Apparatus and method for supplying current of monopolar and bipolar by skin depth for performing repeated needle insertion movements

Abstract

The present disclosure may include: an electrode unit comprising a plurality of needle-type electrodes that repeatedly perform insertion and withdrawal operations within the skin; a drug injection unit that injects a drug into the skin; an energy supply unit that selectively applies a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current to a plurality of electrodes; a transfer unit that moves the electrode unit so that a target depth within the skin is reached differently by repeatedly performing insertion and withdrawal operations at the same location of the plurality of electrodes; and a control unit that controls the energy supply unit so that a first high-frequency current and a second high-frequency current are applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached by repeatedly performing insertion and withdrawal operations, and controls the drug injection unit so that a drug is injected into the different target depths.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for applying monopolar and bipolar currents. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for applying monopolar and bipolar currents at different skin depths for performing a needle repetitive insertion operation. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, skin care devices for wrinkle removal, skin elasticity restoration, and sebum removal include methods that deliver ultrasound to skin tissue (HIFU type), methods that deliver high-frequency waves to skin tissue (RF type), and methods that irradiate skin tissue with laser light (Optical type).

[0003] A device that delivers high-frequency waves to skin tissue repeatedly penetrates the deep layer of the skin (e.g., the dermis layer) of the skin (e.g., the face) using RF needle electrodes that move back and forth in a vertical direction, and utilizes the heat generated by the high-frequency waves to remove damaged collagen, elastic fibers, etc., from the deep layer of the skin at the target point and promote the formation of new ones.

[0004] Furthermore, these skin care devices improve skin pigmentation, acne marks, and wrinkles.

[0005] In other words, the skin is regenerated by intentionally inducing a wound on a target area of ​​the skin through the application of various energies, and then stimulating the collagen in the dermis to induce collagen regeneration.

[0006] However, conventional skin care devices were unable to deliver abundant or efficient electrical energy to a specific depth of the skin.

[0007] Therefore, conventional skin care devices could not accurately deliver abundant or efficient electrical energy during ultrasonic irradiation, resulting in reduced accuracy of ultrasonic irradiation.

[0008] In addition, conventional skin care devices had limitations in shortening the ultrasound irradiation time and maximizing the effect of ultrasound irradiation because a doctor had to carefully perform the ultrasound irradiation. Prior art literature

[0009] Korean Registered Patent KR 10-0985822 (Published Oct. 8, 2010) The problem to be solved

[0010] The purpose of the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure is to provide a method for increasing the accuracy of ultrasonic irradiation by accurately irradiating abundant electrical energy or efficient electrical energy during ultrasonic irradiation.

[0011] In addition, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure are intended to provide a method for shortening the ultrasonic irradiation time and maximizing the ultrasonic irradiation effect.

[0012] In addition, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure aim to provide a method that can maximize the optimal skin improvement effects of the monopolar and bipolar types while preventing the occurrence of skin burns.

[0013] In addition, the purpose of the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure is to provide a method for reducing pain caused by needle insertion by implementing the needles in a manner that gradually increases the depth.

[0014] In addition, the embodiments disclosed in this disclosure are intended to provide a method for injecting a drug into progressively deeper locations.

[0015] The problems that this disclosure aims to solve are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0016] A monopolar and bipolar current application device for performing a needle repetitive insertion operation according to one aspect of the present disclosure for achieving the technical problem described above may include: an electrode unit comprising a plurality of needle-type electrodes that repeatedly perform insertion and withdrawal operations within the skin; a drug injection unit that injects a drug into the skin; an energy supply unit that selectively applies a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current to the plurality of electrodes; a transfer unit that moves the electrode unit so that the plurality of electrodes reach different target depths within the skin through the repeated performance of the insertion and withdrawal operations at the same location; and a control unit that, when the plurality of electrodes each reach the different target depths through the repeated performance of the insertion and withdrawal operations, controls the energy supply unit so that the first high-frequency current and the second high-frequency current are each applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached, and controls the drug injection unit so that the drug is injected into the different target depths.

[0017] Additionally, the control unit may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit so that the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth.

[0018] In addition, the control unit may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the second depth that is preset, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the third depth.

[0019] Additionally, the control unit may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit so that the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth.

[0020] In addition, the control unit may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the second depth that is preset, the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth.

