Device for carrying out high-frequency electrotherapy

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (2) for carrying out high-frequency electrotherapy, comprising a) two electrodes (22) or alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals into a body (100) of a human being or an animal, b) a transmitter (42) for transmitting a high-frequency signal and / or a modulator (18) for generating and transmitting a high-frequency signal to the electrodes (22) or to the alternative skin contact elements, c) wherein a low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) is designed to generate a high-frequency carrier frequency and a signal generation device (4) is designed to generate a therapy frequency, and wherein d) the modulator (18) generates the high-frequency signal by means of an amplitude modulation of the high-frequency carrier frequency with the therapy frequency.

Description

[0001] Device for performing high-frequency electrotherapy

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a device for performing high-frequency electrotherapy.

[0004] Devices for generating electrical, magnetic, and / or electromagnetic signals for treating the human body are known in practice, particularly in the form of electrostimulation devices. In most cases, such devices can be operated at various frequencies. The success of these devices often depends on identifying and applying a suitable therapy frequency for the specific individual case. This frequently requires consulting a specialist with relevant experience who, based on their expertise and considering the circumstances of each case, determines and applies, or recommends, a suitable therapy frequency. In particular, reference is made to devices known from practice, which are marketed under the brand names "Timewaver" and "Healy" in various versions.Reference is made, by way of example, to the products "Timewaver Frequency", "Timewaver Home", and "Healy". The invention relates in particular to further developments in connection with these and comparable products. All technical features of the aforementioned products are therefore expressly referenced herewith, especially those features that are implemented in all of the aforementioned products in the same or a similar manner.

[0005] German patent DE 10 2015 002 565 A1 discloses a system for controlling stimulation pulses during stimulation of a user, comprising at least one sensor, at least one data processing unit, and at least one pulse unit. Numerous different sensor types are mentioned as suitable, including near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) sensors. In this system, the data processing unit is configured to compare a value measured by a sensor with a threshold value and generate a control signal to the pulse unit when the measured value and the threshold value are in a predefined ratio to each other.

[0006] From DE 297 09 094 U1, a device for bioresonance therapy is known for the therapeutic application of electromagnetic therapy signals to a body, comprising an electrical circuit for receiving input signals from the body or substances via a receiving antenna or receiving electrode. The device also includes a signal processing stage for processing the signals from an output circuit and supplying the output signals to a transmitting antenna or transmitting electrode. This signal processing stage includes a delay circuit by which the output signals can be delayed relative to the input signals.

[0007] From DE 100 02 251 A1, an interactive wellness device for holistic sensory stimulation of humans is known, the functions of which are controlled and modulated at least indirectly by measured bodily states of the user.

[0008] Devices for generating electrical, magnetic and / or electromagnetic signals, which can be used with different therapy frequencies for the treatment of the human body, are known from US 2006 / 0064139 A1 and from DE 10 2015 002 565 A1.

[0009] The invention is based on the objective of providing a device for carrying out high-frequency electrotherapy that offers a new and easy-to-use way to perform high-frequency electrotherapy, in particular for self-application in the home environment without being carried out and / or supervised by a doctor or other medically trained person, such as a naturopath or special therapist.

[0010] The problem is solved according to the invention by the features of the independent claims. Further practical embodiments are described in connection with the dependent claims.

[0011] A device according to the invention for performing high-frequency electrotherapy comprises two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals into the body of a human or an animal. Furthermore, the device comprises a transmitter for transmitting a high-frequency signal and / or a modulator for generating and transmitting a high-frequency signal to the electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements.

[0012] In the context of the invention, a transformer is understood to be a component designed in such a way as to ensure conductive separation between a power grid and a physical body. In other words, the design of the transformer ensures that mains current cannot flow from the power grid to earth through a body attached to the device.

[0013] For the purposes of this invention, a modulator is understood to be a component capable of modulating a signal. In particular, a modulator is understood to be a component having at least two inputs and at least one output, wherein the modulator is capable of amplitude modulation of at least two input signals. The amplitude-modulated signal derived via the at least one output of the modulator is hereinafter referred to as a high-frequency signal.

[0014] The two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements are provided for transmitting the high-frequency signal supplied by the aforementioned transmitter and / or modulator. The high-frequency signal is coupled in using the electrodes or alternative skin contact elements, particularly via the skin. The device for performing high-frequency electrotherapy is designed for use on humans or animals. The aforementioned skin contact elements are specifically designed as coil-like contact surfaces and / or as capacitive contact surfaces.

[0015] The device according to the invention further comprises a low-impedance signal generator for generating a high-frequency carrier frequency. This low-impedance signal generator has, in particular, an internal resistance of no more than 10 Ω. This means that the internal resistance is significantly lower than the resistance that occurs between the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements that are arranged on the body of a human or animal when using the device according to the invention. This makes it possible to introduce a predominant portion of the carrier frequency energy into the body.

