Shock wave generator with bendable handpiece

Abstract

The present disclosure is conceived in response to the aforementioned background art and aims to provide a shock wave generator comprising a bendable handpiece. The shock wave generator is a shock wave generator that generates a shock wave and may include a control unit that controls the process of the shock wave generator generating the shock wave; and a handpiece that outputs the shock wave to the outside. In one embodiment, the handpiece may include a handle portion; a transducer portion connected to the handle portion; and a connecting portion located between the handle portion and the transducer portion. Furthermore, the handle portion and the transducer portion may be connected through the connecting portion such that the handle portion can rotate within a predetermined angle range with respect to the transducer portion with respect to the connecting portion.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to medical devices, specifically to extracorporeal shockwave generators. This project (result) is the result of the Local Government-University Cooperation-based Regional Innovation Project conducted in 2023 with funding from the Ministry of Education and support from the National Research Foundation of Korea. (2021RIS-001) Background Technology

[0002] Extracorporeal Shock-Wave Therapy is a medical device used to relieve physical pain.

[0003] Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is a device that uses shockwaves to treat painful areas, urinary stones, and other conditions; it is a state-of-the-art medical device that provides rapid therapeutic effects with a short procedure time.

[0004] Shock waves can have characteristics almost identical to ultrasound. Ultrasonic energy generated from a single point can be focused to a single point using a reflector, or by arranging ultrasound generators such as PIEZO in a spherical shape to focus to a single point, or by fabricating ultrasound generators such as PIEZO in a spherical shape to focus to a single point. As the shock waves generated in this way are concentrated on the area requiring treatment, mechanical stimulation is applied within the body, thereby stimulating the release of factors related to angiogenesis, promoting the proliferation of new blood vessels for the healing of tendons and bones, improving blood supply, and increasing blood flow. This promotes the remodeling of blood vessels or the formation of new blood vessels, which is effective for pain relief.

[0005] Generally, an extracorporeal shockwave therapy device consists of a main unit responsible for the overall control of the device and a handpiece connected to the main unit that delivers actual physical shockwaves to the patient.

[0006] The treatment process of an extracorporeal shockwave generator may include applying a gel or similar material to the treatment site, bringing a part of the handpiece into contact with the treatment site, and applying shockwaves by adjusting the range and energy intensity of the shockwaves.

[0007] The handpiece can be divided into a handle and a shock wave generating part, and there may be a form in which the handle and the shock wave generating part form a straight line, or a bent form in which the handle and the shock wave generating part have an angle such as 90 degrees.

[0008] Straight or curved handpieces must be used selectively depending on the user's preference and the patient's treatment site; however, since straight or curved handpieces are provided as separate units, users face the inconvenience of having to use a different handpiece depending on the situation. Prior art literature

[0010] Republic of Korea Registered Patent 10-2410514 The problem to be solved

[0011] The present disclosure is conceived in response to the aforementioned background art and aims to provide a shock wave generator comprising a bendable handpiece.

[0012] The technical problems of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0014] The present disclosure is conceived in response to the aforementioned background art and aims to provide a shock wave generator comprising a bendable handpiece. The shock wave generator is a shock wave generator that generates a shock wave and may include a control unit that controls the process of the shock wave generator generating the shock wave; and a handpiece that outputs the shock wave to the outside. In one embodiment, the handpiece may include a handle portion; a transducer portion connected to the handle portion; and a connecting portion located between the handle portion and the transducer portion. Furthermore, the handle portion and the transducer portion may be connected through the connecting portion such that the handle portion can rotate within a predetermined angle range with respect to the transducer portion with respect to the connecting portion.

[0015] In one embodiment, the connection portion may include a hose for transmitting an electrical signal generated from the control portion to the transducer portion through the handle portion. The hose may be configured to pass through the handle portion and the transducer portion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the connection portion may include at least one connection element, one side of which is connected to a part of the handle portion and the other side opposite to the one side of which is connected to a part of the transducer portion. Additionally, the connection element may be provided on the outer surface of the hose.

[0017] In one embodiment, the connecting element may be two balls or two hinges.

[0018] In one embodiment, the connection may further include a motor controllable by the control unit.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first surface to which the handle portion and the connecting portion contact is inclined at a first angle within the angle range, and the second surface to which the transducer portion and the connecting portion contact is inclined at a second angle within the angle range.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first angle and the second angle may be determined to correspond to each other.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first angle and the second angle may be provided such that the sum of the first angle and the second angle becomes a predetermined angle.

[0022] In one embodiment, the handpiece may further include a first piezoelectric element having a first hole penetrating a cross-section to convert electrical energy into a shock wave; and a second piezoelectric element having a second hole penetrating a cross-section to convert electrical energy into a shock wave. Additionally, at least a portion of one surface of the first piezoelectric element and at least a portion of one surface of the second piezoelectric element may be joined.

[0023] In one embodiment, in order to lower the input impedance of the bonded piezoelectric element and improve the output per unit area of ​​the bonded piezoelectric element, the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element may be bonded to have physically reverse polarity.

[0024] In one embodiment, the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element, respectively, may be designed to have a preset conversion efficiency, driving voltage, and cross-sectional area.

[0025] In one embodiment, the handpiece may further include a main shock wave generator that converts electrical energy into a first shock wave; and an auxiliary shock wave generator that converts electrical energy into a second shock wave. In one embodiment, the shock wave energy of the shock wave may be determined by the first shock wave and the second shock wave, which are determined by controlling the main shock wave generator and the auxiliary shock wave generator by the control unit. In one embodiment, the auxiliary shock wave generator includes a moving part that allows the auxiliary shock wave generator to move within the shock wave generator, and the second position may be changeable by the moving part within a range corresponding to the first position within the shock wave generator.

[0026] In one embodiment, the handpiece may further include: a first shock wave generating unit comprising a first plurality of piezoelectric elements that convert first electrical energy into a first shock wave; a second shock wave generating unit comprising a second plurality of piezoelectric elements that convert second electrical energy into a second shock wave; and a focus shape adjusting unit that modifies the shock wave focus shape by physically controlling the shock wave focus shape generated by a combination of the first shock wave generated from the first shock wave generating unit and the second shock wave generated from the second shock wave generating unit.

[0027] In one embodiment, the control unit may determine the first feature of the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second feature of the second plurality of piezoelectric elements to generate the preset shock wave focus shape, or determine the first position of the first shock wave generating unit and the second position of the second shock wave generating unit within the shock wave generator.

