Red light irradiation device and method for improving eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people

Abstract

The invention discloses a red light irradiation device for improving eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people, which comprises a shell used for accommodating and fixing a light source assembly, a control circuit board and a battery, the light source assembly comprises a round or oval cavity, a semiconductor light-emitting device and a light diffusion sheet, the inner wall of the cavity is a highly reflective surface, the semiconductor light-emitting device is arranged at the front end of the cavity, and the light diffusion sheet is arranged on the side, close to the eyes, of the rear end of the cavity; the invention relates to the technical field of vision improvement, a point-shaped light source is converted into diffusion transmission light through a light diffusion sheet, local strong light damage is avoided, long-distance irradiation is not needed, and the contradiction between safety and wearing performance of a traditional product is solved; the single-chip microcomputer controls multiple irradiation modes and supports light intensity adjustment and storage, a user can adjust the light intensity to comfortable intensity according to needs, meanwhile, high-frequency irradiation time is automatically limited, simultaneous irradiation of two eyes is achieved through a symmetrical binocular structure, training convenience is improved, and the device is particularly suitable for daily use of middle-aged and elderly people.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vision improvement technology for middle-aged and elderly people, specifically to a red light irradiation device and irradiation method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people. Background Technology

[0002] As we age, especially after 40, our vision gradually declines. Studies have shown that reduced mitochondrial activity in retinal cells is a significant factor contributing to vision loss. Vision decline not only affects quality of life but may also be a contributing factor to brain aging and even Alzheimer's disease. Currently, there are few effective interventions for the physiological aging of the retina.

[0003] Several international journal papers, including the 2014 paper "Recharging mitochondrial batteries in old eyes. Nearinfrared increases ATP" and the 2021 paper "Weeklong improved colour contrast sensitivity after single 670nm exposures associated with enhanced mitochondrial function" published in Scientific Reports, have confirmed that red light with a wavelength range of 650–900 nm (typical wavelength 670 nm) can increase mitochondrial activity and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production in retinal cells, thereby improving vision in middle-aged and elderly people.

[0004] Currently, there are products on the market that use 670nm LEDs (light-emitting diodes) to emit red light to improve eyesight, based on this principle. However, current commercially available products (such as a 670nm LED red light flashlight developed by a British company) have the following technical defects: 1. Optical design flaws: LEDs are point light sources. Directly illuminating the eyes can lead to uneven light intensity distribution in the retinal imaging area, easily causing residual photophobia. There is also a risk of localized light spots on the retina exceeding the safety threshold. Therefore, the light source of current products must be kept at a considerable distance from the eyes, making it impossible to make them into easily wearable glasses or eye shields. In some cases, they must even be held in hand, which is extremely inconvenient to use.

[0005] 2. Limited illumination modes and lack of light intensity and time control: There is only one switch control, and no function for users to adjust the light intensity themselves. Sudden changes in light intensity when turning on and off can cause discomfort due to pupil stress. It is also impossible to expand to other functions such as gradual brightening and dimming or pulsed illumination. Variables such as illumination duration are difficult to control, and the illumination effect cannot be guaranteed.

[0006] 3. Low application efficiency: The monocular time-sharing illumination mode can only illuminate one eye at a time, making it impossible to illuminate both eyes simultaneously, which doubles the usage time and results in low efficiency.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to solve the above problems and provide a red light irradiation device and irradiation method that is easy to wear, simple to operate, highly safe, and has program control function to improve the vision of middle-aged and elderly people. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, the present invention provides a red light irradiation device and irradiation method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people, which solves the problems of inconvenience in the use of existing devices and the single irradiation mode.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people, comprising: The housing is a symmetrical structure for simultaneous binocular illumination, used to house and fix the light source assembly, control circuit board, and battery; The light source assembly is symmetrically arranged inside the housing and includes a circular or elliptical cavity, a semiconductor light-emitting device, and a light diffuser. The inner wall of the cavity is a highly reflective surface. The semiconductor light-emitting device is located at the front end of the cavity and is used to generate red light with an effective wavelength range of 650~900 nanometers. The light diffuser is located at the rear end of the cavity on the side close to the eye and is used to convert the point light source into diffuse transmitted light. The control circuit board includes a microcontroller and a current control device connected in series with the semiconductor light-emitting device. It is used to store the illumination mode, receive button control signals, indicate the working status, and adjust the light intensity and timing during illumination. The control panel, located on the outer surface of the casing, includes power on / off buttons, brightness adjustment buttons, mode selection buttons, and LED indicators for user interaction.

