DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TREATING THE SKIN - Patent application

Abstract

According to some embodiments, a skin treatment system includes a manifold assembly including at least one fluid connector for securing at least one treatment fluid container, a primary handpiece configured to fluidly couple to the manifold assembly using at least one fluid conduit, and a flow control device disposed along the at least one fluid conduit and configured to switch flow of treatment fluid from the at least one treatment fluid container between the primary handpiece and a port configured to couple to a secondary handpiece, and a vacuum source configured to operably couple to the system for selectively creating suction along the primary handpiece.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 254,455, filed October 11, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Technical field]

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This application relates generally to the treatment of skin, and more specifically to devices, systems, and methods for treating human skin. [Background technology]

[0003] Ablation of the outer layer of skin or epidermis is desirable to smooth or reduce the appearance of scars, age spots, or other skin conditions that may be caused by, for example, acne, sun exposure, and aging. Standard techniques used for ablation of the skin are generally divided into two categories called dermabrasion and microdermabrasion. Both techniques remove a portion of the epidermis called the stratum corneum, which the body interprets as a minor injury. Thus, the body replaces the lost skin cells, resulting in a new outer layer of skin. Furthermore, despite the mild edema and erythema associated with the procedure, the new outer layer of skin makes the skin look and feel smoother. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to some embodiments, a skin treatment system includes a manifold assembly including at least one fluid connector for securing at least one treatment fluid container, a primary handpiece configured to fluidly couple to the manifold assembly using at least one fluid conduit, and a flow control device disposed along the at least one fluid conduit and configured to switch flow of treatment fluid from the at least one treatment fluid container between the primary handpiece and a port configured to couple to a secondary handpiece, and a vacuum source configured to operably couple to the system for selectively creating suction along the primary handpiece.

[0005] According to some embodiments, the vacuum source is configured to create suction along the port, hi some embodiments, the port is not configured to communicate with the vacuum source.

[0006] According to some embodiments, the flow control device comprises a valve. In some configurations, the valve comprises a three-way valve. In some embodiments, the flow control device is manually controlled. In some embodiments, the flow control device is automatically controlled. In some embodiments, the flow control device is automatically controlled based on the ongoing skin treatment protocol.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the flow control device is automatically controlled based on one or more inputs from a user. In some embodiments, the one or more inputs are provided using a user input device. In some embodiments, the user input device comprises a touch screen, a keyboard, a button, a switch, or other device.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the flow control device is at least partially automatically controlled by a control module of the system.In some embodiments, the manifold assembly is configured to receive at least two treatment fluid containers.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the manifold assembly includes at least one automatic tag reader configured to obtain information from a tag disposed on the at least one treatment fluid container when the at least one treatment fluid container is secured to the manifold assembly, hi some configurations, the at least one automatic tag reader includes an RFID reader.

[0010] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to receive at least one command from a user using a gesture control system. In some embodiments, the gesture control system comprises at least two gesture sensors. In one embodiment, the gesture control system comprises at least four gesture sensors.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one flow meter configured to measure a flow rate of the fluid passing through the at least one fluid conduit. In some embodiments, the treatment fluid is delivered from the manifold assembly to the at least one fluid conduit using a pulsed pattern. In some embodiments, the pulsed pattern is generated by actuating an air release valve in communication with the at least one fluid conduit.

[0012] According to some embodiments, a method of treating skin using a skin treatment system includes conveying at least one treatment fluid from a tower assembly to a primary handpiece, the tower assembly comprising a manifold, the manifold comprising at least one fluid connector for securing at least one treatment fluid container, the primary handpiece configured to fluidly couple to the manifold using at least one fluid conduit, the method further includes switching a flow of the at least one treatment fluid along the at least one fluid conduit using a flow control device, the flow control device configured to switch the flow of the at least one treatment fluid between the primary handpiece and a port, the port configured to couple to the secondary handpiece, and a vacuum source configured to create a suction force along the primary handpiece.

[0013] According to some embodiments, a skin treatment system includes a tower assembly (e.g., a console) including a manifold assembly including at least one fluid connector for securing at least one treatment fluid container, a primary handpiece assembly configured to fluidly couple to the tower assembly using at least one fluid conduit, a valve disposed along the at least one fluid conduit and configured to switch flow of treatment fluid from the at least one treatment fluid container between the primary handpiece assembly and a port configured to couple to a secondary handpiece assembly, and a vacuum source (e.g., a vacuum pump) configured to create a suction force along the primary handpiece assembly.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the secondary handpiece is not configured to communicate with a vacuum source.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the valve comprises a three-way valve, hi some embodiments, the valve is manually controlled.

[0016] In some embodiments, the valve is automatically controlled. In some configurations, the valve is automatically controlled based on an ongoing skin treatment protocol. In some embodiments, the valve is automatically controlled based on one or more inputs from a user. In some embodiments, the one or more inputs are provided using a user input device (e.g., a touch screen). In some embodiments, the valve is automatically controlled, at least in part, by a control module of the system.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the manifold assembly is configured to receive at least two treatment fluid containers (eg, two, three, four, etc.).

[0018] According to some embodiments, the manifold assembly includes at least one automatic tag reader configured to obtain information from a tag disposed on the at least one treatment fluid container when the at least one treatment fluid container is secured to the manifold assembly, hi some embodiments, the at least one automatic tag reader includes an RFID reader.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to receive at least one command from a user using gesture control techniques.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one flow meter configured to measure a flow rate of fluid passing through the at least one fluid conduit.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the treatment fluid is delivered from the manifold assembly to the at least one fluid conduit using a pulsed pattern, hi some embodiments, the pulsed pattern is generated by actuating an air release valve in communication with the at least one fluid conduit.

[0022] According to some embodiments, a method of treating skin using a skin treatment system includes conveying at least one treatment fluid from a tower assembly to a primary handpiece assembly, the tower assembly comprising a manifold assembly, the manifold assembly comprising at least one fluid connector for securing at least one treatment fluid container, the primary handpiece assembly configured to fluidly couple to the tower assembly, the primary handpiece assembly fluidly coupled to the tower assembly using at least one fluid conduit, the method further includes switching a flow of the at least one treatment fluid along the at least one fluid conduit using a valve, the valve configured to switch the flow of the at least one treatment fluid between the primary handpiece assembly and a port, the port configured to couple to a secondary handpiece assembly, and a vacuum source configured to create a suction force along the primary handpiece assembly.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the secondary handpiece is not configured to communicate with a vacuum source.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the valve comprises a three-way valve, hi some embodiments, the valve is manually controlled.

[0025] In some embodiments, the valve is automatically controlled. In some configurations, the valve is automatically controlled based on an ongoing skin treatment protocol. In some embodiments, the valve is automatically controlled based on one or more inputs from a user. In some embodiments, the one or more inputs are provided using a user input device (e.g., a touch screen). In some embodiments, the valve is automatically controlled, at least in part, by a control module of the system.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the manifold assembly is configured to receive at least two treatment fluid containers (eg, two, three, four, etc.).

[0027] According to some embodiments, the manifold assembly includes at least one automatic tag reader configured to obtain information from a tag disposed on the at least one treatment fluid container when the at least one treatment fluid container is secured to the manifold assembly, hi some embodiments, the at least one automatic tag reader includes an RFID reader.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to receive at least one command from a user using gesture control techniques.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the method further comprises measuring a flow rate of the fluid passing through the at least one fluid conduit using at least one flow meter.

[0030] According to some embodiments, the treatment fluid is delivered from the manifold assembly to the at least one fluid conduit using a pulsed pattern, hi some embodiments, the pulsed pattern is generated by actuating an air release valve in communication with the at least one fluid conduit.

[0031] According to some embodiments, a method of treating skin using a skin treatment system includes transferring a first treatment fluid from a first container (e.g., a bottle) to a handpiece assembly of the skin treatment system and transferring a second treatment fluid from a second container (e.g., a bottle) to the handpiece assembly, the skin treatment system comprising a tower assembly having a manifold assembly, the manifold assembly configured to receive the first container and the second container, the manifold assembly comprising a main fluid conduit that combines fluids transferred from the first container and / or the second container, the handpiece assembly configured to fluidly couple to the manifold assembly of the tower assembly via the main fluid conduit, the manifold assembly comprising a first branch conduit communicating the first container to the main fluid conduit, the manifold assembly further comprising a second branch conduit communicating the second container to the main fluid conduit. The method further includes adjusting flow of the treatment fluid through the first branch conduit and the second branch conduit to move desired amounts of the first treatment fluid and the second treatment fluid to the main fluid conduit and the handpiece assembly.

