Light therapy device and electrode rods for it.

Abstract

The invention relates to a phototherapy device. Light is generated by efficient arc discharge and is widely used for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as viral infectious diseases by enhancing and optimally adjusting the wavelength of light of the phototherapy device and increasing the usability of the phototherapy device. The phototherapy device comprises: a pair of electrodes containing carbon, titanium nitride and at least one component of potassium and potassium compounds; a support for the pair of electrodes so that the electrode bars of the pair are spaced at a predetermined distance apart; and an electrical circuit constructed to apply voltage between the pair of electrodes to generate an arc discharge between the electrodes.

Description

Phototherapy devices and electrode rods

[0001] The present invention relates to a phototherapy device that generates an arc discharge between a pair of electrodes and utilizes the light generated by the arc discharge to prevent and treat diseases such as viral infections, and to an electrode rod used in the phototherapy device.

[0002] Conventionally, in electrode rods used in phototherapy devices that utilize arc discharge, the luminous intensity is weak when made of carbon alone, so electrode rods that contain a metal mixed therein to enhance the luminous intensity are known. Patent Document 1 discloses that in order to enhance the luminous intensity, lanthanoid rare earth elements such as cerium and lanthanum, alkali metals, etc. are mixed in addition to carbon.

[0003] Adding metal to the electrode rod changes the emission spectrum of the light generated by the arc discharge. This is because metals have emission spectra with wavelength ranges specific to their elements. The width of the spectrum is nearly uniform and narrow for a single element, regardless of the type. Furthermore, if only one metal element is added, the number of emission peaks is basically one. With conventional electrode rods, the types of metals that can be added are limited, and the number of emission peaks and the width of the wavelength range where the peaks are found cannot be increased or expanded beyond the types of metal elements added. Furthermore, the uses of conventional light therapy devices were limited to thermal therapy, such as pain relief, improved circulation, and circadian rhythm regulation.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 53-083360

[0005] Conventional phototherapy devices have not considered adjusting the emission spectrum of light rays generated by arc discharge, and phototherapy devices using arc discharge have not been effectively used for anything other than specific applications. The purpose of this invention is to optimally enhance and adjust the wavelength range of light rays and increase the convenience of phototherapy devices, thereby enabling the effective and widespread use of light rays generated by arc discharge for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as viral infections.

[0006] Considering safety and harmful effects on the human body at the high temperatures of arc discharge, the types of metal elements that can actually be used in electrode rods are quite limited. For example, even non-metallic carbon, even high-temperature processed carbon nanotubes, can cause pulmonary fibrosis if inhaled, so pure carbon or graphite is preferable. Silicon compounds that emit infrared rays also pose the risk of pneumoconiosis and carcinogenesis, making them unsuitable elements for use in arc discharge. Compounds containing multiple harmful elements, such as calcium halophosphate, which is used in fluorescent lamps sealed in glass, cannot be used in phototherapy devices. As mentioned above, consideration must be given to the harmful effects on the human body when adding metals to electrode rods.

[0007] The phototherapy device of the present invention comprises a pair of electrodes containing carbon, titanium nitride, and potassium or a potassium compound; a support that supports the pair of electrodes so that the pair of electrodes are spaced a predetermined distance apart; and an electrical circuit that applies a voltage to the pair of electrodes to generate an arc discharge between the pair of electrodes. In a phototherapy device configured as described above, adding titanium nitride to the electrodes can utilize the light absorption / scattering effect and plasmon effect to achieve light emission with an increased number of emission peaks. By irradiating light with a pattern that covers the ultraviolet range but has an expanded wavelength range, it can be effective against viral and bacterial infections. Titanium nitride is highly biocompatible, as it is used in artificial joints, and is therefore thought to have little adverse effect on the human body.

[0008] In the above configuration, the pair of electrodes may further contain silver or calcium. In the phototherapy device configured as described above, adding silver or calcium to the electrodes can enhance the luminescence intensity in the near-infrared region, thereby increasing the therapeutic effect on the living body. It can also reduce harmful ultraviolet wavelengths of UVB and UVC.

[0009] The phototherapy device may further include an absorbent material for absorbing carbon dioxide generated by the arc discharge, the absorbent material containing clay powder, wood ash, charcoal, and zeolite. In the phototherapy device configured as described above, the carbon dioxide and metal oxides generated by combustion are absorbed by the absorbent material, thereby preventing the generated substances from being directly inhaled by the user or being directly emitted into the outside air.

