Magnetic therapy facility

Abstract

The present invention relates to a magnetic therapy facility (1), comprising a frame (2) and a carriage (3), a plurality of permanent magnets (23) being attached to the frame (2), the movable carriage (3) supporting an arch (5) arranged above the frame (2) such that the concave face (510) of the arch faces the frame, a plurality of permanent magnets (52) being attached to the concave face (510) of the arch (5), the magnets (23) of the frame and the magnets (52) of the arch being attached such that their opposite polarities face one another and create a magnetic field therebetween, the carriage (3) and the frame (2) being provided with a device (4) for moving the carriage in longitudinal translation relative to the frame, and the carriage (3) and the arch (5) being provided with a device (6) for moving the arch in vertical translation relative to the carriage.

Description

[0001] Magnetotherapy installation

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a magnetotherapy installation.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] In alternative medicine, it is known to apply small magnets to a user's body to create a magnetic field. These magnets are said to be useful in treating joint or muscle pain, for example.

[0006] However, if these magnets are simply placed on the body, this assumes that the patient does not move unless these magnets fall. If these magnets are held on the body, for example, by straps or elastic bands, this assumes tedious handling of each magnet to be positioned.

[0007] Finally, it is not possible to position magnets that are too large on the human body for reasons of weight and size.

[0008] STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An aim of the invention is therefore to propose a magnetotherapy installation, which makes it possible to apply a static magnetic field to a user, in particular when the latter is in a horizontal position (lying position), without him having to support the weight of the magnets and so that he can move during the application of this magnetic field.

[0010] Another aim of the invention is to propose an installation which can be easily adapted for use by different users, and which in particular makes it possible to apply this magnetic field to different points of the body from one user to another.

[0011] For this purpose, the invention relates to a magnetotherapy installation.

[0012] According to the invention, this installation comprises a frame and a trolley, the frame is configured to receive a user in a lying position, and has a longitudinal axis, several permanent magnets, such as neodymium magnets, are fixed on this frame, the mobile trolley supports a vault of longitudinal axis and it is arranged relative to the frame so that the vault is located above this frame and the concave face of this vault is oriented towards this frame, several permanent magnets, such as neodymium magnets, are fixed on the concave face of this vault, all the permanent magnets of the frame being fixed so that their respective north poles are oriented towards the top of the frame and all the permanent magnets of the vault so that their respective south poles are oriented downwards, or vice versa, so that the magnets of the vault create a magnetic field with the magnets of the frame,the carriage and the frame are provided with a device for longitudinal translational movement of said carriage relative to said frame and the carriage and the vault are provided with a device for vertical translational movement of the vault relative to said carriage.,

[0013] Thanks to these features of the invention, the user of the installation can easily install himself on the frame, then the trolley carrying the vault provided with magnets can be moved longitudinally and in height, to bring this vault above the body area of ​​the user that it is desired to subject to the magnetic field, and this, for the desired duration. It is then possible to move the trolley aside, to allow the user to leave the installation and then to start again with another user.

[0014] According to other advantageous and non-limiting characteristics of the invention, taken alone or in combination:

[0015] - the frame is fixed;

[0016] - the permanent magnets of the frame and / or the permanent magnets of the vault and / or the permanent magnet of each removable sleeve have a power of between 0.38 Tesla and 0.40 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.40 Tesla;

[0017] - the permanent magnets of the frame and / or the permanent magnets of the vault have a power of between 0.38 Tesla and 0.40 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.40 Tesla, so as to create a magnetic field between the magnets of the vault and the magnets of the frame of between 0.010 Tesla and 0.015 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.012 Tesla;

[0018] - the permanent magnets of the frame are arranged on this frame along several axial lines parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame and along several transverse rows perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the frame and / or the magnets of the vault are arranged on the vault along several axial lines parallel to the longitudinal axis of the vault and along several transverse rows perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the vault;

[0019] - the longitudinal translational displacement device comprises a carriage guiding device and a carriage actuating device, and the carriage guiding device comprises at least one guide rail fixed to the frame parallel to the longitudinal axis thereof and at least one pair of rolling rollers, fixed to the carriage, the pair of rolling rollers being received in the guide rail so as to be able to move along it;

[0020] - the frame is inclined relative to the horizontal and has a high end and a low end, the actuating device of the carriage comprises a drive belt, one end of which is fixed to the high end of the frame and the other end of which is fixed to a rotating drum, rotated by a motor, preferably electric, and said rotating drum is fixed to the carriage, so that the rotational drive of the rotating drum in one direction of rotation causes the carriage to move towards the high end of the frame and the rotational drive of the rotating drum in the opposite direction of rotation causes the carriage to move under the action of its weight, towards the low end of the frame;

