Abstract: The present invention relates to a foot massage apparatus having a flat hollow base body 1 of resilient material which is filled with a fluid and has a profiled top side. In accordance with the invention, the base body 1 is divided substantially perpendicular to its flat length into two adjacent chambers 2, 3 which enclose separate fluid containers 4, 5 and are connected integrally by a common stiff bottom 6.

Abstract: A massage device disclosed consists of a rigid flat base (30), which when configured with contoured modules (34, 36, 38) and rigid pressure nibs (10, 12, 14) or blades (20, 24, 26, 28) contours the length of an adult human body. The device operates by arranging the massage elements including buttocks, back, shoulder, and neck modules with pressure nibs or blades to match the contoured surface of the backside of person. The person then lies upward facing on the device with massage pressure applied across the entire body for the desired therapeutic effect. The device includes adjustments for body size and shape and therapeutic intensities according to pain relief requirements.

Abstract: A body and joints massage device having changeable massage heads to obtain selected stroking, rubbing and/or kneading massaging effects of all body parts including body joints. The body and joints massage device comprising a shaft housing engaging a main rotating shaft, the shaft housing being formed suitable to grip by a user and may be engaged with types of massage heads. One type includes actively rotating and actively self rotating massage elements each is equipped with passively rotating rollers for body stroking and rubbing massage effects. Another type includes actively rotating, flexible and/or extended massage elements each also performs an active reciprocal linear or arc movement for body and/or joints kneading massage effect. Yet another type includes actively rotating extended massage elements, each also performs an active reciprocal arc movement for body and joints massage.

Abstract: This invention discloses a back rest, including a body member formed with a back-facing side to face the back of a user, and a plurality of spaced projections projecting from the back-engageable face to engage the back of user at a plurality of discrete points, each of the projections being stiff, formed with a rounded outer surface to contact the user's back, and circumscribed by a relatively flat surface, such that the projections produce a Shiatsu local massaging effect on the user's back.

Abstract: A massaging apparatus has a capability of self-adjusting a massage strength for giving an optimum massaging effect for individual users. The apparatus includes a supporting frame on which a user rest and an applicator projecting from the supporting frame to be pressed against a user's body. The applicator is driven to move for applying a massaging force to the user's body. A pressure sensor is provided to monitor a pressure applied back to the applicator from the user's body as a counter-action of applying the massaging force to the user's body and to provide an output indicative of the monitored pressure. A strength-adjustor is included to vary a projecting amount of the applicator from the supporting frame and/or an operational speed of moving the applicator in order to adjust a massage strength applied to the user's body.

Abstract: Ring has serpentine connecting portions between parallel plates on which a plurality of protuberances are formed on the inner surfaces of the plates. The ring promotes the circulation of blood by accupressuring a finger by means of protuberances.

Abstract: A small hand-held device having a body of electrically insulating material, and a central rod of electrically conductive material provides for the rod extending beyond a proximal and a distal ends of the body to form electrical contacts. Therefore an electrical conduction path is set-up between the contacts. This path is advantageously used to establish a charge state on the skin surface so as to help in relieving localized pain. A pointed proximal end of the device enables an effective massaging action when the device is brought into contact with the skin and pressed into it.

Abstract: A massaging device is so arranged to allow a massaging member thereof to simultaneously perform a vibrating action and a kneading action on the same body part to be massaged, and not to require any increase in the size thereof. The present invention provides a vibrator-type massaging device including a casing and a vibrating plate provided on top of the casing so as to vibrate at a high speed. A massaging member is provided on the vibrating plate and includes a top surface serving as a contact surface for contact with a human body. A kneading means having a pair of kneading balls which swing in the same plane as that of the contact surface of the massaging member is provided inside the casing so as to knead a human body.

