Phototherapy device

Abstract

The present invention provides a phototherapy device and a method for providing photobioregulated "phototherapy" thereof. The phototherapy device includes hardware and functionality to provide a variety of therapy procedures through a mode of operation where a specific combination of LED chips is powered to produce a customized range of spectrum to a user. Example embodiments for "stand-alone" use and embodiments for installation in architectural structures or furniture, for making garments, etc. are disclosed.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 337,165, filed on May 1, 2022, entitled “Light Therapy Device,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background Art Technical Field

[0002] The disclosure herein relates to light therapy devices. Specifically, the disclosed inventions relate to devices and methods for performing light therapy. The devices and methods combine various wavelengths, frequencies, brightness, and combinations thereof to support or improve various health states and medical conditions. Summary of the invention

[0003] Disclosed herein are embodiments of devices and methods for performing light therapy.

[0004] Low-intensity laser phototherapy ("LLLT") was discovered in 1967 by Endre Mester of Semmelweis University of Medical Sciences in Hungary. Mester attempted to replicate an experiment that had cured tumors in mice using a high-powered laser. Although the tumors failed to be cured using the low-powered laser, Mester observed improved hair growth and enhanced wound healing in the mice. This was the first demonstration that low-intensity lasers, rather than high-powered thermal lasers, could have beneficial applications.

[0005] It is now widely accepted that devices that utilize light emitting diodes ("LEDs") to illuminate living tissue can be used to obtain beneficial biological effects. As a result, the term "LLLT" has gradually been replaced in the literature by the broader term "photobiomodulation" ("PBM"). As the health benefits of PBM have become more widely known, there has been a proliferation of commercial and consumer PBM LED devices on the market.

[0006] However, existing devices are significantly limited in both light wavelength range and functionality due to inherent limitations in LED chip technology. Because the skin and subcutaneous tissue exhibit different absorption characteristics for light having wavelengths within the optical window, the literature has repeatedly shown that different wavelengths may be more (or less) suitable for different purposes. In addition, the human brain, as well as the nervous and endocrine systems, respond in complex ways when exposed to varying light spectra during the 24-hour circadian sleep-wake cycle. Other variations in brightness, exposure time, duty cycle duration and intervals, wavelength combinations, delivery methods, and how PBM therapy is delivered are also important.

[0007] Existing PBM devices, while capable of providing light therapy including limited wavelength and pulse duration combinations, lack the ability to provide a wide range of combinations of wavelength spectra and pulse durations. Therefore, there is a need for PBM therapy delivery systems and devices that can provide highly specific PBM therapy to meet the specific health needs of individual users.

[0008] Disclosed herein is a phototherapy device having the functionality to provide electromagnetic radiation in the infrared and near infrared spectrum.

[0009] The present invention discloses a phototherapy device, comprising a housing having an interior defined by at least one side and configured to mount a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) assemblies therein, wherein each LED assembly comprises a light source and a reflector, the light source being mounted on a printed circuit board; and at least one operating mode, wherein at least one operating mode comprises emitting at least one electromagnetic radiation spectrum from the plurality of LED assemblies, the electromagnetic radiation spectrum comprising spectral wavelengths between approximately six hundred nanometers (600 nm) and approximately one thousand nanometers (1,000 nm).

[0010] In some embodiments, fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies include a light source having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 630 nm. In some embodiments, fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies include a light source having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 660 nm. In some embodiments, fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies include a light source having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 810 nm. In some embodiments, fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies include a light source having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 850 nm. In some embodiments, fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies include a light source having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 940 nm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the light therapy device further comprises a computing module having at least one software algorithm resident on the memory, wherein the at least one software algorithm causes the light therapy device to perform at least one operating mode.

[0012] In some implementations, the at least one operating mode is executed in response to instructions received from a wireless remote handset having a user interface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least one operating mode includes simultaneously powering an equal number of multiple LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 630 nm, multiple LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 660 nm, multiple LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 810 nm, and multiple LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 850 nm.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one operating mode includes simultaneously powering a plurality of LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 630 nm, a plurality of LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 810 nm, and a plurality of LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 850 nm at a ratio of 2:1:1.

[0015] In some embodiments, the at least one operating mode includes simultaneously powering a plurality of LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 630 nm, a plurality of LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 660 nm, and a plurality of LED components having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 850 nm at a ratio of 1:1:2.

[0016] A light therapy device is disclosed, comprising: a module having a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) assemblies arranged in a pattern forming an array, wherein the plurality of LED assemblies are mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB); a heat sink; a cooling fan; and a transformer electrically coupled to the PCB, wherein the transformer is configured to supply power to the plurality of LED assemblies; and a housing having an interior defined by at least one side and configured to mount the plurality of modules.

