Dry massage device

Abstract

A massage device for dry hydromassage comprises a basic structure (121, 123, 123') and massage modules (21, 21'), the massage modules (21, 21') comprising a substantially closed container (26) having walls (27, 262), a flexible membrane (27) forming part of the wall of the closed container and having a first surface facing inward from the closed container, and at least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) positioned to guide a liquid jet (42) onto the first surface of the flexible membrane on the inside of the closed container. The massage device has a drive module (24) positioned to move the massage modules (21, 21') relative to the basic structure in at least one direction of movement (x, y).

Description

Background Art

[0001] [Field of the Invention]

[0002] The present invention relates to a massage device for hydro massage, particularly a massage device for dry hydro massage and a massage nozzle device for generating induced liquid jets. [Technical Background]

[0003] Bathtubs having a massage function and similar devices for so-called hydro massage are known, in which the user's body is immersed in water and one or more water jets are directed against the body to eject the water jets, which exert a mechanical force on the corresponding part of the body when they hit. Such water jet massage devices require a lot of space and energy and are also heavy. In addition, since the user needs to be in water during the massage, it takes time to use. Furthermore, complicated maintenance is required, particularly for hygienic reasons.

[0004] Massage tables and massage chairs that can automatically massage the user using mechanical massage elements are also known. In this type of massage device, an electrically driven mechanical actuator exerts a local force on the user's body. The mechanical actuator is incorporated, for example, in a reclining surface or a backrest. A large number of actuators are required to achieve a massage effect on different parts of the body. Mechanical actuators are expensive to manufacture and maintain. They are prone to failure due to wear of the movable mechanical components. Usually, a hard massage head may cause an uncomfortable massage feeling or pain due to the applied force.

[0005] CN 203280724 U discloses a device for "dry" massage using water jets, also known as dry hydromassage, in which numerous upward-facing water jets are permanently arranged in a water-filled bathtub. The top of the bathtub is watertightly sealed with a flexible membrane. The user receiving the massage lies on this membrane. Each water nozzle emits an inductive water jet that strikes the underside of the membrane at a predetermined position. Force is exerted on the user's body through the flexible membrane, achieving the desired massage effect. Due to the need for numerous water jets, this type of massage nozzle device is expensive to manufacture and operate.

[0006] EP 0880958 A1 discloses another device for dry water jet massage. The user lies in a water-filled bathtub, which is like a waterbed, with its upper end closed by a flexible and waterproof membrane. One or two longitudinally movable nozzle slides are located at the bottom of the bathtub. Two massage nozzles are positioned on the nozzle slides, and their distance from each other is adjustable transversely. A pump pressurizes water through the nozzles, generating an inductive water jet in the direction of the flexible membrane. Similar devices are also disclosed in EP 1666017 A1 and EP 2327386 A1.

[0007] Further devices for dry massage by water jets are also known from the applicant's US 2022 / 0323287 A1 (the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference). The device comprises a bathtub filled with water and a foil material that serves as the surface of the treatment subject's bed and allows for the transmission of pressure pulses. The foil material acts as a cover that watertightly seals the top of the bathtub. A carriage with at least two water nozzles is positioned inside the bathtub, each water nozzle discharging a water jet toward the underside of the foil material. The water nozzles are pumped. A first drive unit moves the trolley back and forth along the longitudinal direction of the bathtub. A second drive unit moves the water nozzles on the trolley along the transverse direction of the bathtub. The water jets can be swung from a resting position to an operating position by a lever mechanism.

[0008] The above-mentioned type of massage device requires a lot of floor space because it is designed to be used only in a lying position. Furthermore, lying down during a massage, especially in a public space, is often uncomfortable for the user and can diminish the relaxation effect.

[0009] JP H6 / 205811 discloses a massage chair for dry water jet massage. A flexible and waterproof membrane is provided as the seat surface of an S-shaped chair. Guide rails are provided below the seat surface at a fixed distance from the membrane. A nozzle carriage is positioned on the guide rails, and the water nozzles are positioned at a fixed distance from the membrane and always have an effective axis perpendicular to the membrane. The water nozzles generate water jets, which move through the air and exert an outward and perpendicular force at the point of impact with the membrane, thereby performing the massage. The flexible membrane forms a watertight seal within the housing at the bottom of the massage chair, and the water from the massage nozzles remains within the device, is collected at the bottom, and pumped out for reuse.

[0010] US 2009 / 0312680 A1 discloses a massage chair for dry water jet massage, in which multiple water nozzles are horizontally arranged on a carriage movable along the longitudinal direction of the backrest. Deflection elements shape the water jets generated from the water nozzles into concentrated jets directed to specific points on a flexible membrane. The water from the massage nozzles, bounced off the membrane, is collected on the floor and pumped out for reuse.

[0011] US 5827206 describes a massage chair for dry water jet massage having a flexible membrane as a backrest. Multiple water jets are fixed and positioned behind the backrest, applying force to the flexible backrest to generate water jets that achieve a massage effect. The water that bounces off the flexible backrest is collected in a pump sump below the seat surface and pumped back into the water jets in a circulation path. US2009 / 0312680 A1 discloses a massage chair in which multiple water nozzles are arranged horizontally on a carriage that is movable along the longitudinal direction of the backrest. Deflection elements shape the water jets generated by the water nozzles into concentrated jets directed to specific points on the flexible membrane.

[0012] The type of massage device described above is noisy because the water jet is atomized when it hits the backrest. The necessary pump sump requires a large volume of space under the seat.

[0013] US 6036663 discloses a water jet massage chair in which a water-filled bladder made of a flexible membrane is tilted to form a backrest. Deflection elements shape the water flow generated from the water nozzles into a concentrated jet directed at specific points on the flexible membrane. A crossbar maintains the shape of the bladder and prevents the lower part of the bladder from expanding due to water pressure. The backrest is divided accordingly into individual sections. KR 20110129315 shows a similar device in which water nozzles are movably positioned on a movable nozzle carriage.

[0014] Improvements are generally needed in this area. [Overview of the project]

[0015] The object of the present invention is to provide a massage device of the type described at the beginning that eliminates the aforementioned drawbacks and at least one of the other drawbacks.

[0016] The massage device according to the present invention should combine the advantages of dry massage and wet massage. In particular, the massage device according to the present invention should be able to achieve a high massage effect similar to that of conventional massages using water jets, while simultaneously achieving the size and ease of use of a mechanical massage device.

[0017] In particular, it should be possible to massage the seated position using the massage device according to the present invention.

[0018] The massage device according to the present invention must be able to operate in an energy-saving manner.

[0019] The massage device according to the present invention must be reliable in operation. It must be inexpensive to manufacture and maintain. The required room volume and the installation area of ​​the massage device must be as small as possible.

[0020] A further object of the present invention is to provide an advantageous massage nozzle device. Such an advantageous massage nozzle device should be usable, in particular, in a massage apparatus according to the present invention.

[0021] The massage nozzle device according to the present invention is particularly low in manufacturing cost. Furthermore, it is desirable that it be highly flexible in use, durable, and have low maintenance costs.

[0022] These and other objectives are addressed by the massage apparatus and massage nozzle device described in the independent claims of the present invention. Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0023] Each of the solutions of the present invention has its own advantages and can be further improved by various embodiments that can be combined with each other unless otherwise specified. These embodiments and their associated advantages are described below.

[0024] The first aspect of the present invention relates to a massage device for dry hydro massage.

[0025] The massage device according to the present invention includes a basic structure and a massage module. The massage module includes a substantially closed container having a wall, a flexible membrane forming a part of the wall of the container and having a first surface facing the inside of the closed container, and at least one massage nozzle device arranged to direct a liquid jet onto the first surface of the flexible membrane inside the closed container. The massage device further includes a drive module arranged to move the massage module in at least one direction of movement.

[0026] It is advantageous for the flexible membrane to be impermeable to liquids.

[0027] In such a massage device according to the present invention, at the point where the liquid jet of the massage nozzle device merges with the flexible membrane, a force is transmitted from the liquid to the membrane, and the force is transmitted directly or indirectly from the membrane to the body tissue of the massage subject. Since the user is separated from the massage nozzle device by the membrane, the user does not come into contact with the liquid. Therefore, the massage device according to the present invention can be used like a mechanical massage device and has the effect of wet massage by water jets. The jet intensity has a balanced effect and is felt comfortably by the user.

[0028] Since the massage module is movable, the dimensions of the massage module, particularly the flexible membrane of the container, can be made smaller than the actual effective range of the massage device according to the present invention. When massaging a point outside the massage area of the massage module, the drive module can move the massage module to that point. Thereby, the weight of the massage device can be reduced. In the case of a massage device having an inclined effective surface, the problem of expansion of the flexible membrane can be avoided by changing the hydrostatic pressure.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment, the massage module can act directly on the body of the user to be massaged.

[0030] In another advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the invention, on the side of the massage module opposite to the container of the flexible membrane, a flexible layer fixedly attached to the basic structure of the massage device is provided.

[0031] In particular, this flexible layer can be designed as part of a chair or a bed of the massage device. For example, this flexible layer can form the backrest of the chair of the massage device.

[0032] The flexible layer can be designed, for example, as a membrane or film, a fibrous surface, a foam layer, or a mesh structure. This flexible layer must be flexible enough to deform similarly under the force by which the flexible membrane of the massage module is extruded outward by the liquid jets of the massage module and transmit the force to the body of the user. Also, the flexible layer needs to have sufficient stability to withstand the weight of the user. The static friction between the flexible membrane of the massage module and the flexible layer is preferably made as low as possible to reduce wear of the materials. This can be achieved, for example, by appropriate material selection, coating of the flexible membrane and / or the flexible layer, or use of an appropriate lubricant.

[0033] The massage nozzle device can be a simple nozzle, which forms the liquid into a liquid jet as concentrated and directional as possible by a nozzle tube and can reach the membrane by bridging a certain distance in the liquid in the container of the massage device.

[0034] <0, The massage nozzle device can also be the massage nozzle device according to the invention described below.

[0035] The closed container of the massage module is advantageously filled with liquid or can be filled with liquid.

[0036] Advantageously, the container is filled with liquid during operation, and the liquid jet generated by the massage nozzle device moves through the liquid inside the container. This can reduce noise generation.

[0037] However, the container may not be filled with liquid, or may only be partially filled. In such embodiments, the liquid jet generated by the massage nozzle device travels through the air or gaseous phase within the container. The liquid, bounced off the flexible membrane, collects at the bottom of the container and is returned to the pump circulation path.

[0038] Water is preferred as the liquid. Other components, such as compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria and algae, can be added as needed. Another advantageous liquid is silicone oil, which is non-toxic and non-flammable.

[0039] In the massage device according to the present invention, the second surface of the membrane opposite to the first surface may also be in contact with the liquid.

[0040] For example, the massage device according to the present invention can be combined with a device such as a bathtub, where the massage device is installed in the bathtub, the membrane forms part of the bathtub wall, and the massage nozzle device of the massage device is placed outside the bathtub.

[0041] In this embodiment, the bathwater in the bathtub can also be used as the liquid for the massage device.

[0042] However, the separation of the two systems is advantageous, as it prevents contamination from the bath water mixing with the massage device's fluid system. Therefore, the fluid within the massage device can be optimized according to the application.

[0043] In the massage device according to the present invention, it is advantageous that both the flexible membrane and the rigid cover form a flat wall of the container of the massage module.

[0044] In an advantageous embodiment, the massage device according to the present invention includes a pump module for supplying pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device of the massage module.

[0045] The pump module may include a pump and a drain conduit that fluidly connects the pump inlet of the pump to the vessel of the massage module. The inlet opening of the drain conduit is located in the vessel wall adjacent to the rigid cover.

[0046] In another advantageous embodiment, the massage device according to the present invention has a drive module and / or a control module for controlling the massage module.

