Infrared device for the treatment of dry eye

Abstract

An assembly for an infrared (IR) radiation device for relieving symptoms of dry eye syndrome, the assembly including: a device including: an IR radiation emitter, and a heat plate for trapping a portion of IR radiation emitted by the IR radiation emitter to heat the heat plate and for allowing a portion of the IR radiation to pass there-through so as to irradiate tear glands; and a holder for the IR radiation emitter and heat plate, the holder configured to position the heat plate against a closed eyelid of a user so that the IR radiation device simultaneously warms the closed eyelid and stimulates nerves to produce tears.

Description

[0001] Infrared Device for the Treatment of Dry Eye

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a device that heats eyelids for alleviating symptoms of dry eye syndrome and more particularly to a device that simultaneously applies heat and stimulates tearing using infrared light.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] There are many different devices on the market that warm eyelids. Some of these devices are very expensive, others are not convenient or comfortable to use, and most of them do not produce the desired effect. This invention provides patients with an inexpensive and easy-to-use device for home use.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] There is presently provided a device that is used to heat eyelids and stimulate tear production using infrared light / radiation. By using infrared (IR) light, the patient is provided with a convenient and inexpensive device that achieves good results leading to increased secretion of both lipid and aqueous tears.

[0008] According to the present invention there is provided an assembly for an infrared (IR) radiation device for relieving symptoms of dry eye syndrome, the assembly including: a device including: an IR radiation emitter, and a heat plate for trapping a portion of IR radiation emitted by the IR radiation emitter to heat the heat plate and for allowing a portion of the IR radiation to pass there-through so as to irradiate tear glands; and a holder for the IR radiation emitter and heat plate, the holder configured to position the heat plate against a closed eyelid of a user so that the IR radiation device simultaneously warms the closed eyelid and stimulates nerves to produce tears.

[0009] According to further features in embodiments of the invention described below the IR radiation source / emitter includes at least one IR light emitting diode (LED).

[0010] According to further features in preferred embodiments of the invention the power source is an external power source, and the IR radiation emitter is powered by a battery or is coupled to external power source via a power cord. According to further features the IR radiation source is embodied on, or embedded in, a printed circuit board (PCB) or on a ceramic substrate.

[0011] According to further features the device is operationally coupled to a control circuit. According to further features the control circuit and the IR radiation emitter are embodied on a single printed circuit board (PCB) or on a ceramic substrate. According to further features the control circuit and the IR radiation source are embodied on two separate printed circuit boards (PCBs) or ceramic substrates. According to further features the heat panel includes a concavity or convexity on an external face thereof. According to further features the heat panel includes a concavity or convexity disposed above the IR radiation emitter on an inner face of the heat panel. According to further features the concavity or convexity is adapted to allow more IR radiation to pass there-through than a remaining portion of the heat panel.

[0012] According to further features the assembly further includes a light emitting diode (LED) on the PCB or ceramic substrate, the LED configured to emit visible light.

[0013] According to further features the holder includes a clip for attaching the device to eyewear. According to further features the holder is an eyewear apparatus. According to further features the PCB or ceramic substrate is housed in a housing. According to further features the holder is adapted to receive the housing slidably therein. According to further features the holder includes indentations for positioning the housing therein. According to further features the heat plate is angled to press against the closed eyelid.

[0014] According to further features the control circuit is adapted to control at least one of: activation of the IR radiation source, deactivation of the IR radiation source, selection of a preprogrammed therapy session.

[0015] According to another embodiment, there is provided an assembly for treating for relieving symptoms of dry eye syndrome, including: two holders coupled together by a bridge; each of the two holders including a device comprising: an IR radiation emitter, and a heat plate for evenly dissipating heat generated by the IR radiation emitter; wherein each of the two holders is configured to position the respective heat plate against a closed eyelid of a user so that the IR radiation device simultaneously warms the closed eyelid and stimulates nerves to produce tears.

[0016] According to further features the two holders are configured to be clipped onto eyeglasses. According to further features the bridge mechanically and electrically couples the two holders together. According to further features a temperature of the heat plate is a function, at least in part, of a thickness of the heat plate.

[0017] According to another embodiment, there is provided a method including: using the aforementioned assembly for simultaneously heating an eyelid of a subject and stimulating tear production in the subject.

