EP4359088B1 - Device for stimulating certain organs of the human body with charges in order to prevent their degeneration - Google Patents

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the field of physical exercise and physiotherapy devices aimed at slowing down, preventing or treating degenerative diseases. The invention relates to a device for stimulating certain organs of the human body by means of charges in order to prevent, avoid, slow down or treat their degeneration.

In particular, the invention relates to a device enabling the development of muscular efforts by a user in order to stimulate the muscles and transmit pressures of adapted intensity and duration on different joints and different bones of the musculoskeletal chain, thus leading to effects of stimulation, maintenance, development and rehabilitation of certain functions of the human body and the organs concerned with a view to slowing down or preventing or treating degenerative diseases.

STATE OF PRIOR ART

Currently, in developed countries, the increase in life expectancy is accompanied by an increase in degenerative diseases. Indeed, muscular, bone and cartilage degeneration are developments linked to age, harmful behaviors, particularly dietary ones, the use of substances that are dangerous for organs and deficits, or even the absence, of suitable mechanical stimulation due to a very sedentary lifestyle.

These degenerations often lead to diseases such as sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis, which cause profound disabilities, some of which have no satisfactory solution in the current state of medicine. Approximately one-third of people over 60 are affected by osteoarthritis, and more than half of women suffer from osteoporotic fractures after the age of 50.

As a result, it is very common for patients to be affected by several of these conditions at the same time, or even by all three conditions, with some causes being common. Correlations exist between osteoarthritis and osteoporosis and it has been proven that Sarcopenia increases the risk of osteoporosis by twelve. A recent medical term defines this combination of diseases: osteosarcopenia.

Most cases of these degenerative diseases could have been the subject of "primary prevention", according to the classification of the World Health Organization, making it possible, if not to definitively avoid, at least to permanently postpone the appearance of these diseases or even to cure or treat them.

Among the primary prevention measures that can be considered, appropriate physical exercises can stimulate muscles, bones and cartilage in such a way as to give them the signal for maintenance, or even strengthening if done in time. Indeed, these different tissues are living and adapt to their living conditions in a fairly comparable way, because they come from the same embryonic layers: the mesoderm. Biologists have known for a long time that muscles, bones and cartilage adapt to stress and effort, provided that these are sufficient, without being excessive (due to the risks of muscle "strain", in particular elongation and tearing, fractures or crushing of bones, accelerated erosion of cartilage, etc.).

Constraint has always been used to strengthen muscles.

Regarding the skeleton, Wolff's law (a surgeon from the University of Berlin) has observed since 1892 that bone adapts to the loads it undergoes by transforming its internal architecture. Indeed, following physiological mechanical stimulation, osteocytes readjust their local environment. However, greater constraints lead to their death and then more intense bone remodeling, if the other bone cells are functional. Rest periods between stimulations improve the functioning of bone remodeling.

When it comes to cartilage, science has shown that lack of load, overload, static load and certain vibrations are all equally harmful to cartilage cells and structure.

Ultimately, almost all orthopedic tissues of the musculoskeletal chains of the locomotor system benefit from moderate levels of stress, while insufficient or excessive loads are harmful to them.

There is therefore material for a solution to stimulate the bones and muscles of the locomotor system to strengthen them, prevent or reverse the development of osteoporosis and sarcopenia, by respecting and maintaining cartilage to slow down, or even prevent, the progression to severe osteoarthritis.

Given the scale of the health damage caused by sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and osteoarthritis, pharmacological solutions have been developed over the past fifty years. Experts in these fields include biologists, physicians, and pharmacists.

• stimulation quasi-hormonale des ostéoblastes (cellules bâtisseuses d'os), d'utilisation limitée dans le temps en raison de suspicions cancérogènes,
• insertion dans la trame osseuse de molécules de bisphosphonates que les ostéoclastes (cellules destructrices d'os) ne savent pas déplacer,
• inhibition du fonctionnement des ostéoclastes...

For example, to combat osteoporosis, different pharmaceutical molecules are available with very different mechanisms of action:

• quasi-hormonal stimulation of osteoblasts (bone-building cells), of limited use in time due to carcinogenic suspicions,
• insertion into the bone structure of bisphosphonate molecules that osteoclasts (bone-destroying cells) cannot move,
• inhibition of osteoclast function...

While these medications reduce the risk of severe fractures (femur, vertebrae), they have the disadvantage of real constraints of use with significant inconveniences. In addition, these medications can cause serious side effects (osteonecrosis, atypical fractures, immune interference, cardiovascular problems, to name just a few...).

One of the difficulties in terms of public health is the hidden abandonment of treatment by the patient, which can reach 75% of cases after one year.

Another example, the Learned Societies have proposed a protocol for medical or non-medical support for osteoarthritis patients to slow down the progression, cope with the pain and delay the installation of prostheses.

• un apport optimisé de nutriments (minéraux, vitamines, protéines...) indispensables aux muscles, aux os et aux cartilages,
• une amélioration des conditions d'absorption et d'utilisation de ces nutriments par le corps (digestion, diminution de l'inflammation chronique...),
• une rééducation du sens de l'équilibre (appareillage des sens, notamment la vue, apports suffisants en vitamine D, exercices stimulant l'équilibre),
• une stimulation des organes par des activités physiques adaptées,
• un assouplissement des grands groupes musculaires et articulaires.

Alongside these medicinal approaches, hygiene and dietary measures may be proposed, including:

• an optimized supply of nutrients (minerals, vitamins, proteins, etc.) essential for muscles, bones and cartilage,
• an improvement in the conditions of absorption and use of these nutrients by the body (digestion, reduction of chronic inflammation, etc.),
• re-education of the sense of balance (training the senses, particularly sight, sufficient intake of vitamin D, exercises to stimulate balance),
• stimulation of the organs through adapted physical activities,
• a relaxation of the large muscle and joint groups.