[0047] Such control modules are advantageous when configured to control the pump module.

[0048] Advantageously, the jet intensity of the massage nozzle device can be adjusted, for example, by controlling the massage nozzle device or the pump output of the pump module.

[0049] The massage effect can be maintained at a constant level by controlling the jet intensity, or it can be controlled according to the body area.

[0050] Advantageously, in the massage device according to the present invention, the position and / or orientation of at least one massage nozzle device can be changed, allowing the directional liquid jet to be directed to different parts of the first surface of the flexible film.

[0051] In another advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, the drive module is arranged to move the massage module in a plane.

[0052] In yet another advantageous embodiment, the drive module is arranged to move the massage module along a curved path in space.

[0053] In yet another advantageous embodiment, the drive module is arranged to rotate the massage module around an axis in space.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, the flexible membrane of the massage module has at least one structural feature portion arranged to adjust the mechanical properties of the flexible membrane.

[0055] In such embodiments, it is advantageous that at least one structural element is molded or bonded onto the flexible film of the massage module, and that the flexible film is locally cured.

[0056] In another advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, a device is provided that can adjust and / or change the temperature of the liquid in the container.

[0057] In yet another advantageous embodiment, a heating device is provided that allows for adjustment of the temperature of the contact surface of the massage device.

[0058] Such heating devices can provide a comfortable warming sensation to the user lying on the massage device. Another advantage of such heating devices is that they eliminate the need to heat the liquid in the massage module, thus reducing energy consumption.

[0059] Advantageously, the heating device has multiple heating zones, which the user can individually select and set, for example, the desired temperature for each heating zone.

[0060] Such heating devices can be implemented, for example, by electric heating wires or inserted thin heating hoses. It is advantageous for such heating devices to be provided as an independent layer positioned between a flexible membrane and a support mat placed on it. In this case, there is a unique advantage: the support mat can be easily removed and cleaned without manipulating the heating device's connections.

[0061] Alternatively, the heating device can be integrated into or connected to a support mat placed on the flexible film.

[0062] This is particularly advantageous because the user's body being massaged makes thermally conductive contact with the membrane, and consequently with the fluid in the massage device. Raising the fluid temperature above room temperature, for example to body temperature or higher, can enhance user comfort and amplify the physiological benefits of the massage. Alternatively, temperatures below room temperature can be used for therapeutic purposes.

[0063] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a massage device for dry hydromassage.

[0064] The massage device according to the present invention comprises a substantially closed container having walls, and a massage module, the massage module comprising a flexible membrane forming part of the wall of the container and having a first surface facing inward from the closed container, and at least one massage nozzle device arranged to guide a liquid jet to the first surface of the flexible membrane on the inside of the closed container. The flexible membrane of the massage module has at least one structural feature portion arranged to adjust the mechanical properties of the flexible membrane.

[0065] By changing the structural properties of the flexible film in this way, it is possible to adjust the mechanical deformation of the flexible film based on, for example, the force of a liquid jet. Advantageously, at least one structural element is molded or bonded onto the flexible film of the massage module, and the flexible film is locally cured.

[0066] In an advantageous embodiment, the massage device according to the present invention comprises a basic structure and a drive module arranged to move a massage module in at least one direction of movement relative to the basic structure.

[0067] The closed container of the massage module is advantageously filled with or can be filled with liquid.

[0068] In the massage device according to the present invention, it is advantageous that both the flexible membrane and the rigid cover form the flat walls of the container of the massage module.

[0069] In an advantageous embodiment, the massage device according to the present invention includes a pump module for supplying pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device of the massage module.

[0070] The pump module may include a pump and a drain conduit that fluidly connects the pump inlet of the pump to the vessel of the massage module, where the inlet opening of the drain conduit is located in the wall of the vessel adjacent to the rigid cover.

[0071] In another advantageous embodiment, the massage device according to the present invention has a control module configured to control a massage module.

[0072] Such control modules are advantageously configured to control drive modules and / or any pump modules that may be present.

[0073] In a more advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, the drive module is arranged to move the massage module in a plane.

[0074] In yet another advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, the drive module is arranged to move the massage module along a curved path in space.

[0075] In yet another advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, the drive module is arranged to rotate the massage module around an axis in space.

[0076] A third aspect relates to a massage device for dry hydromassage.

[0077] The massage apparatus according to the present invention comprises a massage module, the massage module having a substantially closed container having walls, a flexible membrane forming part of the wall of the container and having a first surface facing inward from the closed container, and at least one massage nozzle device positioned to guide a liquid jet to the first surface of the flexible membrane on the inside of the closed container. The flexible membrane and the rigid cover together form the flat wall of the container of the massage module.

[0078] In a massage device according to the present invention, it is advantageous for the pump module to include a pump and a drain conduit. The drain conduit fluidly connects the container of the massage module to the pump inlet of the pump. The inlet opening of the drain conduit is located in the container wall adjacent to the rigid cover.

[0079] A fourth aspect relates to a massage nozzle device for generating an induced liquid jet.

[0080] The massage nozzle device according to the present invention comprises a nozzle element having a nozzle tube for generating an induced liquid jet, wherein the nozzle tube has an inlet opening at a first longitudinal end and an outlet opening at a second longitudinal end, and a hydraulic actuator operably connected to the nozzle element and arranged to displace the nozzle element from a retracted position to an extended position along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle tube.

[0081] In such a massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle tube can be positioned at a variable position along its longitudinal axis, and this movement of the nozzle tube in one direction is performed hydraulically.

[0082] The extension length of the nozzle element of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, i.e., the distance between the nozzle element in the retracted position and the same nozzle element in the extended position, is preferably sufficient to ensure that the nozzle element always comes as close as possible to the body of the person being massaged during operation. The extension length of the nozzle element can be 5 cm to 10 cm, for example, 6 cm.

[0083] Water is advantageously used as the liquid for operating the massage nozzle device according to the present invention. Other components may be added as needed, such as compounds that prevent the growth of bacteria and algae. Another advantageous liquid is silicone oil, which is non-toxic and non-flammable.

[0084] It is advantageous that the components of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention be made of a material that can withstand the pressure and force during operation for a long period of time. Furthermore, it is desirable that the material does not react with the components of the liquid used, and in particular has corrosion resistance. Advantageously, the components are made of a suitable plastic material. Such materials can be efficiently processed, for example, by injection molding.

[0085] The displacement of the nozzle element along its longitudinal axis from the extended position to the retracted position can be passively caused by the weight of the nozzle element.

[0086] In certain embodiments of the present invention, this displacement of the nozzle element can also be replaced by changing the geometry of the nozzle tube itself, i.e., by designing an expandable (and retractable or length-controllable) tube. For example, this can be achieved by extending the outer wall of the tube. Advantageously, this structure can also be provided only in the end region of the pipe outlet.

[0087] In an advantageous embodiment, a return element (e.g., a weight element or a return spring element) can be provided that exerts a force on the nozzle element from an extended position to a retracted position along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle tube.

[0088] In this embodiment, there is an advantage that when the nozzle element moves to the extended position, the hydraulic actuator stores the necessary potential energy in the reset element, allowing the nozzle element to be returned to the retracted position later.

[0089] In another advantageous embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the hydraulic actuator is configured to displace the nozzle element along the longitudinal axis from an extended position to a retracted position.

[0090] Advantageously, such a massage nozzle device according to the present invention has a feed conduit that supplies pressurized liquid to the nozzle element to generate an inductive liquid jet, and the feed conduit is also arranged to supply pressurized liquid to a hydraulic actuator.

[0091] In such embodiments, there is the advantage that a separate hydraulic system is not required for the hydraulic actuator of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention. The nozzle element and the hydraulic actuator can be supplied with pressurized fluid through a common system. Alternatively or additionally, an advantageous embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention comprises a hydraulic actuator, which comprises a first hollow cylinder and a first piston head, the piston head being located within the first hollow cylinder and displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position along the longitudinal axis. A nozzle tube is operationally connected to the first piston head, and when the first piston head is displaced along the longitudinal axis, the nozzle tube is also displaced along the longitudinal axis. The first hollow cylinder has an opening at one longitudinal end, through which the nozzle tube of the nozzle element extends.

[0092] In the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle tube can be positioned at a variable position along the longitudinal axis, and this movement of the nozzle in one direction is performed hydraulically. When pressure is applied to one side of the piston head in the first hollow cylinder, a hydraulic pressure along the longitudinal vector is generated by the pressure difference on both sides of the piston head.

[0093] In the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, it is advantageous that the first hollow cylinder is designed as a circular cylinder.

[0094] By making the first hollow cylinder a circular cylinder, the design of the massage nozzle device is simplified and reliable operation is ensured. In this case, the first piston head is formed circularly to match the inner cross-section of the first hollow cylinder, enabling high fitting accuracy without significant manufacturing effort.

[0095] Other cross-sectional shapes are possible for the first hollow cylinder, such as an elliptical cross-section or a rectangular cross-section with rounded edges. However, such design variations are more complex in terms of manufacturing tolerances and are prone to mechanical problems, particularly tilting of the piston head within the hollow cylinder.

[0096] The inlet opening of the nozzle tube of such a massage nozzle device according to the present invention is advantageously located within a first piston head.

[0097] This allows the pressurized fluid necessary to generate the induction fluid jet to be drawn from the hollow element of the hydraulic actuator using a nozzle tube. Therefore, the hydraulic fluid supply conduit also functions as the supply conduit for the nozzle element. This eliminates the need for a separate supply conduit for the nozzle element, simplifying the design of the massage nozzle device.

[0098] The nozzle tube inlet is centrally located at the center of the first piston head, which is particularly advantageous. This allows for the most energy-efficient and turbulent flow of liquid through the massage nozzle device to the nozzle tube outlet. Alternatively, the inlet can be positioned elsewhere, or multiple inlet openings can be provided. In any case, it is advantageous to design the inlet opening so that the force vectors transverse the longitudinal axis of the nozzle tube caused by the deflection of the liquid flow are canceled out. This avoids lateral forces that would cause the first piston head to tilt within the first hollow cylinder.

[0099] In an advantageous embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the hydraulic actuator comprises a first reset element, the first reset element applying a force along the longitudinal axis toward the retracted position within the first hollow cylinder to the first piston head.

[0100] Such reset elements assist or enable the nozzle tube to return to its original position when the fluid pressure is removed due to a decrease in the operating pressure of the fluid.

[0101] Such resetting elements can be designed, for example, as a weight attached to the nozzle element or the first piston. If the longitudinal axis is parallel to the vertical, the additional weight of the weighting element creates gravity along the longitudinal axis. As the angle between the longitudinal axis and the vertical increases, the gravity subvector along the longitudinal axis decreases with a cosine function, and the gravity subvector acting transversely to the longitudinal axis contributes to the tilt within the hollow element of the piston head; therefore, such resetting elements are essentially only effective in massage nozzle devices where the longitudinal axis is vertically aligned.

[0102] Such reset elements can also be designed as spring elements, for example, in the form of gas pressure springs or coil compression springs. Such spring elements are under tension when the nozzle element is extended from the first hollow cylinder, and the first piston head is subjected to a spring force that counteracts the fluid pressure.

[0103] Since the restoring force does not depend on the orientation of the massage nozzle device within the room, such deformable massage nozzle devices can be used in a wider range of applications.

[0104] The reset element is particularly advantageous in the form of a coil compression spring. Coil compression springs are inexpensive and require little repair. They are small and can be easily incorporated into the massage nozzle device according to the present invention.

[0105] In the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle tube is advantageously connected to or molded to a first piston head.

[0106] This design allows the fluid pressure acting on the piston head to be directly transmitted to the nozzle tube of the nozzle element to be moved, resulting in a simpler and more space-saving design for the hydraulic actuator.

