Device for biostimulating phototherapy

Abstract

To provide a novel device for biostimulating phototherapy.SOLUTION: A device (1) for biostimulating phototherapy of the present invention comprises at least one first light-emitting unit (4.1, 4.2) for applying light of a first wavelength to a human body or the like, and a control unit (2) for outputting application routines. The device also comprises a module interface (3.1, 3.2) for operatively connecting the control unit to the first light-emitting unit (4.1, 4.2), and a core interface (5) for operative connection to a therapy appliance (50). The control unit (2) is designed such that it is able to receive data via the core interface (5) and, on the basis of these data, is able to control the output of an application routine via the module interface (3.1, 3.2). The present invention also relates to a therapy appliance fitted with the device according to the present invention, for physical treatment of a patient using supplementary biostimulating phototherapy.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for biostimulatory phototherapy, in particular a device for supplementary biostimulatory phototherapy in combination with a treatment device. It also relates, according to the preambles of all independent claims, to a treatment device provided with a device according to the invention for the physiotherapy of a patient using supplementary biostimulatory phototherapy, to a method for operating a device according to the invention, and to a computer program product for carrying out said method.

Background Art

[0002] Numerous applications of phototherapy have been known for quite some time. In particular, skin diseases have already been successfully treated using phototherapy means, and the treatment of psoriasis, acne, and eczema is already established. Depending on the treatment method, a light composition having specific intensities, doses, wavelengths, and bandwidths convenient for the intended therapeutic effect is selected. In principle, the treatment is successful if the treated tissue absorbs at least partially the applied radiation. In addition to the effects that can be attributed to the application of light itself in this way, the heat generated can also achieve a therapeutic effect. Systemic effects that have not been clearly explained so far from the perspective of causality may be caused by the application of light. Thus, some theories are based on the local application of long-wavelength light that can induce an increase in ATP production. Thus, for example, treatments in the range of the red and near-infrared ranges, where the long-wavelength spectral range is applied to achieve a physiological effect, are known.

[0003] On the other hand, in addition to the direct effects of phototherapy being well studied in the meantime in the immediate vicinity of the skin or the exposed skin surface, approaches that include the systemic effects of applying light are attracting increasing attention here.

[0004] Therefore, for example, there are extensive scientific studies dealing with the problem of seasonally induced mood disorders based on insufficient exposure to light in the sunlight spectrum of acute months, i.e., winter months. However, exposure only to irradiation using lighting means similar to sunlight alone seems to provide only insufficient relief. Therefore, for example, the Swedish Council on Technology Assessment in Health Care, in the study "Phototherapy for Depression, and Other Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder - Systematic Review" (SBU report, 2004, No. 166 / 2, revised chapter 9) issued in 2004, could not make a definitive statement about the effectiveness of monotherapy with light alone in the case of seasonal mood swings.

[0005] Regarding the application in the context of cosmetics for skin rejuvenation and regeneration known so far, the results are also contradictory. Nevertheless, based on many positive reports and studies in this field, there is no doubt that applying light in the spectral range with wavelengths exceeding 380 nm to the body can cause physiological, especially psychosomatic effects.

[0006] Therefore, in this field, it is necessary to provide application areas of photobiomodulation therapy that benefit from the positive effects of photobiostimulation, such as good skin tolerance and positive effects on the body's hormonal metabolism. In particular, the application in the field of low-level laser therapy and the application of light in the red and near-infrared ranges are very promising and have many physiologically desirable effects. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a device, a method, and ultimately an improved treatment device that can benefit from the positive effects of biostimulatory phototherapy and enable the efficient use of existing treatment devices. A specific object of the present invention is to provide a device having a modular design that can be used as an addition to an existing treatment device, is compatible with the underlying physical therapy, and enables biostimulatory phototherapy that achieves a synergistic effect with said treatment. Another object of the present invention is to overcome at least one drawback of known devices.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] In each case, these objects are achieved by a device for biostimulatory phototherapy, a treatment device for a patient's physical therapy, and a method for operating a device for supplementary biostimulatory phototherapy, and a related computer program product, in accordance with the characterizing part of the independent claims.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is a device for biostimulatory phototherapy. The device for biostimulatory phototherapy is preferably designed to be used in combination with a treatment device. The device comprises at least a first light-emitting unit for directly and / or indirectly applying light of a first wavelength to at least a part of the human or animal body. The device also comprises a control unit for outputting an application routine. According to the present invention, the device also comprises a module interface for operatively connecting the control unit. The device also comprises a control unit for outputting an application routine. The device according to the present invention also comprises a module interface for operatively connecting the control unit to at least one first light-emitting unit.

[0010] In a particular embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of light-emitting units.

[0011] According to the present invention, the device also includes a core interface for operative connection to a treatment device. The control unit is designed to receive data via the core interface and, based on these data, control the output of the application routine via the module interface.

[0012] In the context of the present invention, biostimulatory phototherapy can be understood as the application of light in the wavelength range between 380 nm and 1400 nm, in particular between 380 nm and 1100 nm, where a physiological effect is achieved by application to the body, or at least a part of the human or animal body, and / or the application can cause psychosomatic effects. In both mechanisms of action, the biostimulatory effect according to the present invention can be objectively obtained by blood analysis and / or subjectively obtained by interview and / or medical history. In the context of the present invention, biostimulatory phototherapy can be understood as the application of light in which a physiological effect can only be detected after a time delay. In contrast to biostimulatory phototherapy by UV radiation in which a sunburn and / or erythema effect occurs immediately or within at least a manageable period, in biostimulatory therapy, in this context, such sunburn and / or erythema effects can only be detected some time later, in particular within a period of 1 day to 14 days, via the physiological effect. Sometimes, biostimulatory phototherapy is also of a psychosomatic nature and leads to an emotional state that allows a treatment session without specific physiological values that can be measured without excessive effort in the process. In another view of biostimulatory phototherapy, a physiological effect that can be directly detected can be reliably detected, for example, detecting skin erythema that may be the result of a change in blood flow in the exposed tissue.

