Lighting device for photodynamic therapy, method of treating skin diseases and method of operating lighting device

Abstract

A lighting device for photodynamic therapy, the lighting device comprising at least two electromagnetic radiation emitting units, the at least two electromagnetic radiation emitting units comprising at least one electromagnetic radiation source configured to generate radiation for irradiating an area of an irradiated object in a lighting session, the irradiation object is to be arranged at an object location, where the object location is arranged at a distance from a radiation output region of the radiation emitting unit through which radiation generated by the at least one electromagnetic radiation source exits the radiation emitting unit during operation of the lighting device.

Description

[0001] Specification

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an illumination device for photodynamic therapy. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method for operating the illumination device, a method for treating skin diseases, and a computer program product and a computer-readable medium.

[0003] Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been widely studied and several methods have been successfully used for treatment. Generally, PDT has three requirements: a photosensitizer, molecular oxygen, and light of a specific wavelength. For dermatological PDT, a prodrug (such as aminolevulinic acid (ALA)) is typically topically applied to the skin. Subsequently, the prodrug is converted by cells (such as tumor cells) into the actual photosensitizer. The molecular mechanism of action in PDT is based on cellular ALA uptake, synthesis, and accumulation of the photosensitizer, which, in the presence of oxygen, can be excited by light of a specific wavelength, leading to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS can trigger cell death, for example, in the form of apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagy.

[0004] However, one of the main problems hindering the widespread acceptance of PDT by patients is the relatively high degree of pain that patients experience during illumination, ranging from mild inconvenience to severe pain to the extent that treatment has to be aborted. Furthermore, although PDT is a very effective treatment method, recurrence of some diseases such as actinic keratosis is common, so that although patients have been successfully treated, different lesions subsequently appear in different skin areas and medical intervention is required again. In addition, some patients are not completely cured after a single PDT treatment and require a second treatment. If the first PDT they receive is very painful, the chance of starting or completing a second PDT is small, although PDT offers the best efficacy compared to other treatment options. Therefore, the willingness of many patients to undergo treatment or retreatment is reduced. This clearly has a significant negative impact on single PDT and PDT as a whole.

[0005] In addition, the efficacy of PDT is also limited by any of the relevant factors, namely the photosensitizer, oxygen, and light. A reduction in the availability of any of these factors may hinder the formation of ROS. Optimized drug forms, pretreatment, and incubation methods can ensure proper and sufficient deposition of the photosensitizer. Nevertheless, the amount of light reaching the molecules must be sufficient and oxygen needs to be present as an energy acceptor.

[0006] In particular, illumination light of an appropriate wavelength needs to be provided in a sufficient dose to activate the corresponding photosensitizer. For topical applications, a commonly used photosensitizer is protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), which is mainly produced in skin cells by applying precursor molecules such as ALA. PpIX can be activated by light of various different wavelengths, among which red light (about 635 nm), blue light (about 420 nm), yellow light (about 542 nm), or green light (about 506 nm) are the most commonly used. Generally, the radiation dose received by the target (e.g., the skin being treated) depends on three main factors: the irradiance provided by the illumination device, the distance between the target area and the illumination device, and the duration of illumination.

[0007] Current practice is to apply the entire radiation dose in short time intervals (e.g., 7 to 12 minutes for red light and 15 - 20 minutes for blue light). Generally, this method is limited by the occurrence of pain in patients. In addition, photo - bleaching of the photosensitizer may occur to a greater extent at higher light intensities and may limit the treatment efficiency. Photo - bleaching describes the effect of the inactivation of the photosensitizer due to the permanent destruction of its chemical structure (e.g., the breaking of covalent bonds). This photo - bleaching effect may be consistent with the temporary hypoxia of the target tissue due to a large number of initial reactions. This leads to a rapid reduction in the oxygen required for ROS formation. All photo - bleaching that occurs during the stage of limited oxygen may be ineffective because it produces less cytotoxic singlet oxygen.

[0008] It should be noted that the above statements should not be construed as admitted prior art. They are only used to illustrate the background of the currently disclosed concepts and may not have been made publicly available.

[0009] One objective to be achieved is to provide an improved illumination device for photodynamic therapy. Another objective to be achieved is to provide a method for treating skin diseases using such an illumination device. Another objective to be achieved is to provide a method for operating such an illumination device.

[0010] Each of the objectives can be achieved in particular by the subject matter of claims 1, 44, and 47. Advantageous embodiments and other improvements are the subject matter of the dependent claims. However, in addition to the currently claimed concepts, other advantageous concepts are also disclosed herein.

[0011] First, the illumination device will be described in more detail.

[0012] According to at least one embodiment, a lighting device includes at least one electromagnetic radiation emitting unit (also referred to herein as a "radiation emitting unit"). "At least one" means that the lighting device may include one or more radiation emitting units, such as two or more radiation emitting units. All of the features disclosed hereinafter for one radiation emitting unit apply equally to all other radiation emitting units of the lighting device, or only to some of the radiation emitting units of the device. The radiation or light emitted by the radiation emitting unit is, for example, radiation in the visible wavelength region.

[0013] According to at least one embodiment, the electromagnetic radiation emitting unit includes at least one electromagnetic radiation source (also referred to herein as a "radiation source"). This means that the electromagnetic radiation emitting unit may include one or more electromagnetic radiation sources. All of the features disclosed hereinafter for one electromagnetic radiation source apply equally to all electromagnetic radiation sources of the radiation emitting unit or the lighting device, or only to some of the radiation sources.

[0014] According to at least one embodiment, at least one radiation source is an optoelectronic component, such as a light emitting diode (LED) and / or a surface mountable component. All of the features disclosed so far and hereinafter for at least one radiation source apply equally to all or some of the radiation sources of the lighting device.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation source may emit radiation of the same or similar peak wavelength, such as radiation of the same color, such as red light (635 nm ± 4 nm), blue light (420 nm ± 4 nm), yellow light (542 nm ± 4 nm), or green light (506 nm ± 4 nm).

[0016] According to at least one embodiment, the emission spectrum of the optoelectronic component has a peak wavelength in one of the following ranges: 634 nm ± 4 nm, 634 nm ± 5 nm, 635 nm ± 4 nm, 635 nm ± 5 nm, 542 nm ± 4 nm, 542 nm ± 5 nm, 506 nm ± 4 nm, 506 nm ± 5 nm, 420 nm ± 4 nm, 420 nm ± 5 nm. In particular, the peak wavelength is obtained when the operating temperature of the optoelectronic component is below 50 °C (e.g., at 25 °C) and the operating current is from 100 mA to 1000 mA (including the endpoints). The half bandwidth of the spectrum is, for example, at least 10 nm and / or at most 20 nm, for example 16 nm.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment, an electromagnetic radiation source is configured to generate radiation for irradiating an area of an irradiated object (also referred to herein as the "irradiation area") during an illumination session. Thus, the electromagnetic radiation source is an element of a radiation emitting unit that generates the radiation emitted by the electromagnetic radiation emitting unit. The irradiated object is, for example, a mammal, such as a human. The irradiation area of the irradiated object is, for example, an area of a person's skin. For example, the illumination session lasts at most 120 minutes, at most 80 minutes, at most 60 minutes, at most 40 minutes, at most 30 minutes, for example 20 minutes or less.

[0018] According to at least one embodiment, the duration of the entire illumination session is less than or equal to one of the following values: 25 minutes, 24 minutes, 23 minutes, 22 minutes, 21 minutes, 20 minutes, 19 minutes, 18 minutes, 17 minutes, 16 minutes, 15 minutes, 14 minutes, 13 minutes. A user typically accepts a session duration of up to 25 minutes (e.g., 22 minutes). Additionally or alternatively, the duration of the entire illumination session is greater than or equal to one of the following values: 10 minutes, 11 minutes, 12 minutes, 13 minutes. The session duration can be from 10 minutes to 25 minutes, for example 18 minutes or 22 minutes.

[0019] According to at least one embodiment, for example during the illumination session, the irradiated object is to be arranged at a predetermined object position. The predetermined object position is preferably a spatial area or a point in space that is spaced apart from the lighting device and / or the radiation emitting unit. During the intended operation, the area of the irradiated object to be irradiated is located at or within the predetermined object position, for example, entirely within the predetermined object position. During the intended operation, the area of the irradiated object to be irradiated is also spaced apart from the lighting device and / or the radiation emitting unit.

[0020] According to at least one embodiment, the predetermined object position is arranged at a certain distance relative to the radiation output area of the radiation emitting unit, through which the radiation generated by at least one electromagnetic radiation source exits the radiation emitting unit during the operation of the lighting device. The distance between two objects is defined herein as the shortest connection between the two objects. For example, during the illumination session, the distance between the predetermined object position and the output area is greater than or equal to one of the following values: 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the distance can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 800 mm, 700 mm, 600 mm, 500 mm, 400 mm, 300 mm, 100 mm, 80 mm. Similarly, during the illumination session, the distance between the irradiation area of the irradiated object and the radiation output area can be these values.

[0021] During a lighting session, when the irradiation object is arranged at the object position, the radiation dose can be greater than or equal to one of the following values: 30 J / cm 2 , 35 J / cm 2 , 37 J / cm 2 . Alternatively or additionally, during a lighting session, when the irradiation object is arranged at the object position, the radiation dose can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 45 J / cm 2 , 40 J / cm 2 , 37 J / cm 2 . During a lighting session, when the irradiation object is arranged at the object position, the average or maximum irradiance can be greater than or equal to one of the following values: 25 mW / cm 2 , 40 mW / cm 2 , 50 mW / cm 2 . Alternatively or additionally, during a lighting session, when the irradiation object is arranged at the object position, the average or maximum irradiance can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 75 mW / cm 2 , 65 mW / cm 2 , 60 mW / cm 2 . For example, during a lighting session, when the irradiation object is arranged at the object position, the average or maximum irradiance is 62 mW / cm 2 + / - 1 mW / cm2. The above values apply in particular at least to red light, for example red light with a peak wavelength of 635 nm at 25 °C.