[0032] According to some embodiments, adjusting the flow of the treatment fluid includes adjusting at least one valve fluidly coupled to the first branch conduit and / or the second branch conduit. In some embodiments, at least one valve is fluidly coupled to each of the first branch conduit and the second branch conduit. In some embodiments, the at least one valve is automatically controlled. In other embodiments, the at least one valve is manually controlled.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the first branch conduit and the second branch conduit each include or are in communication with a flow meter, the flow meter configured to determine a flow rate of the treatment fluid passing through the first or second branch conduit. In some embodiments, the main fluid conduit includes a composite flow meter, the composite flow meter configured to determine a total flow rate of the treatment fluid delivered to the handpiece assembly through the main fluid conduit.

[0034] According to some embodiments, a processor of the skin treatment system (or a processor operably coupled to the skin treatment system) is configured to adjust the flow rate of treatment fluid through the first branch conduit, the second branch conduit, and the main fluid conduit.

[0035] According to some embodiments, a tip configured to be secured to a distal end of a hand piece of a skin treatment system comprises a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end configured to be secured to the hand piece, a peripheral lip located along the distal end and defining an interior region, a roller ball disposed within the interior region and secured to the tip and configured to rotate when moved relative to a skin surface, and at least one vacuum port terminating adjacent the reeler ball within the interior region and configured to create suction or vacuum along the tip to remove spent fluid and other debris, the at least one vacuum port communicating with a vacuum passage or conduit in the tip, the vacuum passage or conduit configured to fluidly couple to a vacuum or suction source when the tip is secured to the hand piece.

[0036] According to some embodiments, the roller ball extends past or protrudes relative to the peripheral lip. In some embodiments, the interior region comprises an oval or egg-shaped shape. In some embodiments, the roller ball is located along a larger diameter portion of the interior region and the at least one vacuum port is located at a smaller diameter portion of the interior region. In some embodiments, the interior region comprises a circular shape.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the plane defined by the distal end of the peripheral lip is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the tip and an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0038] According to some embodiments, the peripheral lip is configured to abrade skin tissue when the tip contacts and is moved relative to the skin tissue, hi some embodiments, the peripheral lip comprises a sharp edge and / or an abrasive structure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0039] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present application will be described with reference to drawings of specific embodiments that are intended to illustrate, not limit, the invention, It is understood that these drawings are for the purpose of illustrating the various concepts disclosed herein and may not be to scale.

[0040] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a tower assembly and other components of a skin treatment system according to one embodiment.

[0041] [Figure 2A] 1 illustrates a flow diagram for a skin treatment system according to one embodiment.

[0042] [Figure 2B] 13A and 13B illustrate a flow diagram for a skin treatment system according to another embodiment.

[0043] [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a flow diagram for a skin treatment system according to one embodiment.

[0044] [Figure 3B] 13A and 13B illustrate a flow diagram for a skin treatment system according to another embodiment.

[0045] [Figure 3C] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a flow diagram for a manifold region of a skin treatment system according to one embodiment.

[0046] [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a handpiece assembly configured for use in a skin treatment system according to one embodiment.

[0047] [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B shows a side view of the handpiece assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0048] [Diagram 5] 4B illustrates a side view of a cartridge configured to be inserted within the handpiece assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0049] [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tip configured to be secured along a distal end of a handpiece assembly of a skin treatment system. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a tip configured to be secured along a distal end of a handpiece assembly of a skin treatment system.

[0050] [Figure 7A] 1 shows a diagram of one embodiment of a tip having a roller ball and configured to be secured along a distal end of a handpiece assembly. [Figure 7B] 1 shows a diagram of one embodiment of a tip having a roller ball and configured to be secured along a distal end of a handpiece assembly. [Figure 7C] 1 shows a diagram of one embodiment of a tip having a roller ball and configured to be secured along a distal end of a handpiece assembly.

[0051] [Figure 7D] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7E] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7F]7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7G] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7H] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7I] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7J] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. [Figure 7K] 7A-7C depict an embodiment of a tip that is the same as or similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG.

[0052] [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates a manifold assembly of a skin treatment system and a bottle configured to be secured to the manifold assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates a manifold assembly of a skin treatment system and a bottle configured to be secured to the manifold assembly according to one embodiment.

[0053] [Figure 9A] 1 illustrates a vial and corresponding tag reader portion of a tower assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 9B] 1 illustrates a vial and corresponding tag reader portion of a tower assembly according to one embodiment.

[0054] [Figure 10A] 1 illustrates a diagram of a bottle configured to be placed within a manifold assembly of a skin treatment system according to one embodiment. [Figure 10B] 1 illustrates a diagram of a bottle configured to be placed within a manifold assembly of a skin treatment system according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] Although the various embodiments of the handpiece assembly have particular relevance to skin treatment systems, the features, advantages, and other properties disclosed herein may be directly or indirectly applicable to other applications, such as, for example, medical instruments and / or mechanical devices.

[0056] Some embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein are highly advantageous because they include one, some, or all of the following advantages: improved delivery of treatment fluid to the subject's skin; delivery of fluid to the subject's skin with reduced chance of contamination; improved collection of data regarding the skin treatment procedure; improved treatment protocols can be provided based on the collection and processing of data; and improved security and other anti-counterfeiting measures regarding fluids delivered by the skin treatment system.

[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a skin treatment system 10. As illustrated, the system 10 can include a tower assembly 12 that includes various components and features of the system. For example, in some embodiments, the tower assembly 12 includes a manifold assembly 100 for receiving one or more (e.g., one, two, three, four, five or more, etc.) bottles or other containers of treatment fluid used in a skin treatment treatment. The tower assembly 12 can further include one or more waste canisters or other containers configured to receive used fluid, stripped or otherwise removed skin tissue, and / or other waste resulting from the skin treatment treatment. In some configurations, one or more of the bottles, canisters, or other containers designed or otherwise configured to be secured to the tower assembly 12 can be replaceable, interchangeable, and / or otherwise removable (e.g., for emptying, autoclaving or other types of cleaning, replacement, etc.).

[0058] The tower assembly 12 may further include (and / or be configured to communicate or cooperate with) one or more input and / or output devices (e.g., a touch screen or other monitor 20, a keyboard, other controllers, etc.), an outer housing or other external structure, tubing, one or more trays or other storage components 30, casters or other wheels 18, internal components (e.g., a processor, memory, power sources, sensors, tubing, valves and / or other fluid pressure components, electrical wiring and other electrical components, etc.), and the like.

[0059] 2A illustrates generally one embodiment of a flow diagram 200A that may be used in connection with skin treatment system 10A. As illustrated, the components of system 10A may be included in and / or on console assembly 12. System 10A may be configured to include and / or be used with one or more handpiece assemblies (e.g., handpieces, other handheld instruments, etc.) 50, 60, 70, as desired or required. System 10A may include a suction or vacuum source V (e.g., a vacuum pump). In some embodiments, a suction or vacuum source V is included in the system, while in other configurations, the system is configured to be selectively connected to a suction or vacuum source V (e.g., a suction or vacuum source separate from the system).

[0060] According to some embodiments, when activated, the vacuum source V can create suction (e.g., a negative pressure relative to atmospheric or ambient pressure) along the distal end (e.g., tip) of the hand piece assembly. In some configurations, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, such suction or vacuum force along the tip or distal end of the hand piece can help draw one or more treatment fluids into the tip or distal end (e.g., via the manifold assembly 100, via a vial or cartridge disposed within the hand piece assembly). In some embodiments, the tip or distal end includes a peripheral lip or peripheral member configured to contact skin tissue. Such a lip or other peripheral member can form at least a partial seal with the skin and help generate a vacuum or suction force in an interior area surrounded by the lip or member. In turn, according to some configurations, vacuum or suction forces in such interior regions along the tip or distal end can help draw fluids and / or other therapeutic substances from one or more sources into the tip or distal end (e.g., using suction or vacuum alone, without the need to apply positive pressure to the fluids or other therapeutic substances being delivered to the tip or distal end).

[0061] According to certain embodiments, one or more bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D can be in communication with the manifold assembly 100 or other multi-branched assembly or system, as shown generally in Figures 3A and 3C. In some configurations, one or more valves or other flow control devices or components 112 can be disposed between each fluid source (e.g., a bottle) and a main delivery conduit or other fluid line 116 that connects the manifold assembly 100 to the handpiece assembly 50, as shown in Figure 3A. The valves or other flow control devices 112, which can include two-way valves, can be configured to regulate the flow of therapeutic substance from one or more of the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D to the main delivery conduit 116 and thus the handpiece assembly 50.

