Systems and methods for skin treatment

Abstract

There is provided a skin treatment system comprising: at least one skin treatment device operable by a user for treating the skin during one or more treatment courses, the at least one skin treatment device comprising: a housing comprising at least two electrodes, the at least two electrodes are configured to be in conductive contact with the skin of the user when the housing moves on the skin of the user during an ongoing treatment session; a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment session; and a sensing circuit configured to measure, in real time, at least one parameter indicative of one or more characteristics of interaction of the skin treatment device with the skin during the ongoing treatment session; a user interface; and an analysis and feedback module configured to: receive, in real time, a measurement of the at least one parameter from the sensing circuit; performing an analysis of the received measurements to determine the one or more characteristics of the interaction of the skin treatment device with the skin; and providing treatment feedback based on the analysis to the user via the user interface during the ongoing treatment session, where the treatment feedback includes instructions that direct the user how to modify the interaction of the skin treatment device with the skin during the ongoing treatment session.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to a treatment system for providing treatment feedback to a user, and more specifically to a treatment system for providing real-time treatment feedback to a user and / or allowing physicians to update treatment. Background Technology

[0002] US Patent 10,045,820 by YOUNGQUIST et al. discloses "A dermatological treatment and analysis system comprising a handheld treatment device having a handheld body, a therapeutic radiation source for delivering dermatological treatment to the skin, and skin sensors configured to generate signals indicating one or more skin properties. A wireless transmitter is integrated into the handheld treatment device or in a docking / charging station receiving the handheld treatment device. The wireless transmitter is configured to receive skin-related data including signals from at least one skin sensor and / or information derived from such signals, and wirelessly transmit the received skin-related data for analysis by a remote data analysis system, which can analyze the received skin-related data to generate skin analysis data, and communicate the skin analysis data as feedback to the user of the handheld treatment device, for example via a website or application hosted on the user's internet-connected device." Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a skin treatment system is provided, comprising: at least one skin treatment device operable by a user for treating the skin in one or more treatment sessions, the at least one skin treatment device comprising: a housing including at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin as the housing moves over the user's skin during an ongoing treatment session; a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment session; and a sensing circuit, the sensing circuit being... The device is configured to measure at least one parameter in real time, the at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment; a user interface; and an analysis and feedback module configured to: receive measurements of the at least one parameter from the sensing circuitry in real time; perform analysis on the received measurements to determine the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; and provide treatment feedback based on the analysis to the user via the user interface during the ongoing treatment, wherein the treatment feedback includes instructions guiding the user on how to modify the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment.

[0004] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a computer-implemented method is provided for assisting a user during an ongoing treatment procedure performed by a user using a skin treatment system, the skin treatment system comprising: at least one skin treatment device operable by a user for performing one or more treatment procedures, the at least one skin treatment device comprising: a housing including at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin as the housing moves over the user's skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; and a sensing circuit configured to perform real-time... The method includes: measuring at least one parameter, the at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between a skin treatment device and the skin during an ongoing treatment session; a user interface; and an analysis and feedback module; wherein the method comprises: measuring the at least one parameter in real time by the sensing circuit; receiving the measurement of the at least one parameter in real time at the analysis and feedback module; performing analysis of the received measurement in real time by the analysis and feedback module to determine the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session; and providing treatment feedback based on the analysis to the user in real time via the user interface by the analysis and feedback module, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions instructing the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session.

[0005] The method and / or the skin treatment system may include one or more of the following features, and the sensing circuitry and the analysis and feedback module of the skin treatment system may be configured to implement one or more corresponding features of the following features: - Providing real-time treatment feedback includes providing treatment feedback before the termination of the ongoing treatment session; - Providing the treatment feedback in real time includes providing the treatment feedback within 30 seconds of the measurement of the at least one parameter; - Providing the treatment feedback in real time includes: providing the treatment feedback within 10 seconds of the measurement of the at least one parameter; - The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to modify the speed at which the housing moves across the skin during the ongoing treatment, in order to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; - The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that guide the user to adjust the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; - The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that guide the user to adjust the contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; - The at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: skin impedance between the at least two electrodes, conductivity, skin temperature, and ambient temperature; - One or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed of movement of the housing on the skin, the direction of movement of the housing on the skin, and the conductive contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin; - Real-time measurement of the at least one parameter includes: measuring the value pattern of the at least one parameter in real time within a predetermined time period; - The analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter, based on the analysis of the received measurements. -Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately; - The analysis and feedback module determines, based on the analysis of the received measurements, the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment process and the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter, and the analysis and feedback module determines, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment process is being performed inaccurately; - The analysis and feedback module determines, based on the analysis of the received measurements, the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment process and the predetermined value of the at least one parameter, and the analysis and feedback module determines, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment process is being performed inaccurately; - The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that guide the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment procedure; - The at least one parameter includes at least one of skin impedance and conductivity between the at least two electrodes, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the conductive contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin during the ongoing treatment session to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; Measurements performed by the sensing circuit include measurements performed by the at least two electrodes; - The sensing circuit includes at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one parameter includes at least one temperature of the skin; - The at least one temperature sensor includes: a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor, the first temperature sensor being used to measure a first temperature of the skin at a first location on the skin, and the second temperature sensor being used to measure a second temperature of the skin at a second location on the skin spaced apart from the first location; - The at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: the first temperature, the second temperature, the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, the average of the first temperature and the second temperature, and the pattern of the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature over a predetermined time period; - The first temperature sensor is located at the first electrode of the at least two electrodes, and the second temperature sensor is located at the second electrode of the at least two electrodes, the first electrode and the second electrode being spaced apart from each other; -The interaction between the device and the skin includes one or more characteristics including at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is greater than or less than a predetermined area, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher than or lower than a predetermined speed; - The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that guide the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin; -The skin treatment device is configured to operate during both the preheating and treatment phases; - The skin treatment device is configured to operate during the preheating phase when the skin temperature is below the target value, and during the treatment phase when the skin temperature is above the target value; - Maintain the skin temperature at or within the target value during this treatment phase; -Providing the treatment feedback in real time includes providing the treatment feedback in real time during at least one of the warm-up phase and the treatment phase; - The predetermined value pattern of at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value pattern of at least one parameter in the treatment phase; - The predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase; - The predetermined value of at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value of at least one parameter in the treatment phase; - The user receives, via the user interface, the selection of anatomical locations on the skin intended for treatment in the treatment procedure; - The predetermined value pattern of at least one parameter is associated with the selected anatomical location of the skin; - The predetermined value of at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin; - The predetermined value of at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin; - The movement of the housing on the skin includes the housing periodically passing over different parts of the skin within the region, each instance of the housing passing over the part heating the part, wherein the temperature of the part decreases between two consecutive instances passed, and the at least one parameter includes the temperature decrease, and the one or more characteristics may include at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin; - The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment; -The analysis and feedback module and at least one of the user interface constitute part of the skin treatment device; -The skin treatment system also includes a user device, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the user device; -The skin treatment device is configured to communicate with the user device via a wireless communication link; -The user equipment is a smartphone; -The wireless communication link includes Bluetooth; - The user interface includes a display, and the treatment feedback includes visual feedback; - The user interface includes a speaker, and the treatment feedback includes audio feedback; - This skin treatment device is a handheld device; and - This skin treatment device is a home-use skin treatment device.

[0006] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a treatment system is provided, comprising: a skin treatment system including at least one skin treatment device capable of being operated by a user to perform one or more treatment procedures on the user's skin, the at least one skin treatment device comprising: a housing including at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the skin when the housing is moved on the user's skin during at least one treatment procedure; and a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the at least one treatment procedure; wherein the skin treatment system is configured to calculate at least one treatment performance metric indicative of one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment procedure and to transmit the at least one treatment performance metric to a physician system; and the physician system located remotely from the skin treatment system and configured to receive the at least one treatment performance metric.

[0007] Based on various aspects of the currently disclosed subject matter, the skin treatment system may include one or more features of the skin treatment system described herein. Based on various aspects of the currently disclosed subject matter, the skin treatment system may be configured to perform one or more steps of the methods described herein.

[0008] The treatment system may include one or more of the following features: - The performance metric for at least one treatment course includes a treatment effectiveness score, which is calculated based on cumulative data collected during the at least one treatment course; - The one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment session include at least one of the following: the number of times the skin treatment device loses contact with the skin during the at least one treatment session, the number of times the skin temperature deviates from a predetermined value during the at least one treatment session, the number of times the at least one treatment session is paused during the at least one treatment session, and the duration of the at least one treatment session; - The effectiveness score of the treatment course is calculated based on one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment course; - The skin treatment system is configured to determine at least one treatment performance metric calculated based on a plurality of treatment performance metrics; -The at least one treatment performance metric includes a treatment effectiveness score; - The treatment effectiveness score is the average of the multiple treatment effectiveness scores corresponding to the multiple treatment performance metrics; - The physician system includes a physician user interface for displaying performance metrics or indications of the at least one treatment session; and - The physician system is configured to transmit treatment plans to the skin treatment system.

[0009] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a skin treatment system is provided, comprising: a housing including at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the skin as the housing moves over a treatment area of ​​a user's skin; a radiofrequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radiofrequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes, such that radiofrequency electromagnetic energy is applied to the treatment area of ​​the skin to heat the treatment area; at least one temperature sensor configured to measure at least one temperature of the skin; a user interface; and an analysis and feedback module configured to: receive measurements from the at least one temperature sensor; perform analysis of the received measurements; and provide the user with real-time treatment feedback based on the analysis via the user interface. The treatment feedback may include, for example, visual feedback provided as a notification.

[0010] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system includes a skin treatment device and a separate user device, wherein the skin treatment device includes a housing, a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator, and at least one temperature sensor, and wherein the user device includes a user interface and an analysis and feedback module.

[0011] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system includes a skin treatment device comprising: a housing, a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator, at least one temperature sensor, a user interface, and an analysis and feedback module.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one temperature sensor includes: a first temperature sensor configured to measure a first temperature of the skin; and a second temperature sensor configured to measure a second temperature of the skin, the first and second temperature sensors being spaced apart such that the first temperature of the skin is measured at a location spaced apart from the location where the second temperature of the skin is measured. Due to the space between the electrode and its corresponding temperature sensor, the temperature sensed by each of these sensors can indicate the temperature at two at least partially spaced locations on the skin. Measuring the temperature at the two spaced locations can indicate the size of the area contacted by the device during treatment, and thereby indicate the movement of the device on the skin by the user, and / or the speed at which the user moves the device on the skin.

[0013] In some implementations, the analysis of the received measurements includes comparing a first temperature and a second temperature to determine the characteristics of the treatment area.

[0014] In some implementations, comparing a first temperature and a second temperature includes calculating whether the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature exceeds a threshold, and wherein treatment feedback includes the treatment area size exceeding a target size when the difference exceeds the threshold.

[0015] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system is configured to heat the treatment area of ​​the skin to a target temperature during an initial preheating phase, wherein analysis of the received measurements includes a preheating analysis, which includes calculating the time variation of a preheating temperature indicator to determine the characteristics of the initial preheating phase, and wherein the analysis and feedback module is further configured to provide preheating feedback to a user via a user interface based on the preheating analysis.

[0016] In some embodiments, preheating analysis includes detecting a deviation of the preheating temperature indicator from a predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern, and wherein, when such deviation is detected, preheating feedback includes at least one of the following: an indication that the size of the treatment area exceeds a target size, and an indication that the movement speed of the housing exceeds a target speed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the preheating temperature indicator includes at least one of the following: a first temperature during the preheating phase, a second temperature during the preheating phase, and / or a temperature comparison measure indicating a comparison between the first temperature and the second temperature during the preheating phase.

[0018] In some implementations, the temperature comparison metric includes the difference between a first temperature and a second temperature, and wherein detecting a deviation from a predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern includes detecting that the difference exceeds a preheating temperature difference threshold within a predetermined time period.