[0018] According to another embodiment there is provided an assembly, including: the IR radiation device and a clip holder having an inner face and an outer face, the inner face including guide rails adapted to receive the IR radiation device; wherein the clip holder is adapted to be attached to eyeglasses / eyewear. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Various embodiments are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0020] FIG. 1 is a holder clip on which can be mounted a PCB with infrared LEDs assembled thereon;

[0021] FIG. 2 is a printed circuit board with infrared LEDs, a visible light LED and an eye open / close sensor;

[0022] FIG. 3 is a printed circuit board with an electronic control circuit;

[0023] FIG. 4 is a profile view of a spring cover that protects the IR LEDs from touching the face of the user while pressing on the eyelids to keep that closed;

[0024] FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C are various views of another example configuration and embodiment of the invention;

[0025] FIG. 6 is an example embodiment of a binocular device 600 according to the present invention;

[0026] FIG. 7 is an IR LED / emitter 740 and a heat panel 732 and recess 734 in front of the IR LED.

[0027] DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] The principles and operation of an eye heating device according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description.

[0029] One of the main goals of the present invention is to provide a device that can be used to relieve at least some, if not all, symptoms of dry eye disease (also simply referred to as ‘dry eye’ or ‘dry eyes’). Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a common condition that occurs when a person’s tears are not able to provide adequate lubrication for their eyes. Tears can be inadequate and unstable for many reasons. For example, dry eyes may occur if the person does not produce enough tears or if the tears produced are of a poor quality. This tear instability leads to interference with vision, inflammation and damage of the surface of the eye.

[0030] There is provided herein a device that employs infrared radiation to provide a user with a high degree of relief from the symptoms of dry eye. Innovatively, the device both warms the eye / eyelid and causes the tear glands of the eye to secrete tears. Infrared is a type of radiant energy invisible to the human eye but can be felt as heat. A device designed to produce and emit this form of energy is termed an infrared emitter.

[0031] Infrared emitters, as the name implies, emit infrared light waves. This form of electromagnetic radiation sits just beyond the red end of the visible light spectrum, hence the name “infrared”, which means ‘below red’. The infrared spectrum spans 850 nm to 10,000 nm. While infrared light is invisible to the naked eye, it can be sensed as heat, as our skin is sensitive to infrared radiation. Preferably, the spectrum utilized according to the present invention is between 850 nm and 10,000 nm. According to more preferably embodiments, the spectrum utilized is between 850 nm 3000 nm. In other preferred embodiments, the spectrum utilized 5000 nm to 10,000 nm. In some embodiments, more than one section of the spectrum may be employed in the same device, at the same or different time.

[0032] There are various types of infrared emitters: Incandescent Infrared Emitters, Halogen Infrared Emitters, Quartz Infrared Emitters, and Ceramic Infrared Emitters. Incandescent, halogen, quartz, and ceramic emitters represent the different types of infrared emitters available in the market, each with unique features and applications.

[0033] An incandescent infrared emitter functions by heating a tungsten filament, which then emits infrared light. They are generally simple to use, inexpensive, and readily available. However, they are not as energy-efficient as other types of infrared emitters and have a shorter lifespan.

[0034] Halogen infrared emitters operate on a similar principle to incandescent emitters but have an important distinction. They contain a small amount of halogen (like iodine or bromine) inside the bulb. When the lamp is turned on, the heat from the tungsten filament causes the halogen to vaporize and combine with tungsten atoms, creating a halogen cycle. This process helps to extend the life of the lamp and increase its efficiency.

[0035] Quartz infrared emitters are known for their ability to heat quickly. They use a quartz tube that contains a heating element. When electricity is applied, the heating element warms up, and the quartz tube allows the infrared radiation to pass through it. These types of emitters are highly efficient and can reach high temperatures in a very short period.

[0036] Ceramic infrared emitters function by passing electricity through a ceramic heating element. As the ceramic element heats up, it begins to emit infrared radiation. Ceramic infrared emitters are known for their long lifespan and excellent thermal efficiency. They also provide a very uniform heat output, making them ideal for applications that require consistent heating over a large area.

[0037] In embodiments, the device employs low-level light therapy (LLLT) with near-infrared light-emitting diodes (LED-LLLT) for the treatment of dry eye. An LLLT emitter or emitters, such as LED-LLLT warm the eyelid and simultaneously stimulate the secretion of tears. IR stimulates the nerves that innervate the tear glands, thus causing tear secretion. The present device is also adapted to provide relief and / or treatment of other eyelid conditions. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) has been utilized in the treatment of various disorders. It induces biomodulation in the cellular metabolism as well as analgesic and antiinflammatory effects. Some in vivo and clinical studies have been made regarding the effect of LLLT on ocular surface or dry eye disease, and have proved the positive effect of LLLT for ophthalmic application.

