Plasma treatment arrangement
Patent Information
- Application Number
- EP2024706718
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-02-27
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-20
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-07
AI Technical Summary
Existing plasma treatment arrangements for body surfaces lack flexible and adaptive control mechanisms for optimizing plasma treatment parameters, such as temperature, oxygen saturation, and pH, which are crucial for effective wound healing and surface disinfection.
A plasma treatment arrangement featuring a movable sensor integrated within the dielectric through-openings, connected to an alternating high-voltage generator and control device, allowing for real-time parameter monitoring and automatic adjustment of the plasma treatment based on measured values.
Enables precise and adaptive plasma treatment by allowing the use of the best-suited sensor arrangement for each therapeutic task, improving wound healing and surface disinfection efficacy while ensuring safety by monitoring parameters like pH and oxygen saturation.
Smart Images

Figure EP2024054275_06092024_PF_FP
Abstract
Description
[0001] Plasma treatment arrangement
[0002] The invention relates to a plasma treatment arrangement for the dielectrically impeded plasma treatment of a body surface of a body, comprising (a) an electrode arrangement which has (i) a contact side facing the body surface, (ii) at least one electrode and (iii) a dielectric which covers the at least one electrode, in particular completely, and (b) at least one sensor which is designed to detect at least one parameter of the body surface, wherein (c) the dielectric has at least two dielectric through-openings which each form a channel through which wound secretion can be discharged.
[0003] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for producing a plasma treatment arrangement comprising the steps of (a) providing an electrode arrangement which has (i) a contact side facing the body surface, (ii) at least one electrode and (iii) a dielectric which covers the at least one electrode, in particular completely, and (b) providing at least one sensor which is designed to detect at least one parameter of the body surface, wherein (c) the electrode arrangement is produced such that the dielectric has at least two dielectric through-openings which each form a channel through which wound secretion can be discharged.
[0004] It is known to treat the body surface of humans or animals with plasma. This involves generating a dielectrically impeded plasma discharge, usually under atmospheric pressure, by applying an alternating high voltage to an electrode embedded in a dielectric and thus shielded from the surface to be treated. Such a treatment device is known, for example, from DE 103 24 926 B3. It can be provided that the body with the surface to be treated forms the ground electrode. Plasma treatment promotes wound healing and, in particular, also serves to disinfect the body surface.
[0005] A plasma treatment device is known from DE 10 2016 118 569 A1, in which the electrode arrangement for forming a dielectrically impeded plasma discharge has at least two sub-electrodes arranged side by side and insulated from each other by the dielectric. The sub-electrodes are supplied by a control device with alternating high voltages that are mutually compensating and opposite in terms of waveform and voltage level. Here, too, the surface to be treated serves as the ground electrode.
[0006] From DE10 2016 108 450 A1 an electrode arrangement is known in which the dielectric and the electrode are formed from a flexible plastic material, wherein the electrode is provided with electrically conductive additives.
[0007] In order to drain wound secretions, blood, and / or gases from the wound surface or to supply a fluid when such an electrode arrangement rests on a wound surface, it is known from DE 10 2014 013 716 A1 that the dielectric has through-openings that extend from the front side to a back side of the dielectric and are aligned with openings in the electrode embedded therein. The through-openings of the dielectric are smaller than the openings of the electrode, so that the dielectric completely covers the electrode even in the area of the through-openings.
[0008] DE 10 2017 106 570 A1 discloses an electrode arrangement for a dielectric barrier plasma discharge for treating a body region of a living being. At least one sensor is embedded in the dielectric and supplied with an electrical voltage to determine at least one parameter of the body region. This allows the plasma treatment of the body region to be monitored and, if necessary, controlled.
[0009] A plasma treatment arrangement of this type is known from DE 102017 106 482 A1. This arrangement uses a vacuum between the plasma treatment arrangement and the surface to be treated. EP 3 630 279 B1 discloses a plasma treatment arrangement of this type in which the length of the support arrangement can be adapted to the specific application by detaching one or more sections of the support arrangement.
[0010] The present invention is based on the object of providing an improved electrode arrangement with a control of the plasma treatment of the body area.
