ES2608252A1 - Small size portable vibrating device optimizing muscle training - Google Patents

Abstract

A subject of the present invention is a portable vibrating device of a small size that transmits a vibration with a determined frequency and amplitude to the region of the patient to be exercised, increasing its effect on the receptors and the muscles involved and, therefore, the effectiveness of training. The invention fits into both the fitness and rehabilitation sectors, whether traumatic or neurological, achieving muscle optimization.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Portable vibrating device of small size optimizing muscle training.

Object of the invention 5

The present invention aims at a portable vibrating device that transmits a vibration with a certain frequency and amplitude to the region of the patient to exercise, increasing its effect on the receptors and the muscles involved and, therefore, the effectiveness of training, as well as of muscle recovery. 10

The invention fits both in the fitness sector and in the rehabilitation sector, whether traumatological or neurological, achieving muscle optimization.

State of the art 15

Physical training begins at the time of Ancient Greece, with the emergence of the first gyms and the birth of body worship. This training concept has evolved over time to become a fundamental element in culture and lifestyle, especially in developed countries. 20 But have the means we used for such training really evolved? We currently have different nutritional supplements, as well as really innovative machinery created specifically to activate certain muscle groups. However, are these machines not based on what the ancient Greeks already used, weightlifting, force against gravity, pulleys? Therefore, we must ask ourselves, what are the technical aids that we have in the market to improve the effectiveness of such training? The answer is that such aids are scarce and most of them consist of full body vibration platforms. These devices are expensive and large, making them not very accessible to the majority of the population. That is why the need arises to create certain devices capable of transmitting this vibration -which is already used effectively with the platforms- and build them in a way that is low cost and size, making them accessible and easy to use.

After conducting a study of the existing evidence, the physiological and functional effects obtained with the vibration that the device would generate are well defined, with a well-referenced literature that would allow a clear and rigorous foundation. Therefore, we conclude that there is no vibratory training device with such characteristics, highlighting its affordability and simplicity (low cost, simple design and small size) as a means for easy commercialization. 40

The proposed device is based on bibliographic references on vibratory devices that lack specificity of vibration and information about the supports.

A review of the documents cited below and that could affect the novelty of said invention has been carried out, and no coincidences that may affect it have been detected.

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References

- WO2011045787. PORTABLE DEVICE FOR TRAINING, EXERCISING AND PAIN RELIEF UTILIZING ROTATABLE ECCENTRIC MASSES.

 5

This invention consists of an eccentric mass vibrating device (Fig. 1A) with different types of applications depending on the support. In this way, there is an application that produces vibration in a fixed bar similar to a dumbbell (Fig. 2), as well as others that cause, through the vibration of the support (Fig. 5A, 5B, 5C), an effect on the groups muscle that runs this. 10

Next, we highlight the differences with the application described in Figure 5A, 5B and 5C, with which it conflicts. In the first place, the lack of specificity of the vibration of the aforementioned device on the muscle groups due to the vibration of the support used in said applications. In this way, this support is placed directly on the skin and generates vibration on the tissues that are immediately below along the entire path of the support, influencing agonist, antagonistic and synergistic muscles, as well as others that would not intervene in the movement . In this way, the vibration is not specifically applied to the target muscle groups. This differs with the specificity of our device, which is placed locally on the muscle groups to be exercised, since the only thing that vibrates is the device (the support is not intended to vibrate). Secondly, it is never described in this patent that the vibration of the device is carried out while the individual performs the exercise, it is only established that the vibration exercises the muscle groups. On the other hand, our device is specifically applied during the time of exercise, seeking to increase muscle effectiveness during this. Thirdly, the description of the effects is scarce and inconsistent, suggesting only muscular exercise and lower back pain, unlike the increase in muscle effectiveness during the training we propose with our invention. Fourth, vibration frequency parameters are not established and physiological effects obtained are not described in detail. Finally, there are differences in the form of vibration generation.

