Irradiation module, device and method for applying medical and cosmetic radiation

Abstract

The present invention relates to an irradiation module for use in an apparatus (1) for applying medical or cosmetic radiation, comprising a plurality of LEDs arranged on a carrier. The present invention also relates to an apparatus for irradiating a user (10) with medical or cosmetic radiation, comprising a plurality of irradiation modules (40) for applying medical or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing (20; 30). The present invention further relates to a method for irradiating a user (10) with medical or cosmetic radiation, comprising a plurality of irradiation modules (40) for applying medical or cosmetic radiation selected from the group including fluorescent tubes, LEDs, organic LEDs, and high-pressure lamps. To provide an irradiation module, apparatus, and method capable of achieving improved irradiation results according to the present invention, a first group of first LEDs emitting radiation in the UVA spectrum and a second group of second LEDs emitting radiation in the UVB spectrum are arranged on a carrier.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an irradiation module for use in an apparatus for the application of medical or cosmetic radiation, comprising a plurality of LEDs arranged on a carrier.The present invention also relates to an apparatus and method for the application of medical or cosmetic radiation, comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for the application of medical or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing. [Background technology]

[0002] Devices for the application of medical and cosmetic radiation, particularly in the form of solariums, for exposing a user to ultraviolet radiation, particularly in the UVA and UVB spectrum, in order to tan the skin, are known in practice. The irradiation modules in this case, however, are configured as low-pressure fluorescent tubes or high-pressure lamps, which must be accommodated in relatively large containers and take up a considerable amount of space. Furthermore, fluorescent tubes and high-pressure lamps hardly allow for customized adjustment to the desired irradiation result, and in particular, these known devices cannot be optimally customized for different users, which means that the irradiation result will differ between thin and obese people. Finally, these known devices consume a lot of energy.

[0003] In the field of skin irradiation, assemblies emitting medical and cosmetic radiation are used, which induce photobiological effects in the irradiated individual. In this case, the individual's skin is exposed to medical and cosmetic radiation, but certain wavelengths of radiation prevent it from penetrating deeper into the body. These effects include, for example, skin tanning, as well as additional physiological and psychological effects resulting from irradiation. Medical and cosmetic radiation includes ultraviolet (UV), visible (VIS), and near-infrared (NIR) radiation. UV radiation in this case has wavelengths in the 100 nm to approximately 380 nm spectrum, VIS radiation in this case has wavelengths in the 380 nm to approximately 780 nm spectrum, and NIR radiation in this case has wavelengths in the 780 nm to 1400 nm spectrum. The aforementioned spectrums may overlap. Depending on the medical and cosmetic application, irradiation may be focused within some of the aforementioned spectrums. For this purpose, the medical / cosmetic radiation emitting assembly can be assigned to a dedicated individual wavelength, for example UV radiation generated by a beam tube. However, the use of a beam tube is not mandatory. Due to its therapeutic effect, medical / cosmetic radiation can also be considered medical / cosmetic radiation therapy.

[0004] The spectrum of UVA radiation ranges from approximately 380 nm to 315 nm, while the spectrum of UVB radiation ranges from approximately 315 nm to 280 nm. Between 280 nm and approximately 100 nm is the spectrum of UVC radiation, which can cause physical harm to humans.

[0005] Devices for influencing the skin of a user are known in practice, for example for use in tanning salons, in which the person to be irradiated can lie on a cover forming a reclining surface or edge surface for the purpose of tanning the skin by pigmentation, and the UV radiation-emitting assembly is usually arranged under the cover with several beam tubes, in particular fluorescent tubes, and the cover can be removed or pivoted to access the beam tubes. Such tanning devices also usually have a further modular unit with further beam tubes and a second cover that can be pivoted together relative to the person to be irradiated so that the person can be tanned from both sides.

[0006] So-called stand-up tanning booths are also known in practice, in which the person to be irradiated does not lie horizontally on a cover, but is surrounded by an assembly that emits UV radiation in a vertical position, in which the beam tube extends in particular vertically. Summary of the Invention

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide an illumination module or device and an illumination method, respectively, by which improved illumination results are achieved.

[0008] This object is achieved according to the invention by an illumination module or device and an illumination method having the features of the independent claims.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a radiation module for use in a device for applying medical and cosmetic radiation is provided, the radiation module comprising a plurality of LEDs arranged on a carrier, with a first group of LEDs emitting radiation in the UVA spectrum and a second group of LEDs emitting radiation in the UVB spectrum. The mixed arrangement of LEDs from the UVA and UVB spectrums achieves beneficial irradiation results, particularly in which the LEDs in the UVB spectrum have a much higher photobiological effect than the LEDs in the UVA spectrum. The irradiation modules can be arranged in various locations within the device for irradiation, for example, in an area for irradiating the face, an area for irradiating the torso, and / or an area for irradiating the shoulders.

[0010] In this case, the first LED for UVA and the second LED for UVB are formed as separate chips mounted on a carrier, and the two LEDs also differ in terms of their emission characteristics. In this case, the LEDs are also contacted differently, with the first group of LEDs preferably operating together and the second group of LEDs also operating together. However, it is also possible to operate the LEDs individually, or even to provide a first group of multiple first LEDs and a second group of multiple second LEDs.

