HK1077998B - Apparatuses for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, or osteoporosis - Google Patents

Abstract

Systems and methods for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, or osteoporosis. Systems and methods according to various embodiments of the invention include an oscillating platform for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions in a body. The oscillating platform supports a body. The oscillating platform includes an upper plate; a lower plate; a drive lever supported from the lower plate; a damping member in contact with the drive lever; and a distributing lever arm in contact with the upper plate. The drive lever actuates at a first predetermined frequency. Next, the damping member damps the actuation of the drive lever, creating an oscillating force at a second predetermined frequency. A portion of the oscillating force transfers from the damping member to the distributing lever arm. Then a portion of the oscillating force transfers from the distributing lever arm to the platform so that the body on the platform receives an oscillation at a frequency effective for treatment of damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions.

Description

Device for the therapeutic treatment of damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteopenia or osteoporosis

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to the field of stimulating tissue growth and healing, and more particularly to devices and methods for treating damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions.

Background

It takes time to recover when tissues in the human body, such as connective tissues, ligaments, bones, etc., are damaged. Some tissues, such as human fractures, require a relatively long period of time to heal. Typically, the fractured bones must be fixed, and then the bones are fixed in a cast, splint, or similar type of device. This type of treatment allows the natural healing process to begin. However, the healing process for a human fracture may take several weeks and vary depending on the location of the fracture, the age of the patient, the overall general health of the patient and other factors determined by the patient. Depending on the location of the fracture, the area of the fracture or even the patient may have to be immobilized to promote complete healing of the fracture. Immobilization of the patient and/or broken bones may reduce the number of physical activities that the patient can perform, which may have other adverse health consequences.

Osteopenia, a decrease in bone mass, can result from a decrease in muscle activity, which can be the result of bone fracture, bed rest, fracture fixation, joint reconstruction, arthritis, and the like. However, this result can be slowed, stopped and even reversed by reproducing some of the effects of using the muscles on the bone. This typically involves some application or simulation of the effect of mechanical stress on the bone.

Promoting bone growth is also important in the treatment of bone fractures and in the successful implantation of medical prostheses, such as those known as "artificial" hips, knees, spinal discs, and the like, where it is desirable to promote bone growth toward the surface of the prosthesis in order to stabilize and secure it.

A number of different techniques have been developed to reduce bone loss. For example, it has been suggested that: fractures are treated by applying voltage or current signals (e.g., U.S. patent nos. 4,105,017; 4,266,532; 4,266,533 or 4,315,503). It has also been proposed to use magnetic fields to stimulate healing of bone fractures (e.g., U.S. patent No. 3,890,935). The use of ultrasound to promote tissue growth has also been disclosed (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,530,360).

While many of the proposed techniques for applying or simulating mechanical loads on bone to promote bone growth involve the use of low frequency, high amplitude loads to the bone, it has been found that this is not necessary and may also be detrimental to the maintenance of the bone. For example, it is sometimes recommended that high impact loads, which require a high peak strain, can cause fractures, defeating the purpose of the treatment.

This is also known in the prior art: low level, high frequency stress can be applied to the treatment of bone and this will be beneficial in promoting bone growth. One technique for achieving this type of stress has been disclosed, for example, in U.S. patent nos. 5,103,806; 5,191,880, respectively; 5,273,028, respectively; 5,376,065, respectively; 5,997,490, respectively; and 5,234,975, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In this technique, the patient is supported by a platform capable of vertical vibration, such that the vibration of the platform, together with the acceleration caused by the patient's weight, provides a stress level in a frequency range sufficient to prevent or reduce bone loss and enhance new bone formation. The vertical movement of the platform between the positive and negative peaks of vibration may be as small as 2 mm.

However, these systems and related methods often rely on the placement of a plurality of springs supporting the platform, and it becomes very important to accurately position the patient on the platform. However, even a properly positioned patient standing naturally, some parts will exert a greater force on the platform than other parts, with the result that true vertical movement of the patient becomes difficult or impossible.

There remains a need in the art for a vibration table apparatus that is highly stable and relatively insensitive to positioning of the patient on the table, while providing small moving, high frequency mechanical loads to the bone tissue sufficient to promote healing and/or growth of damaged tissue, bone tissue, reduce or prevent osteopenia or osteoporosis, or other tissue disorders.

In addition, there remains a need for devices and methods for treating damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteoporosis, or other conditions of tissue.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention described herein meets the above-described needs. In particular, devices and methods according to various embodiments of the present invention are used to therapeutically treat damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions. Thus, the apparatus and method according to various embodiments of the present invention can be a vibrating platform apparatus that is highly stable and relatively insensitive to positioning of the patient on the platform while providing small movements, high frequency mechanical loads to the bone, muscle, tissue, etc., sufficient to promote healing and/or growth of bone tissue or to reduce, reverse, or prevent osteopenia or osteoporosis, or other tissue disorders. Note that: the platform according to the invention can be called a "vibration platform" or a "mechanical stress platform"

One aspect of the devices and methods according to various embodiments of the present invention focuses on a platform for therapeutic treatment of bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue disorders. The platform supports a body. The platform includes: an upper plate; a lower plate; a drive rod supported by the lower plate; a spring in contact with the driving lever; and a dispensing lever arm in contact with the upper plate. The drive rod is driven at a first predetermined frequency. Also, the dampening member establishes a vibratory force on the drive rod at a second predetermined frequency. A part of the vibrating force is transmitted to the distributing lever arm. Then, a part of the vibration force from the distribution lever arm is transmitted to the platform, so that the body on the platform receives the vibration.