[0062] 3A, the handpiece assembly 50 can be in communication with a suction source (e.g., a vacuum pump, not shown) using one or more vacuum or suction conduits or other fluid lines 140. In the configuration disclosed herein, the manifold assembly 100 includes a total of four fluid branches. However, the system can include more or fewer fluid branches (e.g., one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or more, etc.) as desired or required by a particular application or use. Additionally, one or more of the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D disposed within the manifold assembly 100 can include a cleaning fluid (e.g., for periodic cleaning and / or flushing of the manifold assembly and / or other components that may come into contact with treatment fluids or other substances).

[0063] According to certain embodiments, one or more of the fluid conduits of the manifold system shown in FIG. 3A are configured to receive and convey serum and / or other treatment fluids, and the like. However, alternatively, one or more of the conduits may be configured to receive and convey water (e.g., distilled water, tap water, filtered water, and the like), saline, other diluents or solvents, and / or other fluids, and the like, to the handpiece assembly 50. Such fluids may be configured to at least partially contact, dissolve, dilute, liquefy, soften, and / or otherwise mix with one or more solids, gels, and / or other substances located on various surfaces or portions (e.g., the tip) of the handpiece assembly 50. In some configurations, this can provide a convenient way of delivering one or more substances to the skin-tip interface and / or any other location where such substances are desired or needed.

[0064] As described in further detail herein in connection with FIG. 8, the tower assembly 12 of the skin treatment system 10 may include one or more identification components, tools, and / or other features that conveniently provide data or other information to a user, manufacturer or supplier, and / or any other party or entity related to the skin treatment procedure performed by a particular system. For example, the system 10 may be configured to identify one or more RFID tags or other identifiers (e.g., other electromagnetic identifiers, graphic or other visual identifiers such as QR codes, bar codes, alphanumeric codes, etc.) affixed to or otherwise associated with a container of serum or other treatment fluid. The tags or other identifiers may aid in ensuring that the correct serums and other treatment serums are utilized for a particular skin treatment or other protocol.

[0065] 2A , one or more flow meters 120 or other flow measurement (e.g., measuring, estimating, etc.) devices may be included in the fluid path connecting the manifold assembly 100 to one or more handpiece assemblies 50, 60. Such flow meters 120 may be used to measure or estimate the amount of fluid (e.g., treatment fluid, irrigation fluid, etc.) being delivered from a bottle or other container connected to the manifold assembly 100.

[0066] In some embodiments, the measured or estimated flow rate may be an amount of actual flow rate. However, in other embodiments, the flow rate may be a relative flow rate (e.g., as a ratio or percentage) relative to one or more other flow rate measurements. For example, with reference to the schematic diagram shown in FIG. 3C and described in more detail below, a relative flow rate of fluid and / or other material passing through one or more flow meters 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D may be detected, measured, or otherwise approximated. Such a relative flow rate may be a ratio or percentage of the flow rate in one of the flow meters and / or in the primary flow meter 120, etc.

[0067] Measuring or estimating the flow rate can help verify proper function and / or use of the skin treatment system 10. For example, the flow meter 120 can help ensure that the correct amount of treatment fluid is being delivered to the handpiece assembly. Use of the flow meter 120 can help identify leaks and / or misuse, and the like. In some embodiments, the flow meter 120 comprises an electromechanical flow meter. However, any type of flow meter 120 can be used as desired or required, including, but not limited to, a positive displacement flow meter, a velocity flow meter (e.g., turbine, paddle wheel, ultrasonic, electromagnetic, vortex shedding, ultrasonic flow meters, etc.), a mass flow meter, or any other type of flow meter.

[0068] According to some embodiments of a skin treatment system, one or more valves or other flow control devices may be located adjacent to (e.g., near, upstream, downstream, etc.) one or more flow meters. For branches of a conduit whose flow rate is determined or estimated by a flow meter, a flow control device may be located remotely from a corresponding flow meter so long as flow through that branch is at least partially controlled by the flow control device.

[0069] In some configurations, one or more aspects of such flow control devices can be modified to regulate the flow of fluids and / or other substances through one or more valves or other flow control devices. In some embodiments, such modifications or adjustments can be based at least in part on measurements or estimates provided by one or more flow meter devices of the system. For example, the system can include valves or other flow control devices along one or more branches of a fluid conduit system or network (e.g., the branches connecting each of the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D of the manifold system 100 in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3C to the main conduit 116). In some embodiments, such branches or conduit sections can include one or more flow meter devices 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3C. Thus, in some configurations, flow through the branches or conduits can be modified (e.g., continuously, intermittently, etc.) to achieve delivery of a desired or required therapeutic substance mixture from a manifold or other fluid source to a handpiece.

[0070] In some configurations, a three-way valve or other flow switching device 126 is disposed along the conduit 116 fluidly connecting the manifold assembly 100 to the handpiece assembly 50. As shown in FIG. 2A, such a three-way valve 126 can be located downstream of the flow meter 120. However, in other configurations, a three-way valve may be disposed upstream of the flow meter in addition to or instead of disposing such a valve downstream of the flow meter, as desired or necessary. The three-way valve 126 may be connected to an outlet conduit or other outlet fluid line 130 that extends to the exterior of the tower assembly 12 or other housing (e.g., to a convenient location (e.g., direct and / or unobstructed access) on the exterior of the tower assembly or other surface). For example, the outlet conduit 130 may extend to a port or other fitting 132. Such a port or fitting may include a standard type port or fitting 132. However, in alternative embodiments, the port or fitting 132 is non-standard (e.g., including a custom design, shape, connection method, etc.).

[0071] According to some embodiments, the port or other fitting 132 is configured to receive a second, different handpiece assembly (e.g., a handpiece other than the main handpiece assembly 50). In other words, the port 132 is connectable to a different handpiece separate from the main handpiece 50 (e.g., connected to the manifold assembly 100 of the system). In some embodiments, such a different handpiece assembly (not shown) is configured to communicate with a bottle or other fluid container secured to the manifold assembly 100. This can be accomplished by operation of the valve 126. For example, the valve 126 can be positioned to selectively allow treatment fluid to be delivered to either the main handpiece assembly 50 or the port 132. A handpiece assembly can be connected to the port 132 to allow such handpiece assembly to communicate with the manifold assembly. Thus, in some embodiments, as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 2A, the system can include the ability to fluidly connect the manifold assembly (and / or any other fluid source) to at least two handpieces.

[0072] The three-way valve 126 may be configured to be manually operated (e.g., by a user manipulating a switch, valve, or other actuator). Alternatively, the valve 126 may be automatically controlled by a system (e.g., a system control module, gesture control, etc.). Such automatic control may be based, at least in part, on one or more of the following: an ongoing treatment protocol and / or one or more user preferences or other inputs (e.g., via a touch screen or other user input device), etc.:

[0073] Thus, in some embodiments, the system can facilitate the use of two or more handpiece assemblies that can be fluidly connected to the manifold assembly. In other embodiments, the valve 126 can be configured to include three or more flow options. Thus, the valve can allow flow of treatment fluid to three or more locations (e.g., handpiece assemblies, ports for receiving handpiece assemblies, etc.) as desired or required.

[0074] As described herein with reference to FIG. 3A, in some embodiments, treatment liquid and / or other fluids or substances contained in bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D are transferred to the handpiece assembly 50 upon activation of the vacuum or suction source V. For example, treatment fluid and / or other substances contained in one or more of the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D secured to the manifold assembly 100 may be transferred to the main fluid conduit 116 when the tip or other distal end 52 of the handpiece assembly 50, 60 is placed on the skin surface to be treated and suction is created at the tip or distal end 52 by activation of the vacuum or suction source V. As mentioned above, the tip or other distal end portion of the handpiece may include a peripheral lip or member for providing at least a partial seal with adjacent skin tissue in use, thereby creating an interior that is subjected to the vacuum or suction force generated by the vacuum or suction source. Thus, in such a configuration, therapeutic fluid and / or other substances from the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D are “pulled” or moved into the handpiece assembly 50 using suction forces generated along the handpiece assembly.

[0075] In other embodiments, therapeutic fluid and / or other substances may be transferred from the manifold assembly 100 to the handpiece assembly 50 using application of positive pressure in or along the main fluid conduit 116 and / or bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D secured to the manifold assembly 100. This may be accomplished instead of, or in addition to, creating suction along the handpiece assembly 50 (e.g., as shown generally in Figures 3A and 3B and described above).