[0021] Additionally, a method performed by a monopolar and bipolar current application device for skin depths that performs a needle repetitive insertion operation according to another aspect of the present disclosure may include: a step of moving an electrode portion of the device through a transfer portion of the device so that a plurality of electrodes reach different target depths within the skin by repeatedly performing the insertion operation and the withdrawal operation at the same location; a step of determining through a control portion of the device whether the plurality of electrodes have each reached the different target depths by repeatedly performing the insertion operation and the withdrawal operation; and a step of controlling an energy supply portion of the device through a control portion of the device so that, if the plurality of electrodes have each reached the different target depths by repeatedly performing the insertion operation and the withdrawal operation, the first high-frequency current and the second high-frequency current are each applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached, and controlling a drug injection portion of the device so that the drug is injected into the different target depths.

[0022] Additionally, the control step may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit is controlled so that the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the second depth.

[0023] In addition, the control step may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the second depth that is preset, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth.

[0024] Additionally, the control step may be characterized by controlling the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit is controlled so that the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth.

[0025] Additionally, the control step may be characterized by controlling the application of the second high-frequency current to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the second depth that is preset. Effects of the invention

[0026] According to the above-described means for solving the problem of the present disclosure, when ultrasonic irradiating, abundant electrical energy or efficient electrical energy is accurately irradiated, thereby providing the effect of increasing the accuracy of ultrasonic irradiation.

[0027] In addition, according to the above-described means for solving the problem of the present disclosure, the ultrasonic irradiation time can be shortened and the ultrasonic irradiation effect can be maximized.

[0028] In addition, according to the aforementioned means for solving the problem of the present disclosure, the effect of improving the optimal skin condition of the monopolar type and bipolar type is provided while preventing the occurrence of skin burns in advance.

[0029] In addition, according to the above-described means for solving the problem of the present disclosure, the effect of reducing pain caused by needle insertion is provided by implementing a method of gradually inserting the needle to a deeper depth.

[0030] In addition, according to the above-described means for solving the problem of the present disclosure, the effect of being able to gradually inject a drug into a deeper location is provided.

[0031] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0032] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a monopolar and bipolar current application device according to skin depth that performs a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, a process in which a plurality of electrodes repeatedly perform insertion and removal operations at the same position by the movement of the transfer unit of FIG. 1. Figure 3 is a diagram showing a plurality of needle-type electrode structures arranged in the electrode portion of Figure 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the process of applying a monopolar type first high-frequency current to a plurality of needle-type electrodes of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the process of applying a second high-frequency current of the bipolar type to a plurality of needle-type electrodes of FIG. 3. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for applying monopolar and bipolar currents according to skin depth to perform a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure. FIGS. 7 to 10 are drawings illustrating, as an example, a process of controlling a plurality of electrodes to apply a first high-frequency current, a second high-frequency current, and a first high-frequency current through respective insertion operations in the control step of FIG. 6. FIGS. 11 to 14 are drawings illustrating, as an example, a process of controlling a second high-frequency current, a first high-frequency current, and a second high-frequency current to be applied to a plurality of electrodes through respective insertion operations in the control step of FIG. 6. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0033] Throughout this disclosure, the same reference numerals denote the same components. This disclosure does not describe all elements of the embodiments, and general content in the art to which this disclosure pertains or content that overlaps between embodiments is omitted. The terms 'part, module, component, block' as used in the specification may be implemented in software or hardware, and depending on the embodiments, a plurality of 'parts, modules, components, blocks' may be implemented as a single component, or a single 'part, module, component, block' may include a plurality of components.

[0034] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are directly connected but also cases where they are indirectly connected, and indirect connections include connections made via a wireless communication network.

[0035] Furthermore, when it is stated that a part "includes" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0036] Throughout the specification, when it is stated that a component is located "on" another component, this includes not only cases where a component is in contact with another component, but also cases where another component exists between the two components.

[0037] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to distinguish one component from another, and the components are not limited by the aforementioned terms.

[0038] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless there is an obvious exception in the context.

[0039] In each step, identification codes are used for convenience of explanation and do not describe the order of the steps; the steps may be performed differently from the specified order unless a specific order is clearly indicated in the context.

