Abstract:
A personal massage device is disclosed. The massage device includes a housing having an exterior surface defining first and second oppositely-disposed operative ends and an interior surface defining a cavity. Each of the operative ends includes a substantially smooth and continuous surface thereon. The massage device further includes a first motor disposed within the housing and adapted for creating vibration and a battery disposed within the housing and adapted to power the first motor.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/879440, filed on Jan. 9, 2007, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/334,987, filed on Feb. 1, 2006, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    The present invention relates generally to massagers and more particularly to rechargeable personal massagers, methods, and apparatuses. 
         [0003]    Personal vibrators, also known variously as vibrators, massagers, vibrating massagers and by numerous other names, are well-known in the art. They come in a variety of configurations and perform a variety of functions, ranging from medical therapy to erotic stimulation. They typically are battery-powered or run on conventional alternating current electricity. 
         [0004]    Vibrating massagers powered by internally contained, disposable batteries operate for a period of time on the battery power, subsequently requiring some degree of disassembly, battery replacement, and reassembly. It will be apparent to the reader that this type of battery operation has drawbacks, including for example, limited time of operation, the inconvenience, expense, and environmental impact associated with the necessary battery replacement, and the difficulty of creating a reliable waterproof seal around a user operated moving part such as a battery door. 
         [0005]    While some vibrating massagers operate on AC power, for example U.S. 110V or European 220V power, these massagers tend to be large and unsafe for internal use or use in damp environments. They also have the inconvenience of requiring proximity to a wall plug. 
         [0006]    More recently known in the art are rechargeable massagers. These massagers are generally connected to the charger using a cord and male plug connectable to a female jack in the massager. The metal connectors and their receptacles often collect unsanitary residue, are difficult to clean and are subject to corrosion. Further, such jacks are difficult to waterproof reliably. An alternative implementation of a rechargeable device uses external metal contacts for charging (such as a cordless phone, etc). Such devices rely on gravity to provide the force necessary to make the electrical connection. Further, such devices require care from the user to ensure proper alignment and contact. 
         [0007]    Many known personal massagers are made so as to be water proof or water resistant. It may be desirable to be able to use a vibrating massager in damp conditions; further, it is desirable to be able to use a vibrating massager fully submerged without fear of damaging the device or endangering the user. Some manufacturers waterproof their products (with varying degrees of success) with o-rings and similar seals around part breaks and user operated moving parts, such as battery doors, charging plug seals, etc. Often the resulting product is at best splash-proof, not submersible. It is desirable for users to be able to clean massagers thoroughly, particularly before and after they come in intimate contact with the body, which is made easier by providing a massager that is waterproof. To further ease of cleaning, some manufacturers use materials that are have a low porosity and, therefore, less likely to harbor bacteria or other contaminants. 
         [0008]    Rechargeable massagers generally use a built-in female plug, engageable with a male plug for recharging, that is difficult to waterproof. If water gets into the female plug, and the powered male plug is then inserted, it&#39;s possible that the charger will be short circuited by as little as a single droplet of water. This can harm the charger or the massager, and can potentially be hazardous for the user as well. 
         [0009]    Users often prefer massagers that are at or above body temperature, or can be warmed to this point. Many users warm massagers by holding them against less temperature-sensitive areas of the body, such as the hands, before using them on more sensitive areas. A few waterproof products on the market can be warmed by immersing them in hot water, but this can be inconvenient for the user. 
         [0010]    Each user&#39;s particular physiology and preferences are unique, so the more options presented for the use of the product the better. Most products available are designed to be used in only a single orientation (e.g., one end is used for massage, the opposite end is gripped in the hand) and only a fixed end is designed for contact with the body. 
         [0011]    As such drawbacks in the art are recognized such as to require improvements relating to safety, effectiveness, and/or waterproofing, personal massage devices and related features and devices are provided. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    For example, a personal massage device includes a housing having an exterior surface defining first and second oppositely-disposed operative ends and an interior surface defining a cavity. Each of the operative ends can include a substantially smooth and continuous surface thereon. Each end can be, for example, distal of a member with each end being operative and designed for use or physical interaction and the use of either end can be provided by, for example, gripping the opposing end. In such embodiments, each end can be configured for operative use in physical interaction and configured for gripping for application of the opposing end. The massage device can further include one or more motors such as a first motor disposed within the housing and adapted for creating vibration and a battery disposed within the housing and adapted to power the first motor. In some embodiments, the operative ends extend toward a central portion of the device such that the central portion is disposed between the first and second operative ends. Preferably, the central portion includes a substantially smooth and continuous surface thereon. Further preferably, the substantially and continuous surfaces of the first and second operative ends and the central portion occupy at least 90% of the exterior surface of the device, and more preferably, about 100% of the exterior surface of the device. 