Various expertise is necessary to synthesize knowledge from these fields: nutrition, digestion, neurology, rheumatology, etc.

To physiologically stimulate the organs, various solutions are possible: physical activities with impacts (jumping, in particular, for the leg bones), carrying loads, including weightlifting and bodybuilding in particular...

Recent experiments conducted on osteoporotic populations (including the LIFTMOR study in Australia since 2016) have shown that weight-lifting exercises have significant positive impacts on both bone and muscle health in patients' bodies.

The issue of joint health has been the subject of other studies that have recently shown that proper maintenance of cartilage requires stimulation with sufficient pressure. However, it has become apparent that these stimulations should not be excessive, static, or of too high a frequency.

Over the years, various devices have been invented, including strength training machines, vibrating or tilting platforms, both mechanical and electrical. These devices allow the stimulation of the muscles and skeleton, as well as other organs in the user's body.

Existing solutions today for stimulating muscle, bone and joint chains have significant limitations.

For example, in the document FR 2 755 , the device described consists of a support, two straps equipped with handles to put the patient's body under tension for the purpose of taking medical images. This device, the aim of which is not physiological or therapeutic stimulation, but positioning for carrying out medical imaging recordings, has the main disadvantage of imposing a certain passivity of the patient, in particular in a lying position, which is not physiological and without positional control, leading to risks of postures dangerous and inadequate pressures on certain organs. In addition, the patient does not have sufficient physiological control over the prolongation of the stimulation which does not really depend on him, nor on his physiological state, but which depends much more on the imaging constraints. This device does not provide any particular adjustment means to adapt it to the morphology and specific constraints of the patient. Finally, this invention does not describe a method of implementing the device described.

In the document US2012/040799 , a method for performing constraint exercises with repetitions and recovery periods and an associated device consisting of a contact surface, an actuator, a user interface, a monitoring and control processor are disclosed. This device allows a full contraction exercise program for patients wishing to improve their health or fitness in a wide variety of areas: metabolic syndrome, deconditioned state, osteoporosis or osteopenia, susceptibility to injury, diabetes, pain, chronic non-specific low back pain, fibromyalgia, obesity, multiple sclerosis, low back pain, sports injury, brain disorder. However, this method and this device have, as main disadvantages, having extremely broad or even incompatible indications; making users work at 100% of their muscular power in a single effort, in a static position, thus causing an intense load on their muscles and bones with risks for the users'vertebrae; to endanger their cartilage (intense static load) due to the intensity of the pressures generated, as has been known for years; to use a system taking up a lot of floor space, which cannot be dismantled quickly or easily; to require a permanent third-party operator to accompany the user of the device.

The document US 2017/014662 A1 discloses all the features of the preamble of claim 1.

25 PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

An aim of the invention is to provide a device aimed at at least partially overcoming the drawbacks previously mentioned while making it possible to stimulate the musculoskeletal chain of a patient user in a simple manner.

According to the invention, the problem is solved by the stimulation device of claim 1. To this end, there is provided, according to the invention, a device for stimulating certain organs of the body of a user in a standing or sitting position, comprising a platform arranged so as to be able to support the user, in particular in a standing or sitting position, means for transmitting forces positioned between the platform and the user, during use of the stimulation device, means for securing the user.

• la plateforme supporte ou intègre un siège ;
• le siège est monté fixe ou mobile avec la plateforme ;
• le dispositif comprend des systèmes de mesure des stimulations et un système de visualisation des efforts et de leurs modalités ;
• les moyens d'assujettissement à l'utilisateur comprennent une ceinture ou un harnais ou un joug ou des poignées ou des bracelets ou des bandages ou une combinaison quelconque de ces derniers ;
• le dispositif comprend un ou plusieurs moyens d'adaptation ou de réglage fixés ou intégrés sur les moyens de transmission ou sur les moyens d'assujettissement ;
• le dispositif comprend des systèmes d'amplification des efforts associés aux moyens de transmission des efforts ;
• les systèmes d'amplification des efforts sont actionnables par des moyens mécanique, électrique, pneumatique, hydraulique ou autre, notamment un palan mécanique ou un actionneur électrique ou un vérin ou un pantographe ;
• le dispositif comprend des systèmes de contrôle de position ou de sécurité de l'utilisateur, notamment dans l'assiette ou la position du dos, dans l'approche, l'atteinte ou le dépassement d'un seuil d'effort prédéfini ou le déséquilibre dans l'application des efforts ;
• le dispositif comporte un système automatique programmable d'une séance d'exercices ;
• le système automatique programmable est agencé de sorte réaliser une acquisition ou un traitement ou un pilotage ou une restitution visuelle ou sonore ou kinesthésique des données ou des programmes des séances ;
• le dispositif comprend en outre des systèmes de connexion, de traitement et de stockage de données à distance, agencés de sorte à permettre notamment une sauvegarde, une mise à jour, une animation, un pilotage, un contrôle et/ou la supervision à distance ;
• le dispositif est agencé de sorte à ce que tout ou partie du dispositif est modulaire ;
• le dispositif est agencé de sorte à ce que tout ou partie du dispositif est facilement démontable ; et,
• le dispositif est agencé de sorte à ce que tout ou partie du dispositif est repliable, de sorte à limiter la place occupée en dehors d'une utilisation du dispositif.