[0022] A sufficient radiation dose is one of the key requirements for successful PDT. However, when selecting the radiation dose, the maximum tolerable pain level of the patient should also be considered. The radiation dose range of 30 J / cm 2 and 45 J / cm 2 , especially the radiation dose of 37 J / cm 2 , can be considered as the best compromise between suitable treatment efficiency and pain burden, for example when using red light. Additionally or alternatively, the average or maximum irradiance of 25 mW / cm 2 to 75 mW / cm 2 , especially the average or maximum irradiance of 62 mW / cm 2 , can be considered as the best compromise between suitable treatment efficiency and pain burden, for example when using red light.

[0023] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device is configured to irradiate an area of the irradiation object with a predetermined radiation dose during a lighting session. During a lighting session, when the irradiation object is arranged at the object position, the radiation dose can be greater than or equal to one of the following values: 8 J / cm 2 , 9 J / cm 2 , 10 J / cm2 Alternatively or additionally, during a lighting session, when the irradiated object is arranged at the object position, the radiation dose can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 12 J / cm 2 , 11 J / cm 2 , 10 J / cm 2 . The above values are particularly applicable to blue light at least.

[0024] 8 J / cm 2 to 12 J / cm 2 of the radiation dose range, especially 10 J / cm 2 of the radiation dose, can be considered as an optimal compromise between suitable treatment efficiency and pain burden, for example when using blue light.

[0025] As described above, pain relief is crucial for improving the overall acceptance of PDT treatment, thereby increasing the use of this high-quality treatment method. An important step to achieve this goal is to improve the efficacy of PDT, for example by improving the uniformity or homogeneity of skin irradiation respectively to improve the efficacy of PDT. In this way, the possibility that one or only a few sessions are sufficient to treat the affected skin area is increased. In addition, if the uniformity increases, the probability of photo-bleaching in certain areas will also decrease.

[0026] The term "uniformity" must be understood as a specific uniformity, that is, a specific uniform distribution of radiation over the irradiation area, as well as the uniformity of radiation power and / or wavelength, that is, during a lighting session, the radiation power and / or the wavelength of the radiation are uniform over time.

[0027] By using the lighting device disclosed herein, an improvement in the radiation dose received by the target is particularly achieved, especially in terms of irradiation uniformity. Other aspects of the lighting device that improve the irradiation effect and experience of the irradiated object will be explained in more detail below.

[0028] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emission unit includes a plurality of radiation sources arranged on a common radiation source carrier. The radiation source carrier is part of the radiation emission unit. The radiation source carrier is, for example, a continuously formed carrier. The carrier can have a continuous surface on which a plurality of radiation sources are arranged. The radiation source carrier can be self-supporting and conveniently carry the radiation sources arranged thereon. The carrier can be a circuit board.

[0029] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation sources on the radiation source carrier are divided into a plurality of groups, wherein the radiation sources in each group are arranged in a regular group pattern, and at least two of the plurality of groups have different group patterns. In a regular pattern, the original translation vector does not change throughout the group. For example, different group patterns are different from each other in terms of one or two original translation vectors. For example, each radiation source on the radiation source carrier is assigned to a group.

[0030] According to at least one embodiment, at least two groups, in particular all groups, have the same number of radiation sources.

[0031] According to at least one embodiment, each group has a plurality of radiation sources, for example from 4 to 40 (including the endpoints), or from 10 to 25 (including the endpoints).

[0032] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device includes an electronic control unit configured to control the operation of the lighting device, wherein the respective radiation emission units are operatively coupled to the electronic control unit.

[0033] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device is configured to take into account the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source and / or the temperature-dependent change in the light output power (such as the radiation power) to adjust the parameters of the lighting session, so as to irradiate a predetermined radiation dose onto the irradiation area.

[0034] As the temperature of one or more radiation sources and / or the operating environment of the lighting device changes, the radiation emission characteristics (such as wavelength) may shift. For example, the irradiation and peak emission wavelengths can increase or decrease according to the temperature and characteristics (such as type) of one or more radiation sources. The shift in wavelength may cause the emission spectrum to move away from the maximum in the absorption spectrum, which in turn can lead to results similar to insufficient energy delivery. Due to insufficient absorbed energy, the formation of cytotoxic singlet oxygen is also reduced, having the same negative impact on the treatment success.

[0035] Therefore, temperature changes in the environment where the radiation is generated may affect the wavelength of the emitted radiation, thereby affecting the success rate of the treatment. By taking into account the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source, during the operation of the lighting device, for example during a lighting session, the temperature changes in the operating environment are considered, such as those caused by different seasons of the year (such as winter and summer), different times of the day (such as early morning and 3 pm), and / or depending on the geographical location of the lighting device, thus ensuring better treatment.

[0036] In addition, this also ensures more flexible use of the lighting device, especially in terms of location. The lighting device can be moved within a location, such as within a room or within a building complex, without the user having to consider the temperature changes within different locations, and thus provides a uniform and consistent treatment result independent of the environment in which the lighting session takes place.

[0037] Therefore, it is advantageous to take into account the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source.

[0038] Additionally or alternatively, temperature-dependent variations in the optical output power are also considered. The optical output power of a radiation source (such as an LED) is also temperature-dependent and thus prone to temperature-related variations. Adjusting the parameters of the lighting device according to the temperature-dependent variations in the optical output can compensate for these variations, thereby ensuring a more efficient and effective treatment.

[0039] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device includes at least one temperature sensor configured to measure temperature, such as the temperature characteristics of one or more radiation sources. The at least one temperature sensor can be operatively connected to an electronic control unit to provide temperature data to the electronic control unit. The electronic control unit can be configured to adjust the operation of the lighting device based on the temperature data to ensure that a predetermined radiation dose is delivered to the irradiated object.

[0040] The at least one temperature sensor can be located at or near the radiation source. In the case of multiple radiation sources, temperature sensors can be provided at each radiation source, or one or more temperature sensors can be provided at only one or more radiation sources, such as at least one or only one temperature sensor per radiation emitting unit.

[0041] In the case of more temperature sensors, each temperature sensor can be operatively connected to the electronic control unit to provide a temperature value. The electronic control unit can average some or all of the different values to obtain a single temperature data value for some or all of the radiation sources.

[0042] The temperature sensor can be physically connected to the electronic control unit, for example, by a cable connection, or can be operatively connected to the electronic control unit wirelessly, for example, by Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or the like.

[0043] The at least one temperature sensor can continuously provide temperature data during the operation of the lighting device. The temperature sensor can provide regular temperature values during the operation of the lighting device, for example, at a frequency of once per second, once every two seconds, once every three seconds, once every four seconds, once every five seconds, or lower. In other words, the temperature sensor can be polled at an appropriate frequency.

[0044] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device includes a radiation sensor arranged to receive the radiation emitted from the lighting device to generate radiation data that characterizes the wavelength shift of the peak wavelength of the radiation source, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to adjust the operation of the lighting device based on the radiation data to ensure that a predetermined radiation dose is delivered to the irradiated area, such as during a lighting session.

[0045] For example, if the peak wavelength of the radiation source shifts, such that the optimal radiation dose in the irradiated area of the irradiated object cannot be guaranteed, the electronic control unit can adjust the operation, such as extending or shortening the irradiation time of the irradiated object and / or increasing or decreasing the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation emission unit.

[0046] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation received by the radiation sensor is the radiation reflected by the irradiated object. The radiation can be the radiation generated by the radiation source.

[0047] The radiation sensor can be used similar to a temperature sensor to adjust the operation of the lighting device by the electronic control unit. In particular, the lighting device can include one or more radiation sensors.

[0048] In the case of having more radiation sensors, each radiation sensor can be operably connected to the electronic control unit to provide radiation data. The electronic control unit can average different values to obtain a single radiation data value.

[0049] The radiation sensor can be physically connected to the electronic control unit, such as by a cable connection, or operably connected wirelessly, such as by Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or the like.

[0050] The radiation sensor can continuously provide radiation data during the operation of the lighting device. The radiation sensor can provide regular data during the operation of the device, such as every second, every two seconds, every three seconds, every four seconds, every five seconds or at a lower frequency. In other words, the radiation sensor can be polled at an appropriate frequency.

[0051] One or more radiation sensors can be located at or near the radiation source and can be configured to receive the radiation reflected from the irradiated object. The data is then provided to the electronic control unit, which can infer based on the received information how much radiation has been absorbed by the irradiated object and can adjust the radiation dose accordingly.

[0052] According to at least one embodiment, the operation of the lighting device is adjusted by using one of the following measures, any combination or all:

[0053] - Changing (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the distance between the corresponding radiation emission unit and the irradiated object,

[0054] - Adjusting (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the radiation power emitted by the corresponding radiation emission unit, and / or

[0055] - Adjusting (e.g., increasing or decreasing) the duration of the lighting session.

[0056] These adjustments can change the radiation power incident on the irradiated object.

[0057] Thus, the operation of the lighting device and thus the irradiation of the irradiated object (such as a patient) are optimized, for example, to compensate for changes in the peak wavelength or radiation power. Thus, greater controllability of the irradiated object and precise irradiation can be achieved.

[0058] According to at least one embodiment, at least two radiation emitting units are connected to a common support via a mechanical connection system.

[0059] According to at least one embodiment, the common support of the lighting device is part of the lighting device and extends substantially perpendicular to the floor, for example, along a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the floor. The common support may also include a foot element that holds the lighting device on the ground. In addition, the foot element may include wheels so that the entire lighting device is movable.

[0060] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units are movably (e.g., pivotally) connected to each other.

[0061] According to at least one embodiment, the mechanical connection system includes a connecting arm that rigidly and / or axially connects to at least two radiation emitting units that can move relative to each other and are connected to each other. Thus, the connecting arm connects at least two radiation emitting units to the common support. "Axial" connection may mean that the connection prevents axial movement of the radiation units connected to the arm and prevents the positions connected to the arm. Rotational movement can be performed.