[0010] Preferably, the semiconductor light-emitting device is a semiconductor light-emitting diode or a semiconductor laser tube, with a typical emission wavelength of 670 nanometers.

[0011] Preferably, the light diffuser uses nanoscale organosilicon microspheres to achieve efficient light uniformity, with a light transmission efficiency of more than 60% in the 650-900 nm wavelength band; light scattering uniformity (haze Hz) of more than 65%; an eye-facing angle of light after passing through the light diffuser of more than 100 milliradians; and light intensity uniformity of more than 75%.

[0012] Preferably, the portion of the outer shell that contacts the face is made of a soft, skin-friendly material.

[0013] Preferably, the outer shell has elastic straps on both sides for wearing and with adjustable length.

[0014] Preferably, the current control device is a transistor or a MOSFET, and the microcontroller is connected to the control electrode of the current control device through the IO pin to regulate the current of the semiconductor light-emitting device.

[0015] Preferably, the control circuit board is equipped with a rechargeable battery and a charging / discharging circuit.

[0016] A method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people by red light irradiation includes the following steps: Power on by pressing the button, and select the target mode from the various illumination modes stored in the microcontroller using the mode selection button; Wear the device and ensure the goggles fit snugly against your face so that the red light shines accurately into your eyes; When the device enters the working state, the MCU controls the light-emitting device to emit red light, which is then diffused into uniform light through the light diffuser to illuminate the eyes. During the illumination, the eyes should be kept open, and blinking and eye movement can be performed. The light intensity can be adjusted according to individual needs using the brightness adjustment key. The MCU stores the brightness value until the next readjustment. Once the preset irradiation time is reached, the device will automatically stop working, or it can be stopped and turned off midway via the control button; Each irradiation session lasts 2-20 minutes, and is conducted 1-3 times per day. When the irradiation frequency exceeds 2 times / 12 hours, the device automatically shortens the irradiation time.

[0017] Preferably, the irradiation modes include a regular continuous illumination mode, an automatic fine-tuning illumination mode based on usage frequency, and an automatic shortening of illumination time upon detecting frequent use.

[0018] Preferably, the illumination time of the conventional continuous illumination mode is 3 minutes; The irradiation duration of the automatic fine-tuning irradiation mode, which adjusts according to usage frequency, is 2-5 minutes, and a cycle period of 10-30 days can be set.

[0019] Beneficial effects This invention provides a red light irradiation device and method for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people, which has the following beneficial effects: The light diffuser converts point light sources into diffused transmitted light, with an angle of incidence of light into the eye >100 milliradians and light intensity uniformity >75%, avoiding damage from localized strong light. At the same time, another function of the light diffuser is to reduce the ratio of the length to the diameter of the light source component, that is, to shorten the length of the component, eliminating the need for long-distance illumination, making it easier to wear, and resolving the contradiction between safety and wearability in traditional products. The microcontroller controls multiple irradiation modes, supports light intensity adjustment and storage, and allows users to adjust to a comfortable intensity as needed. At the same time, it automatically limits the irradiation time of high-frequency irradiation, in compliance with safety standards such as IEC62471. The symmetrical binocular structure enables simultaneous illumination of both eyes, reducing usage time by 50% compared to the monocular time-sharing mode, improving training convenience, and making it especially suitable for daily use by middle-aged and elderly people; The soft, skin-friendly material conforms to the face, the adjustable elastic strap makes it easy to wear, the button-type control panel is simple and intuitive, and the power-on / off gradual brightening and dimming function reduces pupil irritation and enhances the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 2 This is a top sectional view of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the light source assembly of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the control principle of the present invention.