Advantageously, but optionally, the stimulation device according to the invention has at least one of the following technical characteristics:

• the platform supports or incorporates a seat;
• the seat is mounted fixed or mobile with the platform;
• the device includes systems for measuring stimulations and a system for visualizing efforts and their modalities;
• the means of securing the user include a belt or harness or yoke or handles or wristbands or bandages or any combination thereof;
• the device comprises one or more adaptation or adjustment means fixed or integrated on the transmission means or on the securing means;
• the device includes force amplification systems associated with the force transmission means;
• the force amplification systems can be operated by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other means, in particular a mechanical hoist or an electric actuator or a jack or a pantograph;
• the device includes systems for controlling the user's position or safety, in particular in the seat or position of the back, in approaching, reaching or exceeding a predefined force threshold or imbalance in the application of forces;
• the device includes an automatic programmable system of an exercise session;
• the programmable automatic system is arranged to carry out an acquisition or processing or piloting or a visual or sound or kinesthetic restitution of the data or the programs of the sessions;
• the device further comprises remote data connection, processing and storage systems, arranged in such a way as to enable in particular remote backup, updating, animation, piloting, control and/or supervision;
• the device is arranged so that all or part of the device is modular;
• the device is arranged so that all or part of the device is easily dismantled; and,
• the device is arranged so that all or part of the device is foldable, so as to limit the space occupied when the device is not in use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

• [Fig.1] est une vue tridimensionnelle d'un mode de réalisation d'un dispositif de stimulation selon l'invention ;
• [Fig.2] est une vue tridimensionnelle du dispositif de stimulation selon l'invention de la figure 1 avec un utilisateur debout ;
• [Fig.3] est une vue tridimensionnelle d'une variante de réalisation du dispositif de la figure 1 comportant un siège ;
• [Fig 4] est une vue tridimensionnelle d'une autre variante de réalisation du dispositif de stimulation selon l'invention avec un utilisateur permettant une stimulation des poignets ;
• [Fig 5] est une vue tridimensionnelle du dispositif de stimulation selon l'invention de la figure 3 avec un utilisateur assis ; et,
• [Fig 6] est une représentation schématique d'un procédé de programmation des séances mis en œuvre par un dispositif de stimulation selon l'invention des figures 1 à 5.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from reading the following description of an embodiment of the invention, as well as a variant. In the attached drawings:

• [ Fig. 1 ] is a three-dimensional view of an embodiment of a stimulation device according to the invention;
• [ Fig.2 ] is a three-dimensional view of the stimulation device according to the invention of the figure 1 with a standing user;
• [ Fig.3 ] is a three-dimensional view of an alternative embodiment of the device of the figure 1 comprising a seat;
• [ Fig 4 ] is a three-dimensional view of another variant embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention with a user enabling stimulation of the wrists;
• [ Fig 5 ] is a three-dimensional view of the stimulation device according to the invention of the figure 3 with a seated user; and,
• [ Fig 6 ] is a schematic representation of a method for programming sessions implemented by a stimulation device according to the invention of figures 1 to 5 .

For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference signs throughout the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In reference to the Figures 1 and 2 , we will describe a first embodiment of a stimulation device according to the invention. The stimulation device according to the invention stimulates, by loads, certain organs of the human body to prevent, avoid or treat degenerative conditions such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, sarcopenia, osteoarthritis. This loading jointly stimulates and strengthens several chains of muscles-joints-bones involving in particular, for the bones, the thoracic and lumbar spine, the sacrum, the pelvis, the shoulders and possibly the lower limbs, in particular the femurs, the upper limbs, as well as the related organs, mainly by the action of the user developing calibrated sequences of efforts and rest with limited or almost zero joint movements.

As an example illustrated in the figure 1 , the stimulation device according to the invention comprises a platform or base 1 intended to support a user, in particular standing or sitting. This platform 1 is positioned on the ground, when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

On the other hand, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises one or more force transmission means 3. These latter comprise one or more securing means 4, one or more force amplification systems 5, one or more means for adjusting or adapting the amplitude of the movement 6, one or more means for adjusting or adapting 9 the force transmission means 3 or the securing means 4. According to variant embodiments of the stimulation device according to the invention, the securing means 4 to the user comprise means for interfacing with the arms or the pelvis or the shoulders or the thorax of the user or a combination of these interfacing means, such as a belt or a harness or a yoke or handles or bracelets or bandages or any combination of these.

According to other variant embodiments, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises one or more adaptation or adjustment means 6, 9 fixed or integrated in the force transmission means 3 or in the securing means 4. These adaptation means 9 make it possible to adjust the stimulation device according to the invention to the positioning, morphology and specificities of the user, for example the height, the position of the lower limbs, those of the upper limbs, or other bodily specificities specific to the latter. These adaptation means are also arranged so as to be able to take into account the personal physiological characteristics, in particular the limitations, ailments and pains, of the user. Furthermore, the adaptation means 6 make it possible to elastically modulate the amplitude of the movements to be made to achieve a predetermined effort.

On the other hand, the force amplification system(s) 5 of the stimulation device according to the invention, associated with the force transmission means 3, can be actuated by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other means, such as for example a mechanical hoist or an electric actuator or a jack or a pantograph.

In addition, the stimulation device according to the invention may comprise one or more command-control-safety systems, and one or more systems 7a and/or 7b for measuring, displaying, programming and recording the stimulations, the latter being connected to one or more visualization systems, visual and/or sound and/or kinesthetic, or audiovisual 8 piloting of the efforts and their modalities during exercises carried out when using the stimulation device according to the invention. In addition, the stimulation device according to the invention may include systems for controlling the position or safety of the user, such as the seat or position of the back, in the approach, reaching or exceeding of a predefined effort threshold or the imbalance in the application of efforts, and this during use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

Alternatively, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises an intrinsic safety system arranged so that, during use, a reduction in muscular effort by the user or a release of the securing means 4 makes it possible to interrupt the load on the organs without delay.

In an alternative embodiment illustrated in figures 3 And 5 , the stimulation device according to the invention comprises a seat 2 resting on the measuring system 7a of the platform 1.

It should be noted that all or part of the elements forming an embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention may be modular, for example so that they can be easily dismantled. In addition, certain elements are foldable, so as to limit the space occupied outside periods of use in order to facilitate storage of the stimulation device according to the invention.