[0107] In yet another advantageous embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle tube is designed with two parts, the first part being connected to or molded to a first piston head, and the second part being liquid-tightly connected to the first part and having an outlet opening. The second part of the nozzle tube is connected to or molded to a second piston head. The first part of the nozzle tube comprises a second hollow cylinder, and the second piston head of the second part of the nozzle tube is positioned to be displaceable fore and aft along the longitudinal axis between a retracted position and an extended position. This second hollow cylinder has an opening at the longitudinal end opposite to the first piston head, through which the second part of the nozzle tube extends.

[0108] This two-part nozzle tube design allows the nozzle element to extend and retract like a telescope. This reduces the overall height of the massage nozzle device relative to the maximum stroke of the nozzle tube, thereby reducing the height of the liquid container and, consequently, the overall volume.

[0109] Similarly, the nozzle tube can be made from three or more parts, with hollow cylinders arranged in a retractable manner.

[0110] The second hollow cylinder of the first component of the nozzle tube is preferably a circular cylinder. The description of the first hollow cylinder applies equally to the second hollow cylinder.

[0111] Particularly advantageous is that in such a massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle element comprises a second reset element that applies a force along the longitudinal axis toward the retracted position within the second hollow cylinder of the first part of the nozzle tube to the second piston head of the second part of the nozzle tube.

[0112] The explanation for the first reset element also applies to the second reset element.

[0113] In an advantageous embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle element has two or more outlet openings.

[0114] In the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, it is advantageous that the nozzle element has a head piece at the second longitudinal end of the nozzle tube, and the outlet opening of the nozzle element is located on the head piece.

[0115] The head piece protrudes particularly advantageously upward from the nozzle tube in a transverse direction relative to the longitudinal axis at the second longitudinal end of the nozzle tube.

[0116] The head piece of the nozzle element of such a massage nozzle device according to the present invention is advantageously mounted to be rotatable around a longitudinal axis. The head piece has one or more outlet openings, and the design is such that the liquid jets exiting from these outlet openings exert a rotational force on the head piece, causing it to rotate around the longitudinal axis.

[0117] In such embodiments of massage nozzle devices, at least one induction liquid jet can be rotated around a longitudinal axis, allowing for optimization of the liquid jet (expansion, intensity, and / or direction) and resulting in a vibratory massage effect. Depending on the orientation of the induction liquid jet, a broader massage effect can be obtained, or an equivalent massage effect can be achieved by increasing the pump pressure while reducing the liquid flow rate, resulting in greater energy efficiency.

[0118] The massage nozzle device according to the present invention can be advantageously used in the massage apparatus according to the present invention, as described above.

[0119] A fifth aspect relates to a massage device for hydromassage, particularly dry hydromassage.

[0120] The massage device according to the present invention comprises: a container filled with or fillable with liquid; a flexible membrane, the first surface of which of the membrane comes into contact with the liquid when the container is filled with liquid; at least one massage nozzle device adapted to guide a liquid jet onto the first surface of the flexible membrane; a pump device adapted to supply pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device; a control unit adapted to adjust the intensity of the guided liquid jet of a particular massage nozzle device; a pump device adapted to supply pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device; and a control unit adapted to control the pump device and / or at least one massage nozzle device in order to adjust the intensity of the guided liquid jet of a particular massage nozzle device.

[0121] In the massage device according to the present invention, force is transmitted from the liquid to the flexible membrane at the point where the liquid jet of the massage nozzle device merges with the membrane, and from the membrane to the body tissue of the user being massaged adjacent to the membrane. The user does not come into contact with the liquid because they are separated from the massage nozzle device by the membrane. Therefore, the massage device according to the present invention can be used like a mechanical massage device and has the effect of a wet massage with a water jet. The jet intensity has a balanced effect and feels comfortable to the user, and the massage effect can be adjusted to be constant or for each body area by controlling the jet intensity according to the present invention.

[0122] Since the jet intensity of the massage nozzle device affects the liquid jet, it is preferable to set it to the desired value by controlling it directly from the control unit.

[0123] Alternatively or additionally, in the massage device according to the present invention, the second surface of the membrane opposite to the first surface may also be in contact with the liquid.

[0124] For example, the massage device according to the present invention can be used in combination with a bathtub or the like, where the massage device is installed inside the bathtub, the membrane forms part of the bathtub wall, and the massage nozzle device is placed outside the bathtub.

[0125] In this embodiment, the bathwater in the bathtub can also be used as the liquid for the massage device.

[0126] However, advantageously, the two systems are separated, preventing the bath water from mixing with the massager's fluid system. Therefore, the fluid within the massager can be optimized for the application.

[0127] Water is advantageously used as the liquid in the massage nozzle device according to the present invention. Other components may be added as needed, for example, compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria and algae.

[0128] Other advantageous liquids include silicone oil, which is non-toxic and non-flammable. The massage nozzle device is a simple nozzle having a nozzle tube that can form the liquid into the most concentrated and inductive liquid jet possible, and may also be a nozzle that can bridge a certain distance in the liquid in the container of the massage device so as to reach a membrane.

[0129] It was found that the pressure difference at the massage point, i.e., the point where the guided liquid jet collides with the membrane, decreases linearly as the distance between the membrane and the nozzle outlet opening increases, compared to other points on the membrane. For example, in a specific configuration of a fixed massage nozzle device, with constant pump pressure, the pressure difference is 6.5 bar at a distance of 35 mm and 4.0 bar at a distance of 95 mm. Therefore, to achieve the same pressure difference at the massage point at a distance of 95 mm, the pump pressure must be increased, which significantly increases the pump's energy consumption by 30-50%.

[0130] In the massage device according to the present invention, advantageously, at least one massage nozzle device is the massage nozzle device according to the present invention described above.

[0131] One advantage of using the massage nozzle device according to the present invention in a massage device according to the present invention is that the position of the nozzle outlet of the nozzle element is always optimally close to the flexible membrane. Therefore, even when the distance between the nozzle outlet and the membrane is large, it is not necessary to increase the operating pressure to obtain the same massage force.

[0132] In the massage device according to the present invention, the container and the flexible membrane advantageously form a substantially closed internal volume, and at least one massage nozzle device is disposed within the closed internal volume of the container.

[0133] In the massage device according to the present invention, the position and / or orientation of at least one massage nozzle device can be changed to guide the inductive liquid jet to different points on the first surface of the flexible film.

[0134] In such embodiments, a wider membrane area can be massaged with the same number of massage nozzle devices. For example, the massage nozzle devices can be mounted on a linearly displaceable carriage.

[0135] In a more advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, a device is provided that can adjust and / or change the temperature of the liquid in a liquid container.

[0136] In yet another advantageous embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention, a heating device is provided that can adjust the temperature of the contact surface of the massage device.

[0137] Such heating devices can provide a comfortable warming sensation to the user lying on the massage device. Another advantage of such heating devices is that they eliminate the need to heat the liquid in the massage module, thus reducing energy consumption.

[0138] Advantageously, the heating device offers multiple heating zones, which the user can individually select and set to the desired temperature.

[0139] Such heating devices can be implemented using electric heating wires, for example, a thin heating hose that has been inserted.

[0140] Such a heating device is advantageously provided as a separate layer positioned between a flexible membrane and a support mat placed on top of it. This offers the particular advantage that the support mat can be easily removed for cleaning without manipulating the connections of the heating device.

[0141] Alternatively, the heating device may be integrated with or connected to a support mat placed on a flexible film.

[0142] This is particularly advantageous because the user's body, receiving the massage, comes into thermal conduction contact with the membrane and the fluid in the massage device. Raising the fluid temperature above room temperature, for example to body temperature or higher, improves user comfort and enhances the physiological benefits of the massage. Alternatively, temperatures lower than room temperature can be used, for example, for therapeutic purposes.

[0143] The massage nozzle according to the present invention is advantageously used in a massage device according to the present invention.

[0144] Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0145] To better understand the present invention, please refer to the drawings below. These are merely illustrations of the embodiments covered by the present invention. In the following drawings and related descriptions, the same or similar reference numerals are used for parts having the same or equivalent effect. [Figure 1] Figure 1 schematically shows a possible embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 schematically shows a massage device according to the present invention, which has a flexible layer between the massage module and the user's body. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows possible embodiments of the massage device according to the present invention at two different displacement positions. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the massage device according to the present invention, as shown in Figure 3, combined with a rotatably mounted armchair-shaped couch. [Figure 5] Figure 5 schematically shows another possible embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention in a side view, in which the moving curved path of the massage module follows (a) a longitudinal contour and (b) a transverse contour. [Figure 6] Figure 6 schematically shows a possible embodiment of a massage module for a massage device according to the present invention, in which the massage nozzle device is displaceable within the container of the massage module. [Figure 7] Figure 7 schematically shows another possible embodiment of a massage module for a massage device according to the present invention, comprising a plurality of selectively controllable massage nozzle devices. [Figure 8] Figure 8 schematically shows another possible embodiment of a massage module for a massage device according to the present invention, comprising a padding element having a recess for an activity area. [Figure 9] Figure 9 schematically shows various options (a) to (d) for adjusting the behavior of the flexible membrane of the massage module using structural elements. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows another embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention in a perspective view. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the massage device shown in Figure 10. [Figure 12] Figure 12 schematically shows the massage nozzle device according to the present invention within a massage device according to the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a possible embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, in which the nozzle element is partially extended. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention shown in Figure 13, where (a) is the state in which the nozzle element is fully retracted and (b) is the state in which the nozzle element is fully extended. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, which includes a reset element, (a) in the state where the nozzle element is fully retracted, and (b) in the state where the nozzle element is fully extended. [Figure 16] Figure 16 schematically shows a massage device according to the present invention, and other embodiments of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention are located at various positions along the transverse displacement path. [Figure 17] Figure 17 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, which comprises a retractable mechanism consisting of three parts, (a) in the state where the nozzle element is fully retracted, and (b) in the state where the nozzle element is fully extended. [Figure 18] Figure 18 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, comprising a retractable mechanism and a reset element consisting of three parts, where (a) is the state in which the nozzle element is fully retracted and (b) is the state in which the nozzle element is fully extended. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows a top view of a head piece of another embodiment of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, which includes a rotatable head piece.

[0146] Method for carrying out the invention

[0147] The following examples are provided to illustrate the present invention more clearly and do not limit the present invention to the features disclosed herein.

[0148] A possible embodiment of the massage device according to the present invention is schematically shown in Figure 1. The illustrated massage device 10 includes a massage module 21, a drive module 24, a pump module 22, and a control module 23.

[0149] The massage module 21, schematically shown in a longitudinal section in Figure 1, comprises a substantially tightly sealed container 26 consisting of a trough-shaped rigid wall 262 and closed with a flexible membrane 27. The container 26 is filled with a liquid 40, such as water or silicone oil. The massage nozzle device 51 is positioned on the container wall opposite the membrane 27 and oriented toward the membrane 27.

[0150] The massage nozzle device 51 can be advantageously implemented as the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention, as disclosed in Figures 11 to 19. However, a conventional nozzle device can also be used.

[0151] The pump module 22 is equipped with a pump 221, which draws liquid 40 from the container 26 of the massage module 21 via a drain conduit 223 and returns it to the massage module 21 under pressure via a supply conduit 222. Within the massage module 21, the conduit 222 opens to a massage nozzle device 51.

[0152] In the illustrated embodiment, the pump module 22 also includes an optional liquid reservoir 224. For example, the pump 221 can draw liquid 40 from the reservoir 224 to increase the amount of liquid in the container 26. Conversely, the pump can also pump liquid into the reservoir 224 to decrease the amount of liquid in the container.