[0038] One of the great advantages of the instant device is that it can be used by the patient in the privacy of his or her own home. Furthermore, the present invention can be assembled at a low cost and can be used repeatedly over the long lifespan of the device.

[0039] A number of configurations for a single ocular or monocular LLLT emitter (LED-LLLT) for heat and tear stimulation are discussed herein. One simple way of using the device is to simply hold the device against the [closed] eye for the duration of the treatment. A variation on this option is to lie down and balance the device on the eye, using gravity to keep it in place.

[0040] Another configuration includes a holder that clips onto eyeglasses, positioned so that the device is pressed against one or both eyelids. According to a variation of this configuration, there are provided attachments that can be coupled to the arms of the frame, where the attachments include hooking members that are configured to press against the back of the ear. The hooking members, at least, are movable such that the device clipped over the lens is held against the eyelid, preventing the eyelid from opening. Since not all eyeglasses fit snugly on the user’s face, the aforementioned attachments secure the device against the eyelid, regardless of the way the glasses usually lie on the user’s face / head.

[0041] Yet another configuration entails an eyewear frame that includes a slot or mechanical arrangement that holds the device in the desired position. In embodiments of this configuration, the arms of the frame are extensible and / or configurable and / or adaptable and / or malleable such that a single frame can be fitted onto different head sizes and shapes.

[0042] According to another embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed a binocular LLLT emitting system. The binocular system may clip onto a pair of eyeglasses or may be attached to an eyewear frame or even integrated in / with an eye wear frame, both designed for the system. The variations and modifications detailed herein with regards to the monocular (single ocular) embodiments and configurations apply similarly, mutatis mutandis to the binocular embodiments.

[0043] Figure 1 illustrates an example holder clip 10 on which can be mounted a PCB with infrared LEDs (e.g., LED-LLLT) assembled thereon. The terms infrared LED, infrared emitters, LED-low- level light therapy (LLLT) are used interchangeably herein, wherein the LED-LLLT is an optional example embodiment of an IR emitter. The example holder clip 10 has outer face 12 and an inner face 14. In the example configuration of the holder clip, the inner face 14 includes two guide rails 16, spaced apart and shaped so as to receive therebetween a radiation device according to the present invention. The radiation device may be, for example, a PCB mounted with, at least an infrared (IR) light source, such as an IR light emitting diode (LED) or a plurality thereof. One example embodiment of such a configuration is shown in Figure 2 and described below.

[0044] Holder clip 10 depicted in Fig. 1 is adapted to have the radiation device attached thereon (e.g., slid between guide rails 16) and to be placed over eyeglasses. Clip 10 is generally an inverted U shape with a space 18 between the sides of the clip where the clip is adapted to be placed over one lens of the user’s eyeglasses or other eye wear. Covering one eye while leaving the second eye unobstructed allows the user to continue to function, even during a therapy session. For example, the user can continue to work on the computer or read a book, using the second eye. The duration of a session is usually five minutes. In some cases, the therapy session can last between five and ten minutes.

[0045] When placed on the eye wear, the inner face 14 of the clip is facing the eyes while the outer face 12 is pointed away from the face of the user. The clip may be formed of any suitable elasticplastic material that is elastically deformable, on the one hand, such that it returns to original state even after being deformed, but rigid (plastic) on the other hand, such that deforming the clip beyond a certain level is not recoverable and the deformation becomes permanent.

[0046] The method of using the present device includes the following steps:

[0047] Step 1, assemble the device on the clip in the desired manner. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the fitting of the device on the clip. In some embodiments, the clip is integrated into the device, and only requires adjustment prior to use. In some embodiments, the clip is integrated into / with the device and has only one position, such that even adjustment is not necessary.

[0048] Step 2 includes mounting the device and clip on the eyewear. As mentioned elsewhere herein, in example embodiments, the device is adapted to be mounted over one lens of the eyewear, to cover and treat one eye. In other embodiments, the assembly includes two devices with two clips. The devices / clips are coupled together by a bridge component. In such an embodiment, the user mounts the assembly on the eyewear for use on both eyes simultaneously.

[0049] Step 3 includes selecting a setting where more than one setting is available.

[0050] Step 4 includes activating the device or devices for the duration of the therapy session. In embodiments, the device includes a light / indicator that provides a illumination that permeates the eyelid (without damaging the eye, of course), informing the user that the device is active. The warmth of the device is another indication that the device is active.