[0076] Fluids and / or other therapeutic substances from two or more bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D secured to the manifold assembly 100 can be delivered sequentially or simultaneously to the handpiece assembly 50 as desired or required. As described, the fluid network of the system can include one or more valves, other flow control devices or components, and / or flow meters, etc., to help regulate the flow of fluids and / or other substances from a fluid source (e.g., the manifold assembly, a vial or cartridge, etc.) to the tip or distal end of the handpiece.

[0077] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to continuously deliver treatment fluid from the manifold assembly 100 to the handpiece assembly 50. However, in other embodiments, a pulsed pattern can be used to provide the treatment fluid. In some configurations, the pulsed pattern can be generated by selectively activating one or more air release valves 124 in communication with a fluid conduit or line that couples (e.g., fluidly couples or otherwise connects) the handpiece assembly (e.g., hand piece) to the manifold assembly. The terms "handpiece assembly" and "handpiece" are used interchangeably herein.

[0078] 2A, the system 10 may include one or more additional handpiece assemblies (e.g., handpieces) 60, 70 coupled to the tower or console 12 (or may be configured for use with such handpiece assemblies). As shown, the alternative handpiece assembly 60 may include a handpiece that is not fluidly coupled to the manifold assembly 100 and thus not in communication with a bottle or other container 110 secured to the manifold assembly 100. Instead, the alternative handpiece assembly 60 may include a recess or other area configured to receive a vial or other fluid container. The vial or other fluid container may contain a therapeutic fluid and / or substance that may be selectively delivered to the tip or distal end of the alternative handpiece assembly 60 (e.g., upon activation of the vacuum source V).

[0079] According to some embodiments, the system is configured to conveniently accommodate both handpieces 50 in communication with the manifold assembly 100, and handpieces 60 that are fluidly isolated from the manifold assembly 100. Regardless of their exact configuration, any handpiece assembly (e.g., handpieces) 50, 60 included in and / or used with the system 10 may be configured to communicate with a vacuum source V (e.g., a vacuum pump located within the tower or console 12).

[0080] 2A , the suction conduits 140, 142 of the primary handpiece assembly 50 and the alternate handpiece assembly 60 can be fluidly connected to a three-way valve or other flow control device 146. In some configurations, at least a portion of such valve 146 and the conduits or other fluid lines 140, 142, 148 connected to the valve 146 are disposed within the housing or other internal location of the tower or console 12.

[0081] According to some embodiments, an output conduit or fluid line 148 coupled to the three-way valve 146 transitions (e.g., directly, indirectly) to one or more waste canisters 150. In FIG. 2A , the waste canisters 150 are located at least partially along the exterior of the tower or console 12. However, in alternative configurations, the waste canisters 150 may be located at least partially within the tower or console 12 and / or at any other location as desired or required. In some embodiments, the waste canisters are separate from the tower or console.

[0082] The waste canister 150 can be in communication with a system vacuum pump or other vacuum pump V via one or more fluid conduits 160, valves 170, regulators, and / or components. In some configurations, the waste canister 150 includes a lid adapter 152, which can include a port, fitting, or other connection to which the conduit 160 can be coupled.

[0083] With further reference to FIG. 2A , a three-way valve 146 to which both the primary handpiece assembly (e.g., hand piece) 50 and the alternate handpiece assembly (e.g., hand piece) 60 are fluidly coupled can be automatically and / or manually controlled or operated. According to some embodiments, the valve 146 is automatically actuated or otherwise moved to a desired orientation based on one or more selections made by a user of the skin treatment system 10. For example, if a user selects a treatment procedure using treatment fluid from one or more of the bottles or other containers 110 secured to the manifold assembly 100, the control module of the system 10 can be configured to switch the three-way valve 146 to a position such that a vacuum is created in the fluid conduit 140 coupled to the primary handpiece assembly (e.g., hand piece) 50. Alternatively, if a treatment protocol requires the use of a vial or cartridge secured to the hand piece itself, the three-way valve 146 can be automatically actuated to create suction in the fluid conduit 142 coupled to the alternate handpiece assembly (e.g., hand piece) 60.

[0084] Systems 10A, 10B can be configured to accommodate one or more other types of handpiece assemblies and / or other modalities (e.g., in addition to a primary handpiece and secondary / alternate handpieces as described herein). For example, as shown generally in FIG. 2A, a lymphatic handpiece assembly (e.g., handpiece) 70 can be secured to a port or other fitting (not shown) of a tower or console 12. When coupled to the tower or console 12, such a handpiece assembly 70 can be in communication (e.g., via one or more conduits, filters, valves, mufflers, and / or any other fluid-related components) with a vacuum pump or other vacuum source V of the system.

[0085] In some embodiments, as shown generally in FIG. 2B, the tower or console 12 of system 10B includes only a single port, fitting, or other connection point configured to be secured to a handpiece 50. As shown, unlike the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the need for a separate (e.g., second) port or fitting 132 can be eliminated, as desired or necessary. Such a configuration can simplify the overall system, reduce system complexity with respect to fluids within the tower or console, improve manufacturability, and provide one or more other advantages or benefits.

[0086] With reference to Figure 2B, the tower or console 12 can include a manifold assembly 100. As described above with reference to the embodiment shown in Figure 2A, the manifold assembly 100 can be configured to receive one or more (e.g., three, four, five, six or more, etc.) containers (e.g., bottles) 110A-110D. Fluids and / or other therapeutic substances from one or more containers or other sources coupled to the manifold assembly can be selectively delivered to a tip or distal end of a handpiece coupled (e.g., directly, indirectly, fluidically, etc.) to the manifold assembly and / or other portions of the tower or console of the system.

[0087] In some configurations, one or more valves or other flow control devices or components 112 may be disposed between each fluid source (e.g., a bottle) and a main delivery conduit or other fluid line 116 that connects the manifold assembly 100 to the handpiece assembly 50, as shown generally in FIG. 3A. The valves or other flow control devices 112, which may include two-way valves, check valves, and / or any other type of valve, may be configured to regulate the flow of therapeutic substance from one or more of the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D to the main delivery conduit 116 and thus the handpiece assembly 50. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, such as the configuration shown generally in FIG. 3A, or variations thereof, one or more flow meters or other flow measuring or estimating devices may be included to aid in determining whether and how to alter flow through one or more portions of the system's fluid network (e.g., the manifold assembly, the conduits fluidly coupling the manifold assembly to the handpieces, the fluid passageways of the handpieces, etc.).

[0088] As discussed above with reference to FIG. 3A, the handpiece assembly 50 can be in communication with a suction source (e.g., a vacuum pump, not shown) using one or more vacuum or suction conduits or other fluid lines 140. In the configuration disclosed herein, for example, the manifold assembly 100 includes a total of four fluid branches. However, the system can include more or fewer fluid branches (e.g., one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or more, etc.) as desired or required by a particular application or use. Additionally, one or more of the bottles or other containers 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D disposed within the manifold assembly 100 can include a cleaning fluid (e.g., for periodic flushing and / or cleaning of the manifold assembly).

[0089] According to certain embodiments, one or more of the fluid conduits of the manifold system shown in FIG. 3A are configured to provide serum and / or other treatment fluids, etc. Alternatively, however, one or more of the conduits may be configured to receive water (e.g., distilled water, tap water, filtered water, etc.), saline, other diluents or solvents, and / or other fluids, etc. to the handpiece assembly 50. Such fluids may be configured to contact and dissolve, dilute, liquefy, soften, and / or otherwise mix with one or more solids, gels, and / or other substances located on various surfaces or portions (e.g., tip) of the handpiece assembly 50. This can provide a convenient method of delivering one or more substances to the skin-tip interface and / or any other location where such substances are desired or needed.

[0090] Further, as shown generally in FIG. 3B and described herein, with respect to any skin treatment system 10A, 10B or equivalents disclosed herein (e.g., the embodiments shown in FIG. 2A and / or FIG. 2B), the system may be configured to allow a user (e.g., an aesthetician, cosmetologist, dermatologist, etc.) to (1) connect the handpiece assembly 50 to the manifold assembly 100 (e.g., using a “dummy” cartridge 90 as shown in FIG. 3A ) and / or (2) directly insert a cartridge 92 containing an actual fluid or treatment substance into the handpiece assembly (e.g., into a recess in the handpiece assembly as shown in FIG. 3B ). These two options may be used interchangeably to perform a treatment procedure or protocol, as desired or required.