[0010] In the above configuration, the phototherapy device may further include a fan installed near the pair of electrodes to guide the carbon dioxide to the absorbent material. The phototherapy device configured as described above can promote the adsorption of carbon dioxide and metal oxides to the absorbent material.

[0011] In the above configuration, the electric circuit may be configured to include a MOSFET or an IGBT. A phototherapy device configured as described above can be made smaller and lighter than a conventional device using a large transformer. This makes the phototherapy device more portable.

[0012] The above-mentioned configuration may further comprise a metal reflector that reflects the light beam generated by the arc discharge, and the reflector may have grooves formed thereon. The phototherapy device configured as described above can enhance the intensity of the light beam and generate the light beam with minimal power.

[0013] According to the present invention, the light generated by the arc discharge can be used effectively and widely for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as viral infections.

[0014] 1 is a perspective view of a phototherapy device according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electrode rod used in the phototherapy device; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the internal structure of an irradiation unit in which an electrode rod is arranged; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic structure of an adsorbent; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic light energy amplifying mechanism formed on a reflector; FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an outline of an electric circuit used in the present invention; FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of an electric circuit using a MOSFET; FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram of an electric circuit using an IGBT; FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a phototherapy device; FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a phototherapy device; FIG. 10 is a plan view showing another embodiment of a support part; FIG. 11 is a light spectrum when a conventional electrode rod is used; FIG. 12 is a light spectrum when titanium nitride is added; FIG. 13 is a light spectrum when titanium nitride and calcium are added; FIG. 14 is a light spectrum when titanium nitride and silver are added.

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, which are illustrative only. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a phototherapy device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The phototherapy device 1 is a portable therapy device that is small, lightweight, and easily portable. As shown in FIG. 1 , the phototherapy device 1 is composed of a pair of electrode rods 10, an irradiation unit 20 configured to be handheld and movable by a user, and a main body 30 incorporating an electrical circuit and the like. The pair of electrode rods 10 are arranged near the tip of the irradiation unit 20 at a predetermined distance, and a hood 21 partially covers the periphery of the electrode rods 10. The main body 30 includes a connection cable 31 electrically connecting the irradiation unit 20 to the main body 30, a power cable 32 connecting the main body 30 to a power source, a power switch 33 for switching the power ON / OFF, and a storage unit 34 for storing the irradiation unit 20 in an upright position near the main body 30. An electric circuit built into the main body 30 applies a voltage to the pair of electrode rods 10, causing an arc discharge between the pair of electrode rods 10, which generates a light beam. The generated light beam is irradiated onto the user's body through the opening in the hood 21, and the luminous energy of the light beam can be used to prevent and treat diseases such as viral infections.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the electrode rod 10 used in the phototherapy device 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the electrode rod 10 is composed of a cylindrical core portion 11 for generating arc discharge and an aggregate portion 12 that surrounds and protects the core portion 11. The aggregate portion 12 is manufactured by mixing carbon aggregates such as petroleum coke and graphite powder with binders such as tar and thermosetting resin, and then burning and solidifying the mixture at 1000°C. To enhance combustibility, 20-30% sulfur may be added. The aggregate portion 12 is designed as a cylindrical rod with a diameter of approximately 5-10 mm. The center of the aggregate portion 12 is hollowed out by approximately 2 mm, and the mixture containing the core material 11 is poured into the hollow and then burned again to solidify. The core portion 11 is made by mixing fine powders of potassium carbonate, iron, titanium nitride, calcium carbonate, cerium oxide, lanthanum oxide, silver, etc., together with binders such as petroleum pitch and tar. An example of the mixing ratio of the materials constituting the core portion 11 is shown in Table 1. Titanium nitride is used as fine particles with a particle size of 1 to 1.5 μm. Potassium or other potassium compounds can be used instead of potassium carbonate. Calcium or other calcium compounds can be used instead of calcium carbonate.

[0017] FIG. 3 shows the internal structure of the irradiation unit 20 in which a pair of electrodes 10 are arranged. The exterior of the irradiation unit 20 is indicated by dashed lines, and the internal structure is indicated by solid lines. The irradiation unit 20 includes a hood 21, a support 22, a fan 23, a thermoelectric cooler 24, and an adsorption unit 25. The support 22 has a disk-shaped plate with an inclined surface on the upper surface. The pair of electrodes 10 are inserted from below to above the support 22, and the pair of electrodes 10 are supported with the pair of electrodes 10 protruding from the top of the plate. By optimally setting the angle of the inclined surface, the pair of electrodes 10 are arranged facing diagonally upward. Each electrode 10 protrudes the same length from the support 22, and the electrodes 10 are fixed to the support 22 at a predetermined distance. A communication hole 22H is formed in the plate of the support 22. Carbon dioxide, metals, etc. generated by the arc discharge pass through the communication holes 22H and are introduced to the fan 23 and adsorption unit 25 side.

