Massage Applicator PCB Control for Vibration Damage Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing percussive massage devices are expensive, heavy, tethered to power sources, noisy, and lack the ability to vary pressure based on individual user needs, relying on therapist skill and memory for consistent treatment.
Innovation Solution
A portable electromechanical percussive massage applicator with a single PCB that includes a clock module, controller, optical sensor, and accelerometer, allowing for adjustable vibration levels controlled via a swivel dial and integrated Bluetooth connectivity, along with automotive-grade components for vibration resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional electromechanical percussive massage devices are used, then percussive massage function is provided, but the devices are expensive, large, heavy, and require tethering to power sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate components (motor, battery, control circuitry, Bluetooth module) into a single integrated handheld device. The motor and battery are housed together in one unit, eliminating the need for external power sources and complex tethering arrangements, thereby achieving portability while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates multiple functions within a single unit: percussive massage delivery, wireless Bluetooth connectivity for control and monitoring, rechargeable battery power, and multiple vibration level settings. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate devices and accessories, improving ease of operation while distributing complexity across integrated components.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If conventional percussive massage devices are used, then massage function is provided, but they are noisy due to mechanisms converting rotational energy to reciprocating motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical mechanism that converts rotational motor energy to reciprocating piston motion with a direct-drive electromagnetic shaker. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, gears, and pistons that generate noise, while maintaining effective percussive delivery through direct electromagnetic vibration generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device offers multiple vibration level settings that allow users to adjust the intensity and frequency parameters of the percussive output. By providing variable control over vibration parameters, the system can operate at lower noise-generating levels when high power is not required, thus reducing noise while preserving motor efficiency for when it is needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual percussive massage is applied by a therapist, then pressure can be adjusted based on user needs, but the therapist may tire and cannot provide consistent treatment
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-administered percussive massage therapy through intuitive controls including a power button, mode button, and volume wheel for adjusting vibration levels. Users can independently control pressure and duration without therapist intervention, ensuring consistent treatment delivery while maintaining adaptability to individual needs through programmable modes and adjustable settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates Bluetooth connectivity that allows real-time monitoring and adjustment of treatment parameters. The system can provide feedback to the user about current vibration levels, duration, and mode, enabling precise control and consistent repetition of treatment protocols. This digital feedback mechanism ensures treatment consistency while allowing easy adaptation of parameters.
4Productivity
If percussive massage device is applied to body, then massage therapy is provided, but vibration can cause damage to internal components over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs vibration isolation mounting that cushions and dampens the intense vibrations generated during percussive massage before they reach the internal electronic components. This prior cushioning protects sensitive circuitry, batteries, and motors from vibration-induced damage, ensuring long-term reliability while maintaining effective massage delivery to the user.
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
Provides customizable pressure settings, improved user interaction, enhanced durability, and reduced vibration exposure, ensuring consistent massage quality and extended device lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor configured to capture a rotation of a swivel dial indicating a desired vibration level
Implementation Method 2
an accelerometer module configured to provide an indication of motion of the massage applicator to the controller
Implementation Method 3
control a motor of the massage applicator to provide a plurality of vibration levels
Data Source
AI summary
A printed circuit board (PCB) configured to be included in a massage applicator. The PCB including a clock module configured to provide at least one clock signal, a controller configured to receive the at least one clock signal from the clock module and control a motor of the massage applicator to provide a plurality of vibration levels, and an optical sensor configured to capture a rotation of a swivel dial indicating a desired vibration level of the plurality of vibration levels.