustic standing wave can be generated along the needle assembly. The connection assembly may be attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodes or nodal regions of the acoustic standing wave. The needle assembly may have (or be made of) metal along (substantially) its entire length.

[0070] According to one aspect there is provided a pen / machine comprising: a cartridge connector configured to receive a cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; one or more vibrators configured to vibrate a needle assembly of a cartridge connected to the cartridge connector at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; It is equipped with:

[0071] These aspects and embodiments may, and in embodiments do, include one or more, and in embodiments all, of the features of other aspects and embodiments described herein, as appropriate.

[0072] Each aspect described herein can, and in embodiments does, include one or more, and in embodiments all, of the features of the other aspects described herein, as appropriate. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0073] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A shows a tattoo cartridge. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B shows a tattoo cartridge. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates a tattoo needle that may be used in a tattoo cartridge according to embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B illustrates a tattoo needle that may be used in a tattoo cartridge according to embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates different tattoo cartridge housing configurations that may be used with different tattoo needles in embodiments. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A shows a metal needle assembly with universal connection capabilities according to an embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B illustrates a metal needle assembly with universal connection capabilities according to an embodiment. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C illustrates a metal needle assembly with universal connection capabilities according to an embodiment. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6D illustrates a metal needle assembly with universal connection capabilities according to an embodiment. [Figure 6E] FIG. 6E illustrates a metal needle assembly with universal connection capabilities according to an embodiment. [Figure 6F] FIG. 6F illustrates a metal needle assembly with universal connection capabilities according to an embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A shows a finite element analysis of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B shows a finite element analysis of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C shows a finite element analysis of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D shows a finite element analysis of a metal needle assembly according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a schematic diagram of a tattoo cartridge connected to a tattoo machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 9C]FIG. 9C shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram of a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a schematic illustration of a tattoo cartridge coupled to a higher frequency transducer according to an embodiment. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D shows a tattoo cartridge according to an embodiment. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A shows a metal needle assembly coupled to a higher frequency transducer according to an embodiment. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B shows a metal needle assembly coupled to a higher frequency transducer according to an embodiment. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C shows a metal needle assembly coupled to a higher frequency transducer according to an embodiment. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D shows a metal needle assembly coupled to a higher frequency transducer according to an embodiment. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A shows a conventional tattoo machine-cartridge interface. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B shows a tattoo machine-cartridge interface according to an embodiment. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A shows a metallic needle assembly of a tattoo cartridge coupled to a higher frequency vibrator and a lower frequency vibrator of a tattoo machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 14B]FIG. 14B shows a metallic needle assembly of a tattoo cartridge coupled to a higher frequency vibrator and a lower frequency vibrator of a tattoo machine according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows a schematic diagram of the design process according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0074] Modern electric tattoo machines typically function by rapidly vibrating a needle in a controlled longitudinal manner at approximately 3,000 to 9,000 vibrations per minute (approximately 50 Hz to 150 Hz) over a distance of several millimeters. These low-frequency vibrations allow the ink to penetrate the subject's skin down to the dermal level, where it may be retained, e.g., permanently. Typically, the user can control the frequency and depth of penetration to achieve the desired effect.

[0075] Techniques for imparting such low frequency vibratory motion to tattoo needles include the use of a rotary disk driven by a motor with an off-center pin, known as a "rotary machine," and via a spring-based lever / solenoid combination, known as a "coil machine." Less commonly, tattoo machines are pneumatically driven, where compressed air drives a rotating cam. Modern tattoo machines can be wired or wireless (e.g., referred to as a "tattoo pen").

[0076] It has been recognized that this type of low-frequency needling can cause trauma and pain in subjects. Pain is thought to arise from the triggering of nerve cells or nerve endings in the dermis layer by the action of the tattoo needle. Pain is induced, for example, by a pulsating motion at or near the site of needle insertion. The induction of a pain response in this manner is often referred to as "nociception," since nociception is typically involved in the transmission of such pain signals. Additionally, trauma and pain may be induced by friction between the tissue and the moving needle. Other types of pain may also occur, causing pain and / or discomfort.

[0077] The present applicant has discovered, as described in prior patent application WO 2020 / 089658, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, that superimposing higher frequency vibrations in the range of 5-200 kHz onto a lower fundamental frequency can reduce the degree of trauma, the degree of nociception, and other pain / discomfort triggers. High frequency, e.g., ultrasonic, longitudinal vibration motion has the effect of reducing the insertion force required to penetrate the skin layers, thereby reducing trauma, nociception, and other pain triggers. High frequency motion can significantly reduce the frictional forces between the tissue and the needle.