[0040] The operating principles and embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0041] The monopolar and bipolar current application device according to skin depth during needle insertion of the present disclosure is used to raise the temperature of a target area that is electromagnetically conducted below the skin surface through microneedles to a level where tissue heating occurs.

[0042] In this specification, the control unit of the monopolar and bipolar current application device for each skin depth performing a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure includes all of various devices capable of performing computational processing and providing results to a user. For example, the control unit of the monopolar and bipolar current application device for each skin depth performing a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure may include all of a computer, a server device, and a portable terminal, or may take the form of any one of them.

[0043] Here, the computer may include, for example, a notebook, desktop, laptop, tablet PC, slate PC, etc. equipped with a web browser.

[0044] A server device is a server that processes information by communicating with external devices, and may include application servers, computing servers, database servers, file servers, mail servers, proxy servers, and web servers.

[0045] A portable terminal is a wireless communication device that ensures portability and mobility, and may include all kinds of handheld-based wireless communication devices such as PCS (Personal Communication System), GSM (Global System for Mobile communications), PDC (Personal Digital Cellular), PHS (Personal Handyphone System), PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), IMT (International Mobile Telecommunication)-2000, CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access)-2000, W-CDMA (W-Code Division Multiple Access), WiBro (Wireless Broadband Internet) terminals, smartphones, etc., as well as wearable devices such as watches, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, glasses, contact lenses, or head-mounted devices (HMDs).

[0046] A monopolar and bipolar current application device for skin depths that performs a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure can control an energy supply unit so that a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current are applied to a plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached when a plurality of electrodes each reach different target depths through the repetitive performance of insertion and withdrawal operations, and can control a drug injection unit so that a drug is injected into the different target depths. At this time, the intensity of the monopolar type first high-frequency current and the bipolar type second high-frequency current each increases as the target depth increases, but the intensities may be different from each other.

[0047] Below, we will examine in detail the monopolar and bipolar current application devices for different skin depths that perform the needle repetitive insertion operation.

[0048] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a monopolar and bipolar current application device according to skin depth that performs a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing, as an example, a process in which a plurality of electrodes repeatedly perform insertion and withdrawal operations at the same position by the movement of the transfer unit of FIG. 1.

[0049] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a plurality of needle-type electrode structures arranged in the electrode portion of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing, as an example, the process of applying a monopolar type first high-frequency current to the plurality of needle-type electrodes of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing, as an example, the process of applying a bipolar type second high-frequency current to the plurality of needle-type electrodes of FIG. 3.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, a monopolar and bipolar current application device (100) for skin depth performing a needle repetitive insertion operation may include an input unit (110), an electrode unit (120), an energy supply unit (130), a transfer unit (140), and a control unit (150).

[0051] The input unit (110) is for receiving target depth information within the skin from a user, and when target depth information within the skin is input, the control unit (150) can control the operation of the device to correspond to the input target depth information within the skin. Here, the target depth information within the skin may be a target depth value within the dermis layer.

[0052] The input unit (110) may include a hardware physical key (e.g., a button, dome switch, jog wheel, jog switch, etc. located on at least one of the front, rear, and side of the device) and a software touch key. As an example, the touch key may be composed of a virtual key, soft key, or visual key displayed on a touchscreen-type display unit through software processing, or a touch key placed on a part other than the touchscreen. Meanwhile, the virtual key or visual key may be displayed on the touchscreen in various forms, and may be composed of, for example, a graphic, text, an icon, a video, or a combination thereof.

[0053] The electrode portion (120) may include a plurality of needle-type electrodes (121) that repeatedly perform insertion and withdrawal operations within the skin (S). The plurality of needle-type electrodes (121) penetrate the deep layer of the skin (S) (e.g., the dermal layer) through repeated insertion operations, and utilize heat generated by high frequency to remove damaged collagen, elastic fibers, etc., from the deep layer at the target point and promote new formation.

[0054] As illustrated in FIG. 3, among the needle-type electrodes (121), a plurality of electrodes (121a) of (+) polarity and a plurality of electrodes (121b) of (-) polarity may be arranged in a plurality of groups, and a plurality of electrodes (121b) of (-) polarity and a plurality of electrodes (121a) of (+) polarity may be arranged in a plurality of groups. For example, in the odd-numbered rows of the electrode section (120), a plurality of electrodes (121a) of (+) polarity and a plurality of electrodes (121b) of (-) polarity in a plurality of groups may be repeatedly arranged, and in the even-numbered rows of the electrode section (120), a plurality of electrodes (121b) of (-) polarity and a plurality of electrodes (121a) of (+) polarity in a plurality of groups may be repeatedly arranged.