[0016] An apparatus according to the invention further comprises a signal generation device for generating a therapy frequency. For the purposes of the invention, a therapy frequency is understood to be a single isolated frequency, but especially also frequency mixtures. In this respect, noise, an audio signal, or a square wave signal are also to be understood as therapy frequencies within the meaning of the invention.

[0017] In the context of the invention, a carrier frequency is understood to be a single isolated frequency that is suitable for amplitude modulation with regard to the therapy frequency.

[0018] The carrier frequency and the therapy frequency are then applied to the inputs of the modulator, which performs amplitude modulation and provides the high-frequency signal. The invention is based on the finding that it is advantageous to use a high-frequency signal for electrotherapy. Using a high-frequency signal allows for a uniform distribution of the signal throughout the body of a human or animal. It has been recognized that therapy frequencies not originating from a high-frequency range can be transformed by amplitude modulation with a high-frequency carrier frequency in such a way that the resulting high-frequency signal propagates well within the body. In particular, it has been recognized that it is advantageous to perform high-frequency electrotherapy with a device that can be positioned and operated in close proximity to the body (so-called wearables).Introducing the high-frequency signal into the body via electrodes or alternative skin contact elements allows for efficient and widespread energy delivery to the body without exceeding applicable electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) guidelines.

[0019] Furthermore, it was found that the selection of a carrier frequency can depend on numerous characteristics that vary from person to person. Therefore, it can be advantageous to determine the carrier frequency individually for each body and the specific placement of the device on the body using a carrier frequency determination method. This allows the effectiveness of the treatment to be optimized by ensuring the best possible distribution of the energy introduced into the body.

[0020] In a practical embodiment of a device according to the invention, the signal generation device and the low-impedance signal generator are designed as mains-power-independent devices. In other words, the device can be carried on the body and operated using portable energy storage devices. Treatment can then be carried out regardless of location and independent of a suitable mains power infrastructure, for example, while traveling, in nature, or in areas with weak infrastructure. Additionally or alternatively, in a further practical embodiment of a device according to the invention, the signal generation device and the low-impedance signal generator can be functionally connected to a transformer with galvanic isolation. This ensures that no mains current flows through the body to ground.

[0021] In another practical embodiment of a device according to the invention, the device is designed such that the carrier frequency is at least twice as high as the therapy frequency.

[0022] Preferably, the carrier frequency is selected from a first frequency range between 0.5 MHz and 20 MHz, or from a second frequency range between 100 and 200 MHz, or from a third frequency range between 500 MHz and 1 GHz.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, the therapy frequency is preferably selected from a frequency range between 0.1 Hz and 12.5 MHz, in particular between 0.1 MHz and 12.5 MHz.

[0024] In another practical embodiment of a device according to the invention, the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements are spaced a maximum of 20 cm apart. A maximum distance of 15 cm is more preferred, and a maximum distance of 12 cm, 10 cm, or 5 cm is particularly preferred. The distance can also be chosen to be even smaller, for example, a maximum of 3 cm, 2 cm, or 1 cm. Depending on the selected distance, both electrodes or alternative skin contact elements can be arranged on a compact positioning unit, such as a wristband, leg band, finger band, or neckband, while maintaining the respective maximum distance.Additionally or alternatively, in a further practical embodiment of a device according to the invention, the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals are part of at least one positioning unit, in particular a single positioning unit. Arranging the electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements on a positioning unit facilitates their placement on the body.

[0025] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the at least one positioning unit is designed as a band enclosing a body region. In this regard, particular reference is made to the possibilities of designing the positioning unit as a wristband, leg band, abdominal belt, limb band, ring, or other band-like element. In this case, the positioning unit can be quickly and easily attached to the body. This arrangement particularly facilitates the administration and acceptance of high-frequency electrotherapy by the user, since the positioning unit can also be worn during movement and / or in different standing, sitting, and / or lying positions.Furthermore, in these cases the positioning unit can be arranged discreetly and even covertly on a body, as it is small in design, located in inconspicuous areas of the body and / or cannot be recognized as part of an electrotherapy device due to its external appearance.

[0026] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, a carrier frequency determination module is provided on the device. Such a carrier frequency determination module is particularly designed to perform at least one test measurement on a user in order to determine a carrier frequency that is particularly suitable for the user based on the result of the at least one test measurement.

[0027] Preferably, the carrier frequency detection module is designed as an integral part of the device. Alternatively, the carrier frequency detection module is manufactured as a separate element and functionally connected to the device.