[0078] Tattoo devices traditionally use needles that have long metal rods with hooks that connect to tattoo machines. However, the use of tattoo cartridges, especially in conjunction with rotary machines, is becoming more common. Tattoo cartridges provide a ready-to-use, simple, and effective tattoo needle module.

[0079] 1A and 1B show a tattoo cartridge 10 that includes a shell 11 that houses a needle assembly. FIG. 1A shows the tattoo cartridge 10, and FIG. 1B shows the tattoo cartridge 10 with half of the housing 11 removed for illustrative purposes. The needle assembly includes a stainless steel tattoo needle 12 bonded to a PVC needle bar 13. A restrictor 14 is attached to the needle assembly and is sized to engage the interior surface of the shell 11 to hold the needle assembly coaxially within the shell 11. A flexible, elastic membrane 15 is attached at one end to the needle bar 13 and at the other end to a cap 16 that is attached to the shell 11.

[0080] 1 shows a relatively simple tattoo needle 12 having a single sharp point at the needle's tip 12A, it will be understood that other types of tattoo needles may be used. For example, the needle 12 may have a needle grouping that includes multiple needles grouped together in, for example, a rounded or flattened configuration, as appropriate for the desired tattoo application, such as lining, shading, color packing, etc.

[0081] For example, FIG. 2A shows a round shader needle 12 having multiple tips grouped in a round configuration at the tip 12A, while FIG. 2B shows a magnum needle 12 having two rows of tips at the tip 12A. As seen in FIG. 2, the round shader has a substantially cylindrical shaft, while the magnum needle has a flat shaft (e.g., a shape similar to a rectangle with rounded edges). The shell 11 can be appropriately configured to match the needle configuration. For example, FIG. 3 shows different shell configurations 11A, 11B, and 11C corresponding to different types of tattoo needles.

[0082] Returning to FIG. 1, the tattoo cartridge 10 is removably connectable to a tattoo machine, and FIG. 1 shows the tattoo cartridge 10 when not connected to the tattoo machine.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 1 , when tattoo cartridge 10 is not connected to a tattoo machine (not in use), needle 12 rests in a retracted position where tip 12A of needle 12 is covered by (the distal end of) shell 11. When tattoo cartridge 10 is connected to a tattoo machine, free end 13A of needle bar 13 (protruding from the proximal end of shell 11) engages an interface in the tattoo machine that allows the needle assembly to move longitudinally relative to shell 11 until tip 12A of needle 12 is exposed (i.e., not covered by shell 11). This movement stretches flexible membrane 15, acting to keep free end 13A of needle bar 13 engaged with the interface in the tattoo machine and also providing a restoring force that acts to return needle 12 to its retracted position when tattoo cartridge 10 is disconnected from the tattoo machine. This reduces the risk of damage to or accidental injury from needle 12 when not in use.

[0084] The membrane 15 is impermeable and provides a fluid-tight barrier between the distal and proximal portions of the cartridge, and therefore also serves to reduce or eliminate the ingress of liquids (such as ink or blood) into the tattoo machine.

[0085] When the tattoo cartridge 10 is connected to a tattoo machine, the free end 13A of the needle bar 13 is coupled (via an interface) to a transducer in the tattoo machine, and low-frequency vibrations applied by the transducer to the free end 13A of the needle bar 13 cause the needle 12 to oscillate (reciprocate) along its longitudinal axis at a low frequency (e.g., 50 Hz to 150 Hz) with sufficient amplitude to perform a tattoo (e.g., as described above). The connection between the tattoo cartridge 10 and the tattoo machine is such that the shell 11 is effectively fixed in position (longitudinal) relative to the tattoo machine, and the cyclic force imparted by the transducer and the restoring force imparted by the flexible membrane 15 cause the needle assembly to oscillate longitudinally relative to the shell 11 at a low frequency.

[0086] However, the inventors have found that the tattoo cartridge design illustrated by FIG. 1 tends to strongly dampen higher frequency vibrations, such that driving the free end 13A of the needle bar 13 at a higher, e.g., supersonic, frequency does not produce a sufficient higher, e.g., supersonic, frequency vibration to reduce the sensation of trauma or pain at the tip 12A of the needle 12.

[0087] Various embodiments thus provide "ultrasound compatible" tattoo cartridges. The embodiments incorporate the features described above, and therefore the following description will primarily focus on differences related to the above-described arrangements. However, it will be understood that the features described above may also be applied to the embodiments described below, where appropriate.

[0088] Figure 4 illustrates a needle assembly that can be used in an "ultrasound compatible" tattoo cartridge according to various embodiments. As shown in Figure 4, the needle assembly extends along a longitudinal axis 40 between the tip 12A of the tattoo needle 12 and the free end 13A of the needle bar 13. While Figure 4 illustrates the needle assembly (and shaft) extending along a substantially straight line, it will be understood that the needle (and shaft) may be curved or bent (e.g., during use).