[0019] In some embodiments, the preheating temperature indicator includes a first temperature during the preheating phase, a second temperature during the preheating phase, or an average of the two, and wherein detecting a deviation from a predetermined preheating temperature indicator includes the slope of the first temperature and / or the second temperature over time being lower than a predetermined slope threshold over a predetermined time period.

[0020] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system is configured to maintain a target temperature or a range including a target value for the skin during a treatment phase, wherein analysis of the received measurements includes determining whether a first temperature, a second temperature, and / or their average value decreases below the target temperature during the treatment phase, and wherein an analysis and feedback module is configured to provide treatment feedback based on the analysis indicating the effectiveness of the treatment.

[0021] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system is configured to heat the treatment area of ​​the skin to a target temperature during an initial preheating phase, and wherein analysis of the received measurements includes determining whether a first temperature, a second temperature, and / or their average value are below a minimum temperature threshold during the initial preheating phase.

[0022] In some implementations, the analysis and feedback module is also configured to receive conductivity measurements from at least two electrodes, and the analysis of the received measurements includes determining the characteristics of the conductive contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin.

[0023] In some implementations, the analysis and feedback module is configured to provide a treatment score after treatment is completed based on measurements received throughout the treatment duration.

[0024] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a (computer-implemented) method is provided, comprising: receiving measurements from at least one temperature sensor of a skin treatment system; performing analysis of the received measurements; and providing real-time treatment feedback to a user via a user interface of the skin treatment system. The present invention also envisions a computer program readable by a computer for performing at least a portion of one or more methods of this disclosure.

[0025] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a treatment system is provided, comprising: a skin treatment system having: a housing including at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the skin as the housing moves over a treatment area of ​​a user's skin; and a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes, such that radio frequency electromagnetic energy is applied to the treatment area of ​​the skin to heat the treatment area, wherein the skin treatment system is configured to determine at least one performance metric of the treatment, wherein the skin treatment system is configured to transmit the at least one performance metric to a server via a computer network; and a physician system connected to the server via the computer network, wherein the physician system is configured to access the at least one performance metric from the server, and wherein the physician system is configured to transmit a treatment plan to the skin treatment system via the computer network.

[0026] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a physician system is provided, comprising: a physician user interface; and a connection to a computer network including a remote server, wherein the physician system is configured to: receive at least one performance metric from the server via the connection to the computer network; display the at least one performance metric or an indication thereof on the physician user interface; obtain physician user input via the user interface to construct a treatment plan; and transmit the treatment plan to the server via the connection to the computer network.

[0027] In another aspect of the currently disclosed subject matter, a server is provided, comprising: a data storage area storing at least one database including: information about multiple patients and multiple corresponding treatment plans; and a connection to a computer network for communicating with multiple skin treatment systems and physician systems of the patients, wherein the server is configured to: receive at least one performance metric from one of the multiple skin treatment systems via the connection to the computer network; associate the received at least one performance metric with one of the multiple patients; send the at least one performance metric, together with the associated patient, to the physician system; receive a treatment plan from the physician system via the connection to the computer network; associate the received treatment plan with one of the multiple patients; and transmit the received treatment plan to the associated skin treatment system via the connection to the computer network.

[0028] In another aspect of the invention, a skin treatment device is provided, comprising: a housing including at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the skin as the housing moves over a treatment area of ​​a user's skin; a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes, such that radio frequency electromagnetic energy is applied to the treatment area of ​​the skin to heat the treatment area; at least one temperature sensor configured to measure at least one temperature of the skin; and a transmitter configured to transmit the measurement from the at least one temperature sensor.

[0029] In another aspect of the invention, a skin treatment device is provided, comprising: a treatment device configured to apply treatment to a user's skin; at least one sensor for measuring the nature of the treatment; and a transmitter configured to transmit measurements from the at least one sensor.

[0030] In some implementations, the at least one sensor is used to measure the properties of the skin.

[0031] Implementation The specific implementation details provide a more detailed description, while the following are non-limiting examples of different implementations of the subject matter currently disclosed.

[0032] 1. A skin treatment system, comprising: At least one skin treatment device, said at least one skin treatment device being operable by a user for treating skin in one or more treatment sessions, said at least one skin treatment device comprising: A housing comprising at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin as the housing moves across the user's skin during an ongoing treatment procedure; A radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; and A sensing circuit configured to measure at least one parameter in real time, the at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; User interface; and The analysis and feedback module is configured to operate in real time. Receive measurements of at least one parameter from the sensing circuit; Perform analysis of the received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; and During the ongoing treatment session, the user is provided with treatment feedback based on the analysis via the user interface, wherein the treatment feedback includes instructions that guide the user on how to modify the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session.

[0033] 2. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 1, wherein the analysis and feedback module configured to provide the treatment feedback in real time is configured to provide the treatment feedback before the ongoing treatment session is terminated.

[0034] 3. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the analysis and feedback module configured to provide the treatment feedback in real time is configured to provide the treatment feedback within 30 seconds from the measurement of the at least one parameter.

[0035] 4. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 3, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to provide treatment feedback within 10 seconds from the measurement of the at least one parameter.

[0036] 5. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to modify the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment process to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0037] 6. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment process to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0038] 7. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0039] 8. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: skin impedance between the at least two electrodes, conductivity, skin temperature, and ambient temperature.

[0040] 9. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed of movement of the housing on the skin, the direction of movement of the housing on the skin, and the conductive contact of the at least two electrodes with the skin.

[0041] 10. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the sensing circuit is configured to measure the value pattern of the at least one parameter in real time over a predetermined time period, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the analysis of the received measurements, a deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment and a predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter, and the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment is being performed inaccurately.

[0042] 11. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the analysis of received measurements, a deviation between a measured value of at least one parameter and a predetermined value range of the at least one parameter during the ongoing treatment process, and the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment process is being performed inaccurately.

[0043] 12. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the analysis of received measurements, a deviation between a measured value of at least one parameter and a predetermined value of the at least one parameter during the ongoing treatment process, and the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment process is being performed inaccurately.

[0044] 13. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 10 to 12, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment procedure.

[0045] 14. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of skin impedance and conductivity between the at least two electrodes, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the conductive contact of the at least two electrodes with the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0046] 15. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 14, wherein the sensing circuit includes the at least two electrodes.

[0047] 16. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the sensing circuit includes at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one parameter includes at least one temperature of the skin.

[0048] 17. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 16, wherein the at least one temperature sensor comprises: A first temperature sensor is used to measure a first temperature of the skin at a first location on the skin, and A second temperature sensor is used to measure a second temperature of the skin at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: The first temperature, The second temperature, The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, The average of the first temperature and the second temperature, and The pattern of the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature within a predetermined time period.

[0049] 18. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 17, wherein the first temperature sensor is located at a first electrode of the at least two electrodes, and the second temperature sensor is located at a second electrode of the at least two electrodes, the first electrode and the second electrode being spaced apart from each other.

[0050] 19. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 16 to 18, wherein the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is greater than or less than a predetermined area, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher than or lower than a predetermined speed.

[0051] 20. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 16 to 19, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

[0052] 21. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in a preheating phase and a treatment phase.

[0053] 22. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 21, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in the preheating phase when the temperature of the skin is below a target value, and to operate in the treatment phase when the temperature of the skin is above the target value.

[0054] 23. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 22, wherein the skin treatment system is configured to maintain the temperature of the skin at the target value or a range including the target value during the treatment phase.

[0055] 24. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 23, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to provide the treatment feedback in real time at least during one of the preheating phase and the treatment phase.

[0056] 25. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 24 when subordinate to embodiment 10, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

[0057] 26. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 25 when subordinate to embodiment 11, wherein the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

[0058] 27. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 21 to 26 when subordinate to embodiment 12, wherein a predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from a predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

[0059] 28. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the user interface allows the user to select an anatomical location of the skin intended for treatment in the treatment procedure.

[0060] 29. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 28 when subordinate to embodiment 10, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

[0061] 30. A skin treatment system according to embodiment 28 or 29 when subordinate to embodiment 12, wherein the predetermined value of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

[0062] 31. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 28 to 30 when subordinate to embodiment 12, wherein the predetermined value of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

[0063] 32. A skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the movement of the housing on the skin includes the housing periodically passing over different parts of the skin within a region, each instance of the housing passing over a part heating the part, wherein between two consecutive instances of passing, the temperature of the part decreases, and the at least one parameter includes the temperature decrease, and the one or more characteristics are capable of including at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

[0064] 33. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 32, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment.

[0065] 34. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 33, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the skin treatment device.

[0066] 35. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 33 further includes a user device, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the user device.

[0067] 36. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 35, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to communicate with the user equipment via a wireless communication link.

[0068] 37. The skin treatment system according to embodiment 36, wherein the user device is a smartphone, and / or the wireless communication link includes Bluetooth.

[0069] 38. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 37, wherein the user interface includes a display and the treatment feedback includes visual feedback.

[0070] 39. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 38, wherein the user interface includes a speaker and the treatment feedback includes audio feedback.

[0071] 40. The skin treatment system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 39, wherein the skin treatment device is a handheld device.

[0072] 41. A computer-based method for assisting a user during an ongoing treatment procedure performed by a user using a skin treatment system, the skin treatment system comprising: At least one skin treatment device, said at least one skin treatment device being user-operable for performing one or more treatment procedures, said at least one skin treatment device comprising: A housing comprising at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin as the housing moves across the user's skin during an ongoing treatment procedure; A radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; and A sensing circuit configured to measure at least one parameter in real time, the at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; User interface; and Analysis and feedback module; The method includes: The sensing circuit measures at least one parameter in real time; The measurement of at least one parameter is received in real time at the analysis and feedback module; The analysis and feedback module performs real-time analysis of the received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session; and The analysis and feedback module provides the user with real-time treatment feedback based on the analysis via the user interface, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that guide the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment.

[0073] 42. The method according to embodiment 41, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time includes providing the treatment feedback before the ongoing treatment course is terminated.

[0074] 43. The method according to embodiment 41 or 42, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time includes providing the treatment feedback within 30 seconds from the measurement of the at least one parameter.

[0075] 44. The method according to embodiment 43, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time includes providing the treatment feedback within 10 seconds from the measurement of the at least one parameter.

[0076] 45. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 44, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to modify the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0077] 46. ​​The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 45, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0078] 47. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 46, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0079] 48. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 47, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: skin impedance between the at least two electrodes, conductivity, skin temperature, and ambient temperature.

[0080] 49. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 48, wherein one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed of movement of the housing on the skin, the direction of movement of the housing on the skin, and the conductive contact of the at least two electrodes with the skin.

[0081] 50. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 49, wherein real-time measurement of the at least one parameter comprises: measuring the value pattern of the at least one parameter in real time over a predetermined time period, wherein the method further comprises: Based on the analysis of the received measurements, the analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and a predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter. Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

[0082] 51. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 50, wherein the method further comprises: Based on the analysis of the received measurements, the analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and a predetermined value range of the at least one parameter. Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

[0083] 52. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 51, wherein the method further comprises: Based on the analysis of the received measurements, the analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and a predetermined value of the at least one parameter. Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

[0084] 53. The method according to any one of embodiments 50 to 52, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment procedure.

[0085] 54. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 53, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of skin impedance and conductivity between the at least two electrodes, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the conductive contact of the at least two electrodes with the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0086] 55. The method according to embodiment 54, wherein the measurement by the sensing circuit includes the measurement by the at least two electrodes.

[0087] 56. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 55, wherein the sensing circuit includes at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one parameter includes at least one temperature of the skin.

[0088] 57. The method according to embodiment 56, wherein the at least one temperature sensor comprises: A first temperature sensor is used to measure a first temperature of the skin at a first location on the skin, and A second temperature sensor is used to measure a second temperature of the skin at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: The first temperature, The second temperature, The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, The average of the first temperature and the second temperature, and The pattern of the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature within a predetermined time period.

[0089] 58. The method according to embodiment 57, wherein the first temperature sensor is located at a first electrode of the at least two electrodes, and the second temperature sensor is located at a second electrode of the at least two electrodes, the first electrode and the second electrode being spaced apart from each other.