Abstract: A back scrubbing and massaging apparatus having a backing surface, a plurality of molded multi-fingered clusters extending outwardly from one side of the backing surface, a support bar affixed to an opposite side of the backing surface from the plurality of multi-fingered clusters, and at least one suction cup connected to the backing surface and extending outwardly from the opposite side. The support bar includes a first support bar extending longitudinally along and adjacent to a first edge of the backing surface and a second support bar extending longitudinally along and adjacent to an opposite edge of the backing surface. A first suction cup is affixed to one end of the first support bar. A second suction cup is affixed to an opposite end of the first support bar. A third suction cup is affixed to one end of the second support bar. A fourth suction cup is affixed to an opposite end of the second support bar.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing cardio-plumonary resuscitation with active reshaping of a patient's chest are disclosed. A piston positioned near a patient's sternum is intermittently activated to produce cycles of direct compression on the patient's heart while an annular collar is simultaneously placed securely around a patient's thoracic cavity to limit the circumferential changes in the thoracic cavity. The combination of the annular collar and piston combine to direct blood flow both by direct cardiac compression/decompression and by varying the intrathoracic cavity pressure. The annular collar can be formed by a single non-extensible membrane or by a non-extensible outer membrane and an extensible inner membrane with a bladder therebetween filled with a substantially non-compressible fluid.

Abstract: A massaging foot pad can be installed in a shoe or on a sandal. It includes resilient protrusions arranged on top of a sheet. The protrusions are elongated in a horizontal direction, and slanted in an orthogonal direction, so that they each include an upper side facing obliquely upwardly, and a lower side facing obliquely downwardly. In one embodiment the protrusions include a notch arranged on a lower side, and a large rounded tip. In another embodiment, the protrusions include a large rounded tip and a narrow base. In still another embodiment, the protrusions include a thin tip, a wide base, and a notch on the lower side. In yet another embodiment, the protrusions include a convex upper side and a convex lower side. In all embodiments, the protrusions easily bend in the direction of slanting when pressed by a foot during the downward movement of a walking step, so that they rub horizontally across the bottom of the foot.

Abstract: A manual personal massager (10) comprising a pair of handles (12) to be gripped by the hand (14) of a person (16). A web network grid (18) is provided. A facility (20) is for attaching opposite ends of the web network grid (18) to the pair of handles (12). A plurality of massaging members (22) are carried in the web network grid (18) to be applied to a body part (24) of a person (16) and moved back and forth by the movement of the pair of handles (12).

Abstract: A therapeutic cushion with detachable jade protrusions comprises a removable lattice of cylindrical members, an outer cover, and cushion fill. The removable lattice of cylindrical members are attached to a plurality of other cylindrical members in a uniform fashion by a plurality of threads which are interwoven through each member, forming a symmetrical lattice. The lattice is placed inside the outer cover and the plurality of cylindrical members are pressed through the plurality of apertures. The cushion fill is also placed inside the outer cover which presses against the lattice thereby maintaining the plurality of cylindrical members within said plurality of apertures. The outer cover is then sealed by a zipper to maintain the cushion fill and the lattice in place. The result is a cushion with a plurality of protrusions made of jade extending from the cushion, providing a massaging and therapeutic effect.

Abstract: A waste bin, having finger pressure members, which may be positioned under a table, with a finger pressure effect and having at least one drawer type waste receiving bin, includes a body plate having finger pressure members with multiple finger pressure protrusions formed on an inclined crook plate with a curved surface, with two finger pressure rolls; a guide rail formed on each of the left and right sides of insertion openings formed on a bottom surface of the body plate, and an insertion groove formed on a front side of the side protrusions; guide grooves having a trail roller which is directed by guide rails, and formed on both outer sides of the receiving bin; stoppers formed on the receiving bins; resilient means fixed on the rear side of each of the insertion openings; and two drawer type dust receiving bins adapted to be inserted to the insertion openings.

Abstract: A therapeutic device for being removably retained in a person's nostrils is generally U-shaped and includes a pair of opposing resilient arms insertable within the nostrils and soft spherical surfaces on the free ends of the arms for engaging opposing sides of the nasal septum.

Abstract: An acupressure device is disclosed for stimulating an LI-4 acupressure point located on the back side of a hand within the fleshy crotch between the thumb and index finger. The acupressure device is simple to use and enables accurate positioning over the LI-4 acupressure point and simultaneous stimulation of both hands.

Abstract: A massaging apparatus with a massaging mechanism comprises at least one pressing member for pressing against a specific location of a body portion, and an unit for moving the pressing member transversely across the specific location while the pressing member is pressed against the specific location. The massaging apparatus may further include a support body for pressing the body portion. At least one massaging opening is formed in the support body for alignment with the specific location of a body portion placed on the support body. The massaging mechanism is provided inside the support body so that an upper end of the pressing member is projecting outward through the massaging opening. When the body portion is placed on the support body, the specific location of the body portion is pressed and massaged by the pressing member while the pressing member is transversely moved.