[0062] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm is U-shaped, for example, horseshoe-shaped, V-shaped or C-shaped.

[0063] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm is configured to be movable from a first position to a second position, wherein the U-shape (e.g., horseshoe-shaped, V-shaped or C-shaped) of the connecting arm in the first position is narrower than the U-shape (e.g., horseshoe-shaped, V-shaped or C-shaped) of the connecting arm in the second position. The narrower U-shape, V-shape or C-shape in the first position is defined as a U-shape, V-shape or C-shape in which the distance between the two ends of the "U", "V" or "C" in the first position is less than the distance in the second position.

[0064] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm has an adjustable length to adapt to the different positions that the radiation emitting units can present relative to each other when moving relative to each other.

[0065] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm includes two ends. According to at least one embodiment, at least one of the ends is movable relative to the other end, for example, to adapt the length of the connecting arm (e.g., increase or decrease) to the different positions that the radiation emitting units present relative to each other when moving relative to each other.

[0066] According to at least one embodiment, the length of the connecting arm is telescopically adjustable. For example, one or both of the two ends of the connecting arm can telescopically extend from or retract towards the connecting arm. By telescopically extending, the distance between the two ends increases, and the length of the connecting arm also increases.

[0067] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm includes a fully extended position and a fully retracted position. The fully extended position is the position where the ends of the connecting arm are farthest apart from each other, and the fully retracted position is the position where the ends of the connecting arm are closest to each other.

[0068] According to at least one embodiment, at least one (e.g., only one) radiation emitting unit is arranged between at least two radiation emitting units to which the connecting arm is connected.

[0069] According to at least one embodiment, at least one radiation emitting unit is connected to two radiation emitting units, and these two radiation emitting units are connected to the connecting arm. At least three radiation emitting units form a panel or arrangement of radiation emitting units. Thus, the panel or arrangement of radiation emitting units is connected to the connecting arm through two radiation emitting units.

[0070] According to at least one embodiment, the panel or arrangement of radiation emitting units includes five radiation emitting units, and the panel or arrangement is attached to the connecting arm through two radiation emitting units.

[0071] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units in the panel or arrangement of radiation emitting units can move relative to each other. In particular, the radiation emitting units can move relative to each other to adjust the lighting device for irradiating a non-planar surface, where the shapes of different surfaces to be illuminated can vary.

[0072] For example, the lighting device can be adjusted to irradiate a cylindrical surface or a person's head, and a person's head can be idealized or approximated as a cylinder. Then, the radiation emitting units can be arranged such that the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting units are all at the same distance from the lateral surface of the cylinder defining the cylinder.

[0073] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units can be arranged at a first irradiation position, where the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting units are all at the same distance from the lateral surface of the cylinder defining the first cylinder.

[0074] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units can be arranged at a second irradiation position, where the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting units are all at the same distance from the lateral surface of the cylinder defining the second cylinder, and the diameter of the second cylinder is greater than the diameter of the first cylinder.

[0075] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units can be arranged in a C-shaped configuration and / or a semi-circular configuration. In particular, when in the C-shaped or semi-circular configuration, they can all emit radiation towards an irradiated object (such as a person's head). The radiation of the radiation emitting units can overlap at the object position. In the C-shaped configuration or semi-circular configuration, the angle between two adjacent radiation emitting units can be at least 100° or at least 110° and / or at most 150° or at most 130°, for example 120°. Such a configuration can produce more uniform illumination, for example, more uniform illumination of a human face.

[0076] In particular, the angle between two radiation emitting units is defined as the angle between the output regions and / or the radiation source carriers of the two radiation emitting units. This angle can be the smaller angle defined by the (planar) emission surfaces of the two radiation emitting units.

[0077] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units can be arranged such that the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting units are aligned parallel along a plane. This will ensure the possibility of irradiating a planar irradiated object (such as a patient's leg). According to at least one embodiment, the parallel alignment position of the radiation emitting units along the plane corresponds to the fully extended position of the connecting arm.

[0078] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting units can be arranged in a linear arrangement, for example, moved into a linear arrangement. The linear arrangement can be particularly suitable for irradiating the legs or arms.

[0079] According to at least one embodiment, the duration of the entire illumination session can vary depending on whether the radiation emitting units are arranged such that the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting units are aligned parallel along a plane; or whether the radiation emitting units are arranged in a C-shaped configuration and / or a semi-circular configuration.

[0080] According to at least one embodiment, when the radiation emitting units are arranged in a C-shaped configuration and / or a semi-circular configuration, the duration of the illumination session can be less than the duration when the radiation emitting units are arranged such that the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting units are aligned parallel along a plane.

[0081] According to at least one embodiment, in the C-shaped configuration and / or the semi-circular configuration, the duration of the illumination session can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 18 minutes, 17 minutes, 16 minutes, 15 minutes, 14 minutes, 13 minutes. Additionally or alternatively, the duration of the entire illumination session is greater than or equal to one of the following values: 10 minutes, 11 minutes, 12 minutes, 13 minutes. The duration of the illumination session can be, for example, 18 minutes.

[0082] According to at least one embodiment, when the radiation emitting unit is arranged such that the radiation output regions of the radiation emitting unit are aligned parallel to a plane, the duration of the illumination session can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 25 minutes, 24 minutes, 23 minutes, 22 minutes, 21 minutes, 20 minutes, 19 minutes, 18 minutes, 17 minutes, 16 minutes, 15 minutes, 14 minutes, 13 minutes. Users generally accept a session duration of up to 25 minutes, such as 22 minutes. Additionally or alternatively, the duration of the entire illumination session is greater than or equal to one of the following values: 10 minutes, 11 minutes, 12 minutes, 13 minutes. The session duration can be from 10 minutes to 25 minutes, such as 22 minutes.

[0083] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation emitting unit can be tilted relative to the connecting arm. The radiation emitting unit (e.g., the entire arrangement of different radiation emitting units) can be tilted along an inclined axis that is oblique (e.g., perpendicular) to the axis along which the mutually connected radiation emitting units can move relative to each other (e.g., pivot).

[0084] The tiltable radiation emitting unit provides a higher degree of flexibility for the mobility of the lighting device, especially the mobility of the radiation emitting unit, thus ensuring the possibility of irradiating different parts of the irradiation object at different angles and / or with different angles.

[0085] According to at least one embodiment, during the irradiation of the illumination session, the radiation emitting unit can be movable (e.g., tiltable).

[0086] The radiation emitting unit can be connected to the connecting arm by a joint connection, thereby allowing the tilting movement of the radiation emitting unit. The joint connection can be any one of a hinge joint, a saddle joint, a pivot joint, a ball and socket joint, or a combination thereof. Such a joint connection increases the degrees of freedom of movement of the radiation emitting unit, thus ensuring better positioning of the radiation emitting unit relative to the irradiation object.

[0087] The movement of the radiation emitting unit can be controlled by an electronic control unit, for example, depending on data values obtained by different sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, radiation sensors, and / or distance sensors).

[0088] According to at least one embodiment, one or more radiation emitting units can be provided with a handle.

[0089] The handle is particularly useful when manually moving one or more radiation emitting units to their predetermined positions or desired configurations (e.g., C-shaped or linear arrangements) and / or translating the panel or arrangement of the radiation emitting unit to different positions relative to the irradiation object.

[0090] According to at least one embodiment, the respective radiation-emitting unit may have two opposite end surfaces connected by two opposite side surfaces. The respective unit may be elongate. In other words, the side surfaces may be longer than the end surfaces. The side surfaces may be parallel, and / or the end surfaces may be parallel. The side surfaces may be oriented parallel to a pivot axis about which one radiation-emitting unit may pivot relative to an adjacent and connected unit.

[0091] According to at least one embodiment, the handles may be provided at different positions on the two radiation-emitting units, for example at the respective rear sides of the radiation-emitting units. One handle may extend along the side surface of one unit, while the other handle extends along the end surface of the other unit.

[0092] According to at least one embodiment, two parts of the connecting arm that are movable relative to each other are provided with respective handles. These parts may be, for example, two ends.

[0093] By providing the handles at different parts of the connecting arm, in particular at the respective ends, manual adjustment of the length of the connecting arm becomes readily achievable, and the connecting arm may be, for example, in its fully extended or fully retracted position.

[0094] By positioning the handles on two different radiation-emitting units, it is possible to more easily tilt the radiation-emitting unit (e.g., the panel of the radiation-emitting unit) such that the radiation output area coincides with the irradiation object.

[0095] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm is movably connected to the positioning arm of the lighting device. This connection may allow a rotational movement of the connecting arm relative to the positioning arm, for example only a rotational movement.

[0096] According to at least one embodiment, the positioning arm is movably connected to a common support. This connection may allow a rotational and / or pivoting movement of the positioning arm relative to the common support, for example only a rotational and / or pivoting movement.

[0097] For example, the positioning arm may be used to position the connecting arm, in particular the radiation-emitting unit, at a predetermined and / or set distance from the irradiation object.

[0098] According to another embodiment, the positioning arm is connected or connectable at a first end to the connecting arm and at a second end to the common support.

[0099] According to at least one embodiment, the positioning arm extends along a first axis and includes a first end and a second end. The first end is connected or connectable to the connecting arm and thus to the electromagnetic radiation emitting unit. The second end is connected or connectable to a common support, preferably to the top, for example a part of the distal end of the common support relative to the base / one or more foot elements of the common support.

[0100] The positioning arm can extend from the common support at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the common support. This angle can be any angle from 1° to 179°, but can also be in the range of 70° to 110°. For example, the positioning arm can be pivotally connected to the common support so as to be positioned at different angles relative to the longitudinal axis of the common support.

[0101] The positioning arm can extend substantially perpendicular to the connecting arm.

[0102] According to at least one embodiment, the connecting arm is movably connected to the positioning arm by an attachment element extending along the longitudinal axis.