A particular method for therapeutically treating tissue in a body having a mass includes supporting the body with a platform. The method includes pushing the platform at a first frequency and then vibrating the platform, creating a vibratory force having a second frequency that is combined with the resonant frequency of the mass of the body. Finally, the method includes distributing the vibratory force to a mass of the body on the platform.

Another particular method for therapeutically treating tissue in a body includes supporting a body having a mass on a platform. The platform includes: an upper plate; a lower plate; a drive rod supported by the lower plate; a damping member contacting the driving rod; and a dispensing lever arm in contact with the upper plate. The method also includes: pushing the driving rod according to a first preset frequency; a vibration damping member establishing a vibration force having a second predetermined frequency; transmitting a portion of the vibratory force from the dampening member to the dispensing lever arm; and distributing a portion of the vibratory force from the distribution lever arm to the platform such that the body on the platform receives the vibrations.

Providing a device for therapeutic treatment of tissue in a body; the device includes:

a platform configured to support a body, the platform comprising:

an upper plate; and

a lower plate;

a drive rod supported by the lower plate;

a pusher configured to push the drive rods associated with the upper and lower plates at a first predetermined frequency;

a damping member configured to establish a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency; and

a distribution lever arm configured to receive the vibratory force from the spring and transmit a portion of the vibratory force to the upper plate.

Objects, features and advantages of various apparatus and methods according to various embodiments of the present invention include:

1. can treat damaged tissue in the body, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue disorders;

2. can treat damaged tissue in the body, reduce or prevent osteopenia or osteoporosis;

3. can treat damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions in the body at a frequency effective to promote healing, growth, and/or regeneration of tissue or bone; and;

4. a device suitable for treating damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions in a body is provided.

Other objects, features and advantages of the various aspects and embodiments of the apparatus and method according to the present invention will become apparent from the remainder of this document.

Drawings

Figure 1 is a top view of a vibration table according to various embodiments of the invention, seen through the upper plate and showing the internal mechanisms of the table.

Fig. 2 is a sectional view taken along the side of line 1-1 in fig. 1, and a portion is cut away to show the parts of the attachment of the oscillating impeller to the drive rod.

Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the vibration platform shown in fig. 1, and a portion is cut away to show the internal mechanism of the platform.

Figure 4 is a top view of another vibration platform according to various embodiments of the present invention, as viewed through the upper plate and showing the internal mechanisms of the platform.

Fig. 5 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4, showing the vibration table in an upward position.

Fig. 6 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4, showing the vibration table at an intermediate position.

Fig. 7 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4, showing the vibration table in a downward position.

Fig. 8 is a side sectional view taken along line B-B in fig. 4.

Fig. 9 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4.

Fig. 10 is a rear sectional view taken along line C-C in fig. 4, showing the vibration table.

FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of another vibration table showing the internal mechanisms of the table, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of yet another vibration table showing the internal mechanisms of the table, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Devices and methods according to various embodiments of the present invention are used to treat damaged tissue, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions. Thus, apparatus and methods according to various embodiments of the present invention provide a vibrating platform apparatus that is highly stable and relatively sensitive to positioning of a patient on the platform while providing small movements, high frequency mechanical loads to bone tissue sufficient to promote healing and/or growth of damaged tissue, bone tissue, or to reduce, reverse, or prevent osteopenia and osteoporosis, and other tissue disorders.

Fig. 1 through 3 illustrate a vibration table according to various embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 1 shows a top view of a platform 100, the platform 100 being disposed within a housing 102. The platform 100 can also be referred to as a vibration platform or a mechanical stress platform. The housing 102 includes: an upper plate 104 (best seen in fig. 2 and 3), a lower plate 106, and a sidewall 108. Note that: the upper plate 104 is generally rectangular or square, and can otherwise be a geometric configuration for supporting a body in a vertical position atop the upper plate 104 or in other positions relative to the platform 100. Other configurations or structures can also be used to support a body in other vertical positions as described above or relative to the platform. Fig. 1 shows the platform 100 through the upper plate 104 so that the internal mechanism can be illustrated. The vibratory pusher 110 is mounted to the lower plate 106 by a vibrator mounting plate 112 and is connected to a drive rod 114 by one or more connectors 116.