[0013] Without being bound by this theory with respect to the scope of the present invention, in some embodiments, biostimulatory phototherapy can be assumed to be capable of inducing a signal cascade in the body, which leads to a delayed but, depending on the situation, persistent physiological effect. Desirable effects of biostimulatory phototherapy include pain reduction, anxiety reduction, improvement in blood flow, particularly peripheral blood flow, skin smoothing, immunomodulatory / immunostimulatory effects, alertness, initiation and / or maintenance of sleep, reduction of irritation, jet lag and / or similar disorders of the circadian rhythm, varicose veins, muscle tension, muscle spasms, elimination of difficulties of tension and other forms of blunt trauma, scar tissue, menstrual pain, migraine and other forms of head and / or limb pain, healing and improvement of the structure, and can be selected from the group consisting of treatment and alleviation of arteritis, arteriolitis, Raynaud's syndrome, eczema and / or other inflammatory skin diseases, such as symptoms of acne, psoriasis and neurodermatitis, chemical burns and / or burns of the skin, depressive mood disorders, vitamin D deficiency, colds including chronic and / or acute obstructive stenosis of the nasal and / or oral and laryngeal mucosa, bronchospasm, scabies, concentration disorders and attention deficit disorders such as ADD and ADHD, excretion of the body with excessive and / or undesirable unpleasant odors, excessive sweating, bad breath, etc.

[0014] In the context of the present invention, treatment can be understood to mean a device used in the physical therapy of a patient to pursue a specific treatment goal. According to the present invention, such a treatment device is a massage device, a therapeutic bath, an ultrasonic device, an electrical stimulation device, a bath and a bathtub with corresponding treatment functions as follows, which act by physical action on the body and / or body part to be treated, for example, a massage nozzle, a vibrating plate for physical action on the body and / or a part of the body, an inhalation and steam bath device, and a UV radiator such as a sunbed. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the treatment devices listed herein represent an exemplary selection of possible treatment devices by which the device according to the present invention can achieve its purpose, without understanding that this selection is comprehensive.

[0015] With the device according to the present invention, it is possible to operate the biostimulation light therapy as an operating unit in a treatment device, and thus, a synergistic effect can be produced between the treatment device and the biostimulation light therapy, which can, in particular, be added to the treatment goal by making the whole treatment more comfortable or more easily tolerable for the person undergoing the treatment and / or by providing added value in the treatment situation. All treatment types of the treatment device mentioned here have in common that the treatment can be extended over a specific period. Therefore, it is advantageous to provide a control unit for outputting an application routine. By means of the application routine, for example, the treatment period of the treatment device can be used by the biostimulation light therapy to obtain specific treatment goals and / or additional uses that can be predefined as described above. Here, the device according to the present invention can be operatively connected directly to the treatment device, and via the core interface, the device can be connected to the treatment device, enabling data exchange. This can lead to a device according to the present invention that can adapt the output of the application routine to the treatment goal and / or the desired additional use, for example, based on the data received via the core interface.

[0016] Another advantage of the device according to the present invention for biostimulation light therapy is the modularity of the device. Using the interface, the device can be adapted to applications using various treatment devices. The latest treatment devices in the era of the "Internet of Things" are, on the one hand, operated and maintained by a control unit and, on the other hand, already have a number of interfaces for grasping treatment sequelae, recording them, and, if necessary, exchanging them with other devices and / or computers in the network. It would be easy to adapt such an interface to connect to the core interface of the device according to the present invention.

[0017] In the context of the present invention, the light-emitting unit can be understood, in its simplest design, as a unit capable of generating visible light from an electric current. In the context of the present invention, the light-emitting unit can be designed as a single light source or formed from interconnected modules.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the light-emitting unit includes lighting means selected from the group consisting of incandescent lamps, light-emitting diodes, arc lamps, and / or gas discharge lamps.

[0019] In the context of the present invention, when there is no obstacle between the emission of light and the body and the emitted light hits the body directly, direct application to at least a part of the human or animal body can occur. Thus, for example, when a reflector or other reflective surface leads to the emitted light hitting the surface to be exposed via detours, indirect application can occur.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the device according to the present invention includes a plurality of light-emitting units for directly and / or indirectly applying light of a wavelength to at least a part of the human or animal body. It is preferably to include a plurality of identical light-emitting units. For example, the device can be equipped with an array including a plurality of light-emitting diodes. In these arrays, various diodes can be installed to emit light of a specific spectrum.

[0021] Here, the desired bandwidth of the entire light-emitting unit can be composed of a plurality of diodes having different wavelengths. These spectra of the diodes can be selected under production control by doping the diodes by those skilled in the art according to the specific requirements of the phototherapy to be achieved.

[0022] In certain embodiments of the device according to the invention, the module interface is designed to operatively connect a control unit to a plurality of light-emitting units to apply light of a first wavelength directly and / or indirectly to at least a part of the human or animal body. Thus, for example, in the design according to the invention, the module interface can be used to operatively connect a plurality of identical light-emitting units to the control unit. In the context of the present invention, an operative connection can exist between the control unit and one or more light-emitting units if the signal of the control unit leads to the generation of corresponding light emission by the light-emitting unit(s).

[0023] In an alternative embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of module interfaces, for example, to operatively connect one light-emitting unit out of a plurality of light-emitting units to the control unit in each case.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, a module interface can be provided, which is used for a specific type of light-emitting unit in each case. In this embodiment, for example, all or a plurality of light-emitting units of the same type can be operatively connected to the control unit via the module interface. Here, a composite device with a plurality of different light-emitting units can be fitted with a plurality of adapted module interfaces that can be connected to a specific type of light-emitting unit in each case. Thereby, the modularity advantage of the device according to the invention can be further developed, for example, in that independently of the lighting means, the control unit can output supplementary biostimulating phototherapy as an application routine via the corresponding interface according to the treatment device.

[0025] In an embodiment according to the invention, outputting an application routine means that the control unit outputs a control signal enabling emission such as the duration, intensity, total dose, wavelength, bandwidth, etc. of an application session via the light-emitting unit, and as a result, the treatment by the treatment device is optimally supplemented by the corresponding biostimulating phototherapy.