[0090] 59. The method according to any one of embodiments 56 to 58, wherein the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is greater than or less than a predetermined area, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher than or lower than a predetermined speed.

[0091] 60. The method according to any one of embodiments 56 to 59, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

[0092] 61. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 60, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in a preheating phase and a treatment phase.

[0093] 62. The method according to embodiment 61, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in the preheating phase when the temperature of the skin is below a target value, and to operate in the treatment phase when the temperature of the skin is above the target value.

[0094] 63. The method according to embodiment 62, wherein the method includes maintaining the temperature of the skin at the target value or a range including the target value during the treatment phase.

[0095] 64. The method according to any one of embodiments 61 to 63, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time comprises providing the treatment feedback in real time during at least one of the preheating phase and the treatment phase.

[0096] 65. The method according to any one of embodiments 61 to 64 when subordinate to embodiment 50, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

[0097] 66. The method according to any one of embodiments 61 to 65 when subordinate to embodiment 51, wherein the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

[0098] 67. The method according to any one of embodiments 61 to 66 when subordinate to embodiment 52, wherein the predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

[0099] 68. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 67, the method further comprising receiving, via the user interface, an selection of anatomical locations of the skin intended for treatment in the treatment procedure.

[0100] 69. The method according to embodiment 68 when subordinate to embodiment 50, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

[0101] 70. The method according to embodiment 68 or 69 when subordinate to embodiment 52, wherein the predetermined value of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

[0102] 71. The method according to any one of embodiments 68 to 70 when subordinate to embodiment 52, wherein the predetermined value of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

[0103] 72. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 71, wherein the movement of the housing on the skin includes the housing periodically passing over different parts of the skin within a region, each instance of the housing passing over a part heating the part, wherein between two consecutive instances of passing, the temperature of the part decreases, and the at least one parameter includes the temperature decrease, and the one or more characteristics are capable of including at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

[0104] 73. The method according to embodiment 72, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

[0105] 74. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 73, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the skin treatment device.

[0106] 75. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 73, wherein the skin treatment system further includes a user device, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the user device.

[0107] 76. The method according to embodiment 75, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to communicate with the user equipment via a wireless communication link.

[0108] 77. The method according to embodiment 76, wherein the user equipment is a smartphone, and / or the wireless communication link includes Bluetooth.

[0109] 78. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 77, wherein the user interface includes a display and the therapeutic feedback includes visual feedback.

[0110] 79. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 78, wherein the user interface includes a speaker and the therapeutic feedback includes audio feedback.

[0111] 80. The method according to any one of embodiments 41 to 79, wherein the skin treatment device is a handheld device.

[0112] 81. A treatment system comprising: A skin treatment system comprising at least one skin treatment device, the at least one skin treatment device being operable by a user to perform one or more treatment procedures on the user's skin, the at least one skin treatment device comprising: A housing comprising at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the skin as the housing moves across the user's skin during at least one treatment session; and A radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the at least one treatment session; The skin treatment system is configured to calculate at least one treatment performance metric indicating one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment session, and to send the at least one treatment performance metric to a physician system; and The physician system is located remotely from the skin treatment system and is configured to receive the at least one treatment performance metric.

[0113] 82. The treatment system according to embodiment 81, wherein the performance metric for the at least one treatment course includes a treatment course effectiveness score, the treatment course effectiveness score being calculated based on cumulative data collected during the at least one treatment course.

[0114] 83. The treatment system according to embodiment 81 or 82, wherein the one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment session include at least one of the following: The number of times the skin treatment device loses contact with the skin during the at least one treatment session. The number of times the skin temperature deviates from a predetermined value during at least one treatment session. The number of times the at least one treatment session was paused during the at least one treatment session, and The duration of the at least one treatment course.

[0115] 84. The treatment system according to embodiment 83 when subordinate to embodiment 82, wherein the treatment effectiveness score is calculated based on the one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment course.

[0116] 85. The treatment system according to any one of embodiments 81 to 84, wherein the skin treatment system is configured to determine at least one treatment performance metric calculated based on a plurality of treatment performance metrics.

[0117] 86. The treatment system according to embodiment 85, wherein the at least one treatment performance metric includes a treatment effectiveness score.

[0118] 87. The treatment system according to embodiment 86 when subordinate to embodiment 82, wherein the treatment effectiveness score is the average of the plurality of treatment effectiveness scores corresponding to the plurality of treatment performance metrics.

[0119] 88. The treatment system according to any one of embodiments 81 to 87, wherein the physician system includes a physician user interface for displaying performance metrics or indications of the at least one treatment course.

[0120] 89. The treatment system according to any one of embodiments 81 to 88, wherein the physician system is configured to transmit a treatment plan to the skin treatment system. Attached Figure Description

[0121] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can be implemented in practice, implementation methods will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A treatment system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 An exemplary skin treatment device for a treatment system; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A representative block diagram of the electrical system of a skin treatment device; Figure 4A This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a skin treatment system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a skin treatment device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a treatment feedback algorithm according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another therapeutic feedback algorithm according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating yet another therapeutic feedback algorithm according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for updating a treatment plan according to an embodiment of this disclosure; Figures 9A to 9C Exemplary user interfaces with real-time treatment feedback according to different embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated; Figure 10 An exemplary user interface illustrating treatment performance metrics according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated; and Figure 11 An exemplary user interface illustrating the selection of body regions intended for treatment is shown according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0122] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure can be practiced even without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units, and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure this disclosure.

[0123] Figure 1 A treatment system 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The skin treatment system 10 includes several elements that can be disposed in different locations, as described below.

[0124] Specifically, the treatment system 10 includes a skin treatment system 100, a physician system 200, a computer network 300, and a server 400.

[0125] The skin treatment system 100 is configured to communicate with the server 400 via a computer network 300. For example, as those skilled in the art will understand, the skin treatment system 100 may be configured to connect to the Internet, which provides access to both the computer network 300 and the server 400. Data (as described further in detail below) may be transmitted between the skin treatment system 100 and the server 400 via the computer network 300. Figure 1 As shown, data transmission occurs in two directions: data can be transmitted (uploaded) from the skin treatment system 100 to the server 400, and data can be transmitted (downloaded) from the server 400 to the skin treatment system 100.

[0126] The physician system 200 is configured to communicate with the server 400 via a computer network 300. For example, as those skilled in the art will understand, the physician system 200 may be configured to connect to the Internet, which provides access to both the computer network 300 and the server 400. Data (as described further in detail below) may be transferred between the physician system 200 and the server 400 via the computer network 300. Figure 1 As shown, data transmission occurs in two directions: data can be transmitted (uploaded) from physician system 200 to server 400, and data can be transmitted (downloaded) from server 400 to physician system 200.

[0127] Server 400 may include a data storage area 410 configured to store data. The data storage area 410 may take any form known to those skilled in the art; for example, the data storage area 410 may be a non-volatile storage device, such as one or more hard disk drives.

[0128] Data storage area 410 is configured to write data (whether in raw or processed form) received from skin treatment system 100 and physician system 200. Data storage area 410 is also configured to be readable / accessible, such that data stored therein can be processed and / or transmitted to skin treatment system 100 and physician system 200 via computer network 300.

[0129] As should be understood herein, in some embodiments, the skin treatment system 100 and the physician system 200 may be configured to communicate directly, for example, via a computer network (e.g., computer network 300), to transfer data between the skin treatment system and the physician system. Data transfer may occur in two directions: data may be transferred from the physician system 200 to the skin treatment system 100, and data may be transferred from the skin treatment system 100 to the physician system 200.

[0130] like Figure 1 As shown, the skin treatment system 100 includes a skin treatment device 110 and a user device 190.

[0131] The following text is about Figure 2 and Figure 3 Further details are provided for the skin treatment device 110.

[0132] In some implementations, the physician system 200 may be connected (via computer network 300) to multiple skin treatment systems 100 (and corresponding skin treatment devices 110). The multiple skin treatment systems 100 may be used by different patients (e.g., in different locations).

[0133] User device 190 can be any computing device that can be used by a patient / user (e.g., in their home). User device 190 can be separate from / independent of skin treatment device 110. For example, user device 190 can be a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. User device 190 includes a user interface that allows the patient / user to interact with skin treatment device 110. As those skilled in the art will understand, the user interface may include a screen, touch input, keyboard, mouse, and / or speakers.

[0134] The skin treatment device 110 is configured to connect to the user device 190, enabling the skin treatment device 110 and the user device 190 to communicate with each other. The connection between the skin treatment device 110 and the user device 190 can be implemented in any manner known to those skilled in the art (e.g., via Bluetooth®).

[0135] Data (as described in further detail below) can be transferred between the skin treatment device 110 and the user device 190. Data transfer occurs in two directions: data can be transferred (uploaded) from the skin treatment device 110 to the user device 190, and data can be transferred (downloaded) from the user device 190 to the skin treatment device 110.

[0136] User equipment 190 is configured to connect to computer network 300, for example, via an Internet connection. In this way, as those skilled in the art will understand, user equipment 190 can communicate with server 400 via computer network 300. In this embodiment, this connection from user equipment 190 allows the aforementioned functions of skin treatment system 100 to communicate with server 400 via computer network 300.

[0137] Accordingly, data (as described in further detail below) can be transmitted between the skin treatment device 110 and the server 400 (via the user device 190 and the computer network 300). Data transmission occurs in two directions: data can be transmitted (uploaded) from the skin treatment device 110 to the server 400, and data can be transmitted (downloaded) from the server 400 to the skin treatment device 110.

[0138] Because the physician system 200 is also capable of transmitting data to / receiving data from the server 400, data or its representation (as described in further detail below) can be transmitted between the skin treatment device 110 and the physician system 200 (via the user device 190, computer network 300, and server 400). The transmission of data (or its representation) occurs in two directions: data (or its representation) can be transmitted (uploaded) from the skin treatment device 110 to the physician system 200, and data (or its representation) can be transmitted (downloaded) from the physician system 200 to the skin treatment device 110. In some embodiments, the user device 190 can communicate directly with the physician system 200, for example, via a computer network (e.g., computer network 300).

[0139] User device 190 is entirely optional. In an alternative embodiment, skin treatment system 100 does not include user device 190. Instead, skin treatment device 110 itself can perform the functions of user device 190. For example, skin treatment device 110 may be configured to connect to computer network 300, for example, via an Internet connection. In this way, as those skilled in the art will understand, skin treatment device 110 itself can communicate with server 400 via computer network 300. In this embodiment, the connection from skin treatment device 110 allows the aforementioned functions of skin treatment system 100 to communicate with server 400 via computer network 300. In some embodiments (e.g., embodiments where skin treatment system 100 can communicate directly with physician system 200), skin treatment device 110 itself can communicate with physician system 200, and in such embodiments, the connection from skin treatment device 110 allows the aforementioned functions of skin treatment system 100 to communicate with physician system 200 via computer network 300. Skin treatment device 110 may include a user interface that allows patients / users to interact with skin treatment device 110. As those skilled in the art will understand, a user interface may include a screen, touch input, a keyboard, a mouse, and / or speakers. It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of this description, any reference to a user interface should be considered to include, within its scope, either or both of the user interface of user device 190 and the user interface of skin treatment device 110, unless specifically mentioned. For example, in some embodiments (e.g., where skin treatment system 100 does not include a user device and some or all of the functionality of the user device can be performed by the skin treatment device itself), the user interface of the skin treatment device may be configured to perform some or all of the functionality of the user interface of the user device as described herein.

[0140] The above configuration of the treatment system 10 allows for improved functionality compared to existing treatment systems. The specific form of the data (and its representation) will be described in detail below.

[0141] For example, potential advantages of a system like the one described herein (in which the handheld therapy device communicates at least indirectly with the physician's system) could include helping physicians determine whether home therapy has been performed correctly. Another potential advantage is that physicians can select or adjust treatment plans and transmit those plans to the handheld therapy device.