[0103] According to at least one embodiment, the attachment element can include connecting means for connecting to the positioning arm and / or the connecting arm. According to at least one embodiment, the connecting means includes a joint connection, such as a hinge joint, a saddle joint, a pivot joint, a ball-and-socket joint, etc.

[0104] The connecting arm can be connected to the positioning arm via the attachment element, thereby allowing rotation relative to the positioning arm, for example, 180° or even 360° or more than 360°.

[0105] According to at least one embodiment, the positioning arm is a spring arm, such as a gas spring arm.

[0106] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device includes a gas spring that is operatively connected to the positioning arm to support the positioning arm.

[0107] According to at least one embodiment, the tensile force of the gas spring can be less than or equal to 4100N, 4000N, 3900N, 3800N, 3700N. According to at least one embodiment, the tensile force of the gas spring can be greater than or equal to 3400N, 3500N, 3600N, 3700N.

[0108] This tensile force is beneficial for maintaining the total weight of the support member and the radiation emitting unit without losing stability.

[0109] According to at least one embodiment, the weight of the gas spring can be less than or equal to 1.5kg, 1.4kg, 1.3kg, 1.2kg. According to at least one embodiment, the weight of the gas spring can be greater than or equal to 1.1kg, 1.2kg, 1.3kg. The weight of the gas spring can be, for example, 1.305kg.

[0110] According to at least one embodiment, the illumination device includes an irradiated object cooling system, for example, a system that delivers a cooling gas to the irradiated object.

[0111] The irradiated object can be, for example, a mammal suffering from a skin disease, such as a human patient suffering from a skin disease.

[0112] One problem associated with PDT is the degree of pain that the irradiated object (e.g., the patient) experiences and endures during irradiation. The pain experienced by the patient typically ranges from moderate to severe and is generally considered a reason for reluctance to undergo PDT treatment.

[0113] The pain may be caused by the locally applied substance exerting its effect and / or by the increase in skin surface temperature due to radiation. The skin surface temperature of a patient not in contact with any heat source is typically about 32 °C. For more information on the thermal sensitivity of human skin, refer to the work of Jeon & Caterina (2018): Chapter 4 - Molecular basis of peripheral innocuous warmth sensitivity; Handbook of Clinical Neurology, Volume 156, 2018, pp. 69 - 82 (https: / / doi.org / 10.1016 / B978-0-444-63912-7.00004-7).

[0114] During an illumination session, the temperature of the irradiated area of the irradiated object can rise to 40 °C. The elevated temperature (e.g., 42 °C) may cause a burning sensation on the patient's skin, especially since the photodynamic reaction involving reactive oxygen species may enhance or amplify the thermal sensation or make the skin sensitive to such thermal sensation, making the entire treatment process uncomfortable and reducing the likelihood of the patient repeating such treatment, although such treatment is medically recommended.

[0115] The irradiated object cooling system can provide some relief to the irradiated object.

[0116] According to at least one embodiment, the irradiated object cooling system includes at least one cooling gas outlet configured to face the object location, wherein the illumination device is configured such that the cooling gas can leave the illumination device through at least one cooling gas outlet.

[0117] According to at least one embodiment, the illumination device includes a cooling gas driver system that includes at least one cooling gas driver, wherein the cooling gas driver system is configured to drive a cooling air flow through the cooling gas outlet. The cooling gas driver can be included in the radiation emission unit.

[0118] According to at least one embodiment, the cooling gas driver is a fan.

[0119] According to at least one embodiment, each radiation emitting unit includes one or more cooling gas drivers.

[0120] According to at least one embodiment, at least one radiation emitting unit includes at least one cooling gas outlet that faces an object position.

[0121] According to at least one embodiment, at least one radiation emitting unit may include more than one cooling gas outlet. In particular, at least one radiation emitting unit may include one or two cooling gas outlets. For example, each radiation emitting unit may include one or two cooling gas outlets.

[0122] According to at least one embodiment, at least one radiation emitting unit includes at least two cooling gas outlets, preferably disposed in opposite end regions of the radiation emitting unit, e.g., separated along the main longitudinal axis of the radiation emitting unit or an axis perpendicular to the main longitudinal axis of the radiation emitting unit.

[0123] By arranging at least two cooling gas outlets at opposite ends of the radiation emitting unit, the irradiated area of the irradiated object can be cooled from different side surfaces and / or angles and / or positions. If the irradiated object is a patient and the irradiated area is part of the patient's skin, a more uniform cooling distribution can be achieved on the skin part, thus making the patient feel more comfortable or at least reducing the pain burden.

[0124] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation source carrier includes one or more cooling gas channels for flowing cooling gas from one side of the radiation source carrier to the opposite side of the radiation source carrier.

[0125] The radiation source carrier may have a continuous surface on which a plurality of radiation sources are arranged. During operation, the temperature of the radiation sources increases. Therefore, it is advantageous to provide a cooling mechanism for the radiation sources.

[0126] The cooling gas channels have the indirect function of cooling the radiation source carrier and thus also indirectly cooling the radiation sources.

[0127] According to at least one embodiment, each cooling gas channel forms a cooling gas outlet, or each cooling gas channel is fluidly connected to at least one cooling gas outlet.

[0128] According to at least one embodiment, the cooling of the radiation source carrier and the cooling of the irradiation area of the irradiated object can be combined. The cooling air flow provided by the cooling gas driver can pass along and / or through the cooling gas channels through the radiation source. This can direct the lost heat away from the radiation source (in the case of an LED, the lost heat may not be particularly much, but the heat may have an impact on the wavelength / temperature, and this impact should be kept as low as possible). Through the cooling gas outlet, the cooling gas can travel towards the irradiated object to cool the irradiated object.

[0129] According to at least one embodiment, the cooling gas channel can form the cooling gas outlet. For example, the channel can terminate at an open distal end that defines the cooling gas outlet.

[0130] According to at least one embodiment, each cooling gas channel is fluidly connected to at least one cooling gas outlet such that the cooling air flow first flows through the channel and then through the cooling gas outlet.

[0131] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation source carrier forms a cooling gas barrier and / or is enclosed, for example, there are no defined cooling gas channels in the radiation source carrier. In such an embodiment, the cooling gas may not have to pass through the carrier. For example, it can pass through the carrier laterally.

[0132] According to at least one embodiment, one or more cooling gas channels for allowing the cooling gas to flow from one side of the radiation source carrier to the opposite side of the radiation source carrier are arranged adjacent to the edge that laterally defines the radiation source carrier.

[0133] By being arranged on the side edge of the radiation source carrier, the cooling fluid channels are arranged closer to the cooling gas outlet. Therefore, due to the path of the cooling air flow towards the cooling gas outlet, its temperature loss is minimized. Then it is possible to avoid the cooling gas channels passing through the radiation source carrier. At the same time, by passing along the side edge of the radiation source carrier, the cooling gas channels still have a cooling effect on the carrier and thus also on the radiation source on the carrier.

[0134] According to at least one embodiment, the corresponding radiation emitting unit includes at least one cooling gas inlet, for example, at least one inlet for each gas driver. When viewed in a plan view from the cooling gas inlet, the cooling gas inlet can overlap with the radiation source carrier.

[0135] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device is configured such that the cooling gas flows from a side of the radiation source carrier that is away from the cooling gas outlet towards the cooling gas outlet. One or more cooling gas inlets can be provided on a side of the radiation source carrier that faces away from the cooling gas outlet. One or more cooling gas inlets can be provided on a side of the radiation emitting unit that faces away from the radiation emitting surface.

[0136] According to at least one embodiment, the temperature of the cooling gas at the cooling gas outlet is higher than the ambient temperature and less than or equal to the temperature at the radiation source or the radiative cooling body (such as a heat sink or a radiator), which is thermally connected to one or more radiation sources of the radiation emitting unit.

[0137] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device includes an active radiation source cooling system. The active radiation source cooling system actively cools the radiation source, especially during the operation of the irradiation process.

[0138] According to at least one embodiment, the radiation source cooling system includes a gas driver (such as a fan) configured to move the radiation source cooling gas relative to the radiation source. The radiation source cooling system may include more than one gas driver (such as a fan).

[0139] The gas driver of the radiation source cooling system may be the above-mentioned cooling gas driver, but it is not necessary. For example, when one or more separate cooling gas drivers are provided, or when the lighting system does not have an irradiated object cooling system. The gas driver may move the radiation source cooling gas towards, through, or near one or more radiation sources to actively cool the radiation source.

[0140] According to at least one embodiment, the active cooling system includes one or more gas drivers, such as fans. The gas inlet may be positioned as the above-mentioned cooling gas inlet.

[0141] According to at least one embodiment, the lighting device is configured such that the radiation source cooling gas is used as the cooling gas for cooling the irradiated object using the irradiated object cooling system. Therefore, only one cooling system is required to provide the cooling function for both the radiation source and the irradiated object. This makes the lighting device lighter and easier to operate.

[0142] Next, a method for treating skin diseases will be described in detail. The lighting device described herein is applicable to this method. Therefore, all features disclosed in connection with the lighting device are also applicable to this method, and all features disclosed for this method are also applicable to the lighting device.

[0143] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes step a), in which a drug substance is applied to the skin surface of the area to be treated in step a). In step b), the skin area to be treated is arranged at a predetermined object position of the lighting device, such as a device according to any one of the embodiments described herein. In step c), the skin area to be treated is irradiated with the lighting device. In this step, a lighting session is performed.

[0144] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes the step of adjusting the operation of the lighting device based on a temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the emitted radiation and / or based on a temperature-dependent change in the light output power, for example, adjusting the radiation emitted by the radiation source.

[0145] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes the step of using an irradiated object cooling system to cool the skin area to be treated.

[0146] The skin disease or disorder can be or can include a neoplastic skin disease, such as actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma in situ, warts, acne, wound healing disorders / chronic wounds, bacterial and / or fungal infections, or inflammatory skin diseases. For example, the pharmaceutical substance is suitable for topical application to the skin area to be treated. It should be noted that the present disclosure covers both therapeutic and non-therapeutic methods.