[0028] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the signal generation device and the low-impedance signal generator are each part of separate devices that are functionally connected for use. In this way, for example, a device for generating electrical, magnetic, and / or electromagnetic signals for treating the human body, as known, for example, from WO 2018 / 228987 A1, can be used as the signal generation device. By functionally connecting it to the low-impedance signal generator, the combination of the two devices enables high-frequency electrotherapy.

[0029] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the signal generation device and the low-impedance signal generator are designed to be directly or indirectly connectable. The connection can be made, in particular, by plugging them together or by other coupling. Preferably, the connection is tool-free. In a further preferred embodiment, the connection is made by means of a quick-release coupling.

[0030] The device according to the invention can be used to carry out the method described below.

[0031] For this purpose, a transmitting device and a measuring device are used, the transmitting device corresponding to one of the embodiments described above. The method then comprises the following process steps:

[0032] In the first step of the process, the transmitter generates a first high-frequency signal at a first frequency. In a further step, the generated high-frequency signal is then coupled into the body. For this purpose, two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements are used, which are positioned on the surface of the body and functionally connected to the transmitter.

[0033] In a further step of the process, the coupled high-frequency signal is then received at a second position on the surface of the body. The measuring device is used to receive the high-frequency signal.

[0034] In a further step of the process, the transmitting device generates another high-frequency signal of a second frequency, the second frequency being different from the first frequency.

[0035] In a further step of the process, the generated high-frequency signal is then coupled into the body. For this purpose, two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements are used, which are positioned on the surface of the body and functionally connected to the transmitter.

[0036] In a further step of the process, the coupled high-frequency signal is then received at a second position on the surface of the body. The measuring device is used to receive the high-frequency signal.

[0037] In practice, the process steps, comprising the generation of a high-frequency signal with different frequencies, the coupling of this high-frequency signal into the body, and the reception of the high-frequency signal, can be repeated any number of times.

[0038] In this process, frequencies for generating the high-frequency signals can be selected, derived from the previous signals by a predefined step size. In this way, for example, different frequencies can be selected from a given frequency range. High-frequency signals with these frequencies are generated and coupled into the body one after the other. This achieves an iterative "scanning" of the predefined frequency range.

[0039] It should be noted that the step size can also be variable. In this case, the spacing between the frequencies at which high-frequency signals are generated is not equal. For example, the step size can be chosen so that a predefined frequency range can be iteratively "sampled" within a given time, provided the time for a measurement process is known. Alternatively, a mathematical model can be used to first perform a coarse sample with a larger step size, followed by a subsequent sample with a smaller step size in a smaller selected frequency range. It is also possible to keep the number of optimization processes variable—for example, within a specific time window—and, by utilizing a predefined time window, to reduce the optimization effort with each sample by continuously decreasing the step size.

[0040] In a further step of the process, the received high-frequency signals are evaluated using a processor unit. This can be either a processor unit of the measuring device or a processor unit of a transmitting device. During this evaluation, the carrier frequency is determined to be the frequency of the high-frequency signal at which the ratio of the power received by the measuring device to the power emitted by the transmitting device is greatest. In other words, the frequency of the high-frequency signal that exhibits the lowest losses when passing through the body is selected as the carrier frequency.

[0041] The method has the advantage that a carrier frequency can be determined individually, in particular adapted to the respective physical properties of a body to be treated and the arrangement of the electrodes and / or the alternative skin contact elements, so that good propagation of the carrier frequency in the body can take place.

[0042] In one variant of the method, either the transmitting device and / or the measuring device has at least one transformer with galvanic isolation.

[0043] The transmitting device and / or the measuring device can therefore be designed as either mains-powered or mains-powered devices. In the latter case, suitable galvanic isolation ensures that the mains current is not connected to earth via the body.

[0044] In a device that operates independently of mains power, galvanic isolation is achieved through the use of a battery / accumulator. In this case, a separate element, such as a transformer, is not required to achieve galvanic isolation.

[0045] In another variation of the procedure, the high-frequency signals introduced into the body are selected from a predefined frequency range. For example, the predefined frequency range could be the aforementioned frequency range of the therapy frequencies. This allows the high-frequency signal, since it is selected from the frequency range of the therapy frequency, to itself be used as a therapy frequency. Thus, by using this high-frequency signal for amplitude modulation with a single therapy frequency, two therapies can be performed simultaneously.

[0046] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the device is designed in the form of at least two sub-devices, namely a first sub-device and at least a second sub-device. The first sub-device and / or the second sub-device can, for example, be designed in the form of the separate devices mentioned above. The description below concerning the second sub-device also applies alternatively or additionally to further sub-devices, i.e., to a third sub-device and possibly further sub-devices, if such are provided. The respective features can therefore be provided not only on the second sub-device but also on a third sub-device and / or a fourth sub-device, etc. Or the features can additionally be provided on a third sub-device and / or a fourth sub-device, etc.

