Percussive Massage Device Pressure Indicator via Motor Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing percussive massage devices do not provide a way to determine the pressure applied to the body, relying on the skill and memory of the massage therapist, which can lead to inconsistent treatments.
Innovation Solution
A method of displaying at least one pressure indicator in a percussive massage device by determining the no-load current and subtracting it from the measured current to determine the current magnitude, which is then used to indicate the applied pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure indication system is added to percussive massage device, then measurement precision of applied pressure is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical pressure sensing mechanisms with an electrical current measurement system. The motor controller measures the electrical current drawn by the motor during operation, which correlates with the pressure applied to the body. This substitution of mechanical sensing with electrical measurement achieves accurate pressure indication while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses electrical current as an intermediary parameter to indicate pressure. Instead of directly measuring mechanical pressure, the system measures the electrical current that is affected by the mechanical load (pressure applied). The motor controller acts as an intermediary component that converts current measurements into pressure indicators displayed to the user, providing an indirect but effective measurement approach.
2Measurement precision
If conventional pressure measurement mechanisms are used, then measurement capability is improved, but device weight and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the motor controller multi-functional by having it perform both its primary function of controlling motor operation and its secondary function of measuring electrical current to indicate pressure. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated pressure sensing components, thereby avoiding additional weight and maintaining device portability while still providing pressure measurement capability.
3Loss of information
If pressure indication system is implemented, then loss of information about applied pressure is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the motor controller continuously monitors electrical current and provides real-time pressure information feedback to the user through a display interface. This feedback loop allows users to see the pressure being applied during treatment, enabling them to maintain consistent pressure levels across multiple treatments without requiring complex additional sensing hardware.
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
This method allows for the accurate and consistent display of pressure applied during percussive massage, enabling users to reproduce the correct pressure settings in subsequent treatments.
Implementation Method 1
A portable electromechanical percussive massage applicator includes a motor controller responsive to a signal from a pressure sensor to maintain the rotational speed of the motor within a selected range. The motor controller also measures the electrical current drawn by the motor.
Data Source
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AI summary
A percussive massage device includes an enclosure having a cylindrical bore that extends along a longitudinal axis. A motor has a rotatable shaft that rotates about a central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A crank coupled to the shaft includes a pivot, which is offset from the central axis of the shaft. A reciprocation linkage has a first end coupled to the pivot of the crank. A piston has a first end coupled to a second end of the reciprocation linkage. The piston is constrained to move within a cylinder along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical bore. An applicator head has a first end coupled to a second end of the piston and has a second end exposed outside the cylindrical bore for application to a person receiving treatment. A motor controller measures current applied to the motor and displays a pressure indicator responsive to the measured current.