[0017] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the following more detailed description of the invention and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a light therapy device;

[0019] Figure 1B is a perspective view of an example of a plurality of light therapy devices electrically and communicatively coupled together;

[0020] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an LED assembly used in some embodiments of a light therapy device;

[0021] Figure 3A -B is an example of an LED array used in some embodiments of a light therapy device;

[0022] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a module used in some embodiments of a light therapy device;

[0023] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a computing module used in some embodiments of a light therapy device;

[0024] Figure 6-16 is a chart of different examples of LED component activation wavelengths and combinations, illustrating some example embodiments of operating modes of a light therapy device; and

[0025] Fig.17 is a graph of irradiance plotted against wavelength, such as the spectrum used in six (6) separate operating modes of a phototherapy device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Disclosed herein are various embodiments of a phototherapy device and methods of using the same. The phototherapy device is configured to provide customizable photobiomodulation therapy to meet the specific treatment needs of an individual user. Various embodiments, example components, configurations, applications, and methods of using the device are discussed herein. The example embodiments discussed herein are used to illustrate example configurations and uses of the disclosed phototherapy device. Other examples and embodiments may also exist within the scope disclosed herein. definition:

[0027] As used herein, "light" refers to electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength range of about 280 nanometers ("nm") to about 3000 nm. This range includes, but is not limited to, visible light. "Visible light" refers to electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength range of about 380 nm to about 700 nm.

[0028] "Red light" as used herein refers to visible light having a wavelength range between about 600 nm and about 700 nm.

[0029] "Infrared light" as used herein refers to electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength range between about 1000 nm and about 3000 nm.

[0030] "Near infrared light" as used herein refers to electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength range between about 700 nm and about 1000 nm.

[0031] "Spectral radiation" as used herein refers to electromagnetic radiation that includes multiple wavelengths. Multiple wavelengths may include different amplitudes (eg, brightness) than other wavelengths in the spectrum.

[0032] "Wavelength" as used herein refers to the wavelength of peak intensity of emitted electromagnetic radiation within a larger spectrum of wavelengths (ie, spectral radiation) emitted from a source, such as a light emitting diode (LED) chip.

[0033] Embodiments of the light therapy device disclosed herein are configured to provide PBM light therapy by using different operating modes. Embodiments of the light therapy device include a plurality of LED assemblies housed in a housing. Each LED assembly is formed by at least one LED light source and a reflector mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The LED source is a semiconductor "chip" that produces LED light with different spectra of constituent peak wavelengths. One or more LED sources are housed in a single reflector to form an LED assembly. In some embodiments, the LED assembly includes two LED chips, each chip producing a different spectrum of red, near-infrared (NIR) or infrared (IR) wavelengths within a spectral window that is different from the other LED sources or sources housed by the reflector.

[0034] In some embodiments, the light therapy device can include any number of LED assemblies that is a multiple of four. Some non-limiting examples include 36, 60, 72, 108, 120, 144, and 180 LED assemblies.

[0035] In some embodiments, the LED assemblies are organized into an LED array. As used herein, an array is a shape formed by multiple LED assemblies arranged in a repeating pattern on a PCB. In some embodiments, the array is formed by LED assemblies arranged diagonally, circularly, or in other repeating patterns.

[0036] In some embodiments, the LED assemblies are organized into modules. A module is an independent functional unit for a light therapy device, having a PCB board, an array of LED assemblies, a cooling system, and a power supply separate from other modules. Multiple modules can be combined in any combination, depending on the size and intended configuration of the light therapy device. For example, an embodiment of a light therapy device can include exactly one, two, three, four, or more individual modules.

[0037] The module includes an array of LED components mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). In some embodiments, the module also includes a mechanism for dissipating heat, such as a heat sink and a cooling fan. In some embodiments, the module includes one or more power transformers dedicated to the power components of the module, such as the LED components and the cooling fan.

[0038] The module is mounted in the housing. In some embodiments, the housing includes a bottom, a front, and one or more sides. The sides can be configured to mount a user interface, a power cord plug, a mechanical power supply or other switch, etc. In some embodiments, the housings can be coupled to each other physically, electrically, and communicatively in any combination.

[0039] Selection of an operating mode allows the user to receive treatment with one or more light spectrums by activating LED sources having specific light spectrums, combinations of light spectrums, cycle durations, etc. In some embodiments, the light therapy device can be programmed to provide a combination of one, two, or three of the red, near infrared, and infrared light spectrums, alone or in various combinations, depending on the operating mode selected to achieve the treatment goal.