[0051] Step 5, once the session cycle has concluded, the device is removed from the eyewear. The indicator light (in the embodiments that include such an indicator) turns off and the device cools down. In addition, or alternatively, an audio component can sound to indicate that the device has turned off.

[0052] Figure 2 illustrates an example printed circuit board (PCB) 100 with, inter alia, infrared LEDs 110, a visible light LED 120 and an eye open / closed sensor 130. Embodiments also include a temperature sensor 140 and / or a wetness sensor 150. In example embodiments, the PCB 100 is adapted to be assembled to a holder clip such as holder clip 10. In other embodiments, the PCB is embodied on, or embedded in, a dedicated eyewear apparatus. The PCB substrate can be aluminum, glass-reinforced epoxy laminate material such FR-4, ceramic and / or other materials as are known in the art.

[0053] PCB 100, in its most elementary embodiment, includes an IR radiation source and a power source for the same. In embodiments, the IR radiation source is an IR light emitting diode (LED), such as IR LED 110. In some embodiments, more than one IR LED is used. As such, the depicted embodiment in Fig. 2 is merely an example embodiment that includes a plurality (three) of IR LEDs.

[0054] In embodiments, the power is supplied via a power cord 170 coupled to an external power source 20. In embodiments, the power cord is a standard power cord coupled to a plug or hardwired to connectors. In embodiments, the power cord is a USB power cord. A USB power cord may be connected (directly, or via an adaptor) to any one of a variety of power sources, such as, but not limited to, an electrical outlet, a 5V charger port in a vehicle, or some other power source, such as socket, tablet or laptop, or to a cellphone power bank, etc. In embodiments, the diode current is defined by either a resistor or a current regulator. In embodiments, the current regulator is either linear or switching.

[0055] In embodiments, the power source may be a rechargeable, or replaceable, battery 180. This optional component is depicted in dashed lines. A replaceable battery may be located in an easy- to-access location to allow for easy replacement of batteries. A rechargeable battery may be powered or recharged by a power cord, such as power connector 160. Whatever the power source, when the power is supplied to the diode(s) the diode(s) emit(s) the IR radiation that heats the eyelids.

[0056] Safeguarding the eyes from exposure to IR radiation is a primary concern. Various methods can be employed, alone or in combination, to ensure that the eyelids are closed when the IR radiation is being emitted. A number of methods of safeguarding the user are discussed hereafter.

[0057] In some embodiments, the PCB 100 further includes a visible light LED 120. The purpose of the visible light LED is to indicate that the IR LED is about to activate, and the user must close his or her eyes. The LED further functions to actually cause the user to close their eyes, as the bright light is uncomfortable. In embodiments, the visible light LED may be configured to gradually brighten and / or flash, both indicating that the activation of the IR LED is imminent and increasing the discomfort level, thereby causing the eyes to close.

[0058] In some embodiments, an electronic sensor is employed to verify that the eye is closed. The sensor will permit the IR radiation only when the eyelids are detected as being closed. The sensor is mounted on the same side as the IR diodes 110. An example of such a sensor is the eye open / closed sensor 130. For example, sensor 130 transmits a signal indicating whether the eyes or open or closed to the control circuit. The control circuit will correspondingly turn the IR LED ON or OFF. In some embodiments, the sensor may send a signal to the control circuit which acts as a circuit breaker, such that when the IR LED is activated, but the sensor senses that one or both of the eyelids are open, the signal sent from the sensor instructs the control circuit to switch off the IR LEDs.

[0059] Another method and mechanism for preventing the irradiation of the open eye is depicted in Figure 4. Figure 4 illustrates a profile view of a spring cover that protects the eyes of the user by pressing on the eyelids to keep them closed. A spring-cover 400 is adapted to be mounted on the eyewear. Upper and lower springs 410 attach the apparatus to the eye wear, on the open end, and on the other end hold the device 420. The device is adapted to touch and lightly press the eyelids in order to keep them closed.

[0060] Figure 3 illustrates a basic schematic diagram of a control unit 300. In some example embodiments, the control unit 300 is assembled, or even embodied / embedded, on / in the holder clip, for example, on / in the outer face 12, of the holder clip 10. In an alternative configuration, the control unit is assembled on the power cord. In either configuration, the control unit is in wired communication with the radiation PCB 100.