Abstract: A physical therapeutic instrument for treatment of hemorrhoids is disclosed. The instrument treats existing hemorrhoids through a nonoperative method and prevents possible anal diseases. The instrument has a rectal insert having a shape agreeable to the anal anatomy of the human body. The rectal insert is carried on a carriage and is movably orthogonally received in a through hole of a seat of the instrument. The rectal insert is lifted and inserted into the rectum by a lifting unit and vibrated vertically and/or horizontally by a vibration unit. The rectal insert also heats the rectum at about 36.degree.-60.degree. C., thus providing a heating effect for the rectum. Insertion of the rectal insert into the rectum also pushes up drooping anal sphincter muscles, thus strengthening the anal muscles. The instrument thus maintains and strengthens active contractible motion of the anal muscles.

Abstract: Muscle treating devices for use by muscular therapists and patients include a clamp device having utility as a muscle treating device. It includes a probe attached to a preselected movable jaw that simulates a therapist's fingers or thumb. It further includes a quick release device and a pressure measuring device so that a therapist can record pressures at which a patient reports discomfort. Additional muscle treating devices treat the cervical, thoraic, and lumbar regions of the back. Each of these devices includes a flat, rigid base and a support member disposed normal to the base having a groove formed in its peripheral edge for receiving neck vertabrae, the thoracic spine, and the lumbar spine, respectively. A combination device combines the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar devices into a single unit so that all of the muscles flanking the spinal column are treated simultaneously.

Abstract: A massaging machine which uses a plurality of spring-loaded metal fingers which move vertically up and down the back of an individual sitting in a chair. A relatively large portion of the back is involved and the action simulates that of a skilled masseur thus providing relief from stress and pain.

Abstract: A CPR device comprised of a hollow upper T-shaped housing. A hollow lower housing is coupled with the upper T-shaped housing. A plunging mechanism extends downwardly through the upper T-shaped housing and outwardly of the lower housing. An end portion of the plunging mechanism has a plunger secured thereto.

Abstract: A seat cushion having a flexible substrate and pads. The flexible substrate has first and second pads in a spaced-apart relationship, forming a hinge of the substrate therebetween. The flexible substrate may be moved from an open lay-flat position to a closed position in which said pads are in a face-to-face relationship. The pads are formed of a comfort-compressible rubber composition and have a pattern of projections thereon in a spaced-apart relationship. The pattern includes a concentric array of projections extending substantially across the width of each of such pads. The rubber composition has a non-porous surface, and the flexible substrate and pads are washable. The seat cushion is particularly useful in saunas and steam baths.

Abstract: A treatment and stimulation device provided as a compact, portable unit having an applicator capable of horizontal and vertical movements for manipulation of the skin and underlying tissue under electronic circuit control. In a preferred embodiment, the applicator is provided with reversible rotation directed against the skin to provide horizontal movement having uneven angles of deflection, and vertical up/down movement is supplied by a solenoid. By virtue of the electronic control, these movements are continuously variable, and can be integrated and finely controlled, to produce any desired physical stimulation effect on the skin and tissue, for medical or cosmetic purposes. The different kinds of receptors in the skin and tissue can be selectively activated, since they are frequency dependent and direction-force dependent.

Abstract: A roller assembly for a massaging device is composed of a shaft, a plurality of roller sleeves, and a locating plug. The shaft is provided in the hollow end thereof with a plurality of retaining ribs and is further provided at another end thereof with two lugs and a ratchet located between two lugs for holding a resilient cord. The roller sleeves are fitted rotatably over the shaft and are provided respectively on the outer wall surface thereof with a plurality of massaging protuberances. The locating plug is provided in the outer wall surface of one end thereof with a plurality of retaining slots engageable securely with the retaining ribs of the shaft. The locating plug is further provided at another end thereof with two lugs and a ratchet located between the two lugs for holding securely a resilient cord. The locating plug is secured at one end thereof to the hollow end of the shaft for locating the roller sleeves which are fitted over the shaft.