[0055] The energy supply unit (130) can selectively apply a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current to a plurality of electrodes (121). Here, the energy supply unit (130) may include a switching circuit for selectively applying a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current.

[0056] At this time, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the energy supply unit (130) can apply a monopolar type first high-frequency current to a plurality of electrodes (121) of (+) polarity (121a) and a return pad (122) of (-) polarity among a plurality of electrodes (121). A current circuit must be formed for the high-frequency current to flow through the skin (S). When the energy supply unit (130) applies a monopolar type first high-frequency current to a plurality of electrodes (121a) of (+) polarity and a return pad (122) of (-) polarity, high-frequency energy is concentrated on the plurality of electrodes (121a) of (+) polarity, enabling deeper heat transfer than a bipolar type, thereby generating abundant deep heat. Here, the return pad (122) may be a pad for grounding.

[0057] Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the energy supply unit (130) can apply a second high-frequency current of the bipolar type to a plurality of electrodes (121) of the (+) polarity (121a) and a plurality of electrodes (121b) of the (-) polarity among the plurality of electrodes (121). When the energy supply unit (130) applies a second high-frequency current of the bipolar type to the plurality of electrodes (121a) of the (+) polarity and the plurality of electrodes (121b) of the (-) polarity, a current circuit is formed between the plurality of electrodes (121a) of the (+) polarity and the plurality of electrodes (121b) of the (-) polarity, so that excessive heat transfer can be prevented and the selected high-frequency irradiation area can be concentrated.

[0058] The transfer unit (140) can move the electrode unit (120) so that multiple electrodes (121) reach different target depths within the skin by repeatedly performing insertion and removal operations at the same location. At this time, the transfer unit (140) can move the electrode unit (120) in a vertical direction.

[0059] The control unit (150) may be implemented with a memory (151) that stores data for an algorithm or a program that reproduces the algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the device, and at least one processor (152) that performs the aforementioned operation using the data stored in the memory (151). Here, the memory (151) and the processor (152) may each be implemented as separate chips. Additionally, the memory (151) and the processor (152) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0060] The memory (151) can store data supporting various functions of the device and a program for the operation of the control unit, and can store input / output data, and can store a number of application programs (or applications) running on the device, data for the operation of the device, and instructions. At least some of these application programs can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication.

[0061] Such memory (151) may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, SSD type (Solid State Disk type), SSD type (Silicon Disk Drive type), multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or XD memory, etc.), RAM (random access memory; RAM), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory; ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk. Additionally, the memory (151) may be a database that is separated from the device but connected via wired or wireless connection.

[0062] The memory (151) can store depth information regarding the skin layer and data related to the needle repeated insertion operation. The processor (152) can control the operation related to the needle repeated insertion operation.

[0063] The processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when a plurality of electrodes (121) reach different target depths of the skin layer through repeated insertion and removal operations, a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current are applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached. At this time, the intensity of the monopolar type first high-frequency current and the bipolar type second high-frequency current increases as the target depth increases, but the intensities may differ from each other. For example, as the target depth increases, the intensity of the first high-frequency current may be greater or smaller than the intensity of the second high-frequency current.

[0064] The processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a first depth that is preset, a first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth. Additionally, the processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth that is deeper than the first depth that is preset, a second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth. Additionally, the processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the third time and the target depth is a third depth that is deeper than the second depth that is preset, a first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth.

[0065] The processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a first depth that is preset, a second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth. Additionally, the processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth that is deeper than the first depth that is preset, a first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth. Additionally, the processor (152) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the third time and the target depth is a third depth that is deeper than the second depth that is preset, a second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth.

[0066] The processor (152) can control the drug injection unit (160) so that when a plurality of electrodes (121) reach different target depths of the skin layer through repeated insertion and removal operations, a drug for skin care is injected into different target depths of the skin layer.