The oscillating actuator 110 causes the drive rod 114 to rotate a fixed distance about a drive rod pivot point 118 on a drive rod mounting block 120. The vibration actuator 110 pushes the driving rod at a first predetermined frequency. The movement of the drive link 114 about the drive link pivot point 118 is dampened by a dampening member, such as a spring 122, best seen in fig. 2 and 3. The damping member or spring 122 establishes a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency. One end of spring 122 is connected to a spring mounting post 124 supported by a mounting block 126, while the other end of spring 122 is connected to a dispensing lever support platform 128. The dispensing lever support platform 128 is connected to the drive lever 114 by a connection plate 130. The dispensing lever support platform 128 supports a primary dispensing lever 132 that pivots about a primary dispensing lever pivot point 134, which may be formed by the surface of the primary dispensing lever 132 resting on the end of a notch 136 in a support 138 extending from the lower plate 106. The secondary dispensing lever 140 is connected to the primary dispensing lever 132 by a connection (linkage)142, which may be a simple interengaging slot. Secondary dispensing lever 132 pivots about pivot point 144 in a manner similar to that described above for primary dispensing lever 132.

The upper plate 104 is supported with a plurality of contact points 146, which can be adjustably secured to the lower edge of the upper plate 104, and which contact the upper surface of the primary distribution rod 132, the secondary distribution rod 140, or some combination thereof.

In operation, a patient (not shown) is positioned or standing on the upper plate 104, which is in turn supported by the primary and secondary dispensing bars 132, 140. When the device is operated, the vibratory pusher 110 moves up and down in a reciprocating motion, causing the drive rod 114 to vibrate about its pivot point 118 at a first predetermined frequency. The rigid connection between the drive rod 114 and the distribution rod support platform 128 is such that this vibration is damped by the force established or exerted by the spring 132, which can be driven as desired at a second predetermined frequency, which in some embodiments is its resonant frequency and/or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the resonant frequency. The vibratory movement is transmitted from the dispensing lever support platform 128 to the primary dispensing lever 132 and, thus, to the secondary dispensing lever 140. One or more of the primary distribution rods 132 and/or secondary distribution rods 140, against the contact points 146, distribute the motion imparted by the vibration to the free-floating upper plate 104. The vibratory motion is then transmitted to the patient supported by the upper plate, thus imparting a high frequency, small moving mechanical load to the patient's tissue, e.g., bone structure supported by the platform 100.

In this particular embodiment, the vibratory pusher 110 can be a piezoelectric or electromagnetic transducer configured to generate vibrations. Other conventional types of converters may be suitable for use in the present invention. For example, if a small range of movement is desired, such as on the order of 0.002 inches (0.05mm) or less, a piezoelectric transducer, a motor with a cam, or a hydraulically driven air cylinder can be employed. In addition, if a relatively large range of movement is desired, then an electromagnetic transducer can be employed. Suitable electromagnetic transducers, for example, such as cylindrically configured moving coil high performance linear movers, are available from BEI motion systems company, kimche Magnetic Division of San Marcos, California. Such an electromagnetic transducer can deliver a linear force without hysteresis, with 10-100Hz range coil excitation, and with as little or less than 0.8 inch (2mm) range for short stroke action.

Thus, the spring 122 can be a conventional type of spring configured to resonate at a predetermined frequency or resonant frequency. The resonant frequency of the spring can be determined by the following equation:

resonance frequency (Hz) ═ spring constant (k)/mass (lbs)]^1/2. For example, if the vibration table is designed to treat a person, then the springs 122 can be made to resonate at a frequency of approximately 30-36 Hz. If the vibration platform is designed to treat an animal, the projectileThe spring 122 can be made to resonate at frequencies higher than 120 Hz. In the described embodiment, a vibration table configured to vibrate at a frequency of approximately 30-36Hz uses compression springs having a spring constant (k) of approximately 9 pounds per inch (lbs.). In other configurations of the vibration platform, vibrations of similar range and frequency can be generated by one or more springs, or by other devices or mechanisms designed to establish or otherwise dampen a vibratory force to a desired range or frequency.

Fig. 2 is a sectional view taken along the side of line 1-1 in fig. 1, and is partially cut away to show the parts of the connection of the oscillating impeller 110 to the drive rod 114. Drive rod 114 includes an elongated slot 148 (shown in fig. 1 and 3) for receiving connector 116. The elongated slot 148 allows the vibratory pusher 110 to be selectively positioned along portions of the length of the drive rod 114. The connector 116 can be manually adjusted to the position of the oscillating actuator relative to the drive rod 114 and then adjusted again when the desired position of the oscillating actuator 110 is selected along the length of the elongated slot 148. By adjusting the position of the vibratory pusher 110, the vertical movement or movement of the drive rod 114 can be adjusted. For example, if the vibratory pusher 110 is positioned toward the drive rod pivot point 118, the vertical movement or displacement of the drive rod 114 at the opposite end proximate the spring 122 will be relatively greater than when the vibratory pusher 110 is positioned toward the spring. Conversely, when vibratory pusher 110 is positioned toward spring 122, then the vertical movement or displacement of drive rod 114 near the opposite end of spring 122 will be relatively smaller than when vibratory pusher 110 is positioned toward drive rod pivot point 118.

Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the vibration platform 100 shown in fig. 1, and a portion is cut away to show the internal mechanism of the platform 100. In this embodiment, as well as others, the invention is housed in a housing 102. The housing 102 can be made of any material having sufficient strength for the purposes described herein, for example, any material capable of bearing the weight of a patient on the upper plate. For example, suitable materials can be metals, such as steel, aluminum, iron, and the like; plastics such as polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, acrylic resin, polyolefin, and the like; or a composite; or a combination of any of these materials.

Also shown in this embodiment is a series of holes 150 machined through the upper plate 104 of the platform 100. The apertures 150 are arranged parallel to each of the primary distribution rod 132 and the secondary distribution rod 140. These holes 150 (also shown in fig. 1) provide different points for the connection or attachment of the contact points 146, thus changing the point at which these contact points contact the dispensing lever 132, 140, and thus the mounting of the actuation lever arm. And mechanical advantage used in driving the upper plate 104 for vibration.

Fig. 4-10 illustrate another vibration table according to various embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 4 is a top view of a platform 400, the platform 400 being placed in a housing 402. The platform 400 can also be referred to as a "vibration platform" or a "mechanical stress platform". The housing 402 includes: an upper plate 404 (best seen in fig. 5-9), a lower plate 406, and a sidewall 408. Note that: the upper plate 404 is generally rectangular or square, and can otherwise be a geometric configuration for supporting a body in a vertical position atop the upper plate 404 or in other positions relative to the platform. Other configurations or structures can also be used to support a body in other vertical positions as described above or relative to the platform. Fig. 4 shows the platform 400 through the upper plate 404 so that the internal mechanism can be illustrated. The vibratory pusher 410 is mounted to the lower plate 406. The vibration actuator 410 is an electromagnetic type actuator, which is composed of a fixed coil 412 and an armature 414. The vibratory pusher 410 is configured such that: when the stationary coil 412 is applied with a voltage, the armature 414 can be pushed with respect to the stationary coil 412. The stationary coil 412 is mounted to the lower plate 406 when the armature 414 is connected to the drive rod 416 by one or more connectors 418.

The oscillating actuator 410 causes the drive rod 416 to rotate a fixed distance about the drive rod pivot point 420 on the drive rod mounting block 422. The oscillating actuator pushes the drive rod 416 at a first predetermined frequency. The drive rod mounting block is mounted to lower plate 406. The movement of the drive lever 416 about the drive lever pivot point 420 is dampened by a dampening member, such as a spring 424, as best seen in fig. 5-8. The damping member or spring 424 establishes a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency, such as its resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic of the resonant frequency. The springs 424 are mounted about a shock absorbing member mounting post, such as spring mounting post 426. the spring mounting post 426 extends between a shock absorbing member mounting block, such as spring mounting block 428 and the upper plate 404. Spring mounting posts 426 are mounted to lower plate 406.

An aperture 430 near one end of the drive rod 416 allows a spring mounting post 426 to extend upward from a spring mounting block 428, through the drive rod 416, to the bottom edge of the upper plate 404. One end of spring 424 is attached to spring mounting block 428 and the other end of spring 424 is attached to rod bearing surface 432, which rod bearing surface 432 is mounted to the bottom edge of drive rod 416 and surrounds aperture 430 through drive rod 416. The rod bearing surface 430 is coupled to the drive rod 416 by a threaded connector 434 that fits within the bore 430. Thus, the spring 424 extends between the bottom edge of the drive rod 416 and the spring mounting block 428.

Cross bar 436 is mounted to the bottom edge of drive rod 416 with connector 438 and extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the length of drive rod 416. At each end of the crossbar 436, a side distribution bar 440 is mounted to the crossbar 436 at one end of each side distribution bar 440 with a connector 442. Each side distribution bar 440 then extends substantially perpendicular to the length of the cross bar 436 and substantially parallel to the side wall 408 of the platform 400. Each side distribution bar 440 rotates about a side distribution bar pivot point 444 located proximate the opposite end of the side distribution bar 440. A push rod 446, which is contiguous with the side dispensing lever pivot point 444 and extends substantially perpendicular to the side dispensing lever arm 440, carries the end of a notch 448 in a support 450 extending from the upper plate 404.

The upper plate 404 is supported by a plurality of contact points 452, the contact points 452 resulting from bearing contact between the upper surface of the push rod 446 and a portion of the recess 448 in the support 450.

A Printed Circuit Board (PCB)454 is mounted to the lower plate 406 by a connector 456. The PCB454 provides control circuitry and associated executable commands or instructions for operating the vibratory pusher 410.

An access panel 458 in the upper plate 404 provides maintenance access to the internal mechanisms of the platform 400.