[0021] - the vertical translational displacement device comprises a device for guiding the vault relative to the carriage and a device for actuating the vault, and the vault guiding device comprises at least two parallel vertical guide bars, each of them being received in at least one guide bearing, the guide bars being fixed vertically on the carriage and the guide bearings being integral with the vault or vice versa;

[0022] - the vault actuating device is at least one electric, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, preferably at least one electric cylinder, more preferably 24V electric cylinders, the rod of which is fixed vertically to the vault and the body of which is fixed vertically to the carriage or vice versa, so that actuation of the cylinder in one direction causes the vault to rise relative to the carriage and actuation of the cylinder in the opposite direction causes the vault to descend relative to the carriage;

[0023] - the frame comprises a chassis covered with a mattress, the chassis comprises a perforated apron and the permanent magnets of the frame are provided with a threaded rod, are fixed under the perforated apron so that their threaded rod passes through one of the holes in the perforated apron and are held in place by a bolt screwed onto the threaded rod;

[0024] - the installation includes a central control unit which controls the operation of the motor and / or the cylinder;

[0025] - the installation includes a vertical end-of-travel sensor for the vault, such as a laser distance sensor, and / or two axial end-of-travel sensors for the carriage relative to the frame, such as inductive sensors;

[0026] - the installation comprises at least one removable sleeve, each removable sleeve comprising a ferromagnetic metal insert such that the removable sleeve is carried by a magnetic interaction force produced by a permanent magnet of the vault on the ferromagnetic metal insert, each removable sleeve comprising a permanent magnet, such as a neodymium magnet, arranged at one end of the removable sleeve, preferably the permanent magnet being a disc, more preferably having an external diameter of 30 mm and a thickness of 15 mm; - the removable sleeve is made of plastic material, preferably polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon (registered trademark);

[0027] - the ferromagnetic metal insert is embedded in the removable sleeve, preferably completely surrounded by the plastic material of the removable sleeve

[0028] - the installation comprises at least one auxiliary support supported by the frame or the vault, at least one permanent magnet, such as a neodymium magnet, being mounted on each auxiliary support, the auxiliary support preferably being sliding relative to the frame along the longitudinal axis of the frame;

[0029] - the auxiliary support comprises a clamping element configured to hold the auxiliary support in position relative to the frame;

[0030] - the at least one auxiliary support is a first auxiliary support supported by the frame and / or a pair of second auxiliary supports supported by the frame and / or a pair of third auxiliary supports supported by the vault;

[0031] - a first auxiliary sheet is pivotally mounted on a first auxiliary support around a transverse axis, which is horizontal and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the frame;

[0032] - four permanent magnets are fixed on the first auxiliary sheet;

[0033] - the first auxiliary support and the first auxiliary sheet are formed from stainless steel;

[0034] - the four permanent magnets fixed on the first auxiliary sheet are arranged on the same plane orthogonal to their north poles and are further arranged in pairs, the permanent magnets of each pair being arranged symmetrically with respect to a vertical plane comprising the longitudinal axis of the frame, and preferably having their north poles oriented in opposite directions;

[0035] - the first auxiliary support comprises a stop, preferably such that the first auxiliary sheet is in contact against the stop when the four permanent magnets have their magnetization axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame;

[0036] - the first auxiliary support is a first auxiliary carriage sliding relative to the frame along the longitudinal axis of the frame, the first auxiliary carriage being mounted to slide on two rods parallel to the longitudinal axis and fixed to a first longitudinal end of the frame, preferably each rod being fixed to the frame by means of a pair of ears screwed onto the frame;

[0037] - the first auxiliary carriage comprises guide bearings with a horizontal central axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame, each guide bearing being mounted on a rod; - at least one second auxiliary support is mounted on the frame by means of an ear screwed onto the frame, the second auxiliary support sliding relative to the ear, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame;

[0038] - the second auxiliary support comprises two rods arranged vertically and in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame, a slider being slidably mounted on each rod, a permanent magnet being mounted on the slider so that its magnetization axis is horizontal and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the frame;

[0039] - each slider comprises a clamping element configured to hold the slider in position relative to the rod;

[0040] - each slider has a nut receiving an adjustment screw, the permanent magnet being fixed on the adjustment screw, preferably at one end of the adjustment screw;

[0041] - the adjustment screw has an adjustment head forming a handle;

[0042] - the installation comprises a pair of second auxiliary supports arranged transversely on either side of the frame, preferably at a second longitudinal end of the frame;

[0043] - the installation comprises a pair of third auxiliary supports carried by the vault, at least one permanent magnet, such as a neodymium magnet, being mounted on each third auxiliary support;

[0044] - the two third auxiliary supports are arranged transversely on either side of the vault, and preferably have magnetization axes inclined relative to each other;

[0045] - every third auxiliary support is formed from a folded stainless steel sheet.