[0067] Meanwhile, the processor (152) can control a display device to monitor the multiple electrodes (121) being inserted at each insertion depth whenever the multiple electrodes (121) are inserted at each insertion depth of the skin layer. Additionally, the processor (152) can measure the impedance for each current at each insertion depth whenever the multiple electrodes (121) are inserted at each insertion depth of the skin layer, and adjust and correct the energy at each insertion depth based on the measured impedance.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method for applying monopolar and bipolar currents according to skin depth to perform a needle repetitive insertion operation according to the present disclosure.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 6, a method for applying monopolar and bipolar currents according to skin depth to perform a needle repetitive insertion operation may include an input step (S610), a movement step (S620), a judgment step (S630), and a control step (S640).

[0070] The input step can receive target depth information within the skin from the user through the input unit (110) (S610). Here, the target depth information within the skin may be a target depth value within the dermis layer.

[0071] In the movement step, the electrode unit (120) can be moved so that the target depth within the skin (S) is reached differently by repeatedly performing insertion and withdrawal operations at the same location through the transfer unit (140) (S620). The processor (152) can control the transfer unit (140) which moves the electrode unit (120) so that the target depth within the skin (S) is reached differently by repeatedly performing insertion and withdrawal operations at the same location through the multiple electrodes (121) based on the target depth information within the skin (S) input through the input unit (110). At this time, the multiple electrodes (121) can penetrate to their respective target depths within the dermis layer.

[0072] The judgment step can determine whether the plurality of electrodes (121) have each reached a different target depth through the repeated performance of insertion and removal operations via the processor (152) (S630). For example, the processor (152) can determine whether the plurality of electrodes (121) have each reached a target depth within the dermis layer.

[0073] The control step can control the energy supply unit (130) so that when a plurality of electrodes (121) each reach a different target depth through the repeated performance of insertion and removal operations via the processor (152), a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current are each applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached, and can control the drug injection unit (160) so that a drug for skin care is injected into the different target depths (S640). Here, the energy supply unit (130) can selectively apply a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current to the plurality of electrodes (121).

[0074] At this time, the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type and the second high-frequency current of the bipolar type each increase in intensity as the target depth increases, but their intensities may differ from each other. Additionally, the drug injection unit (160) can inject a drug for skin care into each target depth within the dermis layer. For example, as the target depth increases, the intensity of the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type may be greater than the intensity of the second high-frequency current of the bipolar type. That is, during the entire time that the plurality of electrodes (121) reach the target depth within the dermis layer, the intensities of the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type may be greater than the intensities of the second high-frequency current of the bipolar type. As another example, as the target depth increases, the intensity of the second high-frequency current of the bipolar type may be greater than the intensity of the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type. That is, during the entire time that multiple electrodes (121) reach a target depth within the dermis layer, the intensities of the second high-frequency currents of the bipolar type may be greater than the intensities of the first high-frequency currents of the monopolar type.

[0075] FIGS. 7 to 10 are drawings illustrating, as an example, a process of controlling a plurality of electrodes to apply a first high-frequency current, a second high-frequency current, and a first high-frequency current through respective insertion operations in the control step of FIG. 6.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 10, the control step (S641a) can determine whether the target depth is a preset first depth (TH1) by having a plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation first through the processor (152). If the target depth within the dermis layer (S1) is a preset first depth (TH1) through the processor (152), the control step (S642a) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that a monopolar type first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth (TH1). At this time, S2 may be the stratum corneum, S3 may be the epidermis layer, and S4 may be the subcutaneous tissue layer. Additionally, the control step (S642a) can control the drug injection unit (160) to inject a drug for skin care into the first depth (TH1) within the dermis layer through the processor (152).

[0077] The control step (S643a) can determine whether the target depth is a second depth (TH2) deeper than the first depth (TH1) by having the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation a second time through the processor (152). If the target depth within the dermis layer (S1) is the second depth (TH2) by the processor (152), the control step (S644a) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that a second high-frequency current of the bipolar type is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth (TH2). Additionally, the control step (S644a) can control the drug injection unit (160) by the processor (152) to inject a drug for skin care into the second depth (TH2) within the dermis layer. At this time, the amount of drug injected at the second depth (TH2) may be less or more than the amount of drug injected at the first depth (TH1).