[0024] In the diagram: 1. Outer shell; 2. Light source assembly; 21. Cavity; 22. Semiconductor light-emitting device; 23. Light diffuser; 3. Control panel; 4. Strap. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0026] Please see Figure 1-4 This invention provides a technical solution: a red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people, comprising: The outer casing 1 is a symmetrical structure for simultaneous binocular illumination, used to house and fix the light source assembly 2, the control circuit board, and the battery; The light source assembly 2 is symmetrically arranged inside the housing 1, including a circular or elliptical cavity 21, a semiconductor light-emitting device 22, and a light diffuser 23. The inner wall of the cavity 21 is a highly reflective surface. The semiconductor light-emitting device 22 is disposed at the front end of the cavity 21 and is used to generate red light with an effective wavelength range of 650~900 nanometers. The light diffuser 23 is disposed at the rear end of the cavity 21 on the side close to the eye and is used to convert the point light source into diffuse transmitted light. The control circuit board includes a microcontroller and a current control device connected in series with the semiconductor light-emitting device 22. It is used to store the illumination mode, receive button control signals, indicate the working status, and adjust the light intensity and timing during illumination. The control panel 3, located on the outer surface of the housing 1, includes a power on / off switch, a light intensity adjustment button, a mode selection button, and LED indicators for user interaction.

[0027] By adopting the above technical solution, after the user wears the device, the semiconductor light-emitting device 22 generates 650-900 nanometer red light, which is reflected by the high-reflectivity cavity 21 to improve the utilization rate of light. The light diffuser 23 forms uniform diffused light to illuminate the eyes. The light diffuser has a light transmission efficiency of more than 60% for light in the 650-900 nanometer band; the light scattering uniformity (haze Hz) is greater than 65%; after scattering, the angle of light entering the eye is greater than 100 milliradians, and the light intensity uniformity is greater than 75%. Currently, the light diffuser uses nanoscale organic silicon microspheres, which utilize the refractive index difference between them and the substrate (PET / PC) to achieve efficient light uniformity and simultaneously improve light transmittance and haze. The control circuit board receives button signals, the microcontroller adjusts the light intensity, timing and mode switching, and the battery continuously supplies power to ensure stable operation, realizing safe, uniform and controllable red light illumination, solving the problems of uneven light intensity and inconvenient operation of traditional products.

[0028] In this embodiment, the semiconductor light-emitting device 22 is further configured to be a semiconductor light-emitting diode or a semiconductor laser tube, with a typical emission wavelength of 670 nanometers.

[0029] In this embodiment, the light diffuser 23 is further configured to use nanoscale organic silicon microspheres to achieve efficient light uniformity, with a light transmission efficiency of more than 60% in the 650-900 nanometer wavelength band; light scattering uniformity (haze Hz) of more than 65%; an eye-facing angle of light after passing through the light diffuser 23 of more than 100 milliradians; and light intensity uniformity of more than 75%.

[0030] By adopting the above technical solution, after the light diffuser 23 is scattered, the red light forms a uniform spot on the retina. The design of the facing angle and uniformity ensures full retinal coverage, avoids insufficient or excessive local irradiation, improves the safety and effectiveness of irradiation, reduces residual photophobia, and makes the retinal cells more evenly irradiated.

[0031] In this embodiment, the part of the outer shell 1 that contacts the face is made of a soft, skin-friendly material.

[0032] By adopting the above technical solution, the part of the outer shell 1 that contacts the face is made of soft and skin-friendly materials, such as silicone and memory foam, which conforms to the contour of the eye socket, reduces light leakage and pressure, and improves wearing comfort.

[0033] In this embodiment, the outer shell 1 is further provided with elastic straps 4 on both sides for wearing and with adjustable length.

[0034] By adopting the above technical solution, the elastic strap 4 can be adjusted in length by buckling to fit different head sizes. The device is not easy to slip off when worn, ensuring that the red light accurately illuminates the eyes.

[0035] In this embodiment, the current control device is a transistor or a MOS transistor, and the microcontroller is connected to the control electrode of the current control device through the IO pin to regulate the current of the semiconductor light-emitting device 22.