[0011] The carrier is conveniently formed as a flat plate, e.g., rectangular, which allows a reflector with an axis perpendicular to the carrier to be easily arranged downstream. Alternatively, the carrier can be formed curved so that the LEDs are arranged on the concave or alternatively convex side of the carrier, allowing the entire illumination module to follow the shape of the human body. Alternatively, the carrier can be formed as a folded part, with the LEDs at an angle to each other on the folded flat part.

[0012] The carriers can also be of fairly large dimensions, for example, so that essentially only one carrier needs to be placed in each device's receptacle. The shape of the carrier can be designed as desired depending on the intended application. Particularly useful shapes are obtained, for example, when the carrier is formed in the shape of an annular segment or as part of a polygon, so that the tube at least partially fits the user. In this case, the LEDs are arranged inside the carrier.

[0013] Advantageously, the first LEDs represent 50% to 90% of the total of the first and second LEDs, and the second LEDs represent 50% to 10% of the total of the first and second LEDs. Thus, at least one-tenth and not more than half of the LEDs emit radiation in the UVB spectrum as the second LEDs, which is advantageous for a significantly higher level of photobiological effectiveness. Ideally, the proportion of the first LEDs is 70% to 80% and the proportion of the second LEDs is 20% to 30%.

[0014] When the first and second LEDs are provided on the carrier in equal amounts, it is particularly advantageous if they alternate in a checkerboard pattern. Alternatively, rows and / or columns may comprise alternating first and second LEDs.

[0015] The number of LEDs arranged on the carrier can easily reach several hundred LEDs, depending on the size of the carrier. According to one advantageous embodiment, the number of LEDs arranged on the carrier is selected to be between about 10 and about 600 LEDs, preferably between 20 and 60 LEDs. Since LEDs generate significant heat, it is advantageous to connect the carrier to a heat transfer plate, which is cooled by external means, so that the number of LEDs arranged on the carrier, which is cooled by a cooling device, is preferably, for example, 40.

[0016] Preferably, 10 or 20 LEDs or an integer multiple thereof are arranged on a carrier, with 2, 4 or an integer multiple thereof, respectively, being formed as the second LED, which results in a good mixing of the radiation generated from the two spectra of the two groups, thereby resulting in a beneficial tan for the user.

[0017] Advantageously, the LEDs arranged on the carrier are only the first and second groups of LEDs, such that the sum of the first and second LEDs is the total number of LEDs emitting UV radiation, and the second LEDs represent 20% of this total.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the LEDs are arranged on the carrier in an area of ​​4 rows and 5 columns, with the central column being formed by the second LED and the remaining columns being formed by the first LED. This results in a suitable ratio of 80:20 or, in the case of 20 LEDs, 16:4, which achieves beneficial illumination characteristics. It is possible to arrange several illumination modules side by side, so that the entire surface area is covered by an illumination module.

[0019] The distance between adjacent LEDs in the same column or row is advantageously constant, preferably between 1 cm and 4 cm, particularly preferably between 1.25 cm and 2.25 cm, ideally between 1.5 cm and 2 cm, which allows the reflector to be provided to be dimensioned large enough to homogenize the radiation emitted by the LEDs and thus achieve a uniform illumination result.

[0020] Advantageously, the first LED and / or the second LED are provided with a primary optics of silicone lens design, which means that the radiation of the LED is emitted essentially in the desired direction. The primary optics bundles the radiation emitted by the LED, thus preventing unnecessary losses. Instead of a silicone lens, the primary optics can also be realized in other ways.

[0021] Since the photobiological effect of the second LED is significantly greater despite the second LED's lower level of efficacy, the second LED is preferably operated at a lower power level than the first LED, in particular to effectively limit thermal injuries to the irradiated subject.

[0022] The carrier is preferably connected to a heat transfer plate to dissipate heat generated by the operation of the LEDs. The heat transfer plate is preferably connected to a heat exchanger via cooling lines, which may be located separately from the heat transfer plate depending on the installation situation. For this purpose, the heat transfer plate preferably has channels or capillaries through which a fluid delivered to the heat exchanger via the cooling lines can circulate and cool the plate. The fluid may be a gas, a gas-liquid mixture, or a liquid. The heat transfer plate may further include ventilation slots that allow ambient air to cool it.

[0023] In one preferred refinement, each LED is assigned a reflector, which is preferably connected to the carrier, so that a more uniform radiation emission is achieved for each LED. Reflectors are particularly suitable when a uniform distribution of radiation cannot be achieved by the primary optics.

[0024] The reflector advantageously extends tapered from the LED and is preferably arranged on a common modular unit that allows the entire modular unit to be connected to the carrier. In this case, the axis of the reflector is advantageously adjusted to the distance between the LEDs so that the modular unit can be centered on each of all the LEDs on the carrier. In this case, it is advantageous for the first LED and the second LED to have the same reflector so that the first LED and the second LED can be arranged in different positions without the need to design the modular units differently.

[0025] Advantageously, the modular unit with the reflector, the carrier and the heat transfer plate are connected to one another so that they can be used together in an apparatus for irradiation. The connection is preferably carried out by threaded screws, although it is also possible to rivet the aforementioned parts together or to connect them to one another in another way.

