DE102018003641A1 - Portable device for tremor reduction - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (10) for tremor reduction, comprising:
at least one vibration damping device (18), which is designed to generate at least one vibration with at least one vibration amplitude, with which the amplitude of tremor trembling can be reduced, and
at least one fastening device (12) which accommodates the at least one vibration damping device (18) at least in sections, the at least one fastening device (12) being designed for attachment to a body part, wherein the at least one fastening device (12) comprises the at least one vibration damping device (18). vibrationally transmits to the body part (H).

Description

The present invention relates to a wearable tremor reduction device. With the device according to the invention the tremor tremor of a tremor patient can be reduced. The device can be attached to a body part of the tremor patient, which is why the device according to the invention is referred to as a "portable" device. In other words, the device can be put on and taken off. In general, the device according to the invention could also be referred to as a "medical accessory".

Devices for tremor reduction are known from the prior art and for example in the document WO 01/80710 A2 disclosed. The tremor reduction device disclosed in this document includes spring means surrounding the patient's arm or wrist. A mass extends around the outside of the spring device. About the spring device and the mass tremor trembling is to be reduced.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a tremor reduction device which provides increased wearer comfort for the tremor patient and which is tunable to the tremor tremor vibrational shape of the tremor patient.

This object is achieved with a portable device for tremor reduction with the features of claim 1.

Further embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

The wearable tremor reduction device according to the invention comprises at least one vibration damping device which is designed to generate at least one vibration with at least one vibration amplitude with which the amplitude of tremor trembling can be reduced, and at least one fastening device which at least partially accommodates the at least one vibration damping device the at least one fastening device is designed to be fastened to a body part, wherein the at least one fastening device holds the at least one vibration damping device in a vibration-transmitting manner on the body part.

The at least one vibration damping device is adjusted and tuned with its natural frequency and its oscillation amplitude to the frequency and the amplitude of tremor trembling of the tremor patient. This results in a tilier effect that reduces tremor tremors. The at least one vibration damping device can be attached via the at least one fastening device at a predetermined position on the part of the body underlying the tremor tremors. With the at least one vibration damping device of the tremor reduction device according to the invention, one or more different vibration modes of the body part can be used.

The at least one vibration damping device can have at least one absorber mass and at least one spring element. The at least one spring element can be connected to the at least one absorber mass. The at least one spring element may be made of an elastic material. The elastic material may be, for example, an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, a silicone or rubber. The elastic material of the at least one spring element can surround the at least one absorber mass at least in sections. The at least one spring element may be a helical spring. Preferably, the coil spring may be conical. Furthermore, the at least one spring element may be a leaf spring. The leaf spring may be arcuate. The leaf spring may be designed such that it acts as a bending beam. The leaf spring may extend in a predetermined direction and thus determine the direction of the vibration performed by the absorber mass. For example, the leaf spring may extend along a central or longitudinal axis of the fastening device. In this case, the absorber mass can oscillate transversely to the central or longitudinal axis of the fastening device. Furthermore, the leaf spring may also extend transversely to a central or longitudinal axis of the fastening device. In this case, the absorber mass can oscillate in the direction of the central or longitudinal axis. Different vibration modes of the tremor trembling with the vibration damping device can therefore be used.

The at least one spring element can couple the at least one absorber mass with the at least one fastening device. The at least one spring element can be connected to the at least one fastening device. The at least one spring element can carry the at least one absorber mass and be supported on the at least one fastening device. The at least one spring element may extend between an outer circumferential surface of the absorber mass and the fastening device. There may be provided a plurality of spring elements. The spring elements may extend from the absorber mass in the direction of the fastening device.

The at least one fastening device can have at least one receiving section. In the receiving section, the at least one Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung be added at least partially. The at least one receiving portion may be formed such that the at least one receiving portion forms an encapsulation for the at least one vibration damping device. The at least one receiving portion may be formed in the form of a housing. The at least one receiving portion can define at least one receiving opening into which the at least one vibration damping device can be inserted. The at least one receiving portion may have at least one wall and a bottom defining the receiving opening. The receiving portion may further comprise at least one sleeve. The sleeve may define a receiving opening. The at least one receiving portion can be closed by at least one closure element such as a lid or the like. Furthermore, the at least one receiving section can be closed over at least one section of the fastening device. It is conceivable here, for example, that a portion of the fastening device closes the receiving opening of the receiving area. With the encapsulation achieved by the closure of the receiving opening, the at least one vibration damping device in the receiving opening can be protected from dirt, moisture, mechanical impulses, impacts, shocks and also from perspiration of the tremor patient.

The at least one receiving portion may be connected via the at least one spring element with the at least one absorber mass. The at least one spring element can, for example, be supported on the bottom of the receiving section and carry the at least one absorber mass. The at least one spring element may extend between an inner circumferential surface of the receiving portion and an outer peripheral surface of the absorber mass.

The at least one fastening device may have at least one fastening section. The at least one attachment portion may be configured to hold the at least one vibration damping device in vibration-transmitting contact with the body part. In particular, the at least one fastening device can hold the at least one vibration damping device in its predetermined position. The fastening device can thus prevent the at least one vibration damping device from being lifted off the body part of the tremor patient. Furthermore, the fastening device can also prevent the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung can slip. The at least one fastening section may be designed to be elastic at least in sections in order to hold the at least one vibration damping device in vibration-transmitting contact with the body part. The attachment portion may be at least partially formed in the form of a membrane. The attachment portion may be at least partially made of latex, latex filaments or elastic materials having similar properties.