[0011] The invention solves the problem by a generic plasma treatment arrangement in which the at least one sensor is arranged in the dielectric passage opening, in particular movable relative to the dielectric.
[0012] According to a second aspect, the invention solves the problem by a generic method in which the at least one sensor is connected to the electrode arrangement by inserting the sensor into the dielectric through-opening.
[0013] According to the invention, there is also provided a plasma treatment system comprising (a) a plasma treatment arrangement according to the invention, (b) an alternating high-voltage generator which is electrically connected to the electrode, (c) a voltage source which is connected to the at least one sensor for supplying the sensor with electrical energy, and (d) a control device which is configured to automatically (i) detect measured values of the at least one sensor and (ii) control the alternating high-voltage generator as a function of the detected measured values.
[0014] An advantage of the invention is that the electrode arrangement and the at least one sensor can be manufactured separately. Thus, according to a preferred embodiment, at least one sensor can be connected to the electrode arrangement before the start of treatment. In this way, precisely the sensor arrangement that is best suited for the respective therapeutic task can be used. Within the context of the present description, the feature that the at least one sensor is arranged in the dielectric through-opening is understood, in particular, to mean that the sensor has been inserted into the existing dielectric through-opening. For example, the sensor is arranged in the dielectric through-opening with a positive or frictional fit. A material connection, for example, by adhesive bonding, is also possible.
[0015] The body is understood to be an inanimate or animate body, especially a human or animal body. For example, the body surface may have a wound or a disease that can be treated with plasma treatment. Cosmetic or prophylactic treatment of the body surface is also possible.
[0016] The inanimate body can, for example, be an object with a wooden, plastic, or metal surface. Plasma treatment of such a surface improves, for example, the applicability and / or adhesion of coatings such as paints, varnishes, or adhesives. A method according to the invention relates to such an application.
[0017] The body preferably serves as a ground electrode.
[0018] The electrode arrangement refers to the entirety of the electrode and the dielectric. The electrode arrangement could also be called an electrode unit. The electrode arrangement is preferably designed to form gas spaces between the dielectric and the body surface, in which a plasma forms when the electrode is subjected to a suitable alternating high voltage.
[0019] The at least one sensor is preferably designed to detect two, three, four, or more parameters of the body surface. The parameters are intrinsic properties of the body surface, for example, temperature, oxygen content, oxygen saturation, pH value, or the absorption coefficient at a given wavelength.
[0020] The sensors are preferably electrically insulated from the electrode. The sensor arrangement is preferably designed to be detachably connected to the electrode arrangement. In particular, the sensor is detachably connected to the dielectric, preferably in a form-fitting manner. This makes it possible to separate the sensor from the electrode arrangement and, for example, to connect at least one other sensor arrangement to the electrode arrangement. If the electrode arrangement and the sensor are detachably connected to one another, they can also be detachably connected to one another.
[0021] The invention also relates to a kit comprising (a) an electrode arrangement having (i) a contact side facing the body surface, (ii) at least one electrode, and (iii) a dielectric that completely covers the at least one electrode, at least toward the contact side, and (b) at least one sensor configured to detect at least one parameter of the body surface, wherein the electrode arrangement and the sensor are (i) separate objects and (ii) configured to be connected to one another. Preferably, the electrode arrangement and the at least one sensor are configured for positive and / or frictional connection to one another. Alternatively or additionally, the kit comprises adhesive for connecting the electrode arrangement and the sensor. The adhesive may already be applied to the sensor arrangement and / or the electrode arrangement. In this case, the adhesive may be covered by a removable film.Peel back the film to reveal an adhesive surface, which establishes the connection between the electrode array and the sensor. The electrode array and the sensor preferably have properties described in this specification for other embodiments of the invention. The kit preferably comprises a plurality of sensors designed to measure different parameters of the body surface.
[0022] Preferably, the body surface of the body acts as a counter electrode to the electrode.
[0023] In one embodiment, the at least one sensor is arranged in the dielectric through-opening with a positive or frictional fit. For example, the at least one sensor forms a snug fit with the dielectric through-opening. Thus, the sensor is sufficiently firmly yet detachably connected to the electrode arrangement.