[0091] With further reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 2B, a fluid conduit 116 may connect the manifold assembly 100 (and thus any bottles or other containers 110A-110D secured thereto) to the handpiece assembly 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10B includes a flow sensor 120, a check valve 122, a purge valve 124, and a check valve 126 along the fluid conduit or fluid path from the manifold assembly 100 to the handpiece assembly 50. However, in other configurations, more or fewer (and / or different fluidic components, mechanical components, etc.) may be included. Such components may be located, at least in part, within or along the fluid path or fluid conduit (e.g., inside and / or outside the tower or console 12), and / or within or near the handpiece assembly (e.g., handpiece) 50, and / or may be otherwise included, as desired or required.

[0092] As discussed above with reference to the schematic diagram shown in FIG. 2A, in some configurations, the vacuum or aspiration system or source configured to couple to handpiece 50 of FIG. 2B may be the same, similar, or substantially similar to a vacuum or aspiration system or source for a separate handpiece (e.g., handpiece 60) that uses a different port or connection point. In some embodiments, the tower or console (and / or the fluidic components of the tower or console and / or the fluidic components of the entire fluid network of the system) are configured to use (and even use) the same vacuum or aspiration system or source. One or more aspiration systems or sources that serve to generate vacuum or aspiration pressures for any handpieces fluidly coupled to the system may be coupled to or incorporated, at least in part, into the tower, console, or other parts or components of the system. However, in other embodiments, such a vacuum or suction system or source is separate from the system but is configured to be operably coupled to the system to assist in generating a desired or required negative pressure (e.g., relative to atmospheric or ambient pressure) at the handpiece-skin interface during use.

[0093] An output conduit or fluid line 148 coupled to the three-way valve 146 may lead to one or more vacuum waste canisters 150. In FIG. 2A, the vacuum waste canister 150 is located along the exterior of the tower or console 12. However, in alternative configurations, the waste canister 150 may be located at least partially within the tower or console 12 and / or any other location as desired or required. For example, in some embodiments, the waste canister 150 may be in communication with a vacuum pump or other vacuum pumps V of the system via one or more fluid conduits 160, valves 170, regulators, and / or components. In some configurations, the waste canister 150 includes a lid adapter 152 that may include a port, fitting, or other connection to which the conduit 160 may be coupled.

[0094] In some embodiments, the system 10B is configured to accommodate one or more other types of handpiece assemblies and / or other modalities, as shown generally in FIG. 2B. For example, as shown generally in FIG. 2B, a lymphatic handpiece assembly 70 may be secured to a port or other fitting (not shown) of the tower or console 12. When coupled to the tower or console 12, such a handpiece assembly (e.g., handpiece) 70 may be in communication with a vacuum pump or other vacuum source V of the system (e.g., via one or more conduits, filters, valves, mufflers, and / or any other fluid related components).

[0095] In embodiments in which the tower or console 12 of system 10B includes only a single port, fitting, or other connection for a handpiece assembly 50 (e.g., as in the configuration of FIG. 2A), the handpiece 50 can be configured to accept one of multiple tips 52 along its distal end. This can be useful for accommodating different treatment modalities that would otherwise be available only through the use of two or more different handpiece assemblies 50 (e.g., such as the configuration shown generally in FIG. 2A).

[0096] Various embodiments of tips 52, 52A, 52B, 52C can be secured to the distal end of a handpiece 50, 60, 70, such as a handpiece disclosed or contemplated herein, or equivalents thereof. Exemplary embodiments of such tips are shown, without limitation, in Figures 6A, 6B, and 7A-7C. More information regarding tips is provided below.

[0097] One embodiment of a handpiece or handpiece assembly 50 that can be used with the tower or console 12 of the skin treatment systems 10A, 10B is shown in Figures 4A and 4B. As shown, the handpiece 50 can include a lever or other control 53 for regulating the flow of treatment fluid and / or substance to a distal end 51 of the handpiece. A tip 52 can be removably secured to the distal end 51 of the handpiece.

[0098] 4A and 4B, the handpiece or handpiece assembly 50 can be configured to receive a cartridge 92. In some embodiments, as described below with reference to FIG. 3B, the cartridge or vial 92 itself is configured to store a treatment liquid or other substance (e.g., in one or more of the chambers of the cartridge 92). In other configurations, however, as shown in FIG. 3A, the cartridge or vial 92 may be a "dummy" cartridge or interface device or component that communicates the handpiece with a manifold assembly or other fluid network 100 (e.g., of the tower or console 12 of the skin treatment system 10A, 10B). In such an embodiment, the cartridge 92 includes a proximal fitting (e.g., a luer) 93 that can receive a fluid conduit (e.g., a main delivery conduit or other fluid line 116) that communicates the manifold assembly 100 with the handpiece assembly 50.

[0099] According to some embodiments, the cartridge 92, whether a cartridge containing a fluid or other therapeutic substance in an internal chamber or a "dummy" cartridge 92 that connects the handpiece to a manifold or other fluid source or network, is configured to be removably disposed in the recess 57 of the handpiece assembly 50. In some embodiments, the recess comprises an open recess accessible along the exterior of the handpiece assembly. In some configurations, the recess 57 is easily accessible from the exterior of the handpiece assembly, allowing a user to insert and remove the cartridge 92 from the recess as desired or necessary without manipulating any portion of the handpiece assembly 50 (e.g., without opening the interior of the handpiece, without performing additional steps, etc.). In some configurations, the recess 57 is located along the proximal end of the handpiece assembly 50 and faces away from or substantially away from the distal end 51 of the handpiece assembly 50 and any tip 52 secured along the distal end 51.

[0100] For any embodiment of the skin treatment system disclosed herein, the cartridge 92 may be configured to be locked and released from the handpiece assembly 50. In some configurations, the cartridge 92 can be locked and released using a rotation, twist, push, slide, and / or other movement of the cartridge relative to the handpiece once the cartridge is secured to the handpiece. According to some embodiments, the cartridge 92 is configured to be locked to a body portion of the handpiece assembly using one or more devices or methods, such as, for example, locking tabs, clasps, magnetic connectors, and / or other fasteners.

[0101] With further reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, a luer or other fitting 55 disposed along a proximal end (e.g., proximal half) of the handpiece assembly 50 can be configured to couple to a vacuum or suction conduit 140 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2A and 2B). As shown in FIG. 3A and described herein, the suction conduit or line 140, once fluidly coupled to a vacuum or suction source (e.g., a vacuum pump) V, can serve to generate a vacuum or suction force along the distal end and / or tip 52 of the handpiece. As also described herein, the tip or other distal end of the handpiece used in the system can include a peripheral lip or surrounding member that contacts skin tissue during use. In some embodiments, such a peripheral lip or surrounding member extends along a radially outer boundary of the tip or distal end and defines an interior. Such an interior can be in communication (e.g., via corresponding ports or openings) with one or more vacuum and / or fluid delivery conduits. Thus, once the tip or other distal portion is positioned along the target skin tissue, a closed seal can be formed or substantially formed between the tip / distal end and the skin surface. As a result, a vacuum or suction force can facilitate the transfer of fluid and / or other therapeutic substances to the tip (e.g., from a cartridge secured to the handpiece, from a reservoir of a manifold system in communication with the handpiece, etc.).

[0102] 3A illustrates generally the use of a "dummy" cartridge 90 secured to a handpiece 50. Such a cartridge 90 may be in communication with a manifold system 100, such as the manifold system 100 of a tower or console system. In some configurations, the cartridge 90 includes a port or other connector (e.g., a luer) 93 along a proximal end that is sized, shaped, or otherwise configured to connect to a conduit 116 in communication with the manifold system 100.

[0103] In other embodiments, the "dummy" cartridge 90 of FIG. 3A can be replaced with a fluid and / or other therapeutic substance cartridge 92, as shown in FIG. 3B. Such a cartridge 92 can include one or more chambers that contain serum and / or other therapeutic fluids or substances. In such embodiments, a vacuum or suction force generated along the tip or distal end of the handpiece can help draw serum and / or other therapeutic fluids / substances stored within the cartridge into the tip or distal end when the tip or distal end is positioned along the target skin surface.

[0104] In some embodiments, both a "dummy" cartridge 90 in communication with the manifold 100 (e.g., as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3A) and a cartridge 92 that itself contains one or more serums or fluids, such as a booster vial (e.g., as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 3B), may be used in a particular system and / or procedure. Thus, in some configurations, a user may be able to exchange cartridges 90, 92 during and / or between therapeutic steps or procedures as desired or necessary.