The at least one attachment portion may include at least one resilient support member for maintaining the at least one vibration cancellation device in vibration-transmitting contact with the body part. The at least one elastic retaining element may be formed integrally with the at least one fastening device. The at least one elastic retaining element can be designed in the form of a spring arm. The at least one elastic retaining element may be in the form of an open or a closed leaf spring. The at least one elastic retaining element can contact the corresponding body part in the state of the device attached to a body part of a tremor patient in order to maintain the vibration-transmitting contact between the device and the body part. The at least one spring arm thus provides a biasing force that biases the at least one fastening device into the vibration-transmitting contact with the body part. The at least one elastic retaining element can prevent slippage or lifting of the at least one vibration damping device and thus ensure the transmission of the vibrations generated by the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung on the body part. The elastic retaining element may for example consist of metal, foam, elastomer, silicone, a combination thereof, or of a composite material such as a velvet-coated steel spring.

The at least one vibration damping device can also have at least one electrical resonant circuit, which is realized for example via a capacitor coil circuit which provides the natural frequency for the cancellation of the tremor oscillation. An electrical resonant circuit requires almost no additional energy to produce a vibration with a natural frequency suitable for eradicating the tremor vibration of the tremor patient. The vibration can be generated essentially via the resonance of the electrical resonant circuit. It is possible by an energetically optimal vibration reduction on the body part of Tremorpatienten. The electrical resonant circuit may have at least one actuator. The actuator can be designed to amplify the vibrations generated by the electrical oscillating circuit with a vibration amplitude for reducing the amplitude of tremor trembling to the respective body part of the tremor patient transfer. The actuator may for example comprise at least one vibration motor. Similar vibration motors are used, for example, in mobile phones for generating vibrations. Furthermore, the actuator may have at least one piezoelectric element. To stabilize the electromechanical oscillation system, impedance converters may be connected at the interfaces, for example via operational amplifiers.

The device may comprise at least one sensor or detector. The at least one sensor or detector can detect the tremor frequency and / or the oscillation amplitude of the respective body part of the tremor patient. As a sensor, for example, a motion sensor can be used. Furthermore, it is likewise conceivable to determine the extent of tremor trembling via a piezo element. It is also possible to use the same element as a sensor or detector and as an actuator. In other words, the sensor or detector can simultaneously act as an actuator for transmitting the vibrations generated by the electrical resonant circuit to the respective body part of the tremor patient. For example, a piezoelectric element can serve as a sensor or detector of the tremor oscillation of the tremor patient and at the same time as an actuator for generating the oscillation for the eradication of the tremor oscillation.

The device may include a plurality of vibration damping devices. The Schwingungstilgungseinrichtungen may be arranged offset from one another on the at least one fastening device. The vibration damping devices may be attached to the attachment device such that various vibration modes of the respective body part (e.g., the hand) of the tremor patient may be accommodated. If you stick to the example of the hand, it is conceivable to attach a Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung to a finger base joint. It is also conceivable to assign a plurality, each finger or each finger base joint a Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung. In addition, further Schwingungstilgungseinrichtungen can be arranged in the metacarpals, the carpal and / or the wrist.

In order to securely hold the at least one fastening device to the respective body part and to be able to ensure the transmission of vibrations generated by the at least one vibration damping to the respective body part, the at least one fastening device can have at least one adjusting device with which the fastening device can be adapted to the respective body part , In particular, with the at least one adjusting device, the at least one fastening device can be adapted to the diameter of the respective body part. In order to adapt the fastening device to the diameter of the respective body part, various adjusting devices known from the fashion industry or jewelery industry can be used to adapt fashion accessories or jewelery to the respective body part. For example, as adjusting devices Velcro or known from belts or watch straps solutions are conceivable with which the fastening device can be adapted to the diameter of the respective body part. It is also conceivable that the fastening device has a predetermined elasticity, which allows an adaptation of the fastening device to the diameter of the respective body part. Conceivable here are, for example, solutions with rubber bands or similar facilities.

The at least one fastening device can be formed in one or more parts. The individual parts of the fastening device can for example be screwed against each other, sewn together or interwoven. With a screwing of the individual parts of the fastening device, an adaptation of the fastening device to the diameter of the respective body part can be achieved in this way.

The fastening device can be designed in the form of a one-part or multi-part finger ring. The attachment portion of the attachment means may be annular for attachment to a finger. The annular attachment portion may be formed with an adjustment device to adjust the inner diameter of the attachment portion to the diameter of a finger can. The attachment portion may be formed in several parts. The items can be bolted together. In this way, the diameter of the attachment portion can be adapted to the diameter of the respective finger of the tremor patient. The adjustment device may for example comprise a hinge and at least one screw, via which the diameter of the attachment portion is adaptable to the diameter of the finger. After a one-time adjustment to the diameter of the finger, the solution can be maintained in this solution, so that the finger ring after the adjustment only needs to be attached to the finger, without further adaptation is necessary. Similar solutions are known, for example, in the field of bicycle lights fixtures. For bicycle lamp mounts, the bicycle lamp mounts can be adjusted to the diameter of each handlebar by means of a hinge and one or more screws.

The at least one elastic retaining element may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the fastening portion. The at least one elastic retaining element can be arranged radially within the receiving portion. If the at least one fastening device is designed in the form of a finger ring, the at least one elastic retaining element can be arranged between the inner circumferential surface of the annular fastening section and the finger. Thereby, lifting of the inner peripheral surface of the annular fixing portion from the finger surface, slipping or spinning during the vibration damping can be prevented. For example, the inner peripheral surface of the annular attachment portion may be lined with a material or cloth that can hold the attachment device in its predetermined position on the finger.

