Massage block and handheld massage device for compressive microvibration treatment

Abstract

The invention relates to a massage block (1) for a handheld massage device for compressive microvibration treatment and to the handheld massage device equipped with the massage block (1). The massage block (1) is constructed as a cage-like roller and comprises multiple threaded-spindle massage elements (1.1) which, during compressive microvibration treatment, can generate thrust forces in addition to pressure changes. The handheld massage device equipped with the massage block (1) permits intensive tissue mobilisation during massage and is suitable in this respect for releasing muscle tensions, for promoting blood circulation, for smoothing the skin and for improving the skin structure.

Description

[0001] Massage block and handheld massage device for compressive microvibration treatment

[0002] The invention relates to a massage block for a handheld massage device for compressive microvibration therapy, as well as the handheld massage device equipped with the massage block. The massage block and / or the handheld massage device are suitable for performing professional intensive massages to relieve muscle tension, promote blood circulation, smooth the skin, and improve skin texture.

[0003] Massage devices for compressive microvibration therapy typically include a handheld massager with a rotating massage block. This block is placed on the body parts to be treated. The massage block is designed as a cage-like roller to which various massage elements are attached, such as freely rotating balls or stationary ball rods. As the massage block rotates, the treated body parts are continuously subjected to pressure and relief by the massage elements. The numerous pressure changes from the massage elements generate microvibrations in the treated areas, which loosen the muscles and stimulate blood circulation in the tissue.Since the massage handheld device and the massage block are always applied to the treated body parts under slight pressure, this type of massage is also known as "compressive microvibration treatment".

[0004] In addition to the massage handheld device, massage devices for compressive microvibration treatment usually also include a station for power supply and control of the massage handheld device.

[0005] Common handheld massage devices for compressive microvibration therapy typically have a partially open massage block housing into which the massage block is integrated. To allow the massage block to be placed on the body parts to be treated, the massage block and its massage elements are exposed at one opening in the housing. The rest of the housing covers the massage block to protect the user from accidental contact with the rotating massage block. The handheld massage device also usually has a handle for manual operation. To increase the massage pressure, the user can also use the housing itself as a grip (preferably with their other hand) in addition to the handle.

[0006] Known massage blocks of the described handheld massage devices for compressive microvibration therapy are designed as cage-like rollers extending along the axis of rotation of the respective massage block, with a circular end cap at each axial end. Between the two end caps are several massage elements arranged along massage element axes. The massage element axes are each parallel to the axis of rotation and usually equidistant from it, with each massage element axis being equidistant from its adjacent axis. The massage element axes thus form a cage-like arrangement, coaxial with the axis of rotation. In a known embodiment of the massage block, the massage element axes are round rods rigidly clamped between the end caps, onto which massage elements designed as perforated spheres are slid and radially mounted.During compressive microvibration therapy, the massage elements, designed as spheres, rotate freely on the massage element axes, which are designed as round rods. The result is a comparatively gentle massage treatment, as the freely rotating massage elements in contact with the body part do not exert any traction on the skin. A handheld massage device equipped with such a massage block is known from WO 2007 / 122656 A1. In another known embodiment of the massage block, the massage element axes are spherical rods firmly clamped between the end caps, which thicken and thin in a wave-like or bead-like manner along their axial extension. Here, the massage element axes themselves constitute the massage elements. Since the massage elements, or rather...Since the massage element axes do not rotate during compressive microvibration therapy, the massage is significantly more intense and generally requires wearing a suit to prevent pulling on the skin. With conventional handheld massage devices, pressure changes are generated exclusively in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This limits the massage effect to vertical compression; that is, the rotating massage elements produce regular and uniform massage effects. This can limit the effectiveness of the treatment, as it creates repeatable patterns that may not penetrate deeply enough to target problem areas.

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide an improved massage block for a handheld massage device for compressive microvibration therapy, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art and enables a more intensive and variable massage. The aim is not only to optimize the pressure effect, but also to generate targeted thrust forces along the axis of rotation in order to intensify the massage effects and achieve deeper tissue mobilization.