[0026] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the application routine is designed to be emitted in the form of an optical program by at least one light-emitting unit and / or a plurality of light-emitting units as an optical spectrum, particularly over a specific period of time. The optical spectrum preferably includes light having wavelengths between 380 and 1400 nm, preferably between 380 and 1100 nm, and particularly preferably between 380 and 780 nm.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the device is housed within a housing, and at least one module interface is provided on the outer wall of the housing. This module interface is connected to the light-emitting unit and can be shifted together with the control unit with respect to the device. Thus, for example, a control unit with all other components and interfaces can be arranged separately from the light-emitting unit as a self-contained element. This can be useful, for example, when the device according to the present invention can be housed in an existing treatment device or the housing of an existing treatment device. Since the light-emitting unit can be connected to the module interface using a cable guide, it can be operatively connected to the control unit. Next, the light-emitting units can be arranged so as to enable optimal exposure of the human or animal body or at least a part thereof.

[0028] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the light-emitting unit is movably mounted via, for example, at least one slide bearing or linear drive in order to take a corresponding emission position during operation, and the emission position is then used for optimal exposure of at least a part of the human or animal body.

[0029] An additional advantage of this design of the device according to the present invention may be that it is not necessary to overly adapt the existing design of the treatment device. Next, the light-emitting unit can be directly accommodated at the application site, for example, in a corresponding space-saving manner, and the control unit can be separately accommodated in another area of the treatment device.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the light emitting unit can be operatively connected by a wireless active connection to the control unit via a module interface. Usually, for biostimulatory phototherapy which consumes a large amount of energy, in this embodiment, it may be advantageous to provide a separate electrical connection to the light emitting unit or to provide a rechargeable battery or a battery enabling at least a certain operating period to the light emitting unit.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the light spectrum consists of light of different wavelengths and relative intensities. The light spectrum preferably has a proportion of relative intensity of up to 25% of light with wavelengths between 380 and 400 nm and up to 50% of relative intensity of wavelengths between 500 and 550 nm. Thereby, for example, the light spectrum of sunrise and / or sunset can be simulated. By the corresponding composition of the spectrum, it may be possible to associate the treatment by the treatment device with a corresponding lighting atmosphere. This can be used, for example, to counteract treatment devices that would otherwise have a stimulating and / or activating effect, so that nevertheless, they have a relaxing effect in that an atmosphere that is soothed by the light spectrum is generated.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the light spectrum has a proportion of relative intensity of at least 75% of light with wavelengths between 380 and 450 nm and a proportion of relative intensity of up to 50% of light with a wavelength of 650 nm. This spectrum may be encountered, for example, in a forest with corresponding characteristic values. In the forest shade, the tree canopies overlap to form a dense forest canopy, but are broken by a few gaps. Only the light filtered by such a forest canopy reaches the ground. The bright colors are greenish to yellowish green. Such a spectrum has a positive influence on the mood, like when walking in the forest.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the optical spectrum has a spectral distribution having at least one of the following characteristics: a peak between 520 and 570 nm, preferably at 550 nm, with an intensity 2 to 5 times stronger than other ranges, and / or an intensity in the near-infrared range, i.e., having an intensity at least 4 times greater than the peak at 520 - 570 nm, preferably 550 nm, in the wavelength range between 740 nm and 820 nm.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the optical spectrum has a spectral distribution having a maximum relative intensity in the range of actinic light, where, for example, wavelengths in the range of blue and violet light may be predominant.

[0035] In certain embodiments, this spectrum has a peak at approximately 550 nm and rises to 680 nm. A corresponding adjusted optical spectrum can be configured to achieve the desired psychosomatic and / or physiological effects.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the device according to the present invention includes a light-emitting unit designed to emit light in the spectrum between 570 nm and 850 nm. The light-emitting unit is preferably designed to emit light in the red spectrum or the near-infrared spectrum.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the application routine includes applying light to at least a portion of a human or animal body over a period of time. The period is preferably determined by the control unit based on data received via the core interface. Most preferably, this period is adapted to the period of the treatment device. Biostimulatory phototherapy can also be used, for example, to make the period more enjoyable for the person being treated. For this purpose, biostimulatory phototherapy can emit, for example, a soothing night spectrum, determined by the above method, to produce a mild sedative effect on the person being treated. Next, towards the end and completion of the treatment session, the light spectrum can be adapted, for example, with an increase in the blue component, so that the person being treated transitions from the sedated atmosphere created during the treatment session to an active and energized emotional state. This application is particularly interesting for treatment devices that can provide a sedative and / or relaxation effect to the person being treated, for example, for the therapeutic action of a massage device, a bath, a sunbed, etc.

[0038] In additional or alternative embodiments, the period of biostimulatory phototherapy can be designed to be longer or shorter than the treatment period. This may be the case, for example, if the biostimulatory phototherapy is designed to facilitate participation in the treatment session or to produce a complementary effect after the treatment session. In additional specific embodiments, the period of biostimulatory phototherapy is designed to be carried out before and / or after the treatment period. The control unit is designed to output an application routine based on the treatment period, starting before the start of the treatment period and stopping after the end of the treatment period.

[0039] Surprisingly, therefore, it has been found that previous runs using an application routine that includes a spectrum with peaks mainly in the red and / or near-infrared range enhance the tanning effect of UV tanning equipment.

[0040] In certain embodiments that can be used in the context of tanning equipment, the period of the biostimulatory light therapy is designed to be particularly short, especially within the tanning equipment, so as to be able to provide the device according to the invention. This is because, as a biostimulatory effect, the person undergoing the treatment is forced to close their eyes. For example, the device outputs an application routine that emits a light spectrum by the light-emitting unit via a control unit. The light spectrum can only be endured with difficulty with open eyes so that the person undergoing the treatment experiences a blink reflex. This can be particularly useful in settings where the tanning equipment emits strong ultraviolet light to prevent eye damage.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the device includes a plurality of light-emitting units for directly and / or indirectly applying light of a wavelength to at least a part of the human body or the body of an animal, and the device is designed to include a plurality of light-emitting units that generate different wavelengths. A plurality of light-emitting units designed to be suitable for generating different biostimulatory light therapies with different wavelengths are particularly preferred.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the light-emitting unit is designed to emit pulsed light, and the pulses are preferably executed in a frequency range between 90 and 400 Hz. The pulses particularly preferably have a frequency selected from the group consisting of 97 Hz, 194 Hz, or 388 Hz.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the light-emitting unit is designed to emit low-level laser light (LLLL). For this purpose, for example, laser diodes designed to emit light of a specific wavelength can be provided. It is particularly suitable to be able to provide laser diodes of different wavelengths. Without being bound by theory, low-level light lasers can generate biophysical tissue stimulation, that is, non-excisive and non-invasive, in that cell tissue can be simulated by light and the metabolic process can be initiated.