The fastening device may be band-shaped or annular or in the form of a glove or in the form of a hat or in the form of a cap or in the form of a sweatband, or in the form of a sock.

The fastening device may have at least one inner element or at least one contact element. The at least one inner element or the at least one contact element can be designed for contact with the skin of the tremor patient. Furthermore, the at least one inner element and the at least one contact element can serve as a support for the at least one vibration damping device. The inner element or the contact element can serve as a support surface for the at least one vibration damping device. On the inner element or the contact element, the at least one vibration damping device can be supported. The inner member and the abutment member may be made of a material which is directly suitable for contact with the skin of a tremor patient.

The at least one elastic retaining element can couple the at least one spring element with the at least one fastening device in a force-transmitting manner. In particular, the at least one elastic retaining element can couple the at least one spring element in a traction-transmitting manner with the fastening device. The at least one elastic retaining element can ensure that the vibration generated by the at least one vibration damping device can be transmitted to the fastening device and thereby also to the respective body part of the tremor patient. The at least one elastic retaining element can span the at least one spring element. Preferably, the elastic retaining element can span the spring element in a region such that the elastic retaining element is subjected to tension. The at least one elastic retaining element can be firmly connected to the fastening device. Furthermore, the at least one elastic retaining element can be formed integrally with the fastening device.

The present invention further relates to an arrangement for tremor reduction, wherein the arrangement for tremor reduction comprises a plurality of tremor reduction devices of the type described above. Multiple tremor reduction devices can be attached to specific body parts to form a tremor reduction arrangement. In this way, the individual devices can be tuned to the vibration shape or the vibration modes of the tremor of the respective Tremorpatienten. For example, if the tremor reduction device is in the form of a finger ring, tremor reduction devices may be attached to a plurality of fingers of the tremor patient, forming a tremor reduction arrangement.

• 1 bis 4 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform;
• 5 bis 8 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform;
• 9 bis 12 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer dritten Ausführungsform;
• 13 und 14 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer vierten Ausführungsform;
• 13, 15 und 16 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer fünften Ausführungsform;
• 17 bis 20 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer sechsten Ausführungsform;
• 21 und 22 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer siebten Ausführungsform;
• 23 bis 26 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer achten Ausführungsform;
• 27 bis 30 Ansichten einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer neunten Ausführungsform;
• 30 eine schematische Ansicht einer tragbaren Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß einer zehnten Ausführungsform; und
• 31 eine schematische Ansicht eines elektrischen Schwingkreises der Vorrichtung zur Tremorreduzierung gemäß 31.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show:

• 1 to 4 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a first embodiment;
• 5 to 8th Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a second embodiment;
• 9 to 12 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a third embodiment;
• 13 and 14 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a fourth embodiment;
• 13 . 15 and 16 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a fifth embodiment;
• 17 to 20 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a sixth embodiment;
• 21 and 22 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a seventh embodiment;
• 23 to 26 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to an eighth embodiment;
• 27 to 30 Views of a wearable tremor reduction device according to a ninth embodiment;
• 30 a schematic view of a portable device for tremor reduction according to a tenth embodiment; and
• 31 a schematic view of an electrical resonant circuit of the device for tremor reduction according to 31 ,

1 shows a perspective view of a device 10 for tremor reduction according to a first embodiment. The device 10 has a fastening device 12 on, for fixing the device 10 on a body part of a tremor patient. The fastening device 12 is formed according to this embodiment in the form of a finger ring.

According to this embodiment, the fastening device 12 designed for attachment to a finger of a hand. The fastening device 12 has a mounting portion 14 and a receiving section 16 on. In the recording section 16 can the in 1 not shown Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 (please refer 3 and 4 ). This is the recording section 16 formed in the form of a housing into which the vibration damping device 18 (please refer 3 and 4 ) can be used. The recording section 16 can through a closure element 20 be closed. This allows the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 in the receiving section 16 Protected from external influences such as moisture, dirt or perspiration of the tremor patient. The attachment section 14 is annular and can be plugged onto a finger of a hand of Tremorpatienten. The attachment section 14 may be formed so that it is adapted to the diameter of the finger provided for attachment to the device 10 safe to hold the finger. For example, the fastening device 12 a setting device, not shown, via which the diameter of the fastening portion or the opening O of the attachment section 14 for adaptation of the fastening device 12 can be adjusted to the diameter of the finger of Tremorpatienten.

2 shows a front view of the device 10 , The device 10 has the fastening device 12 on. The fastening device 12 has an annular attachment portion 14 and a receiving section 16 that passes over the lid-shaped closure element 20 is closed. The annular attachment portion 14 has an inner peripheral surface 22 , On the inner peripheral surface 22 is an elastic retaining element 24 arranged in the form of a spring arm. The elastic retaining element 24 is in the area of the recording section 16 on the inner circumferential surface 22 of the attachment section 14 intended. The elastic retaining element 24 serves to the device 10 to keep in vibration-transmitting contact with the finger of the tremor patient, so that the from the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 generated vibrations can be safely and reliably transmitted to the hand or the finger of Tremorpatienten.

3 shows a sectional view along the section line III-III in 2 , The fastening device 12 has a recording section 16 in which the vibration damping device 18 is included. The recording section 16 has a wall 26 and a floor 28 , The recording section 16 lays with the perimeter wall 26 and the floor 28 a receiving opening 30 firmly. The receiving opening 30 can over the closure element 20 be closed. In the receiving opening 30 can the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 be recorded.