[0008] This problem is solved by a massage block for a handheld massage device for compressive microvibration therapy according to claim 1, and by the handheld massage device equipped with the massage block according to claim 10. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are listed in claims 2 to 9.

[0009] According to the invention, the massage block for a handheld massage device for compressive microvibration therapy is designed in the form of a cage-like roller along an axis of rotation. This roller structure extends around the axis of rotation of the massage block and contains several massage element axes that are distributed rotationally symmetrically around the circumference of the massage block. The massage element axes are arranged parallel to the axis of rotation, preferably at equal intervals between each other and at equal intervals from the axis of rotation.

[0010] The massage element axes are clamped between two fixed end caps to ensure stable mounting and uniform rotation of the massage block. The massage block comprises several threaded spindle massage elements, i.e., massage elements designed as threaded spindles. These threaded spindle massage elements are arranged along the massage element axes. Each massage element axis is associated with at least one threaded spindle massage element. Either the respective massage element axis is its associated threaded spindle massage element, or the respective massage element axis carries one or more of its associated threaded spindle massage elements.

[0011] The use of the massage block with its threaded spindle massage elements results in pressure changes at the contact points between the massage elements and the body part being treated. These changes occur not only in planes perpendicular to the massage block's axis of rotation, but also simultaneously in shear forces perpendicular to this axis, i.e., in directions parallel to the axis of rotation. The result is an intensive kneading of the treated body part. In contrast, with conventional massage blocks, the force transmission to the body part being treated at the contact point of the respective massage element occurs almost exclusively perpendicular to the massage block's axis of rotation, typically in the direction of the applied pressure.

[0012] In conjunction with the manual guidance of the massage handheld device, the multitude of pressure changes caused by the threaded spindle massage elements, associated with pushing movements, leads to constantly changing, chaotic, non-repeating massage effects.

[0013] Using the massage block with the threaded spindle massage elements, deep tissue mobilization can be achieved during compressive microvibration treatment as a result of the pressure and thrust forces acting on the treated body parts.

[0014] According to the invention, the proposed handheld massage device includes the described massage block. The handheld massage device also has a drive motor coupled to the massage block, typically an electric motor, which is supplied with electrical energy via a cable or battery. The drive motor sets the massage block into the desired rotational movement. The handheld massage device according to the invention is therefore a powered handheld massage device, i.e., not a purely manually operated handheld massage device. The use of the handheld massage device equipped with the massage block according to the invention enables more intensive and varied massages within the framework of compressive microvibration therapy compared to handheld massage devices with known massage blocks. The therapeutic possibilities of compressive microvibration therapy are thus significantly expanded with the handheld massage device according to the invention.

[0015] Deep tissue mobilization promotes blood circulation and improves lymphatic drainage, enabling the more effective removal of accumulated fluids and metabolic waste products. The combination of pressure and pushing movements tightens connective tissue, thereby reducing the appearance of cellulite, for example. The massage block according to the invention and the handheld massager equipped with it are therefore particularly suitable for cosmetic applications for skin smoothing and improving skin texture.

[0016] The massage handheld device is typically part of a massage system used for professional massage treatments. This massage system usually includes a power supply and control unit for the massage handheld device.

[0017] According to one design of the massage block, each of the massage element axes is either directly designed as its associated threaded spindle massage element, or the respective threaded spindle massage element(s) are fixed to the associated massage element axis. This means that in both cases, the threaded spindle massage elements have a fixed connection to the massage element axes and are not freely movable. The threaded spindle massage elements are thus fixed between the two end caps of the massage block. This ensures that the threaded spindle massage elements remain fixed and stable when the massage block rotates, thereby guaranteeing a direct transmission of the generated forces to the treated body parts. The fixed attachment of the threaded spindle massage elements enables an intensive and controlled transmission of the shear and pressure forces to the tissue.The massage effect is maximized because the massage elements do not perform any additional movements during rotation that could affect contact with the tissue. This design is particularly useful for applications where deep tissue massage or vigorous kneading of the tissue is desired.