We will now specify the various aforementioned elements included in the stimulation device according to the invention.

The platform 1 or base, generally placed in a low position on the ground or provided, for this purpose, with adjustable or non-adjustable feet, serves as a rigid or semi-rigid base for the stimulation device according to the invention, to allow a certain - limited - mobility during efforts, making it possible to fix and maintain in position the majority of the elements of the device. This platform 1 is made, for example, of metal, reinforced glass, natural or synthetic material, several materials being able to be used simultaneously to form a composite platform 1. The platform 1 can be solid or perforated, in a single element or in assembled elements, in particular by gluing, welding, wedging, mechanical fixing, or any other assembly method appropriate to the materials chosen to form the platform 1 of the stimulation device according to the invention.

In the embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention comprising the seat 2, the latter is placed on the platform 1 and is provided so that the user who cannot or does not wish to stand can use the stimulation device according to the invention in order to exercise a part of his body when using the stimulation device according to the invention. This seat 2 is mounted fixed or mobile with the platform 1. The seat 2 is, for example, a simple cushion, a stool permanently fixed or simply placed on the platform 1 or an ergonomic seat (possibly padded) or a self-deploying seat integrated into the platform 1 or the user's wheelchair.

Concerning the force transmission means 3, the latter are formed so that they are completely rigid in traction to transmit all the forces without any movement of the user, or flexible or relatively elastically deformable to allow a certain mobility - limited and controlled - during the forces. These force transmission means 3 are, here, fixed to the platform 1 with removable or non-removable fixing means. Alternatively, they pass under the platform 1 either freely or by means of guidance systems. The force transmission means 3 are, for example, produced by means of one or more straps, ropes, belts, cables, chains, slings, hollow or solid tubes, poles, mechanical profiles, railings, or any other suitable structure. Alternatively, they are produced in the form of a rigid frame or a frame or a column from which one or more straight or profiled arms emerge in front of or between which the user takes place during use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

Concerning the securing means 4, the latter are, here, produced in the form of rigid or flexible handles. They can also be either in the form of one or more rectilinear or profiled traction bars, possibly provided with handles, or in the form of wrist straps arranged so as to encircle the user's wrists when using the stimulation device according to the invention, or in the form of a harness or a collar or a yoke placed on the user's shoulders when using the stimulation device according to the invention, or in the form of a belt resting on the upper part of the user's pelvis when using the stimulation device according to the invention, or in a combined form placed on the shoulders or encircling the user's waist or allowing gripping by the hands or attachment to the forearms when using the stimulation device according to the invention. The restraint means 4 are made symmetrically, either in simple symmetry on the sides (left and right) of the user, or in double symmetry (transverse and axial), so as to allow a completely physiological position of the organs intended to be stimulated or used, during use of the stimulation device according to the invention, in particular the trunk and particularly the spinal column, the arms, the shoulders, the pelvis, and all the lower limbs, including joints. The securing means 4 limit the risks of cantilevered positions and efforts, detrimental to optimal stimulation of the said organs thus targeted by use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

The effort amplification systems 5 allow, for their part, to stimulate the user's organs more intensely when using the stimulation device according to the invention, including in completely static or immobile positions incompatible with sufficient effort intensity and within the limits of the efforts and pressures acceptable for each user. The force amplification systems 5 are mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and/or pneumatic integrated either into the platform 1 or into the force transmission means 3. According to an alternative embodiment of the stimulation device according to the invention, the force amplification systems 5 are produced by means of a hoist actuated by the user's arms, making it possible to tension the force transmission means 3 (straps, cables, ropes, belts, chains, etc.) between the platform 1 and the securing means 4 on the user (harness, yoke, belt, etc.). The amplification can also be carried out, for example, by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, magnetic, reel, jack or pantograph actuator, or any other suitable means.

The means 6 for adjusting or adapting the amplitude of a movement allow, for their part, that, on the one hand, the effort is exerted with a controlled movement to facilitate the control of the effort or to avoid the rigidity of the effort which can be painful for certain people, in particular the oldest people, and, on the other hand, to control or avoid static efforts on the cartilages. The modes of implementing the adaptation can also reside in the use of flexible or deformable materials to produce certain elements of the stimulation device according to the invention, such as the platform 1, the means of transmitting the efforts 3, the seat 2, the securing means 4. To obtain a more precise adjustment, intermediate parts deformable under the effort such as elastic straps, springs, interchangeable or adjustable shock absorbers can be used if necessary.

The adjustment or adaptation means 9 allow different adjustment ranges depending on the size of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, of its corpulence, limitations of movement, installation method, use of a power multiplier, etc.

For example, systems for adjusting the height of the stimulation device according to the invention make it possible to adapt the height of the gripping or installation or securing systems 4 so as to allow the user of the stimulation device according to the invention to work in his zone of greatest power and greatest comfort while respecting his personal physiological characteristics. The adjustment systems are either continuous, any position between the extremes being usable, or discrete, a certain number of pre-set positions being selectable. In the case of one or more straps, the adjustment can in particular be made by a choice of straps of different lengths, by sliding one end into a self-locking jamming loop or ratchet loop fixed to another end, by jamming the tongue of a loop in a notch among a set of notches, by long self-gripping closure, by stapling, by fixing the gripping handles in eyelets arranged at regular intervals, etc.

In the case of one or more cables or ropes, the adjustment is made, for example, by a choice of cables or ropes of different lengths, by moving and adjusting cable clamps, by a self-locking manual or electric winch system, by mechanical or electric reel or other, possibly self-locking or fixed and controlled by a trigger at the grip handle or fixed on, under or in the platform 1. In all the preceding cases, the adjustment can be made by adding one or more rings or shackles or carabiners of appropriate lengths or adjustable metal, synthetic or textile shackles. Finally, the adjustment can also be made by inserting height shims or spacers on the platform 1 of the stimulation device according to the invention.