- US2003083599. ACOUSTIC BAND VIBRATION MASSAGE FOR MUSCLE 35 RELAXATION: METHOD AND DEVICE

This patent consists of a vibrating device which, through its support, achieves that the generated vibration is transmitted to the region on which it is located, thereby obtaining the stimulation of the fast adaptation mechanoreceptors present in tendons, muscles and joints In this way, afferent stimulation is sent to the central nervous system, thereby causing the reduction of muscle and vascular tone and increasing micro-circulation, which translates into a relaxation of the muscles. This is achieved by using a vibration frequency of 250 Hz to 350 Hz. 45

There are multiple differences with our device. In the first place and as the memory of the cited patent says, "this invention provides an effective massage tool". The objective of the inventor is the reduction of muscle tone (relaxation of the muscles), and the relief of pain: and not the increase in the effectiveness of the exercise - as is our case. Second, the frequency

used is higher than we propose, since both devices have different objectives. Finally, the place of application established in the cited patent is on the painful area, unlike our device, which proposes the placement on the muscle to be exercised

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- JP2008000100146. LOWER ABDOMINAL REGION STRENGTHENING SYSTEM BAND

It consists of a band that is placed on the underwear and when activated it emits a vibrating signal with the aim of not forgetting to attend the abdominal area, to avoid its hypoactivation. The biggest difference with the device to be patented is that it only has one application, which is the abdominal region; in addition to the fact that his goal is simply to remind the person of the work he must do on that region.

- US4846157. DEVICE FOR AIDING ABDOMINAL MUSCLE CONTROL 15

This patent deals with a device similar to the previous one, where a band placed around the waist is able to capture changes in its own length. Thus, when this length increases (the band is stretched), a vibration is generated. The objective of the device is to cause a vibratory stimulus once the activation of the abdominal area by the subject decreases, reminding them to re-activate the abdominal musculature.

- US4343303. STIMULATING APPARATUS

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It consists of a vibrating device that adapts to the cervical or lumbar regions, with the aim of stimulating muscular activity in these areas. The main objective is to provide freedom of movement in these areas, nothing similar to what we intend with the invention object of the patent. In addition, its use is limited only to these two regions of the spine. 30

- WO2006134999. VIBRA TION STIMULATION THERAPY APPARATUS, ITS USE METHOD, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM

This therapeutic apparatus consists of vibration generators to stimulate certain regions of the upper limb, with the aim of inducing voluntary movement. The apparatus also comprises a personal computer and switches for the rehabilitation of stimulus detection. In addition, it presents a measure of the electromyographic activity of the musculature. The vibratory stimulators are applied to the patient's skin and generate vibration based on the computer's computer program, instructing the patient to perform flexion and extension repetitions following the vibratory stimulus. Through this vibrational stimulation, an action is assumed on the deep sensation of the muscles involved in the movement, favoring the recovery of muscle function. This apparatus differs from the device object of the present invention in that it involves an expensive and complex set of machinery, which aims to analyze other variables, being much more complex and expensive. In addition, it is limited to the upper limb and for laboratory use.

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- US20130116606. METHOD AND DEVICE FOR REDUCING SYMPTOMATIC RELAPSE OF SPASTICITY

Portable vibratory device whose objective is to achieve a vibration that generates a proprioceptive stimulus in certain muscles in order that the sensory stimulation of certain cortical areas generates a reduction in spasticity of the spastic muscle. Its function is to be activated during the activities of the patient's daily life and reduce the symptoms of spasticity. Specific for patients with neurological involvement and spasticity, whose objective is not muscle training but the reduction of spasticity. 10

- EP 2444127. BARBELL OR DUMBBELL WITH VIBRATION DEVICE

- US8241189. DUMBBELL

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- US5868653. VIBRA TING BARBELL

- WO0110506. ELECTRONIC DUMBBELL

- US850938. EXERCISING APPARATUS 20

- JP2012239623. MUSCLE STRENGHT TRAINING TOOL

The last six patents consist of different weight designs, whose vibration generates an oscillation / vibration that is transmitted through the grip to the upper extremities of the individual performing the exercise. In this way, the vibration is transmitted to the muscles exercised, resulting in their vibration and an effect of instability on the exercise, which favors the recruitment of motor units.

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These inventions are completely different from what we propose, both in the way in which this vibration is transmitted to the individual (through the grip), and in the form of weight, among other differences.

- WO2010123374. DEVICE FOR A MUSCLE TRAINING APPARATUS 35

This device generates a vibration that is transmitted to the training bar on which it is placed, so that when the individual performs the exercise with said bar the vibration is transmitted to the involved musculature. The effect that is sought to be achieved is the same as that set forth in the last six inventions, therefore the difference with our invention is similar.