The vibration damping device 18 has an absorber mass 32 and spring elements 34 on. The spring elements 34 connect the absorber mass 32 with a sleeve 36 , The absorber mass 32 is radially inside the tubular sleeve 36 arranged. The spring elements 34 are made of an elastic material. The elastic material of the spring elements 34 covers the inner peripheral surface of the sleeve 36 , The elastic material of the spring elements 34 surrounds the absorber mass 32 almost completely, being at the top and bottom of the absorber mass 32 , ie at the closure element 20 opposite surface and the ground 28 areas of the absorber mass, areas are visible which are free of the elastic material.

With its outer peripheral surface is the sleeve 36 on the inner peripheral surface of the peripheral wall 26 the receiving section 16 at. The vibration damping device 18 is over the closure element 20 in the receiving opening 30 the receiving section 16 held. The sleeve 36 rests with one of its end faces on the floor surface 18 the receiving opening 30 and with its other end face on the closure element 20 from. The sleeve 36 and the closure element 20 couple the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 with the fastening device 12 ,

The attachment section 14 the fastening device 12 is annular. On the inner peripheral surface 22 of the attachment section 14 is the elastic holding element 24 educated. The elastic retaining element 24 is designed as a spring arm. The spring arm 24 is integral with the fastening device 12 educated. The elastic retaining element 24 or the spring arm extends in sections parallel to the bottom surface 28 or to the central axis M of the annular fastening section 14 , There is thus a radial distance between the inner peripheral surface 22 and the spring arm 24 in front. The spring arm 24 holds the device 10 in vibration-transmitting contact with the finger of the tremor patient. The spring arm 24 ensures that the of the vibration damping device 18 generated vibrations, which are intended to reduce the amplitude of tremor trembling, can be transmitted to the hand of the tremor patient. For this reason, the spring arm or the elastic retaining element 24 on the inner circumferential surface 22 of the attachment section 14 in the area of the soil 28 arranged the receiving portion. In the state of the device attached to a finger of a tremor patient 10 contacted the spring arm 24 the finger of the tremor patient. The elastic retaining element 24 or the spring arm generates a bias that the device 10 keeps in vibration-transmitting contact with the finger of the tremor patient.

The absorber mass 32 has a predetermined distance to the ground surface 28 and to the closure element 20 , In particular, by the distances to the closure element 20 and the floor 28 will ensure that the absorber mass 32 has enough room to carry out a vibration amplitude with which the amplitude of tremor trembling can be reduced. The absorber mass 32 thus oscillates with respect to the central axis M of the attachment section 14 in the radial direction.

4 shows a sectional view along the section line IV-IV in 2 , The vibration damping device 18 is in the receiving opening 30 the receiving section 16 the fastening device 12 added. The vibration damping device 18 has the absorber mass 32 and six spring elements 34 on. The absorber mass 32 is circular in cross section. The spring elements 34 extend from the absorber mass 32 radially outward in the direction of the sleeve 36 to which they are also attached. The spring elements 34 extend between the outer peripheral surface of the absorber mass 32 and the inner peripheral surface of the sleeve 36 , The inner peripheral surface of the sleeve 36 is with the elastic material of the spring elements 36 overdrawn. The spring elements 34 may be made of an elastomer, a thermoplastic elastomer, silicone, rubber or similar material. The spring elements 34 are offset from each other by a predetermined angular amount on the outer peripheral surface of the absorber mass. The spring elements 34 for example, offset by 30 ° to each other about the central axis M the vibration damping device 18 be arranged. The sleeve 36 lies with its outer peripheral surface on the inner peripheral surface of the wall 26 the receiving section 16 at.

In 4 is the radial distance between the outer peripheral surface of the absorber mass 32 and the sleeve 36 shown. This radial distance is from the spring elements 34 bridged, which extend in the radial direction. The spring elements 34 prevent banging on the inner peripheral surface of the sleeve 36 , About the spring elements 34 can be the maximum amplitude of the absorber mass 32 be set. This can, for example, the maximum allowable elongation of the spring elements 34 respectively.

The 5 to 8th show views of a device 10 for tremor reduction according to a second embodiment. The fastening device 12 According to the second embodiment, substantially the same as with reference to 1 to 4 described first embodiment. 7 shows a sectional view along the section line VII-VII in 6 , 8th shows a sectional view along the section line VIII-VIII in 6 ,

The fastening device 12 has the attachment portion 14 and the receiving section 16 on. The recording section 16 has the wall 26 and the floor 28 , The wall 26 and the ground 28 lay a receiving opening 30 for the vibration damping device 18 firmly. The receiving opening 30 can over the closure element 20 be closed at the bottom 28 opposite end of the wall 26 is appropriate.

In the 7 and 8th is the vibration damping device 18 shown. The vibration damping device 18 has the absorber mass 32 and a spring element 38 on. The spring element 38 is formed in the form of a conical coil spring. The spring element 38 rests on the ground 28 the receiving opening 30 and carries the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 38 contacted the ground 28 opposite surface of the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 38 points to his on the ground 28 adjoining section of its largest diameter. The diameter of the spring element 38 reduces in the direction of the absorber mass 32 , wherein the spring element 38 with its smallest diameter section on the absorber mass 32 is applied. Also in the second embodiment is on the inner peripheral surface 22 of the attachment portion of the spring arm 24 formed the device 10 permanently in contact with the finger of the tremor patient.