[0153] The massage nozzle device 51 generates a liquid jet 42 that moves through the stagnant liquid 40 in the container 26 and strikes the massage activity area 217 on the inner surface 271 of the flexible membrane 27. Due to the momentum and kinetic energy of the impacting liquid, the flexible membrane 217 is pushed outward in this effective area 217, and the liquid in the jet 42 diffuses into the stagnant liquid 40. If there is resistance to the force of the liquid jet, for example, if there is body tissue of the user being massaged, a force Fm acts on the body tissue in the effective area 217. This massage effect is similar to hydromassage, where the liquid jet exerts force, but unlike a mechanical actuator, it is less likely to feel "hard" or "uncomfortable." The massage effect is rather closer to a hand massage, and the fluid jet is not as rigid as a mechanical actuator, responding more obediently when there is greater resistance, for example, in areas where bone is close to the body surface.

[0154] The drive module 24 is configured to move the massage module 21 and the container in space, for example, along the x-axis. In this way, the effective range 217 of the massage module 21 can also be moved, allowing different parts of the user's body to be massaged. The aforementioned movement of the massage module 21 can be achieved by the drive module 24 using appropriate actuators and transport means.

[0155] The control module 23 is configured to control the massage module 21, the drive module 24, and / or the pump module 22 as needed. For this reason, the control module 23 is connected to the other modules 21, 22, and 24 of the massage device 10 via control lines.

[0156] For example, the control module is configured to control the massage nozzle device 51, and can, for example, switch the massage nozzle device on or off by a valve in the supply conduit 222. Depending on the structure and function of the massage nozzle device 51, it may also be possible to control, for example, the thickness and diffusion angle of the liquid jet 42. The control module can also be configured to control, for example, the actuators of the drive module.

[0157] Alternatively, the control module 23 can instruct the drive module 24 to move the massage module 21 to its target position, and the drive module 24 can then move to that position using its internal controller.

[0158] Furthermore, the control module can, for example, control the operating pressure and discharge rate of the pump module 21 so that the liquid jet 42 has desired characteristics (e.g., speed, flow rate). This can be achieved, in particular, by controlling the output of the pump 221.

[0159] Because the massage module 21 and the massage action area 217 are movable, the volume of the container can be reduced compared to the prior art. Therefore, the overall weight of the massage device 10 can be reduced, especially because the amount of liquid can be reduced. Furthermore, even when the container 26 is inclined and not horizontal (e.g., in a massage chair) and the membrane 27 is exposed to a hydrostatic pressure gradient, this pressure gradient is significantly smaller than in the prior art. Therefore, the adverse effects of this pressure difference are also reduced, and corresponding technical countermeasures can be omitted. For example, in the prior art, if the flexible membrane of a fixedly mounted inclined massage module extends 1 m vertically, when filled with water, a hydrostatic pressure of approximately 10 kPa acts on the flexible membrane at the lower end of the container. On the other hand, in the massage device according to the present invention, where the container extends only 0.2 m vertically, the hydrostatic pressure is only 2 kPa, even though the same effective range is obtained.

[0160] The massage device according to the present invention can be designed so that the massage module, more precisely the massage area of ​​the flexible membrane, acts directly on the user's body. However, since the massage module is movable in the present invention, in an advantageous embodiment, the movable massage module is separated from the user's body by a fixed flexible layer. In particular, this allows the massage module to be easily moved even when the user is already on the massage device.

[0161] A schematic diagram of such a solution is shown in Figure 2. The user receiving the massage (not shown) is, for example, on a bed surface or a flexible layer 115 designed as the backrest of the massage device. The massage module 21 is positioned on the opposite side of the flexible layer 115 from the user. The flexible membrane 27 of the massage module is in contact with the flexible layer. When the massage module is activated, the generated fluid jet pushes the flexible membrane 27 outward (upward in the illustrated example) in the effective area 217. This also deforms the flexible layer 115, allowing the massage module 21 to apply force to the user's body.

[0162] The massage module 21 and / or the drive module (not shown) of the massage device can be controlled according to the desired massage effect. For example, by alternately adjusting and stopping the liquid jets, a vibrating force effect (indicated by vertical double arrows) can be obtained in the massage action area 217. If it is desired to move the massage action area to another part of the body, the drive module moves the massage module 21 parallel to the flexible layer 115 to the desired target position. During this displacement, the massage module can be kept inactive and the massage can be restarted at the new target position. Alternatively, the massage module may be kept active during the displacement so that the expanded massage action area 217 moves with the massage module 21. Such displacement can also be performed in a vibrating pattern (indicated by horizontal double arrows). It is also possible to combine vibrating massage action with horizontal displacement.

[0163] A possible embodiment of the massage device 10 according to the present invention is shown in Figure 3. The massage device 10 comprises a massage module 21, a pump module 22, a drive module 24, and a control module (not shown).

[0164] The drive module 24 comprises two linear drive units arranged in a cross pattern, thereby enabling the massage module 21 to move along two horizontal movement axes x and y. Two running rails 243a are positioned on the first support plate 244a of the drive module 24. The second support plate 244b is mounted on the running rails 243a via four carriages and is capable of rolling movement. The first linear drive unit is in the form of a spindle drive unit and comprises a servo motor 241a and a threaded spindle 242a (e.g., a ball screw or trapezoidal screw), the threaded spindle 242a passing through a spindle nut (not shown) mounted below the second support plate 244b. The rotation of the drive spindle 242a by the servo motor 241a is converted into linear movement of the second support plate 244b in the x-axis direction. Similarly, two running rails 243b are arranged on the second support plate 244b, and a third support plate 244c with four carriages is positioned thereon so as to be able to roll and displace. The second linear drive is in the form of a spindle drive, comprising a servo motor 241b and a threaded spindle 242b, the threaded spindle 242b passing through a spindle nut (not shown) mounted below the third support plate 244c. Similarly, the rotation of the drive spindle 242b by the servo motor 241b is converted into linear movement of the third support plate 244c in the y-axis direction.

[0165] A frame is positioned on the third support plate 244c, on which the pump module 22 and massage module 21 are mounted. The massage module 21 has a liquid-filled container 26, which has a trough-shaped rigid wall and is closed on the upper side with a flexible membrane 27. The flexible membrane is designed as a support mat. In this description, a support mat means a flexible and elastic mat made of an elastomer polymer material. The support mat may also be made of, for example, natural rubber or synthetic rubber material. The elastomer polymer material may also be designed as an open or closed foam.

[0166] The walls of the bathtub are partially transparent, allowing the massage nozzle device 51 and the inlet opening of the drain conduit 223, located at the bottom of the bathtub, to be seen.

[0167] The pump module 22 includes a pump 221, which draws liquid from the container 26 via a drain conduit 223 and delivers it under pressure to the massage nozzle device 51 via a supply conduit 222. The liquid ejected at high speed from the massage nozzle device 51 is aligned within the container 26 toward the flexible membrane 27, forming a liquid jet that eventually strikes the flexible membrane 27. When the liquid jet strikes the flexible membrane 27, the flexible membrane 27 is pushed outward in the massage action area 217.

[0168] The drive module 24, together with the third support plate 244c, can move the massage module 21 and the pump module 22 to any desired position within the range of motion. For example, Figures 3(a) and (b) show the massage module 21 of the massage device 10 at two different positions on the movement axes x and y. Thus, the effective range 217 of the massage module 21 can be positioned throughout the entire range of motion. Such a massage device can perform massage in the same effective range as conventional massage devices where a container covers the entire massage area and a massage nozzle device moves within the container.

[0169] The massage device 10 can be positioned horizontally as shown in Figure 3 above, and can be used, for example, as part of a horizontal massage table. Alternatively, the massage device 10 can be positioned at an angle, and can be used, for example, as part of a massage chair 11. A schematic modification of such an embodiment of the massage device 10 according to the present invention is shown in Figure 4. The massage device 10 has a chair 11 on which a user 91 sits. The chair 11 comprises a backrest 112, a seat 113, and a leg rest 114. A headrest 116 is displaceably positioned on the backrest 112, allowing the massage device to be adapted to the user 91's physique.

[0170] In the central area where the user 91 leans their back, the backrest 112 is designed as a flexible layer 115, which is, for example, made of a flexible, load-bearing film or a fine-mesh flexible net. The massage module 21, pump module, and drive module 24 are the same as those in Figure 3 and are located below the backrest 112 of the chair 11. Modules 21, 22, 24 and the chair 11 are mounted on a common frame (not shown). The drive module 24 allows the massage module to move within the plane of the backrest 112, so that the massage action area of ​​the massage module 21 can reach the entire flexible layer 115 of the backrest.

[0171] The chair 11 and modules 21, 22, and 23 are swivelably mounted on a base frame (not shown) and can swivel within a predetermined angular range around a horizontal pivot axis 122. This allows the user 91 to assume a more upright or more reclined position as needed.

[0172] Advantageously, in addition to the headrest 116, the position and orientation of the seat 113 and leg rest 114 relative to the backrest 112 can also be changed, making it easy to adapt the chair 111 to users of various body types.

[0173] In the embodiment described above, the flexible layer 115 on which the massage module 21 is displaceably positioned extends above the backrest 112 of the chair 11 of the massage device 10. In another embodiment, as schematically shown in Figure 5(a), the flexible layer extends along the entire length of the chair 11. The rail system (shown by dashed lines) of the drive module of the massage device 10 is located beneath the flexible layer. This drive module is designed to move the massage module 21 along the movement path P while maintaining a constant distance from the flexible layer 115. The massage module 21 always remains aligned perpendicular to the flexible layer 115. This allows the massage module 21 to massage the entire area of ​​the chair 11 and reach all positions along its longitudinal direction. For example, the user's back can be massaged first, followed by the leg area.

[0174] The drive module for such a massage device 10 can be realized, for example, by placing a slidable carriage on parallel rails and mounting the massage module 21 on the carriage.

[0175] In the embodiment described above, it is preferable that the pump module does not move with the massage module but is permanently attached to a chair or support frame (not shown). The pump module (not shown) and the massage module 21 are connected via a flexible conduit.

[0176] As shown in the illustrated embodiment, two massage modules 21 can also be arranged along the movement path P. Advantageously, these can be moved independently by the drive module. Such a solution allows for parallel massage of different areas of the user's body.

[0177] Alternatively or additionally, the massage device 10 of the present invention can also move the massage module 21 along a transversely curved movement path P relative to the chair, as schematically shown in Figure 5(b). In this way, even if the chair's flexible layer 115 is concave in cross-section, a constant distance can be maintained between the massage module 21 and the flexible layer. Such a drive device can be realized, for example, by arranging the massage module 21 on a carriage that runs on two rails curved along the movement path P.

[0178] In a particularly advantageous embodiment combining the movements of Figures 5(a) and 5(b), the transverse drive unit of Figure 5(b) can be positioned on the carriage, and the carriage itself can be displaced on the rail of Figure 5(a). In this way, the massage module can reach all parts of the chair surface, even if the shape is complex.

[0179] In the massage device described above, the massage module comprises only a massage nozzle device 51 fixedly mounted on the base of the container 26. Alternatively, the massage nozzle device can be designed to be displaceable, as schematically shown in Figure 6. In such an embodiment, the massage nozzle device 51 of the massage module 21 is displaceable within the container 26 by an actuator (not shown), such as a linear drive or a swivel arm. The massage action area 217 on the flexible membrane 27 also moves accordingly. The actuator for moving the massage nozzle device is preferably controlled via the control module 23 of the massage device 10.

[0180] Figure 7 shows a further advantageous embodiment of the massage device 10 of the present invention. Multiple massage nozzle devices 51 are arranged at regular intervals at the bottom of the container 26 of the massage module 21. A supply pump 221 of the pump module 22 draws liquid from inside the container via a drain conduit 223 and delivers it to the massage nozzle devices 51 via a supply conduit 222. A control module 23 controls each massage nozzle device 51. For example, each massage nozzle device 51 is provided with an electrically controllable valve that can switch on or off the liquid supply from the supply conduit 222. By selectively activating each massage nozzle device 51 in this way, a liquid jet 42 can be generated that produces an outward force in the effective area of ​​the flexible membrane assigned to each device. In the shown embodiment, the first, third, and sixth massage nozzle devices 51 are activated as viewed from the left, thereby causing the massage module 21 to apply force to the user's body (not shown) in the first, third, and sixth massage activity areas 217.