[0024] Preferably, the at least one sensor has at least one electrical connecting lead. In one embodiment, the electrode arrangement has at least one recess, in particular a groove or a slot, which is designed to receive the connecting lead. In particular, a cross-section of the recess is selected such that the connecting lead can be completely received in the recess. In one embodiment, the electrode arrangement has holding elements for holding the connecting lead in the recess. Such holding elements can be projections or noses, for example. It is then possible to insert the connecting lead reversibly, in particular with a form-fitting fit, into the recess. In this way, the sensor can be connected to the electrode arrangement particularly easily.
[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrode arrangement has at least one connecting line, preferably two mutually insulated connecting lines, for the at least one sensor. The at least one connecting line is preferably arranged such that contact is made with the sensor when it is arranged in the dielectric through-opening. For this purpose, the at least one sensor preferably has two externally contactable contact surfaces, each of which forms an electrical contact with a connecting line when the sensor is arranged in the dielectric through-opening.
[0026] The connecting lead can be formed by or comprise a metal wire or a metallization. Metallization refers to a metal area that, without the substrate to which the metal is applied, would be too mechanically unstable to be suitable for contacting.
[0027] Alternatively or additionally, the connecting line can be formed by an electrically conductive region in or on the dielectric. For example, the electrically conductive region is formed by electrically conductive plastic, in particular an electrically conductive elastomer, for example an electrically conductive silicone. This provides particularly good protection for the connected line against destruction by external influences. The at least one electrode preferably has an electrode through-opening. The dielectric preferably completely covers the at least one electrode, even in the region of the at least one electrode through-opening. In one embodiment, the at least one sensor is arranged in the at least one electrode through-opening. The electrode can be flat. In this case, a large area can be treated homogeneously with plasma.The electrode through-holes allow the sensor to pass through the surface along which the electrode extends.
[0028] Preferably, the dielectric has a plurality of dielectric through-openings, at least several of which do not contain a sensor.
[0029] In one embodiment, at least a majority, preferably at least three quarters, particularly preferably at least four fifths, most particularly preferably all, of the dielectric through-openings have the same inner contour.
[0030] Preferably, the number of channels is at least three times, in particular five times, for example eight to ten times the number of sensors. This provides a sufficient number of channels for draining wound secretions and / or supplying paste or fluid. The number of channels is preferably at most 300 times the number of sensors.
[0031] The dielectric can have dielectric projections, in particular webs, that have a contact surface for contact with the body surface. Preferably, at least one of the sensors extends through the dielectric projections. In this case, the sensors can come into direct contact with the body surface.
[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, the webs are designed in a grid-like manner. This means, in particular, that the contact surface has a surface area that amounts to at most one-third, preferably one-quarter, particularly preferably at most one-fifth, of the total area comprising the contact surface and the regions of the body surface surrounded by the webs. Gas spaces are preferably formed between the dielectric projections, in which a plasma forms when a sufficiently high alternating high voltage is applied to the at least one electrode. Preferably, at least one dielectric through-opening opens into the gas space. In one embodiment, a sensor is arranged in this at least one dielectric through-opening opening into the gas space.
[0033] Preferably, at least one sensor has a sensor projection that engages with a through-opening recess in the dielectric through-opening in which the sensor is arranged. This creates a positive connection. Alternatively or additionally, the sensor has a sensor recess into which a through-opening projection of the dielectric through-opening in which the sensor is arranged engages.
[0034] Preferably, at least one sensor has an oversize relative to the corresponding dielectric through-hole in which it is arranged. This results in a snug fit and a frictional connection.
[0035] Preferably, at least one of the sensors is designed to measure oxygen saturation of the body surface as the parameter to be recorded. For example, this sensor is a near-infrared absorption sensor.
[0036] Alternatively or additionally, one of the sensors is preferably designed to measure a local temperature of the body surface as the parameter to be recorded. For example, this is a thermometer that is in contact with the body surface when the plasma treatment device is applied to the skin. In this way, the skin temperature can be determined at a location not affected by the plasma. An increase in the skin temperature may indicate inflammation.
[0037] Preferably, at least one sensor of the sensor array is configured to measure a color value of the body surface as the parameter to be recorded. If the color value changes such that the red component increases, this may indicate increased blood flow and thus inflammation. The preferably downstream control device can then be configured to automatically initiate a plasma treatment.