[0040] The following introduction and discussion of the several figures will describe in detail several example embodiments contemplated by the present disclosure.

[0041] Go to the attached picture, Figure 1A is a perspective view of a light therapy device 100 . Figure 1A A light therapy device 100 is shown, including a bottom portion 103 and a front portion 104. The bottom portion 103 is substantially parallel to and opposite the front portion 104. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 103 and the front portion 104 are connected together to form a housing 102 by one or more side surfaces 105. The side surfaces 105 separate the front portion 104 and the bottom portion 103 of the housing 102.

[0042] In some embodiments, housing 102 includes one or more threaded hanger bolts 114 configured to remove device 100 from a building structure wall, door frame, etc. In some embodiments, housing 102 includes a first surface feature (not shown) disposed on side 105 configured to interact with a second corresponding surface feature disposed on side 105 of a second device. In this manner, multiple devices can be physically combined in various sizes and dimensions to form a larger light therapy device for a particular building space.

[0043] The housing 102 is configured to receive and mount one or more LED array modules 120 within an interior space defined and defined by the bottom 103, the front 104, and the sides 105. Materials used to form the housing 102 include sheet steel, aluminum, and other suitable metals and metal alloys used to manufacture electrical equipment housings and cabinets. Heat-resistant plastics, such as those used in automotive and aerospace applications, such as Acetal (polyoxymethylene), (polyvinylidene fluoride), PEEK (polyetheretherketone). ABS and other plastics that lack heat resistance and electrical resistance properties are not suitable.

[0044] like Figure 1A As shown, the front portion 104 includes a plurality of openings 113 through which the LED components are aligned. The specific configuration of the openings 113 of the front portion 104 corresponds to the LED component array pattern, so the openings can be formed into rows and columns (e.g. Figure 1A-B), or other configurations, and are not limited thereto. In some embodiments, the inner surface (not shown) of the bottom 103 is configured with mounting features for mounting a printed circuit board 112 carrying a plurality of LED assemblies 111.

[0045] The housing 102 may take a variety of forms and configurations, including panels such as Figure 1A As shown. One or more panels can be installed in an enclosed space, such as a compartment. In some embodiments, two or more panels can be connected together by interactive surface features on corresponding sides 103 provided between one or more panels. The panel can be flat, as shown in Figure 1, but this is not restrictive. In some embodiments, the panel is curved. The curved panel can be integrated in an enclosed space in which a user lies, similar to a sunbed. In some embodiments, the housing 102 includes one or more feet 106. In some embodiments, the housing 102 includes a bracket configured to allow the user to place the device 100 on a table, floor or other flat surface. The bracket can be configured to position the device 100 at an angle that can be adjusted to optimize the angle of electromagnetic radiation incident from the device 100 to the user's body surface. In some embodiments, the housing 102 is configured to be installed on a surface in a building or residence, such as a wall or ceiling. In some embodiments, the housing 102 is configured to be installed on or contained in furniture, such as a headboard.

[0046] In some embodiments (not shown), the housing 102 is formed of a flexible material, such as a soft plastic, fabric, textile, etc. The use of a flexible material enables the light therapy device 100 to be configured as a wearable item, such as a belt worn against the user's skin near the chest or abdomen. The wearable item can also be a garment, such as a shirt or vest. In these and some other embodiments, the side 105 is formed by a strip of material coupled to the front 104 and the bottom 103. In some embodiments, the side 105 is formed by an extension or reflection of the material forming the front 104 or the bottom 103.

[0047] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of multiple phototherapy devices electrically and communicatively coupled together. Figure 1B Four separate devices 100 are shown with a common power source ("power input"). In some embodiments, the light therapy devices 100 are powered by an external power source, such as a 110 or 120 volt A / C household power outlet (not shown) that provides at least about 360 watts of power. In some embodiments, multiple devices 100 can be electrically coupled together in series or "daisy chained" by connecting a power output connector 141 on a first device 100 to a power input connector 140 of a second device 100, such as Figure 1BIn some embodiments, either or both of the power input connector 141 or the power output connector 141 are mounted on the side 105, the bottom 103, or the front 104 of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the light therapy device 100 includes a data input port 142 and a data output port 143 mounted on the housing 102, such as Figure 1B In some embodiments, the data input port 142, the data output port 143, or both the port 142 and the port 143 are standard telephone jacks. In some embodiments, one or both of the ports 142 and 143 can be an Ethernet connector jack, a coaxial cable jack, or other wired data communication jack. In some embodiments, one or both of the ports 142 and 143 are mounted on the bottom 103 or the front 104 of the housing 102.