[0026] According to a particularly preferred refinement, the modular unit for the reflectors has at least one recess for a third LED emitting visible radiation without a reflector. For this purpose, for example, an LED emitting red light can be arranged in the area surrounded by the four reflectors, so that the third LED emitting visible radiation can be used in the irradiation device for simultaneous or sequential application of phototherapy.

[0027] If the illumination module does not have a reflector, a third LED emitting visible radiation can also be placed on the carrier. The third LED does not need to be taken into account when determining the ratio between the first and second LEDs. Alternatively, the third LED can be equipped with a reflector, which can be the same reflector used for the first and / or second LEDs, but this is not required.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the heat transfer plate is connected to the cooling line by a plug connection. This allows the modular unit of the heat transfer plate, carrier, and reflector to be easily replaced even within the irradiation device, and carriers with different first and second LEDs can be used depending on the application. Furthermore, in this case, the carrier can be easily replaced if the LED is damaged or cannot be used rationally due to its characteristics.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment, one of the cooling wires can also be formed as an electrical conductor for contacting the LEDs arranged on the carrier, so that in addition to replacing the carrier, electrical contact is also realized at the same time as a kind of plug solution.

[0030] In a useful refinement, the modular unit with reflectors comprises a cover disk with several circular recesses corresponding to the number of reflectors, the disk preferably being made of acrylic glass, the circular recesses in this case being aligned with the axes of the reflectors. shaft The disc is formed on a substrate and includes a fluorescent layer on its inner periphery, which is excited to light up upon excitation by radiation emitted by the first and / or second LEDs. This method advantageously allows a user exposed to radiation from the irradiation module to distinguish whether the first and / or second LEDs, which emit in the non-visible range, are actively emitting radiation. If the disc is provided with a third LED, the disc is preferably screwed together with an assembly including a heat transfer plate, a carrier, and a modular unit, so that a drilled hole is also provided for the passage of visible radiation emitted by the third LED. The fluorescent layer can be selected to light up in a color that has a phototherapeutic effect on the human body.

[0031] A beneficial use of the illumination module is provided in a unit for tanning the shoulders.A further beneficial use of the illumination module is provided in a unit for tanning the face.A further beneficial use of the illumination module is provided in an apparatus for tanning the entire body of a user, particularly the torso, arms, and legs.

[0032] According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for applying medical and cosmetic radiation is characterized in that it contains at least one irradiation module as described above. It is possible to arrange multiple irradiation modules in the apparatus, adjacent to each other, surrounding a tunnel or tube in which a user can stand or lie, in particular to tan the skin by exposure to radiation.

[0033] The illumination module is preferably small in size and lightweight so as to be easy to install and / or replace, and the device then preferably provides means for the electrical connection of the illumination module, which can be used and connected or disconnected or removed depending on the intended application.

[0034] The device advantageously has a row of plug-in slots to which not only the aforementioned irradiation module but also other modules, such as one with a third LED from the visible spectrum, can be connected. In this way, the device can be operated as a tanning device when the aforementioned irradiation module or other irradiation modules are used, or as a phototherapy device when a module with a third LED from the visible spectrum is connected. Thanks to its modularity, the device can also be easily adapted to suit the user. To this end, the controller preferably detects the module being used and ensures that the module operates in an acceptable manner. In this way, defective modules can be easily replaced and replaced.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for applying medical or cosmetic radiation, the apparatus comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for applying medical or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing, wherein at least one of the irradiation modules can be adjusted in the direction of the user, either individually or together with the other irradiation modules in the housing. This means that the irradiation modules, and thus the apparatus, can be adapted to the body contours, enabling irradiation of a user positioned within the apparatus in an energy-efficient manner, particularly to the user's body shape. For tall or stocky users, the irradiation modules are retracted to prevent skin burns or excessive exposure doses. For small or slender users, the irradiation modules are advanced to achieve optimal irradiation results. In addition to the generally axial adjustability in the direction of the user's body, the irradiation modules can also be pivotally arranged and thus moved back and forth, thereby enabling uniform irradiation results. At the same time, the irradiation modules have the ability to irradiate hard-to-reach areas, such as shoulders or body cavities, at various angles, thereby tanning them.

[0036] The irradiation modules in this case are optionally adjusted pneumatically, hydraulically, or mechanically, for example by means of a toothed rack or a spindle / spindle nut system; since the device is already powered by electrical energy, it is advantageous for the drive to be provided with an electric motor. If multiple irradiation modules are to be moved toward the user's body, the transitions between adjacent modules are advantageously sealed by a seal, for example a membrane coating, to prevent difficulties during cleaning. However, it is also possible to move the entire housing as a whole after the tube or tunnel has been formed, and the housing is then positioned relatively close to the body. The irradiation modules are then adjusted in the housing in the direction of the user's body to achieve beneficial irradiation results with low energy consumption by optimizing the distance.

[0037] To advantageously allow three-dimensional adjustment of the illumination module, the illumination module is advantageously formed, for example, of a honeycomb-shaped carrier forming a hexagonal surface with adjacent honeycomb bodies connected respectively at each edge. Alternatively, a hexagonal carrier may be provided on a carrier of a different shape in order to achieve a spherical curvature.