[0038] Preferably, at least one sensor is configured to measure the pH value of the body surface as the parameter to be detected. If the pH value rises above a predetermined target pH value, which is, for example, greater than 5.6, in particular greater than 5.8, for example greater than 6.0, the risk of infection may increase. The control device can be configured to automatically start a plasma treatment.
[0039] Preferably, the at least one electrode and the at least one dielectric are flexible. In one embodiment, the electrode is embedded in the dielectric.
[0040] The plasma treatment arrangement is preferably connected to an alternating high-voltage generator, which is electrically connected to the electrode, and to a voltage source, which is connected to the at least one sensor for supplying the sensor with electrical energy. The entirety of the plasma treatment arrangement, alternating high-voltage generator, and voltage source can be referred to as a plasma treatment system. The plasma treatment system preferably comprises a control device configured to automatically (i) acquire measured values from the at least one sensor and (ii) control the alternating high-voltage generator depending on the acquired measured values.
[0041] Preferably, the AC high-voltage generator, the voltage source, and the control device are part of an operating unit, which preferably has a housing. The housing preferably surrounds the AC high-voltage generator, the voltage source, and the control device.
[0042] In one embodiment, the plasma treatment system comprises a contacting unit by means of which an electrical contact can be established between the control device and the connecting lines of the sensors when the plasma treatment arrangement is mechanically connected to the operating unit. The contacting unit is preferably designed to contact the electrode, in particular by contacting the at least one electrode contact. In one embodiment, the connecting lines and / or the electrode contact are exposed in the region in which they are contacted by the contacting unit. This is understood in particular to mean that they can be contacted by moving a contact pin in the normal direction to the front side.
[0043] Alternatively or additionally, the connecting leads can be exposed in recesses in the base body and / or the electrode contacts can be exposed in recesses in the dielectric. In this way, the plasma treatment arrangement contains a female plug contact, which is contacted by a male plug contact formed on the operating unit.
[0044] For example, the control device is configured to automatically start a plasma treatment if the measured value of at least one sensor lies outside a predetermined target measured value interval. In particular, the control device is configured to terminate the plasma treatment after a predetermined treatment time. A treatment program can be stored in the control device, according to which the electrode is subjected to alternating high voltage. In particular, the treatment program contains the amplitude of the alternating high voltage and its duration.
[0045] Preferably, the control unit is designed to, in particular regularly, (i) record measured values while the electrode is not subjected to alternating high voltage, and (ii) if the measured values lie outside the target measured value interval, control the alternating high voltage generator so that the electrode is subjected to alternating high voltage.
[0046] The magnitude of the alternating high voltage is preferably between 1 kV and 100 kV. The frequency of the alternating voltage is preferably between 100 Hz and 100 MHz. The pulse frequency, i.e., the frequency at which the individual pulses are emitted after switching, is preferably greater than 90 Hz and no more than 1 kHz.
[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrode comprises at least two partial electrodes that are insulated from one another. Preferably, the control device is designed to apply a first alternating high voltage to the first partial electrode and a second alternating high voltage to the second partial electrode, wherein the first alternating high voltage and the second alternating high voltage compensate each other. In particular, the first alternating high voltage corresponds to the negative of the first alternating high voltage.
[0048] The plasma treatment arrangement preferably has a fastening for attaching the electrode arrangement and the sensor arrangement to a body surface and / or to the body. The fastening can be designed for a material-to-material connection. For example, the fastening can comprise an adhesive. Alternatively or additionally, the fastening can be designed for a form-fitting connection. For example, the fastening comprises a fastening element, such as a strap and / or a hook-and-loop fastener.