[0142] First, refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3This will be used to describe the data that can be measured by the skin treatment device 110 and the general operating principles of the skin treatment device 110. The skin treatment device 110 is merely one form of skin treatment device suitable for use with the treatment system 10. Accordingly, other skin treatment devices may be used alternatively with the treatment system 10. Generally speaking, the systems and / or methods described herein can be implemented using any energy-emitting home skin treatment device that is positioned to contact the skin for treatment.

[0143] The skin treatment device 110 includes a housing 111. The housing 111 may be configured in an ergonomic shape to allow a user to hold the skin treatment device 110 with one hand, and accordingly may be a handheld device. It should be understood herein that the term "handheld device" is intended to encompass, within its scope, a home-use device for performing skin treatments locally at home by a user. The shape of the housing 111 may be configured to allow the skin treatment device 110 to be held or moved over the skin to be treated.

[0144] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, a massage arm 112 extends from an end of the skin treatment device 110, the end being configured to rest against the skin to be treated. However, the massage arm 112 is entirely optional, and in alternative embodiments, the skin treatment device 110 does not include any massage arm. Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment, the massage arm 112 is configured to move. Therefore, when placed on the skin, the movement of the massage arm 112 enables massage of the skin between the massage arms 112. In an alternative embodiment, the massage arm may be fixed.

[0145] The material of the outer surface of each massage arm 112 can be selected to avoid irritating or chafing the skin. Before or during use, a lubricant, gel, or cream can be applied to each massage arm 112 and / or the user's skin. The lubricant, gel, or cream may be conductive.

[0146] The flexible sheath 113 of the skin treatment device 110 may be made of a flexible material, such as flexible plastic or rubber. The flexibility of the flexible sheath 113 allows the housing 111 to remain sealed while allowing the massage arm 112 to move.

[0147] Each massage arm 112 may contain, or be made of, a conductive material on part or all of its outer surface. For example, the conductive material may include metal, conductive plastic, or another conductive material suitable for inclusion in the outer surface of the massage arm 112. The conductive material acts as an electrode, which facilitates electrical coupling between the massage arm 112 and the skin to be treated. Accordingly, the skin treatment device 110 includes two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin when the housing 111 moves over a treatment area of ​​the skin (e.g., when a user performs a treatment or a portion thereof on the skin).

[0148] The skin treatment device 110 may include a user interface 114. The user interface 114 may include one or more controls. For example, controls may include one or more buttons (as shown), switches, joysticks, dials, or knobs. Users can operate the controls to control the operation of the skin treatment device 110. For example, operating the controls may power on or off the skin treatment device 110, enable connectivity with the user device 190 (e.g., Bluetooth® connection), set treatment power, or enter standby mode. Operating the user interface 114 may indicate the selected operating mode of the skin treatment device 110.

[0149] User interface 114 may include one or more indicators 116. For example, indicators 116 may include luminescent or other visible indications of the status of the skin treatment device 110, such as whether the skin treatment device is powered on / off and / or whether the skin treatment device has a connection to user device 190 (e.g., whether the skin treatment device has a Bluetooth® connection to user device 190). In some embodiments (e.g., embodiments where the skin treatment system does not include a user device), user interface 114 may include a display (e.g., a screen) on which data or its representation (described in further detail below) can be displayed to a user. In such examples, some or all of the functions of the user interface of the user device described herein may be performed by user interface 114 of the skin treatment device.

[0150] The skin treatment device 110 may include one or more connectors 118. Connectors 118 may be configured to connect to corresponding connectors on appropriate cables. For example, connectors 118 may be configured to allow the skin treatment device 110 to connect to an external power source (e.g., a transmission line or power grid, or a power adapter, converter, or transformer) via an appropriate power cable. Additionally / alternatively, connectors 118 may connect to user equipment 190, thereby forming a wired connection to that user equipment (e.g., alternatively, any wireless connection between the skin treatment device 110 and user equipment 190).

[0151] In some embodiments, the skin treatment device 110 may include a battery cell / cell. The skin treatment device 110 may be powered by the battery cell / cell. The battery cell / cell may optionally be rechargeable using connector 118.

[0152] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of the electrical system 120 of the skin treatment device 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0153] Electrical system 120 may include a controller 140 for controlling the operation of skin treatment device 110. Controller 140 may represent one or more interconnected units configured to coordinate various components of electrical system 120. Controller 140 may include one or more processors configured to operate according to programmed instructions. In another example, controller 140 may include circuitry (e.g., in the form of integrated control circuitry) configured to operate components of skin treatment device 110.

[0154] The controller 140 can communicate with the data storage unit 142. The data storage unit 142 may include one or more volatile or non-volatile data storage devices, or may represent the data storage functionality of the device. For example, the data storage unit 142 may include a non-volatile data storage device for storing programming instructions or data for operating the skin treatment device 110 according to some embodiments of this disclosure. The data storage unit 142 can be used to store data generated by the processor-type controller 140 during operation of the skin treatment device 110.

[0155] Controller 140 can be configured to detect operations on user interface 114. Controller 140 can operate based on detected user operations on one or more controls of user interface 114.

[0156] Controller 140 acts as an analysis and feedback module, and is configured to perform at least the following: Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The various treatment feedback algorithms described.

[0157] The controller 140 may be configured to operate one or more indicators 116. For example, the indicators 116 may be operated to indicate the current state or operating status of a component of the electrical system 120 or the controller 140.

[0158] The controller 140 can communicate with components and circuitry used to generate radio frequency electromagnetic signals. Specifically, the controller 140 can control a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator 144. The radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 is configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to electrodes 145, thereby applying radio frequency to the skin. The radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 may represent one or more components or modules of the controller 140, and may include components independent of the controller 140, or both. The radio frequency electromagnetic signals generated by the radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 can be conducted to one or more massage arms 112, and ultimately to electrodes 145 on each of the massage arms, thereby inducing a radio frequency current in the skin in contact with the electrodes 145.

[0159] The controller 140 and / or the radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 may be configured to measure the impedance between electrodes 145, as understood by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, during operation, electrodes 145 may be used to measure the impedance of the skin between electrodes 145.

[0160] Electrical system 120 may be connected to or communicate with at least one sensing circuit 130. In some embodiments, at least one sensing circuit may include one or more temperature sensors. Temperature sensors may be mounted on massage arms 112. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor may be provided in each massage arm of massage arms 112. Each temperature sensor may sense the temperature of the skin at a corresponding contact point where the massage arm 112 contacts the skin. Thus, the temperature sensors are configured to sense the temperature of the skin at the contact point where an electromagnetic radio frequency signal is provided to the skin, thereby ensuring higher accuracy in sensing the skin temperature at the contact point where the electromagnetic radio frequency signal is received. In some embodiments, at least one sensing circuit may include one or more sensors operable to sense (or measure) the impedance and / or conductivity of the skin between electrodes 145. In some embodiments, at least one sensing circuit may be at least partially constituted by at least one electrode of the electrodes.

[0161] In some implementations, at least one of the one or more temperature sensors may be located on any part of the housing other than the massage arm.

[0162] The controller 140 can control the radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 to select a radio frequency electromagnetic signal based on user operation of the user interface 114, measurements from the temperature sensor, measurements of impedance between electrodes 145, program instructions stored on the data storage device 142, and any other measurements performed by the skin treatment device 110.

[0163] The controller 140 can communicate with components and circuitry for controlling the movement of moving parts, such as the massage arm 112. The motion controller 148 can be configured to operate the motor 122. For example, the motion controller 148 can be configured to adjust the current supplied to the drive motor 122 to cause the drive motor 122 to operate at a specific speed. Operation of the drive motor 122 causes the massage arm 112 to move in a predetermined manner.

[0164] Electrical system 120 may include power source 150. Power source 150 may provide power for the operation of controller 140 or another component of electrical system 120. Power source 150 may include a replaceable or rechargeable power source, such as a replaceable or rechargeable battery or cell. Power source 150 may be connected to an external power source, such as a power grid, generator, or power supply device, via connector 118.

[0165] Electrical system 120 may also include communication module 160. Controller 140 can be used to control communication 160 to communicate with user equipment 190, as described herein. Communication module 160 enables Bluetooth® connectivity with user equipment 190. In some embodiments (e.g., embodiments where the skin treatment system does not include a user equipment), communication module 160 may enable the skin treatment device to communicate directly with physician system 200, or via server 400, for example, through computer network 300.

[0166] Skin treatment device 110 is configured to operate according to a treatment plan (which may be interchangeably referred to herein as a treatment protocol and / or treatment). The treatment plan may be stored in skin treatment device 110 and / or user device 190. Treatment may include one or more treatment sessions requiring interaction between the skin treatment device (e.g., skin treatment device 110) and the user's skin. For example, a treatment session may include interaction between the user and the skin of the area to be treated (generally referred to herein as the treatment area). Treatment may include treatment sessions performed over a specific time interval (e.g., several hours, one day, several days, one week, or several weeks). Certain operating criteria of the skin treatment device 110 (e.g., treatment duration, treatment power, size of the treatment area, etc.) may be automatically set for each treatment session according to the treatment plan.

[0167] For example, the treatment plan can be configured by the physician system 200, as further described below. For instance, a physician using the physician system 200 can define an initial treatment plan (treatment protocol or treatment), and this can be updated (remotely) based on treatment results, treatment frequency, or any other information measured by the skin treatment device 110 or reported by the user. In the case of remotely updating the treatment plan, the user can receive an alert (e.g., a push alert) via the user device 110, for example. In some embodiments, the physician and physician system 200 can periodically monitor ongoing treatments and / or receive automatic alerts via the physician system 200 based on irregularities, deviations, outliers, etc., detected by a computer system.

[0168] Figure 4A This is a flowchart illustrating operation 500 of a skin treatment system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be understood herein that operation 500 exemplifies the operation of the skin treatment system 100, including operation by a user on a skin treatment device 110 for performing a treatment procedure on the user's skin. For example, a treatment procedure performed by a user at any given time is referred to herein as an ongoing treatment procedure. For example, a treatment procedure that has been started (initiated) but not yet completed is referred to herein as an ongoing treatment procedure. Operation 500 depicts a computer-implemented method (at least a portion of which is executed by a computer processor (e.g., controller 140)) for assisting a user during an ongoing treatment procedure performed using the skin treatment system.

[0169] A user initiates a treatment by activating the skin treatment device 110 and beginning interaction between the device and the skin (e.g., by touching the massage arm at the skin and moving the housing over the skin). Electrodes make conductive contact with the user's skin. A lubricant, gel, or cream may be applied to the massage arm and / or the user's skin. This lubricant, gel, or cream may be conductive. A radiofrequency electromagnetic signal generator supplies radiofrequency electromagnetic signals to the electrodes, which applies radiofrequency electromagnetic energy to the skin. The radiofrequency electromagnetic energy heats the skin. In some embodiments, the user can select the body part of the user to be treated, thereby defining the anatomical location of the skin being treated, such as… Figure 11 An exemplary user interface screen is shown.

[0170] At step 510, the sensing circuit 130 measures in real time at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure. It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, the real-time execution function is intended to mean, at least, that the function is performed while the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed and has not yet ended (terminated).

[0171] At least one parameter may include at least one of the following: skin impedance between at least two electrodes, conductivity, skin temperature, and ambient temperature. One or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin include the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed of movement of the housing on the skin, the direction of movement of the housing on the skin, and the conductive contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin. Generally, the measured parameters indicate the quality of contact between the device and the skin surface.

[0172] The analysis and feedback module (e.g., controller 140) receives measurements of at least one parameter in real time (from the sensing circuit). It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, the real-time receipt of measurements of at least one parameter by the analysis and feedback module means that the analysis and feedback module receives measurements of at least one parameter while an ongoing treatment procedure is being performed and the ongoing treatment procedure has not yet ended (terminated). It should also be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, the real-time receipt of measurements of at least one parameter by the analysis and feedback module means that the analysis and feedback module receives measurements of at least one parameter within a maximum of 30 seconds, 25 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 3 seconds, 2 seconds, or 1 second after the sensing circuit measures at least one parameter.