[0048] Figure 2 1 is a perspective view of the LED assembly 111. Figure 2 As shown, the LED assembly 111 includes one or more LED chips 110 mounted on a PCB 112. LED chips are semiconductor devices known in the art that, when powered by a current source, produce light having a given spectrum, the light having a peak wavelength or a "color" within a range of wavelengths. In some embodiments, in each assembly 111 included in the light therapy device 100, the LED assembly 111 includes exactly two (2) LED chips 110. During any of several specific operating modes discussed as examples herein, while a first LED chip 110 in one assembly 111 is powered ("on"), a second LED chip 111 in the same assembly may not receive power ("off") in a given operating mode. This arrangement enhances the functionality of the device 111 compared to existing light therapy devices, enabling multiple operating modes discussed herein.

[0049] In the embodiments discussed herein, only one LED chip 110 in a single assembly 111 will receive power ("on") at any time. For example, in an LED assembly 110 having a first LED chip 110 of one color and a second LED chip 110 of a second color, either color will be "on" and the other color will be "off," or both colors will be "off," depending on the operating mode selected by the user. In some embodiments, the PCB board 112 is configured to provide power to each individual LED chip 110, rather than to each individual LED assembly 111, so that powering an assembly 111 does not require that all of the multiple LED chips 110 included in the assembly 111 be "on" or "off" at the same time.

[0050] In some embodiments, the two LED chips 110 of each component 111 include two different colors, alternating with adjacent components 111 having LED chips 110 of another two different colors; that is, the light therapy device 100 includes four different (having four different peak wavelengths - four different spectra of colors, each component 111 arranged two colors at a time on two adjacent components 111) LED chip colors. In some embodiments, the number of LED chips 100 of each color in a single light therapy device 100 is equal, but this is not limiting. In some embodiments, the number of LED chips 110 of two, three, four or more different colors is not equal. In embodiments of light therapy devices 100 having the same number of LED chip color types, the relative amounts of different LED chip 110 types are expressed as percentages (e.g., 25% first color; 25% second color; 25% third color; and 25% fourth color) or as ratios (e.g., 1:1:1:1) throughout the disclosure herein. In certain embodiments of the light therapy device 100, the number of colors of the LED chips 110 is not equal, and can be expressed in relative amounts to reflect the unequal amounts; for example, 25%; 25%; 0; 50% or 1:1:0:2, etc. In embodiments where each component 111 has LED chips 110 of more than one color, the relative amounts of the chip colors do not have to equal the number of LED components 111.

[0051] Reflector 108 is coupled to LED chip 110. In some embodiments, lens 109 (e.g. Figure 2 108 is aligned with the reflector 108 in the absence of the housing 102, is mounted on the opening 113 of the front portion 104 of the housing 102, aligned with the reflector 108 or coupled to the reflector 108. In some embodiments, the reflector 108 is a truncated cone having a reflective inner surface that defines a space between the LED chip 110 and the opening 113. The reflector 108 is configured to confine the electromagnetic radiation generated by the LED chip 110 within the space and reflect the electromagnetic radiation through the opening 113. The materials used to form the reflector 108 include any relatively lightweight, heat-resistant plastic with a reflective inner surface known in the art of electronic device manufacturing.

[0052] The lens 106 may or may not be a component of the LED assembly 111, depending on the specific embodiment of the light therapy device 100. Thus, in some embodiments of the light therapy device 100 having a mix of multiple LED chip spectra contained within the LED array 107, any LED assembly 111 may not include a lens 109. Some embodiments of the light therapy device 100 will have a lens 109 coupled to all of the LED assemblies. In other non-limiting examples, half of the total number of LED assemblies 111 in the LED array 107 will include a lens 109. In some embodiments, one quarter of the total number of LED assemblies 111 in the LED array 107 will include a lens 109. In some embodiments, every other LED assembly 111 in a horizontal row of the LED array 107 will include a lens 109. In some embodiments, every third LED assembly 111 in a horizontal row of the LED array 107 will include a lens 109. In some embodiments, every fourth LED assembly 111 in a horizontal row of the LED array 107 will include a lens 109. And so on.

[0053] Figure 3A -B is a schematic diagram of the LED array. Figure 3A -B shows examples of two possible configurations of the LED array 107. Figure 3A As shown, the array 107 can be formed by a plurality of LED assemblies 111 arranged in horizontal rows and vertical columns. Figure 3B As shown, in some other embodiments, the array 107 is formed of LED assemblies 111 that are horizontally aligned and vertically staggered in alternating rows. Figure 3A The array 107 configuration shown in FIG. 1B is provided as an example only. Other configurations of LED assemblies 111 arranged into the LED array 107 are contemplated by the disclosure herein.