[0049] The plasma treatment arrangement preferably has a planar sensor arrangement which comprises (i) a planar base body and (ii) the at least one sensor which is firmly connected to the base body and (iii) is separate from the electrode arrangement. The feature that the sensor arrangement is separate from the electrode arrangement is understood in particular to mean that these were manufactured separately and connected to one another to form a jointly manageable unit, such that a joint exists between the two. The joint can be formed, for example, by an adhesive. Alternatively, the electrode arrangement and the sensor arrangement are non-destructively, in particular reversibly, separably connected to one another. It is then possible to separate the electrode arrangement and the sensor arrangement from one another after use in order to dispose of them separately. Furthermore, different sensor arrangements can be used for the same electrode arrangement.This sensor arrangement is preferably detachably connectable to the electrode arrangement, in particular to the dielectric. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0050] Figure 1 is a top view of a first embodiment of a plasma treatment arrangement according to the invention,
[0051] Figure 2 in part 2a a side view of the plasma treatment arrangement according to Figure 1 and in part 2b the section A from Figure 2b and in part 2c an alternative fastening of the sensor in the dielectric,
[0052] Figure 3 is a top view of a second embodiment of a plasma treatment arrangement according to the invention,
[0053] Figure 4 in part 4a a side view of a third embodiment of a plasma treatment arrangement according to the invention, in which the sensors are not yet arranged in the dielectric through-openings, as well as a kit according to the invention, and in part 4b the plasma treatment arrangement according to part 4b with sensors arranged in the dielectric through-openings and
[0054] Figure 5 shows a fourth embodiment of a plasma treatment arrangement according to the invention.
[0055] Figure 1 shows a plasma treatment arrangement 10 according to the invention for dielectrically impeded plasma treatment of a body surface 12 of a body. The plasma treatment arrangement has an electrode arrangement 14 comprising at least one electrode 16 and a dielectric 18, as well as at least one sensor 38. i (i = 1, 2, ... In Figure 1, i = 8).
[0056] The at least one electrode 16 is connected to an AC high-voltage generator 20, which is connected to a voltage source 22 for supplying electrical energy. The AC high-voltage generator 20 is also connected to a control device 24, by means of which the AC high-voltage generator 20 is controlled such that a predetermined AC high voltage UHV is applied to the at least one electrode 16. The plasma treatment arrangement 10, the AC high-voltage generator 20, the voltage source 22, and the control device 24 are components of a plasma treatment system 26 according to the invention.
[0057] The AC high-voltage generator 20, the voltage source 22, and the control device 24 are arranged in an operating unit 28 and, together with the electrode assembly 14, are components of a plasma treatment system 26 according to the invention. The operating unit 28 can be designed as a handheld device, but this is not necessary. Alternatively, the AC high-voltage generator 20 is located in a stationary device to which the electrode assembly 14 is connected.
[0058] The control device 24 is connected to the sensors 38.i for detecting the parameter Pi measured by the sensor 38.i. The control device 24 compares the parameter Pi with a respective parameter setpoint interval = [Pi.min, Pi, max] stored in the control device 24. If at least one parameter Pi or at least 2, 3 or more parameters Pi lie outside the respective parameter setpoint interval h, the control device 24 controls the alternating high-voltage generator 14 such that an alternating high voltage is applied to the electrode 16. The alternating high voltage is applied to the electrode 16 in pulses. It is preferred, but not necessary, that the parameters Pi be detected at regular intervals between two pulses. If the parameters are again within the respective parameter setpoint interval h, the application of the alternating high voltage to the electrode is discontinued.It is also possible that another parameter setpoint interval exists that only applies when the plasma treatment has started. For example, this parameter setpoint interval contains the difference to the corresponding parameter measured before the start of the plasma treatment. If the corresponding parameter Pi lies outside the second parameter setpoint interval, the plasma treatment is terminated. If, for example, the redness of the skin decreases by more than a specified amount or the redness exceeds a threshold, the plasma conversion is terminated.
[0059] The plasma treatment assembly 10 has a tongue 30, which could also be referred to as a projection, which can be inserted into the operating unit 28. By inserting the tongue, the electrode 16 is electrically connected to the alternating high-voltage generator 20. Furthermore, the sensors 38 i are electrically connected to the control device 24.
[0060] The electrode 16 can comprise a first partial electrode 32a and a second partial electrode 32b, but this is not necessary. If two partial electrodes 32a, 32b are present, they are preferably electrically insulated from each other. In this case, the first partial electrode 32a can be contacted by means of a first electrode contact 34a, and the second partial electrode 32b can be contacted by means of a second electrode contact 34b. The electrode contacts 34a, 34b are each connected to the AC high-voltage generator 20.