[0018] The thermoelectric cooler 24 is a device that converts heat into electricity using a Peltier element. The thermoelectric cooler 24 is placed below the electrode rod 10 to cool the heat generated by the arc discharge, and the electricity generated by the thermoelectric cooler 24 is used to drive the fan 23. The thermoelectric cooler 24 is placed with its heat absorption side facing (upward) toward the electrode rod 10 and its heat dissipation side in close contact with the heat sink of the fan 23. The fan 23 is driven by a motor built into the fan 23 to generate airflow, thereby cooling the area around the electrode rod 10. The fan 23 also guides gases generated by the arc discharge (including carbon dioxide, metal oxides, etc.) to the adsorption unit 25 and promotes the exhaust of gases that pass through the adsorption unit 25 to the outside through the exhaust hole 20H provided on the side of the irradiation unit 20. The fan 23 may also be connected to a power source and driven without using a thermoelectric cooler.

[0019] The adsorption unit 25 is disposed below the fan 24. The adsorption unit 25 adsorbs gases such as carbon dioxide and metal oxides generated by combustion (arc discharge). FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the adsorption unit 25. As shown in FIG. 4, the adsorption unit 25 is composed of case portions 25A and 25B and an adsorbent 25C. The adsorbent 25C is placed inside the lower portion of the case portion 25A and inside the case portion 25B. The case portion 25B has a structure combining a cylindrical outer cylinder and a funnel-shaped (triangular prism-shaped) inner cylinder. The adsorbent 25C is disposed between the inner and outer cylinders. The funnel-shaped inner cylinder gradually decreases in diameter from top to bottom, and opens in a circular shape at the bottom end of the case portion 25B. In other words, the case portion 25B has an opening penetrating the interior in the vertical direction. With the adsorbent 25C disposed in the case portion 25A, the case portion 25B is disposed inside the upper portion of the case portion 25A. Gases entering from above case portion 25B pass through adsorbent material 25C laid across case portion 25B, while gases sent downward pass through adsorbent material 25C laid across case portion 25A. At this time, carbon dioxide, metal oxides, and other substances contained in the gas are adsorbed by adsorbent material 25C. This allows harmful substances to be removed from the gas being discharged to the outside through exhaust hole 20H. Forming multiple holes 25H on the outer periphery of the upper part of case portion 25A promotes the gas that has passed through adsorbent material 25C being discharged through exhaust hole 20H. It is not necessary to use case portion 25A and case portion 25B in combination; either one can be used alone.