[0054] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of modules used in some embodiments of a light therapy device. Figure 4Module 120 is shown, and in some embodiments, module 120 has an LED array 107 mounted on a single PCB 112, which is thermally coupled to a heat sink 122. In some embodiments, the heat sink 122 is thermally coupled to the PCB 112 by mounting the heat sink 122 and the PCB 112 together to an aluminum mounting plate inside the housing 102. The heat sink 122 is formed into a series of fin-shaped elements from a material with high thermal inertia, typically aluminum, to maximize the heat dissipation surface area. Heat sinks for PCB boards and other elements of electronic devices are widely available and known in the art. In some embodiments, a cooling fan 121 is configured to circulate air in and around the heat sink 122. In some embodiments, the cooling fan 121 is mounted on the bottom 103, above the vent (not shown), and the size of the bottom 103 generally corresponds to the size of the fan 121 and the blade span diameter. The cooling fan 121 operates to draw outside air into the housing 102 via the vents, blow the cool outside air across the heat sink 122, and out of the housing through holes (not shown) formed in the side 105. In this manner, heat generated by resistors and infrared radiation spectrum from the LED chip 110, transformer 123 (which powers the LED chip 110, as described below), and other electronic components is removed from the housing 102. Any number of commercially available fans used in desktop computers and electronic devices known and used in the electronics field can be used as the cooling fan 121.

[0055] In some embodiments of the device 100 having multiple modules 120 and corresponding multiple cooling fans 121, it is desirable to have a power supply that is electrically independent from the transformer 123 (which drives power to the LED chips 110 through the PCB 112). An example is a commercially available 12V DC cooling fan power supply, such as that used in desktop computers. Depending on the number of modules 120 used in the light therapy device 100 and the number of cooling fans 121 per module 120, one or more cooling fan power supplies are used.

[0056] In some embodiments, the module 120 includes a dedicated transformer 123 that is electrically coupled to the PCB 112 to provide power to the plurality of LED chips 110 on the PCB 112. A commercially available LED driver, such as a 60W, 22.5V LED driver, is a non-limiting example of the transformer 123. In some embodiments, a plurality of cooling fans 121 that cool a single module 120 or a plurality of separate modules 120 are powered by the same power source independent of the transformer 123.

[0057] In some embodiments, a module 120 is a functional unit of the light therapy device 100. Embodiments of the light therapy device 100 can include one or more modules 120. In some embodiments, the device 100 includes exactly two (2) modules 120. In some embodiments, the device 100 includes exactly four (4) modules 120. In some embodiments, the device 100 includes exactly six (6) modules 120.

[0058] In some embodiments, multiple modules 120 can be mounted generally coplanar to the housing 102, as shown in Figure 1. In some other embodiments (not shown), multiple modules 120 can be arranged at an angle to other modules 120 within the same light therapy device 100, such as on two or more light therapy device panels mounted in an enclosed space such as a treatment room or mounted to adjacent walls of a building structure. Operation Mode:

[0059] Embodiments of the light therapy device 100 can be configured to provide different combinations of light spectrums to a user, thereby enabling many different therapies to be provided using a single device 100. For example, a user may wish to be treated with light within the NIR spectral band to obtain a specific therapeutic effect, for example, using light in the visible red band to obtain a different specific therapeutic effect. In some cases, a user may seek to be treated with two different peak spectra of NIR radiation during the same treatment. In some cases, a user may wish to combine shorter wavelength red light outside of the NIR spectrum with the NIR spectrum using a single device 100. In some embodiments, a user may wish to combine the IR spectrum with either or both of the IR and red light spectra. Accordingly, some embodiments of the light therapy device 100 are configured to provide the user with a selection of operating modes 126 based on the user's therapeutic needs.

[0060] Down Table 1Examples of possible operating modes 126 for some embodiments of a light therapy device 100 having an LED array 107 using different combinations of LED assemblies are detailed. The embodiments listed in Table 1 incorporate LED assemblies of four (4) example wavelengths: 630 nm; 660 nm; 810 nm; and 850 nm. In some embodiments, an LED chip 110 emitting a peak spectrum centered about 940 nm replaces the LED chip 110 listed in the table having a peak spectrum centered about 850 nm. Reasons for this and other substitutions include, for example, the evidence that exposure to certain wavelengths of infrared light, including light of about 940 nm, prior to use of a tanning bed or similar sunbathing facility can partially protect against sunburn upon subsequent exposure to ultraviolet light. The "Chip Wavelength" column in Table 1 lists the approximate peak spectral wavelength of peak intensity in the spectrum produced by any given LED chip 110, and the "Percentage" column lists the percentage of the total LED assemblies 111 of the device 100 that are illuminated during treatment using the listed operating mode. Table 1