[0078] Meanwhile, the processor (152) can control the process so that when a plurality of electrodes (121) perform a second insertion operation and the target depth reaches a preset second depth (TH2), there is a preset first resting period between the application time of a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current. Here, the first resting period is a period during which the bipolar type second high-frequency current is not applied for a preset time. By having the first resting period, the present disclosure can prevent the occurrence of skin burns in advance while maximizing the optimal skin improvement effect of the monopolar type and the bipolar type.

[0079] The control step (S645a) can determine whether the target depth is a third depth (TH3) deeper than the pre-set second depth (TH2) by having the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the third time through the processor (152). The control step (S646a) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that if the target depth within the dermis layer (S1) is the pre-set third depth (TH3) through the processor (152), a monopolar type first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth (TH3). At this time, the amount of drug injected at the third depth (TH3) may be less or more than the amount of drug injected at the second depth (TH2).

[0080] Meanwhile, the processor (152) can control the multiple electrodes (121) to perform a third insertion operation and, when the target depth reaches a preset third depth (TH3), to have a preset second resting period between the application time of the second high-frequency current of the bipolar type and the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type. Here, the second resting period is a period in which the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type is not applied for a preset time. By having the second resting period, the present disclosure can prevent the occurrence of skin burns in advance while maximizing the optimal skin improvement effect of the bipolar type and the monopolar type.

[0081] FIGS. 11 to 14 are drawings illustrating, as an example, a process of controlling a second high-frequency current, a first high-frequency current, and a second high-frequency current to be applied to a plurality of electrodes through respective insertion operations in the control step of FIG. 6.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 14, the control step (S641b) can determine whether the target depth is a preset first depth (TH1) by having a plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation first through the processor (152). The control step (S642a) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that if the target depth within the dermis layer (S1) is a preset first depth (TH1) through the processor (152), a second high-frequency current of the bipolar type is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the first depth (TH1). At this time, S2 may be the stratum corneum, S3 may be the epidermis layer, and S4 may be the subcutaneous tissue layer. Additionally, the control step (S642b) can control the drug injection unit (160) to inject a drug for skin care into the first depth (TH1) within the dermis layer through the processor (152).

[0083] The control step (S643b) can determine whether the target depth is a second depth (TH2) deeper than the first depth (TH1) by having the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation a second time through the processor (152). The control step (S644a) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that if the target depth within the dermis layer (S1) is the second depth (TH2) set through the processor (152), a monopolar type first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the second depth (TH2). Additionally, the control step (S644b) can control the drug injection unit (160) to inject a drug for skin care into the second depth (TH2) within the dermis layer through the processor (152). At this time, the amount of drug injected at the second depth (TH2) may be less or more than the amount of drug injected at the first depth (TH1).

[0084] Meanwhile, the processor (152) can control the multiple electrodes (121) to perform a second insertion operation and, when the target depth reaches a preset second depth (TH2), to have a preset third resting period between the application time of the second high-frequency current of the bipolar type and the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type. Here, the third resting period is a period in which the first high-frequency current of the monopolar type is not applied for a preset time. By having the third resting period, the present disclosure can prevent the occurrence of skin burns in advance while maximizing the optimal skin improvement effect of the bipolar type and the monopolar type.

[0085] The control step (S645b) can determine whether the target depth is a third depth (TH3) deeper than the pre-set second depth (TH2) by having the plurality of electrodes (121) perform an insertion operation for the third time through the processor (152). The control step (S646b) can control the energy supply unit (130) so that if the target depth within the dermis layer (S1) is the pre-set third depth (TH3) through the processor (152), a second high-frequency current of the bipolar type is applied to the plurality of electrodes (121) with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth (TH3). At this time, the amount of drug injected at the third depth (TH3) may be less or more than the amount of drug injected at the second depth (TH2).

[0086] Meanwhile, the processor (152) can control the process so that when the plurality of electrodes (121) perform the insertion operation for the third time and the target depth reaches a preset third depth (TH3), there is a preset fourth resting period between the application time of the monopolar type first high-frequency current and the bipolar type second high-frequency current. Here, the fourth resting period is a period in which the bipolar type second high-frequency current is not applied for a preset time, and by having the fourth resting period, the present disclosure can prevent the occurrence of skin burns in advance while maximizing the optimal skin improvement effect of the monopolar type and bipolar type.