The 9 to 12 show views of a device 10 for tremor reduction according to a third embodiment. The following with reference to the 9 to 12 described third embodiment corresponds largely to the above with reference to the 5 to 8th described second embodiment. The only major difference between the two Embodiments lies in the formation of the spring element of the vibration damping device 18 ,

11 shows a sectional view along the section line XI-XI in 10 , In 11 is the vibration damping device 18 shown in the receiving opening 30 the receiving section 16 the fastening device 12 is included. The vibration damping device 18 has the absorber mass 32 and a spring element 40 on. Unlike the spring element 38 According to the second embodiment, the spring element 40 not in the form of a coil spring, but in the form of a leaf spring. The spring element 40 extends arcuately between the ground 28 the receiving opening 30 and the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 40 carries the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 40 is between the floor area 28 the receiving opening 30 and the absorber mass 32 arranged. The spring element 40 rests on a parallel to the central axis M extending surface of the absorber mass 32 from. This area of the absorber mass 32 is the floor area 28 facing, ie this area lies on the ground 28 across from.

13 shows a schematic view of a device 10 according to a fourth embodiment and a schematic view of a device 10 ' according to a fifth embodiment, in the state attached to a hand of a tremor patient. The device 10 extends along the finger base joints of the index finger, the middle finger of the ring finger and the little finger. The device 10 has a fastening device 12 on, which is band-shaped and surrounds the hand above the thumb. This surrounds the fastening device 12 the forefinger, the middle finger, the ring finger and the little finger of the hand of the Tremorpatienten, whereby the thumb is released and thus is freely movable.

The device 10 has three vibration damping devices 18 on. The vibration damping devices 18 are in the fastening device 12 added. The three vibration damping devices 18 are formed in substantially identical. The three vibration damping devices 18 are arranged in the area of the finger base joints of the index finger, the middle finger and the ring finger.

The device 10 ' has a fastening device 12 on. The fastening device 12 is band-shaped and surrounds the hand of the Tremorpatienten. In particular, the fastening device surrounds 12 the hand in the area of the carpal bone. The device 10 ' has two vibration damping devices 18 ₁ and 18 ₂ on, which, as already in 13 recognize, are formed differently.

14 shows a sectional view along the section line XIV-XIV in 13, d , H. 14 makes a section through the device 10 in 13 The device 10 has the fastening device 12 on, which is band-shaped according to this embodiment. The fastening device 12 has a band-shaped attachment portion 14 , at the three receiving sections 16 are attached. The recording sections 16 are formed like a box. The recording sections 16 have a circumferential wall 26 and a floor 28 , The wall 26 and the ground 28 lay a receiving opening 30 solid, in which the vibration damping device 18 is included. The attachment section 14 closes the receiving opening 30 so that the vibration damping devices 18 protected from dirt and moisture. The attachment section 14 may be made of an elastic material such as latex or a material having properties similar to latex. The attachment section 14 serves to the vibration damping devices 18 at its predetermined position on the hand of the tremor patient. Due to their band-shaped design, the fastening device 12 simply be pushed onto the Tremorpatient's hand so that it essentially surrounds the area of the index finger, middle finger, ring finger and little finger. The device 10 takes up little space and can therefore be easily stowed in your pocket or a handbag. In addition, the device can 10 be quickly and easily "put on and taken off".

The vibration damping devices 18 each have a damping mass 32 and a spring 38 on. The feather 38 is a conically shaped coil spring. The feather 38 rests on the ground 28 and carries the absorber mass 32 , The recording sections 14 lie with their bottoms 28 on the hand H of the tremor patient. It is also conceivable that along the floors 28 the receiving sections 14 a membrane (not shown) which directly contacts the skin of the tremor patient. Such a membrane forms a carrier element for the vibration damping devices 18 ,

The band-shaped attachment portion 14 is formed such that it the receiving portions 16 with the vibration damping devices 18 vibrationally coupling with the hand H of the tremor patient. In other words, holds the attachment portion 14 the vibration damping devices 18 in contact with the hand H so that the of the vibration damping devices 18 generated frequency can counteract the tremor frequency of the patient.

15 shows a sectional view along the section line XV-XV in 13 , where the intersection XV-XV by the vibration damping device 18 ₁ the device 10 ' runs. The device 10 ' has a fastening device 12 on. The fastening device 12 has a fixing section 14 , which is formed band-shaped. The fastening device 12 also has a receiving section 16 ₁ in which the vibration damping device 18 ₁ is included. The recording section 16 ₁ has a floor 28 and a circumferential wall 26 which together have a receiving opening 30 establish. The vibration damping device 18 ₁ is in the receiving opening 30 added. The vibration damping device 18 ₁ has the absorber mass 32 and the spring 40 on. The feather 40 is formed in the form of a leaf spring. The leaf spring 40 extends between the ground 28 and the absorber mass 32 ie the spring 40 rests on the ground 28 and carries the absorber mass 32 ,

16 shows a sectional view along the section line XVI-XVI in 13 , where the cutting line XVI-XVI by the vibration damping device 18 ₂ the device 10 ' extends. The attachment section 14 the device 10 ' also has a receiving section 16 ₂ on. The attachment section 16 ₂ includes the sleeve 36 in which the vibration damping device 18 ₂ is included. The vibration damping device 18 ₂ has an absorber mass 32 and spring elements 34 on that the absorber mass 32 with the sleeve 36 connect. The spring elements 34 are made of an elastic material in which the absorber mass 32 is embedded. The elastic material of the spring elements 34 also extends along the inner peripheral surface of the sleeve 36 , The attachment section 14 Holds the sleeve 36 vibrationally transmitting to the hand H of the tremor patient. By differently constructed vibration damping devices 18 ₁ and 18 ₂ can the device 10 ' be tuned to different modes of vibration of the tremor of Tremorpatienten.