[0046] DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0047] Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting, and which must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings in which:

[0048] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of the installation according to the invention.

[0049] [Fig. 2] is a perspective view of the installation chassis.

[0050] [Fig. 3] is a perspective view of a first support forming part of the installation trolley.

[0051] [Fig. 4] is a perspective view of a second support forming part of the installation trolley. [Fig. 5] is a perspective view of the trolley vault.

[0052] [Fig. 6] is a perspective view of the second support and the arch of the carriage.

[0053] [Fig. 7] is a diagram showing the carriage guidance device.

[0054] [Fig. 8] is a diagram showing the first carriage support in a low position on the chassis.

[0055] [Fig. 9] is a diagram showing the first carriage support in an intermediate position on the chassis.

[0056] [Fig. 10] is a diagram showing the first carriage support in a high position on the chassis.

[0057] [Fig. 11] is a perspective view of the installation according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0058] [Fig. 12] is a perspective view of a detail of the installation shown in Figure 11.

[0059] [Fig. 13] is a perspective view of a detail of the installation shown in Figure 11.

[0060] [Fig. 14] is a perspective view of the installation vault including two removable sleeves.

[0061] Throughout the figures, similar elements are designated by identical references.

[0062] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0063] Referring to Figure 1, we can see a magnetotherapy installation 1 in accordance with the invention.

[0064] In the remainder of the description and the claims, the terms "vertical", "horizontal", "upper", "lower", "top" and "bottom" are to be taken into consideration in relation to the normal position of use of the magnetotherapy installation 1, which is that shown in Figure 1.

[0065] This installation 1 comprises a frame 2 and a trolley 3, movable in two dimensions, relative to this frame 2.

[0066] The frame 2 has a longitudinal axis X-X'. It comprises a fixed chassis 21 and a mattress 22, positioned on this chassis, the chassis 21 and the mattress 22 being configured and sized to receive a user in a lying position. Thus, the frame 2 is fixed. As can be seen in Figure 2, the frame 21 comprises an apron 210, provided with feet 211 for supporting this apron. The apron 210 is rectangular.

[0067] Several permanent magnets 23 are fixed to the apron 210 of the chassis. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the apron 210 is a perforated plate and each magnet is provided with a threaded rod. The magnets are fixed under the perforated plate, so that their threaded rod passes through one of the holes in the perforated plate and projects from the upper face of the plate and a bolt is screwed onto the threaded rod, thus ensuring that the magnet is held in place.

[0068] The magnets 23 of the frame could, however, be fixed in any other way.

[0069] Preferably, these magnets 23 are neodymium magnets. Preferably also these magnets are cylindrical and their magnetization is axial (north pole at one end of the cylinder and south pole at the other end of the cylinder). Preferably, these magnets have an outside diameter of 62 mm, an inside diameter of 6 mm and a height of 35 mm, these measurements being given plus or minus 0.1 mm.

[0070] The magnets 23 preferably have a power of between 0.38 and 0.40 Tesla, more preferably each magnet 23 has a power of 0.4 Tesla (4000 Gauss). All the magnets 23 are fixed so that their respective north poles are oriented towards the top of the frame 2. Their respective south poles are therefore oriented towards the ground on which the frame rests. The reverse is also possible (all south poles towards the top of the frame).

[0071] Preferably, the magnets 23 are arranged along several axial lines 230 (i.e. parallel to the axis X-X') and parallel to each other. Also preferably, the magnets 23 are arranged along several transverse rows 231 perpendicular to the axis X-X'. This makes it possible to create a regular and constant magnetic field, aligned with the body of the user lying on the frame 2.

[0072] Preferably, the center distance A (measured from center to center) between two magnets 23 in the axial direction (parallel to X-X') is between 130 mm and 150 mm, more preferably is equal to 140 mm.

[0073] Preferably, the center distance B between two magnets 23 in the transverse direction (perpendicular to X-X') is between 95 mm and 115 mm, more preferably is equal to 105 mm.

[0074] Furthermore, as can be seen in Figures 7 to 10, the carriage 3 and the frame 2 are provided with a device 4 for longitudinal translational movement of said carriage 3 relative to said frame 2. By "longitudinal translation" is meant a translation along the axis X-X'. The device for longitudinal translational movement 4 comprises a device 41 for guiding the carriage 3 relative to the frame 2 and an actuating device 42 for the carriage making it possible to ensure the movement of the latter.