[0018] According to an alternative design of the massage block, the threaded spindle massage element(s) assigned to one of the massage element axes are mounted on the respective massage element axis so as to be freely rotatable. That is, the threaded spindle massage elements are designed to be mounted on the massage element axes so as to be freely rotatable. Each threaded spindle massage element has an axial core bore through which the respective massage element axis, for example, designed as a round rod, passes. This allows the threaded spindle massage elements to rotate about their own axis independently of the rotational movement of the massage block. The threaded spindle massage elements each form a radial bearing on the massage element axes. This type of bearing reduces friction between the threaded spindle massage elements and the skin and ensures a gentler massage effect.The rolling motion prevents pulling on the skin and reduces the risk of skin irritation, especially on sensitive skin. The freely rotating base offers additional flexibility during use and can be particularly advantageous on sensitive areas of the body where gentle treatment is desired.

[0019] It has proven effective to design the massage block with 5 to 15 massage element axes. This range is intended to achieve an optimal balance between massage intensity and even coverage of the body areas being treated. The number of 5 to 15 massage element axes ensures that there are enough threaded spindle massage elements to guarantee effective tissue mobilization. Too few axes lead to unpleasant pressure changes during the massage; conversely, too many result in a more delicate construction with reduced robustness. The number of 5 to 15 massage element axes thus allows for an even distribution of massage forces and contributes to a harmonious massage effect. This is particularly important for distributing the massage intensity evenly across the entire treated area, thereby ensuring an effective and comfortable treatment.

[0020] The massage block preferably has an even number of massage element axes. This allows the threaded spindle massage elements to be arranged in pairs or evenly distributed groups around the rotational axis of the massage block. This configuration helps to achieve a symmetrical and balanced massage effect.

[0021] It can further be provided that the massage block is designed with an even number of massage element axes, with the threaded spindle massage elements being assigned to the massage element axes such that the threaded spindle massage elements are arranged circumferentially on the massage block with alternating left-hand and right-hand threads. This arrangement causes the thrust forces of the threaded spindle massage elements to superimpose in opposite directions along the axis of rotation, and their direction to constantly change. The alternating orientation of the threads results in a more chaotic and irregular massage of the tissue areas, thereby increasing the depth and effectiveness of the massage. The chaotic and irregular massage effects lead to a particularly dynamic tissue stimulation.

[0022] The threaded spindle massage elements preferably have a thread profile with rounded thread crests and smooth thread valleys. In particular, the thread crests are rounded towards the thread flanks, resulting in a smooth, edge-free thread profile in longitudinal projection. This design is specifically intended to avoid sharp edges that could cause skin irritation. The rounded thread crests enhance massage comfort by gently rubbing against the skin's surface. The smooth thread valleys provide a gentle transition zone between the thread crests, leading to a more pleasant massage experience and reducing friction on the skin.

[0023] The thread profile can also be symmetrical. This symmetrical profile ensures an even and balanced distribution of forces during the massage. In combination with the rounded thread crests and valleys, the symmetrical thread profile provides uniform pressure distribution and prevents uncomfortable pressure points on the skin. This makes the massage more comfortable and reduces the risk of skin irritation, especially during intensive use.

[0024] The helix angle of the thread of the threaded spindle massage elements is preferably in the range of 10° to 40°, and particularly preferably in the range of 20° to 25°. By selecting a specific helix angle, the intensity of the generated thrusting movements and the type of massage effect can be influenced. A smaller helix angle, closer to 10°, produces gentler thrusting movements and is suitable for a lighter, relaxing massage that has a less intense effect on the tissue. A larger helix angle, closer to 40°, results in stronger thrust forces parallel to the axis of rotation. The helix angle range of 20° to 25° is universally suitable for most applications.