Abstract: A heart massager for substernal heart massage is disclosed. The heart massager has a heart-contacting member having a surface which is at least partially concave for contacting the heart, cushioning on the surface of the contact member, and a handle attached to the heart-contacting member for manually manipulating the massager. The partially concave surface allows the heart-contacting member to conform to the shape of the heart. The handle is substantially upright with respect to the surface of the heart-contacting member. The handle is significantly offset from a central portion of the heart-contacting member in the region where it attaches to the member. The cushioning covers substantially the entire surface of the heart-contacting member so as to form a solid surface.

Abstract: A housing having an inclined surface and a pair of footrests is provided. A plurality of impact rods are disposed in perpendicular to the inclined surface and axially slidably mounted in the housing. An impact head is secured to a top of each of the impact rods. A reciprocating device is provided for reciprocating the impact rods so as to impact a sole of a user mounted on the footrest. A reciprocating device and a drive motor for actuating the reciprocating device are disposed in a mass block that is suspended from the housing.

Abstract: A flexible strand is provided with pressure applying nodules spaced therealong so that the strand may be looped around various deeper body muscle groups to apply pressure to the muscle groups and relieve muscle pain. An optional bar may be also used, either by itself, or with the flexible strand, to apply pressure to muscles which are close to the surface of the body.

Abstract: An apparatus for self administration of acupressure that comprises a surface for supporting the individual. A pressure arm supported above the surface moves between a first position displaced from the individual and a second position where pressure probes apply acupressure. The position of an actuation arm supported below the surface is controlled by the individual and is linked to the pressure arm. This enables the individual to control the magnitude and duration of force applied through the pressure arm and pressure probes. The individual can operate another linkage to position the pressure probes relative to the pressure arm and along the individuals' spine.

Abstract: A multipurpose bottle and cap combination comprises a bottle for containing a fluid, a neck with an opening through which the fluid may flow, and a bottom. A cap is secured to the neck of the bottle by threaded engagement and controls the flow of the fluid through the cap. A first massaging device is also provided. This device comprises a pair of identical parts, each part having a plurality of curved surfaces terminating in a tip. The massage device also has an internal bore containing a herbal medicine filled fiber.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for assisting a rescuer to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (C.P.R.) on a patient, having a housing that rests on the patient's chest so that chest compression forces are applied through the apparatus. The apparatus monitors compression force, the rate of compressions, and blood flow and actively provides this information to the rescuer so that the rescuer can be assured that C.P.R. is being properly administered.

Abstract: A massage device for the soles of the feet is provided. The device includes a number of units releasably connected together to form a long track which allows people to walk thereon and have the soles of their feet massaged by pebble-like projections formed on each of the units. Each unit includes a rectangular, flat, hollow body defining a sealed interior space inflated by air. The flat body has an upper surface having a plurality of different-sized pebble-like projections distributed uniformly thereon. The hollow body is preferably made of a resilient and slightly inflatable material so that by being inflated, the interior pressure is adjusted to provide an adjustable rigidity of the body. With the resilience and the adjustable rigidity provided by the interior pressure, the pebble-like projections are allowed to deflect and deform when stepped on by people, to comply with the shape of the soles of the feet, so as to avoid damaging the soles.

Abstract: A belt for providing individual pressure points in a user's lower back region in order to alleviate back pain. The belt is secured about the waist and includes a main panel positioned against the lower back region. The main panel includes several apertures corresponding to possible points of therapy. Threaded pins are inserted into the apertures corresponding to a point in the lower back where pain is being experienced. The pins are rotated through the main panel into the lower back thus providing pressure to the point of interest in the lower back. The pressure can be adjusted by rotation of the pin as desired.

Abstract: A stimulator for use in marital orgasmic and sexual therapy for performing a simulation of cunnilingus is provided. The stimulator has an elongated cylindrical housing, simulated lips, a simulated tongue and is battery powered. The tongue is caused to move in and out with respect to the simulated lips; up and down; and side to side. These motions are attainable independently of the others. Three motors, separate switches, and three sets of cooperating but independent linkage are provided to accomplish this motion arrangement. A finger operated plunger type dispenser integral to the housing dispenses lubricant, medication, or other fluid onto the simulated tongue.