[0028] In one embodiment, in response to receiving a user input that quantitatively sets the stimulation depth of the shock wave generator, the control unit may allow the shock wave focus shape to be modified by controlling the focus shape adjustment unit.

[0029] The technical solutions obtainable in this disclosure are not limited to the solutions mentioned above, and other solutions not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs from the description below. Effects of the invention

[0031] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, physical treatment for a patient can be effectively provided.

[0032] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0034] Various aspects are now described with reference to the drawings, wherein similar reference numbers are used to collectively refer to similar components. In the following embodiments, for illustrative purposes, a number of specific details are presented to provide a comprehensive understanding of one or more aspects. However, it will be apparent that such aspect(s) may be practiced without these specific details. In other examples, known structures and devices are illustrated in block diagram form to facilitate the description of one or more aspects. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing device included in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 is a drawing for illustrating a handpiece of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a piezoelectric element included in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a circuit included in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a piezoelectric element of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining the shock wave generating part of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the focal shape generated in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a drawing for illustrating a handpiece of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0035] Various embodiments and / or aspects are now disclosed with reference to the drawings. For illustrative purposes, numerous specific details are disclosed in the following description to aid in a general understanding of one or more aspects. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these aspects may be practiced without such specific details. The following description and the accompanying drawings describe specific exemplary aspects of one or more aspects in detail. However, these aspects are exemplary, and some of the various methods in the principles of the various aspects may be used, and the descriptions are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Specifically, terms such as “exemplary,” “example,” “aspect,” and “example” as used herein may not be interpreted as implying that any described aspect or design is superior or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

[0036] Hereinafter, identical or similar components are assigned the same reference numeral regardless of drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted. Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related prior art are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may obscure the essence of the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Additionally, the attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings.

[0037] Although terms such as first, second, etc. are used to describe various elements or components, it goes without saying that these elements or components are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one element or component from another. Therefore, it goes without saying that the first element or component mentioned below may be the second element or component within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this specification (including technical and scientific terms) may be used in a meaning that is commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Additionally, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise.

[0039] Furthermore, the term "or" is intended to mean an implicit "or" rather than an exclusive "or." That is, unless otherwise specified or evident from the context, "X uses A or B" is intended to mean one of the natural implicit substitutions. In other words, if X uses A; if X uses B; or if X uses both A and B, "X uses A or B" may apply to any of these cases. Additionally, the term "and / or" as used herein should be understood to refer to and include all possible combinations of one or more of the enumerated related items.

[0040] Additionally, the terms “comprising” and / or “comprising” should be understood to mean that such features and / or components are present, but not to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, and / or groups thereof. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified or clearly evident from the context to indicate a singular form, the singular in this specification and claims should generally be interpreted to mean “one or more.”

[0041] When it is stated that one component is "connected," "combined," or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or joined to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly joined" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0042] When elements or layers are referred to as being "on" or "on" another element or layer, it includes not only being directly on top of the other element or layer but also cases where another layer or element is interposed in between. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly on" or "immediately on," it indicates that no other element or layer is interposed in between.

[0043] Spatially relative terms such as "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used to easily describe the relationship between one component or other components as illustrated in the drawings. Spatially relative terms should be understood as encompassing different orientations of the element during use or operation, in addition to the directions illustrated in the drawings.

[0044] For example, if a component depicted in a drawing is inverted, a component described as being "below" or "beneath" another component may be placed "above" the other component. Therefore, the exemplary term "below" may encompass both the downward and upward directions. Components may also be oriented in other directions, and accordingly, spatially relative terms may be interpreted according to the orientation.

[0045] The terms "generation" and "occurrence" as used in this disclosure may often be used interchangeably.

[0046] Additionally, the terms "strength" and "intensity" as used in this disclosure may often be used interchangeably.

[0047] The purpose and effects of the present disclosure, and the technical configurations for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In describing the present disclosure, if it is determined that a detailed description of known functions or configurations might unnecessarily obscure the essence of the present disclosure, such detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined considering their functions in the present disclosure, and these may vary depending on the intentions or practices of the user or operator.

[0048] However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to make the present disclosure complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure, and the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims. Therefore, such definitions should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0050] In the present disclosure, the shockwave generator is a device used in the medical field and can perform the role of treating human tissues, etc. with shockwaves generated from the shockwave generator.

[0051] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator may include a main body comprising a control unit responsible for overall control of the device and a handpiece connected to the main body that generates a shock wave.

[0052] In one embodiment, the main body may include a power supply that supplies electrical energy to a shock wave generator, and an input unit capable of receiving information from a user, including a display that guides information to the user of the shock wave generator, a touchscreen, or a button.

[0053] In one embodiment, the main body may include an interface control and control device (Control Panel) for controlling and monitoring the operation of the shock wave generator. The user can use the control panel to adjust the waveform, energy level, frequency, etc. of the shock wave. In one embodiment, the control and control device may also set the time of the treatment session, the number of repetitions, etc.

[0054] In one embodiment, the handpiece may include a handle that a user can grasp, a emitter that generates a shock wave (which may be replaced with expressions such as generator, generator, etc.), and a head that contacts a target area and can modify the shape of the shock wave. For example, the handpiece may refer to a device that can be grasped and operated by hand.

[0055] In one embodiment, a unit or generator can generate a shock wave by converting electrical energy into a shock wave. Specifically, the unit can control the waveform, energy level (intensity, strength), and frequency of the shock wave.

[0056] In one embodiment, the head (or applicator) may correspond to a device for delivering shock waves to target tissue. In one embodiment, the head may be positioned at a contact site with the skin and designed to deliver shock waves intensively to the target tissue. In one embodiment, the head may be configured as a small dome-shaped or flat head that emits shock waves and may be covered with a protective cover. However, since the shape and material of the head may vary, it is not limited to the examples described in this disclosure.

[0057] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator can generate a shock wave using a piezoelectric element provided in the shock wave generator.

[0058] In one embodiment, a shock wave may refer to a wave having energy capable of physically impacting. In one embodiment, the wave may vary in pressure intensity, such as low energy or high energy, and may take the form of a focused wave transmitted by concentrating at a specific point or an unfocused wave transmitted by dispersing over a wide area.

[0059] In this disclosure, "shockwave" is a general term used in the fields of medicine and science and may refer to energy in the form of waves having physical impact energy. Shockwaves are generated with high energy and can be effectively delivered to human tissues using high-energy waves.