[0089] The tip 12A of the tattoo needle 12 is configured for tattooing. While Figure 4 shows a simple tattoo needle 12 having a single sharp point at the tip 12A, it will be understood that other types of tattoo needles, such as those described above, may be used. The free end 13A of the needle bar 13 is configured to couple to (be driven by) a transducer in a tattoo machine.

[0090] In contrast to the arrangements described above, in the embodiment of FIG. 4, both the needle 12 and the needle bar 13 of the needle assembly are made of stainless steel. Other metals (including elements, alloys, compounds, etc.), such as titanium or nickel titanium (nitinol), are also possible. Thus, in various embodiments, the tattoo needle and needle bar are made of metal, as opposed to the arrangement described above, in which, for example, the tattoo needle is made of stainless steel while the needle bar is made of PVC. In various embodiments, the needle assembly comprises a metal, such as stainless steel, along substantially its entire longitudinal length. In embodiments, the arrangement allows high-frequency (e.g., 5-200 kHz) acoustic (e.g., ultrasonic) waves to propagate through the metal along most or all of the longitudinal length of the needle assembly.

[0091] The inventors have found that the above-described arrangement, in which the tattoo needles are made of stainless steel while the needle bar is made of PVC, tends to strongly attenuate the transmission of high frequency (e.g., 5-200 kHz) acoustic (e.g., ultrasonic) waves due to, for example, the acoustic attenuation properties of PVC, the large acoustic impedance mismatch that occurs at the boundary between the needle bar and the tattoo needle, and the interface between the needle bar and the transducer. The inventors have found that by forming substantially the entire length of the needle assembly (i.e., at least both the tattoo needle 12 and the needle bar 13) from a metal such as stainless steel, the transmission of high frequency acoustic (e.g., ultrasonic) waves from the free end of the needle assembly to the other tip can be significantly improved, resulting in significantly improved acoustic coupling between the needle assembly and the transducer. In particular, by driving the free end 13A of the stainless steel needle bar 13 at a high frequency (e.g., 5 to 200 kHz), a longitudinal vibration (vibration) of a high frequency (e.g., 5 to 200 kHz) sufficient to reduce the trauma and pain sensations caused at the tip 12A of the stainless steel tattoo needle 12 can be produced.

[0092] The tattoo needles 12 and needle bar 13 can be integrally formed or separately formed and attached to one another. The tattoo needles 12 and needle bar 13 can be attached to one another by any suitable method, such as using a metal fastener (e.g., a collet), welding (e.g., laser welding), an adhesive with a relatively high acoustic impedance (e.g., an epoxy resin), or any combination thereof. Figure 5A shows an embodiment in which the needles 12 and needle bar 13 are attached to one another by a metal, e.g., stainless steel, collet or collar 51. Figure 5B shows an embodiment in which the non-pointed end of the needle 12 is received in a cavity formed in the non-free end of the needle bar 13, and an epoxy or weld 52 within the cavity attaches the needle 12 to the needle bar 13.

[0093] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment in which the needle bar 13 has a universal cavity design configured to accommodate different types of tattoo needles. As best seen in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6F, in these embodiments, the needle bar cavity includes a first volume 61 shaped to receive a cylindrical tattoo needle shaft and a second volume 62 shaped to receive a flat needle shaft, such as a magnum needle. In these embodiments, the needle bar 13 includes a shaft section 13B at one end and a cavity-containing section 13C at the other end. To accommodate the cavity, the cavity-containing section 13C has a larger diameter than the shaft section 13B. FIG. 6C illustrates the round shader needle 12 of FIG. 2A attached to the needle bar 13 via a universal cavity within the needle bar cavity that includes section 13C, while FIG. 6D illustrates the magnum needle 12 of FIG. 2B attached to the needle bar 13 via a universal cavity within the needle bar cavity that includes section 13C.

[0094] 6A-C, the needle bar profile is substantially radially symmetrical along its entire length, but this need not be the case in other embodiments. For example, Figures 6E and 6F show an embodiment in which the cavity-containing section 13C includes a flat section 13D. This can reduce the weight of the metal needle bar 13.

[0095] Figures 7A and 7B show the results of a finite element analysis in which a stainless steel needle assembly, substantially as shown in Figure 5B, was driven longitudinally at its free end at a resonant frequency of 49.25 kHz. As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, in response to driving the needle bar 13 longitudinally at the resonant frequency, an acoustic (i.e., longitudinal) standing wave propagates along the entire longitudinal length of the needle assembly, causing the tip of the tattoo needle 12 to vibrate longitudinally at the resonant frequency.