         [0013]    In some preferred embodiments, the device further includes a second motor disposed within the housing and adapted for creating vibration. The first motor can be disposed near the first operative end, and the second motor can be disposed near the second operative end, The battery is further adapted to power the second motor. 
         [0014]    The housing can be formed from an inner layer including the interior surface and an outer layer including the exterior surface. The inner layer and the outer layer are preferably made of different materials. For example, the inner layer can be made from hard plastic and the outer layer can be formed from an elastomeric material. Preferably, the outer layer includes a first section adapted to cover a first portion of the inner layer and a second section adapted to cover a second portion of the inner layer. In such embodiments, the first section includes the first surface of the first operative end, and the second section includes the second surface of the second operative end. The first and second sections can, for example, include mutually-engaging ends so as to form the exterior surface such that the exterior surface is substantially continuous. Alternatively, the outer layer can further include an annular third section adapted to cover facing ends of the first and second sections, respectively, so as to substantially seal the exterior surface of the device. In some embodiments, the device can further include an electromechanical button adapted for receiving a control input for the device, wherein the operative end of the button is integrally formed in the exterior surface. 
         [0015]    A massage device can also be provided that includes a housing including an exterior surface and an interior surface defining a cavity, a first motor disposed within the housing and adapted for causing movement of the device, and a rechargeable battery disposed within the housing and adapted to power the first motor. The exterior surface is configured for physical application to a user and is seamless, whereby every surface is usable to provide an omnidirectional massage appliance. In various embodiments, the exterior surface can be substantially U-shaped, spherical, cubic, triangular, or other shapes. 
         [0016]    In a preferred embodiment, at least 90% of the exterior surface is substantially smooth and continuous. In a further preferred embodiment, approximately 100% of the exterior surface is substantially smooth and continuous. The exterior surface includes a belt or one or more flush mounted articles such as a contact for a charger. The exterior surfaces preferably comprise an elastomer. 
         [0017]    In a further preferred embodiment the battery is rechargeable and the device includes first and second contacts disposed on the exterior surface in electronic communication with the battery. Preferably, the external surface further defines a central portion disposed between the operative ends, and the contacts are disposed in the central portion. In an embodiment, the device is arched in a direction between the two operative ends so as to form an upper convex surface and a lower concave surface and so as to have an apex near the central portion, and the contacts are further disposed on the lower concave surface. 
         [0018]    A personal massage assembly can be provided. The assembly can include a massage device such as one having first and second operative ends disposed on opposite ends of a central portion, a motor disposed within the device and adapted to provide vibrating motion for the device, a rechargeable battery disposed within the device and adapted to provide power for the motor, and a first pair of contacts disposed on an external surface of the central portion and in electronic communication with the battery. The assembly can further include a base adapted for supporting the massage device thereon and having a second pair of electrical contacts disposed on an external surface thereof and arranged, for example, to abut the second pair of contacts when the massage device is supported by the base. The abutting of the first and second pairs of contacts provides an electrical current to the battery to charge the battery. The base can in clued a lid that, when placed in position, applies pressure to the massage device and/or keeps the device stable. Padding in the lid can provide the pressure. 
         [0019]    In an embodiment, the base includes an upper surface having a first depression and a second depression formed therein, wherein the first depression is shaped so as to mate with a portion of the first operative end, and wherein the second depression is shaped so as to mate with a portion of the second operative end. Preferably, the first and second operative ends have different shapes such that the base can support the device in only one orientation. The assembly can further include a lid adapted to attach to the base so as to hold the device in a supported relationship with the base. 
         [0020]    A still further aspect of the invention relates to a rechargeable personal massager assembly. The assembly includes a hand-held massager with at least a first electrical contact connected to a rechargeable battery disposed therein, a base comprising a transformer connected to at least a second electrical contact, a respective magnet in each of the hand-held unit and the base for securing the first electrical contact to the second electrical contact when the hand-held massager is placed on the base. The assembly can further include an additional magnet in the hand-held massager and a magnetically-operated switch in the base. In such an embodiment, when the hand-held massager is placed on the base, the additional magnet operates the switch such that power is supplied to the charging contacts in the base only when the massager is in place on the base. 