[0105] As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, one or more flow meters 120 or other flow measurement devices may be included in the fluid path connecting the manifold assembly 100 to the one or more handpiece assemblies 50, 60. The flow meters 120 may be used to measure or estimate the amount of fluid (e.g., treatment fluid, cleaning or rinsing fluid, etc.) being conveyed from a bottle or other container coupled to the manifold assembly 100. As discussed above, this may help to verify proper and / or safe function, operation, and / or use of the skin treatment system 10. For example, the flow meters 120 may help ensure that the correct amount of treatment fluid is being delivered to the handpiece assembly. The use of the flow meters 120 may help to identify leaks and / or misuse, etc. In some embodiments, the flow meters 120 comprise electromechanical flow meters. However, any type of flow meter 120 may be used as desired or required, including, but not limited to, a positive displacement flow meter, a velocity flow meter (e.g., turbine, paddle wheel, ultrasonic, electromagnetic, vortex shedding, ultrasonic flow meters, etc.), a mass flow meter, or any other type of flow meter.

[0106] 2A and 2B, systems 10A, 10B can include at least one flow meter 120 designed or otherwise configured to measure the flow rate of treatment fluid delivered from manifold assembly 100 (and one or more bottles or containers 110A-110D secured to the manifold assembly) to handpiece assembly 50. As shown, flow meter 120 can be located throughout manifold assembly 100 (e.g., fluidly downstream of the aggregate output of the manifold assembly, downstream of a point where flows from all of the bottles or other containers 110A-110D of the manifold assembly combine, etc.). Thus, in some embodiments, systems 10A, 10B are configured to detect and measure (e.g., within a desired level of accuracy, more illustratively, plus or minus at least 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, a percentage greater than 20%, within a percentage value between the aforementioned ranges and values, etc.) the flow rate of all fluids and / or other therapeutic substances exiting manifold assembly 100 at any point during treatment.

[0107] As described herein, the ability to detect flow rates of fluids and / or other therapeutic substances can provide one or more benefits and / or advantages. For example, the measurements (e.g., measuring flow rates within a desired range of accuracy, approximating flow rates at a more general and / or broad level, etc.) can be useful for tracking and predicting / approximating usage (e.g., with respect to reordering, misuse, etc.) of substances, reusables, and / or supplies, etc. Additionally, measurements or estimates of flow rates can be useful for identifying leaks and / or misuse, etc.

[0108] In some embodiments, the use of flow metering can help to properly balance the amount of fluid delivered to the hand piece from a bottle or other container secured to the manifold system or other fluid network. This can be particularly useful when two or more fluids and / or other therapeutic substances are delivered simultaneously from the manifold assembly to the hand piece. As described herein, the use of valves or other flow control devices, flow metering devices, sensors, and / or other components can be used to achieve the desired amount of flow control and balance when the system is in use.

[0109] By way of example, in some embodiments, the system may include one or more other flow meters 114A-114D instead of, or in addition to, flow meter 120 configured to measure or estimate the total flow rate of fluid and / or other therapeutic substance (e.g., from all bottles, containers, or other sources 110A-110D combined) delivered from manifold assembly 100 to handpiece 50. Such flow meters 114A-114D may be configured to measure the flow rate of fluid and / or other therapeutic substance transferred from each of the bottles or other containers 110A-110D secured to the manifold assembly, as shown generally in FIG.

[0110] Thus, in some embodiments, this configuration can enable monitoring of the amount (e.g., volume, mass, etc.) of treatment fluid and / or other substance coming from each bottle or other container 110A-110D secured to the manifold assembly 100 (e.g., toward an outlet of the manifold assembly 100).

[0111] In some embodiments, one or more valves or other flow control mechanisms or devices (not shown herein) can be disposed adjacent (e.g., fluidically, mechanically, and / or physically, etc.) to each of the flow meters 114A-114D. Such valves or other flow control devices or mechanisms can be configured to be automatically and / or manually adjusted. In some embodiments, automatic adjustment of the position of the valves (and thus the flow rates of fluids and / or other therapeutic substances passing through the valves or other flow control devices) can enable (e.g., automatically) proper balancing of the flow of one or more fluids / substances delivered from one or more containers 110A-110D secured to the manifold assembly (e.g., fluidically to or toward the handpiece assembly).

[0112] According to some configurations, for example, an automatic flow control or balancing configuration may include one or more of a control unit (e.g., processor, memory, etc.), controller, sensor, wiring, wireless communication components, user input devices, and / or user output devices, in addition to any fluid conduits or lines, fittings, flow meters 120, 114A-114D, and / or valves or other flow control mechanisms and / or devices.

[0113] Thus, in some embodiments, two or more fluids and / or other therapeutic substances can be delivered to the handpiece assembly 50 from the containers 110A-110D secured to the manifold assembly. The ability to combine fluids to be delivered to the handpiece simultaneously or substantially simultaneously can provide another advantage or benefit. For example, such a configuration can allow one or more delivered fluids / substances to be activated (e.g., short-term, long-term, etc.) by another delivered fluid / substance. In other embodiments, combining substances (e.g., two or more) can create new or variant therapeutic fluids or substances and / or provide some other benefit. Thus, customized formulations can be created by adjusting or otherwise controlling the relative proportions of two or more fluids and / or other therapeutic substances delivered to the handpiece assembly (e.g., handpiece) and the tip or other distal end or portion of the handpiece. Such relative combinations can be performed automatically or manually, as desired or necessary.

[0114] In some embodiments, such embodiments can help determine, and if necessary, adjust, the flow rate and / or other delivery rate of fluids and / or other substances from one or more containers (e.g., bottles) secured to the manifold assembly to the handpiece assembly 50. This can ensure that an appropriate amount of substance is being delivered to the subject when and / or during a skin treatment procedure. Such embodiments can improve the efficacy and / or treatment outcome (e.g., with respect to the subject being treated), can help improve efficiency and / or reduce costs, can aid in record keeping and / or inventory management for users, customers, and / or distributors, etc.

[0115] As mentioned above, the handpiece assembly 50 is configured for use with one or a variety of skin treatment tips that may be removably and / or replaceably disposed along the distal end of the handpiece assembly (e.g., handpiece). At least some embodiments of such tips 52, 52A-52C are shown in Figures 6A, 6B, and 7A-7C. As shown, the tips may include any of the tips disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,048,089, filed as U.S. Patent Application No. 11,392,348 on March 29, 2006, and issued on November 1, 2011, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof. See, e.g., Figures 5A-11E and corresponding disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 8,048,089.

[0116] 7A-7C show various views of one embodiment of a tip 52C configured to be removably disposed along a distal end of a handpiece assembly 50. As shown, the tip 52C can include a peripheral or outer lip 54 along a distal portion. Such peripheral or outer lip 54 can define an interior (e.g., an interior region). According to some embodiments, the interior region can include a roller ball 56 and / or similar features. In some embodiments, the roller ball can be in communication (e.g., directly, indirectly) with the interior region of the tip. The interior region of the tip can be in communication (e.g., along the exterior of the roller ball) with and / or otherwise configured to be in contact with a therapeutic serum, fluid, and / or other substance configured to be delivered to the tip.

[0117] 7A-7C, tip 52C can further include one or more ports or other openings 58. Such ports or other openings 58 can serve to communicate the tip with a vacuum or other suction source and / or a fluid source (e.g., a canister, bottle, and / or other container, whether or not disposed with a manifold assembly).

[0118] In some embodiments, the top (e.g., distal-most portion) of the roller ball 56 is aligned or substantially aligned with the top (e.g., distal-most portion) of the peripheral lip 54. In other embodiments, the top (e.g., distal-most portion) of the roller ball 56 is proximal or substantially proximal than the top (e.g., distal-most portion) of the peripheral lip 54. In alternative configurations, the top (e.g., distal-most portion) of the roller ball 56 is distal (e.g., "protruding") or substantially distal than the top (e.g., distal-most portion) of the peripheral lip 54.

[0119] In some embodiments, the top (e.g., the most distal portion) of roller ball 56 may be 0%-25% (e.g., 0-25, 0-5, 5-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20-25, 5-20%, more than 25%, etc.) of the diameter of roller ball 56 closer to or closer to the top (e.g., the most distal portion) of peripheral lip 54. In some embodiments, the top (e.g., the most distal portion) of roller ball 56 may be 0.1 mm-10 mm (e.g., 0.1-10, 0.1-1, 1-2, 2-3, 3-4, 4-5, 0.1-5, 5-10 mm, values ​​between the above ranges or values, more than 10 mm, etc.) closer to or closer to the top of roller ball 56 closer to or closer to the top (e.g., the most distal portion) of peripheral lip 54.