- DE102005062432. MUSCLE STIMULATION APPARATUS

In this case, the device has similar functionality to the previous ones. Only 45 that instead of being a weight, the device consists of a grip for different machines very popular in fitness centers, such as pulleys. In this way, when performing the exercise on one of these machines, the grip generates a vibration that is transmitted to the muscles involved in the exercise. The effect that is sought to be achieved is the same as that described in the last seven inventions, 50 therefore the difference with our invention is similar.

- US7593775. SPORTS EQUIPMENT WITH RESONANT MUSCLE STIMULATOR FOR DEVELOPING MUSCLE STRENGTH

This patent consists of a device that transfers vibration to different sports instruments, such as the tennis racket or hockey stick. The vibration produced is transmitted through the grip on the athlete's hand. It is suggested that such vibration achieves beneficial effects in muscle training. It differs from our device by - among other things - the form of application of the vibration, since the one caused by said device is transferred to the hand of the individual while performing the sports activity and, hence, to the rest of the top 10 member.

- US2007259759. VIBRATIONARY EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

WO200410344. RETROFIT KIT FOR A TRAINING DEVICE AND TRAINING 15 DEVICE

The two previous patents consist of conventional training machines, with the novel characteristic of the generation of an oscillation / vibration that affects the exercise carried out by the individual, causing a vibration in the musculature involved in the exercise. It is suggested that such vibration increases the effectiveness of training. The differences with our device are notable in the fact of the great machinery used, the way of applying the vibration. among other.

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Description of the invention

Analyzing the existing vibratory devices, a vibratory device of small dimensions is developed, which can be coupled to the body through an elastic band of easy adaptation, transmitting the vibration produced to the skin and to the tendon-muscle-ligamentous structures that are found below, with the aim of achieving an increase in muscle effectiveness during training.

For this, the proposed device is composed of:

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a) An irregular mass disk (4) capable of generating with its rotation a vibration of the entire device (11), as well as the tissue on which it is placed.

b) A motor (2) that through a cylindrical shaft (3) is in communication with the disk (4) and generates its rotation (4). 40

c) An inclined platform (5) for the disk that ensures that the vibration is distributed in the horizontal and vertical axes.

d) A rechargeable battery (6) that operates the device. Four. Five

e) An electronic board or printed circuit board (7) that communicates the battery (6), the motor (2) and the interface (9).

f) An interface (9) that allows to regulate the frequency of the vibration through the electronic board 50 (7).

g) An elastic band (12) coupled to the device by two projections (10) of the lower housing (1) that allow the adjustment of the device to most muscle groups. It is adjustable thanks to two adapters (13) present in the band, and adapts to most body surfaces, allowing the contact of the device to be complete and uniform, so that the vibration is transmitted effectively. 5

h) An upper housing (8) and a lower housing (1), the latter with a concave flange that facilitates its adjustment on the skin.

The vibration is generated by the motor (2), whose rotation is transmitted to a disk (4). through 10 of a cylindrical shaft (3) to which it is coupled. The disc (4) generates a vibration of the entire device (11) because it has a space without mass (14). The motor (2) is supported on an inclined platform (5). Motor rotations are generated by a rechargeable battery (6), and are regulated by an electronic board or printed circuit board (7), depending on the order of the interface (9). Through the interface 15 (9) the system is configured so that the vibration has suitable parameters, demonstrated as effective in different research studies. These parameters are: a frequency of 30 Hz to 65 HZ (with the ability to modulate) and an amplitude of 1 mm to 2 mm. On both sides of the lower housing of the device there are two projections (10) intended for coupling the elastic band, which allows adaptation to the body region of the person. The adapter is an elastic band with a system of modification and adjustment of measure, so that it is able to position itself in the vast majority of muscles to work. It is important to highlight in the device its simplicity, its low weight and size, and its low production cost.

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Description of the content of the figures

Figure 1A.- Represents the device with the upper case (8) checking everything that is attached to the lower case (1).

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(1) Lower housing

(2) Motor

(3) Cylindrical shaft 35

(4) Irregular mass disk

(5) Inclined platform

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(6) Rechargeable battery

(7) Electronic board

(10) Projection for band coupling. Four. Five

Figure 1B.- Represents the device with the upper case (8), as it would be for the consumer, except for the elastic band. In this case there is an interface (9) formed by a series of buttons and a possible screen. The function of this interface is the switching on and off of the device and the control of the frequency of the vibration.

Figure 2.- Represents separately and in an exploded view all the components of the described device, with the exception of the elastic band.