For the user's body size, adjustments are made, for example, by accessories (harnesses, belts, yokes, etc.) adapted to body size ranges and usable by people with similar body characteristics (waist, hip, chest, neck, neck height, bust, shoulder widths, etc.) or by accessories adjustable on all or part of the dimensions mentioned by means in particular of cushions, straps, straps with different types of locking system (barb, jamming buckles, self-gripping fabrics, eyelets, clips, elastic bands, etc.).

In the case of using a power multiplier per hoist, the adjustments are made, for example, by choosing the number of pulleys used to multiply the force, also involving an adjustment of the useful cable length (in the broad sense).

To take into account the limitations of possible movement for a user of the stimulation device according to the invention, the working end of the hoist's pulling cable is installed either on the upper pulley (yoke for example), or on the lower pulley (base for example), or even on a pulley fixed at an intermediate height for example, by means of a cable, or equivalent, adjustable in height or a mast having several fixing points.

Concerning, now, the control-safety systems previously mentioned, the latter make it possible to control a gradual increase and an instantaneous or gradual interruption of the efforts according to the decisions of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. For example, they can be controlled by an automation limiting the efforts within a range predefined by or according to the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or controlled by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention or a third-party operator by means of an electric, hydraulic, magnetic or pneumatic proportional trigger, independent or fixed on one of the gripping handles of the stimulation device according to the invention.

According to an alternative embodiment, significant safety is provided by releasing the handles that the user holds in his hands and which serve either as a fixed point for transmitting forces or as a force multiplication system. By releasing or releasing said handles, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention immediately puts an end, without any delay, to the effort to which he is subjected to stimulate his organs, when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

According to another variant embodiment, a position safety of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention is achieved by a comparison of the loads on each foot, possibly each arm of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or a load differential existing between the front and the back of each foot. An anomaly signal and interruption of the sequence of exercises being carried out with the stimulation device according to the invention is emitted in the event of an imbalance greater than the previously determined setpoint.

According to another variant, position safety is achieved by means of a visual or audio sequence reminding the position instructions to be observed when using the stimulation device according to the invention.

Furthermore, still as a variant, these positions are secured by means of luminous templates or gauges drawn or to be fixed on the platform 1 or to be placed on the spine and shoulders to guide the position of the feet, pelvis, spine or head of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention.

Furthermore, the systems 7a, 7b for measuring the forces applied to/by the user are either inserted into the force transmission means 3, or placed on the platform 1, or integrated into the platform 1, or forming part of the securing means 4 on the user, or inserted at the interface between two of the different parts of the stimulation device according to the invention. Alternatively, the systems 7a, 7b for measuring the forces make it possible, by means of sensors distributed on the platform 1 or in the force transmission means 3, to guarantee good physical and postural positioning of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention by comparing the spatial variations of the pressures exerted, in particular longitudinally or transversely under the user's feet, on his shoulders, on his hips. They comprise, for these purposes, pressure or traction sensors, as the case may be, as well as a system for integrating and transducing the data from the sensors thus provided in the stimulation device according to the invention.

Regarding the visual display and control systems 8, the latter summarize and visually integrate the data from the force measurement systems 7a, 7b. These display and control systems 8 are either integrated into the force measurement systems 7a, 7b, or returned remotely, for example by a cable or a wireless connection, in particular according to the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi standards, to be easily viewed by the user in a safe force position when using the stimulation device according to the invention. The different options are not mutually exclusive. These systems can be adjustable according to the characteristics of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. The visual display and control systems 8 can include an adjustable calibration system making it possible, for example, to subtract all or part of the user's weight for the display of the forces, or to set a minimum or maximum force threshold to be reached.

Sound or visual or kinesthetic indication systems of the user's efforts are possibly integrated with the measurement systems 7a, 7b or sent remotely so that they are easily perceived by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or even so that only the user of the stimulation device according to the invention can perceive them, in particular by integration with individual transmitters (glasses, headphones, earphones, vibrator, etc.). These indication systems are possibly adjustable according to the characteristics of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. They can make it possible, for example, to temporally mark combinations or sequences or chains of rest and efforts of variable modalities, intensities and durations, for example increasing or decreasing, symmetrical or not, involving all or part of the musculoskeletal and osseous chains (forearms, arms, shoulders, pelvis, spine, thighs, knees, legs, etc.).

Recording and programming systems can be implemented in order to record, analyze, calculate, restore and display on a screen, the details or summary of previous sessions and their progress, the program of the day's session, the precise description of the current sequence, the relative or absolute progress of the current session, the theoretical programming of future sessions. They are integrated into the stimulation device according to the invention or reported in separate data processing systems.

Depending on the data provided by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention or associated health professionals, the recording and programming systems can, in certain modalities, be programmed either before or after delivery of the stimulation device according to the invention, either by an operator or by the user of the stimulation device according to the invention. This programming integrates, for example, data relating to the power of the efforts to be provided, their duration, their repetition, their gradation, the recovery in a session or between several sessions. It also integrates data collected at each session to allow the intensity of a following session to be adapted (power, duration, repetitions, gradation, recovery, etc.). The recording and programming systems can be arranged so as to give interpretations of the session depending on the ability of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention to complete the session, their performance and the comparison with previous sessions. Based on these elements, recording and programming systems can also provide advice on activities, rest or recovery between sessions. Finally, based on the various pressure and position information, the recording and programming systems are arranged to check whether the position or effort of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention is not suitable, and to indicate the adjustments to be made to correct the position or effort and reduce physiological risks.

In reference to the figure 6 , an example of a method for programming an exercise session implemented by a programmable automatic system provided in the stimulation device according to the invention will now be described.