[0061] The control unit 300 contains a control circuit 310 that determines the radiation time and power of the emitted IR radiation, and preferably low-level light therapy. In some embodiments, the control circuit further senses the temperature of the eyelids, e.g., via a temperature sensor 140. In some embodiments, the control circuit senses the level of hydration of the eye, e.g., via the eye wetness sensor 150.

[0062] The power and time of IR radiation may function according to preset parameters, but in embodiments with temperature and / or hydration sensors, the preset parameters may be modulated or overridden based on threshold settings for eyelid temperature and / or hydration of the eye(s).

[0063] In embodiment, the control circuit can apply steps of power radiation during its operation e.g., switching between preset power settings, according to a programed routine.

[0064] In embodiments, the control circuit applies Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) technology to set the power of IR radiation. PWM is a commonly used control technique that generates analog signals from digital devices such as microcontrollers. In PWM technique, the signal’s energy is distributed through a series of pulses rather than a continuously varying (analog) signal.

[0065] That said, the control circuit can be either analog or can use a dedicated microprocessor. The radiation power, radiation time, and / or the maximum eyelids temperature can be preset or can be programed wirelessly via a mobile phone application, via IR communications, and / or via radio communication.

[0066] In yet another alternative configuration, the control unit 300 is a stand-alone device that is in wireless communication with the radiation PCB 100 and serves as a remote controller for the heating device. In this latter configuration, the control unit 300 includes a wireless communications element 360 which pairs with a corresponding wireless communications component 160 on the radiation PCB 100. The wireless element 360 and wireless component 160 are shown in dashed lines, to indicate that this configuration is optional. In such a case, the control circuit (e.g., a microprocessor) 190 must be embedded / embodied in / on the radiation PCB 100. In the aforementioned configurations, a control circuit 190 may be embodied on the radiation PCB 100 in addition to, and working in tandem with, the control circuit 310 on the control unit 300.

[0067] Figures 5A, 5B and 5C illustrate various views of another example configuration and embodiment of the invention. Fig. 5A depicts an isometric view of a system or assembly 500 that includes a holder 510 and a monocular / single-eye device 530. In embodiments, the monocular device is an IR emitter (e.g., an LED-LLLT). Fig. 5B depicts the system 500 with the monocular device exploded away from the holder. Fig. 5C depicts an exploded view of the monocular device 530. The

[0068] Holder 510 is an example embodiment of the apparatus that both holds the device and clips it on to eyeglasses or an eyewear frame. A first face of the holder, identified herein as the front face 512, is adapted to hold, or house, the device 530. A second face, identified herein as the back face 522, is configured with a clip member 520 for clipping the system to the eyewear / frame. The holder section of the apparatus includes two lip or gutter sections 514 on the left and right sides of the holder.

[0069] In preferred embodiments, the device is housed in a housing. In example embodiments, the housing includes a base section, a middle section, and a covering. The housing / device 530 is adapted to be inserted into the holder, e.g., by sliding the device downwards from the top of the holder such that side walls of a base section 534 of the housing of the device 530 slides within the channels defined by the curved gutters 514. In embodiments, as depicted in the example embodiment of Figs. 5A and 5B, the edges of the curved lips / gutters 514 of the holder have indentations 516 along the edges. These indentations are adapted to mate with one or two knobs or protrusions 536 (only one knob is visible in the Figures) on an outer section / covering 532 of the housing of the device 530 (see discussion of Fig. 5C for more details). The indentations 516 and corresponding knob 536 (or knobs, e.g., one on each side) allow the user to position the device in the holder such that the device is located directly in front of the eye. The reason for this configuration is to allow for clipping onto frames of different shapes and sizes. Some frames have a higher upper edge, e.g., in line with, or even above the eyebrow, while other frames have a lower upper edge, e.g., below the eyebrow. Therefore, it is useful to be able to adjust the height of the device within the holder.

[0070] Furthermore, the outer or facing section 532 (also referred to interchangeably herein as “covering”, “lid”, “heat covering”, “heat panel”, “heat plate”, and variations thereof) of the housing of the device 530, which is the section that comes into contact with the eyelid and keeps it closed, is angled or slanted in such a manner that a lower edge 531 of the outer / facing section 532 is adapted to be closer to the face of the user than an upper edge 533 of the outer / facing section 532. This configuration is needed to compensate for the general design of glasses frames and the topology of the face and ensures that the outer / facing section 532 is pressed against the eyelid (to keep it closed during the session).