[0020] The adsorbent must be easily replaceable after a specified number of uses, be able to quickly absorb harmful substances, be easy to manufacture, be able to withstand high temperatures, be odorless, be made of safe materials, and not easily release absorbed gases. Furthermore, to allow for disposal in ordinary households after use, the adsorbent must be free of metals such as lithium that could lead to environmental pollution of soil and rivers. The materials and manufacturing method for adsorbent 25C, developed based on these considerations, are described below. The adsorbent 25C is made by crushing and pulverizing charcoal (wood charcoal) and zeolite in a volume ratio of 2:1 to 1:1, mixing them with ash and feldspar powder in a volume ratio of 0.5:1 to 1:2, mixing a small amount of water and alkaline electrolyzed water to achieve the appropriate moisture content, and then adding silica gel in a volume ratio of approximately 1:2 to 2.5. The ash is wood ash or the like, containing potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Feldspar is a white clay powder used in making pottery. It contains 70-80% silica, 18-25% aluminum oxide, 5-12% potassium oxide, 3-10% sodium oxide, 0.1% iron oxide, 0.1-0.2% calcium oxide, and 0.01-0.05% magnesium oxide. Feldspar is mined in India, Japan, and other parts of the world, and its composition varies slightly depending on the location of mining. Because feldspar contains less calcium oxide than other components, adding calcium oxide increases absorption efficiency. It is also possible to mix several clay powders used in pottery and ceramics, rather than feldspar, and combine them with increased amounts of potassium oxide, sodium oxide, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, etc. When reacting with carbon dioxide, potassium oxide changes to potassium carbonate, sodium oxide changes to sodium carbonate, and calcium oxide changes to calcium carbonate, as shown below. K ２ O+H ２ O→2KOH 2KOH+CO ２ →K ２ CO ３ +H ２ O Na ２ O+H ２ O→2NaOH 2NaOH+CO ２ →Na ２CO ３ +H ２ O CaO + H ２ O → Ca(OH) ２ Ca(OH) ２ + CO2 → CaCO ３ +H ２ O Alkaline electrolyzed water is produced by electrolyzing water or saline solution to produce a negative O Table 2 shows an example of the composition of the adsorbent 25C in terms of mass.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a light energy amplifying mechanism formed on a reflector. In FIG. 5, a metal (stainless steel) reflector 21M is disposed inside the hood 21 as a light energy amplifying mechanism, and grooves 21G are formed on the surface of the reflector 21M. By disposing the reflector 21M, the light beam generated by the arc discharge is reflected, increasing the amount of light beams radiated toward the user, thereby amplifying the energy. Furthermore, by forming grooves 21G on the surface of the reflector 21M, the intensity of the light beam can be enhanced through the refraction, reflection, and radiation of light. The grooves 21G are formed by parallel grooves approximately 100 μm wide, arranged vertically and horizontally at right angles. The width of the multiple grooves is not limited to the above, and they do not necessarily have to be parallel. Furthermore, the grooves do not necessarily have to be formed in a lattice pattern; only vertical or horizontal grooves may be formed. The grooves can also be formed in a honeycomb shape, etc. The intensity of the light energy can be adjusted by changing the number, length, depth, shape, arrangement, and combination of the grooves, allowing for more effective use of the phototherapy device 1. Forming the grooves 21G means forming recessed or protruding portions on the surface of the reflector 21M. The effect of enhancing energy can also be obtained by thinly coating the surface of the reflector 21M with aluminum or silver. Furthermore, the portion where the reflector 21M and grooves 21G are formed is not limited to the hood 21. The reflector 21M and grooves 21G can also be formed on the support portion 22 that supports the electrode rod 10 or other portions close to the light source.

[0022] Next, we will explain the electrical circuit built into the main body 30 of the phototherapy device 1. Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an outline of the electrical circuit. As shown in Figure 6, the electrical circuit of the present invention basically consists of a converter, inverter, transformer, and smoothing / rectifying circuit, to which a control circuit and voltage circuit are incorporated. For the converter section, it is desirable to use a diode / capacitor circuit or a four-diode / capacitor rectifying circuit using a large-capacity capacitor and diodes, as this is the simplest possible circuit. For the inverter section, a circuit using a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) as shown in Figure 7 or a circuit using an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) as shown in Figure 8 can be used. In an IGBT circuit, two IGBTs are paired together and switch at high speed to generate an AC component. After AC conversion by a high-frequency transformer, the current is rectified and smoothed by diodes and choke coils, resulting in a stable arc light with reduced pulsation. The use of high-frequency rectifier circuits using MOSFETs and IGBTs allows for the miniaturization and weight reduction of phototherapy devices. To stabilize the light rays generated by arc discharge, it is necessary to suppress voltage pulsation and enhance the rectification of the current, and this is made possible by using MOSFETs and IGBTs that are capable of high-speed switching.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a phototherapy device. The phototherapy device 100 shown in FIG. 9 is a stationary device. As shown in FIG. 9 , the phototherapy device 100 is composed of a pair of electrode rods 110, an irradiation unit 120 configured to be movable in the vertical direction, and a main body unit 130 incorporating an electrical circuit and the like. The electrode rods 110 and the main body unit 130 have the same configurations as the electrode rods 10 and the main body unit 30, respectively, and therefore will not be described here. The irradiation unit 120 is composed of a hood 121 that partially covers the periphery of the electrode rods 110, a support unit 122 that supports the electrode rods 110, a support post 123 that supports the support unit 122 so that it can be moved in the vertical direction, a sensor 124 for detecting the position of the user, and a camera 125 that captures an image of the user. The support unit 122 (including the hood 121, etc.) is arranged to be movable in the vertical direction relative to the support post 123. For example, a rack and pinion system is used to enable relative movement in the vertical direction, with a rack provided on the support 123 and a pinion provided on the support part 122. By incorporating a motor in the support part 122, the pinion can be electrically driven to rotate.