[0047] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device comprises the two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals into the body of a human or animal, the transmitter for transmitting the high-frequency signal and / or the modulator for generating and transmitting the high-frequency signal to the electrodes or to the alternative skin contact elements, and the low-impedance signal generator for generating the high-frequency carrier frequency. With regard to the two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements, the transmitter, the modulator, and the low-impedance signal generator, reference is made to the above descriptions, which also apply analogously here.

[0048] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the second sub-device comprises the signal generation device for generating the therapy frequency. With regard to the signal generation device, reference is made to the above descriptions, which also apply analogously here.

[0049] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device and the second sub-device can be connected to each other by a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection. In other words, a first form of the first sub-device can be adapted to a second form of the second sub-device, such that the first form and the second form are at least partially complementary. In this case, an intuitive connection can result for the user because the assembly or the resulting relative target position of the two sub-devices in the connected state is already evident from the – possibly distinctive and partially complementary – forms.

[0050] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has two parallel device contact elements, and the at least one second sub-device has two parallel device contact receptacles. For example, the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device are designed such that they project outwards from another element of the first sub-device. Alternatively or additionally, the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device are, in particular, designed in the form of metallic pins. For example, the two parallel device contact receptacles of the at least one second sub-device are designed in the form of openings in the at least one second sub-device.Preferably, the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device and the two parallel device contact receptacles of the at least one second sub-device are designed such that a force-fit and / or form-fit connection is created by connecting the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device with the two parallel device contact receptacles of the at least one second sub-device.

[0051] In particular, the two parallel device contact receptacles of the at least one second sub-device are arranged such that, when the first sub-device is arranged on the at least one second sub-device, the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device are connected to the two parallel device contact receptacles of the second sub-device via a conductive connection. The design of the two parallel device contact elements on the first sub-device and the two parallel device contact receptacles on the second sub-device allows for an intuitive arrangement of the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device on the two parallel device contact receptacles of the second sub-device.

[0052] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has two wristband coupling elements for a wristband. In other words, the first sub-device has two receptacles for the wristband. The wristband can be attached to the wristband coupling elements. Preferably, quick-release coupling elements are used, which allow connection by simply snapping them together using a click connection and / or a magnetic connection. Using the wristband, the first sub-device can be positioned on an arm. The wristband can, for example, be an 18 mm wide wristband, which is also suitable for use with commercially available wristwatches. Additionally or alternatively, the wristband can be made of a skin-friendly material. For example, the wristband can be made of a polymer compound, such as silicone.

[0053] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has a contact section projecting upwards. For example, the contact section projecting upwards is designed such that at least one second sub-device can be arranged on the contact section projecting upwards. Preferably, the device contact elements are arranged to project from the contact section. Additionally or alternatively, the contact section has a cavity in which electronic components for generating the carrier frequency are arranged. Furthermore, additionally or alternatively, an LED is arranged on the contact section, with which a functioning power supply and / or the operational readiness of the device is visually apparent to a user.The LED is preferably arranged in such a way that it is immediately visible to the user when wearing the bracelet with the device, or that the user can detect the LED lighting up as required by turning the bracelet or by opening a flap.

[0054] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has a contact surface with a circumferential boundary wall. For example, the contact surface with the circumferential boundary wall is arranged on the vertically projecting contact section of the first sub-device. The at least one second sub-device is arranged, in particular, on the contact surface. For example, the circumferential boundary wall is designed such that the at least one second sub-device is arranged on the first sub-device using the circumferential boundary wall when the first sub-device and the second sub-device are arranged together in a ready-to-use state.For example, the circumferential boundary wall for a positive fit between the first sub-device and the at least one second sub-device can be designed in a horizontal direction when the first sub-device and the second sub-device are arranged together in a ready-to-use configuration, wherein the horizontal direction is in a plane parallel to the two parallel device contact elements of the first sub-device. The circumferential boundary wall is preferably designed as a boundary wall that completely surrounds the contact surface.

[0055] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has a flat receiving surface. For example, the flat receiving surface of the first sub-device is designed such that the second sub-device can be arranged on the flat receiving surface of the first sub-device.

[0056] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has at least one further boundary wall as a lateral stop. The lateral stop is, for example, designed as a lateral stop for the arrangement of the second sub-device. In particular, the at least one further boundary wall is arranged to at least partially enclose or laterally limit the flat receiving surface. For example, the at least one further boundary wall can be designed to provide a positive-locking boundary between the first sub-device and the second sub-device in the horizontal direction when the first sub-device and the second sub-device are arranged together in a ready-to-use configuration. For this purpose, the boundary wall is designed, in particular, to project upwards from the receiving surface – preferably vertically.