The device 10 ' may have a membrane (not shown) which abuts the hand of the tremor patient. This membrane can be part of the fastening device 12 be. This membrane can spread along the floors 28 the receiving section 16 ₁ and the sleeve 36 the receiving section 16 ₂ extend. The membrane may be at least partially parallel to the attachment portion 14 extend, wherein the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtungen 18 ₁ and 18 ₂ between the attachment portion 14 and the membrane are received. The membrane, not shown, a support element for the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtungen 18 ,

17 shows a schematic view of a device 10 for tremor reduction according to a fifth embodiment. The device 10 has a fastening device 12 on. The fastening device 12 is designed in the form of a glove. The device 10 has several vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ . 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ , The vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ are arranged in the area of the finger base joints of the index finger, the middle finger and the ring finger. The vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ are substantially identical in structure and arranged substantially along an imaginary line. In addition to the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ are the vibration damping devices 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ at the fastening device 12 arranged. The vibration damping devices 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ differ from the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ and also differ from each other. About the various vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ . 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ can the device 10 be tuned to different forms of vibration of tremor vibrations of Tremorpatienten.

18 shows a sectional view along the section line XVIII-XVIII in 17 , In 18 are the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ shown, each one absorber mass 32 and spring elements 34 exhibit. The absorber masses 32 are at the attachment section 14 the fastening device 12 appropriate. The fastening device 12 also has the sleeve 36 on, which has a receiving opening 30 Are defined. In the receiving opening 30 the sleeve 36 are the absorber mass 32 and the spring elements 34 added. The absorber mass 32 and the spring elements 34 are radially inside the sleeve 36 arranged. The sleeve 36 has a tubular section 42 and a radially outwardly extending abutment portion 44 on.

With the investment section 44 the sleeve is supported 36 on the hand H of the tremor patient. About the sleeve 36 or the sections 42 and 44 the sleeve 36 becomes a predetermined distance of the absorber mass to the hand H of the tremor patient. The sleeve 36 is not related to the attachment section 14 the fastening device 12 , The attachment section 14 is with the absorber masses 32 connected. The attachment section 14 keeps the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ in vibration-transmitting contact with the hand H. The attachment section 14 thus prevents the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtungen 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ be lifted off the hand, eliminating the vibrations from the vibration 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ vibrations are no longer obvious H could be transferred. The attachment section 14 can thus form an additional spring element. For this purpose, the attachment section 14 be formed of an elastic material. In this case, the acting as an additional spring element mounting portion 14 in the design of the spring elements 34 respectively. the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ considered. The attachment section 14 couples over the sleeve 36 the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ vibrationally transmitting with the hand H of the tremor patient.

19 shows a sectional view along the section line XIX-XIX in 17 , 19 shows a sectional view through the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₄ , The vibration damping device 18 ₄ has an absorber mass 32 and a spring element 40 on. The spring element 40 is formed in the form of a leaf spring. The absorber mass 32 is with the attachment section 14 the fastening device 12 connected. The feather 40 rests on a contact element 46 abutting the hand or the back of the hand of Tremorpatienten. The spring element 40 carries the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 40 is thus between the contact element 46 and the absorber mass 32 arranged.

20 shows a sectional view along the section line XX-XX in 17 , 20 thus shows a sectional view through the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₅ , The vibration damping device 18 ₅ has the absorber mass 32 and the spring elements 34 on. The spring elements 34 extend at rest of the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₅ parallel to the attachment section 14 , The attachment section 14 may be made of a membrane-like material. The spring elements 34 connect the absorber mass 32 with the sleeve 36 , The spring elements 34 extend between the outer circumferential surface of the absorber mass, 32 and the inner peripheral surface of the sleeve 36 , About the sleeve 36 the vibration damping device is supported 18 ₅ on the hand H of the tremor patient. About the sleeve 36 or the extent of which is a predetermined distance between the absorber mass 32 and the hand H or the back of the Tremorpatienten set.

The fastening device 12 may have an interior element or an interior glove (not shown). The inner element or inner glove extends between the vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ . 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ and the hand H of the tremor patient. The inner element or the inner glove may be between the hand and the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtungen 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ . 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ extend. The vibration damping devices 18 ₁ . 18 ₂ . 18 ₃ . 18 ₄ and 18 ₅ can thus between the attachment portion 14 and the inner element or the inner glove.

21 shows a schematic view of a device 10 for tremor reduction. according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. The device 10 has a fastening device 12 on. The fastening device 12 is designed in the form of a glove, the fingertips of the fingers are free. In this way, activities such as grasping things can be facilitated with the hand, since things can be grasped immediately in a natural way with the fingertips.

The device 10 has seven vibration damping devices 18 ₁ to 18 ₂ on. The vibration damping devices 18 ₁ to 18 ₄ are arranged in the area of the finger base joints of the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger and the little finger. The vibration damping devices 18 ₅ and 18 ₆ are located in the area of the carpal bone. The vibration damping devices 18 ₅ and 18 ₆ are identical, but extend angled to each other. The vibration damping device 18 ₇ is located in the metacarpals.

22 shows a sectional view along the section line XXII-XXII in 21 , 22 shows a sectional view of the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₇ , The device 10 has a fastening device 12 on. The fastening device 12 has a fixing section 14 which extends along the back of the hand H of the tremor patient's hand. The fastening device 12 also has a receiving section 16 that of a wall 26 and a floor 28 is formed. The floor 26 and the wall 28 lay a receiving opening 30 firmly. In the receiving opening 30 is the vibration damping device 32 added. The receiving opening 30 can through a closure element 20 be closed. The closure element 20 is disc-shaped.