[0147] According to at least one embodiment, the pharmaceutical substance is a photosensitizing drug or a precursor of such a drug, which can be excited by light in the radiation spectrum emitted by the lighting device.

[0148] According to at least one embodiment, the pharmaceutical substance includes 5-aminolevulinic acid. 5-aminolevulinic acid has been well studied and is considered a reliable prodrug for generating photosensitizers.

[0149] According to at least one embodiment, the skin disease is or includes a neoplastic skin disease, such as actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma in situ, or warts, acne, wound healing disorders / chronic wounds, bacterial and / or fungal infections, inflammatory skin diseases.

[0150] Next, a method for operating a lighting device will be described in detail. In particular, the lighting device described herein can be operated with this method. Therefore, all features disclosed in connection with the lighting device also apply to the method, and all features disclosed for the method also apply to the lighting device.

[0151] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing a measurement signal that indicates the distance between the radiation emitting unit and the irradiated object. In another step, an operation signal is generated according to (i.e., depending on) the measurement signal, and the operation signal is configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the operation of the lighting device or to invoke an adjustment of the operation of the lighting device.

[0152] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing a measurement signal that indicates a temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the emitted radiation and / or a temperature-dependent change in the light output power.

[0153] In another step, an operation signal is generated based on (i.e., depending on) the measurement signal, the operation signal being configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source of the lighting device, or to invoke an adjustment of the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source of the lighting device, for example, by a user (e.g., a doctor).

[0154] Additionally or alternatively, in another step, an operation signal is generated based on (i.e., depending on) the measurement signal, the operation signal being configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the light output power of the lighting device, or to invoke an adjustment of the light output power of the lighting device, for example, by a user (e.g., a doctor).

[0155] According to at least one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing a measurement signal indicating the temperature at the irradiated area of the irradiated object. In another step, an operation signal is generated based on (i.e., depending on) the measurement signal, the operation signal being configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the operation of the cooling system of the irradiated object of the lighting device, or to invoke an adjustment of the operation of the cooling system of the irradiated object of the lighting device.

[0156] Furthermore, a computer program product is described. The computer program product includes machine-readable instructions that, when loaded and executed on a processor, cause the lighting device to perform one of the embodiments of the method for operating the lighting device. The processor may be part of the lighting device.

[0157] Furthermore, a computer-readable medium is described on which the computer program product is stored. The medium may be a non-transitory storage medium. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0158] However, the present disclosure is further illustrated by the following drawings and examples, but is not limited thereto.

[0159] Figure 1 and Figure 2 show a side view and a detailed view of an exemplary embodiment of a lighting device, respectively.

[0160] Figure 3 and Figure 4 show a simplified schematic diagram of an exemplary arrangement of a radiation emitting unit.

[0161] Figure 5 show an exemplary embodiment of a radiation emitting unit.

[0162] Figure 6 show an exemplary embodiment of a mechanical connection system.

[0163] Figure 7 show another exemplary mechanical connection system to which a radiation emitting unit is connected.

[0164] Figure 8 Shows a further configuration of an exemplary mechanical connection system.

[0165] Figure 9 Shows a further configuration of an exemplary mechanical connection system.

[0166] Figure 10 Shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a positioning arm.

[0167] Figure 11a , 11b Shows a single exemplary radiation emission unit including an active radiation source cooling system.

[0168] Figure 12 Shows an exemplary embodiment of a method for treating skin diseases based on a flowchart. Detailed Description

[0169] Figure 1 Shows a side view of an exemplary lighting device 100.

[0170] The lighting device 100 includes a common support 110. The common support extends longitudinally along an axis A1 and includes a foot element 112 which includes wheels 114 for mobility.

[0171] A positioning arm 30 is connected to the top end portion 110a of the common support 110 and extends angularly with respect to the axis A1.

[0172] The positioning arm 30 is capable of pivoting (i.e., swinging) vertically with respect to the common support 110 element in the direction of arrow a3. A connecting arm 1 is connected to the first end 32a of the positioning arm 30 via an attachment element 35.

[0173] The connecting arm 1 further includes a radiation emission unit panel 20 connected thereto, the radiation emission unit panel 20 including five radiation emission units 20, wherein one radiation emission unit 20e is shown tilted with respect to the panel 20.

[0174] The connecting arm 1 further includes two handles 28a and 28b at its two ends. The radiation emission unit 20 further includes four handles, one of which (e.g., handle 29b) is attached to the radiation emission unit 20e as shown.

[0175] The lighting device 100 can be configured to adjust the parameters of an illumination session in consideration of the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the radiation emitted by a radiation source (not shown) and / or the temperature-dependent change in the light output power (e.g., radiation power) so as to irradiate a predetermined radiation dose onto an irradiation area.

[0176] The operation of the lighting device 100 can be adjusted by using one, any combination, or all of the following measures:

[0177] - Changing the distance between the respective radiation-emitting unit 20 and the irradiated object (see, for example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 ),

[0178] - Adjusting the radiation power emitted by the respective radiation-emitting unit 20, and / or

[0179] - Adjusting the duration of the lighting session.

[0180] Figure 2 Shows a detailed view of the connection mechanism and the movement possibilities of the various elements of the lighting device based on an Figure 1 exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 Parts not described in this figure are explained in

[0181] As will be explained in more detail in Figure 6 , the connecting arm 1 can adjust its length. Specifically, one end 12a can extend as shown by the arrow a, thereby increasing or decreasing the distance between the two ends 12a, 12b. The two ends 12a, 12b can also be movable.

[0182] The connecting arm 1 is connected to the positioning arm 30 via an attachment element 35. The attachment element 35 can rotate as shown by the arrow a1, thereby rotating the connecting arm 1 in the direction of the arrow a1.

[0183] Additionally or alternatively, the connecting arm 1 can rotate relative to the attachment element 35 and in the direction of the arrow a1.

[0184] The attachment element 35 is also configured to be able to swing relative to the positioning element 30 and in the direction of the arrow a2. The positioning element 30 can swing relative to the Figure 1 shown common support 110 in the direction of the arrow a3.

[0185] The attachment element 35 can include connection means (not shown) for connecting to the positioning arm 30 and / or the connecting arm 1. The connection means can include joint connections, such as hinge joints, saddle joints, pivot joints, ball-and-socket joints, etc.

[0186] The connecting arm 1 can be connected to the positioning arm 30 via the attachment element 35 to allow rotation relative to the positioning arm 35, for example, by 180° or even 360° or more than 360°, as shown by the arrow a1.

[0187] As shown in the following figure, the radiation-emitting unit panel 20 is adapted to tilt in the direction of the arrow a4. Each radiation-emitting unit 20a to 20e can move relative to another radiation-emitting unit, for example, swing, as shown by the arrow a5.

[0188] The radiation emitting units of the radiation emitting unit panel 20 further include four handles 29a, 29b, 29c, and 29d. The handles 29a and 29b are respectively arranged on the outermost radiation emitting units 20a and 20e of the panel 20, and the two handles 29c and 29d are respectively arranged on the radiation emitting units 20b and 20d, which are directly connected to the connecting arm 1.

[0189] The handles 29a and 29b are arranged on the outermost sides of the corresponding radiation emitting units relative to the panel 20. The handles 29a and 29b are used, for example, to swing the corresponding radiation emitting unit, such as the radiation emitting unit 20e, relative to the other radiation emitting units 20b to 20e.

[0190] The handles 29c and 29d are arranged on the top or bottom of the radiation emitting units 20b and 20d. These handles 29c, 29d are used to move the entire connecting arm 1 and / or the panel 20.

[0191] Figure 3 An exemplary schematic embodiment of a part of an illumination device 100 for photodynamic therapy is shown. This part of the illumination device 100 includes a plurality of radiation emitting units 20 linearly connected to each other. The radiation emitting units 20 are movably, in particular pivotally, connected to each other. For this purpose, hinges 15 are used between the radiation emitting units 20. Each radiation emitting unit 20 includes a radiation output area 21, and the radiation generated by the corresponding radiation emitting unit 20 is coupled out of the illumination device 100 through this radiation output area. For example, in each case, the output area 21 is formed by a cover plate (plexiglass or glass) of the corresponding radiation emitting unit 20.

[0192] In Figure 3 the illumination device 100 is configured to irradiate a plane. The radiation emitting units 20 are arranged such that the radiation output areas 21 are substantially in a common plane. The main radiation directions of the radiation emitting units 20 are substantially parallel to each other.

[0193] The illumination device 100 includes an electronic control unit 4, which is configured to control the operation of the illumination device 100, wherein the corresponding radiation emitting units 20 are operatively coupled to the electronic control unit 4.

[0194] The illumination device 100 may further include at least one temperature sensor (not shown), which may be operatively connected to the electronic control unit 4 to provide temperature data to the electronic control unit 4. The electronic control unit 4 may be configured to adjust the operation of the illumination device 100 based on the temperature data to ensure that a predetermined radiation dose is delivered to the irradiated object.

[0195] At least one temperature sensor may be located at or near the radiation source. In the case of multiple radiation sources, temperature sensors may be provided at each radiation source, or one or more temperature sensors may be provided at only one or more of the radiation sources, for example, one temperature sensor for each radiation emission unit 20.

[0196] In the case of more temperature sensors, each temperature sensor may be operably connected to the electronic control unit 4 to provide temperature values. The electronic control unit 4 may average some or all of the different values to obtain a single temperature data value for some or all of the radiation sources.

[0197] At least one temperature sensor may continuously provide temperature data during the operation of the lighting device. The temperature sensor may be polled at an appropriate frequency.

[0198] The lighting device 100 may also include a radiation sensor (not shown) which is arranged to receive the radiation emitted from the lighting device 100 to generate radiation data that characterizes the wavelength shift of the peak wavelength of the radiation source, wherein the electronic control unit 4 is configured to adjust the operation of the lighting device 100 based on the radiation data to ensure that a predetermined radiation dose is delivered to the irradiation area.