[0071] In the example embodiment depicted in Figs. 5A-C, the heat cover 532 includes three concentric circles 540 which illustrate and define a concavity in the cover surface. This concavity is placed over the closed eyelid. The concavity can also be used as a guide for positioning of the device over / in front of the eye of the user.

[0072] In embodiments, the PCB (or ceramic substrate) further includes a temperature sensor 548. In embodiments, the concavity protrudes inside the housing of the device and touches the temperature sensor 548 which senses the lid / cover temperature. The temperature sensor provides sensor data to the controller which ensures that the lid temperature does not exceed a predefined threshold (so that the device does not burn the eyelid or feel uncomfortable). In alternative embodiments, instead of a concavity, there may be a convexity that protrudes outwards (towards the eye), e.g., for ensuring that the eye is pressed shut during the session.

[0073] Fig. 5C depicts an exploded view of the monocular device 530. The device is housed in a housing that includes a base and a lid which enclose the electronic components therebetween. The top section or lid of the housing includes an outer or facing section 532 and a middle section 538. The middle section includes indentations which corresponding hooks latch onto when the lid is attached to the base. The hooks are disposed on the sidewalls of the base. The base member 534 includes various partitions and areas defined by protrusion and / or contours of the molded base piece (e.g., made from extruded thermoplastic, PVC, and the like).

[0074] A printed circuit board (PCB) or other suitable substrate 542 has electronic components disposed thereon. The PCB 542 is laid on top of partitions / supports / spacers formed as part of the base piece. Two light emitting diodes (LEDs) 544, 546 are located, in the example embodiment, on either side of a temperature sensor 548. One LED is an IR LED 544. In preferred embodiments, the IR LED emits low-power infrared radiation. The LLLT radiation performs two functions: warming the eyelid by heating the cover 532 which melts the congealed Meibomian secretion leading to increased secretion of lipid tears as well as direct stimulation of aqueous tear production. IR stimulates the nerves that innervate the tear glands leading to increased aqueous tear production.

[0075] The number of infrared diodes can be one, two or more. The infrared diodes can be placed on the PCB in one row or two rows or more rows they can form a triangle, circle, or other shape. In embodiments, each diode can radiate at a different wavelength. The diodes (when there are two or more) can radiate at the same time or at different times.

[0076] In embodiments, there is another LED 546 that emits white / visible light and serves as an indicator for indicating statuses of the device, e.g., that the device is connected to power, or that the emitters are active, etc. The white (or other color visible spectrum) light can be seen through the closed eyelid, and indicates, for example, that the device is operating. Alternatively, or additionally, the white / colored LED 546 can indicate a different state or condition (e.g., low battery, error, session type, etc.) In some embodiments, an audio component (not shown) is included in the device or control unit and may additionally, or alternatively, indicate the start and / or conclusion of a therapy session.

[0077] The PCB is operationally coupled to a cable 550. The cable enters the housing via a contoured opening in the lid and base pieces. A fastening tube 552 fastens the cable to the housing. In embodiments, cable 550 provides energy to the electronic components from an external power source. In embodiments, the cable further facilitates communication signals from a control unit that is located externally to the device. In embodiments, the control unit is disposed along the cable 550 or on the terminal end of the cable 550. In embodiments, the control unit is collocated with the power source (e.g., a battery, such as a rechargeable battery). In other embodiments, the control unit is located separately from the power source. The control unit draws energy from the power source (e.g., via the cable, or via conductive / connective components). The control unit (e.g., control unit 300, or a similar control unit) controls the functions of the monocular device, for example, as described above from control unit 300. In the example embodiment, the electronic components draw energy from an external power source via cable 550. It is understood that this configuration takes into account various safety considerations (and in some cases safety regulations) that prefer not to have a power source, such as a battery, inside the housing that presses against the user’ s eyelid. As such, should these considerations be mitigated, another embodiment it is envisioned whereby a power source such as a battery can be provided inside the device housing. The latter configuration would obviate the need for a power cable.

[0078] In embodiments, the control unit may be embedded or operationally coupled to the housing 530 and / or holder 510 (e.g., with control button / s disposed on the outer facing side of the clip 520, or on the upper edge of the housing or side of the holder). Any arrangement would necessitate appropriate connectivity to the electronic components and the power source. The control circuit can use any circuit with or without the microprocessor. The control circuit powers the infrared diodes with direct or pulsed current.

