Mid-infrared laser and wormwood active substance combined physical therapy device and method
The physiotherapy device that combines mid-infrared laser with active substances from mugwort solves the problems of uncontrollable heat, smoke pollution, and difficulty in standardization associated with traditional moxibustion, achieving modernized, safe, and environmentally friendly therapeutic effects.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-03
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-31
AI Technical Summary
Traditional moxibustion suffers from problems such as uncontrollable heat, smoke pollution, difficulty in standardization and digitization, and low utilization rate of active ingredients in mugwort. Modern physical therapy equipment cannot perfectly replicate the core treatment mechanism of moxibustion.
The physiotherapy device, which combines a mid-infrared laser module with active ingredients from Artemisia argyi, includes a mid-infrared laser module, a physiotherapy probe, a temperature detection module, a control host, and Artemisia argyi extract dressing. It achieves closed-loop temperature control and controlled release of active ingredients, simulating the infrared radiation characteristics and synergistic effects of moxibustion.
It achieves standardization, safety, and environmental friendliness in moxibustion efficacy, avoids burns and smoke pollution, ensures precise control and data recording of the treatment process, and improves the utilization rate of active ingredients in mugwort.
Smart Images
Figure CN121754419A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical physiotherapy equipment technology, specifically to a physiotherapy device and method that combines mid-infrared laser with active substances from Artemisia argyi. Background Technology
[0002] Moxibustion, as an important external therapy in Traditional Chinese Medicine, generates heat and releases medicinal substances through the burning of moxa wool, allowing the warmth and medicinal effects to work together on acupoints along the meridians. However, traditional moxibustion has the following main problems: 1. Uncontrollable heat: Traditional moxa sticks burn at high temperatures and the heat transfer is unstable. The operation relies entirely on the personal experience of the practitioner, which not only easily causes skin burns, but also makes it difficult to accurately quantify the dosage, resulting in low repeatability and standardization of treatment effects. 2. Smoke pollution: The burning of mugwort produces a large amount of smoke, which contains particulate matter and a variety of volatile components. This smoke may not only irritate the user's respiratory system, but also severely restricts its use in professional medical places such as hospitals where environmental cleanliness requirements are extremely high. 3. Difficulty in standardization and digitization: The moxibustion process is greatly affected by human factors. From the selection and lighting of moxa sticks to the control of moxibustion distance and time, there is a lack of unified standards. This makes it difficult to accurately control and record the temperature, heat radiation dose and drug release during the treatment process, which restricts the scientific research and standardized promotion of moxibustion therapy. 4. Low utilization rate of active ingredients in mugwort: The release of medicinal properties in traditional moxibustion is highly dependent on combustion conditions and is affected by a variety of uncontrollable factors such as environmental humidity and fire intensity. As a result, the active ingredients in mugwort cannot be utilized efficiently and stably, which affects the full realization of its pharmacological effects.
[0003] Currently, in order to overcome the shortcomings of traditional moxibustion, a variety of modern physical therapy devices have emerged on the market, such as infrared therapy lamps and near-infrared laser therapy devices. However, these devices still cannot perfectly reproduce the core treatment mechanism of traditional moxibustion. Their limitations are mainly reflected in three aspects: mismatch of emission bands, lack of pharmacological effects of traditional Chinese medicine, and lack of real-time temperature control mechanism.
[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a modern physiotherapy device that can simulate the far-infrared radiation characteristics of moxibustion, combine the medicinal properties of moxa, and has real-time temperature control capabilities. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a physiotherapy device and method that combines mid-infrared laser with active substances from Artemisia argyi, so as to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances of Artemisia argyi, comprising a mid-infrared laser module, a physiotherapy probe, a temperature detection module, a control host and Artemisia argyi extract dressing; The mid-infrared laser module is used to output laser light with a center wavelength in the range of 3.4-3.6μm; The physiotherapy probe is connected to the mid-infrared laser module, and the laser is focused by the physiotherapy probe and then irradiates the skin surface. The temperature detection module is integrated on the outside of the physiotherapy probe and is used to monitor the temperature of the physiotherapy probe in contact with the skin in real time. The control host is used to receive the feedback signal from the temperature detection module and control the output power of the mid-infrared laser module to achieve closed-loop temperature control. The mugwort extract dressing is applied to the skin surface, and the mugwort extract dressing releases active ingredients and is absorbed transdermally under laser irradiation.