[0057] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device has an opening for arranging a retaining element, for example in the form of a retaining clip, which is arranged in the opening for arranging a retaining element of the first sub-device when the first sub-device and the second sub-device are arranged next to each other in operational readiness.

[0058] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the first sub-device is designed such that it can be operated without its own energy storage device. For this purpose, a power supply is preferably provided to the first sub-device via the two parallel device contact elements from the at least one second sub-device to the first sub-device.

[0059] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements has at least one electrode contact surface for coupling the high-frequency signals into the body of the human or animal, wherein the size of the at least one electrode contact surface of each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements is 100 mm². 2exceeds. For example, the electrode contact surface of each of the two electrodes or alternative skin contact elements has a rectangular shape. For example, the rectangular shape has a first edge length and a second edge length, wherein the first edge length is greater than the second edge length. Preferably, a first electrode contact surface of a first electrode or a first skin contact element can be arranged at a distance from a second electrode contact surface of a second electrode or a second skin contact element, wherein the distance corresponds to the second edge length.

[0060] In a further practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements has a curved shape. Preferably, each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements has a circular arc-shaped surface. The radius of such a circular arc-shaped surface of each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements is selected to be adapted to the size of a human arm, particularly in the area of ​​the wrist, forearm, or upper arm. For example, the radius of the circular arc-shaped surface of each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements is selected from a range of 1.5 cm to 8 cm, preferably from a range of 1.5 cm to 6 cm, and more preferably from 2 cm to 4 cm.

[0061] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements is made of stainless steel. Preferably, each of the two electrodes or the alternative skin contact elements is made of medical-grade stainless steel (also known as surgical stainless steel). Such medical-grade stainless steel exhibits high biocompatibility, meaning that the material is very unlikely to be rejected by the body. Furthermore, such medical-grade stainless steel is corrosion-resistant.

[0062] In another practical embodiment of the device according to the invention, the high-frequency carrier frequency is fixed at a value between 4 and 6 MHz. With such a value, very good signal propagation within the human body is achieved. Further practical embodiments and advantages of the invention are described below in connection with the drawings. They show:

[0063] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram of a device according to the invention.

[0064] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the functioning of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 1 during use,

[0065] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram of a device according to the invention with a transformer,

[0066] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the operation of the device according to the invention with transmitter shown in Fig. 3 during application,

[0067] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram of a method,

[0068] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram of a method using transformers,

[0069] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a first sub-device of a device according to the invention,

[0070] Fig. 8 shows a perspective schematic representation of the first sub-device of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 7.

[0071] Fig. 9 shows a further perspective schematic representation of the first sub-device of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 8, Fig. 10 shows yet another perspective schematic representation of the first sub-device of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 7, Fig. 8 and Fig. 9,

[0072] Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of a device according to the invention with a first sub-device and a second sub-device and

[0073] Fig. 12 shows a perspective schematic representation of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 11, with the first sub-device and the second sub-device.

[0074] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram of a device 2 according to the invention. The device 2 shown has a signal generator 6 for generating a carrier frequency, which here is configured as a high-frequency signal generator 16. The device 2 also has a signal generation device 4, which includes a low-frequency signal generator 14. The signal generation device 4 is configured to provide a therapy frequency. This therapy frequency is fed through an amplifier 10 and a connector 20 to a modulator 18. The modulator 18 is also connected to the output of the high-frequency signal generator 16 and is configured to perform amplitude modulation of the carrier frequency and the therapy frequency. The resulting high-frequency signal is fed through the low-impedance amplifier 12 to two electrodes 22 and conducted through these into a body 100, here into the upper body of a human body 100.

[0075] In addition to or as an alternative to electrodes 22, skin contact elements (not shown) can be used to introduce the high-frequency signal into the body 100. Reference is made to the corresponding explanations given above, which also apply to this embodiment. Regarding the therapy frequency and the carrier frequency, reference is also made to the preceding explanations, which also apply to this embodiment.

[0076] The device 2 is preferably formed by a housing with small external dimensions, so that it can be worn comfortably on a person's body – and, if desired, discreetly. Preferably, the dimensions are smaller than 20 cm x 20 cm x 1 cm, and more preferably smaller than 10 cm x 10 cm x 0.5 cm.

[0077] The device 2 shown in Fig. 1 has portable energy storage devices 30, 32 for providing electrical energy to the elements 4, 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 (here: electronic components), which in the practical embodiment shown here are designed as accumulators and / or batteries.

[0078] It is pointed out that all elements 4, 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 (here: electronic components) can also be supplied with energy by only a single energy storage device 30, 32.