[0199] The radiation sensor and / or the temperature sensor may be physically connected to the electronic control unit 4, for example, by a cable connection, or may be operably connected wirelessly, for example, by Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or the like.

[0200] The radiation sensor may continuously provide radiation data during the operation of the lighting device 100. The radiation sensor may be polled at an appropriate frequency.

[0201] One or more radiation sensors may be located at or near the radiation source and may be configured to receive the radiation reflected from the irradiated object. The data is then provided to the electronic control unit 4 which may infer, based on the received information, how much radiation has been absorbed by the irradiated object and may adjust the radiation dose accordingly.

[0202] A radiation sensor may be provided for each radiation emission unit 20. Each radiation sensor may then be configured to receive the radiation reflected from the irradiated object to its corresponding radiation emission unit.

[0203] Figure 4 is shown Figure 3Another schematic view of the lighting device 100 in different configurations, wherein the lighting device 100 is configured to irradiate a non-planar surface, namely a cylindrical surface, in particular a human face. The radiation emitting units 20 are arranged in a C-shaped configuration. For this purpose, the radiation emitting units 20 pivot relative to each other such that the distance from the radiation output areas 21 of the radiation emitting units to the cylindrical surface is substantially the same. The rearrangement or movement of the radiation emitting units 20 can be done manually. In the present case, each radiation emitting unit 20 is assigned a motor 42 which is configured to move / pivot the respective radiation emitting unit 20 relative to the other radiation emitting units 20.

[0204] However, the radiation emitting units can also be moved manually, for example by means of Figure 1 and Figure 2 the handle described in

[0205] The cylinder around which the radiation emitting units 20 are arranged defines a predetermined object position 300. The object position 300 is arranged at a certain distance from the radiation output area 21 of the radiation emitting unit 10. An irradiated object 200 is arranged within the object position 300. For example, the irradiated object 200 is a human head. The head 200 is treated by irradiating the head 200 with the lighting device 100.

[0206] The duration of the entire lighting session can vary depending on: whether the radiation emitting units 20 are arranged such that the radiation output areas of the radiation emitting units 20 are aligned parallel to a plane; or whether the radiation emitting units are arranged in a C-shaped configuration and / or a semi-circular configuration. In the C-shaped configuration, its duration may be shorter than when the radiation emitting units 20 are arranged such that the radiation output areas of the radiation emitting units are aligned parallel to a plane, for example 18 minutes compared to 22 minutes.

[0207] Figure 5 An exemplary embodiment of the radiation emitting unit 20 is shown in a plan view of the radiation emitting unit 20 (for example in a plan view of the cover plate). For example, Figure 5 the radiation emitting unit 20 for Figures 1 to 4 all the radiation emitting units 20 in the lighting device 100 of

[0208] The radiation emitting unit 20 includes a unit housing 3 and a radiation source carrier 40. The unit housing 3 includes, for example, metal and / or plastic. In the shown plan view, the radiation source carrier 40 is laterally surrounded by the unit housing 3. The unit housing 3 defines a lateral edge 44 of the radiation emitting unit 20, and the lateral edge 44 bounds the radiation emitting unit 20 in the transverse direction T.

[0209] The radiation source carrier 40 is, for example, a printed circuit board, abbreviated as PCB. The radiation source carrier 40 is an elongated rectangular carrier. The main extension direction of the radiation source carrier 40 defines a longitudinal direction L. A direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and extending parallel to the main extension plane of the radiation source carrier 4 defines a transverse direction T. The radiation source carrier 40 is bounded by carrier edges 42 along the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T.

[0210] A plurality of radiation sources 25 are arranged on the radiation source carrier 40. The exact positions of the radiation sources 25 on the radiation source carrier 40 are indicated by the intersections of the square brackets. For example, the center of the chip surface of the semiconductor chip assigned to the radiation source overlaps with the corresponding intersection.

[0211] In an exemplary embodiment, all the radiation sources 25 of the radiation emission unit 20 are arranged on a common radiation source carrier 40. During the intended operation, all the radiation sources 25 preferably emit radiation in the visible spectrum and have substantially the same color and / or substantially the same peak wavelength.

[0212] The peak wavelength of the emission spectrum of the radiation source 25 can be in one of the following ranges: 634 nm ± 5 nm, 635 nm ± 5 nm, 542 nm ± 5 nm, 506 nm ± 5 nm, 417 nm ± 5 nm, and 420 nm ± 5 nm. In particular, this peak wavelength can be obtained when the operating temperature of the optoelectronic component is below 50 °C (e.g., at 25 °C) and at an operating current of 100 mA to 1000 mA. The half-bandwidth of the spectrum can be, for example, at least 10 nm and / or at most 20 nm, e.g., 16 nm.

[0213] The radiation source 25 can also emit radiation of the same or similar peak wavelength, for example, radiation of the same color, such as red light (635 nm ± 4 nm), blue light (420 nm ± 4 nm), yellow light (542 nm ± 4 nm), or green light (506 nm ± 4 nm).

[0214] The duration of the entire lighting session can be less than or equal to one of the following values: 20 minutes, 19 minutes, 18 minutes, 17 minutes, 16 minutes, 15 minutes, 14 minutes, 13 minutes. Users generally accept a session duration of up to 20 minutes. The duration of the entire lighting session can be greater than or equal to one of the following values: 10 minutes, 11 minutes, 12 minutes, 13 minutes. The session duration can be between 10 minutes and 20 minutes, e.g., 18 minutes.

[0215] As Figure 5As can be seen, the radiation sources 25 are arranged on the carrier 40 in three different groups G1, G2, and G3, where each radiation source 25 is uniquely assigned to one of the groups G1, G1, G3. The groups G1, G2, and G3 are represented by dashed rectangles. The first group G1 with 15 radiation sources 25 is located in the central region of the radiation source carrier 40. The second group G2 and the third group G3, each having 15 radiation sources 25, are located in the peripheral regions of the radiation source carrier 40. When viewed along the longitudinal direction L, the second group G2 and the third group G3 are located in front of and behind the first group G1. Within each of the groups G1, G2, and G3, the radiation sources 25 are arranged in a two-dimensional regular group pattern. The group patterns of the second group G2 and the third group G3 are the same, while the group pattern of the first group G1 is different.

[0216] In the second group G2 and the third group G3, the radiation sources 25 are arranged on the radiation source carrier 40 more densely than in the first group G1. Therefore, the occupancy density of the radiation sources 25 in the second group G2 and the third group G3 on the radiation source carrier 40 is greater than that of the radiation sources 25 in the first group G1 on the radiation source carrier 40. This arrangement is particularly advantageous for the uniform irradiation of the irradiated object along the longitudinal direction L.

[0217] It can also be seen from Figure 5 that the distance between two adjacent groups G1, G2, and G3 is greater than the distance between the radiation sources 25 within the groups G1, G2, and G3 (the distance between two adjacent groups is the shortest distance between two radiation sources 25 in these two groups). In addition, it can be seen from Figure 5 that the two-dimensional pattern in which the radiation sources 25 are arranged on the radiation source carrier 40 is symmetric with respect to an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction L and also symmetric with respect to an axis extending parallel to the transverse direction T.

[0218] In Figure 5 the exemplary embodiment, the radiation sources 25 are arranged at the geometric center of the radiation source carrier 40. The distance sensor 46 is arranged on the radiation source carrier 2 in a manner slightly deviating from this geometric center. The distance sensor 46 is, for example, a time-of-flight sensor including a laser diode. The distance from the geometric center to an adjacent radiation source 25 is, for example, 10 mm.

[0219] Additionally or alternatively, the distance sensor 46 can be slightly deviated from the center of the radiation field generated by the radiation sources of the radiation emission unit, for example, deviated by at least 5 mm and at most 40 mm. When integrating all the radiation sources of the radiation emission unit, the center of the radiation field can be the position of the centroid.

[0220] Figure 6 The exemplary rear view of the mechanical connection mechanism including the connecting arm 1 is shown, and the connecting arm 1 does not have at least two radiation emission units. The connecting arm 1 is U-shaped. However, the connecting arm 1 can also be V-shaped or C-shaped.

[0221] The connecting arm 1 includes a main body portion 10 and two end portions 12a, 12b. As can be seen from the double-headed arrow a, the end portion 12a can move along the longitudinal axis defined by the main body portion 10 to increase the distance d between the two end portions 12a, 12b. Therefore, the length of the connecting arm 1 can be adjusted.

[0222] The main body portion 10 of the connecting arm 12 includes an attachment element 35 for attaching the connecting arm to a positioning arm (see, for example, Figure 1 ). The main body portion 10 and the connecting arm 1 can rotate relative to the attachment element 35 as indicated by the arrow a1.

[0223] The end portions 12a, 12b also include connecting means 22 (only the end portion 12b is shown) for connecting the respective radiation emitting units, as shown in the figure below.

[0224] The connecting arm 1 also includes two handles 28a, 28b, which in this example are attached to the end portions 12a, 12b of the connecting arm 1.

[0225] However, the two end portions 12a, 12b of the connecting arm can also extend or retract independently.

[0226] Figure 7 An exemplary mechanical connection system is shown, which includes, for example, Figure 6 a connecting arm 1 and a panel 20 of five radiation emitting units 20a to 20e. The panel 20 is rigidly axially connected to the connecting arm 1, for example, to the end portions 12a, 12b of the connecting arm 1. The radiation emitting units 20a to 20b can be detachably connected to each other and / or to the connecting arm. The radiation emitting units 20b and 20d are respectively connected to the end portions 12a and 12b of the connecting arm 1. One radiation emitting unit 20c is arranged between the two radiation emitting units 20b and 20c. The radiation emitting units 20a and 20e are respectively arranged on one side of the radiation emitting units 20b and 20d to form a panel or arrangement 20.

[0227] The radiation emitting units 20a to 20e of the panel 20 can move relative to each other and be connected to each other. The radiation emitting units 20a to 20e are connected to each other by hinges at the rear of the radiation emitting units (see, for example, Figure 3 ).