Abstract: The invention is a sensor in a system for massaging a portion of a body of a person. The system includes a frame and a body supporting surface mounted on the frame. An applicator is also supported by the frame proximate to the body supporting surface in order to apply a force to the body portion. A sensor for sensing the applied force and providing a control signal in response to the sensed force is provided between the frame and the applicator. A control device moves the applicator with respect to the body portion in response to the control signal from the sensor. The sensor is provided with a sensor surface and a position determining device for determining the position of the sensor surface. The sensor then provides a control signal in response to the determined position. Another sensor surface, spaced apart from the first sensor surface by resilient material, may also be provided. The control signal is then determined according to the distance between the first and second sensor surfaces.

Abstract: An anticellulitis massaging device comprising a plurality of massaging elements or fingers (11) located within a body member or casing (10) and susceptible of axial percussion movements and oscillating and/or rotating movements, which are controlled by a motor assembly (12,12a) and via cam actuating means (15a,25a).

Abstract: A massaging machine includes a motor-driven hollow shaft including two ends each defining a slot. A shaft which includes a right-hand thread and a left-hand thread is insertable through the hollow shaft. A first distance-adjusting member includes a T-flange on an external surface and includes a right-hand thread on an internal surface for engaging with the right-hand thread on the shaft. A second distance-adjusting member includes a T-flange on an external surface and includes a left-hand thread on an internal surface for engaging with the left-hand thread on the shaft. Two cylinders each include an inclined face at an end and defines a T-slot in an internal surface for engaging with one of the T-flanges. Two sleeves are each insertable in one of the cylinders and are each mountable on one of the ends of the hollow shaft so that the T-flange of each sleeve is slidably received in one of the slots of the hollow shaft. Two wheels are each mounted by means of bearing on one of the sleeves.

Abstract: A body of limited compressibility, and uniform thickness, defines a support for the posterior of an exerciser during sit-ups, stomach exercises, and the like. A void in the body nestably receives the coccyx area of the exerciser. The body further has an extended member for supporting the exerciser's back, and an elongate void formed in the member comfortably receives the spinal length of the exerciser. Nodules line the edges of the elongate void; these repeatedly knead spine-attached muscles as the exerciser works, supine, on the body.

Abstract: Mattresses and cushions, which have a rolling-massaging function and magnetic-therapeutic effect are described. The rolling-massaging magnetic-therapeutic mattress or cushion comprises an upper covering, an intermediate layer, an interior layer, a compound liner and a bottom covering. Between the upper covering and the intermediate layer there is provided a magnetic-therapeutic massaging layer including balls, magnetics beads, element frames and a locating substrate. The balls and magnetic beads are contained in subcavities of the element frames, rolling omni-directionally.

Abstract: An acupressure glove includes upper and lower skins which closely adhere to the back and palm of a hand, respectively, when worn by a user, the skins defining a cavity therebetween for receiving a hand; a plurality of receiving holes in the upper and lower skins; a plurality of hollow acupressure protuberances for applying acupressure to the hand, the protuberances being positioned within the cavity in association with selected receiving holes, each acupressure protuberance including a flat sheet portion which lies against the inner surface of one skin, a narrow neck portion extending toward the other skin from the flat sheet portion and a bulbous portion extending toward the other skin from the narrow neck portion, the narrow neck portion and the bulbous portion being hollow and the flat sheet portion having an opening which opens into the narrow neck portion; and a plurality of securing protuberances extending into the receiving holes and engaged within the plurality of hollow acupressure protuberances, res

Abstract: A massage steering wheel cover including a rubber ring, a plurality of massage members secured on the rubber ring and having a recess and a convex portion at both sides of the recess, the convex portion being adapted to the rubber ring to form an air chamber therebetween, the recess being provided with a plurality of round-headed protuberances, the convex portion being formed with a plurality of protuberances and a plurality of perforations, a plurality of magnets fitted into a certain number of the protuberances of the massage member, and a plurality of leather members secured on the rubber ring.

Abstract: A colorful massaging ball structure having an upper and lower hemisphere is provided. A magnetic rod is provided within the center of the enclosure of the hemispheres to add to the therapeutic effects of the device. Along the surface of the hemisphere, a plurality of arch-shaped slide rails are provided having movable massaging element engaged thereon. The movable elements can be slidably moved along the slide rails. A plurality of protrusions on each movable element provides a stimulation of the vital points of the user's fingers.