[0079] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of the operation of the device 2 according to the invention shown in Fig. 1 during application. In the embodiment shown, the device 2 is arranged on the forearm 101 of a body 100. The high-frequency signal is introduced into the body 100 via electrodes 22 and spreads from there over the entire body or at least over a large part of the body (cf. Fig. 1).

[0080] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram of a device according to the invention with transformer 42. In contrast to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, in Fig. 2 the elements 4, 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 42 (here: the electronic components) are supplied with electrical energy via a connection 40 to the mains power supply. The body 100 is then isolated from the circuit of the device 2 by a transformer 42 to protect against charges that could otherwise flow from the mains power supply through the body 100 into the ground.

[0081] It should be noted that only some of the elements shown 4, 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 42 (here: electronic components) can be supplied with energy from the power grid, while others are supplied with energy by energy storage devices 30, 32.

[0082] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the operation of the device 2 according to the invention shown in Fig. 3 with transformer 42 during use. The body 100 is separated from the circuit of the device 2 by the transformer 42, so that no charges from the connection 40 to the mains can flow to earth via the body 100.

[0083] Fig. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a circuit diagram for a method for determining a suitable carrier frequency for introducing high-frequency signals into a body 100. For this purpose, a transmitter 2 and a measuring device 50 are used, wherein the transmitter, as described above, introduces an amplitude-modulated high-frequency signal into a body 100 via electrodes 22. The amplitude-modulated high-frequency signal is generated by a modulator 18, which is connected at its inputs to a high-frequency signal generator 16 and a low-frequency signal generator 14. The intensity of the resulting amplitude-modulated high-frequency signal can be influenced by a low-impedance amplifier 12.

[0084] The transmitter also has an antenna 24, via which a processor unit 26 can communicate with the measuring device 50. The measuring device 50 is also located on the body 100, but in a different position than the transmitter 2. Electrodes 52, which are located on the skin of the body 100, conduct the high-frequency signal emitted by the transmitter 2 to the measuring device 50. The intensity of the high-frequency signal can be influenced by an amplifier 54 so that a processor unit 56 can process the resulting signal effectively. The processor unit 56 is connected to an antenna 58, via which communication with the transmitter 2 takes place. As described above, the therapy frequency is determined by the transmitter introducing various high-frequency signals of known intensity into the body 100.The measuring device 50 receives these high-frequency signals, and the intensity reached by the measuring device 50 can be determined. In this way, the attenuation by the body 100 at various frequencies of the high-frequency signal can be determined for that frequency and for the selected arrangement of electrodes 22, 52. The frequency with the lowest measured attenuation is then determined as the carrier frequency. In the embodiment shown, the transmitting device 2 and the measuring device 50 are powered by portable energy storage devices, such as accumulators and / or batteries. Additionally or alternatively, they can also be powered via a mains supply, as shown in Fig. 6.

[0085] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a circuit diagram for a method for determining a suitable carrier frequency for introducing high-frequency signals into a body 100 using transformers. For this purpose, a transmitter 2 and a measuring device 50 are connected to the power grid. By using two transformers 42, the circuit of the transmitter 2 and the measuring device 50 is isolated from the body 100, so that no charges can flow to ground via the body 100. This is indicated in Fig. 6 by the current Se, which is zero. For further details of the method, please refer to the explanations above, which apply analogously here as well.

[0086] Figures 7-12 show various representations of a first sub-device 60 of the device 2 according to the invention. The illustrated first sub-device 60 comprises the two electrodes 22 for coupling high-frequency signals into the body of a human or animal (see Figure 10), the modulator 18 (not shown in Figures 7-12) for generating and transmitting the high-frequency signal to the electrodes 22, and the low-impedance signal generator 6 (not shown in Figures 7-12) for generating the high-frequency carrier frequency in the form of the high-frequency signal generator 16 (not shown in Figures 7-12). With regard to the two electrodes 22, the modulator 18, and the high-frequency signal generator 16, reference is made to the above descriptions, which also apply analogously here. The first sub-device 60 has two parallel device contact elements 62 in the form of metallic pins.The two parallel device contact elements 62 of the first sub-device 60 are designed to project outwards from a system section 70. The system section 70 is designed to project upwards from the first sub-device 60. The system section 70 has a cavity in which the electronic components, such as a modulator and / or high-frequency signal generator 6, 16, are arranged. A light-emitting diode 94 is arranged on the system section 70, which visually indicates to a user that the device 2 is ready for operation. The energy required to operate the first sub-device 60 is supplied to the first sub-device 60 via the two parallel device contact elements 62.