In operation, a patient (not shown) is positioned or standing on the upper plate 404, which in turn is supported by the lift rods 446. When the device is operated, the oscillating actuator 410 moves up and down in a reciprocating motion, causing the drive rod 416 to oscillate about its pivot point 420 at a first predetermined frequency. The rigid connection between the drive rod 416 and the drive rod mounting block 422 allows this vibration to be damped by the force exerted by the spring 424, which can be driven at a second predetermined frequency, which in some embodiments is its resonant frequency, or a harmonic or sub-harmonic of the resonant frequency. The movement of the damping vibration is transmitted from the drive rod 416 to the cross rod 436 to the side distribution lever arm 440. One or more side distribution lever arms 440 distribute the motion imparted by the vibration to the free floating upper plate 404 by virtue of the push rod 446 and the contact point 452. The vibratory motion is then transmitted to the patient supported by the upper plate 404, thus imparting a high frequency, small moving mechanical load to the patient's tissue, e.g., the patient's bone structure supported by the platform 400.

It is necessary that high frequency, small moving mechanical loads be applied to the bone structure of the patient supported by the platform. To achieve this load, in some embodiments, the horizontal centerline distance between the dampening member or spring 424 and the drive rod pivot point 420 is approximately 12 inches (304.8 mm); and, the horizontal centerline distance between the oscillating impeller 410 and the drive rod pivot point 420 is approximately 3 inches (76.2 mm). The ratio of the distance from the shock absorbing member or spring 424 to the drive lever pivot point 420, and from the vibratory pusher 410 to the drive lever pivot point 420, may be about 4 to 1, and is also referred to as the drive ratio. Thus, in this embodiment, the horizontal centerline distance between the side distributor link pivot point 444 proximate the drive link pivot point 420 and the side distributor link pivot point 444 proximate the dampening member or spring 424 should be about 12 inches (304.8 mm); also, the horizontal centerline distance between each side dispensing lever pivot point 444 and the respective top bar may be approximately 3/4 inches (19 mm). In some embodiments, the ratio of the side dispensing lever pivot point 444 proximate the drive lever pivot point 420 to the side dispensing lever pivot point 444 proximate the spring 424, and the distance from each side dispensing lever pivot point 444 to the respective top bar may be about 16 to 1, and is also referred to as the lift ratio. In the illustrated and described configuration, the vibration table 400 provides a specific drive ratio and lift ratio. Other combinations of drive ratios and step-up ratios may be used with varying results in accordance with different embodiments of the invention.

Further, in this particular embodiment, the vibratory pusher 410 is an electromagnetic type pusher configured to push or generate vibrations, e.g., a combination coil and armature or solenoid. Other types of pushers may be suitable for use with the present invention. In the illustrated and described configuration, the vibratory pusher can be configured to push at approximately 30-36 Hz.

Accordingly, the dampening member or spring 424 can be a conventional type of spring configured to resonate at a range of predetermined frequencies. For example, if the vibration table is designed to treat a person, the shock absorbing members or springs can be made to resonate at a frequency of between approximately 30 and 36 Hz. If the vibration table is designed to treat a vertebral animal, the shock absorbing members or springs can be made to resonate in a frequency range of approximately between 30Hz and 120 Hz. In the illustrated arrangement, the dampening member or spring is a compression spring having a spring constant of approximately 9 pounds per inch (lbs.). In other configurations of the vibration platform, vibrations of similar range and frequency can be generated by one or more vibration-dampening members or springs, or by other devices or mechanisms designed to establish or otherwise dampen a vibratory force to a desired range or frequency.

Fig. 5-7 illustrate the platform 400 of fig. 4 in operation. Fig. 5 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4, showing the vibration table 400 in an upward position. Fig. 6 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4, showing the vibration table 400 at an intermediate position. Fig. 7 is a side sectional view taken along line a-a in fig. 4, showing the vibration table 400 in a downward position. In fig. 5-7, the internal mechanics of platform 400 are illustrated in operation with respect to a load (not shown) placed on upper plate 404. These views illustrate the relative positions of the drive rod 416, the side lever arm 440, and the spring 424 when different loads are placed on the upper plate 404.

As shown in fig. 5-7, the side distributor lever arms 440 respond to the respective loads on the upper plate 404 when a particular load is placed on the upper plate 404. In all examples, on the upper plate 404, the load establishes a downward force that is transmitted from the support 450 to the respective push rods 446, and further to the side-dispense lever arms 440, cross bar 436, and then to the drive rods 416 and springs 424. For example, in fig. 5, when a load weighing approximately 50 pounds (22.5 kilograms) is placed on the upper plate 404, the side dispensing lever arm 440 closest to and abutting the actuation lever pivot point 420 is moved downward toward the cross bar 436, and the side dispensing lever arm 440 closest to and abutting the spring 424 is moved downward from the cross bar 436. From the drive lever pivot point 420 with the spring 424 in the opposite extended position, the drive lever 416 moves generally upward.

In fig. 6, when a load weighing approximately 140 pounds (63 kilograms) is placed on the upper plate 404, the side dispensing lever arm 440 closest to and abutting the drive lever pivot point 420 is moved into a direction substantially parallel to the front side dispensing lever arm 440 closest to and abutting the spring 424. In comparison to fig. 5, the drive lever 416 is generally horizontally disposed from a drive lever pivot point 420 with a spring 424 in a relatively compressed position.