[0075] The guide device 41 comprises at least one guide rail 410, fixed on the frame 2 parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' thereof. Preferably, this rail 410 is fixed along one of the longitudinal edges of the chassis 21 of the frame 2. More preferably, and as can be seen in FIG. 2, the device 41 comprises two guide rails 410, fixed respectively along each longitudinal edge of the chassis 21. The role of this rail (these rails) will be described later.

[0076] Furthermore, preferably, the apron 210 is slightly inclined relative to the horizontal, as visible in the figures and has a high end 212 and a low end 213, and to do this, the feet 211 located at the high end are longer than those located at the low end.

[0077] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the carriage 3 preferably comprises a vertical frame 30 and a bracket 31 assembled.

[0078] The vertical frame 30 is composed of two parallel vertical uprights 301, connected by two horizontal and axial longitudinal members 302 (i.e. which extend parallel to the axis X-X' when the carriage 3 is mounted on the frame 2).

[0079] The bracket 31 comprises two horizontal crosspieces 311, connected to each other at one of their ends by a horizontal axial spar 312. Each of the two horizontal crosspieces 311 is furthermore fixed by its free end (those not connected to the spar 312) to one of the uprights 301. Furthermore, on each side of the bracket, an inclined bar 313 is fixed between a middle part of the crosspiece 311 and the lower end of the upright 301 so as to take up the forces.

[0080] The carriage 3 further comprises at least one pair of rolling rollers 411 which form part of the guide device 41. These rollers may have single or double wheels as shown in the figures.

[0081] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the carriage 3 comprises two pairs of rolling rollers 411, the first pair comprising two rollers fixed respectively on each cross member 311, close to the frame 30 and the second pair comprising two rollers fixed respectively at the angle between each cross member 311 and the side member 312.

[0082] Each pair of rollers 411 is received in a guide rail 410, so that each roller 411 can slide inside this rail 410 (see figures 7 to 10). As can be seen in these same figures, the actuating device 42 of the carriage 3 comprises a drive belt 420 and a rotating drum 421. One end of the belt 420 is fixed to the upper end 212 of the frame 2 and the other end is fixed to the rotating drum 421.

[0083] The rotating drum 421 is driven in rotation in one direction or in the opposite direction by a motor 422, preferably electric. The rotating drum 421 is fixed on the carriage 3, preferably on the vertical frame 30 thereof.

[0084] The carriage 3 supports a vault 5, visible in figures 1, 5 and 6.

[0085] The vault 5 comprises a curved support plate 51, in the form of a portion of a cylinder, with longitudinal axis X1-X'1, (see figures 5 and 6).

[0086] Several permanent magnets 52 are fixed on its concave face 510.

[0087] Preferably, these magnets 52 are neodymium magnets. Preferably also these magnets are cylindrical and their magnetization is axial (north pole at one end of the cylinder and south pole at the other end of the cylinder). Preferably, these magnets have an outside diameter of 72 mm and a height of 37 mm, these measurements being given plus or minus 0.1 mm.

[0088] The magnets 52 preferably have a power of between 0.38 and 0.40 Tesla, more preferably each magnet 23 has a power of 0.4 Tesla (4000 Gauss).

[0089] Preferably, they are aligned in the form of several axial lines 520 (parallel to the axis X1-X'1). Also preferably, the magnets 52 are arranged in several transverse rows 521 perpendicular to the axis X-X'.

[0090] Preferably, the center distance C between two magnets 52 in the axial direction (parallel to X1-X'1) is between 130 mm and 150 mm, more preferably is equal to 140 mm.

[0091] Preferably, the center distance D between two magnets 52 in the transverse direction (perpendicular to X-X') is between 95 mm and 115 mm, more preferably is equal to 105 mm.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, the support plate 51 is pierced with perforations 511 and each magnet 52 is provided with a threaded rod. The magnets 52 are fixed on the perforated plate 51, so that their threaded rod passes through one of the perforations 511 and projects on the convex face of the plate 51 and a bolt is screwed onto the threaded rod, thus ensuring the maintenance of the magnet 52.

[0093] The magnets 52 could, however, be fixed in any other way. All the magnets 52 are fixed so that their respective south poles are oriented downwards (towards the ground), while all the magnets 23 are fixed so that their respective north poles are oriented towards the top of the frame 2. The reverse is also possible (north poles of all the magnets 52 oriented downwards and south poles of all the magnets 23 oriented towards the top of the frame 2).

[0094] Preferably, the magnetic field thus created between the frame 2 and the vault 5 is between 0.010 Tesla and 0.015 Tesla, more preferably is equal to 0.012 Tesla (120 Gauss).