Each session 6.7-S1,2,i,n of use of the device according to the invention is characterized by a certain number of data. The initial programming data (Intensity: power, duration, gradation, repetitions, etc.) 6.8-PI of a session 6.7-S1,2,i,n come from a calculation step 6.3-C based on the user's objectives 6.1-OU, the user's specificities and limits 6.2-SU, the initial safety instructions 6.4-RIS, and the data from previous sessions. At the end of a session, based on the initial programming 6.8-PI and the results and safety data obtained 6.5-RIS, new data are calculated and stored, including recovery methods 6.9-R.

Finally, session data 6.7-S1,2,i,n are displayed in step 6.6-A.

These previously described steps are, here, provided by data management systems provided in the stimulation device according to the invention or remotely on equipment such as a tablet or a telephone by systems for connection to data networks (in particular the Internet) also allowing the backup, updating, animation, control of the stimulation device according to the invention and the sessions 6.7-S1,2,i,n implemented.

We will now describe a method associated with the use of the stimulation device according to the invention previously described.

Before any use of the stimulation device according to the invention, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention must begin by questioning his personal competence to use it safely, in particular by respecting the general and personal constraints, in particular health constraints, which concern him, and by ensuring that he adopts risk-free exertion positions.

The user of the stimulation device according to the invention must be warned of the importance of adopting safe positions, specifically with regard to his spine, but also for the knees, shoulders and organs that are specifically vulnerable to him.

In the absence of proven skills, or in the case of a specific condition, particularly relating to rheumatic, cardiac, orthopedic or neurological conditions, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention must contact a competent health professional such as a doctor, a physiotherapist, a physical therapist, in order to obtain advice on how to use the stimulation device according to the invention properly, to adopt, if necessary, the precautionary measures necessary for the safe implementation of the stimulation device according to the invention, or even to refrain from using it if the limitations of the potential user are incompatible with the use of the stimulation device according to the invention.

When standing, a generic safety position is to have your feet slightly apart, between head and shoulder width. The feet form an angle of approximately 10° to 30° between them. Depending on the power, the head is kept straight, looking at the horizon, or slightly tilted forward. The chest is out by straightening the ribcage, the pelvis is in a neutral position, stomach tucked in, abdominal muscles contracted. The arms are placed alongside the body in a vertical position. The knees are slightly bent near the maximum power position of the thighs to be able to exert this power upwards. Such a position is illustrated very schematically in the figure 2 .

In the particular case of forearm stimulation by compression, the forearms are raised vertically, the arms taking a position compatible with the user's shape to implement his greatest muscular power. Such a position is illustrated very schematically in the figure 4 .

These positions are adapted as necessary, with the advice of a competent health professional, depending on any personal constraints of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention.

Before using the stimulation device according to the invention, the user checks the integrity of the parts, and particularly the moving parts. He adjusts the height of the securing means 4 in such a way as to exercise in his zone of greatest effectiveness, taking into account both his characteristics personal physiological factors, including strength, as well as any limitations (mobility, position, injury, pain, fragility, lesion, specific precautions, etc.).

To use the stimulation device according to the invention, the user sets up the securing means 4, climbs onto the platform 1, starts the possible measuring systems 7a, 7b, control, recording and carries out a certain number of muscular effort cycles predefined in duration, power, gradation, rest in such a way as to obtain the desired physiological result, according to its specific characteristics.

The user of the stimulation device according to the invention can also use the possible effort amplification systems to more easily reach the desired level of effort, depending on his capacities, his incapacities and his personal physiological and health characteristics.

If the user of the stimulation device according to the invention is standing, without using an effort amplification system, the pressure is generated by an effort of the thighs vertically upwards so as to reach the set power during the duration planned for the sequence.

In other cases, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention uses the handles to generate the set pressure level for the duration planned for the sequence of the current session.

The user of the stimulation device according to the invention thus subjects the organs to be worked (joints, cartilage, muscles, bones) to pressures intense enough to stimulate them, and thus to maintain or strengthen them, and gentle enough to respect their integrity in the short, medium and long term.

Generally speaking, the pressures to be used are within a range of between 40% and 80-90% of the maximum power of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, or even below or above these limits in certain particular cases, so as to stimulate the most powerful organs without damaging the most fragile ones. The number of repetitions (5 to 20 repetitions lasting 5 to 30 seconds, separated by rest periods of 5 to 30 seconds, also) is adapted to the power developed.

For his first session, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, with advice, determines the intensity of the exercise according to his habits of life, of his known physical capacities, of the current loads that he is accustomed to carrying. For increased safety, it is recommended that the user of the stimulation device according to the invention contact a competent health professional (family doctor, physical therapist, physiotherapist, sports doctor, rheumatologist, etc.) to determine the intensity of this first session according to his state of fitness and health, and particularly of the organs participating in the effort. In conducting each session, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, in certain variant embodiments of the stimulation device according to the invention, is assisted by a certain number of visual, luminous, auditory or kinesthetic signals indicating whether the power and/or the duration of the predefined efforts are reached.

The pressures generated are physiological, that is to say they are entirely the result of the efforts of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, unless the user decides to use the possible amplification assistance. The user can interrupt these pressures of his own accord at any time to return almost instantly to a situation of bodily rest in the starting position (generally standing slightly bent, sometimes in a straight upright position or in a more accentuated flexion position, possibly sitting, depending on his morphology and his personal state of fitness and health).

Once the session is finished, the user of the stimulation device according to the invention disengages and stops the components of the stimulation device according to the invention which require it, puts it away if necessary and waits a few days for recovery (typically 2 to 7 days) before starting a new session.

The recovery time depends on the effort. The control and recording systems of the stimulation device according to the invention can calculate it.

In the event of interruption of a session for safety reasons (pain, unresolved inappropriate position, exceeding thresholds, etc.), the user of the stimulation device according to the invention must only resume use of the device after a complete analysis of the causes, a reassessment of the objectives and the intensity of the resumption session, in conjunction with a competent health professional.