[0061] In some embodiments, the device 100 includes two LED chips 110 with different wavelength spectra in each LED assembly 111, and is electronically configured to allow the use of eleven (11) different modes. In some embodiments, each LED assembly 111 of the device 100 includes two colors of LED chips 110, and is configured to allow the use of seven (7) different modes. This is by way of example only. Other combinations of chip wavelength spectra for each LED array 107 are possible, and multiple different modes are included within the scope of the disclosed invention.

[0062] In some example embodiments, the operating mode can include activating one or more LED chips 110, each LED chip 110 having an output of at least about 1,000 milliwatts per nanometer (mW / nm) at about 630 nm and about 670 nm simultaneously.

[0063] Figure 6-16 is a chart of different examples of LED assembly 111 activation wavelengths and combinations in some example embodiments of operating modes 126 of light therapy device 100. Note that in the examples shown in several of the figures, each LED assembly 111 includes two (2) wavelengths; i.e., Fig.16 The first row / first column includes a 660 nm LED chip 110 and an 850 nm LED chip 110 . Figure 6-16Examples of different operating modes of an LED array 107 are shown, the array including twelve rows and six columns of LED components 111, which are configured so that each component 111 is aligned with a corresponding component 111 in any adjacent row and any adjacent column. In some embodiments, two (2) modules 120 form the twelve rows and six columns of the example array 107 shown in the figures. Each figure depicts a different operating mode 126 that is different from the modes 126 shown in the other figures. The shading in the blocks indicates that the LED chips 110 having the wavelength shown are powered in the specific mode 126 shown in the figure.

[0064] like Figure 6-16 As shown, in some embodiments, all LED chips 110 in any shaded (non-white) box emit light in this pattern for the entire duration of treatment, where the light therapy device 100 is operating in the specific mode 126 shown in the figure. Figure 6-16 Eleven different operating modes 126 are shown, numbered 1-11. For example, Figure 6 Displays operation mode 126#1, Figure 7 Displays operation mode 126#2, Figure 8 Operation mode 126#3 is displayed, and so on until Fig.16 Operation mode 126#11 is shown. In some embodiments, the device 100 continuously cycles through multiple different operation modes 126 at set intervals. For example, in some embodiments, the user can set the device 100 to sequentially cycle through operation mode 126 (#3), mode 126 (#7), and mode 126 (#10) in increments of one minute. In some embodiments, the increments are longer than one minute, such as ninety seconds, two minutes, five minutes, etc. In some embodiments, the lengths of the increments are the same. In some embodiments, the lengths of the increments are different and can be combined in any way. In some embodiments, after completing a full cycle, the device 100 cycles through multiple modes 126 selected by the user one or more times. As described in this paragraph, "duration" is the first parameter of the operation mode 126. Other parameters (i.e., second parameters, third parameters, etc.) include brightness, intensity, etc., as described in the examples below.

[0065] Although Table 1 and Figure 6-16The operating modes 126 are described in terms of relative percentages of powered LED chips 110 of given peak spectral wavelengths, but these percentages may be replaced by ratio representations. For example, operating mode 126 (#1) includes powering chip 110 with peak wavelength intensities of 630nm, 660nm, 810nm and 850nm at a ratio of 1:1:1:1; mode 126 (#2) is 1:1:0:0; mode 126 (#3) is 0:2:1:1; mode 126 (#4) is 2:0:1:1; mode 126 (#5) is 1:1:0:2; mode 126 (#6) is 1:1:2:0; mode 126 (#7) is 0:2:0:0; mode 126 (#8) is 2:0:0:0; mode 126 (#9) is 0:0:0:2; mode 126 (#10) is 0:0:2:0; and operating mode 126 (#11) is 0:0:2:2.

[0066] In some embodiments, mode 126 is configured to change a second parameter in addition to duration. In some embodiments, the second parameter is the brightness of chip 100. In some embodiments, LED chips 110 having the same first wavelength emit light at a first brightness, while LED chips 110 having the same second wavelength emit light at a second brightness. In some embodiments, additional parameters can be added to operating mode 126. In some embodiments, programming different parameters such as intensity and duration in different combinations can be used to simulate the changing solar spectrum during sunrise and sunset. In this example, this therapy can help the user wake up in the morning. Alternatively, in some embodiments, operating mode 126 can be set to help the user "relax" at the end of the day, thereby promoting a more restful and healthier night's sleep. By changing the values ​​of the first parameter, the second parameter, etc. in different combinations, the user is able to achieve a high level of light therapy customization through device 100.