[0038] According to another alternative embodiment, the carrier with the LEDs can also be attached to a three-dimensional surface that allows for flexible adjustment, whereby the surface as a whole is made movable rather than individual illumination modules.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, a means for measuring the distance between the user and at least one illumination module is provided, which is conveniently arranged on the housing so that the distance between the user and the housing can be measured at a feature point or at a number of points that form the body contour. The means for measuring the user's distance can be optical, but it is also possible to provide a scale, such as a grid, on the housing, which allows the measurement of the user's body and thus the determination of the distance from each illumination module. The scale can also be determined by the measuring means in an image reflected by the housing.

[0040] The irradiation module can then be advantageously adjusted in the direction of the user so that it instead maintains a preset optimal distance from the user. This distance may be predetermined for safety reasons and allows a particularly beneficial result of the radiation while simultaneously maintaining the limits of irradiation and the lowest possible energy consumption. The irradiation module in this case advantageously operates at a preset power level, and the irradiation result in this case is substantially optimized by adjustment to the user's body.

[0041] Adjacent irradiation modules are advantageously sealed against the penetration of contaminants by flexible membranes. In particular, if individual irradiation modules are moved by different distances, there is a risk that gaps will form between adjacent modules, through which contaminants can penetrate. For this purpose, a seal must be selected that is resistant to medical and cosmetic radiation, especially its UV fraction.

[0042] Preferably, however, the illumination module is moved within the housing so that a tight seal is possible due to the housing being made from acrylic glass.

[0043] The irradiation modules are preferably rectangular, in particular square, in which case the surface can be formed in a simple manner from a plurality of irradiation modules. Alternatively, the irradiation modules may be formed in a honeycomb or circular shape or may have a spherical surface, which allows the radiation to be directed particularly efficiently towards the user.

[0044] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for irradiating a user with medical or cosmetic radiation, the device comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for irradiating medical or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing, the irradiation modules having a plurality of LEDs emitting radiation in the UVA and / or UVB spectrum, the LEDs being operable individually or together in the same spectrum, particularly as groups of LEDs, to irradiate at a definable intensity. This advantageously allows for point-by-point or surface-wide irradiation of the user with medical or cosmetic radiation, in that only the LEDs necessary for the desired irradiation are used. This not only allows for energy savings and protection of the user's body, but also allows for specific programs to be set for irradiation by activating the LEDs individually or in groups, for example, by using the LEDs in a pulsed manner or by achieving exposure to different radiation intensities depending on the area of ​​the body.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the surface of the device occupied by the user is detected, and the LEDs assigned to the unoccupied surface are optionally operated with reduced power or not at all. Thus, for example, the LEDs or radiation modules assigned to the foot area can be activated or switched off depending on different body sizes. For tall people, irradiation power is needed in the foot area, while this radiation is useless for smaller people. This advantageously saves energy and reduces heat generation in the device. In a corresponding manner, the LEDs or radiation modules can be activated for people of different widths.

[0046] In a particularly advantageous refinement, the device has an input unit, particularly a touch display, that can be used to select or define areas of the user's body to be illuminated at reduced intensity, and the controller responds by reducing the power of the LEDs or illumination modules. In particular, point-by-point LEDs allow for clearer definition of areas, which is difficult with illumination modules configured as fluorescent tubes. Furthermore, the LEDs can be operated with a relatively linear characteristic, allowing for virtually infinitely variable adjustment of the LED illumination intensity.

[0047] According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for irradiating a user with medical or cosmetic radiation is provided, the apparatus comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for irradiating medical or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing, and a means for detecting the user to be irradiated, which can activate the irradiation modules or individual radiation sources of the irradiation modules in response to the detected characteristics of the user. This preferably provides an apparatus that characterizes the position and characteristics of the user's body and adjusts the radiation power of the irradiation modules to match the body's position and / or characteristics, particularly its dimensions. This preferably allows potentially unnecessary radiation sources to be operated at reduced or no power, thereby reducing energy consumption. Furthermore, the radiation modules can be optimally adjusted with respect to their distance from the body, which is typically about 20 cm to 30 cm from the body surface. Depending on the shape of the user's body, e.g., whether thick or thin, the irradiation modules are operated at the required intensity and / or distance from the body to achieve individually optimized irradiation for each user. In contrast to solutions known from the prior art, in which the irradiation module is configured based on an envelope sphere of the body that does not extend beyond the body in order to prevent irradiation harmful to health, this device allows an individual adaptation to the body, in particular in such a way that a sufficient irradiation dose is provided to thin people whose distance from the virtual envelope sphere is greater.

[0048] Advantageously, a sensor is provided to detect the user's body to detect the user to be illuminated. In a simple embodiment, this can be a camera that compares images of the device with and without the user and, starting from there, determines which illumination modules or LEDs are unnecessary. The camera can be configured as a CCD line scan camera to prevent the user's image from being misused. Alternatively, the camera can be configured specifically for radiation emitted by the illumination modules so that the camera detects illumination modules or LEDs that are not blocked by the user's body. To enable better identification of individual modules or LEDs, they can be operated at a specific frequency that allows the camera's evaluation circuitry, located in the controller, to clearly assign the illumination modules or LEDs to specific locations.