In the event of interruption of a session in progress for a reason unrelated to safety (accidental interruption), the user of the stimulation device according to the invention can resume the session where it was interrupted.

A session is successful if the user of the stimulation device according to the invention has implemented the entire program planned for said session.

The reference intensity of the following session and the recovery time before this following session depend on the final objectives of the user of the stimulation device according to the invention, on his capacity to reach and maintain the reference intensity of the session which has just been completed, and, if this is not possible, with reference to previous sessions.

In the event of a session being accidentally interrupted, the intensity of the next session is set to that of the interrupted session.

If the session objectives cannot be achieved, the recovery time is extended (typically doubled), and the program for the next session is developed based on the last successful session.

Alternatively, the program of successive sessions is calculated by the local or remote recording and programming systems, associated with or provided in the stimulation device according to the invention.

In a concrete and purely illustrative manner, in a first version, called simplified, the stimulation device according to the invention is produced as follows:

It comprises a platform 1 measuring 40 cm x 30 cm x 2 cm made of synthetic material (polypropylene, for example), flat on the upper face, reticulated or ribbed on the lower face to stiffen it and give it a resistance capacity of 200 daN, with feet at the four corners 2 cm high.

The stimulation device according to the invention in a simplified version comprises a 5 m long, 2 cm wide strap (polyester for example) with a capacity of 150 daN, passing under the platform 1, closed on itself to form a ring by means of a metal wedging loop allowing the length to be adjusted, the ends also protruding to the left and right of the base. Two rigid handles, one to the right, the other to the left of the base are formed of a hollow rigid synthetic tube with a diameter of 2.5 cm and a length of 12 cm, surrounded by a fitted synthetic foam tube, the void of the rigid tube allowing the previously mentioned strap to pass through, all with a capacity of 150 daN;

A mechanical or electronic weighing system measuring 30 cm x 30 cm, equipped with a needle dial or a remote digital display, with a capacity of 180 kg, equipped with a tare function, is placed on platform 1.

In a second purely illustrative version, called complex, the stimulation device according to the invention is produced as follows.

It comprises a flat platform 1 placed on the ground, measuring 120 cm x 120 cm x 4 cm, formed from a sheet of non-slip treated stainless steel, reinforced and stiffened by expanded metal welded in the lower part, the whole resting on height-adjustable rubber pads, equipped with two rings placed in a middle position 3 cm from the right and left edges of platform 1 opposite each other, with a total support capacity of 500 daN.

In this complex version, the stimulation device according to the invention comprises a yoke (a wooden or synthetic or composite beam, comprising a central U-shaped opening for the neck, intended to be placed on the shoulders), equipped with comfort and protection foams for the user's neck and shoulders, with a total width of 1 m, equipped at each end with a ring, capable of supporting two loads of 200 daN. Two independent load measurement systems of 200 daN are fixed to each ring at the end of the yoke. A force transmission system is composed of two synthetic safety cables with a length of 4 m, with a traction capacity of 200 daN.

The stimulation device according to the invention in its complex version, comprises two rigid handles, passed through the force transmission system, one on the right, the other on the left of the base, each fixed to the end of each force transmission cable, formed of a hollow synthetic tube 2.5 cm in diameter and 12 cm long, surrounded by a fitted synthetic foam tube, the void of the hollow tube allowing a strap 45 cm long, 2 cm wide, sewn onto itself to form a loop, incorporating a metal ring, all with a capacity of 200 daN.

In this version, a force amplification system is composed of four single or multiple pulleys forming two hoists with the force transmission cables, fixed to the rings of the base and the yoke.

The complex version of the stimulation device according to the invention comprises an information display system consisting of a flat electronic screen 20 cm high x 30 cm wide, equipped with an integrated loudspeaker, placed on a desk adjustable in height and connected to the data processing center by cable or waves. In addition, the complex version includes a data acquisition and processing system consisting of a microprocessor and memories, equipped with a program, all connected to the screen, to the measurement systems, connectable to a keyboard, equipped with computer connectors (USB in particular), and possibly to a database and an external processing center via the internet. A security system is integrated into the previous one.

The data acquisition and processing system is implemented as follows. An administrator profile, protected by password, can create, modify, read, suspend, activate and delete all the parameters of the user profiles and their password. The administrator of the program, who can be the user, enters into the program the basic parameters of the exercises to be performed (power, number of repetitions, duration of exercises and rests, gradation in the session, safety threshold, duration of recovery before the next session) under the user profile (case of multi-user device) allowing to start the first stimulation session. These parameters are determined according to the information collected on the fitness, health and possible limitations of the user. The user of the stimulation device according to the invention starts the system, selects his profile (protected by a password). The user is guided through their sessions using visual instructions (absolute power, percentage of power compared to the reference and safety, number of repetitions remaining and completed, time remaining for the current repetition, inappropriate position, imbalance in the use of the device, approaching and crossing safety thresholds, immediate stop) and auditory instructions (time countdown, number of repetitions, immediate stop). At the end of the session, a screen summarizes the session by indicating the objectives achieved, the objectives not achieved, the recommended recovery time, the safety points not respected. The program also allows a calculation of the parameters of the next session based on the results of the last session. In the event of a significant safety problem (in particular exceeding safety thresholds, inability to follow the session parameters, imbalance in the use of the device, poorly controlled position, etc.), the program allows a blocking of the user profile, and displays a notification of the blocking on the administrator screen.

In view of the above, the stimulation device according to the invention is a device of small dimensions and weight, removable or foldable, for certain models, compatible with domestic use in cramped dwellings. However, variations in design and construction of the stimulation device according to the invention allow devices for professional environments (sports halls, rehabilitation centers, gymnasiums, physiotherapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy offices, in particular) that are more intensive, both in duration and in acceptable constraints and number of users.