[0228] Each of the radiation emitting units 20a to 20e can include its own unit housing 3 (as Figure 5 shown), and can be its own housing module.

[0229] The connecting arm 1 can adjust its length as indicated by arrow a so as to adapt to the different positions presented by the radiation emitting units 20a to 20e relative to each other when they move relative to each other (e.g., pivot). By extending the end portion 12a, the width of the U-shaped panel 20 can be changed.

[0230] Figure 8 The configuration of a mechanical connection system is shown, such as Figure 7 the mechanical connection system, in which the tiltability of the radiation emitting unit 20 is shown.

[0231] The panel 20 of the radiation emitting unit 20 is tiltable, for example rotatable relative to the axis A1, which connects the two distal ends of the connecting arm and extends parallel to the longitudinal main axis of the main body portion 10 of the connecting arm. In other words, the radiation emitting unit 20 can be tilted relative to the connecting arm 1 along an axis that is oblique (e.g., perpendicular) to the axis along which the interconnected radiation emitting units 20 can move relative to each other (e.g., pivot).

[0232] In some embodiments, the radiation emitting unit 20 can rotate up to 360° relative to the axis A2 as indicated by arrow a6.

[0233] Figure 9 The configuration of a mechanical connection system (such as Figure 7 the mechanical connection system) is shown, in which the length adjustment of the connecting arm 10 is shown.

[0234] As shown, the connecting arm can adjust its length by the mobility of the end portions 12a, 12b. However, in this example, only the mobility of the end portion 12b is movable. By extending one or both of the distal ends 12a, 12b, the width of the U-shaped panel 20 can be changed.

[0235] Specifically, by extending one or both of the end portions 12a, 12b along the longitudinal axis of the main body portion 10 of the connecting arm 1, the width of the radiation emitting unit panel 20 changes (as indicated by the arrow), thereby allowing irradiation of larger or smaller irradiation objects and / or thus changing the distance between the radiation emitting unit and the irradiation object. The radiation emitting units 20 can also be arranged parallel along a plane. For example, this situation helps in treating parts such as the legs.

[0236] The more the distal ends extend, the wider the U-shape of the panel. In the retracted position of the end portions 12a, 12b (right figure), the U-shape is the narrowest.

[0237] The radiation emitting units 20a and 20e can also be moved independently of the other radiation emitting units via the handles 29a and 29b.

[0238] Figure 10A perspective view of an exemplary positioning arm 30 (e.g., a spring arm 30) is shown.

[0239] The positioning arm 30 includes a first end 32a and a second end 32b. The first end 32a includes a first connecting device 36 which, in this example, is formed as a hinge joint. A connecting tube 37a extending from the connecting device 36 is connected to a connecting element of the connecting arm, e.g., connected to an attachment element (not shown).

[0240] The second end 32b includes a second connecting device 38 which, in this example, is formed as a hinge joint. A connecting tube 37b extending from the connecting device 38 is connected to a common support of the lighting device (not shown).

[0241] The positioning arm 30 includes a gas spring 34 which connects the second end 32b of the positioning arm 30 to the central portion of the positioning arm 30. The tensile force of the gas spring 34 can be 3900 N and the weight is 1305 kg. The gas spring 34 supports the positioning arm 30 to hold the connecting arm and the radiation emitting unit, as shown below.

[0242] Figure 11a and 11b Exploded views of the radiation emitting unit 20 as viewed from the front and back respectively are shown, and the radiation emitting unit includes a radiation source cooling system.

[0243] As shown, the radiation emitting unit 20 includes two cooling gas drivers 62a, 62b to cool the radiation source carrier 40, particularly the radiation source 25 (only visible in Figure 11b ); and a plurality of heat sinks 63 positioned towards the rear surface of the radiation source carrier 40.

[0244] In this case, the gas drivers 62a and 62b are fans configured to cool the radiation source carrier 40 and thus cool the radiation source 25. The rear surface of the radiation emitting unit includes an air grille 66 aligned with the gas driver (e.g., a fan). Warm air exits the radiation emitting unit 20 from the cooling gas outlet 64 (e.g., a ventilation slot 64), and the cooling gas outlet 64 is arranged, for example, at the top front side of the radiation emitting unit 20.

[0245] The radiation emitting unit may further include an irradiated object cooling system which includes two cooling gas outlets 70a and 70b located, in this embodiment, at the top side and the bottom side of the front surface of the radiation emitting unit 20.

[0246] Cooling of the radiation source carrier 40 and the irradiated area of the irradiated object (such as a patient) can be combined. The cooling airflows provided by the cooling gas drivers 62a and 62b can be along the radiation source 25 and / or through cooling gas channels (not shown). This can direct the lost heat away from the radiation source 25. Through the cooling gas outlets 70a and 70b, the cooling gas can travel towards the irradiated object to cool the irradiated object.

[0247] The temperature of the cooling gas at the cooling gas outlet can be higher than the ambient temperature and less than or equal to the temperature at the radiation source cooling body, which is thermally connected to one or more radiation sources of the radiation emitting unit.

[0248] The radiation source carrier 40 can include one or more cooling gas channels (not shown) for flowing the cooling gas from one side of the radiation source carrier 40 to the opposite side of the radiation source carrier, such as adjacent to the edges bounding the radiation source carrier 40. The cooling gas channels can form cooling gas outlets, such as ventilation slots 64 or cooling gas outlets 70a and 70b. For example, the channels can terminate at the open distal ends defining the cooling gas outlets 70a and 70b. Each cooling gas channel can be fluidly connected to at least one of the cooling gas outlets 70a and 70b such that the cooling airflow can first flow through the channel and then through the cooling gas outlets 70a and 70b.

[0249] The radiation source carrier 40 can form a cooling gas barrier and / or can be enclosed, for example, without defining cooling gas channels in the radiation source carrier 40. Thus, the cooling gas may not have to pass through the carrier. For example, it can pass through the carrier laterally.

[0250] The corresponding radiation emitting unit 20 can include at least one cooling gas inlet (not shown), such as at least one inlet for each of the gas drivers 62a and 62b. The cooling gas inlet can overlap with the radiation source carrier 40. One or more cooling gas inlets can be provided on the side of the radiation source carrier 40 facing away from the cooling gas outlet. One or more cooling gas inlets can be provided on the side of the radiation emitting unit 20 facing away from the radiation emitting surface.

[0251] Figure 12 An exemplary embodiment of a method for treating skin diseases is shown based on the flowchart. In step S1, a drug substance is applied to the skin surface of the area of a person to be treated. For example, such an area may be a facial part of a human (such as a patient). It may be the facial area. The drug substance is, for example, a photosensitive drug or a precursor of such a drug, which can be excited by light in the radiation spectrum emitted by the illumination device 100. The drug substance can include 5-aminolevulinic acid.

[0252] In step S2, the skin area to be treated is arranged in the predetermined object position 300 of the illumination device 100 (see, for example, Figure 3 ).

[0253] In step S3, the skin area to be treated is irradiated with the illumination device for, for example, at least 10 minutes and at most 20 minutes. During the illumination session, the skin area is irradiated with a predetermined radiation dose, for example, at least 30 J / cm 2 and at most 45 J / cm 2 , for example, 37 J / cm 2 . If an object is irradiated with red light having a wavelength of about 635 nm, a radiation dose of 37 J / cm 2 is particularly suitable. In the case of using green or blue light, for example, for irradiating a skin surface to which ALA has been topically applied before irradiation, due to different absorption characteristics of these wavelengths, the total radiation dose applied to the irradiated object during the irradiation session may have different values. The general teachings in the present disclosure apply not only to light sources emitting red light but also to light sources emitting different colored lights, such as blue or green light, especially in the case of performing ALA-based PDT.

[0254] In step S4, the radiation emitted by the radiation source is adjusted based on the temperature-dependent change of the radiation wavelength, and / or the light output power is adjusted based on the temperature-dependent change of the light output power.

[0255] Step S4 may further include using an irradiated object cooling system to cool the skin area to be treated.

[0256] The skin disease or disorder may be or may include a neoplastic skin disease, such as actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma in situ, warts, acne, wound healing disorders / chronic wounds, bacterial and / or fungal infections, or inflammatory skin diseases.

[0257] The pharmaceutical substance may be a photosensitive drug or a precursor of such a drug, which can be excited by light in the radiation spectrum emitted by the illumination device.

[0258] The pharmaceutical substance may include 5-aminolevulinic acid. 5-aminolevulinic acid has been well studied and is considered a reliable prodrug for generating photosensitizers.

[0259] The skin disease may be a neoplastic skin disease, such as actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma in situ, or warts, acne, wound healing disorders / chronic wounds, bacterial and / or fungal infections, inflammatory skin diseases.

[0260] The invention described herein is not limited to the description in connection with exemplary embodiments. On the contrary, the invention includes any new feature and any combination of features, in particular any combination of features in the patent claims, even if such features or combinations themselves are not explicitly stated in the patent claims or in the exemplary embodiments.