         [0021]    A still further aspect is the massager providing a self-contained massager entirely covered by a soft layer except for a relatively small portion for providing recharging contacts. The contacts may also be usable by being flush with the elastomer. The size of the contact area can be less than 1 cm 2  or more preferably less than 0.5 cm 2 . Alternatively, the massager can be completely covered by the soft layer, having no exposed charging contacts. In such an embodiment, charging can be carried out using induction. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
         [0022]    These and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from a consideration of the following non-limiting Detailed Description considered in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which: 
           [0023]      FIG. 1  is an exploded view of a massager in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0024]      FIG. 2  is an exploded view of a base for supporting and charging the massager of  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0025]      FIG. 3  is a block diagram illustrating the various electronic components of the massager of  FIG. 1 , with optional components indicated by a broken line; 
           [0026]      FIG. 4  is a schematic view of an electronic circuit used in the base of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0027]      FIGS. 5A ,  5 B,  5 C and  5 D are top, right side, front end and back end views of the massager of  FIG. 1  situated in the base of  FIG. 2 , respectively; 
           [0028]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the massager of  FIG. 1  situated in the base of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0029]      FIGS. 7A and 7B  are front and rear side perspective views of the massager of  FIG. 1 , including the electrical contacts for mating with electrical contacts on the base; 
           [0030]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the massager base of  FIG. 2 , including the electrical contacts for mating with the electrical contacts on the massager; 
           [0031]      FIGS. 9A and 9B  are perspective views of a massager according to another embodiment; 
           [0032]      FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a base for supporting and charging the massager of  FIG. 9  in accordance with another embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 11  is an exploded view of the massager of  FIG. 9 ; and 
           [0034]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the massager of  FIG. 9  situated in the base of  FIG. 10  with a cover therefor shown exploded therefrom. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0035]    With reference now to the figures, there is provided herein illustrative embodiments of rechargeable battery-powered vibrating massagers (e.g., massager  50 ) and charging bases (e.g., charging base  150 ), which for example have an improved structure for physical interaction and other/or functional and structural advantages and features. The massager  50  can be charged via two metal contacts  6 , 15  which are each substantially flush with the external surface  20  of the massager. In one embodiment (as shown in  FIGS. 9-12 ), the two charging contacts can be located in close proximity to one another, and protection from shorting is provided by physical interaction between features on the charging base and massager. In such an embodiment, the contacts can be positioned in close proximity to each other on almost any portion of the outside of the massager  50 , including on either end  64 , 68  thereof or near the central portion  66 . In another illustrated embodiment (shown in  FIGS. 1-8 ), the two charging contacts  6 , 15  are apart from each other, and, for example, one of the two contacts on the massager  50  is attracted in particular to one of two contacts on the base  150  through a pair of embedded magnets  7 , 105 . 
         [0036]    With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 3 , massager  50  consists of a plastic housing  21 , which can be hermetically sealed along the joint formed between the two halves  1 , 2  using, for example, ultrasonic welding. Two motors, one preferably large  10  and one preferably small  11  are included within housing  21 . Each motor  10 , 11 , as shown, can be fitted with an offset weight attached to its axle to generate vibration. The motors  10 , 11  are positioned at opposite ends of the housing  21  and preferably adjacent to or in a respective operative end, or lobe,  22 , 24  defined by the outside surface  20  of the massager  50 . As shown, a rechargeable battery, which can be a lithium ion battery  14 , is secured within housing  21  and is configured to provide power to motors  10 , 11 . If desired, a single motor can be implemented. 
         [0037]    A printed circuit board  16  can be provided within housing  17  in order to carry electronic control components for massager  50 . Such electronic control components preferably include a microprocessor or microcontroller ( FIG. 3 ,  302 ) (e.g., an ASIC), which can control operation, indicators, or other device functionality or operation (e.g., power or charge management), a pulse width modulator ( FIG. 3 ,  304 ) or other driver for one or motors (e.g., if a motor not requiring PWM is used), momentary switches or other types of switches for providing user control, LEDs ( FIG. 3 ,  306 ; such as, as shown beneath the surface of the buttons  3  in  FIG. 1 ), and additional supporting circuitry ( FIG. 3 ) such as battery charger  316 , charging contacts  318 , and/or other supporting circuitry. It will be understood that  FIG. 3  shows the electronic circuitry supported on printed circuit board  16  or otherwise within massager  50 , wherein additional components for a reed-switch embodiment are illustrated using dashed boxes. Circuitry  308  for the charging base includes for example charging contacts  312 , AC/DC converter  315  (e.g. external or external), a reed-switch  360  and related circuitry, such as a power protection circuit  362  (if implemented), and/or other supporting circuitry.  FIG. 4  illustrates, as an example, reed-switch related circuitry for a reed-switch embodiment for selectively charging the battery. Other implementations are also contemplated. Operation of and arrangements and implementations for the circuitry will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. Specifically, for example in connection with the circuitry, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art in the field of electronics. For example, in a non-reed switch embodiment involving two open contacts for charging, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand circuit design and arrangements for implementing a circuit to include such functionality in the present context. If desired, multiple internal batteries can be implemented. Further by way of example, embodiments can use other forms of charging arrangements such as using inductive charging or wireless power transmission. 