[0067] By viewing the spectra of multiple modes 126 superimposed on a single graph, a clearer understanding can be achieved. Figure 6-16 The different modes of operation are outlined in 126. Therefore, Fig.17 is a graph of irradiance plotted against wavelength, such as the spectrum used in six (6) separate operating modes of a phototherapy device. Fig.17 Example spectra for multiple operating modes 126 are shown ( Figure 6-16Six separate curves are shown on the graph, each representing an operating mode 126. Each curve has four peaks, representing the listed peak wavelengths of (approximately) 630nm, 660nm, 810nm, and 850nm. The relative luminosity (i.e., the height of the curve on the y-axis "spectral irradiance") reflects the ratio of the number of active LED chips 110 of the listed wavelength to the number of LED chips 110 of the other three wavelengths in the particular operating mode 126 (#1, #2, ... #6) represented by the curve. Figure 6-16 By studying Fig.17 As can be seen from the curves in these examples and some embodiments, different operating modes 126 have different emission levels in the red-NIR-IR spectral range, ranging from about 580nm to about 900nm. Therefore, a user can select a specific operating mode 126 to emphasize light therapy at a specific wavelength, the intensity of a specific wavelength relative to other wavelengths, etc. In addition to varying the intensity (emission) around a specific wavelength, in some embodiments of the light therapy device 100, the user can select additional parameters, such as duration and other parameters discussed herein.

[0068] For example, in some embodiments, the light therapy device 100 includes a computing module 110 (e.g. Figure 5 126). The algorithm includes instructions stored in the memory 132 and used by the processor 131 to execute one or more operating modes 126. For example, in some embodiments, the algorithm powers the array 107 (or multiple arrays 107) of LED chips 110 through the computing module 110 to provide varying spectral exposures during the course of a day. At sunrise, the spectral ratio of longer infrared wavelengths to shorter red light wavelengths is different from that at noon and also different from that at sunset. Therefore, in some embodiments, the light therapy device 100 will execute the programmed algorithm so that the light therapy device provides a first early morning spectral ratio, switches to a noon spectral ratio later, and then completes the treatment process with a sunset / night spectral ratio. The "spectral ratio" created by the selected mode 126 can be initially selected, changed, or otherwise modified as needed to address specific treatment goals, such as improving sleep quality, enhancing muscle recovery after exercise or resistance training, improving alertness or attention, etc. Therefore, in some embodiments, the light therapy device 100 maximizes the pre-treatment and repair benefits of red light, NIR, and IR PBM. The computing module of the device 100 is configured to add, delete, modify and execute various treatment algorithms.The above description is provided by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting. control:

[0069] Some embodiments of the device 100 include a computing module for processing control commands and monitoring the device 100. In addition, regardless of whether the embodiment includes a computing module, a user interface is provided for controlling various aspects of the operation of the light therapy device 100. The user interface enables a user to execute commands to control power, operating mode 126, treatment duration, treatment time (of day), and other functions. The user interface can take the form of a conventional mechanical power switch, a touch pad, wireless control, or some combination of the above.

[0070] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the computing module 130 . Figure 5 A computing module 130 is shown having a processor 131 , a memory 132, a communication interface 133, and a user interface 134. Only some embodiments of the apparatus 100 include the computing module 130. Figure 5 The arrow lines in represent the information flow between the various components of the computing module 130 and the display 135 .

[0071] In some embodiments, the user interface 124 is a touch control panel mounted on the housing 102. The control panel may include mechanical switches, pressure switches, a touch screen, or other control interface elements. The user may access and select various operating modes 126 directly from the user interface.

[0072] In some embodiments, processor 131 is a commercial microprocessor that is widely used in consumer electronic device control systems and is known in the art. Processor 131 executes instructions received directly from user interface 134, or from a combination of user interface 134 and memory 132, according to software stored in memory 132. In some embodiments, memory 132 includes any combination of random access (cache) memory (RAM) and non-RAM "main" memory.