[0044] In certain embodiments, for each specific wavelength of LLLL, a specific light-emitting unit is provided. According to the above embodiments, the plurality of light-emitting units can be operatively connected to the control unit by a common module interface or by using separate module interfaces in each case.

[0045] In certain embodiments, the control unit is designed to take additional data into account. These data are preferably selected from the group consisting of time data, weather data, patient data, device data, etc. These data can be taken into account to output an application routine. Thus, the application routine can be adapted based on time, for example, in the above manner, so that the application routine does not cause disruption of the circadian rhythm of the person receiving the treatment.

[0046] In additional embodiments, the output of the application routine can be generated by the control unit based on predefined user settings or profiles. Thus, the same applicant's Swiss patent application titled "Parametrisierte Betriebsumgebung fur Bestrahlungen [Parameterized Operating Environment for Irradiations]" with a filing date of April 3, 2019, reference P100444CH and application No. CH00454 / 19 describes a device to which the device according to the present invention can advantageously be attached. Thus, for complementary photobiostimulation therapy as well, user-specific wishes and settings can be taken into account to provide an optimal treatment.

[0047] Thus, it is particularly preferred that the device according to the present invention includes at least one date and time unit that can provide these corresponding data to the control unit. Furthermore, the device according to the present invention can receive corresponding weather data via a network connection and can also take them into account when outputting the application routine.

[0048] Patient data and device data for outputting an application routine are particularly preferably considered by the device according to the invention. The patient data can be made available, for example, via a third-party device or a network connection, and the device according to the invention can, for example, via a machine learning module, establish an optimal application routine that is synergistic with respect to the desired therapeutic effect of the treatment device based on the acquired patient data or that can also help to reduce side effects. Similarly, it is advantageous if the control unit can retrieve corresponding device data from the treatment device, as a result of which the device can, for example, adapt the application routine to the device parameters and the device shape.

[0049] For example, it is considered that the device according to the invention comprises a database of treatment devices and a control unit that can directly retrieve the corresponding driver from this database for the treatment device to perform correct biostimulation phototherapy. This embodiment is advantageous for a design with particularly high modularity, as explained at the beginning.

[0050] In a particular embodiment, the device includes an input device for acquiring input data. In that case, it is particularly preferred that the control unit is designed to also take these input data into account for outputting the application routine. This can be used, for example, for a manual override of a specific application routine. The device automatically establishes it based on the treatment achieved with the treatment device, but in any case, this form may not be necessary for the surgeon or the person receiving the treatment. It is also possible to include an output device in addition to the input device, as a result of which a corresponding visual representation of the input data and the operation of the device according to the invention can be displayed. It is particularly preferred that both the input device and the output device are touch-sensitive screens as conventionally used in smartphones or other digital devices.

[0051] In a particular embodiment, the device according to the invention also includes at least one biosensor for acquiring the patient's physiological parameters.

[0052] The device according to the invention particularly preferably comprises a non-invasive biosensor. Such a biosensor can be designed, for example, to detect the skin type of a person undergoing treatment by optical detection. It is also conceivable that such a biosensor can acquire oxygen saturation or other physiological parameters that can be acquired by optical detection. Such biosensors are commercially available and can be selected by a person skilled in the art without problems for specific applications. However, in the context of the present invention, it is advantageous if this biosensor can transmit these data to the control unit, so that they can be taken into account for outputting the application routine. In certain embodiments, these biosensors continue to be used over the duration of the biostimulatory phototherapy, and the corresponding physiological parameters of the person undergoing treatment are transmitted in real time to the control unit such that, if necessary, the control unit can directly intervene in the application routine and perform the corresponding dynamic adaptation.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the control unit is designed to be able to dynamically adapt the application routine by feedback of the measured physiological parameters.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the light-emitting unit comprises light-emitting diodes. The light-emitting unit particularly preferably comprises light-emitting diodes designed by their doping to emit light of a specific wavelength.

[0055] In a further specific embodiment, the light-emitting unit comprises monochromatic light-emitting diodes in an array. In the context of the present invention, a monochromatic light-emitting diode is understood to mean a light-emitting diode having a fixed light spectrum and capable of varying only the intensity. The LEDs used here can be selected by narrowing down the target according to the intended function / effect.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the control unit is designed to be able to output specific application routines adapted to each part of the body. For this purpose, in the device according to the invention, for example, a sensor can be provided that can acquire a part and the contour of the body by optical means. Alternatively or additionally, capacitive detection and / or impedance measurement can be used for corresponding detection. Suitable means for automatically detecting a part of the body are known to those skilled in the art.

[0057] In additional specific embodiments, the light-emitting unit includes different monochromatic light-emitting diodes in an array. In the context of the present invention, different monochromatic light-emitting diodes can be understood as a light-emitting diode array having a plurality of fixed light spectra that can each vary with respect to their intensity. Here too, the LEDs to be used can be selected in a targeted manner according to the intended function / effect.

[0058] In additional specific embodiments, the light-emitting unit includes a multicolor light-emitting diode. In the context of the present invention, a multicolor light-emitting diode is understood to mean a light-emitting diode having a "multicolor" LED that is spatially arranged next to the electrical component and includes individual monochromatic light sources whose intensities can be varied. As a result of this proximity, a mixing of the individual intensities occurs for the observer, generating a variable color perception.

[0059] Most particularly preferably, the light-emitting unit includes a light-emitting diode designed to emit light having a wavelength between 610 and 760 nm.