[0025] Typically, each massage element axis is assigned to exactly one of the threaded spindle massage elements. The threaded spindle massage element therefore usually extends from one end cap to the other end cap of the massage block.

[0026] However, it is also possible for several threaded spindle massage elements to be assigned to each massage element axis, with the threaded spindle massage elements arranged axially in a row along the respective massage element axis. The threaded spindle massage elements arranged in a row can have different designs, particularly different geometric shapes, for example, in terms of their size, shape, or thread pitch. This variation allows for a differentiated massage effect along a single massage element axis, as different massage effects can be generated by the different geometries of the threaded spindle massage elements. It is also possible to combine the threaded spindle massage elements with other massage elements, such as balls or ball rods.

[0027] In another embodiment, the threaded spindle massage elements are made of materials of varying hardness and / or stiffness. This means the massage block incorporates a variety of materials from which the threaded spindle massage elements are manufactured. These differences allow the massage effect to be adapted to different body areas or massage requirements. Harder threaded spindle massage elements produce a more intense and deeper massage effect because they yield less and transmit the thrust and pressure forces more effectively to the tissue. They are particularly suitable for severely tense or deep-lying muscle groups. Softer massage elements offer a gentler massage and are better suited for sensitive areas of the body or for treating individuals who prefer a less intense massage. The softer materials conform better to the skin's surface and reduce the risk of skin irritation.By combining massage elements with varying degrees of firmness, the massage block can be designed to optimally treat different massage zones on the body. For example, softer elements can be placed at the ends and firmer ones in the middle of the massage block to achieve a graduated massage effect. Alternatively, an alternating arrangement of the threaded spindle massage elements with different degrees of firmness ensures varying stimulation of the body parts being treated.

[0028] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to an exemplary embodiment and to the schematic drawings, wherein identical or similar features are provided with the same reference numerals; to this end, the following are shown:

[0029] Fig. 1: a handheld massage device with one version of the massage block in side view, Fig. 2: the handheld massage device with the massage block in longitudinal section,

[0030] Fig. 3: the handheld massage device with the massage block shown in exploded view,

[0031] Fig. 4: the design of the massage block in front view,

[0032] Fig. 5: the design of the massage block in side view,

[0033] Fig. 6: a side view of the threaded spindle massage element and

[0034] Fig. 7: the design of the threaded spindle massage element in longitudinal section.

[0035] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate the construction of the handheld massage device with an embodiment of the massage block 1 according to the invention. The central component of the handheld massage device is the massage block 1, which is designed in the form of a cage-like roller. The massage block 1 comprises several threaded spindle massage elements 1.1, which simultaneously form the massage element axes and are arranged coaxially around the axis of rotation of the massage block 1.

[0036] The end caps 1.2, which fix the massage element axes, are located at the axial ends of the massage block 1. The end caps 1.2 serve as attachment points for the massage element axes and ensure that the massage block 1 rotates evenly without affecting the position of the massage element axes or the threaded spindle massage elements 1.1.

[0037] The massage block housing 2 partially encloses the massage block 1 and protects the operator from unintentional contact with the rotating components. An opening in the massage block housing 2 allows direct contact between the threaded spindle massage elements 1.1 and the body part being treated.

[0038] The handle 3 is ergonomically designed and serves to guide the massage handheld device safely. It is positioned so that the operator can precisely place the massage block 1 on the body parts to be treated during the massage. A housing grip 5 is also attached to the massage block housing 2, by means of which the operator – preferably with their other hand – can apply pressure directly to the massage block 1. A drive motor 4 is located inside the massage handheld device and drives the massage block 1; it ensures the rotation of the massage block 1 around its axis of rotation. Control and power supply are typically wired (for example, via the connecting cable 6 shown only in Fig. 1), but can also be implemented wirelessly using a battery.