Abstract: A device for massaging a body part comprises a plurality of massaging protuberances of various shapes that are attached securely to the inside of a garment. When a person wearing the massage garment sits on a chair or on a bed or couch, the body of the person presses against the massaging protuberances. The resisting force of pressed protuberances works to stimulate the circulatory system and to make muscles or joint supple, so as to relieve pain and tension of the person wearing the massage garment.

Abstract: This invention relates to a finger acupuncture needle puncturing position indicating apparatus in which a code reference book of symptoms (103) describing in detail symptoms of affected regions of a human body is attached to a side of the interior surface of a cover (503) on which human body anatomical charts (101) showing proper code numbers for each region are also mounted; underneath the book is a needle box (403) with a door (402) capable of storing a number of needles (401); displayed on a lighted display panel (102) mounted on the body (502) of a case are the palm and back of a hand indicating needle-puncturing positions; and mounted on one side of the body (502) of the case are a keyboard (201) with a number of keys for inputting code numbers from the human body anatomical charts (101) and the code reference book of symptoms (103) as well as a display button (202) for outputting these codes.

Abstract: A set of tools for use by a trainer in performing soft tissue massage, wherein each tool includes a handle portion and a skin engagement portion that is configured to generally match the contour of the impaired area of soft tissue to be treated. The skin engagement portion includes an edge surface that noninvasively engages the skin to allow the user to locate fibrous adhesions that are attached to the underlying soft tissue areas. A first tool is selected having a bevelled edge for breaking up the scar tissue, whereafter a second tool may then be selected having a blade edge for pulling the broken up scar tissue away from the affected soft tissue area. The soft tissue area is then stretched as much as possible and the treatment repeated until all of the scar tissue has been removed from the soft tissue area.

Abstract: A method of stimulation of a body surface with application of a fluid matter pressure over a part of the body surface, a mechanical pressure on local points of the body surface, and a temperature change of the part of the body surface, the method comprises the steps of applying a negative fluid matter pressure over the whole part of the body surface; increasing the mechanical pressure on the local points distributed over the whole part of the body surface simultaneously with the applying the negative fluid matter pressure; cooling the part of the body surface simultaneously with the applying the negative fluid matter pressure and increasing the mechanical pressure on the local points; maintaining said negative fluid matter pressure, said increased mechanical pressure on the local points and said cooling over a preset period of time; then raising the pressure of the fluid matter over the whole part of the body surface; reducing the mechanical pressure on the local points of the part of the body surface simulta

Abstract: A portable vibration finger pressure massager provides finger pressure massage to a body part of the user through the turning motion of massaging balls when the motor rotates in a first direction and simultaneously provides vibration and finger pressure massage when the motor rotates in an opposite direction. A weight change structure is attached to the rear shaft of the motor and becomes unbalanced when the motor rotates in the opposite direction, thereby causing the motor to vibrate. The vibration of the motor is transferred to projections provided on the massager thereby enabling the provision of vibration massage.

Abstract: A hand massager includes a top shell having two upright tubes on the inside and raised portions on the outside, a bottom shell having two upright posts on the inside made to slide in the upright tubes and raised portions on the outside, a pin set retained between the top and bottom shells and supported between springs and having pins aligned with pin holes on the bottom shell, wherein the pins of the pin set project out of the pin holes on the bottom shell to stimulate the acupuncture points in the hand as the user grips the hand massager in the hand.

Abstract: A manual assist apparatus and method for obtaining hemostasis of a wound on luminal tissue, such as a femoral artery puncture, after a cannulated procedure such as angioplasty. This apparatus has a substantially cylindrically shaped handle with a rod extending downward into a sterile disposable disk member. The disk member is placed just above the catheter insertion site with catheter inside a notch of the disk member for proper pressure point for compression of artery, as the catheter is inside of the artery. The catheter is then removed from artery and pressure applied to the handle in downward direction to force the disk member to compress the artery for the purpose of controlling arterial bleeding and to obtain hemostasis. The weight of the cylindrically shaped handle assists the practitioner with above mentioned compression task. The disk member may then be discarded after use.

Abstract: The instant invention concerns a molded insole for slippers or mules, with clusters of bristles for the massage of the sole of the foot. In more detail, each group of bristles juts out from the bottom of a containing recess on the insole, in such a way that only the end part of each bristle juts upwards with respect to the the surface defined by the flat areas connecting the series of recesses.