Figure 3.- Represents the motor of the device (2), together with a cylindrical shaft (3) that transmits the rotation to the disk (4). This vibrating mechanism is inclined thanks to an inclined platform (5), which allows the generated vibration to be transmitted to different axes of space (F, Fx and Fy).

Figure 4.- Representation of the device with both housings, upper (8) and lower (1), the curve that exists in the lower housing being remarkable, and which suggests a better adaptation to the cutaneous surface, with the aim of better motion transmission

Figure 5.- Representation of the device in its entirety (11) together with the elastic band (12) that serves as support, and both adapters (13) that allow defining the length of the latter to achieve adaptation to the body part that suits.

Figure 6.- Representation of the device in its entirety (11) in one of its applications, specifically applied to the biceps brachial muscle during training.

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Embodiment of the invention

The present invention is further illustrated by the following example based on the numbering provided. This example is not intended to limit its scope:

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As can be seen in the figures, the device (11) in question is formed by a lower housing (1) and an upper housing (8) made of flexible and resistant material such as some types of plastic. On the lower housing (1) most of the vibration generating elements are adapted, among which we find a small motor (2), whose rotation is transmitted through a cylindrical shaft (3) to a 30 disc (4) of irregular mass of variable configuration of some metal or other heavy material. Said disk (4) obtains the characteristic of having an irregular mass thanks to a space without mass (14) - without mass, also of variable configuration - in one of its regions. Motor rotations (2) are generated by a common rechargeable battery (6), such as lithium-ion. Said rotations are regulated by a common electronic board or printed circuit board (7), depending on the order of an interface (9) formed by 4 buttons: one on, one off and two referring to the two types of possible vibration frequencies. The frequency and amplitude of the vibration -which are established respectively between 30 and 65 Hz and between 1 or 2 millimeters according to the existing evidence- will be subject to the configuration of the disk (4) and to the 40 dimensions of the space without mass (14) , as well as the speed of rotation of said disk (4), which will vary depending on the revolutions per minute provided by the motor (2).

The motor (2) is adapted to the interior of the lower housing (1) through an inclined platform (5) of resistant material such as plastic, so that the vibration is transmitted in the horizontal and vertical axes.

On both sides of the lower housing of the device there are two protrusions (10) of small size and of the same material as both housings. These outgoing are 50

intended for coupling the elastic band (12) that allows adaptation to the body region of the person.

This band is made of a material with elongation and stretching capacity to improve adaptation to body surfaces. Likewise, said material must be comfortable for the subject. preventing the emergence of possible skin erosions. Therefore, the band will be made of neoprene or a material with similar characteristics. The band consists of a measurement adaptation system, in this case two small adapters (13) that allow to modify and adjust the length of the band to achieve the correct positioning of the device on the great majority of muscles to work. It is important to highlight in the 10 device its simplicity, its low weight and size (approximately 5 centimeters long and 3 centimeters wide), and its low production cost due to the simplicity of its materials.

Claims (3)

1. Small portable vibrating device, muscle training optimizer characterized in that it is composed of:  5 a) An irregular mass disk (4) capable of generating with its rotation a vibration of the entire device (11), as well as the tissue on which it is placed. b) A motor (2) that through a cylindrical shaft (3) is in communication with the disk (4) and generates its rotation (4). 10 c) An inclined platform (5) for the disk (4) that ensures that the vibration is distributed in the horizontal and vertical axes. d) A rechargeable battery (6) that operates the device. fifteen e) An electronic board or printed circuit board (7) that communicates the battery (6), the motor (2) and the interface (9). f) An interface (9) that allows to regulate the frequency of the vibration through the electronic board 20 (7). g) An elastic band (12) with a system of modification and measurement adjustment, so that it is able to position itself in the vast majority of muscles to work allowing the contact of the device to be complete and uniform, so that the vibration It is transmitted effectively. h) A lower housing (1) and an upper housing (8) with a concave flange that facilitates its adjustment on the skin.  30 2. Portable vibrating device optimizing muscle training according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the motor generates a movement in the disc producing a vibration of the entire device at a frequency ranging from 30 to 65 Hz and with an amplitude ranging from 1 to 2 mm .  35 3. Portable vibrating device optimizing muscle training according to previous claims characterized in that the elastic band is adjustable and allows the contact of the device with the body surface to be complete and highly effective. The adapter is an elastic band with a system of modification and measurement adjustment, 40 so that it is able to position itself in the vast majority of muscles to work.