[0007] Preferably, the physiotherapy probe includes a probe housing, a mid-infrared focusing lens, and a temperature sensor. The probe housing is connected to the lower end of the mid-infrared laser module, the mid-infrared focusing lens is disposed inside the probe housing, the temperature sensor is connected to the left and right sides of the mid-infrared focusing lens, and the physiotherapy probe also includes an emission window disposed in the middle of the lower end.
[0008] Preferably, the mugwort extract dressing includes a light-transmitting protective layer, an adhesive layer, and a mugwort extract layer, which are arranged sequentially from top to bottom, and the mugwort extract dressing also includes a heat-insulating or heat-conducting structure.
[0009] Preferably, the mid-infrared focusing lens is a ZnSe lens; the exit window is made of either CaF2 or quartz material.
[0010] Preferably, the laser focus of the mid-infrared focusing lens is located within 1-5 mm below or on the skin surface.
[0011] Preferably, the temperature detection module is a non-contact infrared temperature sensor, whose detection field of view covers the emission window area.
[0012] Preferably, the control host includes a power modulation module, a signal processing module, and a temperature control unit with a PID control algorithm, and the control host is equipped with a user interface for setting the upper temperature limit, treatment duration, and output mode.
[0013] Preferably, the mid-infrared laser module includes a multi-wavelength output channel, including lasers with center wavelengths of 3.5 μm and 2.9 μm.
[0014] Preferably, the physiotherapy probe also includes a replaceable flexible sealing ring.
[0015] On the other hand, a method for using a physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi is also proposed, including the following steps: S1: Apply a dressing containing mugwort extract to the skin area to be treated; S2: Place the physiotherapy probe onto the surface of the mugwort extract dressing; S3: Set treatment parameters, target temperature range is 42-46℃, treatment duration is 3-15 minutes; S4: Initiate laser irradiation; S5: Real-time temperature control adjustment output; S6: Automatic shutdown after treatment.
[0016] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are: 1. This invention precisely matches the main radiation peak of traditional moxibustion by setting a mid-infrared laser module with a center wavelength in the range of 3.4-3.6μm, thus physically reproducing its core infrared radiation characteristics. Compared with the problem of wide or mismatched wavelengths in ordinary infrared physiotherapy devices, this design ensures the reliability of thermal stimulation and lays a solid physical foundation for therapeutic effects.
[0017] 2. This invention uses a dressing containing mugwort extract containing active ingredients to work in synergy with a mid-infrared laser. Under laser heating, the active ingredients are released and absorbed transdermally, thus modernly reproducing the synergistic mechanism of traditional moxibustion's medicinal and thermal effects. This design transforms the ambiguous thermal and medicinal effects in traditional moxibustion into a highly efficient solution that can be precisely controlled by parameters such as laser power, temperature, and time, achieving a high degree of standardization in moxibustion efficacy.
[0018] 3. This invention constructs a closed-loop temperature control system with real-time temperature feedback and dynamic adjustment of laser power by setting a temperature detection module integrated into the probe and a control host based on PID algorithm. This structure can accurately maintain the skin temperature of the treatment area within the set safe range and automatically prevent overheating, solving the risk of burns caused by uncontrollable heat in traditional moxibustion and ensuring the safety of the physiotherapy process.
[0019] 4. This invention forms a clear device structure by setting up a modular mid-infrared laser module, a physiotherapy probe and disposable moxa dressing, ensuring the reliability and reusability of the core components. At the same time, the design integrates handheld portability and data recording functions, so that it can meet the convenience needs of both hospitals and families.