[0095] In Figures 1 and 6, it can be seen that the vault 5 is fixed on the upper part of a vertical support frame 53, so that its longitudinal axis X1-X'1 is slightly inclined relative to the horizontal.

[0096] Referring to Figures 4 and 6, it can be seen that the frame 53 is formed of two parallel vertical uprights 531, connected by two horizontal and axial side members 532.

[0097] Furthermore, as can be seen in Figures 3, 4 and 6, the carriage 3 and the vault 5 are provided with a device 6 for moving said vault 5 in vertical translation relative to said carriage 3.

[0098] The vertical translational displacement device 6 comprises a device 61 for guiding the vault 5 relative to the carriage 3 and an actuating device 62 for actuating the vault enabling the vertical displacement of the latter.

[0099] In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the guide device 61 of the vault 5 comprises at least two guide bars 611, each of them cooperating with at least one guide bearing 612.

[0100] In Figure 3, it can be seen that the two guide bars 611 are fixed to the frame 30 of the carriage 3, preferably on the two side members 302. These guide bars 611 extend vertically.

[0101] In Figures 4 and 6, it can be seen that each vertical upright 531 of the frame 53 is provided with at least one guide bearing 612 with a vertical central axis, preferably two superimposed and coaxial guide bearings 612.

[0102] The frame 53 is assembled to the carriage 3 so that each guide bar 611 is received in a guide bearing 612, here in two superimposed bearings 612, which allows the vertical sliding of the frame 53 and therefore of the vault 5 relative to the carriage 3.

[0103] Although not shown, the reverse is also conceivable, that is to say that the guide bars 611 can be fixed on the frame 53 and be integral with the vault 5 and the guide bearings 612 can be fixed on the carriage 3. The actuating device 62 of the vault is preferably at least one jack, such as an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic jack, more preferably at least one electric jack. Said at least one jack 62 comprises a body 621 and a rod 622. Advantageously, the actuating device 62 of the vault is formed by 24V electric jacks.

[0104] In the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4, the cylinder body 621 is fixed vertically on the frame 30, preferably between the two uprights 301 and on the lower side member 302 and the rod 622 of the cylinder 62 is fixed vertically on the frame 53, preferably between the two uprights 531 and on the upper side member 532. The reverse is also possible.

[0105] The actuation of the jack 62 causes the vertical movement of the frame 53 and therefore of the vault 5 relative to the carriage 3, in the direction of ascent or descent.

[0106] When the carriage 3 is mounted on the frame 2, it is arranged so that the vault 5 is located above this frame 2 and the concave face 510 of the vault is oriented towards this frame (see figure 1). The permanent magnets 23 of the frame create a magnetic field with the permanent magnets 52 of the vault.

[0107] Furthermore, the longitudinal axis X1-X'1 of the vault 5 is parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2.

[0108] Finally, a central unit 7, such as a computer or a programmable automaton, arranged for example on the carriage 3 (see figures 1 and 3), makes it possible to actuate the motor 422 and the jack 62.

[0109] In the embodiment of figures 11 to 13, the installation 1 comprises at least one auxiliary support 70, 80, 90 supported by the frame 2 or the vault 5.

[0110] Preferably, the auxiliary support 70, 80 is sliding relative to the frame 2 along the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2.

[0111] Advantageously, at least one permanent magnet 71, 81, 91, such as a neodymium magnet, is mounted on each auxiliary support 70, 80, 90.

[0112] Preferably, the auxiliary support 70, 80 comprises a clamping element 72, 82 configured to hold the auxiliary support 70, 80 in position relative to the frame.

[0113] Advantageously, the at least one auxiliary support 70, 80, 90 is a first auxiliary support 70 supported by the frame 2 and / or a pair of second auxiliary supports 80 supported by the frame 2 and / or a pair of third auxiliary supports 90 supported by the vault 5.

[0114] Preferably, as shown in particular in Figure 12, a first auxiliary sheet 73 is pivotally mounted on a first auxiliary support 70 around a transverse axis Y-Y', which is horizontal and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2. Such a configuration makes it possible in particular to facilitate the positioning of a user's feet.

[0115] Advantageously, four permanent magnets 71 are fixed on the first auxiliary sheet 73. Thus, the permanent magnets 71 are configured to be located opposite the feet of a user. One permanent magnet 71 is opposite each heel of the user, and one permanent magnet 71 is opposite the end portion of each foot of the user.