[0060] In one embodiment, shock waves can generally be classified into two types: extracorporeal shock waves and intracorporeal shock waves.

[0061] In one embodiment, the shock wave may be classified as a low-energy shock wave or a high-energy shock wave depending on the pressure level.

[0062] In one embodiment, the shock wave may be classified into a focused shock wave or an unfocused shock wave depending on the wave shape.

[0063] Each type of shock wave is used for a specific purpose in the medical field, and an appropriate shock wave can be selected depending on the patient's condition and symptoms.

[0064] In the present disclosure, a shock wave can generate a focal shape in which energy is concentrated at one point due to the characteristics of the wave. The focal shape of a shock wave can generally be modeled by a Gaussian function. The Gaussian shape of the shock wave describes the energy distribution of the wave and can influence the size, depth, length, shape, etc. of the focal point.

[0065] In one embodiment, the focal point of the shock wave has a narrow and concentrated shape, which can have the effect of allowing concentrated delivery to the target tissue. The focal shape of the shock wave based on a Gaussian function may vary depending on the design and parameter settings of the shock wave therapy device. In one embodiment, the focal shape can be adjusted by controlling the energy level, driving voltage, area, conversion efficiency, waveform, frequency, and / or the position and number of the piezoelectric elements of the present disclosure, and can be optimized to suit the purpose of treatment and the target tissue.

[0066] Since the focal shape of a shock wave is an important factor affecting the accuracy and effectiveness of treatment, the shock wave generator may require appropriate design and adjustment regarding the focal shape of the shock wave.

[0068] Hereinafter, a shock wave generator according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9.

[0069] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0070] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may be a device that generates energy with a specific range of intensity and delivers a physical shock wave to a target area.

[0071] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may include a control unit (110) that performs control over all operations that the shock wave generator (100) can perform, and / or a handpiece (120) that physically transmits the shock wave by contacting a target area. However, the above-described components are not essential for implementing the shock wave generator (100) of the present disclosure, so the shock wave generator (100) of the present disclosure may have more or fewer components than the components listed above.

[0072] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can perform all operations that the shock wave generator (100) can execute, specifically, the process of generating a shock wave and determining the energy of the shock wave, and can perform control over all operations related to the shock wave generator.

[0073] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine the energy intensity (intensity) of the output shock wave and control the shock wave generator (100) to generate a shock wave having an intensity corresponding to the determined intensity.

[0074] In one embodiment, the handpiece (120) can generate a shock wave of intensity corresponding to the energy intensity determined by the control unit (110) by means of a signal received from the control unit (110), and can transmit the generated shock wave to a target area.

[0075] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may include a computing device, and the operation of the shock wave generator (100) can be controlled using the computing device. A detailed description of the method for controlling the operation of the shock wave generator (100) using the computing device is described below with reference to FIG. 2.

[0077] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a computing device included in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0078] In the present disclosure, the control unit (110) of the shock wave generator (100) may include a computing device (10). In one embodiment, the computing device (10) may include a processor (11) and / or memory (12). However, the above-described components are not essential for implementing the computing device (10) in the present disclosure, so the computing device (10) in the present disclosure may have more or fewer components than the components listed above.

[0079] In the present disclosure, a computing device (10) may refer to any type of machine or device that performs the task of processing and analyzing data. In one embodiment, the computing device (10) may include a computer, a PC (personal computer), a notebook, a mobile terminal, a smartphone, a tablet PC, etc., and may include any type of terminal capable of connecting to a wired or wireless network.

[0080] A processor (11) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be composed of one or more cores and may include any type of processor for generating information, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a general purpose graphics processing unit (GPGPU), or a tensor processing unit (TPU) of the server of the present disclosure. The processor (11) may read a computer program stored in memory to generate information, a system and / or a program, etc., for generating a shock wave using a shock wave generator according to some embodiment of the present disclosure, or control the overall operation of the components of the computing device (10).

[0081] A memory (12) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may store any form of information generated or determined by a processor (11) and any form of information and data received by a network. Additionally, the terms “storage unit” and “memory” as used herein may often be used interchangeably.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the memory (12) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk. The computing device (10) may operate in connection with web storage that performs storage functions on the internet. The description of the memory (12) described above is merely an example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0083] In one embodiment, the computing device (10) can control the actual energy-generating component (piezoelectric element, etc.) and / or handpiece (120) included in the shock wave generator (100) to generate energy of a specific intensity determined by the user of the shock wave generator (100).

[0084] In one embodiment, the memory (12) may store conditions for generating a shock wave having a specific energy intensity and / or focal shape according to the treatment purpose and / or treatment site, etc. In one embodiment, when the control unit (110) receives a command from a user to generate a shock wave corresponding to shoulder muscle pain, it may obtain information from the memory (12) regarding conditions for generating the energy intensity and / or focal shape of the shock wave corresponding to shoulder muscle pain, such as the number and location of piezoelectric elements used and the characteristics of the wavelength generated by the piezoelectric elements. Then, the control unit (110) may control the shock wave generator (100) to generate a shock wave corresponding to the information obtained from the memory (12).

[0086] FIG. 3 is a drawing for illustrating a handpiece of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0087] In one embodiment, the handpiece (300) may include a rod-shaped handle portion (310) having a thickness that is convenient for a user to hold with their hand, and / or a transducer portion (320) connected to the handle portion (310).

[0088] In one embodiment, the handpiece (300) may further include a connecting part (not shown) that connects the handle part (310) and the transducer part (320).

[0089] In one embodiment, the handpiece (300) may include a head (330) at the end of the transducer portion (320) of the handpiece (300) that can physically transmit shock waves by contacting a target area.

[0090] In one embodiment, the head (330) may include a shock wave generating unit or a shock wave generating unit that physically generates a shock wave. Specifically, the transducer unit (320) may include a shock wave generating unit (340) that includes a piezoelectric element that generates a shock wave (350).

[0091] In one embodiment, the energy intensity and focal shape of the shock wave (350) may be modified by the shape, material, etc. of the head (330). Additionally, the head (330) may control the energy waves generated from the shock wave generating unit (340) to be collected or dispersed using the physical characteristics of the head (330), and the energy intensity and focal shape of the shock wave (350) may be modified by the shape and / or material of the head (330).

[0092] In one embodiment, the physical shape or material of all parts included in the handpiece (300) can be changed by the user, and the energy intensity and focal shape of the shock wave (350) generated as a result of the change can also vary.