[0096] 7A and 7B, the configuration of the resonant high frequency acoustic wave and needle assembly is such that the needle assembly is between maximum longitudinal expansion and maximum longitudinal contraction, with maximum longitudinal amplitudes (i.e., antinodes) occurring at both ends of the needle assembly and a single node 70 (i.e., minimum (zero) longitudinal amplitude) occurring substantially at the midpoint of the needle assembly, which in this example corresponds to the longitudinal location (plane) at which the needle 12 and needle bar 13 are attached to each other. However, it will be appreciated that with other resonant frequencies and / or needle assembly designs, the locations of the nodes and antinodes may be different, e.g., multiple nodes may occur.

[0097] Figure 7C shows the results of a finite element analysis in which a stainless steel needle assembly, substantially as shown in Figure 6D, was driven longitudinally at its free end 13A at a resonant frequency of 49,359 Hz. As shown in Figure 7C, in this example, the needle assembly is configured so that a single node occurs in the cavity-containing section 13C of the needle bar. The increased radial diameter of the cavity-containing section 13C increases the mass per unit length in this region (compared to the shaft section 13B and needle 12), widening the amplitude minimum compared to the embodiment of Figure 7B, effectively creating a node region 70 that extends across the cavity-containing section 13C. This can reduce sensitivity of the node location to, for example, different types of needles being used.

[0098] For example, Figure 7D shows the results of a finite element analysis of the same universal needle bar 13 connected to four different types of tattoo needles. Figure 7D shows that the location of the nodal region 70 in the cavity-containing section 13C of the needle bar 13 does not substantially change with the different types of needles connected to the universal needle bar 13, as a result of the increased diameter (mass per unit length) of the cavity-containing section 13C of the needle bar 13.

[0099] Thus, in various embodiments, the metallic needle assembly is configured to vibrate (during use) at a high frequency (e.g., at least 5 kHz) with one or more nodes occurring at one or more nodal points (surfaces) or nodal regions along the needle assembly. In other words, in response to being vibrated (longitudinally) at a (resonant) high frequency (e.g., at least 5 kHz) (by a tattoo machine transducer), the needle assembly is configured to vibrate (longitudinally) with one or more nodes (longitudinal amplitude minima) occurring at one or more nodal points or nodal regions along the needle assembly. Thus, in various embodiments, the needle assembly is configured such that high frequency acoustic standing waves can be generated along the (entire) length of the needle assembly.

[0100] Figure 8 shows an "ultrasound compatible" tattoo cartridge 10 connected to a tattoo machine 80 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 8, the tattoo cartridge 10 includes a shell 11 that houses a needle assembly, including a stainless steel tattoo needle 12 and a stainless steel needle bar 13. In this embodiment, the tattoo machine 80 has a grip 81 that houses an ultrasonic transducer 82. Figure 8 shows the shell 11 removably connected to the tattoo machine housing 81, with the free end 13A of the needle bar 13 coupled to the ultrasonic transducer 82.

[0101] The ultrasonic transducer 82 vibrates / oscillates the needle assembly longitudinally at a high resonant frequency (5-200 kHz), and the tattoo device 80 includes another transducer (not shown) that simultaneously vibrates / oscillates the needle assembly longitudinally at a low frequency (less than 1 kHz). The high frequency is selected to be the resonant frequency of both the ultrasonic transducer 82 and the needle assemblies 12, 13, thereby optimizing acoustic coupling. The resonant vibration is thus superimposed on the low-frequency reciprocating motion.

[0102] The transducer 82 may include a metallic (e.g., steel) rear mass and a metallic (e.g., titanium) front mass separated by a vibrating material. A suitable vibrating material, such as a piezo-ceramic or piezo-crystal material, may be used to generate high-frequency vibrations. In response to a stimulus, such as an electric current, at a defined frequency, the vibrating material of the transducer can cause the front mass, and therefore the needle assembly, to vibrate / resonate at a desired frequency.

[0103] Similar to the arrangement of Figure 1, the tattoo cartridge 10 of Figure 8 includes a restrictor 14, a flexible elastic membrane 15, and a cap 16. The cap 16 forms part of the housing and is attached to the proximal end of the shell 11. The restrictor 14 is attached to the needle assembly and is sized to engage the inner surface of the shell 11 to hold the needle assembly coaxially within the shell 11.

[0104] The flexible membrane 15 provides an impermeable barrier and a longitudinal restoring force to engage the free end 13A of the needle bar 13 with the ultrasonic transducer 82 and encourage the needle assembly to vibrate longitudinally relative to the shell 11 (at low frequencies), e.g., substantially as described above.

[0105] 1, the flexible membrane 15 is pre-strained such that when the tattoo cartridge 10 is connected to the tattoo machine 80, the flexible membrane 15 provides a greater force than would otherwise be required to keep the free end 13A of the needle bar 13 tightly engaged with the ultrasonic transducer 82. This promotes better acoustic coupling between the needle bar 13 and the transducer 82, promoting resonant behavior and improving the transfer of high frequency vibrations from the transducer 82 to the needle assembly.