[0061] It is advantageous, but not necessary, if the alternating high-voltage generator 20 is designed to apply alternating high-voltage pulses to the electrode 16. In other words, a schematically drawn body surface 12 serves as a counter electrode, possibly floating, to the electrode 16.
[0062] It is possible, but not necessary, for the AC high-voltage generator 20 to be configured to apply AC high-voltage pulses ±UHV of opposite sign to the two electrode contacts 34a, 34b. This particularly means that the sum of the voltages applied to the electrode contacts 34a, 34b and thus to the partial electrodes 32a, 32b is always approximately zero.
[0063] The sensors 38.i are connected to respective connecting lines 36.i. As shown in Figure 1, the connecting lines 36.i are electrically connected to the control device 24 when the plasma treatment arrangement 10 is connected to the operating unit 28.
[0064] Figure 2a shows a side view of the plasma treatment system 26. The electrode assembly 14 rests against the body surface 12 with a contact side V14, which could also be referred to as the front side. At least one of the sensors 38.1 can be a temperature sensor for measuring the parameter P in the form of a body surface temperature T of the body surface 12. For this purpose, the sensor 38.1 is, for example, a thermal resistor.
[0065] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the sensors 38.i is a pH sensor for measuring the parameter P in the form of a pH value a of the body surface 12. For this purpose, this sensor 38.i is in contact with the body surface 12.
[0066] Again alternatively or additionally, at least one of the sensors 38.i is an oxygen saturation sensor for measuring the parameter P in the form of an oxygen saturation sO2 of the blood in the body surface 12. Such a sensor can, for example, have a light-emitting diode for emitting light and a photodiode for measuring light reflected from the body surface 12.
[0067] Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the sensors 38.i can be a skin redness sensor, by means of which the parameter P can be detected in the form of a change in the redness R of the skin. For this purpose, the sensor 38.i is, for example, a photo chip. The redness R of the skin is, for example, the ratio between the measured light intensity in a frequency interval for red light and a frequency interval for light of a different color, for example, blue light.
[0068] Figure 2b shows section A according to Figure 2a. It can be seen that sensor 38.1 is arranged in a dielectric through-opening 40.1. The remaining sensors 38.i are arranged in corresponding dielectric through-openings 40.i. The sensor 38.1 can have a sensor projection 42.1, with which it elastically engages in a through-opening recess 44.1. As a result, the sensor 38.1 is positively connected to the dielectric 18.
[0069] In the case shown in Figure 2b, the sensor 38.1 is arranged with clearance in the dielectric through-opening 40.1. However, it is also possible for the sensor 38.1 to form a snug fit with the dielectric through-opening 40.1.
[0070] The sensor 38.1 has a contact surface 48.1, with which it is electrically connected to a first conductor 46.1 of the connecting line 36.1, and a second contact surface 48.2, with which it is electrically connected to a second conductor 46.2 of the connecting line 36.1. In this way, the at least one sensor 38.1 is supplied with voltage. Furthermore, the measured values can be read out via the conductors 46.1, 46.2.
[0071] The conductors 46.1, 46.2 can be formed by metallic conductors or by electrically conductive polymers, for example, by polymers containing graphite and / or metal powder. For example, the polymer is the same polymer from which the dielectric 18 is constructed, but this is not necessary.
[0072] Figure 2b shows that the electrode 16 has electrode through-openings 50.i. The dielectric 18 also covers the electrode 16 in the region of the electrode through-openings 50.i. The electrode through-opening 50.i has a clear width D50.1. The dielectric through-opening 40.i runs within the electrode through-opening 50.i.
[0073] The dielectric 18 has projections 52.j (j = 1, 2, ...), the surfaces of which facing the contact side V14 form a contact surface F, with which the electrode arrangement rests against the body surface 12 during operation of the plasma treatment arrangement 10. Gas spaces 54.j are formed between the projections 52.j, in which a plasma forms when a sufficiently high alternating voltage is applied to the electrode.
[0074] The gas spaces 54.j have a clear width L54, which can be the same for all gas spaces 52.j, but need not be. The projections 52.j are preferably web-like or stud-like. They have a width of B52 = 0.5 to 3 mm, for example.