[0093] In one embodiment, a method for modifying the energy intensity and focal shape of the shock wave (350) can be described in various embodiments with reference to the drawings below.

[0095] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a piezoelectric element included in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0096] In one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 4a, the shock wave generator (100) may include a plurality of piezoelectric elements (400a) that convert electrical energy into a shock wave by the piezo principle.

[0097] In one embodiment, a plurality of piezoelectric elements (400a) may include a first piezoelectric element (410a) and / or a second piezoelectric element (420a) having a cylindrical shape with one side concave and one side convex. Although the drawings of the present disclosure use a cylindrical shape as an example of the shape of the piezoelectric element, depending on the embodiment, piezoelectric elements having shapes other than a cylindrical shape may also be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0098] In one embodiment, the first piezoelectric element (410a) and the second piezoelectric element (420a) of the shock wave generator (100) may have the shape of a hollow sphere.

[0099] In one embodiment, the first piezoelectric element (410a) includes an A+ surface (411a) having electrically positive polarity and an A- surface (412a) having electrically negative polarity, and may include a first hole (413a) passing through the surface of the first piezoelectric element (410a).

[0100] In one embodiment, the second piezoelectric element (420a) includes a B+ surface (422a) having electrically positive polarity and a B- surface (421a) having electrically negative polarity, and may include a second hole (423a) passing through the surface of the second piezoelectric element (420a).

[0101] In one embodiment, the first piezoelectric element (410a) and the second piezoelectric element (420a) can each generate a shock wave having a first output energy (414a) and a second output energy (424a).

[0102] In one embodiment, the first piezoelectric element (410a) and the second piezoelectric element (420a) are each designed to have a preset conversion efficiency, driving voltage, and area, and based on the preset conversion efficiency, driving voltage, and area, the energy output from the first piezoelectric element (410a) and the second piezoelectric element (420a) can be determined.

[0103] In one embodiment, the first output energy (414a) and the second output energy (424a) may each have different energy intensities, and the first output energy (414a) and the second output energy (424a) may each be output in a direction facing either the concave or convex surface of the cylinder. For example, the first output energy (414a) may be output from the A-surface (412a) toward the A+surface (411a), and the second output energy (424a) may be output from the B+surface (422a) toward the B-surface (421a).

[0104] In one embodiment, the diameters of the first hole (413a) and the second hole (423a) may be different.

[0105] In one embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 4a and 4b, a plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) can be joined to form a single shape.

[0106] In one embodiment, the first piezoelectric element (410b) and the second piezoelectric element (420b) may each be joined to at least a portion of one surface. In one embodiment, the surface of the first piezoelectric element (410b) joined to the second piezoelectric element (420b) and the surface of the second piezoelectric element (420b) joined to the first piezoelectric element (410b) may be designed to have a curvature corresponding to a preset curvature. In one embodiment, if the surface joined to the second piezoelectric element (420b) of the first piezoelectric element (410b) is a convex surface having a preset first curvature, the surface joined to the first piezoelectric element (410b) of the second piezoelectric element (420b) may be a concave surface having the same curvature as the first curvature.

[0107] Specifically, in order to lower the input impedance of the bonded plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) and to improve the output (energy intensity) per unit area, the first piezoelectric element (410b) and the second piezoelectric element (420b) are bonded to have physical reverse polarity and can be electrically connected in parallel.

[0108] In one embodiment, the fact that the first piezoelectric element (410b) and the second piezoelectric element (420b) are joined to have physically opposite polarities may mean that the A-plane (412a) of the first piezoelectric element (410b) and the B-plane (421a) of the second piezoelectric element (420b) are joined, or that the A+plane (411a) of the first piezoelectric element (410b) and the B+plane (422a) of the second piezoelectric element (420b) are joined.

[0109] In one embodiment, when the first piezoelectric element (410b) and the second piezoelectric element (420b) are joined, they may be joined such that at least a portion of each of the first hole (413a) and the second hole (423a) overlap.

[0110] In one embodiment, when the A-plane (412a) of the first piezoelectric element (410a) and the B-plane (421a) of the second piezoelectric element (420a) are joined, the joined plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) may become a single cylindrical piezoelectric element having an A+ plane (411b) and a B+ plane (422b) at both ends. In one embodiment, the plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) may form a through hole that penetrates the inner surface of the joined first piezoelectric element (410b) and the second piezoelectric element (420b) by connecting the first hole (413a) and the second hole (423a) to each other.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 4c and 4d, a wire having a first polarity is connected to the bonding surface where the first piezoelectric element (410c) and the second piezoelectric element (420c) included in the plurality of piezoelectric elements (400c) are bonded, and a wire having a second polarity is connected to the first surface (corresponding to the A+ surface (411c)) opposite the bonding surface of the first piezoelectric element (410c) and the second surface (corresponding to the B+ surface (422c)) opposite the bonding surface of the second piezoelectric element (420c) where the first piezoelectric element (410c) and the second piezoelectric element (420c) are not bonded, and the first polarity and the second polarity may be different. For example, if the first polarity is negative, the second polarity can be positive, and if the first polarity is positive, the second polarity can be negative.

[0112] In one embodiment, when a plurality of piezoelectric elements (400d) are joined as shown in the drawing, at least one of the wires having a first polarity and a second polarity can be connected to the first piezoelectric element (410d) and the second piezoelectric element (420d) by passing through at least one of the first hole (413c) and the second hole (423c).

[0113] In one embodiment, the wire having the first polarity may be divided into two wires, one wire connected to the A+ side (411d) and the other wire connected to the B+ side (422d).

[0114] In one embodiment, the first polarity is connected to the A+ surface (411d) and the B+ surface (422d), and when the diameter of the second hole (423c) of the second piezoelectric element (420d) is larger than the diameter of the first hole (413c) of the first piezoelectric element (410d), a wire having the second polarity can pass through the second hole (423c) of the second piezoelectric element (420d) and be connected to the A- surface (412c) of the first piezoelectric element (410d).

[0115] In one embodiment, when a wire having a second polarity is connected to the A-plane (412c) of the first piezoelectric element (410d), the B-plane (422c) of the second piezoelectric element (420d) is connected to the A-plane (412c), so the effect of being connected to the wire having a second polarity through the A-plane (412c) can be obtained.