         [0038]    In the embodiment of massager  50  shown in  FIGS. 1-8 , electrical contact  6 , the associated magnet  7 , and O-ring seal  8 , together function as part of a first external electrical charging contact assembly. The metal collar of band  4 , 5  along with seals  19 , 29  together function as part of a second external electrical charging contact assembly. 
         [0039]    Magnet  18  interacts with and operates a reed switch in the base  150  described below with reference to  FIGS. 2-4 , so as to activate the charging function of base  150 . The result of the interaction between magnet  18  and the reed switch is such that charging is only permitted when the massager  50  is in the base  150 . Note if desired, the embodiment of  FIG. 1  can be implemented without a reed-switch and related circuitry or components (e.g. without a magnet) using, for example, the same contact arrangement. 
         [0040]    In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 1-8 , a soft outer layer  20 , comprised of a biocompatible material such as silicone or TPE, substantially covers housing  30 . Outer layer  20  can be overmolded onto the outside of the housing  21  after assembly of the housing with its internal components. The soft material covers the part breaks in the underlying plastic housing  21  to form substantially continuous portions on the exterior surface  17  of massager  50 , reinforcing the waterproof seal of the ultrasonic weld and making the product more hygienic, easier to clean and more comfortable for contact with and use on the skin. If desired, other configurations can be implemented such as to use a housing made of other materials or one which is not waterproof. 
         [0041]    Also in the illustrated embodiment, the metal band components  4 , 5  are assembled around a circumference of the housing  21 . The metal band provides an attractive surface for branding or personalization of the massager. It can also function as a contact for charging the battery  14 . A second metal part  6  at the tip of one end of the housing  21  serves as the second charging contact. Metal band  4 , 5  and secondary metal contact  6  also serve a function in the manufacturing process. To achieve a seamless overmolded skin for the outer layer  20  of massager  50 , which covers the housing  21 , it may be preferable to securely hold onto the underlying substrate material such that the substrate will not shift in the mold under the extreme pressures of the overmolding process. To achieve such a secure hold, a hard, moldable material with the appropriate properties can be provided. These external metal parts of massager are designed and positioned such that they can cover and provide a seal for the anchor points used during the overmolding process. 
         [0042]    Numerous alternative configurations are possible; for example, the massager can incorporate one or a plurality of different sources of vibration, such as rotational, solenoidal, piezoelectric, among others. Different methods can be used for the assembly or construction the massager. As discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 9-12 , the two halves  1 , 2  of the inner housing  21  can be attached together using screws, glue, or a combination of both as an alternative to ultrasonic welding. Additionally, the outer layer  20  can be formed as a separate part or a plurality of separate parts, for example two or three, as discussed below, and assembled to the massager after assembly of the internal components into the inner housing  21  and assembly of the two halves  1 , 2 . In such an embodiment, the parts of the outer layer  20  can be slid over the massager subassembly and secured in place with glue or using the metal band components  4 , 5 . Alternatively, massager  50  can be constructed without an outer layer. Further, other configurations or shapes for outer layer  20  can be provided, while maintaining the same underlying rigid form, to provide different aesthetic and functional variations of the massager. Additionally, alternative shapes can be formed in both housing  21  and outer layer  20 . 
         [0043]    Further variations of the massager are possible including the construction of the massager without cosmetic details, such as the metal band  4 , 5 . Additionally, the contacts can be located in various places on the massager, and can be used for various cosmetic effects. Other overmolding anchor points can be used. Similarly, anchor points can be concealed by means other than the metal contact parts, or other processes which do not require anchor points, such as casting, can be used instead of overmolding. 
         [0044]    Further, other embodiments of a massager are possible in which the motors provide a motion other than vibration. Such motions can include bending, twisting, rotating, contracting, expanding, etc. In such an embodiment, it can be preferable to form housing  21  from a pliable material or to include joints, such as hinges or the like, to facilitate such movement. 
         [0045]    In one embodiment, there are three buttons  3   a , 3   b , 3   c  on the massager  50  which provide control of the massage functions. Two of the buttons  3   a , 3   c  each control the speed of a respective motor. Button  3   a  controls motor  1 , and button  3   b  controls motor  10 . Button  3   b  changes the vibration mode or pattern. One exemplary implementation of the button functions is described herein below. It is understood that this is only one of many different possible operational implementations that can involve the use of these, fewer, or additional buttons. If desired, the massager can be configured to communicate to the user by using preprogrammed vibrations such as to briefly vibrate when the massager is turned on. 