[0060] In the context of the present invention, this is understood to mean not that these spectra are emitted exclusively, but rather that these spectra are emitted substantially mainly, which can lead to corresponding spectra having peaks in the range mentioned, but there may also surely be light of adjacent wavelengths.

[0061] In certain embodiments, the light-emitting diode is modified by the light-emitting layer.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the device includes fixing means for fixing the device onto the treatment device. In the context of the present invention, the fixing means can be understood to mean fixing hooks, locking closures, Velcro tapes, adhesive tapes, screw closures, insert compartments, etc., which are designed to connect the device according to the invention by frictional connection to the treatment device.

[0063] In certain embodiments, the light-emitting unit is designed not to substantially emit light having a wavelength of less than 380 nm. It is particularly preferred that this means that the relative intensity of ultraviolet light in the spectrum of the light-emitting unit is less than 3%. In the context of the present invention, UV light is understood to mean light having a wavelength of less than 380 nm.

[0064] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the device comprises a network interface for connecting the control unit to a computer network and / or one or more additional devices as described.

[0065] In the case of some treatment devices, it may be advantageous to incorporate a plurality of devices according to the invention into the device. On the one hand, each of these devices can be connected to the treatment device via a core interface, and on the other hand, all the devices can also be interconnected using a network interface. As a result, for example, the entire array of devices according to the invention can be designed to output the same application routine in each case or different application routines adapted to each other so as to supplement the intended therapeutic effect of the treatment device. Similarly, each device thus connected to another device according to the invention is connected to its own treatment device, and it is naturally considered that the synergistic effect is that each treatment device functions independently of the others, but only occurs by replacing the devices.

[0066] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the device comprises a memory unit for storing data and / or application routines.

[0067] In certain embodiments of the present invention, the light-emitting unit is designed to apply high-intensity light to at least a part of the human or animal body. This light is within a specific frequency range. It is particularly preferred that this can be generated, for example, by a laser.

[0068] Using the device according to the present invention, in its basic embodiment and other mentioned preferred embodiments, it is possible to connect a treatment device to a modular biostimulatory light therapy device and achieve a synergistic effect or at least reduce the side effects of the treatment device in the process.

[0069] Accordingly, another aspect of the present invention is a treatment device for the physical therapy of a patient. The treatment device is designed to perform biostimulatory light therapy on the patient in addition to physical therapy. The treatment device according to the present invention includes a treatment unit for generating an external stimulus for treatment purposes. Furthermore, the treatment device preferably includes a device for biostimulatory light therapy and includes a device as described at the beginning.

[0070] The treatment device can include a treatment unit designed to generate an external stimulus for treatment purposes and for treatment purposes selected from the group consisting of stretching therapy, occupational therapy, sports therapy, medical training therapy, thermotherapy, massage, hydrotherapy, spa therapy, electrotherapy, ultrasound therapy, light therapy, postural drainage and / or vibration.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the treatment device includes a plurality of devices for biostimulatory light therapy as described at the beginning. Since the plurality of devices are networked, they are designed for the networked output of application routines.

[0072] An additional aspect of the present invention relates to a method for operating a device for complementary biostimulatory phototherapy. This method is preferably carried out in connection with a treatment device and is a method for operating the device described at the beginning.

[0073] The method according to the invention comprises the step of receiving data from a treatment device connected via a core interface. Furthermore, it comprises the processing of the received data for outputting an application routine. This application routine is designed to be executed by at least one light-emitting unit of a device for complementary biostimulatory phototherapy for applying light of a specific wavelength to at least a part of the human or animal body. Here, the received data includes information regarding at least one of variables such as the passage of time of a treatment session, the treatment goal of the treatment session, the number and duration of treatment sessions that have already occurred, the medical condition of the person receiving treatment before, during, and after the treatment session, and the emotional state of the person receiving treatment before, during, and after the treatment session. Here, the application routine is output based on these received data.

[0074] Additional or alternative embodiments can provide that individual treatment devices are connected in sequence to form a mesh network. This network can be constructed under common control via a wireless communication unit or interface.

[0075] An additional aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program product for executing the method according to the invention on a computer for controlling a device for biostimulatory phototherapy. This execution particularly preferably includes complementary biostimulatory phototherapy related to a treatment device.

[0076] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that all described embodiments can be implemented in embodiments of the present invention as long as they are not explicitly mutually exclusive.

[0077] The present invention will be described in more detail below based on examples and figures of specific embodiments, but without being limited thereto.

[0078] By studying these specific embodiments and figures, additional advantageous embodiments of the present invention may occur to those skilled in the art.

[0079] Based on the following figures, examples of the present invention will be described.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0080]

Figure 1

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0081] FIG. 1 schematically shows how an embodiment of a device 1 according to the present invention for biostimulating phototherapy can be designed. This arrangement is based on a treatment device 50 designed to perform physical therapy on a patient. In the case of the design shown as an example in FIG. 1, for example, a massage table, a UV tanning device or a treatment tank can be the treatment device 50. Thus, the treatment device 50 can be, for example, an underwater massage device that applies force to the body by means of massage nozzles and the massage nozzles apply a water pressure jet to a membrane on which the body is lying. Such a device for dry massage by means of a water pressure jet is known, for example, from German Patent No. 3925620 in which such a massage table is described. Such treatment devices are mainly aimed at the relaxation effect by physical therapy of the body, in particular. Thus, for example, a massage can promote blood flow through tissues or muscles, which can be useful, for example, in the case of regeneration or injury. In this example, it would be advantageous if, for example, the relaxation effect could be associated with a corresponding biostimulating phototherapy. Thus, in this particular example, the device for biostimulating phototherapy can be configured, for example, to improve the regeneration of muscle tissue after tension by exercise.