The vibration damping device 18 ₇ has an absorber mass 32 and a spring element 40 , The spring element 40 is formed in the form of a leaf spring. The spring element 40 extends between the ground 28 and the absorber mass 32 arcuate. The spring element 40 rests on the ground 28 and carries the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 40 stands with an elastic retaining element 48 in contact, which is loop-shaped. The elastic retaining element 48 extends from the ground 28 and can be integral with the ground 28 be educated. The spring element 40 extends transversely to the elastic retaining element 48 , The elastic retaining element 48 can be like the attachment device 12 According to this embodiment, for example be made of silicone. The elastic retaining element 48 couples the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₇ with the fastening device 12 traction-transmitting. The elastic retaining element 48 thus prevents the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₇ is lifted off the hand H or slipped. The elastic retaining element 48 Accordingly, ensures that the of the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 ₇ generated vibration on the hand H can be transmitted.

The 23 to 26 show views of a device 10 for tremor reduction according to an eighth embodiment. The following with reference to the 23 to 26 eighth embodiment described corresponds largely to the above with reference to the 5 to 8th described second embodiment. The only significant difference between the two embodiments lies in the design of the spring element of the vibration damping device 18 ,

23 shows a perspective view of the device 10 for tremor reduction according to the eighth embodiment. 24 shows a partially broken front view of the device 10 , The device 10 has the fastening device 12 and the vibration damping device 18 on that in the receiving section 16 the fastening device 12 is included. In the broken portion of the receiving portion 16 is the vibration damping device 18 with the absorber mass 32 and the spring element 50 recognizable, that is between the ground 28 and the absorber mass 32 extends. The spring element 50 acts according to this embodiment as a bending beam. The spring element 50 is formed by a leaf spring. The spring element 50 is rectangular in cross section according to this embodiment. The spring element 50 For example, it may be a metal strip that is in contact with the floor 28 and the absorber mass 32 connected is.

25 shows a sectional view along the section line XXV-XXV in 24 , The vibration damping device 18 is in the receiving opening 30 the receiving section 14 added. In the sectional view according to 25 the spring element appears 50 as a bridge, which is at rest of the device 10 substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface 28 extends.

In a synopsis of 24 and 25 it will be seen that the spring element 50 transverse to the central axis M of the attachment section 14 extends. The spring element 50 has a predetermined extent transverse to the central axis M on. By this arrangement and extension of the spring element 50 can the absorber mass 32 in the direction of the central axis M swing back and forth. This allows the Schwingungstilgungseinrichtung 18 with the thus arranged spring element 50 and the absorber mass 32 generate a vibration that is in the direction of the central axis M of the attachment section 14 acts. With the device 10 Thus, according to this embodiment, a vibrational form of the tremor tremor of the tremor patient can be employed which oscillates in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the fingers (not shown) of a hand.

The 27 to 30 show views of a device 10 for tremor reduction according to a ninth embodiment. The following with reference to the 27 to 30 Ninth embodiment described corresponds largely to the above with reference to the 23 to 26 described eighth embodiment. Both embodiments differ only by the extension or arrangement of the spring element 50 , As in particular in the 28 and 29 is shown, the spring element extends 50 parallel to the central axis M of the attachment section 14 the fastening device 12 , The spring element 50 has a predetermined extent in the axial direction. The radial extent of the spring element 50 lies in alignment with the central axis M , Also in this Ausfüh embodiment, the spring element extends 50 between the ground 28 and the absorber mass 32 , The spring element 50 acts according to this embodiment as a bending beam. The spring element 50 is formed by a leaf spring. The spring element 50 is rectangular in cross section according to this embodiment. The spring element 50 For example, it may be a metal strip that is in contact with the floor 28 and the absorber mass 32 connected is.

Like from the 28 and 29 it becomes clear that the over the spring element 50 on the ground 28 attached absorber mass 32 in a direction transverse to the central axis M swing back and forth, as the spring element 50 parallel to the central axis M extends. A , The vibration damping device 18 thus creates a transverse to the central axis M acting vibration. With the device 10 Thus, a vibrational form of the tremor tremor of the tremor patient can be emphasized, which oscillates in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the finger.

31 shows a schematic view of a device 10 in which the vibration damping device 18 an electrical resonant circuit 52 having. The device 10 stands with the hand H in contact. The device 10 further comprises a sensor / detector 54 and an actor 56 , The sensor / detector 54 senses tremor tremors of the patient. The sensor / detector 54 For example, it can sense the frequency and / or amplitude of tremor trembling. Based on the determined frequency and / or amplitude of Tremorzitterns is with the electrical resonant circuit 52 generates a vibration with a natural frequency suitable for eradicating tremor trembling of the tremor patient. Based on the of the electrical resonant circuit 52 output vibration, the actuator, such as a vibration motor, driven, which transmits the vibration to the eradication of tremor trembling on the hand of Tremorpatienten.

32 shows a schematic view of an exemplary electrical resonant circuit 52 , The electrical resonant circuit 52 has a resistance 58 , an induction coil 60 and a capacitor 62 which are connected in series. The resistance 58 may for example be a variable or adjustable resistor. Further, an impedance converter 64 is provided, which adjusts the input voltage to the output voltage of the consumer. at U _A becomes the actor 56 connected, which transmits the vibration required for the eradication of tremor trembling on the hand of the patient. The impedance converter 64 is provided for stabilizing the electrical resonant circuit to a reaction of, for example, to drive the actuator 56 necessary current flow to the resonant circuit 52 , which could influence the frequency of the resonant circuit, to prevent. It would also be possible the impedance converter 64 to switch via an operational amplifier. The device 10 For example, it can be powered by a battery.