[0116] Preferably, the four permanent magnets 71 fixed to the first auxiliary sheet 73 are arranged on the same plane orthogonal to their north poles and are further arranged in pairs, the permanent magnets 71 of each pair being arranged symmetrically with respect to a vertical plane comprising the longitudinal axis XX of the frame, and preferably having their north poles oriented in opposite directions.

[0117] Preferably, the first auxiliary support 70 and the first auxiliary sheet 73 are formed from stainless steel.

[0118] Advantageously, the first auxiliary support 70 comprises a stop 74, preferably such that the first auxiliary sheet 73 is in contact against the stop 74 when the four permanent magnets 71 have their magnetization axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2.

[0119] In this example, the first auxiliary support 70 is a first auxiliary carriage 70 sliding relative to the frame 2 along the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2.

[0120] Advantageously, the first auxiliary carriage 70 is slidably mounted on two rods 75 parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' and fixed to a first longitudinal end 213 of the frame 2.

[0121] Preferably, each rod 75 is fixed to the frame 2 by means of a pair of ears 76 screwed onto the frame 2.

[0122] Advantageously, the first auxiliary carriage 70 comprises guide bearings 76 with a horizontal central axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame. Each guide bearing 76 is mounted on a rod 75.

[0123] Advantageously, each guide bearing 76 is made of plastic material, preferably polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon (registered trademark).

[0124] Advantageously, as shown in Figure 11 or Figure 13, at least one second auxiliary support 80 is mounted on the frame 2 by means of an ear 83 screwed onto the frame 2. The second auxiliary support 80 slides relative to the ear 83, parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2. Preferably, the second auxiliary support 80 comprises two rods 85 arranged vertically and in a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2.

[0125] Advantageously, a slider 86 is slidably mounted on each rod 85.

[0126] Preferably, a permanent magnet 81 is mounted on each slide 86 so that its magnetization axis is horizontal and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X-X' of the frame 2.

[0127] Advantageously, each slider 86 comprises a clamping element 87 configured to hold the slider 86 in position relative to the rod 85.

[0128] Preferably, each slider 86 comprises a nut receiving an adjustment screw 88.

[0129] Advantageously, the permanent magnet 81 is fixed to the adjustment screw 88, preferably at one end of the adjustment screw 88.

[0130] Preferably, the adjusting screw 88 comprises an adjusting head 89 forming a handle. Advantageously, the adjusting head 89 is arranged at the other end of the adjusting screw 88.

[0131] Advantageously, as shown in Figure 11 and Figure 13, the installation 1 comprises a pair of second auxiliary supports 80 arranged transversely on either side of the frame 2, preferably at a second longitudinal end 212 of the frame 2.

[0132] Thus, the permanent magnets 81 are configured to be located in pairs on either side of a user's head.

[0133] Advantageously, as shown in Figure 11, the installation 1 comprises a pair of third auxiliary supports 90 carried by the vault 5.

[0134] Preferably, at least one permanent magnet 91, such as a neodymium magnet, is mounted on each third auxiliary support 90.

[0135] Thus, the permanent magnets 91 are configured to support a user's hands.

[0136] Advantageously, each permanent magnet 91 has an outer diameter of 62 mm, an inner diameter of 6 mm and a height of 35 mm, these measurements being given plus or minus 0.1 mm. Thus, preferably, the at least one permanent magnet 91 is identical to the permanent magnets 23.

[0137] Preferably, each permanent magnet 91 is bolted to the third auxiliary support 90.

[0138] Advantageously, the two third auxiliary supports 90 are arranged transversely on either side of the vault 5. Preferably, the two third auxiliary supports 90 comprise magnetization axes inclined relative to each other. In other words, the permanent magnet 91 of a third auxiliary support 90 comprises a magnetization axis inclined relative to that of the permanent magnet 91 of the other third auxiliary support 90.

[0139] Advantageously, each third auxiliary support 90 is formed from a folded stainless steel sheet.

[0140] Preferably, the permanent magnets 71, 81 are cylindrical and their magnetization is axial (north pole at one end of the cylinder and south pole at the other end of the cylinder). Preferably, these magnets have an external diameter of 70 mm and a height of 35 mm, these measurements being given plus or minus 0.1 mm.

[0141] Advantageously, the permanent magnets 71, 81 each have a magnetic remanence of between 1.32 and 1.37 Tesla.

[0142] In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, the installation 1 comprises at least one removable sleeve 522. In the example shown, the installation 1 comprises two removable sleeves 522. The installation 1 also comprises a vertical end of travel sensor 8 of the vault 5, which in this example is a laser distance sensor.

[0143] Advantageously, each removable sleeve 522 comprises a ferromagnetic metal insert, such that the removable sleeve 522 is carried by a magnetic interaction force produced by a permanent magnet 52 of the vault 5 on the ferromagnetic metal insert.