[0116] A shock wave generator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may use a technique that can increase the intensity of the output under conditions of preset conversion efficiency, driving voltage, and cross-sectional area. For example, the shock wave generator may increase the intensity of the shock wave by configuring a plurality of piezoelectric elements in a stacked form and using a method of connecting the plurality of piezoelectric elements in parallel.

[0117] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a circuit included in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 5, the first piezoelectric element (410e) and the second piezoelectric element (420e) can be connected to a power source including a positive polarity (520) and a negative polarity (510).

[0119] In one embodiment, the negative polarity (510) may be connected to the A-plane (412e) of the first piezoelectric element (410e), and the positive polarity (520) may be connected to the A+plane (411e) of the first piezoelectric element (410e). The first piezoelectric element (410e) may generate a shock wave having a first output energy (414e) in the direction from the A-plane (412e) connected to the negative polarity (510) to the A+plane (411e) connected to the positive polarity (520).

[0120] In one embodiment, the negative polarity (510) may be connected to the B-plane (421e) of the second piezoelectric element (420e), and the positive polarity (520) may be connected to the B+plane (422e) of the second piezoelectric element (420e). The second piezoelectric element (420e) may generate a shock wave having a second shock wave energy (424e) in the direction from the B+plane (422e) connected to the positive polarity (520) to the B-plane (421e) connected to the negative polarity (510).

[0121] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) can generate a shock wave composed of the sum of a first output energy (414e) and a second output energy (424e).

[0122] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may further include a third piezoelectric element having a shape corresponding to the first piezoelectric element (410e) and the second piezoelectric element (420e). Specifically, at least a portion of one side of the third piezoelectric element may be joined to at least a portion of a different side from the side where the first piezoelectric element (410e) and the second piezoelectric element (420e) are joined.

[0123] In one embodiment, the third piezoelectric element has a third hole penetrating the surface of the third piezoelectric element, and the third hole may have a different size from the first hole (413a) and the second hole (423a).

[0124] In one embodiment, when the shock wave generator (100) additionally includes a third piezoelectric element, the third piezoelectric element may be joined to the first piezoelectric element (410e) and the second piezoelectric element (420e) such that at least a portion of the first hole, the second hole, and the third hole overlap.

[0125] In one embodiment, as the number of piezoelectric elements (400b) joined increases, the effect occurs that the intensity of the shock wave generated from the plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) can increase.

[0126] In one embodiment, when a third piezoelectric element is additionally bonded to the first piezoelectric element (410e) and the second piezoelectric element (420e) of the shock wave generator (100), the third output energy output from the third piezoelectric element may also be superimposed on the first output energy (414e) and the second output energy (424e).

[0128] FIG. 6 is a drawing for illustrating a piezoelectric element of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 6 may be a drawing corresponding to the front and side of a piezoelectric element unit.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 6a, the shock wave generator (100) may include a piezoelectric element unit (600a) that converts an electrical signal into a shock wave inside a shock wave generating part (340) included in a handpiece (300).

[0130] For example, the piezoelectric element unit (600a) may be composed of at least one piezoelectric element.

[0131] In one embodiment, one piezoelectric element unit (600a) can generate a shock wave having one focus (610a).

[0132] In one embodiment, one piezoelectric element unit (600a) may correspond to a set of multiple piezoelectric elements (400b) combined, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 6b, the shock wave generator (100) may include a plurality of piezoelectric element units (600b) that convert electrical signals into shock waves inside a shock wave generating part (340) included in a handpiece (300).

[0134] In one embodiment, the piezoelectric element units (600b) may each include a plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b).

[0135] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) included in the piezoelectric element units (600b) generates a shock wave, and the plurality of shock waves generated from the plurality of piezoelectric elements (400b) can generate a plurality of focal points (610b), and the plurality of focal points (610b) can again form a new focal point by the principle of superposition of waves.

[0136] In one embodiment, the piezoelectric element units (600b) are controlled by a processor (11) and / or a control unit (110) to generate shock waves in the form of waves having different phases, intensities, etc.

[0138] FIG. 7 is a drawing for illustrating a shock wave generating part of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 7 may be a cross-sectional view in the lateral direction of a shock wave generating part (340) capable of substantially generating a shock wave included in the shock wave generator (100).

[0139] Referring to FIG. 7a, the shock wave generator (100) may include a main shock wave generating unit (700a) that converts electrical energy into a first shock wave at the location where the output wave generating unit (340) of the handpiece (300) is located.

[0140] In one embodiment, the main shock wave generating unit (700a) may include one piezoelectric element unit (600a) or a plurality of piezoelectric element units (600b), with reference to FIG. 6.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 7b, the shock wave generator (100) may have at least one auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) that converts electrical energy into a second shock wave in addition to the main shock wave generator (700b).

[0142] In one embodiment, a main shock wave generating unit (700b) and at least one auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720) are physically separated and located within a shock wave generator (100), and the main shock wave generating unit (700b) is fixedly provided at a first location of the shock wave generator (100), and at least one auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720) may be provided at a second location of the shock wave generator.

[0143] In one embodiment, the main shock wave generator (700b) may include an energy absorption unit that absorbs a second shock wave generated by the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720). In one embodiment, the main shock wave generator (700b) may absorb the second shock wave and generate a third shock wave that is greater than the intensity of the first shock wave before absorbing the second shock wave.

[0144] In one embodiment, the second position is set to be changeable within the range of the area occupied by the main shock wave generating unit (700b) in the shock wave generator (100), and the second position can be determined within the range of the area based on the shock wave energy determined by the control unit (110).

[0145] In one embodiment, the main shock wave generator (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720) are individually controlled by the control unit (110) so that the shock wave energy and / or the location where the main shock wave generator (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720) are provided can be determined.

[0146] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may determine the shock wave energy by simultaneously controlling the main shock wave generating unit (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720).

[0147] In one embodiment, the energy of the shock wave output or generated from the shock wave generator (100) may be determined by the first shock wave and the second shock wave. In one embodiment, the magnitude of the shock wave energy may correspond to the sum of the first shock wave energy and the second shock wave energy.

[0148] In one embodiment, the auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720) may include a moving unit that allows the auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720) to move within the shock wave generator (100). In one embodiment, the moving unit may be a structure controlled by an electrical signal by a control unit (110), including a wheel, motor, rail, etc., and / or a structure such as a tap, dial, screw, linear guide, flexible structure, etc., which can change the position of an object by physical force without an electrical signal.

[0149] In one embodiment, the main shock wave generating unit (700b) may include a moving unit corresponding to the auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720).