The vibration damping device 18 or the vibration damping devices 18 can be adjusted and tuned to the frequency and the amplitude of tremor trembling of the tremor patient with their natural frequency and their oscillation amplitude. This results in a tilier effect that reduces tremor tremors. The vibration damping device 18 can over the attachment device 12 at a predetermined position on the tremor-underlying body part and securely held at this predetermined position. With the vibration damping device 18 the device 10 for tremor reduction, one or more different vibration modes of the body part can be used.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• WO 0180710 A2 [0002]

Claims (27)

Portable device (10) for tremor reduction, comprising: at least one vibration damping device (18), which is designed to generate at least one vibration with at least one vibration amplitude, with which the amplitude of tremor trembling can be reduced, and at least one fastening device (12) which accommodates the at least one vibration damping device (18) at least in sections, the at least one fastening device (12) being designed for attachment to a body part, wherein the at least one fastening device (12) comprises the at least one vibration damping device (18). vibrationally transmits to the body part (H). Device (10) according to Claim 1 wherein the at least one vibration damping device (18) has at least one absorber mass (32) and at least one spring element (34, 38, 40, 50) which is connected to the at least one absorber mass (32). Device (10) according to Claim 2 wherein the at least one spring element (34, 38, 40, 50) couples the at least one absorber mass (32) to the at least one fastening device (12). Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 3 wherein the fastening device (12) has at least one receiving portion (16) in which the at least one vibration damping device (18) is received at least in sections. Device (10) according to Claim 4 wherein the receiving portion (16) via the at least one spring element (34, 38, 40, 50) with the at least one absorber mass (32) is connected. Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 5 wherein the attachment means (12) comprises at least one attachment portion (14) adapted to maintain the at least one vibration damping means (18) in vibration-transmitting contact with the body part (H). Device (10) according to Claim 6 wherein the at least one fastening portion (14) is at least partially elastic in order to keep the at least one vibration damping device (18) in vibration-transmitting contact with the body part (H). Device (10) according to Claim 6 or 7 wherein the at least one mounting portion (14) comprises at least one resilient retaining member (24, 48) for maintaining the at least one vibration damping device (18) in vibration-transmitting contact with the body part (H). Device (10) according to Claim 1 , wherein the at least one vibration damping device (18) has at least one electrical resonant circuit. Device (10) according to Claim 9 in that vibration damping device (18) has at least one actuator (56) which is designed to transmit the vibrations generated by the electrical oscillating circuit (52) to the respective body part of the tremor patient with a vibration amplitude for reducing the amplitude of tremor trembling. Device (10) according to Claim 9 or 10 in that the device (10) has at least one sensor or detector (56) which detects the tremor frequency and / or the oscillation amplitude of the respective body part of the tremor patient. Device (10) according to Claim 11 , wherein the sensor or detector (56) simultaneously acts as an actuator for transmitting the vibrations generated by the electrical oscillating circuit (52) to the respective body part of the tremor patient. Device (10) according to one of Claims 9 to 12 wherein the electrical resonant circuit (52) comprises at least one impedance converter (64). Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 13 wherein the device (10) comprises a plurality of vibration damping devices (18), which are arranged offset from one another on the at least one fastening device (12). Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 14 wherein the at least one fastening device (12) has at least one adjusting device with which the fastening device (12) can be adapted to the respective body part. Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 15 , wherein the fastening device (12) is designed in the form of a one- or multi-part finger ring, wherein the fastening portion (14) is designed to be ring-shaped for attachment to a finger. Device (10) according to Claim 16 wherein the attachment portion (14) is formed with the adjustment device, wherein with the adjustment device, the inner diameter of the attachment portion (14) is adaptable to the diameter of a finger. Device (10) according to Claim 16 or 17 wherein the at least one elastic retaining element (24) is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the fastening portion (14). Device (10) according to one of Claims 16 to 18 wherein the at least one elastic retaining element (24) is arranged radially inside the receiving portion (16). Device (10) according to one of Claims 4 to 19 wherein the at least one receiving portion (16) is formed such that the at least one receiving portion (16) forms an encapsulation for the at least one vibration damping device (18). Device (10) according to one of Claims 4 to 20 wherein the at least one receiving portion (16) via at least one closure element (20) or at least a portion of the fastening means (12) is closable. Device (10) according to one of Claims 4 to 21 wherein the at least one receiving portion (14) is formed in the form of a housing in which the at least one vibration damping device (18) is accommodated. Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 22 , wherein the fastening device (12) is band-shaped or annular or in the form of a glove or in the form of a hat or in the form of a cap or in the form of a sock. Device (10) according to one of Claims 1 to 23 in that the fastening device (12) has at least one inner element or at least one abutment element (46) which is designed to make contact with the skin of the tremor patient and / or serve as a support for the at least one vibration damping device (18). Device (10) according to one of Claims 8 to 24 in which the at least one elastic retaining element (48) couples the at least one spring element (40) in a force-transmitting manner to the at least one fastening device (12). Device (10) according to one of Claims 8 to 25 wherein the at least one elastic retaining element (24, 48) is fixedly connected to the fastening device (12) or formed integrally with the fastening device (12). Arrangement for tremor reduction, wherein the arrangement comprises a plurality of devices for tremor reduction according to one of Claims 1 to 26 having.

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