[0181] Figure 8 shows a further advantageous embodiment of the massage module 21 for a massage device of the present invention. A massage nozzle device 51 capable of generating a liquid jet 42 toward a flexible membrane 27 is arranged inside a container 26. Inside the container are padding elements 215 connected to the wall 262 and / or the flexible membrane 27. For example, the flexible membrane 27 may be stretched over a padding element 251 attached to the wall 262. The rounded outer edge of the padding element 251 prevents it from catching on an upwardly positioned flexible layer (not shown) when the massage module 21 is displaced horizontally. An opening 226 is provided in the center of the padding element 251, through which the liquid jet 42 can reach the inside of the flexible membrane 217.

[0182] The flexible membrane 27 for the massage module may have a uniform shape. Alternatively, its mechanical properties can be modified by adding specific structural elements 253. Figures 9(a) to (d) show different variations of the flexible membrane 27 modified in this way.

[0183] Figure 9(a) shows a section of the flexible membrane 27 in which an annular structural element 253 is arranged. The structural element 215 can be formed, for example, by locally thickening the material of the flexible membrane 27, or it can be realized as an annular member bonded to the outside or inside of the membrane. When a liquid jet is directed towards the surface of the flexible membrane 27 facing the container, it is pushed outward in the effective region 217, generating a massaging force. The structural element 253 restricts the deformation of the membrane to the inside of the annular structural element 253 by increasing the strength of this region of the flexible membrane 27. Such a structural element 253 may have a rectangular design, for example, as shown in Figure 9(b).

[0184] Multiple structural elements 253 can be arranged adjacent to each other, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 9(c). Multiple hexagonal structural elements 253 form a honeycomb pattern on the flexible film 27. The structural elements 253 can be realized, for example, as ribs molded or bonded onto the film. The honeycomb pattern defines multiple effective regions 217 within each hexagon.

[0185] Finally, Figure 9(d) shows a further advantageous modification of the structural element 253 for the flexible membrane 27. The structural element 253 is a slender flexible pressure conduit that can be filled with a liquid or gas and is attached to the flexible membrane 27 in a loop. The pressure conduit extends from a first fluid connection 254 to a sealed end 255 of the conduit. When pressurized fluid, particularly compressed air, is filled into the conduit 253 via the fluid connection 254, the conduit 253 hardens. At this time, the structural element 253 acts and limits the effective range 217 of the flexible membrane 27. Subsequently, when the fluid pressure is released from the conduit 253, the conduit 253 becomes flexible again, and the mobility of the flexible membrane 27 is no longer restricted by the deactivation of the structural element 253. Such embodiments of the flexible membrane make it possible to change the mechanical properties of the flexible membrane 27 in a time-variable manner. For example, the structural element 253 can be activated only when the massage nozzle device is operating in the corresponding effective area 217.

[0186] The structured flexible membrane can be used not only in massage devices equipped with the movable massage module described above, but also in massage devices of the present invention equipped with a statically mounted massage module.

[0187] Figures 10 and 11 show embodiments of the massage device 10 of the present invention, which includes a statically mounted massage module 21.

[0188] Frames 123 and 123' are mounted on the support frame 121 so as to be rotatable around a horizontal pivot axis 122. The chair 11 is positioned on frames 123 and 123', and a user 91 of the massage device 10 can sit on it. The chair 11 includes a leg support 114, a seat 113, a backrest 112, and a headrest 111. A thin support mat is placed on the chair 11, but it is omitted in Figures 10 and 11 to make the elements underneath easier to see. The exterior of the massage device 10 is also not shown.

[0189] The massage module 21 and the control module 23 are located at the rear 123' of the frame below the backrest 112. The massage module 21 comprises a container 26 having a bathtub-shaped rigid wall 262, a flexible membrane 27 that closes it, and an adjacent rigid cover 263.

[0190] In the area of ​​the backrest 112, a thin support mat (not shown) is placed directly on the flexible membrane 27 of the massage module 21. In this area, the thin support mat forms a flexible layer. The support mat and the flexible membrane 27 work together to form the backrest 112. The rigid cover 263 of the container 26 is located below the seat 113.

[0191] Two massage nozzle devices 51 are positioned within the liquid-filled container 26, movable by actuators, allowing liquid jets to reach almost every point on the flexible membrane 27 in the backrest area.

[0192] The pump 221 of the pump module is located at the front of the frame 123 below the leg support 114 and draws liquid from the container 26 via a drain conduit 223. A supply conduit 222 leads from the pump 221 to the container wall 262. Inside the container, the supply conduit branches into two flexible supply conduits 214, which lead to two movably positioned massage nozzle devices 51.

[0193] Positioning the pump 221 below the leg rest has the advantage of making the weight distribution of the rotating part of the massage device 10 relatively even with respect to the pivot axis 122.

[0194] The pump can also be positioned in other locations, such as the support frame 121 below the swivel section. In this case, the pump is connected to the massage module 21 via flexible hoses 222 and 223, rather than a rigid pipe.

[0195] In the massage device 10 described above, the container 26 of the massage module 21 may be completely filled with liquid. Preferably, the flexible membrane 27 of the massage module 21 is provided with structural elements that can modify the mechanical properties of the membrane in a desired manner. For example, the structural elements are designed as a net structure, such as a honeycomb net, and are attached to the flexible elastic polymer membrane 27. The structural elements provide a certain tensile strength to the entire flexible membrane so that it can withstand the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid inside the container 26. In the gaps of the mesh structure, the membrane is sufficiently flexible and elastic, and the water jet from the massage nozzle device 51 pushes the membrane outward, achieving a massage effect.

[0196] The illustrated massage device 10 can also be operated when partially filled with liquid. In this case, it is preferable that the container 26 of the massage module 21 is filled with liquid up to near the transition point from the lower end of the flexible membrane 27 to the upper end of the rigid cover 263. In this way, the hydrostatic pressure of the liquid acts only on the rigid members 262 and 263 of the container 26. Therefore, additional structural reinforcement of the flexible membrane 27 is unnecessary. In this case, the liquid jet generated by the massage nozzle device 51 travels through the air until it hits the flexible membrane 27. The reflected liquid flows down by gravity and collects in a liquid-filled area located below the container, which functions as a pump sump. The inlet opening 225 of the drain conduit 223 of the pump module 22 is located at the lower end of this area to prevent the pump 221 from running dry even when handling a large volume of liquid.

[0197] In advantageous modifications, the volume of the pump sump area of ​​the massage module's container can be modified, for example, by providing a pneumatically inflatable cushion in this area. The volume of the inflatable cushion can be reduced or increased if the amount of liquid in the container changes, or if the chair of the massage device rotates, changing the liquid level in the container. This causes the liquid level in the container to change vertically. Such volume changes can also be achieved, for example, by adjusting the insertion or withdrawal of a piston through the container wall.

[0198] The support mat can be equipped with a heating device, which can provide the user with a comfortable warming sensation. Such a heating device also has the advantage of reducing energy consumption because it does not require heating the liquid in the massage module.

[0199] Advantageously, the heating device has multiple heating zones, allowing the user to individually select and set the temperature of the desired heating zone.

[0200] Such heating devices can be implemented by inserting a heating wire or, for example, a thin heating hose.

[0201] Such a heating device is advantageous when provided as a separate layer that can be positioned between the flexible membrane 27 and the support mat. This offers the unique advantage of allowing the support mat to be easily removed and cleaned without having to manipulate the connection points of the heating device.

[0202] Furthermore, the heating device can be integrated into the support mat or connected to the support mat.

[0203] Another advantageous embodiment of the massage device 10' comprising the massage module 21' and massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention is schematically shown in Figure 12.

[0204] The massage module 21' of the massage device 10' comprises a container 26 having a flexible membrane 27 on its upper side. The container is filled with liquid 40. The massage nozzle device 51a is located inside the container 26.

[0205] The massage nozzle device 51a comprises a nozzle element 70 and a hydraulic actuator 80. The nozzle element 70 has a nozzle tube 72 and is positioned to generate an inductive liquid jet 42. The inductive liquid jet 42 is directed perpendicularly to the flexible membrane 27 of the massage device 10', and the liquid jet 42 exerts an essentially outward force Fm on the membrane 27 at the point of impact 274 due to its momentum and kinetic energy. This causes the membrane 27 to deform locally (not shown), exerting a force on the user's body placed on the membrane 27 during a predetermined operation of the massage device 10', thereby achieving the desired massage effect.

[0206] The nozzle element 70 is supplied with pressurized liquid 41 via the feed conduit 222', and the nozzle tube 72 forms an induction liquid jet 42.

[0207] The hydraulic actuator 80 is configured to move the nozzle element 70 from a retracted position (shown by a dashed line) to an extended position along the longitudinal axis 511 of the nozzle tube 72. For example, the nozzle element 70 can be simply attached to the actuator element of the hydraulic actuator 80 that moves along the longitudinal axis 511. The hydraulic actuator 80 can be designed, for example, as a hydraulic piston, particularly an expandable cylinder. However, the hydraulic actuator 80 can also be realized in a different way, for example, as an expandable bellows.

[0208] The hydraulic actuator 80 is supplied with pressurized fluid 41 via the feed conduit 222. The pump device 221 supplies pressurized fluid 41 to the feed conduits 222 and 222' and draws depressurized fluid 40 directly from the reservoir 26 or via the intermediate reservoir 224a as shown in the figure.

[0209] Instead of the separate supply conduits 222, 222' for the pressurized fluid 41 as shown in the figure, the pressurized fluid 41 can also be supplied within the massage nozzle device 51a from the nozzle element 70 to the hydraulic actuator 80, or from the hydraulic actuator 80 to the nozzle element 70.

[0210] The pump device 221 can be positioned on the outside of the container as shown in the figure, which facilitates maintenance. Alternatively, it can be positioned inside the container as a submersible pump.

[0211] A control unit 230 is provided to control the pump device 221 and / or the massage nozzle device 51a via control lines 231, 232, and 233. In the pump device, for example, the pump pressure and the discharge volume can be controlled. In the massage nozzle device 51a, the control unit 230 can control the function of the hydraulic actuator 80 and / or the nozzle element 70 by switching the corresponding valve (not shown).

[0212] Such a control unit 230 is advantageously integrated into a higher-level control module 23 of the massage device 10' and also controls other functions of the massage device 10' or massage module 21'.

[0213] Each control line 231, 232, and 233 can be arranged as an electrical wiring or a hydraulic switching line. For elements 70 and 80 in the container 26 filled with liquid 40, hydraulic lines 232 and 233 are particularly advantageous from a safety standpoint.

[0214] The control unit 230 is configured to achieve a desired force effect at the impact point 274. For this purpose, the control unit 230 can, for example, adjust the operating pressure of the pump device 221. By controlling the hydraulic unit, the control unit 230 can change the distance between the nozzle element 70 and the membrane 27 to a desired position of the nozzle element along the longitudinal axis 511. Furthermore, the control unit 230 can, using appropriate means within the nozzle element 70, widen or narrow the liquid jet 42, for example, by an orifice in the nozzle tube 72.

[0215] As an advantageous embodiment, a massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention is shown in Figures 13 and 14. The massage nozzle device 51a comprises a hydraulic actuator 80 and a nozzle element 70 that is hydraulically extendable from the hydraulic actuator 80. The hydraulic actuator 80 is fluidically connected to a feed pipe 60, and during operation, a fluid, preferably water or an aqueous solution, is supplied to the massage nozzle device 51a under pressure from a pump (neither of which is shown) via a conduit.