[0120] According to some embodiments, the use of roller ball 56 along the tip can facilitate delivery of fluids and / or other therapeutic substances as the tip (and thus the roller ball) moves along the target skin surface. In some embodiments, a peripheral lip 54 can engage the tip with the target skin tissue and help form or create a "seal" between the tip and the skin tissue. In some configurations, once such a "seal" is formed, a vacuum or suction created along the port or other opening 54 can help remove used fluids / substances, abraded skin tissue and / or other debris, etc. from the tip 52C. Additionally, the creation of suction or vacuum along the tip can also aid in the delivery of fluids (e.g., from a manifold, a separate cartridge secured to the handpiece, etc.) to the tip. Fluid delivery can occur through / around the roller ball 5, via one or more ports and / or openings, etc., as desired or required.

[0121] Figures 7D-7K show various views of one embodiment of tip 52C having the same or similar roller ball as the embodiment shown in Figures 7A-7C. Figures 7D and 7E show front and rear perspective views, respectively, of the tip. Figures 7F and 7G show front and rear views, respectively, of the tip. Figures 7H and 71 show left and right side views, respectively, of the tip. Figures 7J and 7K show top and bottom views, respectively, of the tip.

[0122] Additionally, in some configurations, the tip may include one or more structures, features, members, and / or other components configured to at least partially abrade tissue as the tip moves relative to the skin. In some embodiments, such features have sharp or substantially sharp features that aid in abrading skin tissue. In some configurations, such features are immobile and are incorporated into the tip (e.g., as part of an integral structure with the tip). In some embodiments, the abrasive structures are disposed along an interior defined by the peripheral lip (e.g., as shown in Figures 6A and 6B). In other embodiments, the peripheral lip includes at least abrasive structures in addition to or in place of any additional (e.g., internal) abrasive structures or features.

[0123] As discussed above, such tips 52, 52A, 52B, 52C may be shaped, dimensioned, and / or otherwise configured to be secured to and / or detached from the handpiece assembly 50, 60, 70. The tips may be disposable, such that they are discarded and / or replaced during or after a treatment procedure. In other configurations, however, the tips may be configured to be reusable (e.g., as a result of their material (e.g., stainless steel, other metals or alloys, other composites, etc.), as a result of their construction or design, etc.). Thus, in some configurations, the tips are configured to withstand temperature fluctuations, chemicals, and / or other conditions that may be encountered in connection with cleaning, disinfection, and / or sterilization, etc.

[0124] In some embodiments, the plane defined by the distal-most portion of the tip (e.g., the peripheral lip) can be inclined with respect to both the longitudinal axis of the tip (and the handpiece assembly to which the tip is secured) and an axis orthogonal or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. This can provide one or more advantages or benefits to a user operating the handpiece assembly, such as increasing the surface area of ​​such a plane, providing improved ergonomic, functionality, and comfort features, etc.

[0125] As mentioned above, the system can be configured to obtain information regarding the contents of bottles or other containers that are placed in corresponding receiving stations of the manifold assembly.

[0126] FIG. 8A illustrates a manifold assembly 100 of the tower 12 or other portion of the skin treatment system 10. The manifold assembly 100 is configured to receive a plurality of bottles 210 (e.g., containing serum, treatment fluid, cleaning solution, etc.). In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 8B, each of the bottles 210 can include a body portion 214 and a cap portion 216. The cap portion 216 can be configured to include at least one surface or area sized, shaped, or otherwise arranged to receive an automatic identification tag 300, such as an RFID tag or chip, a bar code, or the like. Such a tag can be used to conveniently store information about a particular bottle, vial, or other container. For example, the tag can include information about the contents of the container, expiration date, date of manufacture, size, lot number, skin treatment for which the contents are intended to be used, other limitations, or restrictions on use (e.g., contraindications, side effects, other fluids that should not be combined with the contents, etc.).

[0127] The RFID or other identification tag can be read or otherwise detected (e.g., automatically, manually, etc.) by one or more readers or detectors 104 of the manifold assembly 100, the handpiece assembly, and / or any other portion of the tower or console, and / or the skin treatment system. For example, in some embodiments, such a reader 104 may be located at or near each station of the manifold system 100 (e.g., adjacent the portion of the manifold to which the nozzle or top of the bottle or other container 210 is secured). Thus, the RFID or other type of reader 104 can detect and identify the RFID tag on the bottle or other container.

[0128] Similarly, as shown in Figures 9A and 9B, an RFID or other type of reader 260 can detect and identify an RFID or other identification tag 400 on a vial 250 when such a vial or small container 250 is placed in or near the reader 260. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 9B, a tag reader 260 for vials and similar small fluid containers 250 is placed in or near a tray 30 of a console or tower 12.

[0129] According to some embodiments, the tray or other storage or work platform 30 includes a specially formed recess shaped, dimensioned, or otherwise configured to receive a vial or other small container or vessel 250. In some embodiments, such a vial or vessel is sized, shaped, and / or otherwise configured to hold up to 5-20 ml (e.g., 5 ml, 6 ml, 7 ml, 8 ml, 9 ml, 10 ml, 11 ml, 12 ml, 13 ml, 14 ml, 15 ml, 15 ml-20 ml, 5 ml-10 ml, 8 ml-12 ml, volumes between the aforementioned values ​​and ranges, etc.) of fluid and / or other therapeutic substance that may be used as part of a therapeutic procedure and / or other procedure associated with the system (e.g., washing, rinsing, priming, other preparatory operations or steps, etc.). However, in other embodiments, the volume of such a vial may be less than 5 ml or more than 20 ml, as desired or required.

[0130] In some configurations, the vials or other containers 250 are configured to be positioned within such recesses or other receiving areas in a manner such that the RFID tag or other identifier of each vial 250 is in a desired orientation relative to the RFID or other type of reader 260. Thus, placing a vial in such a recess in the tray 30 (and / or removing the vial from the recess) can automatically enable the reader 260 to obtain information about the vial.

[0131] In situations where the detected identifier is inconsistent with the correct, expected, safe, appropriate, and / or approved operation of the system, the system can be configured to prevent the use of fluid from that vial or container (e.g., by terminating the vacuum source, by maintaining a solenoid or other valve in a closed position, by otherwise preventing the flow of fluid from one or more of the bottles or other containers to the fluid delivery system of the manifold 100, the handpiece, and the tower and / or other portions of the skin treatment system, etc.).

[0132] The use of RFID or other identification tags on bottles, vials, and / or other containers in the system can provide one or more advantages or benefits. Data regarding the use of and / or associated with the corresponding container (e.g., bottles, vials, etc.) can be collected or otherwise aggregated to generate reports for billing, reordering, and / or other purposes. In some embodiments, the number of times a container can be removed and reinserted into a manifold or handheld assembly can be limited as desired or necessary (e.g., 1 time, 2 times, 3 times, 4 times, etc.). For example, such a limit can help prevent or reduce the possibility of contamination of the fluid. In some embodiments, automatic identification of a fluid container secured to the system (e.g., manifold station, handheld assembly, etc.) can enable the system to determine whether rinsing, flushing, and / or other steps or actions are required before fluid from that container can be used and / or before any other action can be performed in connection with use of the system.

[0133] According to some embodiments, the use of RFID or other identification tags can facilitate the execution of a particular skin treatment protocol by the system. For example, the system can include various bottles containing fluids necessary to perform any one of several different skin treatment procedures. For example, treatment sequences can be configured for use in treatments such as periodic or regular microdermabrasion treatments, anti-aging, anti-acne, skin lightening, and / or treatment of oily skin. Each of the sequences, protocols, or modes can include the delivery of one or more of various serums and / or other fluids contained in bottles or other containers 210 that are in communication with the manifold assembly 100 and / or other portions of the skin treatment system.

[0134] 10A and 10B show various views of an embodiment of a bottle 210 configured to be secured to the manifold assembly 100 of the skin treatment system 10. As shown, the bottle 210 can include a body portion 214 and a cap portion 216. As described above, the cap portion 216 can be configured to include at least one surface or area sized, shaped, and otherwise arranged to receive an automatic identification tag 300, such as an RFID tag or chip, a bar code, and the like. Thus, in some configurations, the cap 216 includes a generally planar annular portion 217 for receiving a tag (not shown in FIG. 10B). As shown, the cap portion 216 can include a nozzle N extending upward (e.g., away from the body portion 214), the nozzle N being configured to be secured to a corresponding station or other portion of the manifold assembly 100. In some embodiments, the cap portion 216 of the bottle includes one or more notches or other features 218 to assist in aligning the bottle 210 with the manifold.