[0173] At step 520, the analysis and feedback module performs real-time analysis of the received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session. It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, the real-time execution of the analysis and feedback module on the received measurements means that the analysis and feedback module performs the analysis while the ongoing treatment session is being performed and has not yet ended (terminated). It should also be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, the real-time execution of the analysis and feedback module on the received measurements means that the analysis and feedback module performs the analysis within a maximum of 30 seconds, 25 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 3 seconds, 2 seconds, or 1 second after the measurement is received.

[0174] Generally, analyzing received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin may include comparing a measured value (or multiple measurements) of at least one parameter with a predetermined (stored) value (or multiple values) of at least one parameter to determine deviations of the measured value from the predetermined value. The predetermined value may be stored in memory, for example, as part of a treatment plan prescribed by a physician. The predetermined value of at least one parameter may be associated with the value of at least one parameter at a given time during the treatment course, a value that is expected for the accurate (e.g., within tolerance) performance of the treatment course. Accordingly, the measured value (or multiple measurements) of at least one parameter at a given time will be compared with the predetermined value of at least one parameter at that given time during the treatment course. Any given time can be, for example, a predetermined time after the start of the treatment course.

[0175] In some examples, the deviation can be compared to a predetermined threshold for the deviation, and based on that deviation, one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin can be determined, as described in further detail below.

[0176] Deviation of a measured value from a predetermined value (or, in some examples, deviation exceeding a threshold) may indicate that an ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately. It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, inaccurate performance of a treatment procedure means that the treatment procedure is not being performed in the manner prescribed by the physician in the treatment plan.

[0177] In some embodiments, analyzing received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin may include comparing a measured value (or multiple measurements) of at least one parameter with a predetermined range of values ​​for at least one parameter to determine if the measured value deviates from the predetermined range. The predetermined range of values ​​may be stored in memory, for example, as part of a treatment plan prescribed by a physician. The predetermined range of values ​​for at least one parameter may be associated with a range of values ​​for at least one parameter at a given time during the treatment session, which is expected to result in accurate (e.g., within tolerance) performance of the treatment session. Accordingly, a measured value (or multiple measurements) of at least one parameter at a given time will be compared with the predetermined range of values ​​for at least one parameter at that given time during the treatment session. Any given time can be, for example, a predetermined time after the start of the treatment session. A deviation of the measured value from the predetermined range of values ​​(or, in some examples, a deviation exceeding a threshold) may indicate that the ongoing treatment session is being performed inaccurately. It should be understood herein that a deviation of the measured value from the predetermined range of values ​​(or, in some examples, a deviation exceeding a threshold) may mean that the measured value is outside the predetermined range of values.

[0178] In some embodiments, at least one sensing circuit may be configured to measure a value pattern of at least one parameter in real time over a predetermined time period. This pattern may be a temporal variation pattern of at least one parameter over the predetermined time period. For example, at least one sensing circuit may be configured to continuously (or in short preset time intervals) measure the value of at least one parameter over the predetermined time period, the measured values ​​constituting a value pattern of at least one parameter. An analysis and feedback module may be configured, for example, based on analysis of the received measurements, to determine the deviation between the value pattern of at least one parameter measured during an ongoing treatment procedure and a predetermined value pattern of at least one parameter. The predetermined value pattern may be stored in memory, for example, as part of a treatment plan prescribed by a physician. The predetermined value pattern of at least one parameter may be associated with a pattern desired for the accurate (e.g., within tolerance) performance of the treatment procedure. Accordingly, a deviation of the measurement pattern from the predetermined pattern (or, in some examples, a deviation exceeding a threshold) may indicate that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately. In some embodiments, the measurement value pattern constitutes a slope (curve or graph) of the measurement value relative to time. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the predetermined pattern may constitute a slope (curve or graph) of the predetermined value relative to time.

[0179] In some implementations, predetermined values ​​and / or patterns may be associated with the anatomical location (based on body part) of the skin being treated during an ongoing treatment session. Accordingly, the analysis may take into account the anatomical location of the skin being treated, thereby potentially increasing the efficacy of the entire procedure. For example, as... Figure 11 As shown, users can select the body part to be treated during the treatment at the start of the treatment course, thereby selecting the anatomical location of the skin. Accordingly, for that treatment course, the analysis and feedback module can perform analysis based on predetermined values ​​and / or patterns associated with the anatomical location of the skin.

[0180] In some implementations, measurements and / or patterns can be continuously compared with predetermined values, ranges, and / or patterns as described above, and a deviation can only be identified as an indication that an ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately if a deviation is observed within a predetermined time period. For example, if a deviation is observed within a period shorter than the predetermined time period, the deviation can be ignored, and the deviation may not indicate that an ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

[0181] At step 530, the analysis and feedback module provides real-time treatment feedback to the user based on analysis via the user interface of the skin treatment system (which may be the user interface of the skin treatment device and / or the user device). The treatment feedback includes one or more instructions guiding the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment. It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, real-time provision of treatment feedback by the analysis and feedback module means that the analysis and feedback module provides treatment feedback while the ongoing treatment is being performed and has not yet ended (terminated). It should also be understood herein that, for the purposes of this specification, real-time provision of treatment feedback by the analysis and feedback module means that the analysis and feedback module provides treatment feedback within a maximum of 30 seconds, 25 seconds, 20 seconds, 15 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 3 seconds, 2 seconds, or 1 second from the measurement of at least one parameter.

[0182] In some implementations, the duration of the “real-time” feedback may vary, for example, based on the type of guidance given to the user and / or based on at least one parameter measured by the sensing circuitry. For example, if the therapeutic feedback involves loss of contact with the skin, the “real-time” duration may be less than 5 seconds; if the therapeutic feedback involves movement of the device on the skin, the “real-time” duration may be less than 15 seconds, 30 seconds, or 20 seconds.

[0183] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system may include a user device (e.g., user device 190), and either or both of the user interface and the analysis and feedback module may be part of the user device. In some examples, the analysis and feedback module may be part of the user device, and the user interface may be part of the skin treatment device. In some examples, the user interface may be part of the user device, and the analysis and feedback module may be part of the skin treatment device. In some examples, both the user interface and the analysis and feedback module may be part of the user device.

[0184] In some implementations, the skin treatment system may not include a user device, and both the user interface and the analysis and feedback module may be part of the skin treatment device.

[0185] In some embodiments, the user interface may include a display, and the therapeutic feedback may include visual feedback. In some embodiments, the user interface may include a speaker, and the therapeutic feedback may include audio feedback.

[0186] In some implementations, treatment feedback may include one or more guidance instructions that instruct the user to change the speed at which the housing moves across the skin during an ongoing treatment session, thereby altering the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0187] In some implementations, treatment feedback may include one or more guidance instructions that instruct the user to adjust the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during an ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

[0188] In some implementations, treatment feedback may include one or more guiding instructions that instruct the user to adjust the conductive contact of at least two electrodes with the skin during an ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin. For example, treatment feedback may include instructions instructing the user to change the orientation of the skin treatment device relative to the skin. For example, treatment feedback may include instructions instructing the user to press more firmly against the skin.

[0189] In some implementations, treatment feedback may include one or more instructions for the user relating to improving the effectiveness of the ongoing treatment.

[0190] In some implementations, treatment feedback may include one or more instructions guiding the user on how to modify the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment. For example, if it is determined, as described above, that the ongoing treatment is not being performed accurately, the treatment feedback may include one or more instructions guiding the user on how to modify the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment. Inaccuracies in the ongoing treatment and the instructions guiding the user on how to modify the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment may be based on measurement parameters and characteristics of the ongoing treatment indicated by the measurement parameters, as described in detail below.

[0191] In some implementations, at least one parameter may include at least one of skin impedance and conductivity between at least two electrodes. For example, a value at a given time or a pattern of skin impedance and / or conductivity between at least two electrodes may be measured. As described above, the measured value and / or pattern may be compared to a predetermined value or range of values ​​and / or a predetermined pattern at a given time to determine a deviation. This deviation may indicate that the measured value and / or pattern of at least one of the skin impedance and conductivity between at least two electrodes is not the expected value and / or pattern. Therefore, this deviation may indicate inaccurate contact between the electrodes and the skin. For example, if one or both electrodes are not in proper contact with the skin, the skin impedance and conductivity between at least two electrodes may deviate from the predetermined value and / or pattern. Accordingly, treatment feedback may include one or more instructions that guide the user to adjust the conductive contact of at least two electrodes with the skin during an ongoing treatment session. For example, as... Figure 9AAs shown, the instructions can guide the user to "press the device more firmly" against the skin. In some implementations, the instructions can guide the user to "adjust the orientation of the device" relative to the skin.

[0192] In some implementations, predetermined values ​​for expected skin impedance and / or conductivity are associated with the anatomical skin site being treated. For example, in areas with curved skin surfaces (e.g., on the face), the device may be set to "tolerate" more contact loss compared to less curved skin surfaces (e.g., the thigh). In another example, predetermined values ​​for expected skin impedance and / or conductivity are associated with the expected texture of the skin at the treatment site; for example, the skin on the legs or feet may be rougher and more uneven than, for example, facial skin, and therefore may affect the expected skin impedance and / or conductivity when in contact with electrodes.

[0193] It should be understood in this document that the skin impedance and / or conductivity between at least two electrodes can be measured by the electrodes, and therefore in some examples, the electrodes may at least partially constitute a sensing circuit.

[0194] In some implementations, at least one sensing circuit may include at least one temperature sensor, and at least one parameter may include at least one temperature of the skin.

[0195] In some embodiments, at least one temperature sensor may include a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor, the first temperature sensor being used to measure a first temperature of the skin at a first location on the skin, and the second temperature sensor being used to measure a second temperature of the skin at a second location on the skin spaced apart from the first location. At least one parameter may include at least one of the following: a first temperature, a second temperature, the difference between the first and second temperatures, the average of the first and second temperatures, and a pattern of the difference between the first and second temperatures over a predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the pattern of the difference between the first and second temperatures over the predetermined time period may constitute a slope (curve or graph) of the difference between the first and second temperatures relative to time. It should be understood herein that, for the purposes of brevity and ease of understanding of this specification, all first temperatures, second temperatures, the difference between the first and second temperatures, the average of the first and second temperatures, and the pattern of the difference between the first and second temperatures are collectively referred to herein as skin temperature. The difference between the first and second temperatures and the average of the first and second temperatures are collectively referred to herein as a comparative measure of the first and second temperatures.

[0196] In some embodiments, a first temperature sensor may be located at a first electrode of at least two electrodes, and a second temperature sensor may be located at a second electrode of at least two electrodes, and the first and second electrodes may be spaced apart from each other.

[0197] Accordingly, a value or pattern of skin temperature can be measured at a given time. As described above, the measured value and / or pattern can be compared with a predetermined value or range of values ​​and / or a predetermined pattern at a given time to determine a deviation. This deviation can indicate that the measured value and / or pattern of skin temperature is not the expected value and / or pattern. Therefore, this deviation can indicate inaccurate contact between the electrode and the skin, that the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is larger or smaller than a predetermined area, and / or that the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher or lower than a predetermined speed. For example, if the skin temperature does not rise to the predetermined temperature within a given time, this can indicate inaccurate contact between the electrode and the skin, that the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is larger than the predetermined area, and / or that the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher than the predetermined speed. For example, if the skin temperature exceeds the predetermined temperature within a given time, this can indicate that the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is smaller than the predetermined area, and / or that the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is lower than the predetermined speed.

[0198] Furthermore, the skin treatment device moves over the skin within an area. During its movement, the skin treatment device periodically passes over different portions of the skin within that area. Each instance of the skin treatment device passing over a portion heats that portion (using RF electromagnetic energy). The portion tends to cool down until the skin treatment device passes over it again. For example, between consecutive instances where the skin treatment device passes over a portion, the portion cools down at least slightly. This temperature drop between consecutive instances can constitute a parameter indicating the speed of movement of the skin treatment device over the skin. For example, the slower the movement speed, the greater the temperature drop at that portion between instances where the skin treatment device passes over it. If the temperature drop is greater than a predetermined value, this can indicate that the area is larger than specified and / or the movement speed is slower than specified, and therefore the treatment feedback can include instructions instructing the user to reduce the movement area and / or increase the speed. If the temperature drop is less than a predetermined value, this can indicate that the area is smaller than specified and / or the movement speed is greater than specified, and therefore the treatment feedback can include instructions instructing the user to increase the movement area and / or decrease the speed.