Finally, in fig. 7, when a relatively large load, on the order of 300 pounds (135 kilograms), is placed on the upper plate 404, the side lever arm 440 closest to and abutting the actuation lever pivot point 420 is moved downward toward the cross bar 436, and the side lever arm 440 closest to and abutting the spring 424 is moved downward from the cross bar 436. In comparison to fig. 5 and 6, the drive lever 416 is moved generally downward from the drive lever pivot point 420 with the spring 424 in the relatively compressed position.

Fig. 8 is a side sectional view of the platform 400 along line B-B in fig. 4. This view illustrates the position of the platform 400 when unloaded, and details of the relative positions of the upper plate 404, the side distribution lever arms 440, and the cross bar 404 when unloaded.

Fig. 9 is a side sectional view of the platform 400 along line a-a in fig. 4. This view further details the position of the platform 400 when unloaded, and the relative positions of the drive rod 416, cross bar 436, spring 424, and oscillating pusher 410 when unloaded.

Fig. 10 is a rear cross-sectional view of the platform 400 along line C-C in fig. 4, showing the position of the platform 400 when there is no load, and details of the relative positions of the drive rod 416, the oscillating mover 410, the cross bar 436, the side distribution lever arms 440, and the upper plate 404.

Fig. 11 is another vibration table 1100 according to various embodiments of the invention. In fig. 11, a cross-sectional view of the internal mechanisms of the shake table 1100 is shown. This embodiment is shown with a housing 1102, the housing 1102 including an upper plate 1104, a lower plate 1106, and a sidewall 1108. Note that: the upper plate 1104 is generally rectangular or square, and can otherwise be geometrically configured for supporting a body in a vertical position atop the upper plate 1104 or in other positions relative to the platform. Other configurations or structures can also be used to support a body in other vertical positions as described above or relative to the platform. The vibratory pusher 1110 is mounted to the lower plate 1106 by a vibrator mounting plate 1112 and is connected to a drive rod 1114 by one or more connectors (not shown).

The oscillating actuator 1110 causes the drive rod 1114 to rotate a fixed distance at a first predetermined frequency about the drive rod pivot point 1116 on the drive rod mounting block 1118. The movement of the drive link 1114 about the drive link pivot point 1116 is dampened by a dampening member, such as a spring 1120. The cantilever spring 1120 then establishes a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency, such as its resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic of the resonant frequency. One end of the cantilever spring is mounted to the spring mounting block 1122 and the other end of the cantilever spring 1120 is in contact with the drive rod 1114 or spring contact point 1124. The spring contact points 1124 may be extensions mounted to the underside of the drive rod 1114 and configured to contact the cantilever springs 1120.

One or more push rods 1126 extend from the side of the drive rod 1114. The roof rods 1126 engage respective notches 1128 in one or more corresponding supports 1130 mounted to the lower edge of the upper plate 1104. The free floating upper plate 1104 is supported between the top bar 1126 and the support 1130 by one or more contact points 1132.

A second predetermined frequency of the cantilever spring 1120, such as the resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic of the resonant frequency, can be tuned by the node 1134. The nodes 1134 are comprised of a double set of rollers 1136, roller mounting blocks 1138, connectors 1140 and outer protrusions (knobs) 1142. The cantilever spring 1120 is mounted between the sets of rollers 1136 such that the rollers 1136 can be positioned along the length of the cantilever spring 1120. The dual set of rollers 1136 are mounted to roller mounting blocks 1138 by connectors 1140. The position of the roller mount block 1138 can be adjusted along the length of the cantilever spring 1120 by an outer protrusion 1142 that slides along a track 1144 that is parallel to the length of the cantilever spring 1120.

The position of the node 1134 can be manually or automatically adjusted or, conversely, preset along the length of the cantilever spring 1120. When the node 1134 is adjusted to a particular position along the cantilever spring 1120, the node 1120 acts as a fixed point or fulcrum (fulrun) for the cantilever spring 1120 so that the resonant length of the cantilever spring 1120 can be set to a particular amount. Note that: the resonant length of the cantilever spring 1120 depends on the mass of the load placed on the upper plate 1104 and the mass of the ganged drive rod 1114 and cantilever spring 1120. Then, when the vibration pusher 1110 is pushed, the end of the cantilever spring 1120 which is in contact with the driving rod 1114 or the spring contact point 1124 can be resonated. For example, due to the fixed mass placed on the upper plate 1104, the resonant length of the cantilever spring 1120 becomes relatively small when the node 1134 is positioned toward the drive rod 1114 or spring contact point 1124. In addition, when the node 1134 is located toward the spring mounting block 1122, the resonant length of the cantilever spring 1120 becomes relatively large.