[0039] The massage block 1, according to the embodiment of the handheld massage device shown in Figures 1 to 3 and detailed in Figures 4 and 5, has ten threaded spindle massage elements 1.1, which simultaneously form the massage element axes and are firmly clamped between the two end caps 1.2. The end caps 1.2 are disc-shaped and form the outer boundaries of the massage block 1; they serve as supports for the massage element axes and the threaded spindle massage elements 1.1. The massage element axes and the threaded spindle massage elements 1.1 are aligned parallel to the axis of rotation of the massage block 1 and form a cage-like structure that is rotationally symmetrical and coaxial with the axis of rotation. In the circumferential arrangement, the threaded spindle massage elements 1.1 alternate between right-hand and left-hand threads.

[0040] The scaled drawings in Figures 6 and 7 illustrate one embodiment of the threaded spindle massage element 1.1, which has a symmetrical thread profile that is rounded in side view, longitudinal section, and projection. The thread crests 7 are rounded towards the thread flanks 9, and the thread valleys 8 are rounded. Figures 6 and 7 also show that the rounded thread crests 7 are slightly flattened in the middle. This flattening increases the contact area with the skin and contributes to a more even distribution of the massage forces. The helix angle of the thread of the threaded spindle massage element 1.1 is 22° in this example. Figure 7 also shows two end-end (unlabeled) mounting holes through which the threaded spindle massage element 1.1 can be attached to the end caps 1.2 by means of screws. Reference numeral list

[0041] 1 massage block

[0042] 1.1 Threaded spindle massage element 1.2 End cap

[0043] 2 massage block housings

[0044] 3 handle

[0045] 4 Drive motor

[0046] 5 Housing handle 6 Connection cable

[0047] 7 Thread Mountain

[0048] 8 thread valley

[0049] 9 thread flank

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 14 January 2026 (14.01.2026) 1. Massage block (1) for a handheld massage device for compressive microvibration therapy, wherein the massage block (1) is constructed in the form of a cage-like roller extending along an axis of rotation of the massage block (1) with several massage element axes arranged uniformly around its circumference and parallel to the axis of rotation, and wherein the massage element axes are clamped firmly between two end caps (1.2), wherein the massage block (1) is designed to rotate about its axis of rotation during compressive microvibration therapy, characterized in that the massage block (1) comprises several threaded spindle massage elements (1.1), each designed as a threaded spindle, which directly contact a body part to be treated during compressive microvibration therapy, wherein each of the massage element axes comprises at least one threaded spindle massage element (1.1) is assigned, and wherein either the respective massage element axis is the threaded spindle massage element (1 .1 ) assigned to it, or the respective massage element axis carries one or more of the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1 ) assigned to it.

2. Massage block (1 ) according to claim 1 , characterized in that either each of the massage element axes is the threaded spindle massage element (1.1 ) associated with it or each of the massage element axes is rigidly connected with the threaded spindle massage element(s) (1.1 ) associated with it.

3. Massage block (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the threaded spindle(s) assigned to one of the massage element axes Massage elements (1.1) are freely rotatable on this massage element axis, each of the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1) having an axial core bore through which the associated massage element axis passes.

4. Massage block (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the massage block (1) has an even number of massage element axes, wherein the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1) are assigned to the massage element axes such that the threaded spindle Massage elements (1.1 ) are arranged on the massage block (1 ) with alternating left-hand and right-hand threads.

5. Massage block (1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1 ) each have a symmetrical thread profile with rounded thread crests (7) and rounded thread valleys (8).

6. Massage block (1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1 ) each have a thread with a pitch angle in the range of 10° to 40°.

7. Massage block (1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the number of massage element axes is in the range of 5 to 15.

8. Massage block (1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that several threaded spindle massage elements (1.1 ) are assigned to each of the massage element axes, which are arranged axially in series one behind the other on this massage element axis, wherein the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1 ) arranged in series are designed differently.

9. Massage block (1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the threaded spindle massage elements (1.1 ) are made of materials of different hardness and / or different stiffness.

10. Massage hand device comprising a drive motor (4), characterized in that the massage hand device has a massage block (1) which can be driven by means of the drive motor (4) rotating about the axis of rotation of the massage block (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

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