[0087] To accommodate a second sub-device (not shown in Fig. 7) on the first sub-device 60, the first sub-device 60 has a contact surface 72 with a circumferential boundary wall (not shown in Fig. 7). The contact surface 72 with the circumferential boundary wall is arranged on the vertically projecting mounting section 70. The circumferential boundary wall is designed to provide a positive fit between the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device (64) in a horizontal direction when the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device (64) are arranged together in a ready-to-use configuration, with the horizontal direction being in a plane parallel to the two parallel device contact elements 62. Furthermore, the first sub-device 60 has a flat receiving surface 80.The flat receiving surface 80 is designed such that the second sub-device can be arranged on the flat receiving surface 80 of the first sub-device 60.

[0088] Furthermore, the first sub-device 60 has two additional boundary walls 82 as lateral stops. The lateral stop is designed as a lateral stop for the arrangement of the second sub-device. The additional boundary walls 82 are arranged laterally opposite each other on the flat receiving surface 80. The additional boundary walls 82 ensure a positive fit between the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device (64) in the horizontal direction when the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device (64) are arranged together in a ready-to-use configuration.

[0089] The first sub-device 60 further comprises two bracelet coupling elements (not shown in Fig. 7) for a bracelet 90.

[0090] Fig. 8 shows a perspective schematic representation of the first sub-device 60 of the device according to the invention shown in Fig. 7.

[0091] Fig. 9 shows a further perspective schematic representation of the first sub-device 60 of the device according to the invention, as shown in Figs. 7 and 8. Fig. 9 shows one of the two wristband coupling elements 92. Furthermore, Fig. 9 shows an opening 96 for arranging a retaining element. Fig. 9 also shows the boundary wall 74 surrounding the contact surface 72.

[0092] Fig. 10 shows a further perspective schematic representation of the first sub-device 60 of the device according to the invention, as shown in Figs. 7, 8, and 9. Fig. 10 shows the electrodes 22 arranged on the first sub-device 60. Each electrode 22 has an electrode contact surface 84 for coupling the high-frequency signals into the body of the human or animal. The size of the electrode contact surface 84 exceeds 100 mm². 2 The electrode contact surface 84 has a rectangular shape. The electrode contact surfaces 84 shown in Fig. 10 are spatially spaced precisely such that the gap between them is exactly the same size as each electrode contact surface 84. The two electrodes 22 have arc-shaped surfaces. The radius of each arc-shaped surface is selected to match the size of an arm.

[0093] Each of the two electrodes 22 is made of medical-grade stainless steel. Regarding the medical-grade stainless steel, please refer to the above explanations.

[0094] Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of a device 2 according to the invention, comprising a first sub-device 60 and a second sub-device 64. The second sub-device 64 includes the signal generation device 4 for generating the therapy frequency. With regard to the signal generation device 4, the first sub-device 60, and the second sub-device 64, reference is made to the above descriptions, which also apply analogously here.

[0095] In Fig. 11, the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device 64 are connected to each other by a positive-locking and / or force-locking connection. For this purpose, a first form of the first sub-device 60 is adapted to a second form of the second sub-device 64, such that the first form and the second form interact in such a way that the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device 64 are connected. In the arrangement shown in Fig.In the arrangement of the first sub-device 60 on the second sub-device 64 shown in Figure 11, this is achieved by the device contact elements 62 of the first sub-device 60, by device contact receptacles of the second sub-device 64, by the mounting section 70 of the first sub-device 60, by the contact surface 72 of the first sub-device 60, by the circumferential boundary wall 74 of the first sub-device 60, by the receiving surface 80 of the first sub-device 60, by the further boundary walls 82 of the first sub-device 60, by the opening 96 of the first sub-device 60 and / or by a retaining clip 98 of the second sub-device 64.

[0096] In the device 2 shown in Fig. 11, the second sub-device 64 has an energy source which supplies the first sub-device 60 with electrical energy using the device contact elements 62 of the first sub-device 60 connected by conductors and the device contact receptacles of the second sub-device 64.

[0097] Fig. 12 shows a perspective schematic representation of the device 2 according to the invention shown in Fig. 11, comprising the first sub-device 60 and the second sub-device 64. Fig. 12 illustrates how a retaining clip 98 of the second sub-device 64 engages in the opening 96 of the first sub-device 60, thus bringing the first sub-device 60 into position on the second sub-device 64.

[0098] The features of the invention disclosed in the present description, the drawings, and the claims can be essential for realizing the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. The invention can be varied within the scope of the claims and taking into account the knowledge of the person skilled in the art.