[0216] Advantageously, at least some components are made of plastic by injection molding, and the choice of material depends on the forces and pressures acting on them. Alternatively, metal materials can also be used, for example, by powder injection molding.

[0217] In the massage device according to the present invention, the massage nozzle device of the invention is installed inside a closed liquid container (not shown), the interior 261 is filled with liquid 40. One wall of the liquid container is designed as a flexible and elastic membrane 27. The massage nozzle device 51a is oriented so that when in operation, an inductive liquid jet 42 is directed toward the membrane 27. The massage nozzle device 51a is completely submerged in the liquid. Because the membrane is flexible, the pressure of the liquid 40 inside the liquid container is essentially equal to the pressure on the second surface 272 of the membrane 27 facing away from the liquid container.

[0218] The hydraulic actuator 80 in the illustrated embodiment of the massage nozzle device 51a comprises a hollow element 82 in the form of a hollow cylinder with a diameter d3, and a piston head 75 that can be pushed back and forth along the longitudinal axis 511 from a first position (see Figure 14(a)) to a second position (see Figure 14(b)). The hollow element has two retaining claws 825 on its exterior, which allow the hollow element 82 or the massage nozzle device to be held, for example, with pliers.

[0219] The piston head 75 is formed at the first longitudinal end 721 of the nozzle element 70 on the nozzle tube 72. The nozzle tube 72 has an outer diameter d2 and an inner diameter d1 and is aligned along the longitudinal axis 511. The nozzle tube 72 protrudes from the nozzle-side opening 821 of the hydraulic actuator 80 at the second longitudinal end 824 of the hollow cylinder 82. A head piece 74 is formed at the second longitudinal end 722 of the nozzle tube 72. The tube cavity 77 of the nozzle tube 72 opens to the nozzle outlet 73 at the center of the head piece 74.

[0220] The piston head 75 divides the internal volume of the hollow cylinder 82 into a first half-space 831 at the first longitudinal end 823 and a second half-space 832 at the second longitudinal end 823. A feed opening 85 is located at the upstream first longitudinal end 823 of the hollow cylinder 82, and pressurized liquid is transported through this feed opening 85 to the first half-space 831 of the hollow cylinder 82. The liquid passes through the inside of the nozzle tube 77 to the pressurized nozzle outlet opening 73, where an induction liquid jet 42 is formed. Due to its momentum, this jet 42 continues to move through the same but stationary liquid 40 and eventually strikes the first surface 271 of the membrane 27. In this process, the liquid jet is deflected (43), and a force Fm is exerted on the first surface of the membrane 27. This force pushes the elastic membrane 27 outward in a localized area 273 in the direction of movement of the jet 42, deforming the membrane. Therefore, the membrane 27 can transmit a force Fm outward in the deformed region 273. In this way, the liquid jet 42 acts as a mechanical actuator, generating the desired massage effect.

[0221] Due to turbulence in the peripheral zone of the liquid jet 42, kinetic energy is lost as the liquid jet 42 passes through the stagnant liquid 40, and this is converted into thermal energy. As a result, the force Fm that can be transmitted to the membrane decreases accordingly. This can be compensated for by increasing the liquid supply pressure to increase the flow velocity of the liquid jet 42 at the nozzle outlet 73. However, this significantly increases the energy consumption of the pump device.

[0222] The massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention can reduce and avoid energy loss of the liquid jet 42 moving through the liquid 40 by minimizing the distance D between the nozzle outlet 27 and the membrane 27.

[0223] In the inactive state of the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention, since no fluid is being pumped into the massage nozzle device 51a, the nozzle element 70 retracts completely into the hydraulic actuator 80 by its own weight. The head piece 74 of the nozzle element 70 is substantially flush with the second longitudinal end 824 of the hollow cylinder 82. The piston head 75 is in a first position at the first longitudinal end 233 of the hollow cylinder.

[0224] At the start of operation (see Figure 14(a)), liquid is pumped into the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention and fills the first semi-cavity 831 of the hollow cylinder 82. From there, the liquid continues to flow through the tube cavity 77 of the nozzle tube 72 to the nozzle outlet 73 due to the differential pressure Δp. Since the cross-sectional area πd32 of the piston head is larger than the cross-sectional area πd12 of the tube cavity 77, a liquid pressure Fk is simultaneously generated and acts on the entire piston head 75 and nozzle element 70 along the longitudinal axis 511 in the direction of the second longitudinal end 824 of the hollow cylinder 82. When the cross-sectional area of ​​the tube cavity 77 is negligibly small (d12 << d32), the pressure loss due to the liquid passing through the nozzle tube 72 is minimized, and the liquid pressure Fk is Fk = Δp(d32 - d12)π / 4. However, since the situation is not actually static, the resulting liquid pressure is somewhat lower.

[0225] The fluid pressure acting on the piston head 75 pushes the nozzle element 70 out of the hollow cylinder 82 until the nozzle outlet opening 73 is near the membrane 27 (see Figure 14(b)). When the operating pressure of the massage nozzle device is constant, the force exerted by the liquid jet 42 on the membrane 27 is substantially increased as the distance the liquid jet 42 travels through the stationary liquid 40 is significantly reduced, thereby decreasing kinetic energy loss due to turbulence. During extension, the volume of the first half-space 831 of the hollow cylinder increases, and the volume of the second half-space 832 decreases.

[0226] The second, maximum extension position of the nozzle element 70 is defined by a stopper 826 in which the hollow cylinder wall protrudes toward the longitudinal axis 511, and the piston head 75 abuts against the stopper 826 at the second position.

[0227] However, this maximum extension position is only reached if a dynamic equilibrium has not been established beforehand between the outward-acting fluid pressure Fk on the piston head and the reaction force generated on the head piece 74 of the nozzle element 70 by the fluid jet 43 deflected by the membrane 27. For example, in Figure 14(b), such a dynamic equilibrium exists, and the nozzle element is held just before the maximum position.

[0228] When the pressure pump corresponding to the massage nozzle device 51a is switched off, the hydraulic pressure Fk acting on the piston head becomes zero. The nozzle element 80 automatically retracts into the hydraulic actuator 80 and moves until the piston head 75 contacts the stopper 827 in the first position (see Figure 14(a)). This reset movement is passively driven only by the weight of the nozzle element. However, this passive returning force requires that the longitudinal axis 511 is positioned nearly perpendicularly.

[0229] Since the restoring force is offset by the buoyancy of the nozzle element 70 in the liquid 40, it is advantageous to add weight to the nozzle element with additional weights, especially when the nozzle element is made of a low-density material such as plastic. For example, placing a metal sleeve around the nozzle tube increases the weight of the nozzle element, thereby increasing the restoring force due to gravity.

[0230] In the illustrated embodiment, the head piece 74 of the nozzle element 70 is designed as a spherical segmented flange. The shape of the head piece 74 is advantageously selected to prevent damage to the film in the event of unintended contact with the nozzle element and to optimize the flow of the deflected liquid jet 43.

[0231] In the illustrated embodiment, the feed pipe 60 is designed as an elbow 61. The feed pipe 60 is provided with fixing elements 64 for fixing to other structures. Thus, the feed pipe 60 also functions as a support platform for the massage nozzle device 51a of the present invention. The fixing elements 64 are integrally molded with the actual feed pipe body and include a plurality of hardening elements 642a to 642e and a plurality of fixing points 641 in the form of through holes.

[0232] The illustrated feed pipe 60 has a hose fitting 62 at its upstream end, and a fluid supply conduit in the form of an elastic hose is fluid-tightly attached to the hose fitting 62, for example, by placing the hose over the hose connector 62 and securing it geometrically and mechanically with a hose clamp. The feed pipe has an externally threaded connecting piece 63 at its downstream end, which is screwed into a corresponding internally threaded connection 84 of the hydraulic actuator 80.

[0233] Since the massage nozzle device 26 is completely submerged in the liquid 261 from which the nozzle element 70 releases the liquid jet 42 during operation, absolute airtightness of the fluid connection between the feed pipe 60 and the hydraulic actuator 80 of the massage nozzle device 10' is of secondary importance. However, excessive leakage reduces energy efficiency, so pressure loss due to leakage must be compensated for by increasing the operating pressure of the pump device. Therefore, it is advantageous to ensure the most airtight connection possible by using an additional sealant such as an O-ring between the connecting piece 63 and the hydraulic actuator 80, or by wrapping Teflon tape around the external threads of the connecting piece 63.

[0234] Further advantageous embodiments of the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention are shown in Figure 15. The appearance of the massage nozzle device is identical to that shown in Figure 13. The various components and the basic operating modes of the massage nozzle device 51a are substantially the same as those of the massage nozzle device in Figure 15. Therefore, only additional features will be described below.

[0235] The illustrated massage nozzle device 51a has a reset element 86 in the form of a helical compression spring. The reset element is located in a second half-space 832 of the hollow cylinder 82, between a stopper element 826 and the upper end of the piston head 75. The nozzle tube 72 extends through the helical compression spring 86.

[0236] The reset element 86 plays the role of returning the nozzle element 70 to its retracted position even without a reset force due to the weight of the nozzle element 70 after the pressure pump switch is turned off, and is therefore independent of the orientation of the massage nozzle device 51a in space. Furthermore, the reset element is intended to assist the dynamic movement of the nozzle element when the distance between the hydraulic actuator and the membrane changes, which will be described later.

[0237] When the nozzle element 70 is fully retracted (see Figure 15(a)), the helical compression spring 86 is almost relaxed. When the massage nozzle device is operated, the fluid pressure acting on the piston head moves the nozzle element 70 along its longitudinal axis to a second extended position. The maximum extended position of the nozzle element is geometrically defined by the state in which the helical compression spring is fully compressed. When the nozzle outlet 73 reaches the membrane 27 and a stable equilibrium is established between the fluid pressure on the piston head and the reaction force of the deflected liquid jet 43 and the restoring force of the return element 86, the nozzle element 70 comes to rest as shown in Figure 15(b).

[0238] As the nozzle element 70 extends, the hydraulic pressure acting on the piston head 75 must overcome the increasing spring force of the compressed helical compression spring 86. Advantageously, the helical compression spring 86 is designed so that even when fully compressed, it does not exceed the hydraulic spring force at a given operating pressure of the massage nozzle device 51a. Particularly advantageous, the spring constant of the helical compression spring 86 is set to a degree sufficient to return the nozzle element to its retracted position.

[0239] The nozzle element 70 of the massage nozzle device 51a in Figure 15 has less extension than the nozzle element of the massage nozzle device in Figure 14, even when the overall height is the same. However, the massage nozzle device can operate at any position, even if the longitudinal axis is not parallel to the vertical. Therefore, such an embodiment of the massage nozzle device 51a is particularly suitable for massage devices in the form of a massage chair, for example.

[0240] Furthermore, the massage nozzle device according to the present invention can be advantageously used in combination with the device described in WO 2020 / 074046 A1. The operating modes and structure of the solution can be referenced from the corresponding description. In this case, the water jet described herein is replaced by the massage nozzle device and its functional elements of the present invention, and the controls provided herein are also applied.

[0241] When massaging a user's body tissue using the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the force acting locally on the body surface through the membrane generally changes in time and / or space. A temporal change in massage force can be achieved, for example, by changing the pump pressure over time. On the other hand, a spatial change in the massage area can be achieved by changing the position of the massage nozzle device.

[0242] Figure 16 schematically shows a massage device 10' in which the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention is spatially displaced during operation to obtain a desired massage effect.

[0243] The massage device 10' comprises a closed liquid container 26 consisting of a schematically shown wall 262 and a flexible membrane 27. The user's body 91 being massaged is positioned on the upper outer membrane 27. The illustrated schematic embodiment can be understood as a massage table on which the user lies on the flexible upper side of the liquid container 26. Like a waterbed, the membrane 27 conforms to the shape of the user's body.