[0150] In one embodiment, the wheel may be provided attached to one surface within a range that does not interfere with the shock waves of the main shock wave generating part (700b) and / or the auxiliary shock wave generating part (710, 720).

[0151] In one embodiment, the rail may be provided inside the shock wave generator (100) corresponding to the movement range of the main shock wave generator (700b) and / or auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720).

[0152] In one embodiment, the motor is connected to the wheel and can be controlled by the control unit (110) to rotate the wheel.

[0153] In one embodiment, the direction of movement of the main shock wave generating unit (700b) and / or auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720) is not limited.

[0154] In one embodiment, the second position may be changeable by the moving part within the range corresponding to the first position within the shock wave generator. Specifically, the range corresponding to the first position may mean a physical position range within the shock wave generator (100) such that the shock wave generated by at least one auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) can overlap with at least a portion of the shock wave generated by the main shock wave generator (700b).

[0155] In one embodiment, when a user requests the shock wave generator (100) to generate a shock wave having a specific intensity (strength) to be used in a specific range of area, the processor (11) determines the intensity of the output wave energy and the respective physical locations of the main shock wave generator (700b) and / or auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720) to respond to the conditions requested by the user, and the control unit (110) can control the main shock wave generator (700b) and / or auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720) to generate an output wave of a specific intensity at a specific location in response to the conditions determined by the processor (11).

[0156] In one embodiment, when the position of the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) is moved, the processor (11) calculates and determines the position of the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) and the intensity of the output wave generated by the auxiliary output wave generator (710, 720) in order to output an output wave to satisfy a user's request based on the position of the main shock wave generator (700b) and the energy intensity of the output wave, and the control unit (110) changes the position of the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) using a moving unit and can control the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) so that the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) generates an output wave of a specific intensity simultaneously with the main shock wave generator (700b) generating an output wave.

[0157] In one embodiment, the main shock wave generator (700b) is movable by a first displacement, and the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) is movable by a second displacement, and the first displacement may be determined based on the second displacement and / or the second displacement may be determined based on the first displacement. In one embodiment, the shock wave energy may be determined based on the first displacement and the second displacement.

[0158] For example, a main shock wave generating unit (700b) that generates a shock wave with an α intensity is provided at a specific location, and an auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720) that generates a shock wave with a β intensity is provided at a specific location, so that the total energy intensity of the shock wave generated in the shock wave generator (100) may be a combination of α, β and λ (values ​​corresponding to energy loss) (e.g., sum value, etc.).

[0159] In one embodiment, the control unit (100) may first move the main shock wave generator (700b) by a first displacement or move the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) by a second displacement in order to increase or decrease the total energy intensity of the shock wave to be output, and calculate the remaining first displacement or second displacement based on the total energy intensity of the shock wave to be output and the first displacement or second displacement, and control the remaining main shock wave generator (700b) or auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) to move.

[0160] In one embodiment, through the movement distances of the first displacement and the second displacement, a distance difference of d1 occurs between the main shock wave generator (710b) and one auxiliary shock wave generator (710), and λ corresponding to the energy loss may correspond to a value calculated by the processor (11) based on d1 and β values.

[0161] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine the shock wave energy based on the size of the first shock wave, the size of the second shock wave, the first position, the second position, the area of ​​the main shock wave generating unit (700b), and the area of ​​the auxiliary shock wave generating unit (710, 720).

[0162] In one embodiment, the difference in distance between the main shock wave generator (700b) at the first position and the end of the head (330) may be d2, and the difference in distance between at least one auxiliary shock wave generator (710) at the second position and the end of the head (330) may be d3. And, λ may correspond to a value calculated by the processor (11) based on d2 and d3.

[0163] In one embodiment, the main shock wave generator (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720) each have a defined range of output wave intensity, and when the main shock wave generator (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720) are generated simultaneously, an effect can be achieved where an output wave greater than or equal to each intensity range is finally output through the shock wave generator (100). In one embodiment, the total shock wave energy output as a result can be determined by the sum of the magnitude of the first shock wave and the magnitude of the second shock wave.

[0164] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine the shock wave energy by individually controlling the piezoelectric elements included in each of the main shock wave generator (700b) and one or more auxiliary shock wave generators (710, 720).

[0165] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine and control the phase, frequency, driving voltage, and conversion efficiency of the piezoelectric element included in the main shock wave generator (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) so that the main shock wave generator (700b) and the auxiliary shock wave generator (710, 720) can generate a first shock wave and a second shock wave of a preset size.

[0167] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the focal shape generated in a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0168] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) can adjust the shape of the focal point generated by the shock wave through the control unit (110).

[0169] Referring to FIG. 8a, the shock wave generator (100) may include a shock wave generating unit (800a) comprising one piezoelectric element or a plurality of piezoelectric elements that convert electrical energy into a shock wave.

[0170] In one embodiment, a shock wave generated by a shock wave generating unit (800a) can form a shock wave focus (80a).

[0171] In one embodiment, when a shock wave generating unit (800a) includes only one piezoelectric element, the shape of the shock wave focus (80a) can be increased or decreased, increased or decreased, and / or changed to another shape as the waveform, energy level, and / or frequency of the shock wave generated from the one piezoelectric element is controlled by the control unit (110).

[0172] In one embodiment, when a shock wave focus (80a) is one shock wave generating unit (800a) includes a plurality of piezoelectric elements, the waveform, energy level, and / or frequency of each shock wave generated from each piezoelectric element is controlled by the control unit (110), so that the focus shape may become larger / smaller, longer / shorter, and / or modified into a different shape, or the focus shape may be increased to a plurality, compared to the case where only one piezoelectric element is included.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 8b, the shock wave generator (100) may include a plurality of shock wave generating units (800b) comprising one or more piezoelectric elements that convert a plurality of electrical energies into a plurality of shock waves.

[0174] In one embodiment, a plurality of shock wave generating units (800b) can generate a deformed focal shape (80b).

[0175] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may include a first shock wave generating unit comprising one first piezoelectric element or a plurality of first piezoelectric elements that convert first electrical energy into a first shock wave.

[0176] In one embodiment, the first shock wave generated by the first shock wave generating unit can form a first shock wave focus.

[0177] In one embodiment, when the first shock wave focus includes one first piezoelectric element, the shape of the focus may be enlarged / smaller, lengthened / shortened, and / or modified into another shape as the waveform, energy level, and / or frequency of each of the shock waves generated from each first piezoelectric element is controlled by the control unit (110).