         [0046]    With respect to the functions of button  3   a  in an exemplary embodiment, pressing button  3   a  when motor  11  is off will turn motor  11  on at low speed. Pressing button  3   a  again will speed up motor  11  to low-medium speed. Pressing button  3   a  again will speed up motor  11  to medium speed. Pressing button  3   a  again will speed up motor  11  to medium-high speed. Pressing button  3   a  again will speed up motor  11  to high speed, and, finally, pressing button  3   a  a sixth time will return motor  11  to the off state. It is understood that variations of this function are possible, including those with more or fewer speed increments. 
         [0047]    With respect to the functions of button  3   c , pressing button  3   c  when motor  10  is off will turn motor  10  on at low speed. Pressing Button  3   c  again will speed up motor  10  to low-medium speed. Pressing button  3   c  again will speed up motor  10  to a medium speed. Pressing button  3   c  again will speed up motor  10  to a medium-high speed. Pressing button  3   c  again will speed up motor  10  to a high speed, and, finally, pressing button  3   c  a sixth time will return motor  10  to the off state. 
         [0048]    With respect to the functions of button  3   b , pressing Button  3   b  will cause it to change to the next in a cycle of  6  vibration patterns incorporating both motor  11  and motor  10 . An example of such vibration patterns are described in International Patent Application Pub. No. WO2007089638, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. For instance, one mode can be such that each motor operates on a slow sine curve. The sine curves for both motors can have the same frequency, but can be 180 degrees out of phase from each other. Another mode can have one motor on a fast sine curve (twice the frequency of the slow one, for example) and the other motor on a slow sine curve. Working with wave forms that are harmonics of one another can improve the interactions of the two motors. Additionally, the power levels (the amplitudes of the wave forms) of the two motors can be adjusted to encourage interference, as is possible within the variation in motor speed control that is inherent in most motors. As described above, the individual speed control functions of buttons  3   a  and  3   c  allows for independent control of vibration motors  10 , 11 . This allows for a user to customize the interference pattern between the motors in addition to the predetermined patterns that are selectable with button  3   b . This can increase the likelihood that a user will be able to get the massager into a setting where there is desirable interference between the motors. 
         [0049]    Buttons  3   a , 3   b , 3   c  can also be used to implement a control-lock functionality. For example, pressing and holding any button  3   a , 3   b , 3   c  for 2 seconds can turn off both motors  10 , 11  and can put the massager  50  in an “off” state. Such action can further “lock” the controls such that, when the massager  50  is off, pressing any button  3   a , 3   b , 3   c  momentarily will not cause the motors to start, or the vibration pattern to change. Pressing and holding any button  3   a , 3   b , 3   c  for 2 seconds when it the massager  50  is off and the controls are “locked”, however, can turn massager  50  on again and cause it to resume function at whatever settings we being used when massager  50  was turned off. Additionally, the electronic circuitry can be used to automatically implement a “statndby” mode for massager  50  and to automatically turn massager off after predetermined periods of no use. For example, the circuitry can be configured to implement the standby mode after the device is on, but when both motors have been placed in the off state, for example by cycling through the various stages thereof using buttons  3   a  and  3   c . After, for example,  5  minutes in the statndby mode, the circuitry automatically turn massager into the off state, such that momentary pressing of a button  3   a , 3   b , 3   c  will cause no action, and only pressing or holding one of the buttons for more than 2 seconds, for example, will turn the massager on. 
         [0050]    One embodiment of a base  150  that can be used to charge massager  50  is shown in  FIGS. 2 and 4 . The base  150  consists of a plastic housing  130  comprising two housing portions  101 , 102 . Housing  130  encloses charging circuitry  103 - 111  that includes two metal charging contacts  103 , 104 . The circuitry can receive an electronic current from an external transformer  114  for converting external AC power into DC power of the appropriate characteristics. In a preferred embodiment, the circuitry is potted in place with epoxy to waterproof base  150 . The housing  130  is preferably made from a hard plastic material, but can be made of other functional or aesthetic materials such as fabric, ceramic, glass, metal, wood, and others. Additionally, the base can incorporate other functions such as cable management, a storage box, a lockable enclosure, etc. 
         [0051]    The base  150  has surfaces that support the massager  50  and guide it into a specific orientation which assists in establishing proper electrical contact between the two units. See  FIGS. 5 ,  6 ,  7  and  8  for various views of the assembled massager ( FIG. 7 ), base ( FIG. 8 ) and the massager and base engaged in a supporting, charging relationship ( FIGS. 5 and 6 ). A wide variety of alternative relative orientations between the base and the massager can be imagined. In the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-8 , massager  50  includes a magnet  7  and base  150  includes a magnet  107  arranged within the respective units to attract one another. The mutual attraction between the magnets assists the user in placing the massager into the charging base in the correct orientation, completing the connection with positive feedback to the user, and assists in holding the massager in good contact. When the massager  50  is placed on the base  150  in the proper position ( FIGS. 5 and 6 ), multiple charging elements interact to initiate the charging function. The contact portion  5  of the massager  50  engages, in a cradled relationship, collar contact  103  in the base  150 . Similarly, massager contact  6  engages charger contact  104 . An additional magnet pair can be included in the collar area of massager  50  and in the collar-contact area of base  150  to further the attachment and to further guide the massager  50  into the proper orientation on the base  150 . In a preferred embodiment, the magnets in the base  150  have a different polarity between each other, as to the magnets in the massager  50 , thus preventing the massager  50  from being placed on the base  150  in the wrong orientation. 