Fig. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of another vibration table 1200 showing the internal mechanisms of the table, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. This embodiment is shown in a view detailing another configuration of the internal mechanism of vibration table 1200 with cantilever springs at the sliding nodes. Other configurations or structures can also be used to perform the functions of the disclosed vibration platform.

Typically, an outer housing (not shown) covers the internal mechanism. The housing includes a lower plate 1202 or base. An upper plate (not shown) for supporting a body or mass is opposed to the lower plate 1202. An oscillating pusher (not shown), such as those disclosed in the previous embodiments, is mounted to the lower plate 1202 and contacts the drive rod 1204 in a manner similar to that shown in fig. 11. Typically, a drive rod 1204 is positioned adjacent to the upper plate, transmitting the vibrational movement from the drive rod to the upper plate, and then to the body supported by or in contact with the upper plate.

Node mounting block 1206 and servo stepper motor 1208 are mounted to lower plate 1202. The node mounting block 1206 and the servo stepping motor 1208 are connected to each other by a connector 1210. When adjusted, the node mounting blocks 1206 can be moved relative to the lower plate 1202 by a slot 1212 machined in the lower plate 1202. The node mounting block 1206 includes a first roller 1214 mounted to and extending from an upper portion of the node mounting block 1206.

A shock absorbing member such as a cantilever spring 1216 is mounted to the lower plate 1202 with a fixed mounting 1218. A cantilever spring 1216 extends from the fixed mounting 1218 toward the vicinity of the node mounting block 1206. A first roller 1214, mounted to node mounting block 1206, contacts the lower portion of extended cantilever spring 1216. As node mounting block 1206 is moved in slot 1212, first roller 1214 moves relative to cantilever spring 1216. Similar to the configuration shown in fig. 11, this type of configuration is referred to as a "sliding node". The sliding node type configuration causes the shock absorbing member, such as cantilever spring 1216 to change its frequency response when the node mounting block 1206 changes its position relative to the shock absorbing member, such as cantilever spring 1216.

As described above, the drive rod 1204 is mounted to or contacts the lower portion of the upper plate. The roller mount 1220 extends from a lower portion of the drive rod 1204 toward the cantilever spring 1216. The second roller 1222 is mounted to the roller mount 1220 and contacts the upper portion of the extended cantilever spring 1216.

In this configuration, the oscillating actuator (not shown) causes the drive rod 1204 to rotate a fixed distance about the drive rod pivot point (not shown) at a first predetermined frequency. The movement of the drive lever 1204 about the drive lever pivot point is dampened by a dampening member, such as a cantilever spring 1216. The cantilever spring 1216 then establishes a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency, such as its resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic of the resonant frequency.

The second predetermined frequency of the cantilever spring 1216 can be adjusted, such as the resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic of the resonant frequency, when the position of the node mounting block 1206 is changed relative to the cantilever spring, i.e., a sliding node configuration. The position of the node mounting block 1206 can be manually or automatically adjusted or, conversely, preset along the length of the shock absorbing member or cantilever spring 1216. Note that: the resonant length of the shock absorbing features, such as the cantilever spring 1216, is dependent on the mass of the load placed on the upper plate and the mass of the joint drive rod 1204 and cantilever spring 1216. The end of the cantilever spring 1216 that is in contact with the drive rod 1204 or spring contact point can then resonate when the vibratory pusher is pushed.

In the embodiment of the vibration table shown in fig. 11 and 12, and in other configurations in different embodiments according to the invention, the table (also referred to as a "vibration table" or "mechanical stress table") may be configured to allow different users to selectively adjust the table to compensate for the different masses of each user. For example, in a physical rehabilitation environment, patients or users with different masses may use the same vibration table. Each patient or user can set a vibration table suitable for the weight of the rehabilitating user on the upper plate so that: the vibration platform is capable of applying a desired resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic vibration force to the user when he or she is positioned or standing on the upper plate. An external protrusion may be provided on the vibration table to allow a user to selectively adjust the vibration table according to the user's weight.

In some embodiments, such as the one shown in fig. 11 and 12, the outer protrusion controls the position of the sliding node, effectively changing the resonant length of the dampening member, such as a cantilever spring. In further embodiments, the outer protrusion can control the position of the vibratory pusher relative to the drive rod. This type of configuration would allow the user to adjust the "effective length" of the drive rod and increase or decrease the vertical movement of the drive rod as desired. The "effective length" of the drive rod is the distance from the centerline of the oscillating impeller to the end of the drive rod closest to the dampening member or spring. For example, by adjusting the location of the vibrating pusher to the drive rod pivot point, the user can increase the "effective length" of the drive rod so that the corresponding vertical movement of the drive rod can be increased. Conversely, by adjusting the position of the vibrating pusher to the shock absorbing member or spring, the user may reduce the "effective length" of the drive rod so that the corresponding vertical movement of the drive rod can be reduced.

Thus, by adjusting the position of the vibration actuator to a predetermined position in accordance with the weight of the user, or by adjusting the position of the sliding node in accordance with the weight of the user, the vibration platform is able to provide healing vibrations in a particular resonant frequency or range of harmonics or sub-harmonics of the resonant frequency, which is optimal for promoting tissue or bone growth for different users having different weight ranges.