[0075] Figure 2c shows an alternative fastening of the sensor 38.1 in the dielectric 18. For this purpose, the sensor 38.1 has a sensor recess 43.1 into which a through-opening projection 45.1 engages.
[0076] Figure 3 shows a top view of a second embodiment of a plasma treatment arrangement 10 according to the invention. The detailed image on the right shows an enlargement of the area A in cross-section with respect to the section line B - B. It can be seen that the two conductors 46.1, 46.2 of the connecting line
[0077] 36.1 are arranged in a recess 56.1.
[0078] The connecting cable 36.1 is completely accommodated in the recess 56.1. A retaining element 58.1 in the form of a projection reversibly holds the connecting cable 36.1 in the recess 56.1. The retaining element can also be referred to as a retaining structure.
[0079] The sensor 38.1, which is initially separated from the electrode arrangement 14, is inserted into the dielectric through-opening 40.1 to prepare the plasma treatment arrangement 10. The connecting cable 36.1 is then inserted into the recess
[0080] 56.1 pressed in.
[0081] Figure 4a shows a kit 60 according to the invention, which comprises the electrode arrangement 14 and the sensors 38.i. The sensors 38.i are designed such that they can be connected to the dielectric through-openings 40.j, in particular in a form-fitting manner, by being inserted into the dielectric through-openings 40.j. Preferably, the AC high-voltage generator 20 and / or the voltage source 22 and / or the control device 24 are part of the kit 60. In particular, the operating unit 28 is part of the kit 60.
[0082] Figure 4b shows a cross section through the electrode arrangement 14, so that the sensors 38.i inserted into the respective dielectric through-opening 40.1 are visible.
[0083] The electrode arrangement 14 is manufactured, for example, by casting a castable elastomer, for example silicone, into a corresponding mold.
[0084] Figure 5 shows a further embodiment of a plasma treatment arrangement 10 according to the invention, in which the sensor 38.1 is connected to a base body 62 and forms a sensor arrangement 64 with it. The base body 62 is designed separately from the electrode arrangement 14. It is possible for the sensor arrangement 64 to be separably connected, in particular by form-fitting and / or frictional engagement, to the electrode arrangement 14. Alternatively, it is possible for the base body 62 to be firmly connected to the electrode arrangement 14. In the context of the present description, the feature that the sensor arrangement is separate from the electrode arrangement is understood in particular to mean that they were manufactured separately and connected to one another, thus creating a uniformly handleable object. In particular, there is a joint between the two. The joint can be flat, strip-shaped, or point-shaped, or have another shape.The joint can be formed, for example, by an adhesive. Alternatively, the electrode arrangement and the sensor arrangement are non-destructively, in particular reversibly, separably connected to one another. It is then possible to separate the electrode arrangement and the sensor arrangement after use in order to dispose of them separately if necessary. Furthermore, different sensor arrangements can be used for the same electrode arrangement. For example, the arrangement facing the body surface, i.e., the sensor arrangement or the electrode arrangement, can be disposed of, but the other sensor arrangement can be reused. In particular, the electrode arrangement can be disposed of and the sensor arrangement reused. Alternatively, the sensor arrangement can be disposed of and the electrode arrangement reused.
[0085] List of reference symbols
[0086] 10 Plasma treatment assembly 45 Through-opening projection
[0087] 12 body surface 46 conductors
[0088] 14 Electrode arrangement 48 Contact surface
[0089] 16 Electrode
[0090] 18 Dielectric 50 Electrode through-hole
[0091] 52 lead
[0092] 20 AC high-voltage generator54 Gas chamber 56 Recess
[0093] 22 Voltage source 58 Holding element
[0094] 24 Control device
[0095] 26 Plasma Treatment System 60 Kit
[0096] 28 operating units
[0097] B52 Width of the projection
[0098] 30 tongue, attachment D50 clear width of the electrodes
[0099] 32 Partial electrode through opening
[0100] 34 Electrode contact F contact surface
[0101] 36 Connecting cable i Running index of the sensors
[0102] 38 Sensor L54 clear width of the gas space
[0103] R14 back
[0104] 40 Dielectric via Pi Parameter
[0105] 42 Sensor projection V14 system side
[0106] 43 Sensor return
[0107] 44 Through opening recess
Claims
Patent claims 1. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) for the dielectrically impeded plasma treatment of a body surface (12) of a body, with (a) an electrode arrangement (14) comprising (i) a contact side (Vu) facing the body surface (12), (ii) at least one electrode (16) and (iii) a dielectric (18) covering the at least one electrode (16), and (b) at least one sensor (38) designed to detect at least one parameter (Pi) of the body surface, (c) wherein the dielectric (18) has at least two dielectric through-openings (40), each forming a channel through which wound secretion can be discharged, characterized in that (d) the at least one sensor (38) is arranged in the dielectric through-opening (40).
2. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that (a) the at least one sensor (38) is arranged in the dielectric through-opening (40) without being connected to the material and / or (b) forms a snug fit with the dielectric through-hole (40).
3. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrode arrangement (14) has at least one connecting line (36) for the at least one sensor (38), which is arranged such that the sensor (38) is contacted when it is arranged in the dielectric through-opening (40).
4. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that (a) the at least one electrode (16) has an electrode through-opening (50), (b) the dielectric (18) also completely covers the at least one electrode (16) in the region of the at least one electrode through-opening (50) and (c) the at least one sensor (38) is arranged in the electrode passage opening (50).
5. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a number of channels is at least three times, in particular at least five times, a number of sensors (38).
6. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that (a) the dielectric (18) has dielectric projections which form at least one gas space (54) when the plasma treatment arrangement rests with the support side on the surface to be treated, (b) at least one dielectric through-opening (40) opens into the gas space (54) and (c) a sensor is arranged in said at least one dielectric through-opening (40).
7. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that (a) at least one sensor (38) has a sensor projection (42) which elastically engages in a through-opening recess (44) in the dielectric through-opening (40) in which the sensor (38) is arranged and / or (b) at least one sensor (38) has a sensor recess into which a through-opening projection of the dielectric through-opening (40) elastically engages.
8. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one sensor (38), in particular with regard to its cross section, has an oversize with respect to corresponding dielectric through-openings (40).
9. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plasma treatment arrangement with (a) an alternating high-voltage generator (20) electrically connected to the electrode (16) and (b) a voltage source (22) connected to the at least one sensor (38) for supplying the sensor (38) with electrical energy, and (c) a control device (24) which is arranged to automatically (i) detecting measured values of the at least one sensor (38) and (ii) controlling the alternating high-voltage generator (20) as a function of the measured values.
10. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a sensor arrangement (64) which (a) a flat basic body and (b) the at least one sensor (38) which is fixedly connected to the base body and is separate from the electrode arrangement.
11. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the sensor arrangement (64) is designed to be detachably connectable to the electrode arrangement (14).
12. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that (a) the at least one sensor (38.1) is contacted by means of an electrical connecting line (36.1) and (b) the electrode arrangement (14) has at least one recess (56.1) which is designed to receive the connecting line (36.1).
13. Plasma treatment arrangement (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a fastening for fastening the electrode arrangement and the sensor arrangement to a body surface and / or to the body.
14. Kit, the (a) an electrode arrangement comprising (i) a contact side facing the body surface, (ii) at least one electrode and (iii) a dielectric which completely covers the at least one electrode at least towards the contact side, and (b) at least one sensor designed to detect at least one parameter of the body surface, (c) wherein the electrode arrangement and the sensor (i) are separate objects and (ii) are designed to be connected to one another.
15. A method for producing a plasma treatment arrangement (10), comprising the steps (a) providing an electrode arrangement (14) which (i) a contact side (Vu) facing the body surface (12), (ii) at least one electrode (16) and (iii) a dielectric (18) which covers the at least one electrode (16), in particular completely, and (b) providing at least one sensor (38) designed to detect at least one parameter (Pi) of the body surface, (c) wherein the electrode arrangement (14) is manufactured such that the dielectric (18) has at least two dielectric through-openings (40), each forming a channel through which wound secretion can be discharged, characterized by the step (e) connecting the at least one sensor (38) to the electrode arrangement (14) by inserting the sensor (38) into the dielectric through-opening (40).