         [0052]    In “reed switch” embodiments, the magnet  18  in the massager  50  magnetically activates the reed switch included on printed circuit board  108  within the base  150 , whereby to apply charging power to electrical contacts  6  and  5  on the massager  50 . More particularly, when the massager  50  is placed on the base in the correct orientation, the magnet  18  in the massager  50  comes in close proximity with the reed switch  160  on PCB  108  in the charging base  150  and causes it to close, thereby completing the charging circuit and permitting the charging base  150  to apply the appropriate voltage to the massager  50  via the collar metal contact  103  and the end plug metal contact  104  on the charging base  150 , to charge the battery as described. It will be understood that any proximity sensing switch may be used for reed switch  160 , including other types of signals such as magnetic, radio frequency, electronic, or the like. 
         [0053]    LEDs can be included on the massager and can illuminate to indicate that the contacts in the massager and charging base have been successfully connected, and that charging is underway. Alternative or additional means of indicating the coupling or charging status can be implemented, including audio feedback such as beeping, tactile feedback such as vibration, or other forms of visual feedback than LEDs. 
         [0054]    The charging of the massager battery  14  by the base  150  is controlled by circuitry ( FIG. 3 :  308  and  FIG. 4 ) that optimizes charging time and battery life. The charging functionality in the preferred embodiment is optimized for the use of a single lithium-ion type battery  14 . It will be understood that other types of rechargeable batteries, such as nickel metal hydride (NiMH), could be used in the massager, and the charging functionality could be optimized for these types of batteries. 
         [0055]    The massager can for example react intelligently to its charging status, automatically performing certain functions upon the initiation and cessation of charging. For example, the circuitry ( FIG. 3 ) in the massager  50  can indicate its battery level (e.g. high charge, medium charge, low charge, or fully discharged) by flashing the LEDs in specific patterns. The circuitry ( FIG. 3 ) in the massager  50  controls the massager  50  can for example cease motor operation before the batteries are fully drained so that it can maintain other basic functions, such as radio frequency communication or indication of status via the illumination of LEDs. Further, for example, the circuitry ( FIGS. 3 and 4 ) in the massager and base operate together so the massager  50  cannot be turned on when in the charger  150 . If the massager  50  is vibrating when it is placed on the base  150 , the circuitry ( FIGS. 3 and 4 ) in the massager  50  and base  150  operate together so the massager is automatically shut off. Numerous means of communicating status to the user, means of reacting to a low battery status, fully charged status, successful or unsuccessful charging connection status, etc. have been described. Many alternative means of communicating or reacting to these functional states are apparent. 
         [0056]    Additionally, the operation of the massager  50  and the base  150  can cause warming of the massager  50 . These operations can include charging of the massager  50  on the base  50  or operation of the motors  10 , 11 . These processes are exothermic, which leads to the production of heat that is absorbed by housing  21  and outer layer  20  of massager  50 . The components that produce heat can be placed near surfaces that are desired to benefit from such warming. 
         [0057]    Alternative embodiments of a massager and a base are shown in  FIGS. 9-12 . Many aspects of both the external and internal components and functions are similar to the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-8  with the differences described herein. As shown in  FIG. 9 , massager  250  includes two contacts  205   a , 205   b  at the collar, rather than one at the collar ( FIG. 1 ,  5 ) and one ( FIG. 1 ,  6 ) at the end of the massager ( FIG. 1 ,  50 ). This eliminates the interruption at the end of the second portion  22  of the exterior surface  20  of the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-9  due to the charging contact  6 . Because the end of operative end  222  (and  22  in  FIG. 1 ) is a key functional area, elimination of a charging contact in this area improves the hygiene of the product. It also improves the tactile qualities of that end of the massager  250 . It further removes a discontuinity on the surface of the portion of outer layer  220  that covers operative end  222  of massager  250 . This large, useable surface of outer layer  220  compliments the continuous surface found on operative end  224  of massager  250  to increase the overall useability of the massager  250  in the sense that multiple surfaces can be comfortably and safely used on the body. 