[0244] An embodiment of the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention is placed inside a liquid container 261 and is displaceable horizontally using a suitable actuator device (not shown). Various solutions for moving an object to different positions in a plane are well known to those skilled in the art, such as linear actuators mounted to intersect each other.

[0245] The pump device 221 draws liquid 40 from the liquid container 261 via the supply conduit 223 and delivers it under pressure to the massage nozzle device 51a via the pressure conduit 222. The pressure conduit 222 is advantageously designed as a flexible structure, such as an armored hose or a metal hose, so that it can follow the movement of the massage nozzle device 51a.

[0246] The pump device 221 can either draw liquid directly from the liquid container 261 or from a reservoir filled with liquid from the liquid container 261. If multiple massage nozzle devices are present, they can be supplied by a common pump device or by individual pump devices.

[0247] Similar to the embodiments described above, the massage nozzle device 51a comprises a hydraulic actuator 80 having a hollow cylinder 82 and a piston head 75, the piston head 75 having a nozzle tube 72 of a nozzle element 70 formed thereon. A hemispherical head piece 74 is formed at the longitudinal end opposite the nozzle tube 72, and the nozzle tube 72 opens into this head piece 74. A pressure conduit 222 (shown schematically only) is connected via a hose connector 871 formed on the hollow cylinder 82.

[0248] In position I on the left side of Figure 16, the nozzle element 70 is extended by approximately 3 / 4, and the head piece 74 is in the vicinity of the membrane 27. The liquid jet (not shown) directed towards the membrane 27 deforms the membrane 27 locally outward, i.e., towards the user's body 91, thereby exerting a localized force on the body tissue.

[0249] As the massage nozzle device 51a moves transversely to position II, the nozzle element 70 follows the contour profile of the membrane 27, which is determined by the user's body shape. The nozzle tube 72 is pushed into the hollow cylinder of the hydraulic actuator 82, and the head piece 74 maintains its relative distance from the membrane 27. In position II, the nozzle element 70 is almost completely retracted.

[0250] As the massage nozzle device 51a moves further to position III, the nozzle element 70 again follows the contour of the body. The nozzle tube 72 moves away from the hydraulic cylinder 82, and the head piece 74 maintains its distance from the membrane 27.

[0251] Similar dynamic adjustments are made when the shape of the membrane changes, such as when the user moves. In this case, the nozzle element 70 is either pushed into the hydraulic actuator 80 or extended from the hydraulic actuator 80. The ejected fluid jet forms a fluid cushion between the membrane 27 and the head piece 74, so the membrane does not collide with the nozzle element even if the user moves suddenly.

[0252] Advantageously, the massage nozzle device according to the present invention is configured such that the membrane does not collide with the massage nozzle device in the retracted position, taking into account the maximum extension position and the maximum retraction position, and so that the nozzle element is always in maximum proximity to the membrane.

[0253] To reduce the overall height of the massage nozzle device according to the present invention, the nozzle element of the massage nozzle device can be composed of multiple parts and designed to be extendable and retractable like a telescope.

[0254] A modified example of the massage nozzle device 51a of the present invention is shown in Figure 17, in which the nozzle tube 72 is composed of two parts 723 and 724. The operating modes of the massage nozzle device are basically the same as those of the embodiments described above.

[0255] The hydraulic actuator 80 comprises a first hollow cylinder 82 having a collar-shaped stopper element 826 and a nozzle tube opening 821 at one longitudinal end, and a supply opening at the other longitudinal end. A hose connection part 872 with an external thread allows for easy connection of a conduit for supplying pressurized fluid.

[0256] The first piston head 75 is displaceable along the longitudinal axis 511 within the first hollow cylinder 82. The first component 723 of the nozzle tube 72 is designed as a hollow cylinder 78 and is formed in the first piston head 75. This second hollow cylinder 78 has a collar-shaped stopper element 782 at its longitudinal end on the nozzle side and an opening 781 for the second component of the nozzle tube 72.

[0257] The second piston head 76 is displaceable along the longitudinal axis 511 within the second hollow cylinder 78. The second part 724 of the nozzle tube is formed on this second piston head 76. The head piece 74 of the nozzle element 70 is formed in a flat plate shape with rounded edges at the longitudinal end opposite the second part 724 of the nozzle tube.

[0258] The first piston head 75 has an inlet opening 751 in the upstream center, and pressurized fluid 41 can flow from the first semi-cavity 831 of the first hollow cylinder 82 to the second hollow cylinder 78. Similarly, the second piston head 76 also has an inlet opening 761 in the upstream center, and pressurized liquid 41 flows from the second hollow cylinder 78 to the tubular cavity 77 of the second part 724 of the nozzle tube 72, and is finally ejected as an induction liquid jet 42 from the nozzle outlet 73.

[0259] To reduce energy loss due to turbulence within the massage nozzle device, the openings 751 and 761 of the two piston heads 75 and 76 are chamfered. This ensures access to the hydraulically active piston head surface around the openings 751 and 162 even when the massage nozzle device 51a is fully retracted, as shown in Figure 17(a).

[0260] As shown in Figure 17(b), the maximum extension positions of the first component 723 and the second component 724 of the nozzle tube 72 are determined by the contact of the first piston head 75 and the second piston head 76 at the upper end of the nozzle side with the stopper elements 826 and 782, respectively.

[0261] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 17(a), the maximum retracted position of the first part 723 and the second part 724 of the nozzle tube 72 is defined by the second stopper member 782 contacting the upper surface of the first stopper member 826, and the head piece 74 contacting the upper surface of the second stopper member 782.

[0262] After the supply of pressurized liquid is stopped, the massage nozzle device 51a is passively returned to its fully retracted state by the force obtained by subtracting the buoyancy in the liquid from the weight of the two parts 723 and 724 of the nozzle tube 72.

[0263] By using a reset element, the massage nozzle device is assisted in returning to its fully retracted state, ensuring functionality even when the massage nozzle device is tilted. An example of such an embodiment of the massage nozzle device 51a according to the present invention is disclosed in Figure 18. The individual components are substantially the same as those in the embodiment shown in Figure 17 above. These will not be described again.

[0264] In the illustrated massage nozzle device 51a, a first reset element 86 in the form of a helical compression spring is positioned between the stopper element 826 of the first hollow cylinder 82 and the upper side of the first piston head 75. A second return element 79 in the form of a helical compression spring is positioned between the stopper element 782 of the second hollow cylinder 78 and the upper side of the second piston head 76.

[0265] The spring constants of the two helical compression springs 86 and 79 can be selected to be equivalent or identical. Alternatively, helical compression springs of different strengths can be used to precisely control the movement of each component 72, 78, and 82 during expansion and contraction.

[0266] Instead of a single liquid jet oriented perpendicular to the membrane, it is advantageous to use the massage nozzle device according to the present invention to generate multiple obliquely oriented, moving liquid jets, thereby creating a rapidly moving force effect in the active massage region of the nozzle element. Such a massage nozzle device according to the present invention can be realized, for example, by the head piece 74 of the nozzle element 70 shown in Figure 19. Instead of a central nozzle outlet opening, the head piece 74 has two nozzle outlet openings 73a, 73b that are rotationally symmetrically arranged with respect to the longitudinal axis. Thus, the tube cavity 77 of the nozzle tube branches into two tube manifolds 77a, 77b, each opening into the nozzle outlet openings 73a, 73b. The nozzle outlet openings 73a, 73b and the tube manifolds 77a, 77b are designed to separate the liquid flow within the nozzle tube so as to minimize turbulence and guide it to the outlet openings, where two rotationally symmetric liquid jets 42a, 42b are formed, aligned at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0267] The deflection of the liquid jet within the head piece 74 generates a rotational force, causing the nozzle tube containing the head piece 74 to rotate around its longitudinal axis. As a result, the two water jets 42a and 42b also move around their longitudinal axis, and the two points of force on the film move along circular orbits.

[0268] Instead of making the entire nozzle tube rotatable, only the head piece can be rotatably attached to the nozzle tube. This avoids sliding friction between the piston head and the hollow cylinder.

[0269] Instead of the two outlet openings 73a and 73b, three or more outlet openings can also be provided.

[0270] The present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Rather, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this specification and the accompanying drawings that, in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein, a variety of further modifications of the present invention are covered by the claims. In addition, the disclosures of the various documents cited herein are incorporated herein by full text by reference.

[0271] List of reference numbers

[0272] 10,10'... Massage device, 11... chair, 111... Headrest, 112...backrest, 113...zabe, 114...Leg support part, 115...Flexible layer, 121...Support frame, 122...Swivel axis, 123, 123'...frame, 21, 21'... Massage module, 214...supply conduit, 217... Massage work area, 22... Pump module, 221... pump, 222, 222'... Feed conduit, pressure conduit, 223... Drain conduit, pump supply conduit, 224,224a...Liquid reservoir, 225...Inlet opening of drain conduit, 23... Control module, 230... Control unit, 231… Control line to the pump device, 232… Control line to the hydraulic actuator, 233… Control line to the nozzle element, 24… Drive module, 241a… First servo motor, 241b… Second servo motor, 242a… First threaded spindle, 242b… Second threaded spindle, 243a… First running rail, 243b… Second running rail, 244a… First support plate, 244b… Second support plate, 244c… Third support plate, 251… Padding element, 252… Opening, - 253… Structural element, 254… Fluid connection, 255… End of the pressure conduit, 26… Liquid container, 261… Internal space of the container, closed internal volume, 262… Rigid wall, 263… Rigid cover, 27… Flexible membrane, 271… First surface of the membrane, 272… Second surface of the membrane, 273… Deformation region of the membrane, 274… Junction point, 40… Liquid, 41… Pressure liquid, 42, 42a, 42b… Induced liquid jets, 43… Deflected liquid jet, 51(51a)… Massage nozzle device, 511… Longitudinal axis, 60… Feed pipe, 61… Elbow, 62… Hose connector, 63… Connecting screw (male screw) 64… Securing element, 641… Threaded hole, 642a - 642e… Hardening elements, 70... Nozzle element, 72... Nozzle tube, 721... The first longitudinal end of the nozzle tube, 722... The second longitudinal end of the nozzle tube, 723...First part of the nozzle tube, 724...Second part of the nozzle tube, 73... Nozzle outlet opening, 73a, 73b... Nozzle outlet opening, 74... Nozzle head piece, 75th piston head 751...Inlet opening, 76... Second piston head, 761...Inlet opening, 77...Pipe cavity, 77a (77b)... Pipe branching point, 78...Second hollow cylinder, 781... Nozzle-side opening of the second hollow cylinder, 782... Stopper element, 79...Second reset element, compression spring, 80... Hydraulic actuator, 82...First hollow cylinder, 821... Nozzle-side opening of a hollow cylinder, 823... The first longitudinal end of the hollow cylinder, 824... The second longitudinal end of the hollow cylinder, 825...Holding claw part, 826... Stopper element at the second position of the piston head, 827... Stopper element at the first position of the piston head, 831...First cylinder half-space, 832...Second cylinder half-space, 84...Connecting screw (female thread), 85...supply opening, 86...First reset element, compression spring, 871... Hose connector, 872...Hose connector with external thread, 91... User, user's body, 92...the surface of the user's body, d1... Inner diameter of the nozzle tube, d2... Outer diameter of the nozzle tube, d3... Inner diameter of a hollow cylinder, D... Distance between the nozzle outlet and the membrane, Fm... Force effect in the massage region, force acting outward through the membrane. Fk... Fluid pressure acting on the piston head, Δp…The pressure difference between the pump pressure of the supplied liquid and the static pressure inside the liquid container. x, y… Direction of movement of the massage module, P... The movement path of the massage module.