[0020] 5. This invention eliminates the smoke, dust, volatile irritating gases, and potential fire hazards generated during the combustion process by replacing the traditional open flame with a laser, thus avoiding the limitations imposed on traditional moxibustion due to environmental pollution. Attached Figure Description
[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the physiotherapy probe of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the physiotherapy probe of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the Artemisia argyi extract dressing of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the usage method of the physiotherapy device of the present invention; Figure 5 Comparison of infrared spectral morphology of moxa sticks stored for five different years.
[0022] In the diagram: Mid-infrared laser module-100, probe housing-101, mid-infrared focusing lens-102, temperature sensor-103, mid-infrared beam-104, mugwort extract dressing-200, light-transmitting protective layer-201, adhesive layer-202, mugwort extract layer-203. Detailed Implementation
[0023] To further explain the technical solution of the present invention, a detailed description is provided below through specific embodiments.
[0024] Example 1: Please see Figures 1-3 The present invention provides a physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances of Artemisia argyi, including a mid-infrared laser module 100, a physiotherapy probe, a temperature detection module, a control host and Artemisia argyi extract dressing 200; The mid-infrared laser module 100 employs either a quantum cascade laser or an interband cascade laser, outputting a continuous wave laser with a center wavelength in the range of 3.4-3.6μm. The selection of this wavelength is based on an in-depth analysis of the combustion spectrum of moxibustion: the characteristic radiation peak of traditional moxa sticks is located in the mid-infrared band of 3.5-3.75μm. The laser wavelength of this device precisely covers the 3.5µm core band, simulating the firepower of moxibustion in its physical essence. At the same time, the output power of the mid-infrared laser module 100 is adjustable in the range of 10mW-5W, ensuring the flexibility of the treatment dosage. The physiotherapy probe includes a probe housing 101, a mid-infrared focusing lens 102, and a temperature sensor 103. The probe housing 101 is connected to the lower end of the mid-infrared laser module 100. The mid-infrared focusing lens 102 is located inside the probe housing 101. The temperature sensor 103 is connected to the left and right sides of the mid-infrared focusing lens 102. The physiotherapy probe also includes an exit window located in the middle of the lower end. The mid-infrared focusing lens 102 is a ZnSe mid-infrared lens that focuses the laser beam. After being focused by the lens, the laser beam forms a mid-infrared beam 104 that is emitted downwards. The exit window is made of CaF2. The device is made of quartz or other materials to ensure high transmittance in the mid-infrared band. The diameter of the focused spot is adjustable, and the focal point can be set at a depth of 1-5mm on the skin surface or under the skin to target superficial warmth or deep tissue thermal effects, simulating the heat penetration effect of moxibustion. The physiotherapy probe also includes a replaceable flexible sealing ring. The flexible sealing ring ensures that the physiotherapy probe fits tightly to the skin or dressing surface. At the same time, the flexible sealing ring can adapt to different parts of the skin through its own flexibility, improving comfort. The replaceable structure design facilitates subsequent cleaning, disinfection or replacement, and avoids cross-infection. The temperature detection module is integrated outside the emission window of the physiotherapy probe to collect temperature information at the emission window in real time. The temperature detection module is a non-contact infrared temperature sensor, and its detection field of view covers the emission window area. The control host receives feedback signals from the temperature detection module and controls the output power of the mid-infrared laser module 100 to achieve closed-loop temperature control. The control host has a built-in temperature control unit based on a PID algorithm. Users can set a safe upper temperature limit through the human-machine interface. The control host dynamically adjusts the laser power based on real-time feedback data. Its control strategy includes: The laser output will automatically decrease or shut off when the monitored temperature reaches the set upper limit. The laser power is automatically increased when the temperature is below the set lower limit. The machine will automatically stop after the preset treatment time is reached. Artemisia argyi extract dressing 200 is applied to the skin surface and includes a light-transmitting protective layer 201, an adhesive layer 202, and an Artemisia argyi extract layer 203, which are arranged sequentially from top to bottom. The Artemisia argyi extract dressing 200 also includes a heat-insulating or heat-conducting structure to improve the uniformity of laser heating distribution. The Artemisia argyi extract layer 203 is prepared by mixing the extract of 3-5 year old Artemisia argyi with a medical hydrogel matrix. Under the irradiation and heating of mid-infrared laser, the active ingredients of the Artemisia argyi extract dressing 200 are efficiently released and transdermal penetration is enhanced, thereby achieving the simultaneous pharmacological effect and thermal effect. The medical hydrogel matrix is one of polyacrylamide, polyvinyl alcohol, sodium alginate, hyaluronic acid, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose. Hyaluronic acid or sodium alginate has a good transdermal penetration promoting effect, so it is better as a matrix and more suitable to work synergistically with Artemisia argyi extract to exert the medicinal effect.