[0178] In one embodiment, when the first shock wave generating unit includes a plurality of first piezoelectric elements, the waveform, energy level, and / or frequency of each of the shock waves generated from each of the first piezoelectric elements is controlled by the control unit (110), so that the focus shape may become larger / smaller, longer / shorter, and / or deformed into a different shape, or a plurality of focus shapes may be generated.

[0179] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may include a second shock wave generating unit comprising one second piezoelectric element or a plurality of second piezoelectric elements that convert second electrical energy into a second shock wave.

[0180] In one embodiment, the second shock wave generated by the second shock wave generating unit can form a second shock wave focus.

[0181] In one embodiment, when the second shock wave generating unit includes one second piezoelectric element, the second shock wave focus may be modified to become larger / smaller, longer / shorter, and / or other shapes as the waveform, energy level, and / or frequency of each of the shock waves generated from each second piezoelectric element is controlled by the control unit (110).

[0182] In one embodiment, when the second shock wave generating unit includes a plurality of second piezoelectric elements, the waveform, energy level, and / or frequency of each of the shock waves generated from each of the second piezoelectric elements is controlled by the control unit (110), so that the focus shape may become larger / smaller, longer / shorter, and / or deformed into a different shape, or a plurality of focus shapes may be generated.

[0183] In one embodiment, the second shock wave generating unit (800b) may include a plurality of shock wave generating units, and the plurality of shock wave generating units may include moving units, each of which may be provided at various locations within the shock wave generator (100) or may move freely.

[0184] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may determine the first feature of the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second feature of the second plurality of piezoelectric elements to generate a preset shock wave focus shape, or determine the first position of the first shock wave generating unit and the second position of the second shock wave generating unit within the shock wave generator.

[0185] For example, if the control unit (110) wants to generate a focus along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis, it can control the distance between the first shock wave generator and the second shock wave generator, or increase the shock wave intensity of the piezoelectric elements closer to the center of the shock wave generator (100) among the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second plurality of piezoelectric elements, and decrease the shock wave intensity of the piezoelectric elements further from the center.

[0186] For example, if the control unit (110) wants to create a focus along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, it can control the distance between the first shock wave generator and the second shock wave generator, or weaken the shock wave intensity of the piezoelectric elements closer to the center of the shock wave generator (100) among the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second plurality of piezoelectric elements, and strengthen the shock wave intensity of the piezoelectric elements further from the center.

[0187] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may further include a focus shape adjustment unit that modifies the shock wave focus shape by physically controlling the shock wave focus shape generated by a combination of a first shock wave generated from a first shock wave generating unit and / or a second shock wave generated from a second shock wave generating unit.

[0188] In one embodiment, the focus shape adjustment unit has a structure in which the first shock wave and the second shock wave do not leak to the outside and is manufactured from at least one of plastic, rubber, and silicone, and can correspond to the head (330).

[0189] In one embodiment, the focus shape adjustment unit may change the position of at least one of the first shock wave generating unit and / or the second shock wave generating unit to modify the shock wave focus shape. For example, the focus shape adjustment unit may change the position of the first shock wave generating unit and / or the second shock wave generating unit through physical control of the moving unit.

[0190] In one embodiment, the focus shape adjustment unit may modify the shock wave focus shape by changing at least one of the first feature of the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second feature of the second plurality of piezoelectric elements. For example, changing at least one of the first feature of the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second feature of the second plurality of piezoelectric elements may include changing at least one of the phase of the piezoelectric element, the driving voltage of the piezoelectric element, the coupling method of the piezoelectric elements, and the direction in which the piezoelectric element faces by the control unit (110) and / or the focus shape adjustment unit.

[0191] In one embodiment, the user may input a quantitative setting of the stimulation depth of the shock wave generator (100), and in response to receiving the input, the control unit (110) may allow the shock wave focus shape to be modified by controlling the focus shape adjustment unit.

[0192] For example, if the user input includes a first stimulation depth, the control unit (110) can control the focus shape adjustment unit so that the shock wave focus shape becomes an ellipse having a major axis parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0193] For example, if the user input includes a second stimulation depth smaller than the first stimulation depth, the control unit (110) can control the focus shape adjustment unit so that the shock wave focus shape becomes an ellipse having a minor axis parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0194] In one embodiment, depending on the quantitative magnitude of the stimulation depth included in the user input, the control unit (110) determines the lengths of the major axis and minor axis of an ellipse corresponding to the shock wave focus shape, and based on the determined lengths of the major axis and minor axis of the ellipse, the control unit (110) can control the operation of the focus shape adjustment unit.

[0195] In one embodiment, the length of the major axis and / or minor axis corresponding to the first stimulation depth and / or the second stimulation depth is stored in memory (12), so that when a user inputs a request corresponding to the first stimulation depth and / or the second stimulation depth again, the focus shape adjustment unit can be controlled directly through the data stored in memory (12) without going through the process of determining the length of the major axis and minor axis.

[0196] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine the first position of the first shock wave generating unit and the second position of the second shock wave generating unit within a range in which the shock wave focal shape generated by the combination of the first shock wave generated from the first shock wave generating unit and the second shock wave generated from the second shock wave generating unit is not separated into two.

[0197] In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can determine a first position of the first shock wave generating unit and a second position of the second shock wave generating unit so that the shock wave focal shape generated by the combination of the first shock wave generated from the first shock wave generating unit and the second shock wave generated from the second shock wave generating unit is separated into a plurality of shapes.

[0198] In one embodiment, the focus shape adjustment unit is formed with a structure that is detachable from the shock wave generator (100), so that it can be detached or attached and used as needed by the user.

[0200] FIG. 9 is a drawing for illustrating a handpiece of a shock wave generator according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0201] In one embodiment, the shock wave generator (100) may include a bendable handpiece (900) designed so that a specific part can be bent.

[0202] In one embodiment, the handpiece (900) may include a handle portion (910) that a user can hold with their hand, a transducer portion (920) connected to the handle portion (910), and a connecting portion (930) located between the handle portion (910) and the transducer portion (920).

[0203] In one embodiment, the handle portion (910) and the transducer portion (920) can be connected through the connection portion (930) so that the handle portion (910) can rotate within a predetermined angle range with respect to the transducer portion (920) with respect to the connection portion (930).

[0204] In one embodiment, the connecting portion (930) includes a hose to transmit an electrical signal generated from the control portion (110) to the transducer portion (920) through the handle portion, and the hose may be configured to pass through the handle portion (910) and the transducer portion (920).