[0261] Reference numeral

[0262] 1 Connecting arm

[0263] 3 Unit housing

[0264] 4 Electronic control unit

[0265] 10 Main body part of the connecting arm

[0266] 12a End of the connecting arm

[0267] 12b End of the connecting arm

[0268] 15 Hinge

[0269] 20 One or more radiation emitting units / panels

[0270] 20a…20e Radiation emitting units

[0271] 21 Radiation output area

[0272] 22 Connecting device

[0273] 24 Hinge

[0274] 25 One or more radiation sources

[0275] 26 Ventilation slot

[0276] 28a Handle

[0277] 28b Handle

[0278] 29a…29d Handles

[0279] 30 Positioning arm

[0280] 32a First end

[0281] 32b Second end

[0282] 34 Gas spring

[0283] 35 Attachment element

[0284] 36 First connecting device

[0285] 37a, 37b Connecting pipes

[0286] 38 Second connecting device

[0287] 40 Radiation source carrier

[0288] 42 Motor

[0289] 44 Carrier edge

[0290] 46 Distance sensor

[0291] 50 Irradiated object cooling system

[0292] 52 Cooling gas driver / fan

[0293] 54 Joint connection

[0294] 62a Gas driver

[0295] 62b Gas driver

[0296] 63 Heat sink

[0297] 64 Ventilation slot

[0298] 66 Air grille

[0299] 70a Cooling gas outlet

[0300] 70b Cooling gas outlet

[0301] 100 Lighting device

[0302] 110 Common support

[0303] 110a Top part

[0304] 112 Foot element

[0305] 114 Wheel

[0306] 200 Irradiated object

[0307] 300 Object position

[0308] a1…a6 Direction arrows

[0309] A1, A2 axes

[0310] G1…G3 Radiation source groups

[0311] S1…S4 Method steps

Claims

1. An illumination device for photodynamic therapy, the illumination device comprising at least two electromagnetic radiation emitting units, wherein the at least two electromagnetic radiation emitting units comprise at least one electromagnetic radiation source, the electromagnetic radiation source being configured to generate radiation for irradiating an area of an irradiation object during an illumination session, wherein, the irradiation object is to be arranged at an object position, wherein the object position is arranged at a certain distance relative to the radiation output area of the radiation emitting unit, and during operation of the illumination device, the radiation generated by the at least one electromagnetic radiation source leaves the radiation emitting unit through the radiation output area.

2. The illumination device according to claim 1, wherein, the illumination device comprises an electronic control unit configured to control the operation of the illumination device, wherein the respective radiation emitting unit is operatively coupled to the electronic control unit.

3. The illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the illumination device is configured to irradiate the irradiated area of the irradiation object with a predetermined radiation dose of radiation, in particular radiation having an irradiation wavelength, during one illumination session.

4. The illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the illumination device is configured to adjust the parameters of the illumination session taking into account the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source and / or the temperature-dependent change in the optical output power, so as to irradiate a predetermined radiation dose onto the irradiated area.

5. The illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the illumination device comprises at least one temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature characteristics of the temperature of one or more radiation sources, wherein the at least one temperature sensor is operatively connected to the electronic control unit to provide temperature data to the electronic control unit, and wherein the electronic control unit is configured to adjust the operation of the illumination device based on the temperature data to ensure that a predetermined radiation dose is delivered to the irradiated area.

6. The illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the illumination device comprises a radiation sensor arranged to receive the radiation emitted from the illumination device to generate radiation data characterizing the wavelength shift of the peak wavelength of the radiation source, and wherein the electronic control unit is configured to adjust the operation of the illumination device based on the radiation data to ensure that a predetermined radiation dose is delivered to the irradiated area.

7. The illumination device according to claim 6, wherein, the radiation received by the radiation sensor is the radiation reflected by the irradiation object.

8. The illumination device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the operation of the illumination device is adjusted by using one of the following measures, any combination or all: - changing the distance between the respective radiation emitting unit and the irradiation object, - adjusting the radiation power emitted by the respective radiation emitting unit, and / or - adjusting the duration of the illumination session.

9. The lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the radiation-emitting unit is connected to a common support via a mechanical connection system.

10. The lighting device according to claim 9, wherein, the mechanical connection system includes a connecting arm that is rigidly and / or axially connected to two different radiation-emitting units, and the two different radiation-emitting units are capable of moving relative to each other and are connected to each other.

11. The lighting device according to claim 10, wherein, the connecting arm has a U-shape, V-shape or C-shape.

12. The lighting device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, the connecting arm has an adjustable length to adapt to the different positions presented by the radiation-emitting units relative to each other when moving relative to each other, for example pivoting.

13. The lighting device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, at least one radiation-emitting unit is arranged between the two radiation-emitting units to which the connecting arm is connected.

14. The lighting device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein, the radiation-emitting unit is capable of tilting relative to the connecting arm along an axis that is oblique, for example perpendicular, to the axis along which the mutually connected radiation-emitting units are movable relative to each other, for example pivotable.

15. The lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, one or more radiation-emitting units are provided with handles.

16. The lighting device according to claim 15, wherein, the handles are provided at different positions on two radiation-emitting units.

17. The lighting device according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein, two parts of the connecting arm that are movable relative to each other are provided with corresponding handles.

18. The lighting device according to any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein, the connecting arm is movable manually and / or by a motor of the lighting device.

19. The lighting device according to any one of claims 10 to 18, wherein, the connecting arm is movably connected to a positioning arm of the lighting device, and the positioning arm is movably connected to a common support.

20. The lighting device according to claim 19, wherein, the positioning arm is adapted to be connected or connectable to the connecting arm at a first end and to be connected or connectable to the common support of the lighting device at a second end.

21. The lighting device according to claim 19 or 20, wherein, the positioning arm is capable of pivoting relative to the longitudinal axis of the common support of the lighting device.

22. The lighting device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein, the first end of the positioning arm includes first connecting means for connecting and holding the common support.

23. The lighting device according to claim 22, wherein, the first connecting means includes a joint connection to allow the common support to move relative to the positioning arm, for example independently.

24. The lighting device according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein, The second end portion of the positioning arm includes a second connecting device for connecting the positioning arm to a common support of the lighting device.

25. The lighting device according to claim 24, wherein, the second connecting device includes a joint to allow the positioning arm to move independently relative to the common support of the lighting device.

26. The lighting device according to any one of claims 19 to 25, wherein, the positioning arm is a spring arm.

27. The lighting device according to any one of claims 19 to 26, further comprising a gas spring operatively connected to the positioning arm to support the positioning arm.

28. The lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the lighting device includes an irradiated object cooling system.

29. The lighting device according to claim 28, wherein, the irradiated object cooling system includes at least one cooling gas outlet configured to face the object position, wherein the lighting device is configured such that cooling gas can leave the lighting device through the at least one cooling gas outlet.

30. The lighting device according to claim 29, wherein, the lighting device, preferably a corresponding radiation emitting unit, includes a cooling gas driver system including at least one cooling gas driver, wherein the cooling gas driver system is configured to drive cooling gas to flow through the cooling gas outlet.

31. The lighting device according to claim 30, wherein, the cooling gas driver is a fan.

32. The lighting device according to any one of claims 29 to 31, wherein, at least one of the radiation emitting units includes at least one cooling gas outlet facing the object position.

33. The lighting device according to any one of claims 29 to 32, wherein, at least one radiation emitting unit includes at least two cooling gas outlets preferably arranged in opposite end regions of the radiation emitting unit, for example separated along the main longitudinal axis.

34. The lighting device according to any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein, the radiation source carrier includes one or more cooling gas channels for allowing cooling gas to flow from one side of the radiation source carrier to the opposite side of the radiation source carrier.

35. The lighting device according to claim 34, wherein, each cooling gas channel forms a cooling gas outlet or each cooling gas channel is fluidly connected to at least one cooling gas outlet.

36. The lighting device according to claim 34 or 35, wherein, one or more cooling gas channels for allowing cooling gas to flow from one side of the radiation source carrier to the opposite side of the radiation source carrier are arranged adjacent to an edge laterally defining the radiation source carrier.

37. The lighting device according to any one of claims 30 to 36, wherein, the lighting device is configured such that cooling gas flows from a side of the radiation source carrier remote from the cooling gas outlet to the cooling air outlet.

38. The lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the radiation source carrier forms a cooling gas barrier and is enclosed, for example, there is no defined cooling gas channel in the radiation source carrier.

39. The lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, the lighting device includes an active radiation source cooling system.

40. The lighting device according to claim 39, wherein, the radiation source cooling system includes a gas driver, such as a fan, which is configured to move the radiation source cooling gas relative to the radiation source.

41. The lighting device according to claim 39 or 40, wherein, the active cooling system includes one or more gas drivers, such as fans.

42. The lighting device according to any one of claims 29 to 41, wherein, the temperature of the cooling gas at the cooling gas outlet is higher than the ambient temperature and less than or equal to the temperature at the radiation source or the radiation cooling body, the radiation source or the radiation cooling body being thermally connected to one or more radiation sources of the radiation emitting unit.

43. The lighting device according to any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein, the lighting device is configured such that the radiation source cooling gas is used as the cooling gas for cooling the irradiated object using the irradiated object cooling system.

44. A method for treating skin diseases, comprising the steps of: a) applying a pharmaceutical substance to the skin surface of the area to be treated; b) arranging the skin area to be treated at a predetermined object position of the lighting device according to any one of the preceding claims; c) irradiating the skin area to be treated using the lighting device.

45. The method for treating skin diseases according to claim 44, further comprising the steps of: adjusting the operation of the lighting device based on the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the emitted radiation and / or based on the temperature-dependent change in the light output power.

46. The method for treating skin diseases according to claim 44 or 45, further comprising the steps of: using the irradiated object cooling system to cool the skin area to be treated.

47. A method for operating the lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 43, comprising the steps of: - providing a measurement signal indicating the temperature-dependent change in the wavelength of the emitted radiation and / or indicating the temperature-dependent change in the light output power; - generating an operation signal according to the measurement signal, the operation signal being configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source of the lighting device or to invoke an adjustment of the wavelength of the radiation emitted by the radiation source of the lighting device, and / or - generating an operation signal according to the measurement signal, the operation signal being configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the light output power of the lighting device or to invoke an adjustment of the light output power of the lighting device.

48. A method for operating the lighting device according to any one of claims 1 to 43, comprising the steps of: - providing a measurement signal indicating the temperature at the irradiated area of the irradiated object, - Generate an operation signal based on the measurement signal, the operation signal being configured to cause the lighting device to adjust the operation of the irradiation object cooling system of the lighting device, or to invoke an adjustment of the operation of the irradiation object cooling system of the lighting device.

49. A computer program product comprising machine-readable instructions that, when loaded and executed on a processor, cause a lighting device to perform the method according to claim 47 or 48.

50. A computer-readable medium having stored thereon the computer program product according to claim 49.

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