[0082] In the general structural design of FIG. 1, the device 1 for biostimulatory phototherapy comprises a control unit 2. The control unit 2 is housed within a housing 9. The housing 9 can be composed of, for example, two formed parts assembled by a plus connection, which are screwed together and made of plastic or aluminum. Further, the housing 9 can have corresponding openings to provide external access to specific elements of the device 1. Thus, in the device 1 shown by way of example, a network connection 8 is provided, which enables connection to the current connection of the device 1. However, it is also conceivable to operate the device 1 using a rechargeable battery or a battery that is inductively chargeable and does not require a connection. In this example, the network connection 8 supplies a control unit 2 that can be operatively connected to a treatment device 50 via a core interface 5. In this case, this operative connection is shown as a line. This can mean that the connection can occur via a cable, for example a network cable or a USB cable. In certain applications, for example, the operative connection can occur in that a network connection is established between the control unit of the treatment device 50 and the control unit via the core interface. It is clearly understood that this connection can also occur wirelessly via a corresponding wireless network. In the example of the present embodiment, the core interface is preferably designed to read mechanical and device data from the treatment device 50 and, as far as they are available, process and treatment data characteristic of the treatment modality used. By means of the core interface 5, the device according to the invention can also be connected to a plurality of treatment devices 50. The interface is also designed to transmit data from the device 1 to the treatment device 50 and, if necessary, to transmit operational readiness to the treatment device.

[0083] Furthermore, device 1 comprises a network interface 7 for connecting the control unit to computer networks 10.1, 10.2. This is most simply possible in that the network interface is designed to establish a network connection to a wireless network. For this purpose, network interface 7 can include, for example, a wireless local area network module to establish a wireless connection to the Internet. This module particularly preferably comprises a microchip with 2.4 GHz 802.11b / g / n WLAN capacity.

[0084] In this example, device 1 further comprises a memory unit 6 that can be accessed via control unit 2. The memory card can be a fixed component of control unit 6 in that it is designed, for example, as a working memory unit integrated into control unit 2. However, memory unit 2 can also include additional memory modules including RAM and / or other working memories. For example, a replaceable memory element such as a corresponding slot for an SD card would also be suitable. Furthermore, a USB port can be provided that can be accessed via control unit 2 and to which a corresponding stick that can be used as an external memory unit can be attached. In this example, this memory unit 2 is designed to store several application routines. The application routines can be predefined and stored such that, based on determined data, the control unit can retrieve the corresponding application routine from memory unit 2 using core interface 5, modify it and output it as necessary. However, it is also conceivable that application routine 2 is configured individually and that memory unit 2 is used to record and store the generated application routine. Thus, for example, in device 2 according to the invention, it is possible to search for which application routine was output at what time. In this example, the output of the application routine is performed via module interfaces 3.1, 3.2. These module interfaces 3.1, 3.2 are designed to convert the application routine into a lighting command for lighting units 4.1, 4.2. In this example, to continue with the above application, lighting units 4.1, 4.2 are lighting units designed to generate light in the red and near-infrared ranges. Lighting units 4.1, 4.2 can be designed, for example, to be fixed to a corresponding part of the body. Thus, for example, it would be possible to design the lighting unit as a component of an elastic hose that can be pulled over, for example, the limb to be treated. Here, while lying on treatment device 50 during an underwater massage, the affected part of the body can simultaneously be exposed to biostimulatory light therapy that clearly promotes blood flow through the affected limb.

[0085] In one embodiment according to the invention, the light-emitting units 4.1, 4.2 can also be designed to be replaceable. Therefore, it is advantageous if the lighting means of the light-emitting unit are replaceable. In this example, the light-emitting units 4.1, 4.2 can be dimmed with respect to the light intensity. Such dimmable light-emitting units are possible, for example, with LED lamps. In this example, diodes are also used. This is ideal by doping into the desired wavelength range. Here, particular attention can be paid to avoiding certain wavelengths with potential skin damage effects, i.e., for example, short-wave UV wavelengths.

[0086] Example 1 Supplementary photobiomodulation for individuals engaged in sports In addition to the above-described embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention, a sports application is described here based on a specific example of biostimulatory phototherapy associated with the above-described hydrotherapy device. Here, in particular, long-wavelength light in the visible and near-infrared ranges is used. This application can be carried out before sports activities to prevent muscle fatigue and enhance performance ability. After sports activities, this application is suitable for reducing muscle pain and promoting the regeneration of muscles and connective tissues.

[0087] For this purpose, a device according to the present invention for biostimulatory phototherapy is provided in accordance with the above criteria, which is designed to output an application routine over a period of about 20 minutes. The light emitting unit is designed to emit a spectral range of 570 nm to 850 nm. The light emitting unit is arranged over the entire length of the treatment device 50, or at least over a part of the length, i.e., accordingly, in the case of an underwater massage treatment device, on the opposite side of the lying surface, so that the corresponding light is applied substantially to the whole body or at least to the part to be stimulated. In addition to use for performance improvement and regeneration improvement, acute sports injuries can also be conservatively treated with this device in relation to the treatment device. Here, an application period of 5 to 20 minutes can be set as the application routine. Without being bound by theory, it is considered that near-infrared rays further penetrate the body with the effect of biostimulatory phototherapy, and the effect also appears in subcutaneous tissue, connective tissue, and skeletal muscle. Here, skin heat heating does not occur as compared with conventional infrared irradiation. By connecting a device for biostimulatory phototherapy to the treatment device, the treatment period and treatment intensity can be adapted to each other. Thus, for example, the application routine can include intervals in which intensive treatment periods and regeneration periods can alternate. It was quite surprising to find a synergistic effect that relaxation of physical actions via the massage table, i.e., relaxation, and at the same time an increase in the intensity of biostimulatory phototherapy can achieve positive effects over the treatment period. Alternatively, it is also possible to synchronize the intensive stage of physical therapy, i.e., the massage intensity, with the intensive stage of exposure to biostimulatory phototherapy.

[0088] Example 2 Cosmetic adjuvant biostimulatory phototherapy Similar to Example 1 above, in addition to the basic treatment method implemented by the treatment device through physical action on the person receiving treatment, supplementary biostimulatory phototherapy is implemented. The above device can be used here.