[0199] Accordingly, treatment feedback may include one or more instructions that guide the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed of movement of the housing on the skin, and the contact between the skin treatment device and the skin. For example, such as Figure 9B As shown, the instructions guide the user to adjust the moving area of ​​the skin treatment device to "form smaller circles" on the skin. In some implementations, the instructions guide the user to "slow down" to adjust the moving speed of the skin treatment device.

[0200] Real-time treatment feedback allows users to execute instructions within the feedback in real time, adjusting the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin. For example, a user can operate the device with one hand while holding the user interface with the other to follow instructions. In some implementations, the user interface may be located on the skin treatment device at a position where the user does not need to hold the device. Generally, real-time feedback and continuous determination of at least one parameter allows for immediate detection of inaccuracies in the user's operation of the device and can help the user accurately perform treatments, and particularly accurately operate the device, in real time (within seconds, a second, or even less). In some implementations, the user interface is continuously synchronized with the treatment device, enabling immediate notifications and instructions to the user.

[0201] It should be understood herein that, in some embodiments, the measured value and / or pattern of at least one parameter may not deviate from a predetermined value and / or pattern, thereby indicating that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed accurately. Accordingly, for example at step 540, treatment feedback may include guidance instructing the user to continue interacting with the skin treatment device without any changes. For example, as Figure 9C As shown, instructions can guide the user to continue (e.g., by notifying the user "You did a great job").

[0202] At step 550, it is determined whether the ongoing treatment session has been completed (i.e., terminated). If the ongoing treatment session has not been completed, the process moves to step 510 to continue the cycle of measurement, analysis, and real-time treatment feedback. If the ongoing treatment session has been completed, the process ends at step 560.

[0203] As should be understood herein, the skin treatment device can be configured to operate in both a preheating phase and a treatment phase. For example, the skin treatment device can be configured to operate in the preheating phase when the skin temperature is below a predetermined (target) value, and in the treatment phase when the skin temperature is above the predetermined (target) value. The analysis and feedback module can be configured to provide treatment feedback in real time during at least one of the preheating and treatment phases, as further described below.

[0204] Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating the operation 1000 of the skin treatment device 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] At step 1100, the user turns on the skin treatment device 110. At this step, the user can use the user interface 114 to set various user settings for the skin treatment device 110 and can receive treatment settings from the data storage device 142, as described above.

[0206] In some embodiments, the treatment device 110 receives treatment settings directly from the server 400 via a computer network. For example, the data storage device 142 may be optional and therefore omitted from the treatment device 110 (or, in another embodiment, the data storage device 142 may have limited capacity). In such cases, the treatment device 110 can receive treatment settings from the server 400 without storing the settings on the data storage device 142.

[0207] At step 1200, the skin treatment device 110 is configured to operate in an initial preheating phase, wherein the skin treatment device 110 is designed to bring the temperature of the treatment area to a target temperature. The skin treatment device 110 comes into contact with the user's skin, and the controller 140 controls the radiofrequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 to supply radiofrequency electromagnetic energy to heat the skin. During the initial preheating phase 1200, the treatment area of ​​the skin is heated to the target temperature. Throughout the treatment, the user moves the skin treatment device 110 around the treatment area of ​​the skin.

[0208] As described in detail below, during the initial preheating phase 1200, the skin treatment device 110 is configured to measure at least one parameter of the treatment process. For example, the at least one parameter measured may include at least one measurement of skin temperature by a temperature sensor and a measurement of conductivity between electrodes 145. At step 1290 (commonly used for 1290a and 1290b), the measurement data is analyzed, and at step 1290, treatment feedback is provided to the user in real time using a user interface, as described in detail above.

[0209] When the temperature of the skin's treatment area appropriately meets the target temperature (e.g., for a predetermined duration), the skin treatment device 110 is configured to transition to treatment phase 1300. Similarly, the controller 140 controls the radiofrequency electromagnetic signal generator 144 to supply radiofrequency electromagnetic energy (typically at a lower power than during the initial preheating phase 1200) to heat the skin. In this way, the skin's treatment area is maintained at the target temperature during treatment phase 1300. Throughout the treatment, the user moves the skin treatment device 110 around the skin's treatment area.

[0210] As described in detail below, during treatment phase 1300, the skin treatment device 110 is configured to measure at least one parameter of the treatment. For example, the at least one parameter to be measured may include at least one measurement of skin temperature by a temperature sensor and a measurement of conductivity between electrodes 145. At step 1390 (commonly used for 1290a and 1290b), the measurement data is analyzed, and at step 1390, treatment feedback is provided to the user in real time using a user interface.

[0211] Once treatment phase 1300 is completed, the treatment course is finished, and the device can be turned off at step 1400.

[0212] Various treatment feedback algorithms (and corresponding measurement parameters) are used during each of the initial warm-up phase 1200 and the treatment phase 1300 to provide customized treatment feedback to the user.

[0213] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating such a treatment feedback algorithm 1210. The skin treatment system 100 is configured to run the treatment feedback algorithm 1210, wherein the skin treatment device 110 and the user device 190 optionally perform various steps, as described below. In some embodiments, the steps of the user device may be performed by the skin treatment device itself. The treatment feedback algorithm 1210 is configured to run during the aforementioned initial warm-up phase 1200.

[0214] At step 1211, the skin treatment device 110 is configured to measure at least one parameter, such as at least one of the following: a first temperature and a second temperature. Temperature sensors can be used to measure the first and second temperatures. Specifically, a first temperature sensor is configured to measure the first temperature of the skin. A second temperature sensor is configured to measure the second temperature of the skin. The first and second temperature sensors are spaced apart such that the first temperature of the skin is measured at a location spaced apart from the location where the second temperature of the skin is measured. The parameter can be measured during a time period during the initial preheating phase 1200.

[0215] At step 1212, a preheating temperature indicator is determined based on at least one of the following: a first temperature, a second temperature, and a comparison metric indicating a comparison between the first and second temperatures. The time variation of the preheating temperature indicator is determined based on the preheating temperature indicator at different time points. The preheating temperature indicator and / or the time variation of the preheating temperature indicator may be calculated by the skin treatment device 110 (e.g., by the controller 140) or by the user device 190 (e.g., after receiving measurement parameters from the skin treatment device 110).

[0216] At step 1213, the time variation of the preheating temperature indicator is compared with a predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern. The predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern may be stored in the skin treatment device 110 (e.g., in data storage device 142) and / or the user device 190. The comparison of the time variation of the preheating temperature indicator with the predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern includes determining whether there is a deviation between the preheating temperature indicator and the predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern. For example, it may be determined whether the deviation between the preheating temperature indicator and the predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern exceeds a preheating temperature difference threshold within a predetermined time period.

[0217] If, for example, no difference is detected between the preheating temperature indicator and the predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern within a predetermined time period, then at step 1290a, corresponding treatment feedback is provided via the user interface of user device 190. For example, the user interface of user device 190 may display messages indicating that treatment is being performed correctly, the size of the treatment area is correct, and / or the movement speed of the skin treatment device 110 is correct. Step 1290a is purely optional, and conversely, if no difference is detected between the preheating temperature indicator and the predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern, the treatment feedback algorithm 1210 may immediately proceed to step 1214.

[0218] If, at step 1213, a difference is detected between the preheating temperature indicator and a predetermined preheating temperature indicator pattern within a predetermined time period, then at step 1290b, corresponding treatment feedback is provided via the user interface of user device 190. For example, the user interface of user device 190 may display messages indicating that the treatment was not performed correctly, the treatment area was too large, and / or the movement speed of skin treatment device 110 was too high.

[0219] In some embodiments, the preheating temperature indicator includes a first temperature and / or a second temperature, and the detection of a deviation from the predetermined preheating temperature indicator includes the slope of the first temperature and / or the second temperature over time being lower than a predetermined slope threshold within a predetermined time period.

[0220] Once any treatment feedback is provided at step 1290a or step 1290b, the treatment feedback algorithm 1210 moves to step 1214. The corresponding treatment feedback provided at step 1290a or step 1290b may remain on the user interface of the user device 190 until updated treatment feedback is provided (e.g., at the next instance of step 1290a or step 1290b).

[0221] At step 1214, the treatment feedback algorithm 1210 checks whether the initial warm-up phase 1200 has been completed. If the initial warm-up phase 1200 has not been completed, the treatment feedback algorithm 1210 optionally loops back to step 1211 with a time delay.

[0222] If the initial warm-up phase 1200 is completed, the treatment feedback algorithm 1210 ends at step 1215.

[0223] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating another therapeutic feedback algorithm 1220. The skin treatment system 100 is configured to run therapeutic feedback algorithm 1220, wherein the skin treatment device 110 and the user device 190 optionally perform various steps, as described below. In some embodiments, the steps of the user device may be performed by the skin treatment device itself. The therapeutic feedback algorithm 1220 is configured to run during the aforementioned initial warm-up phase 1200. The therapeutic feedback algorithm 1220 may run concurrently with therapeutic feedback algorithm 1210.

[0224] At step 1221, the skin treatment device 110 is configured to measure at least one temperature from a temperature sensor. For example, the skin treatment device 110 may be configured to measure a first temperature and / or a second temperature using the temperature sensor. Specifically, the first temperature sensor in the temperature sensor is configured to measure a first temperature of the skin. The second temperature sensor in the temperature sensor is configured to measure a second temperature of the skin. The first and second temperature sensors are spaced apart such that the first temperature of the skin is measured at a location spaced apart from the location where the second temperature of the skin is measured.

[0225] At step 1222, it is determined whether the first temperature, the second temperature, and / or their average value are below a predetermined minimum temperature threshold during the initial preheating phase. The predetermined minimum temperature threshold may be stored in the data storage device 142 of the skin treatment device 110 or in the user device 190.

[0226] If the first temperature, the second temperature, and / or their average value are not lower than a predetermined minimum temperature threshold, corresponding treatment feedback is provided via the user interface of user device 190. For example, the user interface of user device 190 may display a message indicating that the treatment is being performed correctly. Step 1290a is purely optional, and conversely, if the first temperature, the second temperature, and / or their average value are not lower than the predetermined minimum temperature threshold, the treatment feedback algorithm 1220 may immediately proceed to step 1223.

[0227] If, at step 1222, the first temperature, the second temperature, and / or their average value are below a predetermined minimum temperature threshold, corresponding treatment feedback is provided via the user interface of user device 190. For example, the user interface of user device 190 may display a message indicating that the treatment was not performed correctly and / or the skin temperature is too low.

[0228] Once any treatment feedback is provided at step 1290a or step 1290b, the treatment feedback algorithm 1220 moves to step 1223. The corresponding treatment feedback provided at step 1290a or step 1290b may remain on the user interface of the user device 190 until updated treatment feedback is provided (e.g., at the next instance of step 1290a or step 1290b).

[0229] At step 1223, the treatment feedback algorithm 1220 checks whether the initial warm-up phase 1200 has been completed. If the initial warm-up phase 1200 has not been completed, the treatment feedback algorithm 1220 optionally loops back to step 1221 with a time delay.

[0230] If the initial warm-up phase 1200 is completed, the treatment feedback algorithm 1220 ends at step 1224.

[0231] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the treatment feedback algorithm 1310. The skin treatment system 100 is configured to run the treatment feedback algorithm 1310, wherein the skin treatment device 110 and the user device 190 perform various steps, as described below. The treatment feedback algorithm 1310 is configured to run during the aforementioned treatment phase 1300.