         [0058]    In an exemplary embodiment, massager  250  is between about 150 cm and 200 cm in length and more preferably about 174 cm, although other lengths are possible. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, operative end  222  can have a width at its widest point between about 3 cm and 5 cm, and more preferably about 4 cm. Similarly operative end  224  can have a width at its widest point between about 2 cm and 4 cm and, more preferably, about 3 cm. Further, central portion  226  can, by way of example have a width at its narrowest point of between 2 cm and 3 cm, and more preferably about 2.2 cm. Other dimensions for massager  250  are possible. For example, the entire massager can be scaled within the given, exemplary ranges to form a larger or smaller massager. Further, alternative shape configurations are possible, including such that both operative ends are the same shape, such that the large end is narrower than the small end, such that the central portion is wider than the ends, or such that the device has a constant width. Further, many aspects of the embodiments described can be used in a massager that is substantially U-shaped, spherical, cubic, triangular, or the like. 
         [0059]    In the exemplary configuration described above, operative end  222  has a continuous surface of at least 100 cm 2 , preferably between about 120 cm 2  and 150 cm 2 , and more preferably about 130 cm 2 . Similarly, operative end  224  preferably has a continuous surface having an area of at least 10 cm 2 , preferably between about 20 cm 2  and 30 cm 2  and, more preferably of about 22 cm 2 . Other size ranges for continuous portions of the outside surface of variations of a massager having different shapes are possible. In a preferred embodiment, every surface of the massager can be a usable surface by having a soft layer such as an elastomer cover the surface except for a relatively small portion configured for the contacts that is preferably about 15 cm 2  or less, and more preferably about 10 cm 2  or less. The contact area can also be a usable surface by for example having flush mounted contacts. The respective sizes of the continuous surfaces can be scaled with the size of the massager, as discussed above or can otherwise vary in accordance with other possible configurations for the massager. In an embodiment, the entire outside surface of the massager is continuous. Dimensions and specifications provided herein are provided for illustrative purposes. 
         [0060]    The contoured outer surface  217  of massager  250 , as shown in the exemplary embodiment of  FIGS. 9A and 9B , can include the formation of an arch-like shape between the outermost ends of the massager  250 . This can result in the massager having an upper surface  292  having a convex shape and a lower surface  294  having a concave shape, wherein both shapes are defined along a vertical plane that bisects the massager  250  through both ends thereof. Both surfaces, among others present, can be used on the body to impart various sensations or the like. Further, such an arch-like shape can define an angle  290  between operative end  222  and operative end  224 . As shown in  FIG. 9B , the angle  290  can be further defined by an intersecting pair of lines, one of which is formed between the center of the endpoint of operative end  222  and the center of central portion  226 , and the other of which if formed between the endpoint of operative end  224  and the center of central portion  226 . Other methods of measurement are possible, including along the upper surface  292  or the lower surface  294 . Angle  290  is preferably between 90° and 180°, and is more preferably at least 120°. In an embodiment, angle is less than 160°, and more preferably about 135°, although other angles are possible. 
         [0061]    The massager  250  includes an outer layer  220  that is not overmolded. Instead, three sheaths  264 , 266 , 268  made from elastomeric material such as silicone, TPE or the like are molded separately, then assembled over the plastic substrate of housing  30 . Sheath  264  fits over operative end  224  of massager  250 , and sheath  268  fits over operative end  222 . The sheath  266  is an annular band which covers the collar area  226 , and overlaps both of the two other sheaths  264 , 268 , thereby helping to seal the unit. In an alternative embodiment, sheaths  264 , 268  can be arranged to overlap or abut each other in the collar area  226  and sheath  266  can be eliminated. In either embodiment, the sheaths  264 , 266 , 268  can be glued or otherwise affixed together or can be left unattached, the tension and interaction between the components providing an adequate seal for the massager  250 . In yet another embodiment, a single sheath can enclose the entire form. As shown in  FIG. 9 , sheath  266  can include a pair of holes  270   a , 270   b  to allow access between the interior of the housing  221  and the contacts  205   a , 205   b . The pressure of contacts  205   a , 205   b  against sheath  266  can be sufficient to maintain the water-resistant properties of massager  250 . Alternatively, the contacts can be insert-molded into the hard plastic housing  221 . Preferably, massager  250  is water resistant with an ISO rating of at least IPx 6, and more preferably, massager  250  is rated as fully submersible in water to a distance of at least about 1 m, for instance as specified in IPx6. 
         [0062]    The illustrated construction of the outer layer  220  allows for incorporation of the button  203   a , 203   b , 203   c  functionality into the outer layer  220  (shown as part of sheath  268 ). This eliminates three part breaks in the surface of the unit, which further increases the useable area for operative end  222  and increases the water-resistance of the unit and the overall hygiene of the unit. 