[0205] In one embodiment, the connection portion (930) may include at least one connection element, one side of which is connected to a part of the handle portion (910), and the other side opposite to the one side of which is connected to a part of the transducer portion (920). For example, the connection element may include a ball and / or hinge structure.

[0206] In one embodiment, the connecting element may be two balls or two hinges. For example, if the connecting element includes two balls and / or hinges, each component may be coupled to correspond to each end of the handle portion (910) and the transducer portion (920). For example, if the connecting element consists only of two balls, the transducer portion (920) may be bent within a 180-degree range, and if the connecting element includes only two hinges, the transducer portion (920) may be bent within a 90-degree angle range.

[0207] In one embodiment, the connecting element may be provided on the outer surface of the hose.

[0208] In one embodiment, the handpiece (900) can be bent by an external force from the user. Specifically, the ball and / or hinge of the connecting part (930) can be moved so that the transducer part (920) is bent at an angle that is not in a straight line with the handle part (910).

[0209] In one embodiment, the connecting part (930) may further include a motor controllable by the control part (110). For example, if the connecting part (930) includes a motor, the motor may be coupled to a ball and / or hinge so that the transducer part (920) may move to an angle other than 180 degrees with the handle part (910) without physical external force from the user.

[0210] In one embodiment, by the bending function of the bendable handpiece (900), the first surface (912) where the handle portion (910) and the connecting portion (930) come into contact is inclined at a first angle (911) within an angle range corresponding to the angle at which the transducer portion (920) and the handle portion (910) bend as much as possible in a straight line, and the second surface (922) where the transducer portion (920) and the connecting portion (930) come into contact can be inclined at a second angle (921) within the angle range.

[0211] In one embodiment, the first angle (911) and the second angle (921) correspond to each other so that the sum of the first angle (911) and the second angle (921) becomes a predetermined angle, and the predetermined angle may be an angle determined according to the range in which the transducer part (920) and the handle part (910) bend.

[0213] Description of the presented embodiments is provided so that a person skilled in the art may use or practice the present disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be apparent to a person skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments presented herein, but should be interpreted in the broadest possible scope consistent with the principles and novel features presented herein.

Claims

Claim 1 A shock wave generator for generating a shock wave, comprising: a control unit that controls the process of the shock wave generator generating the shock wave; and a handpiece that outputs the shock wave to the outside; wherein the handpiece comprises: a handle portion; and a transducer portion connected to the handle portion. A shock wave generator comprising: a connecting portion located between the handle portion and the transducer portion; wherein the handle portion and the transducer portion are connected through the connecting portion so that the handle portion can rotate within a predetermined angle range with respect to the transducer portion with respect to the connecting portion; wherein the connecting portion includes a hose for transmitting an electrical signal generated from the control portion to the transducer portion through the handle portion, the hose is configured to penetrate the handle portion and the transducer portion; wherein the connecting portion is composed of two balls to connect the handle portion and the transducer portion, one side of the two balls is connected to a part of the handle portion, and the other side of the two balls opposite to the one side is connected to a part of the transducer portion, and the hose passes through the space between the two balls. Claim 2 delete Claim 3 delete Claim 4 delete Claim 5 In claim 1, the shock wave generator, wherein the connecting portion further includes a motor controllable by the control portion. Claim 6 A shock wave generator according to claim 1, wherein the first surface where the handle portion and the connecting portion contact is inclined at a first angle within the angle range, and the second surface where the transducer portion and the connecting portion contact is inclined at a second angle within the angle range. Claim 7 In claim 6, a shock wave generator in which the first angle and the second angle are determined to correspond to each other. Claim 8 In claim 7, a shock wave generator configured such that the first angle and the second angle are configured such that the sum of the first angle and the second angle becomes a predetermined angle. Claim 9 In claim 1, the handpiece further comprises: a first piezoelectric element including a first hole penetrating a cross-section for converting electrical energy into a shock wave; and a second piezoelectric element including a second hole penetrating a cross-section for converting electrical energy into a shock wave; and a shock wave generator wherein at least a portion of one surface of the first piezoelectric element and at least a portion of one surface of the second piezoelectric element are joined. Claim 10 In claim 9, a shock wave generator in which the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element are joined to have physically reverse polarity in order to lower the input impedance of the joined piezoelectric element and improve the output per unit area of ​​the joined piezoelectric element. Claim 11 In claim 9, a shock wave generator, wherein each of the first piezoelectric element and the second piezoelectric element is designed to have a preset conversion efficiency, driving voltage, and cross-sectional area. Claim 12 In claim 1, the handpiece further comprises: a main shock wave generator provided at a first position within the shock wave generator and converting electrical energy into a first shock wave; and an auxiliary shock wave generator provided at a second position different from the first position within the shock wave generator and converting electrical energy into a second shock wave; wherein the shock wave energy of the shock wave is determined by the first shock wave and the second shock wave, which are determined by the control unit controlling the positions of the main shock wave generator and the auxiliary shock wave generator; and wherein the auxiliary shock wave generator includes a moving part that allows the auxiliary shock wave generator to move within the shock wave generator, and the second position is changeable by the moving part within a range corresponding to the first position within the shock wave generator. Claim 13 A shock wave generator according to claim 1, wherein the handpiece further comprises: a first shock wave generating unit including a first plurality of piezoelectric elements that convert first electrical energy into a first shock wave; a second shock wave generating unit including a second plurality of piezoelectric elements that convert second electrical energy into a second shock wave; and a focus shape adjusting unit that controls at least one of a first feature including the phase, driving voltage, coupling method, and facing direction of the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and a second feature including the phase, driving voltage, coupling method, and facing direction of the second plurality of piezoelectric elements, in order to physically control the shock wave focus shape generated by the combination of the first shock wave generated from the first shock wave generating unit and the second shock wave generated from the second shock wave generating unit, thereby deforming the shock wave focus shape. Claim 14 In claim 13, the control unit determines the first feature of the first plurality of piezoelectric elements and the second feature of the second plurality of piezoelectric elements to generate the preset shock wave focus shape, or determines the first position of the first shock wave generating unit and the second position of the second shock wave generating unit within the shock wave generator. Claim 15 A shock wave generator according to claim 13, wherein, in response to receiving a user input that quantitatively sets the stimulation depth of the shock wave generator, the control unit allows the shock wave focus shape to be modified by controlling the focus shape adjustment unit.

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