[0024] The sensor 124 is, for example, an ultrasound sensor. The sensor 124 is attached to the hood 121 of the irradiation unit 120. The sensor 124 detects whether a human body is present within a certain distance from the phototherapy device 100. If the sensor 124 determines that a human body is present for a certain period of time or longer, the motor built into the support unit 122 is driven to move the support unit 122 up and down relative to the support column 123. At this time, the support unit 122 moves while detecting the distance between the sensor 124 and the human body. For example, a sudden narrowing of the width of the human body is recognized as the neck of the human body. This allows the support unit 122 of the electrode rod 110 to be automatically moved to an optimal position even if the user's height, etc., changes.

[0025] An infrared sensor can also be combined with the sensor 124. By detecting the temperature of the human body, it is possible to prevent malfunctions caused by objects other than humans. It is also possible to use thermography to directly read the thermal image of the heat source and move the support part 122 of the electrode rod 110 to the round lower part of the head. It is also possible to use a camera 125 to take a picture of the human head and analyze it with image recognition software, thereby moving the support part 122 of the electrode rod 110 to the optimal position. Although not shown, like the phototherapy device 1, the irradiation part 120 of the phototherapy device 100 also has a built-in suction part and fan.

[0026] Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a phototherapy device. As shown in Fig. 10, the phototherapy device 200 is composed of a pair of electrode rods 210, an irradiation unit 220 configured to be movable in the vertical direction, a main body 230 incorporating an electrical circuit, etc. The irradiation unit 220 is composed of a hood 221 that partially covers the periphery of the electrode rods 210, a support unit 222 that supports the electrode rods 210, a support pole 223 that supports the support pole 222 so that it can be moved in the vertical direction, and a circular holder 224 that holds the multiple support poles. The electrode rods 210, the main body 230, the hood 221, and the support pole 222 are configured similarly to the electrode rods 110, the main body 130, the hood 121, and the support pole 122, respectively, and therefore will not be described here. The phototherapy device 200 is configured to have multiple irradiation units 220, allowing multiple people to use it simultaneously. By arranging the support posts 223 at multiple positions on the holding unit 224, multiple irradiation units 220 can be arranged at a predetermined distance apart. Although not shown, the phototherapy device 200 may be equipped with a sensor or a camera, similar to the phototherapy device 100. By using a sensor or a camera, it is possible to adjust the position of the irradiation unit 220 to suit the heights of multiple users. Although not shown, similar to the phototherapy device 1, the irradiation unit 220 of the phototherapy device 200 also has an internal suction unit and a fan.

[0027] Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a phototherapy device. As shown in Fig. 11, the phototherapy device 300 is composed of a pair of electrode rods 310, an irradiation unit 320 configured to be movable in the vertical direction, a main body 330 incorporating an electrical circuit, etc. The irradiation unit 320 is composed of a hood 321 that partially covers the periphery of the electrode rods 310, a support unit 322 that supports the electrode rods 310, and a support column 323 that supports the support unit 322 so that it can be moved in the vertical direction. The electrode rods 310 and the main body 330 have the same configurations as the electrode rods 110 and the main body 130, respectively, and therefore their description will be omitted. In the phototherapy device 300, the hood 321 of the irradiation unit 320 has a substantially rectangular opening with a large opening area. This allows for a wide range of the user's entire body to be irradiated at once, and is configured so that one irradiation unit 220 can be shared by multiple people. While Figure 11 shows an example in which there are two support parts 322 (hoods 321), it is also possible to provide three or more support parts 322 (hoods 321). Although not shown, like the phototherapy device 100, the phototherapy device 300 may be equipped with a sensor or a camera. By using a sensor or a camera, it is possible to adjust the position of the irradiation part 320 according to the height of the user, etc. Although not shown, like the phototherapy device 1, the phototherapy device 300 also has an internal suction part and a fan.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a plan view showing another embodiment of the support portion. As shown in FIG. 12, the support portion 422 is composed of a pair of support portions 422A and 422B that independently support a pair of electrode rods 410. While the support portion 422A is fixed in position, the support portion 422B is configured to be movable toward and away from the support portion 422A. This structure allows optimal adjustment of the distance between the pair of electrode rods 410 (light source distance). The support portions 422A and 422B are angled so that they approach each other toward the tip of the electrode rod 410. A threaded groove is formed in the shaft 423 connected to the support portion 422B. The shaft 423 is inserted into a threaded hole formed in the fixed portion 424. The shaft 423 is rotated relative to the fixed portion 424 by rotating the adjustment knob 425 fixed to the tip of the shaft 423. This moves the support portion 422B relative to the support portion 422A. By changing the light source distance, it is possible to adjust the intensity of the light beam or to shorten the distance between the pair of electrode rods 420 when the electrode rods 410 are being used up. It is also possible to configure an automatic adjustment mechanism that electrically moves the support part 422B by incorporating a motor or the like. If a structure is used in which both the left and right support parts are moved, a high voltage may be applied to both the left and right support parts while they are connected, which could cause a short circuit between the support parts. By using a structure in which only one support part is moved, it is possible to prevent a short circuit between the support parts.