[0087] At least one component may be added or deleted in response to the performance of the components illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, FIGS. 8 to 10, and FIGS. 12 to 14. Additionally, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the relative positions of the components may be changed in response to the performance or structure of the system.

[0088] Although FIGS. 6, 7, and 11 describe the execution of multiple steps sequentially, this is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present embodiment. A person skilled in the art to which the present embodiment belongs could modify and adapt the order described in FIGS. 6, 7, and 11, or execute one or more of the multiple steps in parallel, without departing from the essential characteristics of the present embodiment. Therefore, FIGS. 6, 7, and 11 are not limited to a chronological order.

[0089] As described above, the disclosed embodiments have been explained with reference to the attached drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure may be practiced in forms different from the disclosed embodiments without changing the technical spirit or essential features of the present disclosure. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be interpreted restrictively. Explanation of the symbols

[0090] 100: Device 110: Input section 120: Electrode section 130: Energy supply section 140: Transfer unit 150: Control unit 160: Drug infusion port

Claims

Claim 1 A device for applying monopolar and bipolar currents according to skin depth that performs repeated needle insertion operations, comprising: an electrode unit including a plurality of needle-type electrodes that repeatedly perform insertion and withdrawal operations within the skin; a drug injection unit that injects a drug into the skin; an energy supply unit that selectively applies a monopolar type first high-frequency current and a bipolar type second high-frequency current to the plurality of electrodes; a transfer unit that moves the electrode unit so that the plurality of electrodes reach different target depths within the skin by repeatedly performing the insertion and withdrawal operations at the same location; and a control unit that, when the plurality of electrodes each reach the different target depths through repeated insertion and withdrawal operations, controls the energy supply unit so that the first high-frequency current and the second high-frequency current are respectively applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached, and controls the drug injection unit so that the drug is injected into the different target depths. Claim 2 A monopolar and bipolar current application device for skin depths performing a needle repetitive insertion operation, wherein, in claim 1, the control unit controls the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit controls the energy supply unit so that the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the second depth. Claim 3 A monopolar and bipolar current application device for different skin depths that performs a needle repetitive insertion operation, wherein, in paragraph 2, the control unit controls the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the preset second depth, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the third depth. Claim 4 A monopolar and bipolar current application device for skin depths performing a needle repetitive insertion operation, wherein, in claim 1, the control unit controls the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit controls the energy supply unit so that the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the second depth. Claim 5 A monopolar and bipolar current application device for different skin depths that performs repeated needle insertion operations, wherein, in claim 4, the control unit controls the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the preset second depth, the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the third depth. Claim 6 A method for controlling a monopolar and bipolar current application device for skin depths that performs a needle repetitive insertion operation, comprising: a step of moving an electrode portion of the device through a transfer portion of the device so that a plurality of electrodes reach different target depths within the skin by repeatedly performing the insertion and withdrawal operations at the same location; a step of determining through a control portion of the device whether the plurality of electrodes have each reached the different target depths by repeatedly performing the insertion and withdrawal operations; and a step of controlling an energy supply portion of the device through a control portion of the device so that, if the plurality of electrodes have each reached the different target depths by repeatedly performing the insertion and withdrawal operations, a first high-frequency current and a second high-frequency current are each applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the different target depths reached, and controlling a drug injection portion of the device so that a drug is injected into the different target depths. Claim 7 A method for controlling a device according to claim 6, wherein the control step controls the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit is controlled so that the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the second depth. Claim 8 A method for controlling a device according to claim 7, wherein the control step controls the energy supply unit such that, when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the second depth that is preset, the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the third depth. Claim 9 A method for controlling a device according to claim 6, wherein the control step controls the energy supply unit so that when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the first time and the target depth is a preset first depth, the second high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the first depth, and when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation for the second time and the target depth is a second depth deeper than the preset first depth, the energy supply unit is controlled so that the first high-frequency current is applied to the plurality of electrodes at a current intensity corresponding to the second depth. Claim 10 A method for controlling a device according to claim 9, wherein the control step is characterized by controlling the plurality of electrodes to apply the second high-frequency current to the plurality of electrodes with a current intensity corresponding to the third depth when the plurality of electrodes perform the insertion operation a third time and the target depth is a third depth deeper than the second depth that is preset.

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