Ear Massage Device With Spring-Mounted Eccentric Shaft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for treating tinnitus through mechanical action have moderate success and often fail to induce sufficient movement of the auricle and inner ear, lacking the therapeutic benefits of slow, non-vibrating massage and heat generation at acupuncture points.
Innovation Solution
An ear massage device with a shaft speed of up to 75 revolutions per minute, a detachable eccentric and massage part, and a supporting plate for comfort, allowing for adjustable speed and direction, and a spring-mounted design to accommodate different ear shapes and sizes, ensuring gentle and effective massage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-frequency vibrations are used for ear treatment, then mechanical stimulation is provided, but the desired therapeutic effect on acupuncture points is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of massage speed from high-frequency vibration to slow movement (maximum 75 rpm, preferably maximum 50 rpm). This parameter change enables the massage element to gently move along acupuncture points in the ear, providing effective mechanical stimulation without the harmful effects of high-frequency vibration, thereby resolving the contradiction between treatment effectiveness and appropriate massage speed
2Adaptability or versatility
If the shaft is spring-mounted to accommodate ear movements, then adaptability to different ear shapes is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device into distinct functional components: a housing, a shaft, and a spring element. The spring element is specifically positioned to mount the shaft in a manner that allows it to move independently in response to ear movements. This segmentation enables the complex function of adaptability to be achieved through a simple, dedicated mechanical component rather than a complex overall structure
3Reliability
If the massage part is made movable on the housing to enable circular movements, then massage effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the massage part movable relative to the housing rather than fixed. The guide profile creates a controlled dynamic movement path that enables circular motions of the massage element. This dynamic design allows the massage part to adapt to the ear's contours and provide effective circular massage, achieving improved massage effectiveness without requiring complex mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device achieves clear treatment successes by inducing small movements and heat, promoting deep relaxation, improving sleep and muscle relaxation, and providing positive psychological effects through tailored massage sessions.
Implementation Method 1
the shaft or massage element can be spring-mounted in the direction of the axis of rotation
Implementation Method 2
The warmth generated by the friction during the massage is also beneficial for the patient
Data Source
Figure 1~2d
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The device (1) has a motor (2), a shaft (3) rotated by the motor around a rotational axis (X) and a massage portion (5). An excentric (4) is connected with the shaft and at which the massage portion is arranged. The shaft is rotated by the motor with a maximum of 100 revolutions per minute. The motor is directly connected to the shaft. The massage portion is formed one piece with the excentric. A padding or a mold part formed of plastic, rubber, foam or wood is provided on a plate (7) connected with the massage portion.