[0029] Next, we will explain the relationship between the components of the electrode rod and the wavelength of the light emitted from the phototherapy device. Figure 13 shows the spectrum of the light emitted from a phototherapy device when using a conventional electrode rod primarily composed of potassium and iron. Using a HOPOOCOLOR light wavelength meter (OHSP350C and 350UV), the wavelength of the light emitted by the arc discharge was measured in the range from 230 nm to 850 nm. The horizontal axis represents wavelength (nm), and the vertical axis represents the intensity of light emitted at each wavelength. As shown in Figure 13, when using the conventional electrode rod, an emission peak appears near 385 nm due to potassium, and an emission peak appears near 650 nm due to iron. Both are within the visible light range (380 nm to 780 nm). Furthermore, low wavelengths appear in the ultraviolet range (less than 380 nm).

[0030] Figure 14 shows the spectrum of light emitted from a phototherapy device when titanium nitride (TiN) was added to a conventional electrode rod. The addition of titanium nitride enabled the reduction of UV light intensity while still covering the UV range. It also enabled the emission of light with a pattern that expanded the number of emission peaks and the width of the wavelength range. This is because titanium nitride, among titanium compounds, is a hard substance that absorbs visible and UV light, resulting in light absorption and scattering effects. As a result, as shown in Figure 14, new emission peaks appear on both the short- and long-wavelength sides of the potassium-specific emission spectrum near 385 nm. In particular, the number of emission peaks increased in the visible range below 500 nm, and the wavelength range of the peaks also expanded. It was also found that the scattering effect extended to the entire wavelength range as the amount of titanium nitride added increased. When a small amount of titanium nitride is added, an arc discharge occurs in the core of the electrode rod as an aggregate of several metal elements, and the free electrons on the surface of the metal particles oscillate collectively due to their interaction with light, resulting in surface plasmon resonance and optical diffraction between them and the other mixed elements, resulting in a transfer of fluorescence resonance energy and light emission from several energy levels, which enhances the emission toward the long wavelength side and increases the emission peak.

[0031] Figure 15 shows the spectrum of light emitted from a phototherapy device when titanium nitride (TiN) and calcium (Ca) are added to a conventional electrode rod. It was found that adding calcium increases the light intensity in the near-infrared region (around 600 nm). Since the overall luminous intensity weakens as the amount of absorbed light increases with the amount of titanium nitride added, adding a small amount of calcium compound increased the overall luminous intensity. The luminous intensity increased with the amount of calcium compound added, which has an emission spectrum in the visible light region, and could be increased by approximately five times.

[0032] Figure 16 shows the spectrum of light emitted from a phototherapy device when titanium nitride (TiN) and silver (Ag) are added to conventional electrodes. The addition of silver enhanced the luminous intensity over a wide range, from visible light above 500 nm to the infrared region. It was also found that the addition of titanium nitride alone significantly reduced the ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) radiation, which was not observed to any significant extent. Table 3 shows that when the electrode rod contains potassium, the addition of silver and calcium reduced the UVB and UVC radiation, which are harmful to living organisms, to levels close to zero.

[0033] Next, the results of an experiment to confirm the effectiveness of the adsorbent of the present invention are shown. The gas generated when an electrode rod was burned by arc discharge for 1 minute 30 seconds was drawn into a 160 cc syringe, which was connected to another syringe containing 30 cc of absorbent, and the pump was operated to draw and push 10 times. The amount of carbon dioxide contained in each of the five types of absorbent was measured using a carbon dioxide detector tube, and the results are shown in Table 4.