[0073] In some embodiments, the display 135 is physically located on a control panel or other user interface 133. In some embodiments, the display 135 displays a specific mode 126 selected by the user and executed by the computing module 130. For example, the user can select "Mode 11" (as shown in Table 1 above) through the user interface 133, and the display 135 will display "810nm-850nm". The display 135 can take different forms depending on the embodiment of the treatment device 100. In some embodiments, the display 135 is a simple and conventional light emitting diode (LED) or liquid crystal display (LCD) panel mounted on the housing 102. In some embodiments, the display 135 is a computer display screen that is communicatively coupled to the processor 131 via a wired or wireless connection. In some embodiments, the display 135 is a touch screen on a smartphone or other handheld device. In some embodiments, the display 135 is a remote handheld device that is a combination of a handheld display and a user interface 134. Examples of remote handheld devices can include remote controls, smartphones, tablets, or other handheld computing devices with applications or "apps", etc. In some embodiments, the handheld device can communicate with the processor 131 via a wired connection or a wireless connection. Non-limiting examples of wireless connections include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi networks, and the like.

[0074] In some embodiments, the software stored in the memory 132 includes code to control the power supply of the PCB 112 and the LED chips 110, some of which receive power while other chips 110 are not powered. In some embodiments, the chips 110 are powered on and off in sequence according to the specific operating mode 126 selected by the user. In some embodiments, the software stored in the memory 132 includes one or more algorithms to guide the specific operating mode 126 selected by the user. Additional software can be installed on an additional memory or a "second memory" in a remote computing device to communicate wirelessly with the computing module 130 via Bluetooth or other wireless platforms. In some embodiments, there is data about use, such as duration, specific frequency, and similar data specific to the mode 126 used and the user's cumulative exposure to different spectra. In some embodiments, data about cumulative exposure time and amount can be used to protect user safety.

[0075] In some embodiments, software code resident on memory 132 can exclude accessibility to certain modes 126 to ensure user safety. The user can activate or deactivate exclusion criteria as desired through user interface 132. An example of such an exclusion is one or more operating modes 126 that completely contain near infrared ("NIR") light. A non-limiting example is "Mode 11" (of operating modes 126) shown in Table 1 above. In some embodiments, this and other safety features are desirable because repeated, high-intensity exposure to infrared light has been shown to cause cataract-like changes in the lens of the eye of humans and other mammals.

[0076] The embodiments and examples presented herein are intended to best explain the present invention and its practical application, thereby enabling one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present invention. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the foregoing description and examples are presented for purposes of illustration and example. The described description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed. In view of the above teachings, many modifications and variations may be made.

Claims

1. A phototherapy device, comprising: a housing having an interior defined by at least one side and configured to mount a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) assemblies therein, wherein each LED assembly includes an LED chip and a reflector, the LED chip being mounted on a printed circuit board; as well as At least one operating mode, wherein the at least one operating mode includes emitting at least one electromagnetic radiation spectrum from the plurality of LED assemblies, the electromagnetic radiation spectrum including a peak spectral wavelength between about six hundred nanometers (600 nm) and about one thousand nanometers (1,000 nm).

2. The light therapy device of claim 1, wherein fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies comprise LED chips having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 630 nm.

3. The light therapy device of any one of claims 1-2, wherein fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies comprise LED chips having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 660 nm.

4. The light therapy device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies comprise LED chips having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 810 nm.

5. The light therapy device of any one of claims 1-4, wherein fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies comprise LED chips having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 850 nm.

6. The light therapy device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein fifty percent (50%) of the plurality of LED assemblies comprise LED chips having a peak intensity wavelength of approximately 940 nm.

7. The light therapy device of any one of claims 1-6, further comprising a computing module having at least one software algorithm resident on a memory, wherein: The at least one software algorithm causes the light therapy device to execute at least one operating mode.

8. The phototherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The at least one operating mode is executed in response to instructions received from a wireless remote handset having a user interface.

9. The phototherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The at least one operating mode includes simultaneously powering an equal number of multiple LED assemblies with a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 630nm, multiple LED assemblies with a peak intensity of approximately 660nm, multiple LED assemblies with a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 810nm, and multiple LED assemblies with a peak intensity of approximately 850nm.

10. The phototherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The at least one operating mode includes simultaneously powering a plurality of LED assemblies having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 630 nm, a plurality of LED assemblies having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 810 nm, and a plurality of LED assemblies having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 850 nm in a ratio of 2:1:

1.

11. The phototherapy device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The at least one operating mode includes simultaneously powering a plurality of LED assemblies having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 630 nm, a plurality of LED assemblies having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 660 nm, and a plurality of LED assemblies having a peak wavelength intensity of approximately 850 nm in a ratio of 1:1:

2.

12. A phototherapy device, comprising: A module having a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) assemblies arranged in a pattern forming an array, wherein the plurality of LED assemblies are mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB), heat sink, cooling fans, and a transformer electrically coupled to the PCB, wherein the transformer is configured to provide power to the plurality of LED assemblies; and A housing has an interior defined by at least one side and is configured to mount a plurality of modules.

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