[0049] According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for irradiating a user with medical or cosmetic radiation is provided, the apparatus comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for irradiating medical or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing, wherein sensors are provided for detecting radiation emitted by the irradiation modules, and the irradiation modules can be operated by a controller with modified operating parameters in response to deviations of the detected radiation by a definable value to adjust the emitted radiation to a definable value. This preferably provides an apparatus that dynamically adapts the irradiation modules to a predefined radiation power. This prevents exceeding the maximum permissible radiation intensity for the user, potentially due to an overly strong irradiation module adjustment. Such excessively high radiation intensity can also occur because individual radiation sources of the irradiation modules, particularly LEDs, change their radiation characteristics over the operating time and atypically irradiate at a higher intensity rather than a lower intensity. The associated exceedance of the user's radiation dose is reliably detected by the sensor and prevented by adapting the emitted radiation downward to a definable value. The converse case may also occur, where an irradiation module does not reach the definable value of radiation due to aging or other influences. In this case, the controller allows for correction of the radiation, ensuring the desired irradiation result each time. In contrast to prior art solutions, in which the correction of the irradiation module's operation is carried out via experimentally determined characteristic curves of the radiation characteristics, adjustments are possible dynamically and practically before or after each irradiation process, and even during the irradiation process. In this way, deviations that occur, particularly over the course of a day, can be conveniently corrected. For example, in some devices, it has been observed that after a longer downtime, the radiation intensity is lower than the average radiation intensity subsequently emitted. At the same time, it has been found that the radiation intensity also depends on the ambient temperature of the device, resulting in different values ​​depending on the device's environmental controls. Finally, it has been found that experimentally determined characteristic curves only allow for a rough fit to power losses over time, and the variance is large enough that the individual radiation doses generated are either too high or too low.In particular, there is the problem that in practice not all illumination modules are replaced, but only a few, such as beam tubes that are already flickering at an optically perceptible level. In this case, when the controller matches the characteristic curve of the new beam tube, the remaining old fluorescent tubes are powered too weakly, and vice versa. Dynamic adjustment of the radiation intensity allows results that correspond to definable values ​​of radiation even in the case of such a mixture of illumination modules.

[0050] According to a first preferred embodiment, the illumination module is operated at a constant voltage, and the illumination module is then operated by pulse width modulation, whereby if a deviation is detected, the pulse width can be adapted and the radiation intensity of the illumination module can be set.

[0051] According to another preferred embodiment, the illumination module is operated with a constant current and the illumination module is activated by varying the current strength, which allows the radiation intensity to be continuously varied to a definable value.

[0052] The features of the devices and illumination modules described above can also be readily combined in a common device, in particular a device combining several of the features described above is the subject of the present disclosure.

[0053] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for applying medical or cosmetic radiation, particularly in the aforementioned device, comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for applying medical or cosmetic radiation, selected from the group consisting of fluorescent tubes, LEDs, organic LEDs, and high-pressure lamps, and the irradiation modules optionally emitting only a portion of the spectrum of the medical or cosmetic radiation, in particular only the aforementioned portion of the spectrum of UVA radiation and / or the aforementioned portion of the spectrum of UVB radiation. In this case, a sensor is provided for detecting the radiation emitted by the irradiation modules, and the irradiation modules are operated by a controller with modified operating parameters in response to deviations of the detected radiation by a definable value to adapt the emitted radiation to a definable value of radiation. This allows for simple and reliable adjustment of the radiation intensity of the individual radiation sources of the individual radiation modules or of the entire device, ensuring that the user is not exposed to a higher radiation dose than desired or tolerated, but at the same time ensuring that the radiation dose is sufficient to achieve the irradiation effect, typically skin tanning.

[0054] Advantageously, the sensor has a high sensitivity to radiation in the UV spectrum, which, in contrast to visible radiation, is also a source of danger for the human body in the case of long-term exposure, thereby ensuring that the spectrum of medical and cosmetic radiation, which is particularly associated with the risk of burns, is not set incorrectly.

[0055] Conveniently, at least one further sensor is provided, optionally detecting the same spectrum as the first sensor or a different spectrum.

[0056] Preferably, one or more of the illumination modules are assigned their own sensors, which can be switched on and off individually so that a specific radiation intensity is detected by the sensor for each module. For example, it is possible to adjust individual LEDs to the radiation intensity of the illumination module that includes them. However, to prevent deviations from definable radiation values, it is preferable to adjust the entire illumination module, which is usually sufficient since similar types of LEDs are used.

[0057] Depending on the skin sensitivity, it is possible to activate the illumination modules or LEDs of the illumination modules in individual segments corresponding to body areas in order to adjust the illumination result, which is usually skin tanning. The skin sensitivity can be detected before or during tanning with specific detectors.

[0058] The device may be provided with multiple sensors capable of reliably monitoring respective areas corresponding to areas of the user's body.