[0034] As shown in Table 4, the carbon dioxide concentration in the gas collected by combustion was 3000 ppm. Using only charcoal, zeolite, silica gel, and water, the concentration improved to 1800 ppm. However, adding ash to the absorbent improved the concentration to 1500 ppm. Adding feldspar further improved the concentration to 500-600 ppm. Furthermore, adding alkaline electrolyzed water to the absorbent further improved the concentration to 300 ppm, a level that was one-tenth of the original concentration. This safe and highly effective carbon dioxide absorbent significantly reduces the environmental impact of electrode combustion and can be used for carbon dioxide reduction and absorption purposes beyond phototherapy. The best absorbent material was obtained by crushing and pulverizing charcoal and zeolite, mixing them with ash and feldspar powder, and then adding silica gel to a small amount of water and alkaline electrolyzed water, stirring, and improving viscosity and water retention. Feldspar types include potassium feldspar, soda feldspar, India feldspar, and pottery stone. Examples of feldspar components include SiO ２ :60~66%, Al ２ O ３ :18-24%, CaO: 0.1-0.3%, MgO: 0.01-0.04%, K ２ O: 5-12%, Na ２ Examples include water containing 3 to 5% O. Electrolyzed water refers to water that is generated on the negative side when water is electrolyzed.

[0035] Next, the results of an experiment to confirm the effectiveness of the light energy amplifying mechanism of the present invention are shown. Table 5 shows the results of an experiment comparing the light intensity of the light energy amplifying mechanism. A 100 mm x 100 mm x 1 mm flat plate was compared with a stainless steel (SUS304) plate, a stainless steel plate with vertical grooves, and a stainless steel plate with vertical and horizontal grooves. The metal plate with only vertical grooves had a total of 55 grooves, each 0.1 mm wide and 0.5 mm deep, formed in an area 100 mm long and 35 mm wide near the center. The metal plate with vertical and horizontal grooves had a total of 55 vertical grooves, each 0.1 mm wide and 0.5 mm deep, formed in an area 100 mm long and 35 mm wide near the center, and a total of 20 horizontal grooves of the same width and depth were formed perpendicular to the vertical grooves within the 40 mm vertical area. A flat plate was placed near the irradiation point and the light intensity of the reflected light was measured when light was irradiated. The numerical value is expressed in lux (lx).

[0036] As shown in Table 5, it was confirmed that the light intensity was increased by placing a stainless steel plate. It was also confirmed that the light intensity was further increased by forming vertical grooves or vertical and horizontal grooves on the stainless steel plate. When vertical and horizontal grooves were formed, the light intensity was increased by about 3 to 10 times compared to when no stainless steel plate was placed.

[0037] Next, we conducted a therapeutic experiment using the phototherapy device of the present invention on people with infectious diseases. Evaluations were conducted on a group with acute respiratory symptoms (runny nose, cough, phlegm, sneezing, sore throat, etc.), further divided into groups based on whether they had a fever or not. We also focused on white blood cell differentials in blood tests. In bacterial infections, white blood cell counts and CRP (inflammatory response) increase in accordance with the severity of the infection, but in viral infections, these generally do not increase. Therefore, we focused on a leftward shift in white blood cell differentials. We focused on the fact that white blood cell differentials show an increase in lymphocyte counts (decreased neutrophil counts) in viral infections and an increase in neutrophil counts (decreased lymphocyte counts) in bacterial infections. Furthermore, for cases in which bacteria or viruses were identified in sputum culture results, their progression was also evaluated. Table 6 shows the normal ranges for neutrophil and lymphocyte counts.

[0038] In Experiment 1, a total of 40 patients in their 30s to 80s who showed symptoms of acute respiratory infection (runny nose, cough, phlegm, sneezing, sore throat, chills, etc.) were selected. Of these, 20 with a fever of 37.5°C or higher and 20 without a fever were treated with light therapy using the phototherapy device of the present invention for 3 to 10 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day, on the area from the neck to the anterior chest and the right upper quadrant where the liver is located. The 20 without a fever had normal white blood cell counts in blood samples, suggesting they were in the very early stages of bacterial or viral infection. After two days of irradiation with the phototherapy device, all 20 patients experienced symptom resolution. Of the 20 with a fever of 37.5°C or higher, 10 showed elevated neutrophil counts in their white blood cell counts, suggesting they were in the early stages of bacterial infection, and CRP levels also increased to 0.4-7. Six with elevated lymphocyte counts were considered to be in the early stages of viral infection. The four patients with white blood cell differential counts within the normal range were considered to be in the very early stages of infection. The phototherapy device of the present invention was used on these patients for two to five days. By the second to third day, 14 of the 20 patients had subsided to normal temperature. By the fourth to fifth day, the remaining six patients had subsided to normal temperature. Respiratory symptoms (runny nose, cough, phlegm, sneezing, sore throat, chills, etc.) disappeared in eight of the 20 patients by the second day, in six by the third day, and in the remaining six by the fourth to fifth day. Furthermore, normalization of blood test data was observed one week to ten days later. The group with elevated neutrophil counts suggested bacterial infection, while the group with elevated lymphocyte counts suggested viral infection. For patients with very early respiratory symptoms or mild symptoms without fever, significant improvement was observed, with many patients' symptoms disappearing by the first day, and all patients showing improvement by the second day. Furthermore, daily use of the phototherapy device, even with fever, was found to improve the improvement effect. The earlier the treatment, the more rapid the effect.