[0106] As shown in Figure 8, a first (proximal) end of flexible membrane 15 is connected to cap 16. In contrast to the arrangement of Figure 1, a second (distal) end of flexible membrane 15 in the embodiment of Figure 8 is connected to restriction device 14. In particular, as shown in Figure 8, restriction device 14 includes a flange 83 that prevents longitudinal movement of the second (distal) end of flexible membrane 15 relative to restriction device 14. Thus, the (longitudinal) position of the first end of flexible membrane 15 is fixed relative to housing 11 by being attached to cap 16, and the (longitudinal) position of the second end of flexible membrane 15 is fixed relative to the needle assembly by being attached to restriction device 14.

[0107] This means that, in contrast to the arrangement shown in FIG. 1, where the restriction device and flexible membrane are separately connected to the needle assembly at different longitudinal positions, the needle assembly of the embodiment of FIG. 8 has only a single (longitudinally fixed) attachment point to the housing along its longitudinal length.

[0108] 8, the needle assemblies are configured substantially as described above with reference to Figures 7A and 7B, and the restriction device 14 is attached to the needle assemblies at a longitudinal location on the needle assembly that corresponds to a node 70 of the high-frequency vibration (i.e., a location along the longitudinal axis of the needle assembly where the longitudinal amplitude of the high-frequency (5 kHz or greater) longitudinal vibrations (acoustic waves) is (expected to be) minimum. Thus, the connection assemblies 14, 15 are attached to the needle assemblies 12, 13 only at the nodes that correspond to the nodes of the high-frequency (5 kHz or greater) acoustic waves.

[0109] The inventors have found that by limiting the attachment points to the needle assembly to nodes of high frequency (above 5 kHz) vibrations, resonant behavior and damping of high frequency vibrations resulting from, for example, interactions between the housing and the needle assembly can be minimized, thus improving the transmission of high frequency vibrations along the needle assembly.

[0110] In particular, the inventors have discovered that by forming substantially the entire length of the needle assembly (i.e., at least both the tattoo needle 12 and the needle bar 13) from a metal such as stainless steel (as described above), and by attaching a housing to the needle assembly at a nodal point (flat surface), significantly improved transmission of high frequency (e.g., 5-200 kHz) acoustic (e.g., ultrasonic) waves from the free end of the needle assembly to the other tip can be provided, as compared to the arrangement shown in, for example, Figure 1. This allows the traumatic pain reduction benefits associated with high frequency vibrations to be realized in a cartridge-type tattoo device.

[0111] 9 shows another embodiment in which the connection assembly is attached to the needle assembly only at the high frequency node region of the needle assembly. As shown in FIG. 9A, in this embodiment, the needle assembly has a flat tattoo needle 12 received within a cavity formed in the cavity-containing section 13C of the needle bar.

[0112] The needle assembly is configured substantially as described above with reference to Figure 7C, such that the needle bar has a section of increased radial diameter where node region 70 occurs. As can be seen in Figures 9A and 9B, the needle bar includes an integral flange 83 configured to longitudinally retain the distal end of flexible membrane 15 at node region 70.

[0113] 9B and 9C, cap 16 is attached to the proximal end of flexible membrane 15, and shell 11 is attached to cap 16. Thus, there is no direct physical contact between needle assemblies 12, 13 and housing assemblies 11, 16. Bushings (not shown) may be attached between shell 11 and needle 12 and / or between cap 16 and needle bar shaft 13B to help maintain coaxial alignment between shell 11 and needle 12. The housing may include a surface 110, such as a flange or shoulder, that interfaces with the tattoo machine.

[0114] Thus, in this embodiment, only the distal end of flexible membrane 15 is secured to the needle assembly, and the distal end of flexible membrane 15 is secured to the needle assembly only at the nodal region.

[0115] In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the restrictor 14 is sized to hold both needle assemblies 12, 13 at their joints and to hold the needle assemblies coaxially within the shell 11, however, in the embodiment of FIG. 9, it will be appreciated that the tattoo cartridge may include a bushing to hold the needle assemblies coaxially within the shell 11.

[0116] FIG. 10A illustrates an embodiment in which the tattoo cartridge 10 has a distal bushing 91 and a proximal bushing 92 sized to coaxially retain the needle assembly within the shell 11 .

[0117] As shown in FIG. 10A , in this embodiment, cap 16 is attached to shell 11, and the assembly includes a nodal stainless steel collar 94. Collar 94 has a flange 83 configured to secure one end of flexible membrane 15, the other end of which is attached to cap 16. Front bushing 91 is a tubular plastic member shaped to substantially fill the annular space between collar 94 and shell 11 to concentrically retain the needle assembly within shell 11. Similarly, rear bushing 92 is a tubular plastic member shaped to substantially fill the annular space between needle bar 13 and cap 16 to concentrically retain the needle assembly within shell 11. Bushings 91, 92 allow needle assemblies 12, 13, 94 to slide longitudinally therethrough. Other bushing arrangements are possible.