[0025] Example 2: Please see Figure 4 The method of using the physiotherapy device based on Embodiment 1 includes the following steps: S1: Cleanse the treated skin area and apply 200g of mugwort extract dressing to the target acupoints; S2: Gently press the tip of the physiotherapy probe against the mugwort extract dressing 200 to make the emission window fit tightly against the mugwort extract dressing 200. S3: Set treatment parameters via the control unit. The target temperature range is 42-46℃, and the treatment duration is 3-15 minutes. S4: Start laser irradiation. The beam is focused by the mid-infrared focusing lens 102 and penetrates the dressing to act on the skin. S5: The temperature sensor 103 inside the probe housing 101 continuously collects the temperature, and the control host adjusts the laser power in real time according to the feedback signal to accurately maintain the temperature within the set range. S6: After the set treatment time is reached, the device will automatically stop laser output and issue a prompt, indicating that the treatment is over.
[0026] Example 3: Based on Examples 1 and 2, this embodiment further optimizes the energy output mode of the mid-infrared laser module 100 and introduces multi-wavelength synergy to enhance therapeutic adaptability and efficacy.
[0027] Pulsed laser working mode: The mid-infrared laser module 100 supports continuous wave pulse mode. By adjusting the pulse repetition frequency and duty cycle, a gentler and more rhythmic thermal stimulation can be achieved on the skin tissue. This mode is particularly suitable for pain-sensitive areas, the face, or areas with thin skin. It can better activate temperature-sensitive ion channels such as TRPV1 through intermittent thermal stimulation while avoiding heat accumulation damage, thereby enhancing the therapeutic effect of neuromodulation.
[0028] The mid-infrared laser module 100 includes multiple wavelength output channels, including lasers with center wavelengths of 3.5μm and 2.9μm: Main channel: 3.5μm mid-infrared laser, simulating the main radiation peak of moxibustion, responsible for generating deep warming effect and activating the herbal components of moxa; Auxiliary channel: 2.9μm band laser, which is in the near-infrared region, corresponds to the strong absorption peak of water and has better tissue penetration. The addition of this wavelength achieves: It enhances energy absorption in superficial tissues, quickly generating a warming sensation; The 2.9μm band laser works in synergy with the mid-infrared band to achieve gradient heating from the epidermis to the deep tissues, more comprehensively simulating the characteristics of broadband infrared radiation from traditional moxibustion. The dual wavelengths can be set to output simultaneously or alternately to meet the different needs of different diseases for thermal stimulation modes.
[0029] Example 4: The above-mentioned physiotherapy device is compared with traditional moxibustion and existing infrared physiotherapy equipment in multiple dimensions as follows: As can be seen from the table comparison, compared with traditional moxibustion and existing infrared physiotherapy equipment, the physiotherapy device of this invention accurately matches the peak value of moxibustion infrared radiation in the heat source band, and also has the herbal physiotherapy effects of moxa. Through the closed-loop temperature control system, it achieves high precision and safe control of the treatment temperature, completely avoiding the burn and smoke pollution problems of traditional moxibustion. Overall, it realizes the digitalization, standardization and environmental friendliness of treatment, and shows significant comprehensive advantages in terms of efficacy, safety and applicability.
[0030] Example 5: This embodiment details the optimized preparation method of the active ingredients in Artemisia argyi extract dressing 200, which is key to achieving stable pharmacological effects.