[0089] In this example, the operation is similarly carried out with light in the visible and near-infrared ranges of long wavelengths. This preferably includes wavelengths between 570 nm and 850 nm. In the examples of the present application, the light-emitting unit is designed to be directed directly at the skin surface to be cosmetically treated. For this purpose, the light-emitting units can, for example, be equipped with reflectors or be guided by optical waveguides, so that they can achieve a direct and concentrated application to specific tissues. Cosmetic treatment with light of the above wavelengths can, for example, increase the formation of structural proteins such as collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, etc. (without being bound by this theory). Thereby, the appearance of the tissue generally becomes tighter and the formation of wrinkles regresses. Therefore, such treatment can also be used, for example, to treat pigment disorders and scar tissue that can occur after tattoo removal. In connection with an underwater massage table, the overall treatment can be more useful for the person being treated or can achieve a more relaxing and more tolerant treatment.

[0090] Example 3 Application of low-power laser therapy For the implementation of the application by a light-emitting unit containing a low-level laser, such lasers are commercially available. As an example, Lastronic MED-701 is mentioned here as a suitable therapeutic laser. For the purposes of the present invention, these devices should be capable of additional connection for a modular interface. Such devices are used by physiotherapists, dentists, dermatologists, rheumatologists, and veterinarians to treat a wide range of acute and chronic diseases. Therefore, in this specification, since the selection of a specific laser treatment device should be made according to the intended treatment, the present application is only described in relation to the treatment device as the subject matter of the present invention.

[0091] In this example, these devices are arranged in the treatment area by cables and connected to the module interface and the control unit via the cables. Next, the treatment area includes additional treatment devices that can induce physical therapy. For the purposes of the example, a treatment bath in a concentrated salt solution is mentioned here. Such a bath is suitable, for example, for giving a person undergoing treatment a sense of weightlessness. Thereby, muscle tension can be relieved. Also, a high salt concentration in the bath has a skin care effect. In this example, a plurality of LLLT devices can be attached to the treatment area, i.e., the area of the treatment tank filled with the salt solution in which the person undergoing treatment moves. These devices can be fixed by clips to the corresponding parts of the body, for example, the earlobes. The purpose of these LLLT devices is to supplement the relaxing effect of the salt bath with additional acupuncture treatment by laser. For this purpose, the treatment period can be set, and an application routine adapted to this treatment period can be designed by the control unit of the device for biostimulation phototherapy. Thus, for example, the corresponding pulsed emission by laser can enable acupuncture treatment as a supplement to the bath. This can bring quite additional psychosomatic and positive effects to the relaxing ability of the person undergoing treatment.

[0092] Example 4 Stress treatment In contrast to Example 1 above, in alternative therapies targeting wellness, the light-emitting unit can be designed to emit a spectrum corresponding to sunlight. In a particular example, this spectrum can be restricted to wavelengths corresponding to natural light occurring on the forest floor. In the forest, due to the tree canopy, a significant portion of the light is filtered out. The corresponding composition of forest light clearly has a particularly relaxing effect on people's mood. In relation to a treatment device such as the massage table described at the beginning, when the massage table further generates the corresponding forest spectrum by a lamp, a particularly relaxing session can be achieved. For this purpose, for example, a light spectrum whose wavelength is restricted to correspond to that filtered by chlorophyll can be used. Furthermore, such a device can also be equipped with a speaker that generates the corresponding forest sounds to enhance the immersion of the person receiving the treatment into relaxation.

[0093] Example 5 Pretreatment / Post-treatment In this application of the teachings according to the invention, the application routine is adapted to a tanning session in a UV tanning device. In this example, the treatment unit is a UV tanning device. The device according to the invention for biostimulatory phototherapy is operatively connected via a core interface to the processor of the UV tanning device. Thereby, the control receives the device parameters as well as the treatment parameters of a given tanning session.

[0094] The control unit of the device is designed to output an application routine adapted to the tanning session. In this case, the tanning routine can be adapted, for example, to the selected period and intensity of the tanning session. In a very specific example, the application routine can be used to prepare the skin for the tanning session and can include a first spectrum with a period of 3 minutes. This pretreatment application routine can have a spectrum whose peak is mainly in the red and / or near-infrared range. Subsequently, for the UV treatment, a UV, a blue light source, and an NIR light source can be added, and their outputs can be increased stepwise until they reach the maximum output after 2 minutes (total 5 minutes).

[0095] During the tanning session itself, all the light-emitting units, the light-emitting units of the device, and the light-emitting units of the treatment device become active. In a specific example, the tanning lasts about 18 minutes. After the UV irradiation occurs, a post-treatment application routine can be output. Thereby, the UV and blue light sources are dimmed downward, while the light sources in the red and near-infrared ranges remain active as before. Alternatively, for example, a blue light source having an activation effect and a period of 5 minutes can be used. In the example described here, the red light source can operate in pulses. The pulses can occur at a frequency of 97 Hz or 194 Hz or 388 Hz.

[0096] For those skilled in the art, the selected period and the spectrum of the application routine in the context of the present invention can be adapted, on the one hand, to the desired biological stimulation and, on the other hand, to the type of session. Thus, for example, the peak region of the pretreatment application routine and / or the peak region of the post-treatment application routine, as well as their respective durations, can be adapted.

[0097] In particular, when LEDs are used as the light-emitting unit, the light spectrum can be adapted to a plurality of application sectors depending on the configuration of the diodes in the array and / or via doping and / or coating and diffusers. The output current value of the power supply unit changes in order to control the intensity of the LEDs via the control signals of the device control unit. Alternatively or additionally, the LEDs connected to form an array that can operate at a constant voltage of 24V can be modulated. This voltage varies by pulse-width modulation (PWM) with respect to its intensity. The PWM control signal is generated by a light controller circuit board that communicates with the control unit of the device via the bus system.

[0098] The present invention provides a device, a method, a therapeutic device provided with a corresponding device, and a computer program product for operating a method for improving at least one drawback of known ones. When provided in this way, due to its high modularity, it has a wide range of applications and can complement existing therapeutic devices that are often very expensive to procure. With a flexibly designed interface, various treatment modalities can be used from the perspective of the therapeutic device and also in biostimulatory phototherapy.

[0099] When the application routine of biostimulatory phototherapy is executed according to the therapeutic device, synergistic and comfortable effects are possible.