Claims

1. In a massage device for dry hydromassage (10, 10'), It comprises a basic structure (121, 123, 123') and massage modules (21, 21'), and the massage modules (21, 21') are - A substantially closed container (26) having walls (27, 262, 263), - A flexible membrane (27) that forms a part of the wall of the closed container and has a first surface facing the interior of the closed container, - At least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) configured to guide the liquid jet (42) inside the closed container to the first surface of the flexible membrane, Equipped with, A massage device comprising a drive module (24) configured to move the massage modules (21, 21') relative to the basic structure in at least one direction of movement (x, y).

2. The massage device according to claim 1, wherein a flexible layer (115) is provided on the side of the flexible membrane (27) of the massage module (21, 21') opposite to the container (26), and is fixedly attached to the basic structure (121, 123, 123') of the massage device (10, 10').

3. The massage device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the closed container (26) of the massage module (21, 21') is filled with or can be filled with a liquid (40).

4. The massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flexible membrane (27) and the rigid cover (263) together form the flat wall of the container (26) of the massage module (21, 21').

5. A massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a pump module (22) for supplying pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) of the massage module.

6. A massage device comprising a pump module (22) for supplying pressurized liquid (41) to at least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) of the massage module, a pump (221) and a drain conduit (223) for fluidly connecting the container (26) of the massage module (21, 21') and the pump inlet of the pump, The massage device according to claim 4, wherein the inlet opening (225) of the drain conduit is located in the wall of the container adjacent to the rigid cover (263).

7. A massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a control module (23) configured to control the drive module (24) and / or the massage modules (21, 21').

8. The massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') in a plane (x, y).

9. The massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') along a curved path (P) in space.

10. The massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to rotate the massage modules (21, 21') about an axis in space.

11. The massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the flexible membrane (27) of the massage module (21, 21') comprises at least one structural feature portion (251, 253) arranged to adjust the mechanical properties of the flexible membrane.

12. The massage device according to claim 11, wherein at least one structural element (251, 253) is molded or bonded onto the flexible film (27) of the massage module (21, 21') and the flexible film is locally cured.

13. In a massage device (10, 10') for dry hydromassage equipped with massage modules (21, 21'), - A substantially closed container (26) with walls (27, 262, 263), - A flexible membrane (27) that forms part of the wall of the closed container and has a first surface facing the interior of the closed container, - At least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) configured to guide the liquid jet (42) inside the closed container to the first surface of the flexible membrane, Equipped with, A massage device wherein the flexible membrane (27) of the massage module comprises at least one structural feature portion (251, 253) arranged to adjust the mechanical properties of the flexible membrane.

14. The massage device according to claim 13, wherein at least one structural element (251, 253) is molded or bonded onto the flexible film (27) so that the flexible film is locally hardened.

15. The massage device according to claim 13 or 14, having a basic structure (121, 123, 123') and a drive module (24) configured to move the massage module (21, 21') relative to the basic structure in at least one direction of movement (x, y).

16. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein a flexible layer (115) is provided on the side of the flexible membrane (27) of the massage module (21, 21') opposite to the container (26), and is fixedly attached to the basic structure (121, 123, 123') of the massage device (10, 10').

17. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the closed container (26) of the massage module (21, 21') is filled with or can be filled with a liquid (40).

18. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the flexible membrane (27) and the rigid cover (263) together form the flat wall of the container (26) of the massage module (21, 21').

19. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising a pump module (22) for supplying pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) of the massage module.

20. A massage device comprising a pump module (22) for supplying pressurized liquid (41) to at least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) of the massage module, a pump (221), and a drain conduit (223) for fluidly connecting the container (26) of the massage module (21, 21') and the pump inlet of the pump, The massage device according to claim 18, wherein the inlet opening (225) of the drain conduit is located in the wall of the container adjacent to the rigid cover (263).

21. A massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 20, comprising a control module (23) arranged to control the drive module (24) and / or the massage modules (21, 21').

22. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 21, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') in a plane (x, y).

23. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 22, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') along a curved path (P) in space.

24. The massage device according to any one of claims 13 to 23, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to rotate the massage modules (21, 21') around an axis in space.

25. In a massage device (10, 10') for dry hydromassage equipped with massage modules (21, 21'), - A substantially closed container (26) having walls (27, 262, 263), - A flexible membrane (27) that forms part of the wall of the closed container and has a first surface facing the interior of the closed container, - At least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) configured to guide the liquid jet (42) in the closed container to the first surface of the flexible membrane, Equipped with, A massage device characterized in that the flexible membrane (27) and the rigid cover (263) together form the flat wall of the container (26) of the massage module (21, 21').

26. The massage apparatus according to claim 25, further comprising a pump module (22) for supplying pressurized liquid to at least one massage nozzle device (51, 51a) of the massage module.

27. The massage device according to claim 26, wherein the pump module (22) comprises a pump (221) and a drain conduit (223), the drain conduit fluidly connecting the container (26) of the massage module (21, 21') to the pump inlet of the pump, and the inlet opening (225) of the drain conduit is located in the wall of the container adjacent to the rigid cover (263).

28. A massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 27, comprising a basic structure (121, 123, 123') and a drive module (24) arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') relative to the basic structure in at least one direction of movement (x, y).

29. The massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein a flexible layer (115) is provided on the side of the flexible membrane (27) of the massage module (21, 21') opposite to the container (26), and is fixedly attached to the basic structure (121, 123, 123') of the massage device (10, 10').

30. The massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the closed container (26) of the massage module (21, 21') is filled with or can be filled with a liquid (40).

31. A massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 30, comprising a control module (23) arranged to control the drive module (24) and / or the massage modules (21, 21').

32. The massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') in a plane (x, y).

33. The massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to move the massage modules (21, 21') along a curved path (P) in space.

34. The massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the drive module (24) is arranged to rotate the massage modules (21, 21') around an axis in space.

35. The massage device according to any one of claims 25 to 34, wherein the flexible membrane (27) of the massage module (21, 21') comprises at least one structural feature portion (251, 253) arranged to adjust the mechanical properties of the flexible membrane.

36. The massage device according to claim 35, wherein at least one structural element (251, 253) is molded or bonded onto the flexible film (27) of the massage module (21, 21') and the flexible film is locally cured.

37. In a massage nozzle device (51a) for generating an induction liquid jet, A nozzle element (70) having nozzle tubes (72, 723, 724) for generating an induction liquid jet (42, 42a, 42b), wherein the nozzle tube has an inlet opening (751) at a first longitudinal end (721) and an outlet opening (73, 73a, 73b) at a second longitudinal end (722), A hydraulic actuator (80) is operationally connected to the nozzle element (70) and configured to displace the nozzle element from a retracted position to an extended position along the longitudinal axis (511) of the nozzle tubes (72, 723, 724), A massage nozzle device equipped with the following features.

38. The massage nozzle device according to claim 37, further comprising a feed conduit (222) for supplying pressurized liquid (41) for generating the induction liquid jets (42, 42a, 27b) to the nozzle element (70), wherein the feed conduit (222) is arranged to also supply pressurized liquid (41) for operating the hydraulic actuator to the hydraulic actuator (80).

39. A massage nozzle device comprising a hydraulic actuator (80), The hydraulic actuator (80) comprises a first hollow cylinder (82) and a first piston head (75) disposed within the first hollow cylinder and displaceable between a retracted position and an extended position along the longitudinal axis (511). The nozzle tubes (72, 723, 724) are operably connected to the first piston head (75) such that the nozzle tubes are displaced along the longitudinal axis as the first piston head (75) is displaced along the longitudinal axis (511). The massage nozzle device according to claim 37 or 38, wherein the first hollow cylinder (82) has an opening (821) at its longitudinal end (824), and the nozzle tubes (72, 723, 724) of the nozzle element (70) extend through the opening (821).

40. The massage nozzle device according to claim 39, wherein the inlet opening (751) of the nozzle tube (72, 723, 724) is located within the first piston head (75).

41. The massage nozzle device according to claim 39 or 40, wherein the hydraulic actuator (80) comprises a first reset element (86), the first reset element (86) applies a force to the first piston head (75) along the longitudinal axis (511) in the direction of the retracted position in the first hollow cylinder (82).

42. The massage nozzle device according to any one of claims 39 to 41, wherein the nozzle tube (72) is connected to or molded to the first piston head (75).

43. The nozzle tube (72) is designed with two parts: a first part (723) connected to or molded onto the first piston head (75), and a second part (724) liquid-tightly connected to the first part and having the outlet openings (73, 73a, 73b) located therein. The second part of the nozzle tube is connected to or molded to the second piston head (76), The first component of the nozzle tube comprises a second hollow cylinder (78), and the second piston head (76) of the second component of the nozzle tube is positioned along the longitudinal axis (511) between a retracted position and an extended position, and is displaceable back and forth. This massage nozzle device has a second hollow cylinder (78) with an opening (781) at its longitudinal end opposite to the first piston head (75), through which the second part (724) of the nozzle tube passes.

44. The massage nozzle device according to claim 43, wherein the nozzle element (70) comprises a second reset element (79), the second reset element (79) applies force along the longitudinal axis (511) in the direction of the retracted position of the second hollow cylinder (78) of the first component (723) of the nozzle tube (72) to the second piston head (76) of the second component (724) of the nozzle tube (72).

45. The massage nozzle device according to any one of claims 37 to 44, wherein the nozzle element (70) is provided with a head piece (74) at the second longitudinal end (722) of the nozzle tube (72, 723, 724), and the outlet openings (73, 73a, 73b) of the nozzle element are positioned on the head piece.

46. The massage nozzle device according to claim 45, wherein at the second longitudinal end (722) of the nozzle tube (72, 723, 724), the head piece (74) protrudes transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis (511) above the nozzle tube.

47. The massage nozzle device according to claim 45 or 46, wherein the head piece (74) of the nozzle element (70) is rotatably mounted around the longitudinal axis (511), the head piece having one or more outlet openings (73a, 73b), and the one or more outlet openings (73a, 73b) are designed such that liquid jets (42a, 42b) exiting the outlet openings exert a rotational force on the head piece, causing the head piece (74) to rotate around the longitudinal axis.

48. In a massage device (10, 10') equipped with a container (26) filled with or capable of being filled with a liquid (40), A flexible membrane (27) wherein, when the container is filled with liquid, the first surface (271) of the membrane comes into contact with the liquid. At least one massage nozzle device (51a) is positioned to guide liquid jets (42, 42a, 42b) onto the first surface (271) of the flexible film (27), A pump device (221) is provided to supply (222) a pressurized liquid (40) to at least one massage nozzle device (51a), A control unit (230) is configured to control the pump device (221) and / or the specific massage nozzle device (51a) in order to adjust the intensity of the induction liquid jets (42, 42a, 42b) of a particular massage nozzle device (51a), A massage device equipped with the following features.

49. The massage device according to claim 48, wherein the second surface (272) of the membrane (27), which is facing away from the first surface (271) of the membrane (27), is also in contact with the liquid.

50. The massage device according to claim 48 or 49, wherein the container (26) and the flexible membrane (27) form a substantially enclosed internal volume (261), and the at least one massage nozzle device (51a) is positioned within the enclosed internal volume of the container.

51. The massage device according to any one of claims 48 to 50, wherein the position and / or orientation of the at least one massage nozzle device (51a) is variable so that the induction liquid jets (42, 42a, 42b) are directed to different points on the first surface (271) of the flexible membrane (27).

52. A massage device according to any one of claims 48 to 51, comprising a device capable of adjusting and / or changing the temperature of the liquid (40) in the liquid container (26).

53. The massage device according to any one of claims 1 to 36 or 48 to 51, wherein the at least one massage nozzle device is a massage nozzle device (51a) according to any one of claims 37 to 47.

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