[0031] Raw material selection: Prioritize aged mugwort leaves stored for 3-5 years. Figure 5 It can be seen that the infrared radiation intensity of 3-5 year old mugwort reaches a better balance with the enrichment of effective ingredients such as juniper oleracea and caryophyllene.
[0032] Extraction process: The volatile oil of Artemisia argyi is extracted by supercritical CO2 extraction or steam distillation, and non-volatile active substances such as flavonoids are obtained by alcohol extraction. The two extracts are then compounded in proportion to maximize the retention of the full spectrum of active ingredients released when Artemisia argyi is burned.
[0033] Drug-loaded matrix: The above-mentioned Artemisia argyi extract is mixed with a medical thermosensitive gel with a phase transition temperature of about 40-45°C. When the matrix is heated to the set temperature by laser, its fluidity or transdermal properties change abruptly, thereby intelligently controlling the release rate of active ingredients, achieving precise synchronization between drug release and thermal stimulation, and further improving the efficiency of "drug-thermal synergy".
[0034] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi, characterized in that: Includes a mid-infrared laser module (100), a physiotherapy probe, a temperature detection module, a control host, and an artemisia extract dressing (200). The mid-infrared laser module (100) is used to output laser light with a center wavelength in the range of 3.4-3.6μm; The physiotherapy probe is connected to the mid-infrared laser module (100), and the laser is focused by the physiotherapy probe and then irradiates the skin surface. The temperature detection module is integrated on the outside of the physiotherapy probe and is used to monitor the temperature of the physiotherapy probe in contact with the skin in real time. The control host is used to receive the feedback signal from the temperature detection module and control the output power of the mid-infrared laser module (100) to achieve closed-loop temperature control. The Artemisia argyi extract dressing (200) is applied to the skin surface, and the Artemisia argyi extract dressing (200) releases active ingredients and is absorbed transdermally under laser irradiation.
2. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 1, characterized in that: The physiotherapy probe includes a probe housing (101), a mid-infrared focusing lens (102), and a temperature sensor (103). The probe housing (101) is connected to the lower end of the mid-infrared laser module (100). The mid-infrared focusing lens (102) is disposed inside the probe housing (101). The temperature sensor (103) is connected to the left and right sides of the mid-infrared focusing lens (102). The physiotherapy probe also includes an emission window disposed in the middle of the lower end.
3. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mugwort extract dressing (200) includes a light-transmitting protective layer (201), an adhesive layer (202) and a mugwort extract layer (203), which are arranged sequentially from top to bottom. The mugwort extract dressing (200) also includes a heat-insulating or heat-conducting structure.
4. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 2, characterized in that: The mid-infrared focusing lens (102) is a ZnSe lens; the exit window is made of either CaF2 or quartz material.
5. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 2, characterized in that: The laser focus of the mid-infrared focusing lens (102) is located within 1-5 mm of the skin surface or under the skin.
6. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 4, characterized in that: The temperature detection module is a non-contact infrared temperature sensor, and its detection field of view covers the emission window area.
7. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 1, characterized in that: The control host includes a power modulation module, a signal processing module, and a temperature control unit with a PID control algorithm. The control host is equipped with a user interface for setting the upper temperature limit, treatment duration, and output mode.
8. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mid-infrared laser module (100) includes multiple wavelength output channels, including lasers with center wavelengths of 3.5 μm and 2.9 μm.
9. The physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi according to claim 2, characterized in that: The physiotherapy probe also includes a replaceable flexible sealing ring.
10. A method of using a physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi, comprising the physiotherapy device combining mid-infrared laser and active substances from Artemisia argyi as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: Apply a dressing of Artemisia argyi extract (200) to the skin area to be treated. S2: Apply the physiotherapy probe to the surface of the Artemisia argyi extract dressing (200); S3: Set treatment parameters, target temperature range is 42-46℃, treatment duration is 3-15 minutes; S4: Initiate laser irradiation; S5: Real-time temperature control adjustment output; S6: Automatic shutdown after treatment.