[0118] FIG. 10B shows an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 10A, except that a plastic collar 104 (tubular member) is attached to the needle assemblies 12, 13 at a nodal point. FIG. 10B shows a tattoo needle cartridge 10 connected to a tattoo machine 80 having an ultrasonic transducer 82. For clarity, elements of the housing are not shown in FIG. 10B. In this embodiment, the cap 16 is attached to the shell 11 (not shown), and the plastic collar 104 is attached to the needle assemblies 12, 13 substantially at the nodal points or nodal regions. A flexible membrane 15 is attached to the collar 104 at one end at a nodal point and to the cap 16 at the other end. In other embodiments, a metal grommet may be attached to the needle assemblies 12, 13 at a nodal point, with the flexible membrane attached to the metal grommet.

[0119] Figures 9 and 10 show embodiments having a needle assembly design similar to that shown in Figure 6. As can be seen in Figures 9 and 10, in these embodiments, a (stainless steel) needle bar 13 has a cavity within which a (stainless steel) tattoo needle 12 is received and attached. However, it will be understood that other needle assembly designs are possible.

[0120] FIG. 11A is an exploded perspective view of a tattoo cartridge according to one embodiment. The tattoo cartridge includes a machined or 3D printed polymer bushing 91, a silicone membrane 15 attached to a stainless steel needle bar 13, and a 3D printed cap 16. The housing further includes a 3D printed shell 11 and a 3D printed shell tip. As shown in FIG. 11A, different shell tips 11A-11D can be attached to the shell 11 to accommodate different needle types.

[0121] Figure 11B shows the tattoo cartridge when not connected to a tattoo machine. As shown in Figure 11B, in this position, the needle bar 13 rests against the cap 16 which forms a stop, and the sharp end of the needle 12 is covered by the shell tip.

[0122] FIG. 11C shows the tattoo cartridge after it has been connected to a tattoo machine. As shown by FIG. 11C, installing the tattoo cartridge in the tattoo machine moves the needle assembly toward the distal end of the tattoo cartridge, thereby pre-straining the membrane 15 and creating a restoring force that can promote good (e.g., ultrasonic) acoustic coupling between the needle assembly and the tattoo machine. The inventors have found that pre-straining the silicone membrane 15 by 1 to 6 mm, e.g., about 2 mm or 3 mm, provides sufficient force to promote good acoustic coupling. The pre-strain distance can vary depending on the membrane's thickness, stiffness, etc. In embodiments, the pre-strain distance (needle "throw") is user-adjustable, e.g., between 1 and 3 mm. That is, the distance between the needle positions shown in FIGS. 11B and 11C may be adjustable, e.g., so that the level of pre-strain is adjustable.

[0123] The restoring force provided by membrane 15 and the low-frequency vibration provided by the tattoo machine can cause the needle assembly to oscillate (reciprocate) between the positions shown in FIGS. 11C and 11D. As seen in FIGS. 11C and 11D, the tip of needle 12 oscillates between a retracted position and an extended position to facilitate tattoo application. In embodiments, the oscillation amplitude ("stroke") is user-adjustable, for example, between 3 and 4 mm. That is, the distance between the retracted and extended positions of the needle shown in FIGS. 11C and 11D may be adjustable.

[0124] To determine the prestrain and stroke values, various commercially available elastic membranes were assembled into the test rig. Starting at 1 mm, the strain distance was increased in 1 mm steps using the rig's position adjustment function until a maximum of 7 mm was reached. Impedance tests were performed at each step to observe changes in frequency, impedance, and curve profile. The elastic force provided by the membrane at different strain distances was also measured with a force gauge.

[0125] Table 1 shows partial acoustic impedance measurements of a relatively thin (approximately 0.3 mm thick) soft silicone membrane (Membrane A) and a relatively thick (approximately 0.5 mm thick) stiff silicone membrane (Membrane B). Table 1 demonstrates that acoustic impedance decreases with increasing prestrain distance. Furthermore, acoustic impedance is generally lower for thicker membranes than for thinner membranes (for the same prestrain distance). Correspondingly, force measurements showed that spring force increased with increasing strain distance and with increasing membrane thickness. The measured force was compared to the theoretically calculated peak spring force expected to maintain a firm metal needle bar-transducer contact through a full vibration cycle of low-frequency (e.g., 150 Hz) reciprocating motion. Measurements and calculations confirmed that selecting a relatively stiff / thick membrane can reduce the strain distance required to provide a given force, thereby allowing for the use of a smaller prestrain distance and / or stroke distance.