[0079] In embodiments, the electronic components inside the housing (e.g., LEDs, IR emitter, etc.) are in wireless communication with a control unit. To facilitate such communication, both the device and the control unit would need to have wireless communications components / methods (way) such as Bluetooth®, WiFi, cellular, and / or other components / methods well known in the art. Furthermore, with wireless communication capabilities, the device can be controlled from a wireless device such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, and the like. In most cases, an additional processing unit (such as a microcontroller) would be needed on the PCB.

[0080] In the depicted example embodiment in Figs. 5A-C, the device further includes a lid mask 560. The lid mask evenly spreads the heat so that there is a consistent heat across the surface of the outer / facing section, i.e., the cover / lid. The temperature of the heat plate / panel is a function, at least in part, of the thickness of the heat plate / cover.

[0081] Another configuration of the invention is shown in Figure 6. Fig. 6 depicts an example embodiment of a binocular device 600 according to the present invention. The binocular device includes two IR radiation devices (for warming the eyes and stimulating tear production) 630, 630' inserted in a double -holder frame 610. The double holder frame includes two holders 610', each of which is similar to holder 510. The frame 610 further includes a bridge 670 which couples the holders together.

[0082] According to embodiments, the bridge is not only a mechanical connector (mechanically coupling the holders together), but also an electrical connector. According to these embodiments, power (and control signals) from a cable 650, which is operationally coupled to the first device 630, is (are) conducted to the second device 630' via bridge 670. Various modifications may be made to the holders and / or the devices to achieve the aforementioned transfer of energy.

[0083] In other embodiments, an electrical wire 672 (shown in dashed lines to indicate that it is an optional alternative), or some other electrically conductive means, runs from the cable 650, which is operationally coupled to the first device 630, to the electrical components housed in device 630', via a cable opening 650' on the second device 630'. The conductive means may run over the bridge 670 (as depicted) or via the bridge.

[0084] Each of the devices is substantially the same as device 530 with some minor changes. As mentioned above, the first device 630 is operationally coupled to the cable 650, whereas the second device 630' has no cable connected thereto. According to the configuration detailed above, whereby the bridge conducts electrical energy between the devices, electrical connectors (e.g., such as connector pins, not shown) on the devices and / or holders facilitate conduction of energy between the two devices, via the bridge. All the other components of the assembly binocular device 600 are similar, mutatis mutandis, to the corresponding components in the monocular device 500.

[0085] Figure 7 depicts an IR LED / emitter 740 and a heat panel 732 (similar to heat cover 532 seen in Figs. 5A-C). In general, some of the IR radiation passes through the cover and some of the radiation is trapped by the cover, which results in the cover heating up. Seeing as both IR radiation and the warmth generated by the IR radiation are therapeutic, it is desired that some radiation escapes the cover while some of the radiation heats the cover. The temperature of the heat plate is a function, at least in part, of a thickness of the heat plate / cover 732 / 532. If desired, a circular recess 734 can be disposed in front of the IR LED, as depicted in Fig. 7. This recess (a concavity or even a convexity) is adapted to allow more or less radiation to escape, and conversely increase or decrease the quantity of heat energy from the IR emitter to the heat panel. The thickness of the recess / convexity is chosen based on how much radiation escapes and how much is trapped in the panel.

[0086] Implementation of the method and / or system of embodiments of the invention can involve performing or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to actual instrumentation and equipment of embodiments of the method and / or system of the invention, several selected tasks could be implemented by hardware, by software or by firmware or by a combination thereof using an operating system.

[0087] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to embodiments of the invention could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more tasks according to exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, non-transitory storage media such as a magnetic hard-disk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a network connection is provided as well. A display and / or a user input device such as a keyboard or mouse are optionally provided as well.

[0088] For example, any combination of one or more non-transitory computer readable (storage) medium(s) may be utilized in accordance with the above-listed embodiments of the present invention. A non-transitory computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non — exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage medium would include the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable non-transitory storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0089] A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0090] As will be understood with reference to the paragraphs and the referenced drawings, provided above, various embodiments of computer-implemented methods are provided herein, some of which can be performed by various embodiments of apparatuses and systems described herein and some of which can be performed according to instructions stored in non-transitory computer-readable storage media described herein. Still, some embodiments of computer- implemented methods provided herein can be performed by other apparatuses or systems and can be performed according to instructions stored in computer — readable storage media other than that described herein, as will become apparent to those having skill in the art with reference to the embodiments described herein. Any reference to systems and computer — readable storage media with respect to the following computer-implemented methods is provided for explanatory purposes and is not intended to limit any of such systems and any of such non-transitory computer-readable storage media with regard to embodiments of computer-implemented methods described above. Likewise, any reference to the following computer-implemented methods with respect to systems and computer-readable storage media is provided for explanatory purposes and is not intended to limit any of such computer-implemented methods disclosed herein.