In other embodiments of the invention, the vibratory pusher may be configured in a single position. For example, in a home environment, only one patient may use the vibration table. To reduce the time required to set up and operate the vibratory platform, the vibratory pushers may be pre-positioned according to the weight of a particular patient. The patient can then use the vibrating platform without having to adjust the position of the vibrating pusher.

Finally, the embodiments disclosed above are also capable of accommodating the self-tuning feature. For example, when a user steps onto a vibration platform with an auto-tuning feature, the user's mass may be determined first. The vibration platform automatically adjusts various components of the vibration platform according to the user's mass such that: the vibration platform is capable of applying a desired resonant frequency or a harmonic or subharmonic vibration force to the user when he or she is positioned or standing on or otherwise supported by the vibration platform. In this manner, the vibration table, according to various embodiments of the present invention, is able to provide rehabilitation therapy without requiring manual adjustment of the vibration table to the mass of the user, and reduces the number of errors that the user may make in adjusting or manually adjusting the frequency of treatment required for the vibration table.

The above description includes many specifics that should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but merely as exemplifications of the disclosed embodiments. A person skilled in the art will envision other possible variations that fall within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (12)

1. A device for therapeutic treatment of tissue in a body, the device comprising:

a platform configured to support a body, the platform comprising:

an upper plate; and

a lower plate;

a drive rod supported by the lower plate;

a driving rod mounting block mounted to the lower plate and configured to support one end of the driving rod;

a drive lever pivot point, wherein the drive lever is configured to rotate about an axis relative to the drive lever mounting block;

a pusher configured to push the driving rod relative to the upper plate and the lower plate at a first predetermined frequency;

a damping member configured to generate a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency;

a shock-absorbing member mounting block mounted to the lower plate;

a shock absorbing member post mounted to the shock absorbing member mounting block and configured to concentrically receive the spring;

a damping member platform mounted to one end of the driving rod, wherein one end of the damping member is mounted to the damping member column and the other end of the damping member is mounted to the damping member platform such that the damping member damps the push of the driving rod when the driving rod pushes; and

a distribution lever arm configured to receive the vibratory force from the spring and transmit a portion of the vibratory force to the upper plate.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pusher comprises:

a coil mounted to the lower plate and configured to be applied with a voltage; and

an armature mounted to the drive rod and configured to be urged by the coil to which the voltage is applied.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the pusher comprises a transducer mounted between the lower plate and the drive rod, wherein the transducer is configured to push the drive rod.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the dispensing lever arm comprises:

a main distribution lever arm in contact with the upper plate and mounted to the lower plate while extending to the shock absorbing spring platform, wherein the main distribution lever arm is capable of receiving a portion of the vibratory force transmitted from the spring to the shock absorbing spring platform; and wherein the primary distribution lever arm is in substantial contact with the upper plate such that a portion of the vibratory force is transmitted from the primary distribution lever arm to the upper plate.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, further comprising:

a secondary distribution lever arm in contact with the upper plate and mounted to the lower plate while extending to a portion of the primary distribution lever arm, wherein the secondary distribution lever arm is capable of receiving vibrations transmitted from the primary distribution lever arm; and wherein the secondary distributor lever arm is in contact with the primary distributor lever arm such that the vibrations are further transmitted to the upper plate.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second predetermined frequency is between 30 and 36Hz for the body of the person supported on the upper plate.

7. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second predetermined frequency is between 30-120Hz for an animal supported on the upper plate.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the dampening member has a spring constant of 9 pounds per inch.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a distance from the shock absorbing member to the drive lever pivot point to a distance from the pusher to the drive lever pivot point is 4 to 1, and a ratio of a distance from the dispensing lever arm actuator to the drive lever pivot point to a distance from the lift pin to the drive lever pivot point is 16 to 1.

10. A device for therapeutic treatment of tissue in a body, the device comprising:

a platform configured to support a body, the platform comprising:

an upper plate; and

a lower plate;

a drive rod supported by the lower plate;

a pusher configured to push the driving rod relative to the upper plate and the lower plate at a first predetermined frequency;

a damping member configured to generate a vibratory force at a second predetermined frequency; and

a dispensing lever arm configured to receive the vibratory force from the spring and transmit a portion of the vibratory force to the upper plate, the dispensing lever arm comprising:

a support mounted to the upper plate;

a cross bar mounted to the drive bar and configured to transmit a portion of the vibratory force to the distribution bar arm;

wherein the distributing lever arm receives a part of the vibration force transmitted from the cross bar, and the distributing lever arm transmits a part of the vibration force to the support.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the dispensing lever arm is a side dispensing lever arm.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, further comprising:

a plurality of supports mounted to the upper plate; and

a plurality of corresponding side distributing lever arms that receive a portion of the vibratory force transmitted from the crossbar, wherein each side distributing lever arm transmits a portion of the vibratory force to each support.