[0126] [Table 1] Table 1: Acoustic impedance measurement results for different membranes and pre-strain distances

[0127] The free end 13A of the needle bar 13 can be coupled to a high-frequency (e.g., ultrasonic) transducer of a tattoo machine in any suitable manner. Figures 12A-D show one embodiment of a stainless steel needle assembly 12, 13 coupled to an ultrasonic transducer 82 by a pin-and-socket interface. As best seen in Figure 12B, in this embodiment, the metal free end 13A of the needle bar 13 has a rounded, convex, radially symmetric shape, and the ultrasonic transducer 82 includes a metal socket 111 having a complementary convex, radially symmetric shape. The inventors have found that this arrangement minimizes energy transferred from the transducer 82 to the lateral vibration of the needle assemblies 12, 13, thereby maximizing energy transferred to the desired longitudinal vibration mode.

[0128] Additionally, this arrangement increases the contact area between the metal free end 13A of the needle bar 13 and the socket 111 compared to, for example, a conventional arrangement in which the needle bar end is concave. This is illustrated by FIG. 13. FIG. 13A shows a conventional tattoo machine-cartridge interface in which the tattoo machine has a rounded pin 132 that interfaces with a concave recess in the end of the plastic needle bar 131. FIG. 13B shows an embodiment in which the tattoo machine has a concave socket 111 that interfaces with the rounded end 13A of the metal needle bar 13. It has been found that the contact area between the socket 111 and the rounded needle bar end 13A is approximately 50% greater than the contact area between the pin 132 and the needle bar 131 in the conventional arrangement. This allows for improved mechanical and acoustic coupling between the needle and the transducer.

[0129] 12D shows the results of a finite element analysis, showing longitudinal vibration nodes occurring at node 70 substantially at the midpoint of the needle assemblies 12, 13, and antinodes occurring at both ends of the needle assemblies 12, 13. Other interface arrangements may be possible, such as a bayonet interface. In embodiments, the interface has quick connect and quick release capabilities.

[0130] In these embodiments, the tattoo machine further includes a low frequency vibrator (e.g., a rotating disk driven by a motor and having an off-center pin) (not shown) that induces low frequency (less than 1 kHz) longitudinal vibrations (reciprocating motion) in both the needle assemblies 12, 13 and the ultrasonic transducer 82 (relative to the housing).

[0131] For example, returning to FIG. 8 , in this embodiment, the ultrasonic transducer 82 vibrates longitudinally at a low frequency relative to the grip 81. However, in other embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 82 may remain substantially stationary relative to the housing. For example, FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate another embodiment in which the needle assemblies 12, 13 of the tattoo cartridge 10 are coupled to a low-frequency vibrator (a rotating disk with an off-center pin driven by a motor) 122 and a high-frequency vibrator (ultrasonic transducer) 82 of the tattoo machine. In this embodiment, a flexible coupling allows the low-frequency vibrations generated by the low-frequency vibrator 122 to be transmitted to the needle assemblies 12, 13, effectively “bypassing” the ultrasonic transducer 82. As shown in FIG. 14 , the needle bar 13 has a flange 125 at its free end that couples to a spring-loaded interface 126 of the ultrasonic transducer 82.

[0132] In this embodiment, the coupling also serves to hold the needle assemblies 12, 13 coaxially within the shell 11, and therefore the tattoo cartridge does not include a restricting device or bushing therefor, as can be seen in Figure 14. As shown in Figure 14, in this embodiment, a collar 124 is attached to the needle assemblies at the nodes, a cap 16 closes the distal end of the shell 11, and an elastic membrane 15 is attached between the collar 124 and the cap 16.

[0133] The location and / or extent of the nodes may be constructed with the aid of numerical analysis and verified experimentally. Figure 15 illustrates a design process according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 15, an initial needle assembly design may be generated (at step 151), for example, based on wavelength theory calculations.

[0134] For example, for a transducer having a half-wave design (i.e., antinodes occur at opposite ends of the transducer and a single node occurs between the ends of the transducer), the initial needle assembly design may have a half-wave design, e.g., L = λ / 2, where the length L is equal to half the wavelength. For example, if the operating resonant frequency of the transducer is 50 kHz and the needle assembly is made of steel with a sound speed of 4943 m / s, the initial length of the needle assembly with a matching 50 kHz resonant frequency may be determined to be L = (4943 / 50e3) / 2 = 49.4 mm. This calculation assumes that the diameter of the needle assembly is constant, but it will be understood that the initial design can be adapted to include desired physical characteristics, for example, as described above. Other arrangements, such as full-wave designs, are also possible.