Explanation of Signs

[0100] 1... device, 2... control unit, 3.1, 3.2... module interface, 4.1, 4.2... first light-emitting unit, 5... core interface, 50... therapeutic device.

Claims

1. A device (1) for supplementary biostimulatory light therapy, in particular in combination with a treatment device (50), for biostimulatory light therapy, comprising: a. at least one first light-emitting unit (4.1, 4.2) for directly and / or indirectly applying light of a first wavelength to at least a part of the human or animal body; b. a control unit (2) for outputting an application routine; c. a module interface (3.1, 3.2) for operatively connecting the control unit to the at least one first light-emitting unit (4.1, 4.2), in particular a plurality of light-emitting units (4.1, 4.2); d. a core interface (5) for an operative connection to a treatment device (50), wherein the control unit (2) is designed to receive data via the core interface (5) and to control the output of the application routine via the module interface (3.1, 3.2) based on these data. Device (1).

2. The device according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of light-emitting units for directly and / or indirectly applying light of a certain wavelength to at least a part of the human or animal body.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the module interface is designed to operatively connect the control unit to the plurality of light-emitting units (plural possible) to directly and / or indirectly apply light of a first wavelength to at least a part of the human or animal body.

4. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the application routine is designed to be emitted by the at least one light-emitting unit and / or the plurality of light-emitting units as a light spectrum, in particular a light spectrum comprising light having wavelengths between 380 and 780 nm.

5. The light spectrum is composed of light of different wavelengths and relative intensities, in particular, the light spectrum includes the ratio of the relative intensities of up to 25% of light with wavelengths between 380 and 400 nm and up to 50% of light with wavelengths between 500 and 550 nm, or the light spectrum includes the ratio of the relative intensities of at least 75% of light with wavelengths between 380 and 450 nm and up to 50% of light with a wavelength of 650 nm. The device according to claim 4.

6. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the application routine includes applying light to at least a part of a human body or an animal body over a period of time, particularly over a period determined by the control unit based on the data received via the core interface.

7. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the plurality of light emitting units for directly and / or indirectly applying light of a certain wavelength to at least a part of a human body or an animal body are configured such that they each comprise a plurality of light emitting units generating different wavelengths, particularly different wavelengths for generating different bio-stimulating phototherapies.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of light emitting units each generating a different wavelength each comprise a separate module interface for the respective bio-stimulating phototherapy.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the control unit is designed to take into account additional data selected from the group consisting of time data, weather data, patient data, device data, etc. for outputting the application routine.

10. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising an input device for acquiring input data, and the control unit is designed to take into account the input of data for outputting the application routine.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising a biosensor, particularly a non-invasive biosensor, for acquiring physiological parameters of a patient.

12. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the light emitting unit(s) comprise light emitting diodes, particularly the light emitting unit(s) comprise light emitting diodes designed by doping to emit light of a specific wavelength.

13. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising fixing means for fixing the device on a treatment device.

14. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the light emitting unit(s) are designed not to substantially emit light with a wavelength less than 380 nm, particularly to include a relative intensity of UV radiation in their spectra of less than 3%.

15. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a network interface (7) for connecting the control unit to a computer network (10.1, 10.2) and / or one or more additional devices according to claim 1.

16. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, further comprising a memory unit (6) for storing the data and / or application routines.

17. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the light emitting unit is designed to apply high-intensity light to at least a part of a human or animal body, particularly in a specific frequency range.

18. A therapeutic device for the physiotherapy of a patient in which the therapeutic device comprises complementary bio-stimulating phototherapy, a. a treatment unit for generating an external stimulus for treatment purposes, and b. at least one device for bio-stimulating phototherapy according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. The therapeutic device according to claim 18, wherein the therapeutic device comprises a plurality of devices for bio-stimulating phototherapy according to any one of claims 1 to 17, and the plurality of devices are networked so as to be designed for the networked output of the application routine.

20. The treatment unit is a UV tanning device designed to achieve a skin tanning effect by irradiation, and the device for bio-stimulating phototherapy is designed to output an application routine via the control unit. The application routine includes a previous execution and / or a next execution, particularly, the application routine has a previous execution of 1 to 5 minutes in the spectrum of 780 nm to 1400 nm and a next execution of 1 to 5 minutes in the spectrum of 780 nm to 1400 nm. The therapeutic device according to claim 18 or 19.

21. The light emitting unit is designed to emit pulsed light, and the pulses are preferably executed in a frequency range between 90 and 400 Hz. The pulses particularly preferably have a frequency selected from the group consisting of 97 Hz, 194 Hz, or 388 Hz. The therapeutic device according to claim 20.

22. A method for operating a device for complementary bio-stimulating phototherapy in combination with a therapeutic device, particularly a method for operating a device according to any one of claims 1 to 17. a. receiving data from a treatment device connected via a core interface; b. processing the received data to output an application routine, the application routine being designed to be executed by at least one light-emitting unit for applying light of a first wavelength to at least a part of a human or animal body; and c. the received data includes information regarding at least one of variables including the passage of time of a treatment session, the treatment goal of the treatment session, the number and duration of any treatment sessions that have already occurred, the medical condition of the person receiving treatment before, during, and after the treatment session, and the emotional state of the person receiving treatment before, during, and after the treatment session; A method, characterized in that the application routine is output based on the received data.

23. A method for operating a device for supplementary bio-stimulating light therapy in combination with a treatment device, the treatment device comprising a treatment unit that is a UV tanning device designed to achieve a skin tanning effect by irradiation; The method comprises: a. outputting an application routine including a step of applying light in the form of a light program by at least one and / or a plurality of light-emitting units as a light spectrum, and applying light to at least a part of a human or animal body over a period of time; and b. this period includes the execution before and the next execution of the treatment period.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the application routine includes a step of applying a light spectrum during the previous execution and / or the next execution, the peak of which is mainly in the red and / or near-infrared range.

25. A computer program product for executing the method according to claim 22 when executed on a computer for controlling a device for supplementary bio-stimulating light therapy, in particular a device for supplementary bio-stimulating light therapy in combination with a treatment device.

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