[0059] According to one aspect of the present invention, particularly as described above, there is provided a method for irradiating a user with medical or cosmetic radiation, the method comprising a plurality of irradiation modules for irradiating medical or cosmetic radiation, selected from the group consisting of fluorescent tubes, LEDs, organic LEDs, and high-pressure lamps, the irradiation modules optionally emitting only a portion of the spectrum of the medical or cosmetic radiation, and a user sensor for detecting a physical characteristic of the user, wherein the irradiation modules can be operated by a controller in response to the physical characteristic detected by the user sensor with operating parameters that adapt the emitted radiation to the detected physical characteristic. This allows the user sensor to detect user-specific parameters and, in response to recorded data, to tailor the device, particularly the irradiation modules, to the user and their physical characteristics. This preferably ensures that irradiation can be efficiently designed and that device settings that are harmful to the user are prevented. The user sensor allows the method to take user-specific information, such as the user's body dimensions and specific characteristics, into account, thereby enabling personalized irradiation. The user's individual setting parameters can preferably be stored in the device's or the user's memory and downloaded as needed.

[0060] According to a first preferred embodiment of the method, the user sensor determines body characteristics selected from the group including body height, width, and circumference, and the position and / or intensity of the illumination module are adapted to the detected characteristics. The position of the illumination module can be changed by adjusting it in a direction towards the body, and the means for adjusting the controller is advantageously moved according to a defined distance from the body. The intensity of the illumination module can be set by the controller, and particularly in the embodiment of the illumination module as a carrier with multiple point-by-point LEDs, a particularly effective adaptation to the body characteristics is achieved.

[0061] According to a further preferred embodiment, the user sensor detects the location and / or type of skin characteristics on the user's body selected from the group consisting of tattoos, burns, wounds, birthmarks, scars, vitiligo, pigmentation disorders, sunburn, and skin type, and the position and / or intensity of the irradiation module are adapted to the detected skin characteristics. Thus, for example, it is possible to compensate for increased absorption of medical and cosmetic radiation due to tattoos or birthmarks by reducing the radiation intensity of the irradiation module, or preferably the LEDs provided therein. Similarly, to ensure damage to the skin or subcutaneous tissue, areas within the skin where pigmentation tanning cannot be achieved, particularly due to scars, vitiligo, pigmentation disorders, or wounds, are also irradiated with reduced power. Finally, the user sensor can also detect skin type and tan level, particularly skin pigmentation, and adjust the irradiation module based on the detected skin characteristics. If the user sensor detects the skin on the user's body multiple times, it is also possible to ascertain the user's skin type and any tan level.

[0062] Preferably, the illumination module comprises an LED that is at least temporarily operated in a pulsed manner, the pulsing of the LED making it possible to stimulate a photobiological effect in the user's body.

[0063] The aforementioned method according to the invention can also be formed as a method for operating an apparatus for irradiation, in particular the aforementioned apparatus, such that a method for operating an apparatus for irradiation having the features of the aforementioned method is obtained.

[0064] Further advantages, features, characteristics and refinements of the present invention emerge from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments, as well as from the dependent claims.

[0065] The invention will now be explained in more detail by way of preferred exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0066] [Figure 1]1 is a schematic side view of a preferred exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the present invention for irradiation; [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded view of an illumination module according to the present invention installed in the device of FIG. 1; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0067] 1 shows an apparatus for irradiating a user, shown diagrammatically as the user's body 10, with medical and cosmetic radiation, comprising a lower housing part 20 and an upper housing part 30, which are articulated together along an axis A. The upper housing part 30 can be pivoted upwards to allow free access to the user 10, and can be pivoted downwards so that the housing parts 20, 30 surround a tunnel-like tube 2 in which the user 10 lies.

[0068] The housings 20, 30 are sealed in acrylic glass, and the lower housing 20 is formed with a reclining surface 21 made of acrylic glass. The reclining surface 21 can be equipped with a silicone mat connected to the reclining surface 10, which is flexible and provides a comfortable tactile sensation to the person 10. The acrylic glass and the silicone mat are each transparent to at least a portion of medical and cosmetic radiation.

[0069] The lower and upper storage compartments 20 and 30 are each provided with an illumination module 40 that faces the tube 2 within the storage compartment 20, 30. The illumination modules 40 are rectangular and arranged in a row within the lower storage compartment 20 parallel to the reclining surface 21. Additionally, an illumination module 40 capable of illuminating the person 10 is also provided in the vertical portion 22 of the lower storage compartment 20, which is substantially perpendicular to the reclining surface 21. A plurality of illumination modules 40 are arranged in a row within the upper storage compartment 30, pressed against each other. The illumination modules arranged in a row are angled relative to adjacent rows so as to trace the semicircular contour of the upper storage compartment 30 within the storage compartment 30. This angle is between 5° and 25°, preferably approximately 10°, depending on the radius and size of the illumination modules.

[0070] A shoulder tanning device 50 for irradiating in particular the head and shoulders of the user 10 is arranged at the upper end of the tube 2, within which two further irradiation modules 40 are arranged.

[0071] The illumination module 40 is connected to the controller S of the device 1 .

[0072] 2 shows an exploded view of the control module 40. The figure shows a plurality of LEDs 42, 43, a total of 20, mounted on a carrier 41, which are contacted with an electrical energy source via the carrier 41. It is also possible to provide the LEDs in a different quantity and / or arrangement than the 4x5 area shown in the figure.