[0144] Preferably, each removable sleeve 522 includes a permanent magnet 523, such as a neodymium magnet, disposed at one end of the removable sleeve 522.

[0145] Each permanent magnet 523 is thus configured to be located opposite the body of a user, preferably the trunk of a user. For example, the user is in a lying position on the stomach on the mattress 22 of the frame 2, such that each permanent magnet 523 is positioned opposite one of the upper gluteal twins.

[0146] Preferably, the permanent magnet 523 of each removable sleeve 522 is cylindrical and its magnetization is axial (north pole at one end of the cylinder and south pole at the other end of the cylinder).

[0147] Preferably, the permanent magnet 523 has an outer diameter of 30 mm and a height of 15 mm, these measurements being given plus or minus 0.1 mm. Preferably, the permanent magnet 523 is a disc, more preferably having an outer diameter of 30 mm and a thickness of 15 mm, these measurements being given plus or minus 0.1 mm.

[0148] Advantageously, the removable sleeve 522 is made of plastic material, preferably polytetrafluoroethylene, also known as Teflon (registered trademark).

[0149] Advantageously, the ferromagnetic metal insert is embedded in the removable sleeve 522, preferably completely surrounded by the plastic material of the removable sleeve 522.

[0150] Preferably, the ferromagnetic metal insert is frustoconical.

[0151] Advantageously, the removable sleeve 522 is frustoconical.

[0152] Preferably, the permanent magnets 23 of the frame 2 and / or the permanent magnets 52 of the vault 5 and / or the permanent magnet 523 of each removable sleeve 522 have a power of between 0.38 Tesla and 0.40 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.40 Tesla. Preferably, the permanent magnets of the frame and / or the permanent magnets of the vault have a power of between 0.38 Tesla and 0.40 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.40 Tesla, so as to create a magnetic field between the permanent magnets 52 of the vault 5 and the permanent magnets 23 of the frame 2 of between 0.010 Tesla and 0.015 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.012 Tesla.

[0153] Generally, the aforementioned mechanical elements may, unless otherwise provided, be made of stainless steel.

[0154] Operation of the installation 1.

[0155] The user who is to be subjected to the magnetic field is installed on the frame 2, preferably so that his head is located at the upper end 212.

[0156] The central unit 7 makes it possible to ensure the movement of the carriage 3 as follows. Starting from the low position of Figure 8, the central unit 7 actuates the motor 422 which drives the rotation of the drum 421. In doing so, the drive belt 420 winds around the drum 421 and as it is retained at its other end at the upper end 212 of the frame 2, the carriage 3 moves towards the upper end 212 (towards the right in Figures 8 to 10). Conversely, the rotational drive of the drum 421 in the opposite direction of rotation, coupled with the weight of the carriage, causes it to move towards the lower end 213 (towards the left in Figures 8 to 10). The carriage 3 can thus be positioned precisely above the part of the user's body to be treated.Furthermore, the central unit 7 makes it possible to ensure the vertical movement of the arch 5 by actuating the jack 62, until the arch 5 and therefore the magnets 52 which it supports are at the correct distance from the user and the magnets 23.

[0157] Advantageously, a vertical limit switch sensor 8 can be fixed to the arch 5 (see Figure 1) to detect the presence of the user and stop the vertical movement of the arch 5 before it is too close to the user. This vertical limit switch sensor 8 is also connected to the central unit 7 to send it the information. Preferably, such a sensor is a laser distance sensor.

[0158] Advantageously also, the installation can also be equipped with two sensors 9 for the axial end of travel of the carriage 3 relative to the frame 2 (see figure 7). Such sensors 9 are for example inductive sensors. A sensor 9 is placed on each side of the carriage 3. The stopping of the carriage 3 is caused by the encounter of the inductive sensor 9 with a metal tab 91 fixed to each end of the frame 2.

[0159] Installation 1 allows a static magnetic field to be applied to a user, which could have a beneficial effect on certain conditions, including multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, osteoporosis, the relief of certain pains and the improvement of healing.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Magnetotherapy installation (1), characterized in that it comprises a frame (2) and a trolley (3), - in that the frame (2) is configured to receive a user in a lying position, and has a longitudinal axis (X-X'), - in that several permanent magnets (23), such as neodymium magnets, are fixed on this frame (2), - in that the mobile carriage (3) supports an arch (5) with a longitudinal axis (X1-X'1) and in that it is arranged relative to the frame (2) so that the arch (5) is located above this frame (2) and the concave face (510) of this arch (5) is oriented towards this frame, - in that several permanent magnets (52), such as neodymium magnets, are fixed on the concave face (510) of this vault (5), - in that all the permanent magnets (23) of the frame are fixed so that their respective north poles are oriented towards the top of the frame (2) and all the permanent magnets (52) of the vault so that their respective south poles are oriented downwards, or vice versa, so that the magnets (52) of the vault (5) create a magnetic field with the magnets (23) of the frame (2), - in that the carriage (3) and the frame (2) are provided with a device for longitudinal translational movement (4) of said carriage relative to said frame, and in that the carriage (3) and the vault (5) are provided with a device for vertical translational movement (6) of the vault relative to said carriage.

2. Installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the magnets (23) of the frame (2) and / or the magnets (52) of the vault (5) have a power of between 0.38 Tesla and 0.40 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.4 Tesla, so as to create a magnetic field between the magnets (52) of the vault (5) and the magnets (23) of the frame (2) of between 0.010 Tesla and 0.015 Tesla, preferably equal to 0.012 Tesla.

3. Installation (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the magnets (23) of the frame (2) are arranged on this frame (2) along several axial lines (230) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X-X') of the frame and along several transverse rows (231) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X-X') of the frame (2) and / or in that the magnets (52) of the vault (5) are arranged on the vault (5) along several axial lines (520) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X1-X'1) of the vault (5) and along several transverse rows (521) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X1-X'1) of the vault (5).

4. Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the longitudinal translational displacement device (4) comprises a guiding device (41) for the carriage (3) and an actuating device (42) for the carriage, and in that the guide device (41) of the carriage comprises at least one guide rail (410) fixed on the frame (2) parallel to the longitudinal axis (X-X') thereof and at least one pair of rolling rollers (411), fixed on the carriage (3), the pair of rolling rollers (411) being received in the guide rail (410) so as to be able to move along it.

5. Installation (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the frame (2) is inclined relative to the horizontal and has a high end (212) and a low end (213), in that the actuating device (42) of the carriage comprises a drive belt (420) one end of which is fixed to the high end (212) of the frame (2) and the other end of which is fixed to a rotary drum (421), rotated by a motor (422), preferably electric, and in that said rotary drum (421) is fixed to the carriage (3), so that the rotational drive of the rotary drum (421) in one direction of rotation causes the carriage (3) to move in the direction of the high end (212) of the frame (2) and that the rotational drive of the rotary drum (421) in the opposite direction of rotation causes the carriage (3) to move under the action of its weight, in the direction of the lower end (213) of the frame (2).

6. Installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vertical translational movement device (6) comprises a guide device (61) of the vault (5) relative to the carriage (3) and an actuating device (62) of the vault, and in that the guiding device (61) of the vault comprises at least two vertical, parallel guide bars (611), each of them being received in at least one guide bearing (612), the guide bars (611) being fixed vertically on the carriage (3) and the guide bearings (612) being integral with the vault (5) or vice versa.

7. Installation (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the actuating device (62) of the vault (5) is at least one electric jack whose rod (622) is fixed vertically to the vault (5) and whose body (621) is fixed vertically to the carriage (3) or vice versa, so that actuation of the jack (62) in one direction causes the vault (5) to rise relative to the carriage (3) and actuation of the jack (62) in the opposite direction causes the vault (5) to descend relative to the carriage (3).

8. Installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the frame (2) comprises a chassis (21) covered with a mattress (22), in that the frame (21) comprises a perforated apron (210) and in that the permanent magnets (23) of the frame (2) are provided with a threaded rod, are fixed under the perforated apron (210) so that their threaded rod passes through one of the holes in the perforated apron (210) and are held in place by a bolt screwed onto the threaded rod.

9. Installation (1) according to claim 5 or 7, characterized in that it comprises a central control unit (7) which controls the operation of the motor (422) and / or the jack (62).

10. Installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a vertical end of travel sensor (8) of the vault (5), such as a laser distance sensor and / or two axial end of travel sensors (9) of the carriage (3) relative to the frame (2), such as inductive sensors.

11. Installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one removable sleeve (522), each removable sleeve (522) comprising a ferromagnetic metal insert such that the removable sleeve (522) is carried by a magnetic interaction force produced by a permanent magnet (52) of the vault (5) on the ferromagnetic metal insert, each removable sleeve (522) comprising a permanent magnet (523), such as a neodymium magnet, arranged at one end of the removable sleeve (522).

12. Installation (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one auxiliary support (70, 80, 90) supported by the frame (2) or the vault (5), at least one permanent magnet (71, 81, 91), such as a neodymium magnet, being mounted on each auxiliary support (70, 80, 90).

Images