[0036] By adopting the above technical solutions, the electronic control structure ensures stable and controllable light intensity and supports multi-mode output.

[0037] In this embodiment, the control circuit board is further configured to have a rechargeable battery and a charging / discharging circuit.

[0038] By adopting the above technical solutions, the built-in charging function improves the portability of the device, supports the cyclic charging of lithium batteries, avoids frequent battery replacements, and reduces usage costs.

[0039] A method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people by red light irradiation includes the following steps: Power on by pressing the button, and select the target mode from the various illumination modes stored in the microcontroller using the mode selection button; Wear the device and ensure the goggles fit snugly against your face so that the red light shines accurately into your eyes; When the device enters the working state, the MCU controls the light-emitting device to emit red light, which is then diffused into uniform light through the light diffuser to illuminate the eyes. During the illumination, the eyes should be kept open, and blinking and eye movement can be performed. The light intensity can be adjusted according to individual needs using the brightness adjustment key. The MCU stores the brightness value until the next readjustment. Once the preset irradiation time is reached, the device will automatically stop working, or it can be stopped and turned off midway via the control button; Each irradiation session lasts 2-20 minutes, and is conducted 1-3 times per day. When the irradiation frequency exceeds 2 times / 12 hours, the device automatically shortens the irradiation time.

[0040] In this embodiment, the irradiation mode is further configured to include a regular continuous irradiation mode, an automatic fine-tuning irradiation mode based on usage frequency, and an automatic shortening of irradiation time mode upon detecting frequent use.

[0041] In this embodiment, the illumination time of the conventional continuous illumination mode is further configured to be 3 minutes; The irradiation duration of the automatic fine-tuning irradiation mode, which adjusts according to usage frequency, is 2-5 minutes, and a cycle period of 10-30 days can be set.

[0042] Those skilled in the art can connect the components in this case sequentially. The specific connection and operation sequence should refer to the working principle described below. The detailed connection methods are well-known technologies in the field. The working principle and process are mainly described below.

[0043] Example: Place the device against your face and adjust the tightness using the four-strap buckle to ensure a tight seal against the skin and prevent light leakage. Aim the red light at your pupils and select the desired mode. After powering on, the red light will gradually brighten. Keep your eyes open and blink naturally or slowly scan the surroundings to allow the red light to evenly cover your retina. If you feel uncomfortable with the light intensity, press the light intensity adjustment button to adjust to a comfortable level. The microcontroller will automatically store this parameter. After a preset time, the red light will gradually dim and the device will automatically stop. To stop the process, press the power button. After 10-20 days of continuous use, you can observe changes in color discrimination ability. Switch modes as needed to gradually improve the training effect. Compared with medication and surgery, this invention provides a non-drug, non-invasive, and highly safe method for improving vision without drug side effects. After trial use by many middle-aged and elderly people, this device significantly improves the user's objective color discrimination ability and subjective visual perception within 10-20 days, with no adverse reactions. The best results were reported by people aged 50-70.

[0044] The control logic of this application is as follows: Figure 4 As shown, pressing the power button (or LED indicator) sends a power-on signal to the microcontroller. Upon receiving the signal, the microcontroller performs initialization to prepare for operation and simultaneously illuminates the corresponding indicator light on the button / LED indicator to indicate that the device is powered on. The user can select modes via the button / LED indicator, such as a regular continuous illumination mode, automatic fine-tuning of the illumination mode based on usage frequency, or light intensity adjustment. These operation signals are transmitted to the microcontroller, which determines the corresponding illumination mode and light intensity parameters based on the received signals and displays the relevant parameter information through the indicator lights on the button / LED indicator. The microcontroller also sends input to the transistor / MOSFET via I / O pins according to the set mode and parameters. The system outputs corresponding control signals to control the conduction state of the "transistor / MOSFET," thereby regulating its current supply to the "semiconductor light-emitting device." Driven by the current regulated by the "transistor / MOSFET," the "semiconductor light-emitting device" emits red light with an effective wavelength range of 650–900 nanometers. After being homogenized by the "light diffuser," it forms diffuse transmitted light that illuminates the eyes. When the device is turned off, pressing the power-off button in the "button / LED indicator" sends a power-off signal to the microcontroller. Upon receiving the power-off signal, the microcontroller stops outputting control signals to the "transistor / MOSFET," causing the "transistor / MOSFET" to turn off, the "semiconductor light-emitting device" to stop emitting light, and simultaneously extinguishes the corresponding indicator light in the "button / LED indicator," thus turning off the device.