[0073] The figure shows that a total of six LEDs 43 that emit radiation in the UVB spectrum are arranged on the carrier 41, while the remaining ten LEDs 42 emit radiation in the UVA spectrum.

[0074] A modular unit 44 having 20 identically formed reflectors 44a is provided upstream of the carrier 41 with the LEDs 42, 43, the size of the holes in the reflectors 44a matching the LEDs 42, 43. For this purpose, the reflectors 44a are connected to a disk 44b with perforations for the reflectors 44a in an area spaced apart from the LEDs 42, 43 so that the modular unit 44 can be handled like a component.

[0075] An annular disk 45 having a plate-like body with a number of circular recesses 45a corresponding to the number of reflectors 44a is arranged upstream of the modular units 44, the recesses being internally coated with phosphor. It is clear that when the LEDs 42, 43 are excited to the point where they emit radiation, this radiation excites the phosphor in the ring 45a and the LEDs 42, 43 also emit radiation, so that illumination of the ring 45a occurs in the visible range.

[0076] A heat transfer plate 46 formed as a plate-like body for dissipating heat generated during operation of the LEDs 42, 43 is arranged on the side of the carrier 41 facing away from the LEDs 42, 43. For this purpose, the heat transfer plate 46 is connected via a first cooling line 47 and a second cooling line 47 to a cooling body 48 formed as a heat exchanger, with a circulating cooling fluid being provided between the heat transfer plate 46 formed with a cavity, the first cooling line 47, the cooling body 48 and the second cooling line 47. Cooling of the heat transfer plate 46 can be carried out in particular by a phase change of the cooling fluid between the heat transfer plate 46 on one side and the cooling body 48 on the other side.

[0077] It should be understood that although the illumination modules 40 installed in the housing 20 or housing 30 are all structurally similar, the illumination modules may also be constructed and / or operated differently depending on the light sensitivity of particular portions of the user 10.

[0078] A first sensor 61 is provided in the upper housing 30 to detect the body characteristics of the user 10, in particular the height, width and circumference of the body, as well as the position of the arms and legs. The radiation of the irradiation module 40 is set according to the detected body characteristics. Thus, for example, an irradiation module 40 with its back to the upper end can be completely switched off if the user's legs do not cover this irradiation module 40.

[0079] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor 61 may also detect certain skin characteristics of the user's 10 body, such as the presence or absence of tattoos, burns, wounds, birthmarks, scars, vitiligo, pigmentation disorders, current tan level, and skin type. This second sensor may also be formed as a camera and connected to an evaluation logic, which detects skin tone and contrast with high resolution and evaluates the recorded images to determine the aforementioned body characteristics. The evaluation module 40 then operates at reduced power depending on the skin characteristics when there is a risk of skin burns during normal radiation and exposure.

[0080] Finally, a second sensor 62 is also arranged in the upper housing, which detects radiation from the illumination module 40 or the corresponding LEDs 42, 43. The second sensor 62 or its evaluation unit compares the detected radiation with target values, e.g., stored in the controller S, which performs adjustments of the operating parameters of the illumination module 40 in response to deviations of the detected values ​​from the target values, such that an adjustment is made to the target values.

[0081] The present invention has been described above by means of an exemplary embodiment in which the illumination module comprises two types of LEDs 42, 43 emitting different ultraviolet spectra. It is to be understood that further LEDs having spectra different from the two LEDs 42, 43 may likewise be provided in the illumination module.

[0082] The present invention has been described above by means of an exemplary embodiment in which the illumination module has 6 LEDs 43 in the UVB spectrum and 14 LEDs in the UVA spectrum, it is understood that the number of LEDs in the corresponding spectrum may be divided differently according to the application.

[0083] The present invention has been described above by means of an exemplary embodiment in which the carrier 41 of the illumination module 40 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape and has an area of ​​4 x 5 LEDs 42, 43. It should be understood that the carrier 41 may have a different shape, for example a square or a hexagon, and the LEDs 42, 43 may be arranged differently on the carrier 41.

[0084] The present invention has been described above by means of an exemplary embodiment in which a carrier 41 is connected to a heat exchanger plate 46 which is connected to a heat exchanger via a cooling line 47. It is to be understood that a heat exchanger 48 may be connected to further carriers 41 simultaneously via further cooling lines, and it is also possible to connect several heat exchanger plates to a heat exchanger 48 via connecting lines to a closed system.

[0085] The invention has been described above by means of an exemplary embodiment in which all illumination modules 40 in the device 1 are formed in the same way. It is to be understood that the illumination modules 40 for the shoulder and head area, the illumination modules in the lower housing part 20 and the illumination modules in the upper housing part 30 may be formed differently and in particular may have different numbers of LEDs.

[0086] The present invention has been described above by means of an exemplary embodiment in which the illumination module 40 is arranged in a fixed position in the housing 20, 30 and is essentially activated in response to data detected by the first sensor 61 and the second sensor 62. It should be understood that instead of electrically activating the illumination module 40, the illumination module 40 can also be adjustable with respect to its distance from the body of the user 10, for example via a pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical or electrical adjustment device.