[0232] In step 1311, the skin treatment device 110 is configured to measure a first temperature and a second temperature using temperature sensors. Specifically, the first temperature sensor is configured to measure a first temperature of the skin. The second temperature sensor is configured to measure a second temperature of the skin. The first and second temperature sensors are spaced apart such that the first temperature of the skin is measured at a location spaced apart from the location where the second temperature of the skin is measured.

[0233] At step 1312, the difference between the measured first temperature and the measured second temperature is determined. This difference may be calculated by the skin treatment device 110 (e.g., by the controller 140) or by the user device 190 (e.g., after receiving the measured first temperature and the measured second temperature from the skin treatment device 110).

[0234] At step 1313, it is determined whether the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature exceeds a threshold. This threshold may be predetermined and stored in the data storage area 142 of the skin treatment device 110 or in the user device 190.

[0235] If the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature does not exceed a threshold, then at step 1390a, corresponding treatment feedback is provided via a user interface. For example, the user interface of user device 190 may display a message indicating that the treatment is being performed correctly and / or the size of the treatment area is correct. Step 1390a is purely optional, and conversely, if the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature does not exceed a threshold, the treatment feedback algorithm 1310 may immediately proceed to step 1314.

[0236] If, at step 1313, the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature does indeed exceed a threshold, then at step 1390b, corresponding treatment feedback is provided via the user interface of the user device 190. For example, the user interface may display messages indicating that the treatment was not performed correctly and / or that the size of the treatment area is too large or too small.

[0237] Once any treatment feedback is provided at step 1390a or step 1390b, the treatment feedback algorithm 1310 moves to step 1314. The corresponding treatment feedback provided at step 1390a or step 1390b ​​may remain on the user interface until updated treatment feedback is provided (e.g., at the next instance of step 1390a or step 1390b).

[0238] At step 1314, the treatment feedback algorithm 1310 checks whether treatment phase 1300 has been completed. If treatment phase 1300 has not been completed (e.g., if the preset time for treatment phase has not yet elapsed), the treatment feedback algorithm 1310 optionally loops back to step 1311 with a time delay.

[0239] If treatment phase 1300 is completed, then treatment feedback algorithm 1310 ends at step 1315.

[0240] It should be understood in this document that the predetermined value pattern, predetermined value range, and / or predetermined value of at least one parameter differs during the preheating phase from that during the treatment phase.

[0241] During a treatment session, the skin treatment system 100 can measure one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin, and calculate one or more treatment performance metrics based on these characteristics. The skin treatment system 100 can provide a treatment effectiveness indicator (e.g., a percentage score) to the user via a user interface. The treatment effectiveness indicator may be provided at the end of the treatment session or periodically throughout the treatment. The treatment effectiveness indicator (score) may be calculated based on cumulative data collected throughout the treatment session. In some cases, the collected data is recorded and optionally stored in memory.

[0242] In some implementations, during the treatment course, the indication of treatment effectiveness may be based on the determination of whether a first temperature, a second temperature, and / or their average value has decreased below a target temperature, for example, weighted by the difference from the target temperature and the time spent above / below the target temperature.

[0243] Various therapeutic feedback algorithms can run individually or simultaneously, and can present users with various forms of therapeutic feedback throughout the treatment. Users can use real-time therapeutic feedback to improve treatment, thereby enhancing efficacy.

[0244] Physicians can use the treatment system 10 to further improve treatment efficacy. Generally, as detailed below, the initial treatment plan can be set by the physician (based on their experience, comparisons with other treatments for other patients (e.g., using artificial intelligence / machine learning), etc.), and can then be updated as the user applies the treatment (e.g., over time periods of days, weeks, and months).

[0245] For example, Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for updating a treatment plan by a treatment system (e.g., treatment system 10). Treatment system 10 includes a skin treatment system 100 and a physician system 200. Skin treatment system 100 and physician system 200 are configured to perform corresponding steps of the method described herein.

[0246] At step 2100, at least one treatment session of the initial treatment plan is performed using the skin treatment system 100. The initial treatment plan may be constructed based on the physician's prior knowledge / experience and / or using comparisons with previous treatments (e.g., using artificial intelligence / machine learning, etc.). The initial treatment plan may take into account certain patient characteristics, such as any combination of the following: age, sex, skin type, skin resistance, skin condition, patient goals, patient treatment availability, etc.

[0247] A user initiates at least one treatment session by turning on the skin treatment device 110 and beginning the interaction between the skin treatment device 110 and the skin (e.g., by positioning the massage arm on the skin surface (while holding it on the main body of the device) and moving the housing on the skin). Electrodes make conductive contact with the user's skin, and a radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator supplies radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the electrodes, which applies radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin, thereby heating the skin.

[0248] The skin treatment system 100 is configured, for example, to determine at least one treatment performance metric, indicating one or more characteristics of at least one treatment course, through an analysis and feedback module, and to send the at least one treatment performance metric to a physician system.

[0249] In some embodiments, at least one treatment performance metric may include a treatment effectiveness score. For example, a treatment effectiveness score may indicate the degree to which a treatment session was performed effectively. In some embodiments, one or more characteristics of at least one treatment session may include at least one of the following: the number of times contact between the skin treatment device and the skin was lost during at least one treatment session, the number of times the skin temperature deviated from a predetermined value during at least one treatment session, the number of times the at least one treatment session was paused during at least one treatment session, and the duration of at least one treatment session.

[0250] It should be understood in this document that if contact between the skin treatment device and the skin is frequently lost during at least one treatment session (e.g., the number of losses exceeds the predetermined number), the treatment session cannot be expected to be performed effectively. Similarly, if the skin temperature frequently deviates from the predetermined temperature (or temperature range) during at least one treatment session (e.g., the number of deviations exceeds the predetermined number), the treatment session cannot be expected to be performed effectively. Furthermore, if the treatment session is frequently paused during at least one treatment session (e.g., the number of pauses exceeds the predetermined number), the treatment session cannot be expected to be performed effectively. Additionally, if the total duration of the treatment session differs from the prescribed duration, the treatment session cannot be expected to be performed effectively.

[0251] Based on some or all of the features mentioned above, a treatment effectiveness score is calculated for one or more treatment courses and sent to the physician system. In some implementations, the treatment effectiveness score may be displayed to the user, for example, via a user interface (on a user device or skin treatment device). For example, such as Figure 10 As shown, the user interface can display a treatment effectiveness score, thereby notifying the user that "repeated contact loss" has been detected.

[0252] In some implementations, the skin treatment system 100 may be configured to indirectly send at least one treatment performance metric to the physician system 200 via, for example, through a server 400 and a computer network 300.

[0253] For example, at least one treatment performance metric (or its representation) may be uploaded to server 400 via computer network 300.

[0254] Server 400 may include a database stored in data storage area 410. This database may include a list of patients and corresponding patient data. At step 2200, at least one received treatment performance metric may be matched with a patient from the database. The data storage area may include data comprising multiple usage events associated with multiple different patients, where each usage event is associated with a skin treatment device, a usage event type (home treatment, professional treatment, low-power treatment, high-power treatment, maintenance treatment, etc.), and one or more parameters of the usage event. Usage event parameters may include a performance metric, the time of day, and / or the date of the usage event. Usage event parameters may also include the duration of the usage event. Server 400 may then transmit one or more performance metrics along with the associated patient data to physician system 200 via computer network 300. Physician system may enable the use of a dedicated graphical user interface, for example, to provide a prioritized list of patients from multiple patients based on comparisons of usage events associated with the same patient, usage event type, and usage event parameters. Physician system may be configured to compare different subsets of usage events with each other, where, for example, different subsets of usage events may be associated with the same user. For example, a physician system can determine whether the number of usage events associated with the same user and usage event type is relatively less or greater than the number of usage events in different, non-overlapping subsets of usage events associated with the same user and usage event type. In some cases, different, non-overlapping subsets of usage events are associated with date ranges different from the number of usage events, but with the same usage event type and time of day. This allows for the detection of usage patterns. For example, a physician system can be configured to identify users from a subset of users whose usage events for a specific usage event type have increased by more than X% over a certain time period compared to different time periods (e.g., the previous week). The physician system can also be configured to prioritize a list of users to indicate first those with the lowest or highest number of usage events for a specific usage event type (e.g., within a specific time range, such as a month).

[0255] In addition to the above, patient data contained in data storage area 410 may be used to determine an initial treatment plan at step 2100 (at least in part). For example, artificial intelligence / machine learning may be used in conjunction with existing patient data to recommend an initial treatment plan for physician review. Furthermore, physicians may propose treatment changes based on experience learned from other existing treatments in the patient data.

[0256] In some embodiments, at least one of the skin treatment system 100 and the physician system 200 may be configured to perform some or all of the functionality of the server 400. In some embodiments, the skin treatment system 100 and the physician system 200 may be configured to communicate directly, for example, via a computer network 300.

[0257] At step 2300, the physician uses the physician system 200 and its user interface (physician user interface) to view at least one treatment performance metric received from the skin treatment system 100. The physician can construct a revised treatment plan based on the at least one treatment performance metric and send the revised treatment plan to the skin treatment system 100 (directly or via server 400). The physician system may be able to communicate alerts to the user device via a network.

[0258] At step 2400, the skin treatment system 100 can be updated via computer network 300 using an updated treatment plan.

[0259] At step 2500, the user can then perform another treatment based on the updated treatment plan. There may be a time delay (e.g., one day, one week, or one month) between step 2400 and step 2500.

[0260] In some embodiments, the skin treatment system may be configured to determine at least one treatment performance metric that indicates one or more characteristics of the treatment. In some embodiments, the at least one treatment performance metric may include a treatment effectiveness score. For example, a treatment effectiveness score may indicate the degree to which the treatment was performed effectively. The treatment effectiveness score may be calculated based on multiple treatment performance metrics, for example, by calculating the average of multiple treatment effectiveness scores corresponding to multiple treatment performance metrics.

[0261] In this way, doctors can view the progress of home treatment performed by patients / users and provide updated treatment plans based on the progress. This can improve the effectiveness of treatment.

[0262] Furthermore, by basing the initial treatment plan on existing patient data, previous treatments can be used to improve the initial treatment plan, thereby improving the overall efficacy of the treatment.

[0263] Although at least one exemplary implementation has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that numerous variations exist.

[0264] For example, the skin treatment device 110 can measure various parameters of treatment, such as impedance, speed / direction of movement, contact, pretreatment skin temperature, and ambient temperature. Any combination of these parameters can be used in any of the methods described herein to provide treatment feedback to the user and / or be monitored by a physician using the physician system 200.

[0265] Furthermore, even though the skin treatment device 110 is described as being configured to supply radiofrequency electromagnetic signals to heat the treatment area, this is purely optional, and any other skin treatment device is suitable for the methods disclosed herein.

[0266] Additionally, in some embodiments, the physician system 200 may be connected (via computer network 300) to multiple skin treatment systems 100 (and corresponding skin treatment devices 110). The multiple skin treatment systems 100 may be used by different patients (e.g., in different locations).

[0267] It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes may be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the scope of this disclosure set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A skin treatment system, comprising: At least one skin treatment device, said at least one skin treatment device being operable by a user for treating skin in one or more treatment sessions, said at least one skin treatment device comprising: A housing comprising at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin as the housing moves across the user's skin during an ongoing treatment procedure; A radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; and A sensing circuit configured to measure at least one parameter in real time, the at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; User interface; and Analysis and feedback module, configured for real-time: Receive measurements of at least one parameter from the sensing circuit; Perform analysis of the received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin; and During the ongoing treatment session, the user is provided with treatment feedback based on the analysis via the user interface, wherein the treatment feedback includes instructions that guide the user on how to modify the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session.

2. The skin treatment system of claim 1, wherein the analysis and feedback module configured to provide the treatment feedback in real time is configured to provide the treatment feedback before the ongoing treatment session is terminated.

3. The skin treatment system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the analysis and feedback module configured to provide the treatment feedback in real time is configured to provide the treatment feedback within 30 seconds from the measurement of the at least one parameter.

4. The skin treatment system of claim 3, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to provide the treatment feedback within 10 seconds from the measurement of the at least one parameter.

5. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to modify the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment process to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

6. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

7. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

8. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: skin impedance between the at least two electrodes, conductivity, skin temperature, and ambient temperature.

9. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include: The area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed at which the housing moves on the skin, the direction of movement of the housing on the skin, and the conductive contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin.

10. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the sensing circuit is configured to measure the value pattern of the at least one parameter in real time over a predetermined time period, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the analysis of the received measurements, a deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment and a predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter, and the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment is being performed inaccurately.

11. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the analysis of received measurements, a deviation between a measured value of the at least one parameter and a predetermined range of values ​​for the at least one parameter during the ongoing treatment process, and the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment process is being performed inaccurately.

12. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the analysis of received measurements, a deviation between a measured value of the at least one parameter and a predetermined value of the at least one parameter during the ongoing treatment process, and the analysis and feedback module is configured to determine, based on the deviation, that the ongoing treatment process is being performed inaccurately.

13. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment procedure.

14. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of skin impedance and conductivity between the at least two electrodes, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the conductive contact of the at least two electrodes with the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

15. The skin treatment system of claim 14, wherein the sensing circuit includes the at least two electrodes.

16. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the sensing circuit includes at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one parameter includes at least one temperature of the skin.

17. The skin treatment system of claim 16, wherein the at least one temperature sensor comprises: A first temperature sensor is used to measure a first temperature of the skin at a first location on the skin, and A second temperature sensor is used to measure a second temperature of the skin at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: The first temperature, The second temperature, The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, The average of the first temperature and the second temperature, and The pattern of the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature within a predetermined time period.

18. The skin treatment system of claim 17, wherein the first temperature sensor is located at a first electrode of the at least two electrodes, and the second temperature sensor is located at a second electrode of the at least two electrodes, the first electrode and the second electrode being spaced apart from each other.

19. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is greater than or less than a predetermined area, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher than or lower than a predetermined speed.

20. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

21. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in a preheating phase and a treatment phase.

22. The skin treatment system of claim 21, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in the preheating phase when the temperature of the skin is below a target value, and to operate in the treatment phase when the temperature of the skin is above the target value.

23. The skin treatment system of claim 22, wherein the skin treatment system is configured to maintain the temperature of the skin at the target value or a range including the target value during the treatment phase.

24. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the analysis and feedback module is configured to provide the treatment feedback in real time at least during one of the preheating phase and the treatment phase.

25. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 21 to 24 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

26. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 21 to 25 when dependent on claim 11, wherein the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

27. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 21 to 26 when dependent on claim 12, wherein a predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from a predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

28. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the user interface allows the user to select the anatomical location of the skin intended for treatment in the treatment procedure.

29. The skin treatment system according to claim 28 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the predetermined value pattern of said at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

30. The skin treatment system according to claim 28 or 29 when dependent on claim 12, wherein the predetermined value of said at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

31. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 28 to 30 when dependent on claim 12, wherein the predetermined value of the at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

32. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the movement of the housing on the skin comprises the housing periodically passing over different parts of the skin within a region, each instance of the housing passing over a part heating the part, wherein between two consecutive instances of passing, the temperature of the part decreases, and the at least one parameter includes the temperature decrease, and the one or more characteristics are capable of including at least one of: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

33. The skin treatment system of claim 32, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment.

34. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the skin treatment device.

35. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 33, further comprising a user device, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the user device.

36. The skin treatment system of claim 35, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to communicate with the user equipment via a wireless communication link.

37. The skin treatment system of claim 36, wherein the user device is a smartphone, and / or the wireless communication link includes Bluetooth.

38. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 37, wherein the user interface includes a display, and the treatment feedback includes visual feedback.

39. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 38, wherein the user interface includes a speaker, and the treatment feedback includes audio feedback.

40. The skin treatment system according to any one of claims 1 to 39, wherein the skin treatment device is a handheld device.

41. A computer-based method for assisting a user during an ongoing treatment procedure performed by a user using a skin treatment system, the skin treatment system comprising: At least one skin treatment device, said at least one skin treatment device being operable by a user for performing one or more treatment procedures, said at least one skin treatment device comprising: A housing comprising at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the user's skin as the housing moves across the user's skin during an ongoing treatment procedure; A radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; and A sensing circuit configured to measure at least one parameter in real time, the at least one parameter indicating one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment procedure; User interface; and Analysis and feedback module; The method includes: The sensing circuit measures at least one parameter in real time; The measurement of at least one parameter is received in real time at the analysis and feedback module; The analysis and feedback module performs real-time analysis of the received measurements to determine one or more characteristics of the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment session; and The analysis and feedback module provides the user with real-time treatment feedback based on the analysis via the user interface, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that guide the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin during the ongoing treatment.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time comprises: Provide the treatment feedback before the ongoing treatment course is terminated.

43. The method of claim 41 or 42, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time comprises: The treatment feedback is provided within 30 seconds of the measurement of the at least one parameter.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time comprises: The treatment feedback is provided within 10 seconds of the measurement of the at least one parameter.

45. The method of any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to modify the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

46. ​​The method of any one of claims 41 to 45, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

47. The method of any one of claims 41 to 46, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

48. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 47, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: skin impedance between the at least two electrodes, conductivity, temperature of the skin, and ambient temperature.

49. The method of any one of claims 41 to 48, wherein the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include: The area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, the speed at which the housing moves on the skin, the direction of movement of the housing on the skin, and the conductive contact between the at least two electrodes and the skin.

50. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 49, wherein real-time measurement of the at least one parameter comprises: The method further includes measuring the value pattern of the at least one parameter in real time within a predetermined time period, wherein the method also includes: Based on the analysis of the received measurements, the analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and a predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter. Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

51. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 50, wherein the method further comprises: Based on the analysis of the received measurements, the analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and a predetermined value range of the at least one parameter. Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

52. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 51, wherein the method further comprises: Based on the analysis of the received measurements, the analysis and feedback module determines the deviation between the value pattern of the at least one parameter measured during the ongoing treatment course and a predetermined value of the at least one parameter. Based on the deviation, the analysis and feedback module determines that the ongoing treatment procedure is being performed inaccurately.

53. The method of any one of claims 50 to 52, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user on how to change the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin to accurately perform the ongoing treatment procedure.

54. The method of any one of claims 41 to 53, wherein the at least one parameter includes at least one of skin impedance and conductivity between the at least two electrodes, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust the conductive contact of the at least two electrodes with the skin during the ongoing treatment session to alter the interaction between the skin treatment device and the skin.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein the measurement performed by the sensing circuit comprises measurement performed by the at least two electrodes.

56. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 55, wherein the sensing circuit includes at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one parameter includes at least one temperature of the skin.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein the at least one temperature sensor comprises: A first temperature sensor is used to measure a first temperature of the skin at a first location on the skin, and A second temperature sensor is used to measure a second temperature of the skin at a second location spaced apart from the first location. The at least one parameter includes at least one of the following: The first temperature, The second temperature, The difference between the first temperature and the second temperature, The average of the first temperature and the second temperature, and The pattern of the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature within a predetermined time period.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein the first temperature sensor is located at a first electrode of the at least two electrodes, and the second temperature sensor is located at a second electrode of the at least two electrodes, the first electrode and the second electrode being spaced apart from each other.

59. The method according to any one of claims 56 to 58, wherein the one or more characteristics of the interaction between the device and the skin include at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin is greater than or less than a predetermined area, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin is higher than or lower than a predetermined speed.

60. The method of any one of claims 56 to 59, wherein the therapeutic feedback comprises one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

61. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 60, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate during a preheating phase and a treatment phase.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to operate in the preheating phase when the temperature of the skin is below a target value, and to operate in the treatment phase when the temperature of the skin is above the target value.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein the method comprises: During the treatment phase, the skin temperature is maintained at or within the target value.

64. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 63, wherein providing the treatment feedback in real time comprises: The treatment feedback is provided in real time during at least one of the preheating phase and the treatment phase.

65. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 64 when dependent on claim 50, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

66. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 65 when dependent on claim 51, wherein the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from the predetermined value range of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

67. The method according to any one of claims 61 to 66 when dependent on claim 52, wherein a predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the preheating phase is different from a predetermined value of the at least one parameter in the treatment phase.

68. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 67, the method further comprising receiving, via the user interface, an selection of anatomical locations of the skin intended for treatment in the treatment procedure.

69. The method of claim 68 when dependent on claim 50, wherein the predetermined value pattern of the at least one parameter is associated with the selected anatomical location of the skin.

70. The method according to claim 68 or 69 when dependent on claim 52, wherein the predetermined value of said at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

71. The method according to any one of claims 68 to 70 when dependent on claim 52, wherein the predetermined value of said at least one parameter is associated with the anatomical location of the selected skin.

72. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 71, wherein the movement of the housing on the skin comprises the housing periodically passing over different portions of the skin within a region, each instance of the housing passing over a portion heating the portion, wherein between two consecutive instances of passing, the temperature of the portion decreases, and the at least one parameter includes the temperature decrease, and the one or more characteristics are capable of including at least one of: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment, and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin.

73. The method of claim 72, wherein the treatment feedback includes one or more instructions that instruct the user to adjust at least one of the following: the area of ​​movement of the housing on the skin and the speed of movement of the housing on the skin during the ongoing treatment.

74. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 73, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the skin treatment device.

75. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 73, wherein the skin treatment system further comprises a user device, wherein at least one of the analysis and feedback module and the user interface constitutes part of the user device.

76. The method of claim 75, wherein the skin treatment device is configured to communicate with the user equipment via a wireless communication link.

77. The method of claim 76, wherein the user equipment is a smartphone, and / or the wireless communication link includes Bluetooth.

78. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 77, wherein the user interface includes a display, and the therapeutic feedback includes visual feedback.

79. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 78, wherein the user interface includes a speaker, and the therapeutic feedback includes audio feedback.

80. The method according to any one of claims 41 to 79, wherein the skin treatment device is a handheld device.

81. A treatment system comprising: A skin treatment system comprising at least one skin treatment device, the at least one skin treatment device being operable by a user to perform one or more treatment procedures on the user's skin, the at least one skin treatment device comprising: A housing comprising at least two electrodes configured to make conductive contact with the skin as the housing moves across the user's skin during at least one treatment session; and A radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator, the radio frequency electromagnetic signal generator being configured to supply radio frequency electromagnetic signals to the at least two electrodes for applying radio frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin during the at least one treatment session; The skin treatment system is configured to calculate at least one treatment performance metric indicating one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment session, and to send the at least one treatment performance metric to a physician system; and The physician system is located remotely from the skin treatment system and is configured to receive the at least one treatment performance metric.

82. The treatment system of claim 81, wherein the at least one treatment course performance metric includes a treatment course effectiveness score, the treatment course effectiveness score being calculated based on cumulative data collected during the at least one treatment course.

83. The treatment system according to claim 81 or 82, wherein the one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment session include at least one of the following: The number of times the skin treatment device loses contact with the skin during the at least one treatment session. The number of times the skin temperature deviates from a predetermined value during at least one treatment session. The number of times the at least one treatment session was paused during the at least one treatment session, and The duration of the at least one treatment course.

84. The treatment system according to claim 83 when dependent on claim 82, wherein the treatment effectiveness score is calculated based on the one or more characteristics of the at least one treatment course.

85. The treatment system according to any one of claims 81 to 84, wherein the skin treatment system is configured to determine at least one treatment performance metric calculated based on a plurality of treatment performance metrics.

86. The treatment system of claim 85, wherein the at least one treatment performance metric includes a treatment effectiveness score.

87. The treatment system according to claim 86 when dependent on claim 82, wherein the treatment effectiveness score is the average of the plurality of treatment effectiveness scores corresponding to the plurality of treatment performance metrics.

88. The treatment system according to any one of claims 81 to 87, wherein the physician system includes a physician user interface for displaying performance metrics or indications of the at least one treatment course.

89. The treatment system according to any one of claims 81 to 88, wherein the physician system is configured to transmit a treatment plan to the skin treatment system.

Images