         [0063]    The embodiment of base  450  shown in  FIGS. 10 and 12  incorporates a physical shape to encourage proper charging, rather than the electronic and magnetic aspects of charger  150  shown in  FIGS. 2-8 . Base  450  includes an upper surface  401  that includes a pair of depressions  422 , 424  and a support  426 . As shown in  FIG. 12  depression  422  is sized to receive operative end  222  of massager  250 , and depression  424  is sized to receive operative end  224  of massager  250 . Support  426  is shaped so as to cradle the collar portion  226  of massager  250 . The interaction of support  426  is such that the upper surface thereof is angled to match the angle of the collar portion  226  when placed in the collar. Because the shape of upper surface  401  matches specific portions of massager  250 , massager  250  can only fit in the base  450  in the proper orientation for charging. Accordingly, because contacts  205   a , 205   b  cannot touch contacts  403   a , 403   b , the reed switch and magnets of the embodiment of  FIGS. 1-9  can be eliminated, which can provide a more robust unit. To prevent shorting between contacts  403   a , 403   b , which is a possibility due to the proximity therebetween, a ridge  470  is positioned between contacts  403   a , 403   b , which prevents a single conductive element, such as band  204  from shorting the contacts. A mating groove  280  can be formed in the massager  250  between contacts  205   a  and  205   b . Other configurations are possible for base  450  that promote correct charging orientation by shape interaction with massager  250 . For example, a base can be formed with a single depression that, for example, fits the profile of the lower half of the massager, with the charging contacts appropriately positioned for charging. Further, mechanical keying features are possible between the base and the massager in which a projection or the like extends from the base to interact with a depression or the like formed in the massager. 
         [0064]    Base  450  can further incorporate a lid  480  that can be assembled thereto when massager is held on base  450 . This provides for a closed container for massager  250  that improves the hygiene and discretion thereof during storage. Further, lid  480  can be arranged to hold massager  250  against base  450 , which is particularly useful during charging to ensure that proper contact is maintained. Lid  480  can further incorporate a locking feature to further enhance the privacy of the unit. 
         [0065]    It is to be understood that neither of the above-described embodiments is limiting, and that, accordingly, various aspects of the described embodiments can be interchanged to form additional embodiments. 
         [0066]    There have thus been provided new and improved methods and systems for charging a personal appliance such as a personal massager or vibrator that provide secure and safe charging. The described embodiment of the invention includes a hand-held massager  50 , 250  and a base  150 , 450 , the massager including a rechargeable battery along with vibrating and certain charging functions. The mating charging base houses certain cooperative charging functions. In one embodiment, when the massager and base are engaged in a supporting, charging physical relationship, magnets act to secure at least one of the electrical charging connections between the massager and the base. A reed switch can be included in the charging based that is magnetically operated by a magnet in the massager to enable electrical charging, which is otherwise safely disabled while the massager and base are separate, thereby preventing an electrical shock to a user. In another embodiment, an interrelated profiles between the massager and the base help to ensure proper orientation of the massager on the base to facilitate charging. The charging components can be integrated into the massager in a manner flush with the surface of the massager housing such that the massager surface is smooth and pleasant to the user, cleanable and thus hygienic, and waterproof. Optional skinning can be used to provide a comfortable outer surface, either by overmoldeding or additional assembly. Further, the placement of the electrical components provides tactile, pleasant warmth to the surface of the massager while it is in operation. 
         [0067]    The complete list of parts in the massager shown in  FIG. 1  is given below. The parts for the embodiment of the massager of  FIG. 9  can vary from the listed parts. The parts include: left substrate; right substrate; button plate; top half of metal collar; bottom half of metal collar; metal end plug contact; end plug magnet; end plug rubber o-ring; end plug internal contact; second motor; first motor; first motor mounting bracket; first motor mounting bracket screws; battery; collar internal contact; printed circuit board (PCB) supporting the electrical circuit components shown in  FIG. 3 ; outer layer; magnet; mono-directional moisture barrier, for example of Goretex™ material; and, collar rubber o-ring. 
         [0068]    The complete list of parts in the charging base shown in  FIG. 2  is given below. The parts included in the massager of  FIG. 11  can vary from the listed parts. The parts include: lid; top housing; bottom housing; collar metal contact; end plug metal contact; end plug contact magnet; foam cushion; weight; PCB supporting the electrical reed switch S 1  and other electrical circuit components shown in  FIG. 4 ; cord strain relief; rubber feet; screws; label; screw fasteners for securing the PCB; and Adapter for converting AC current to DC current to power the charging circuitry on the PCB, the adapter including a cord connected to cord strain relief. 
         [0069]    While the invention has been shown and described with respect to particular embodiments, it is not thus limited. Numerous modifications, changes and enhancements will now be apparent to the reader.