[0135] The initial design may then be numerically modeled (step 152), for example, using finite element analysis. The numerical modeling may be used to determine whether the modeled design exhibits the desired performance, e.g., whether nodes occur at the desired locations. If the numerical modeling indicates that the design operates as desired, the needle assembly / tattoo device may be manufactured according to the design (step 155) and tested, for example, using electromechanical and vibration analysis (step 156). If the numerical modeling indicates that the design does not operate as desired, the design may be adjusted (step 154), and the adjusted design may be subjected to numerical analysis, etc. (step 152). For example, the location of the nodal plane may be adjusted by adjusting the mass distribution on either side of the nodal plane. The needle assembly and tattoo device may be constructed through an iterative design process. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, other processes are possible.

[0136] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. a tattoo cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; a tattoo machine configured to vibrate the needle assembly relative to the housing assembly at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; Equipped with the needle assembly is connected to the housing assembly by a connecting assembly such that the needle assembly can vibrate relative to the housing assembly at the first frequency; the needle assembly is configured to generate an acoustic standing wave along the needle assembly in response to being vibrated at the second, higher frequency, and the connection assembly is attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodes or nodal regions of the acoustic standing wave. Tattoo equipment.

2. The connection assembly includes a resilient member. The tattoo device of claim 1 .

3. the tattoo cartridge is configured such that the elastic member is pre-strained when the tattoo cartridge is connected to the tattoo machine, such that the elastic member provides a force to acoustically couple the needle assembly to the tattoo machine.

3. The tattoo device of claim 2.

4. the elastic member is an impermeable membrane; 4. The tattoo device of claim 2 or 3.

5. the resilient member is attached to the needle assembly substantially at a nodal point or nodal region; 5. The tattoo device of claim 2, 3 or 4.

6. the connecting assembly having a first member attached to the needle assembly substantially at a node or node region, the resilient member attached to the first member; 5. The tattoo device of claim 2, 3 or 4.

7. the first member is configured to engage an inner surface of the housing assembly to coaxially retain the needle assembly within the housing assembly.

7. The tattoo device of claim 6.

8. the tattoo cartridge having one or more second members configured to coaxially retain the needle assembly within the housing assembly; 8. The tattoo device of any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the connecting assembly is attached to the needle assembly at a nodal region of the needle assembly that has a greater mass per unit length than other regions of the needle assembly; 9. A tattoo device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The first frequency is in the range of 1-1000 Hz, and the second frequency is in the range of 5-200 kHz.

10. The tattoo device of any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. the needle assembly extends from a first end configured to couple to the tattoo machine to a second tip; the needle assembly having metal along substantially its entire length; 11. The tattoo device of any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. the metal comprises stainless steel, titanium, nickel titanium, or aluminum; 12. The tattoo device of claim 11.

13. the needle assembly includes a tattoo needle attached to a needle bar; One end of the tattoo needle and the needle bar has a cavity; The other end of the needle bar of the tattoo needle is received within the cavity.

13. A tattoo device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The cavities are formed in the needle bar and are configured to receive different types of tattoo needles.

14. The tattoo device of claim 13.

15. the second, higher frequency is a resonant frequency of a transducer of the tattoo machine and the needle assembly; 15. The tattoo device of any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. the tattoo machine has a flexible coupling, and the needle assembly is coupled to the flexible coupling; 16. A tattoo device according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. the needle assembly having a rounded end, and the tattoo machine having a complementary socket configured to receive the rounded end to acoustically couple the needle assembly to the tattoo machine.

17. A tattoo device according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. 1. A tattoo cartridge for use with a tattoo machine, the tattoo cartridge having one or more oscillators configured to vibrate a needle assembly of the tattoo cartridge at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; a housing assembly; the needle assembly connected to the housing assembly by a connecting assembly such that the needle assembly can vibrate relative to the housing assembly at the first frequency; Equipped with The tattoo cartridge, wherein the needle assembly is configured such that an acoustic standing wave can be generated along the needle assembly in response to being vibrated at the second frequency, and the connection assembly is attached to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodes or nodal areas of the acoustic standing wave.

19. a cartridge connector configured to receive a tattoo cartridge having a needle assembly and a housing assembly; one or more vibrators configured to vibrate a needle assembly of a tattoo cartridge connected to the cartridge connector at a first frequency and simultaneously vibrate the needle assembly at a second, higher frequency; A tattoo machine equipped with

20. connecting the tattoo cartridge to the tattoo machine; 18. A method of operating the tattoo device of any one of claims 1 to 17.

21. 20. A method of applying a tattoo, comprising applying a tattoo with an apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

22. 20. A method for manufacturing a tattoo cartridge according to claim 18, comprising: A method of manufacturing a tattoo cartridge comprising attaching the connection assembly to the needle assembly substantially at one or more nodal points or nodal areas.

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