[0087] The present invention has been described above by way of an exemplary embodiment in which the device 1 has a fixed lower portion 20 and an upper housing portion 30 that can be pivoted downwardly towards the lower portion 20, with the user 10 reclining on a reclining surface 21 of the lower housing portion 20. It should be understood that the device may also be formed in the shape of a stand-up tanning booth in which the two housing portions are arranged substantially perpendicular to one another and the user is essentially standing on the floor and is surrounded by the housing portions during exposure.

[0088] The present invention has been described above by way of exemplary embodiments in which sensors 61, 62 detect characteristics of the device 1 or the person 10. It is understood that several sensors may be provided for this purpose and that the data acquired by the sensors may also be stored in order to record the appropriate adjustment of the device.

Claims

1. An irradiation module for use in an apparatus (1) for the application of medical and cosmetic radiation, comprising: An illumination module comprising a plurality of LEDs (42; 43) arranged on a carrier (41), a first group of first LEDs (42) emitting radiation in the UVA spectrum and a second group of second LEDs (43) emitting radiation in the UVB spectrum are arranged on the carrier (41); a reflector (44a) is assigned to each LED (42; 43) and connected to the carrier (41); a plurality of the reflectors (44a) tapering from the plurality of LEDs (42; 43) are arranged as regions within a common modular unit (44); the modular unit (44), the carrier (41) and a heat transfer plate (46) are connected to one another; and the heat transfer plate (46) is connected to a cooling body (48) via cooling lines (47); The illumination module includes a cover disk having a plurality of circular recesses (45a) corresponding to the number of the reflectors (44a), the circular recesses (45a) being formed coaxially with the axes of the reflectors (44a), and a fluorescent layer being provided on the inner periphery of the circular recesses. An illumination module comprising:

2. 2. The illumination module according to claim 1, wherein the first LEDs (42) represent 50% to 90% of the sum of the first LEDs and the second LEDs, and the second LEDs (43) represent 50% to 10% of the sum of the first LEDs and the second LEDs.

3. 3. The illumination module according to claim 1, wherein 20 LEDs (42; 43) or an integer multiple of 20 LEDs are arranged on the carrier, and 4 LEDs or an integer multiple of 4 LEDs are respectively formed as the second LEDs (43).

4. 4. The illumination module according to claim 1, wherein the LEDs (42; 43) are arranged on the carrier in an area of ​​4 rows and 5 columns, the central column being formed by the second LED (43).

5. 5. The illumination module according to claim 4, characterized in that the distance between adjacent LEDs (42; 43) in the same column or row is between 1 cm and 4 cm, preferably between 1.25 cm and 2.25 cm, particularly preferably between 1.5 cm and 2 cm.

6. Illumination module according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the LED (42; 43) is provided with a primary optic in the form of a silicone lens.

7. Illumination module according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second LED (43) is operated at a lower power level than the first LED (42).

8. Irradiation module according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the modular unit (44), the carrier (41) and the heat transfer plate (46) have a screw connection to each other.

9. 2. The illumination module according to claim 1, characterized in that the modular unit (44) has at least one recess for a third LED emitting visible radiation and without a reflector.

10. Device for irradiating a user with medical and cosmetic radiation, characterized by at least one irradiation module (40) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. 11. A device for irradiating a user (10) with medical / cosmetic radiation according to claim 10, comprising: An apparatus comprising a plurality of irradiation modules (40) for applying medical and / or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing (20; 30), the irradiation module (40) comprises a plurality of LEDs (42; 43) emitting radiation in the UVA and / or UVB spectrum, arranged on a carrier (41), said LEDs (42; 43) can be operated individually or together to emit light with a definable intensity, A reflector (44a) is assigned to each LED (42; 43) and connected to the carrier (41), and a plurality of the reflectors (44a) tapering from the plurality of LEDs (42; 43) are arranged as regions within a common modular unit (44), and the modular unit (44), the carrier (41), and a heat transfer plate (46) are connected to one another. An apparatus characterized in that

12. 12. The device according to claim 11, characterized in that surfaces occupied by a user (10) are detected (61) and the LEDs (42; 43) assigned to unoccupied surfaces are operated with reduced power or not operated at all.

13. 13. Device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that an input unit for a user (10) is provided, by which the user (10) can select areas in which the LEDs (42; 43) assigned to the selected area are operated with reduced power or not at all.

14. A device for irradiating a user (10) with medical and cosmetic radiation according to any one of claims 10 to 13, comprising: An apparatus comprising a plurality of irradiation modules (40) for applying medical and / or cosmetic radiation housed in a housing (20; 30), a sensor (62) for detecting the radiation emitted by the irradiation module (40); The irradiation module (40) may be operated by a controller (S) with modified operating parameters in response to deviation of the detected radiation by a definable value of radiation, so as to conform the emitted radiation to a definable value of radiation. An apparatus characterized in that

15. 15. The device according to claim 14, characterized in that the illumination module (40) operates at a constant voltage and that the illumination module (40) is operated by pulse width modulation.

16. 15. The device according to claim 14, characterized in that the illumination module (40) operates at a constant current and the illumination module (40) is activated by changing the amperage.

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