On the other hand, the stimulation device according to the invention makes it possible to take into account all of the user's characteristics, both their strengths and their physiological limitations in terms of joints (cartilages), skeleton (bones), and musculature (muscles, tendons). Indeed, thanks to its adjustment systems, the stimulation device according to the invention can be adjusted to each user to allow them a position adapted to their morphology, their constraints and their possible limitations with a limited variation of position throughout the effort to remain in their comfort zone, sufficient power and safety, while having a physiological effect on the target organs. It is notably possible to respect painful positions to be avoided, positions of organic weakness or inadequate strength...

Indeed, the stimulation device according to the invention allows the user to exert series of efforts between 40% and 80-90% of his maximum power, making it possible to stimulate both the muscles and the skeleton while respecting the integrity of the cartilage according to the most recent scientific publications. In addition, the stimulation device according to the invention can make it possible to go below (approximately 5%) or beyond (95 to 100%) this zone for specific needs (maximum power tests or limitations, in particular).

Unlike devices that compress the entire body, the stimulation device according to the invention subjects a specific subset of organs to limited and sufficient stimulations to have a physiological effect while remaining within the specific safety zone of all the involved organs of the user.

Furthermore, unlike these devices or entirely rigid devices where the effort is made in a fixed and stiffened position, the flexibility of the stimulation device according to the invention, adjustable in certain modalities, can allow the user a slight movement of certain motor organs of the body to reach the desired level of effort, thus preventing the risks inherent in static efforts, potentially harmful to the joints and cartilage.

Compared to recent devices such as vibration platforms where the passive user undergoes an automated process, even if personalized, with a device of stimulation according to the invention, the user is active and applies the physiological efforts themselves according to their capacities and sensations. In case of necessity, discomfort or internal physiological signal, they can immediately stop their efforts and return to the initial resting situation, which is impossible with an automatic or semi-automatic machine, whether mechanical or electrical. With the stimulation device according to the invention, the user self-pilots and constantly controls the stimulation device according to the invention and their physical effort, therefore the stimulation applied to their organs.

The stimulation device according to the invention transmits efforts of progressively and continuously variable power, never allowing reaching the domain of shocks or frequencies harmful to the cartilage, as is the risk with vibration or impact devices.

Unlike conventional bodybuilding or rehabilitation devices where a fixed effort is chosen by means of a counterweight, the stimulation device according to the invention allows the user to vary his effort continuously in real time, taking into account his instantaneous state of fitness, sensitivity and health.

Unlike conventional bodybuilding or rehabilitation devices where all or part of the effort must be continued until the counterweight has returned to the starting position, the user can, by using the stimulation device according to the invention, stop his effort without delay and without latency, and without noticeable movement or with minimal movement, depending on the setting that he himself has defined for his own comfort and safety.

Unlike conventional muscle-building or rehabilitation devices, where the user starts from an extreme position, then goes through various intermediate positions before reaching another extreme terminal position opposite the first, which can lead to awkward or painful, or even dangerous, positions, the stimulation device according to the invention makes it possible to work in a specific position or in the immediate vicinity of this position, avoiding the risks and disadvantages linked to intermediate or extreme, painful or dangerous positions.

Unlike conventional devices which require specific and complex adjustments (manipulation of loads or counterweights with non-physiological positions, for example) or which cannot be used by people suffering from rheumatic conditions or various permanent disabilities or temporary (fracture, partial paralysis, sprain, amputation, etc.), the stimulation device according to the invention may include several morphological adjustment systems. It can be used by most users with a single adjustment of the height of the gripping or fixing means, in certain modalities. This adjustment can possibly be made in a seated position on a chair without having to lift a load for the adjustment.

Of course, it is possible to make many modifications to the invention without going beyond its scope.

Claims (15)

1. A device for stimulating certain organs of the body of a user in a standing or sitting position, characterized in that it comprises a platform (1), configured to be placed directly on the ground during use of the stimulation device, provided with feet and arranged so as to be able to support the user in a standing or sitting position, forces transmission means (3) linked to the platform and positioned between the platform and the user during use of the stimulation device, the forces transmission means comprising securing means (4) to the user, said securing means being symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the user during use of the stimulation device, wherein the forces transmission means (3) are rigid under tension.
2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the platform (1) supports or integrates a seat (2) placed on the platform.
3. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the seat is fixedly mounted to the platform.
4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the device comprises stimulation measurement systems (7a, 7b) and a system for visualizing the forces and their characteristics (8).
5. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the securing means for attachment to the user comprise a belt, or a harness, or a yoke, or handles, or wristbands, or straps, or any combination thereof.
6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the device comprises one or more adaptation or adjustment means (6, 9) fixed to or integrated on the transmission means or the securing means.
7. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises forces amplification systems (5) associated with the forces transmission means.
8. The device according to claim 7, characterized in that the forces amplification systems are actuable by mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic or other means, in particular a mechanical hoist, an electric actuator, a jack, or a pantograph.
9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the device comprises systems for monitoring the position or safety of the user, in particular regarding seating or back position, or in relation to the approach, attainment, or exceeding of a predefined forces threshold, or imbalance in the application of forces.
10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the device comprises a programmable automatic system for an exercise session.
11. The device according to claim 10, characterized in that the programmable automatic system is arranged to perform acquisition, processing, control, or visual, audio, or kinesthetic feedback of the data or the session programs.
12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it further comprises systems for remote connection, data processing and storage, arranged so as to allow in particular remote backup, updating, animation, control, management and/or supervision.
13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the device is arranged such that all or part of the device is modular.
14. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the device is arranged such that all or part of the device is easily disassembled.
15. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the device is arranged such that all or part of the device is foldable, in order to limit the space occupied when the device is not in use.