[0091] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware — based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0092] The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0093] As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0094] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration”. Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and / or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.

[0095] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0096] The above-described processes including portions thereof can be performed by software, hardware and combinations thereof. These processes and portions thereof can be performed by computers, computer-type devices, workstations, processors, micro-processors, other electronic searching tools and memory and other non-transitory storage-type devices associated therewith. The processes and portions thereof can also be embodied in programmable non — transitory storage media, for example, compact discs (CDs) or other discs including magnetic, optical, etc., readable by a machine or the like, or other computer usable storage media, including magnetic, optical, or semiconductor storage, or other source of electronic signals.

[0097] The processes (methods) and systems, including components thereof, herein have been described with exemplary reference to specific hardware and software. The processes (methods) have been described as exemplary, whereby specific steps and their order can be omitted and / or changed by persons of ordinary skill in the art to reduce these embodiments to practice without undue experimentation. The processes (methods) and systems have been described in a manner sufficient to enable persons of ordinary skill in the art to readily adapt other hardware and software as may be needed to reduce any of the embodiments to practice without undue experimentation and using conventional techniques.

[0098] While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated that many variations, modifications and other applications of the invention may be made. Therefore, the claimed invention as recited in the claims that follow is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS1. An assembly for an infrared (IR) radiation device for relieving symptoms of dry eye syndrome, the assembly comprising: a device including: an IR radiation emitter, and a heat plate for trapping a portion of IR radiation emitted by the IR radiation emitter to heat the heat plate and for allowing a portion of the IR radiation to pass there-through so as to irradiate tear glands; and a holder for the IR radiation emitter and heat plate, the holder configured to position the heat plate against a closed eyelid of a user so that the IR radiation device simultaneously warms the closed eyelid and stimulates nerves to produce tears.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the IR radiation emitter includes at least one IR light emitting diode (LED).

3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein an external power source is coupled to the IR radiation emitter via a power cord.

4. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the IR radiation emitter is powered by a battery.

5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the IR radiation emitter is embodied on, or embedded in, a printed circuit board (PCB) or on a ceramic substrate.

6. The assembly of claim 1, the device is operationally coupled to a control circuit.

7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the control circuit and the IR radiation emitter are embodied on a single printed circuit board (PCB) or on a ceramic substrate.

8. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the control circuit and the IR radiation emitter are embodied on two separate printed circuit boards (PCBs) or ceramic substrates.

9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the heat panel includes a concavity or convexity on an external face thereof.

10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the heat panel includes a concavity or convexity disposed above the IR radiation emitter on an inner face of the heat panel.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the concavity or convexity is adapted to allow more IR radiation to pass there-through than a remaining portion of the heat panel.

12. The assembly of claim 2, further including a light emitting diode (LED) on the PCB or ceramic substrate, the LED configured to emit visible light.

13. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the holder includes a clip for attaching the device to eyewear.

14. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the holder is an eye wear apparatus.

15. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the PCB or ceramic substrate is housed in a housing.

16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the holder is adapted to receive the housing slidably therein.

17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the holder includes indentations for positioning the housing therein.

18. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the heat plate is angled to press against the closed eyelid.

19. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the control circuit is adapted to control at least one of: activation of the IR radiation source, deactivation of the IR radiation source, selection of a preprogrammed therapy session.

20. An assembly for treating for relieving symptoms of dry eye syndrome, comprising: two holders coupled together by a bridge; each of the two holders including a device comprising: an IR radiation emitter, and a heat plate for evenly dissipating heat generated by the IR radiation emitter; wherein each of the two holders is configured to position the respective heat plate against a closed eyelid of a user so that the IR radiation device simultaneously warms the closed eyelid and stimulates nerves to produce tears.

21. The assembly of claim 20, wherein the two holders are configured to be clipped onto eyeglasses.

22. The assembly of claim 20, wherein the bridge mechanically and electrically couples the two holders together.

23. The assembly of claim 1, wherein a temperature of the heat plate is a function, at least in part, of a thickness of the heat plate.

24. A method comprising: using the assembly of claim 1 for simultaneously heating an eyelid of a subject and stimulating tear production in the subject.

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