[0045] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, the phrase "comprising an element defined as..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0046] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people, characterized in that, include: The outer casing (1) is a symmetrical structure for simultaneous binocular illumination, used to house and fix the light source assembly (2), control circuit board and battery; The light source assembly (2) is symmetrically arranged inside the housing (1), including a circular or elliptical cavity (21), a semiconductor light-emitting device (22), and a light diffuser (23). The inner wall of the cavity (21) is a highly reflective surface. The semiconductor light-emitting device (22) is disposed at the front end of the cavity (21) and is used to generate red light with an effective wavelength range of 650~900 nanometers. The light diffuser (23) is disposed at the rear end of the cavity (21) on the side close to the eye and is used to convert the point light source into diffuse transmitted light. The control circuit board includes a microcontroller and a current control device connected in series with the semiconductor light-emitting device (22), which is used to store the irradiation mode, receive button control signals, indicate the working status, and adjust the light intensity and timing during irradiation; The control panel (3) is located on the outer surface of the housing (1) and includes power on / off, light intensity adjustment, mode selection buttons and LED indicators for user interaction.

2. The red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people according to claim 1, characterized in that, The semiconductor light-emitting device (22) is a semiconductor light-emitting diode or a semiconductor laser tube, with a typical emission wavelength of 670 nanometers.

3. A red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people according to claim 1, characterized in that, The light diffuser (23) uses nanoscale organic silicon microspheres to achieve efficient light uniformity. The light transmission efficiency in the 650-900 nanometer band is greater than 60%; the light scattering uniformity is greater than 65%; the angle of the light entering the eye after passing through the light diffuser (23) is greater than 100 milliradians; and the light intensity uniformity is greater than 75%.

4. A red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (1) is made of a soft, skin-friendly material in contact with the face.

5. A red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer shell (1) has elastic straps (4) on both sides for wearing and with adjustable length.

6. A red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people according to claim 1, characterized in that, The current control device is a transistor or a MOS transistor. The microcontroller connects to the control electrode of the current control device through the IO pin to regulate the current of the semiconductor light-emitting device (22).

7. A red light irradiation device for improving the eyesight of middle-aged and elderly people according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control circuit board is equipped with a rechargeable battery and a charging / discharging circuit.

8. A method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people by red light irradiation, based on the red light irradiation device for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Power on by pressing the button, and select the target mode from the various illumination modes stored in the microcontroller using the mode selection button; Wear the device and ensure the goggles fit snugly against your face so that the red light shines accurately into your eyes; When the device enters the working state, the MCU controls the light-emitting device to emit red light, which is then diffused into uniform light through the light diffuser to illuminate the eyes. During the illumination, the eyes should be kept open, and blinking and eye movement can be performed. The light intensity can be adjusted according to individual needs using the brightness adjustment key. The MCU stores the brightness value until the next readjustment. Once the preset irradiation time is reached, the device will automatically stop working, or it can be stopped and turned off midway via the control button; Each irradiation session lasts 2-20 minutes, and is conducted 1-3 times per day. When the irradiation frequency exceeds 2 times / 12 hours, the device automatically shortens the irradiation time.

9. A method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people by red light irradiation according to claim 1, characterized in that, The illumination modes include a regular continuous illumination mode, an automatic fine-tuning illumination mode based on usage frequency, and an automatic shortening illumination time mode that detects frequent use.

10. A method for improving the vision of middle-aged and elderly people by red light irradiation according to claim 1, characterized in that, The illumination time for the conventional continuous illumination mode is 3 minutes; The irradiation duration of the automatic fine-tuning irradiation mode, which adjusts according to usage frequency, is 2-5 minutes, and a cycle period of 10-30 days can be set.

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