[0099] All features mentioned in relation to the device, including optional features, can also be understood as features of the method and thus used to describe the method. Reference numerals list

[0100] 2 High-frequency electrotherapy devices

[0101] 4 Signal generation device

[0102] 6 Signal generator

[0103] 10 amplifiers

[0104] 12 low-impedance amplifiers

[0105] 14 Low-frequency signal generator

[0106] 16 High-frequency signal generator

[0107] 18 Modulator

[0108] 20 plugs

[0109] 22 electrodes

[0110] 24 antenna

[0111] 26 processor units

[0112] 30 energy storage devices

[0113] 32 energy storage devices

[0114] 40 Connection to the power grid

[0115] 42 transformers

[0116] 50 measuring device

[0117] 52 electrodes

[0118] 54 amplifiers

[0119] 56 processor units

[0120] 58 Antenna

[0121] 60 first sub-device

[0122] 62 Device contact element

[0123] 64 second sub-device

[0124] 70 Plant section

[0125] 72 contact area

[0126] 74 surrounding boundary wall

[0127] 80 recording area

[0128] 82 more boundary walls

[0129] 84 Electrode contact area

[0130] 90 bracelet

[0131] 92 Bracelet coupling element 94 Light-emitting diode

[0132] 96 Opening for the arrangement of a retaining element

[0133] 98 retaining clip

[0134] 100 Body 101 Forearm

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (2) for performing high-frequency electrotherapy with a) two electrodes (22) or alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals into a body (100) of a human or an animal, b) a transmitter (42) for transmitting a high-frequency signal and / or a modulator (18) for generating and transmitting a high-frequency signal to the electrodes (22) or to the alternative skin contact elements, c) wherein a low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) for generating a high-frequency carrier frequency and a signal generation device (4) for generating a therapy frequency are configured, and wherein d) the modulator (18) generates the high-frequency signal such that it results from an amplitude modulation of the high-frequency carrier frequency with the therapy frequency.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the signal generation device (4) and the low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) have at least one of the following features: The signal generation device (4) and the low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) are designed as mains-independent devices; the signal generation device (4) and the low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) are functionally connected to a transformer (42) with galvanic isolation.

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the carrier frequency is at least twice as high as the highest therapy frequency.

4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the therapy frequency is selected from a frequency range between 0.1 Hz and 12.5 MHz.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two electrodes (22) or the alternative skin contact elements have a maximum distance of 20 cm from each other.

6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two electrodes (22) or the alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals are part of at least one positioning unit.

7. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the at least one positioning unit is designed in the manner of a band enclosing a body area.

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a carrier frequency determination module (50) is provided which is configured to perform at least one test measurement on a user in order to determine a carrier frequency particularly suitable for the user based on the result of the at least one test measurement.

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal generation device (4) and the low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) are each part of separate devices, which are functionally linked for application.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal generation device (4) and the low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) are designed to be directly or indirectly connectable.

11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (2) is designed in the form of at least two sub-devices (60; 64), namely in the form of a first sub-device (60) and at least a second sub-device (64).

12. Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) comprises the two electrodes (22) or alternative skin contact elements for coupling high-frequency signals into the body (100) of the human or animal, the transmitter (42) for transmitting the high-frequency signal and / or the modulator (18) for generating and transmitting the high-frequency signal to the electrodes (22) or to the alternative skin contact elements and the low-impedance signal generator (6, 16) for generating the high-frequency carrier frequency.

13. Device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the second sub-device (64) comprises the signal generation device (4) for generating the therapy frequency.

14. Device according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) and the second sub-device (64) can be connected to each other by a positive locking and / or force locking connection.

15. Device according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has two parallel device contact elements (62) and that the second Sub-device (64) has two parallel device contact receptacles.

16. Device according to one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has two bracelet coupling elements (92) for a bracelet (90).

17. Device according to one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has a vertically projecting installation section (70).

18. Device according to one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has a contact surface (72) with a circumferential boundary wall (74).

19. Device according to one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has a flat receiving surface (80).

20. Device according to one of claims 11 to 19, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has at least one further boundary wall (82) as a lateral stop.

21. Device according to one of claims 11 to 20, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) has an opening (96) for arranging a retaining element.

22. Device according to one of claims 11 to 21, characterized in that the first sub-device (60) is supplied with energy by the second sub-device (64).

23. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the two electrodes (22) or the alternative skin contact elements has at least one electrode contact surface (84) for coupling the high-frequency signals into the body (100) of the human or animal, wherein the size of the at least one electrode contact surface (84) of each of the two electrodes (22) or of the alternative skin contact elements is 100 mm 2 exceeds.

24. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the two electrodes (22) or the alternative skin contact elements has a curved shape, in particular a circular arc-shaped surface.

25. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each of the two electrodes (22) or the alternative skin contact elements is made of stainless steel.

26. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the high-frequency carrier frequency is fixed at a value between 4 and 6 MHz.

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