[0135] For any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the skin treatment system and / or methods implemented using the skin treatment system can incorporate one or more light therapy steps. According to some embodiments, the light source comprises a light wand, a panel, and / or some other device or system. The light can include a light emitting diode (LED). The color (e.g., blue light, red light, etc.), intensity, duration, and / or one or more other characteristics associated with the LED or other light source can be adjustable to achieve a particular goal or purpose. For example, light therapy can help improve the outcome of skin treatments related to acne, aging, inflammation, and the like. In some embodiments, the light source, which can include a device that is positioned and maintained in position over the subject's face or other part of the body structure, can be configured to be operably coupled to a tower, console, or other part of the skin treatment system. The light source or other device can be directly or indirectly coupled to the tower or other part or component of the system. In other embodiments, the light source or device is not directly or physically coupled to the system.

[0136] In some embodiments, the light source can be configured to be (e.g., removably) secured to, positioned along, near, and / or otherwise cooperate with a skin treatment tower or console, such as the tower or console 10 shown in FIG. 1. The light source can include a wand that is physically coupled (e.g., via a cable or other connection line) to the tower or console (and / or any other components and / or parts of the skin treatment system). However, in other embodiments, the light source is not physically coupled to the tower or console (and / or any other components and / or parts of the system). In such a configuration, the light source can be wirelessly operably coupled to the tower or console (and / or any other components and / or parts of the skin treatment system, such as a processor or cloud network).

[0137] As discussed above, the light source may include a wand or other handpiece device. In other configurations, however, the light source comprises a panel or some other device configured to be placed over the subject's skin (e.g., as a tent or other covering member). Such panel configurations may include one or more hinges or other components to allow the light source to be folded and / or otherwise reconfigured into a desired orientation or shape.

[0138] Regardless of the exact configuration of the light source, the light source can be configured to be charged / recharged by the tower or console (and / or any other components and / or portions of the skin treatment system). For example, the tower or console can include a power receiving area (e.g., a charging base, a docking station, an inductive charging area, etc.), a charging cable, and / or a charging port, etc., to which the light source can be operably coupled. This can facilitate charging of the light source when not in use by the practitioner. In one embodiment in which the light source includes a panel, the tower or console can include a power receiving area along the rear (e.g., behind the display 20) for the light source.

[0139] In some embodiments, control of the light source may be integrated with other control functions of the skin treatment system. For example, one or more characteristics of the LED or other type of light source may be adjusted (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.) using the main touch screen 20 of the tower or console, using a separate device (e.g., a PC, a smart device, etc. operably coupled to the system), as desired or required. The light source features described above may be incorporated into any of the embodiments of the skin treatment system / device / method disclosed herein.

[0140] According to some embodiments, a system (e.g., a touch screen on a tower or console) can be controlled using gesture control technology. Gesture control can be incorporated into a particular system to replace or supplement one or more controls (e.g., a touch screen or other user input device or component).

[0141] In some configurations, the system includes one or more visual sensors, cameras, and / or other gesture control components along the frame of a touchscreen in a tower or console assembly. In one embodiment, four or more (e.g., four, five, six, seven or more, etc.) visual sensors are included. These sensors and / or other components can be positioned and configured to detect hand movements of an individual using the system.

[0142] According to some embodiments, the system may include a total of four gesture sensors. For example, in such a configuration, two gesture sensors are located at, along, or near the top of the tower or console (and / or other portion) of the system, one gesture sensor is located at, along, or near the left side of the tower or console (and / or other portion) of the system, and one gesture sensor is located at, along, or near the right side of the tower or console (and / or other portion) of the system.

[0143] In some embodiments, the top sensor is used to move from one step to the next (or another) step in the user interface. In some configurations, the left and right gesture sensors can be responsible for controlling another aspect of the treatment procedure, such as increasing or decreasing the amount of vacuum or suction being applied. Systems with gesture control can be customized to allow a user or group of users to select which specific gestures will cause changes in the operation of the system. Nevertheless, the use of gesture control can allow a user to adjust or otherwise modify one or more aspects of the skin treatment system without having to physically contact the system.

[0144] In some embodiments, the gesture sensors and / or other control aspects of the gesture control system are only operable during certain steps of a therapeutic procedure. In some embodiments, two or more of the gesture sensors are configured to detect the same movements to control the same aspects of the system's operation. In this manner, the system can advantageously include redundancy with respect to the gesture control system to ensure that it operates consistently and as intended during use.

[0145] Advantages of a gesture control system in association with a skin treatment system include, but are not limited to, allowing hands-free operation of the system's user interface, allowing the user to maintain control while continuing to wear gloves during the treatment procedure, improving cleanliness of the touch screen and other system components, creating a more efficient treatment process, and other benefits or advantages.

[0146] Although several embodiments and examples have been disclosed herein, the present application extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or uses of the invention, as well as modifications and equivalents thereof. Also, various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still be considered to fall within the scope of the invention. Thus, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another to form various forms of the disclosed invention. Therefore, it is intended that the scope of the invention disclosed herein should not be limited by the specific disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair study of the appended claims.

[0147] While the present invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the specific forms or methods disclosed, but rather that the present invention encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the various described embodiments and the appended claims. The methods disclosed herein need not be performed in the order described. Although the methods summarized above and described in more detail below describe specific actions taken by a practitioner, it should be understood that they may also include direction of those actions by others. Although the methods summarized above and described in more detail below describe specific actions taken by a user (e.g., a professional in some cases), it should be understood that they may also include direction of those actions by others. Thus, an action such as "moving a hand piece" or "delivering a fluid" includes "directing the movement of the hand piece" and "directing the delivery of a fluid". The ranges disclosed herein encompass all overlaps, subranges, and combinations thereof. Phrases such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," "between," and the like, include the stated numbers. Numbers followed by terms such as "about" or "approximately" include the stated numbers. For example, "about 10 mm" includes "10 mm." Terms or phrases followed by terms such as "substantially" include the stated term or phrase. For example, "substantially parallel" includes "parallel."

Claims

1. 1. A skin treatment system comprising: a manifold assembly including at least one fluid connector for securing at least one therapeutic fluid container; a primary handpiece configured to be fluidly coupled to the manifold assembly, the primary handpiece fluidly coupled to the manifold assembly using at least one fluid conduit; a flow control device disposed along the at least one fluid conduit and configured to switch a flow of treatment fluid from the at least one treatment fluid between the primary handpiece and a port configured to couple to a secondary handpiece; Equipped with A vacuum source is configured to be operably coupled to the system for selectively creating suction along the primary handpiece.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the vacuum source is configured to create suction along the port.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the flow control device comprises a valve.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the flow control device is manually controlled.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the flow control device is automatically controlled.

6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the flow control device is controlled at least in part automatically by a control module of the system.

7. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the manifold assembly comprises at least one automatic tag reader configured to obtain information from a tag disposed on the at least one treatment fluid container when the at least one treatment fluid container is secured to the manifold assembly.

8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the at least one automatic tag reader comprises an RFID reader.

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the system is configured to receive at least one command from a user using a gesture control system.

10. The system of claim 9 , wherein the gesture control system comprises at least two gesture sensors.

11. The system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one flow meter configured to measure a flow rate of fluid passing through the at least one fluid conduit.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the treatment fluid is delivered from the manifold assembly to the at least one fluid conduit using a pulsed pattern.

13. The system of claim 12 , wherein the pulsating pattern is generated by actuating an air release valve in communication with the at least one fluid conduit.

14. a tip configured to be secured to a distal end of a handpiece of a skin treatment system, a body portion having a distal end and a proximal end, the proximal end configured to be secured to the handpiece; a peripheral lip located along the distal end and defining an interior region; and a roller ball disposed within the interior region, secured to the tip, and configured to rotate when moved relative to a skin surface; at least one vacuum port terminating adjacent the roller ball within the interior region and configured to create suction or vacuum along the tip to remove spent fluid and other debris; It is equipped with The tip, wherein the at least one vacuum port communicates with a vacuum passage or conduit in the tip, the vacuum passage or conduit being configured to be fluidly coupled to a vacuum or suction source when the tip is secured to the handpiece.

15. The tip of claim 14 , wherein the roller ball extends past or protrudes relative to the peripheral lip.

16. The tip of claim 14 , wherein a plane defined by a distal end of the peripheral lip is inclined relative to a longitudinal axis of the tip and an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

17. The tip of claim 14 , wherein the peripheral lip is configured to abrade skin tissue when the tip contacts and is moved relative to skin tissue.

18. The tip of claim 17 , wherein the peripheral lip comprises a sharp edge and / or an abrasive structure.

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