[0039] In Experiment 2, three patients were tested using the phototherapy device of the present invention. Two had tested positive for MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) for six consecutive months (1+ to 2+) based on bacterial culture test results from the throat, and one had tested positive for MRSA for three consecutive months (1+). Light was irradiated from the neck to the anterior chest and the right upper abdominal region twice a day (morning and evening) for 5 to 10 minutes for a total of five days. Throat swab samples taken seven days after the start of irradiation confirmed that all three patients were MRSA-negative (-).

[0040] In Experiment 3, of four patients who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in saliva PCR, two with a fever of 37.5°C or higher and two without a fever were irradiated with light from the neck to the anterior chest and right upper abdomen two to three times a day for five to ten minutes each time for five consecutive days using the phototherapy device of the present invention. Five days after irradiation, PCR tests using nasopharyngeal swab samples showed that all four patients were negative.

[0041] The test data from Experiments 1 to 3 were the results of analysis at a testing center affiliated with a medical institution. Experiment 1 suggests that the group with an increased neutrophil count had a bacterial infection, while the group with no movement of white blood cell fractions despite fever or an increased lymphocyte count had a viral infection. For subjects with early respiratory symptoms or mild symptoms without fever, the improvement was significant, with many cases in which symptoms disappeared within a few hours, indicating that the earlier the treatment, the faster and more reliable the effect. For subjects with fever, many cases also saw improvement in symptoms, and the improvement was rapid. Experiments 2 and 3 indicate that the treatment is also effective against MRSA and SARS-CoV-2.

[0042] As described above, adding titanium nitride to the electrode rod can change the conventional emission peak pattern. Potassium, which has an emission peak in the visible light region, can produce an emission peak at the shorter wavelength end of its inherent emission spectrum, covering the UVA region. Furthermore, titanium nitride's light absorption and scattering effects and plasmon effects can be utilized to create an increased number of emission peaks. This broad interference and influence on the emission peaks of other elements is not observed in other elements or metal compounds. By adding titanium nitride, it is possible to irradiate light with an expanded wavelength range while covering the UV region without adding harmful metal elements with emission spectra in the UV region. Furthermore, adding silver or calcium has been shown to enhance the emission intensity in the near-infrared region, increasing the therapeutic effect on living organisms. This suggests that utilizing the near-infrared region (around 600 nm to 900 nm), where light is easily absorbed by living organisms, is effective. The effectiveness against viruses and bacteria is thought to be due to the expanded and more numerous emission peaks extending from the shorter wavelength end of potassium's inherent emission spectrum, the utilization of the near-infrared region, and the infrared effect, which effectively enhance the emission. This can be effective against viral and bacterial infections, and the addition of silver or calcium can reduce harmful UVB and UVC wavelengths.

[0043] While ultraviolet light is known to be effective in sterilizing viruses and bacteria, direct exposure of the human body to intense ultraviolet light is unacceptable due to the excessive damage it causes to the skin and cells. This invention has discovered that by combining near-infrared light energy, which is easily absorbed by the body, it is possible to achieve effects on the human body while minimizing the amount of ultraviolet light required. Furthermore, the thermal effect of infrared light from carbon combustion promotes the body's response and works effectively. Furthermore, to be effective against pathogens ingested by the body, intense light energy from arc discharge is required. Considering that using elements with an emission peak in the ultraviolet range to obtain ultraviolet light would result in excessive ultraviolet intensity and significant adverse effects on the human body, and that the combustion products of arc discharge would further adversely affect the human body, we have utilized elements with an emission peak in the visible light range, which traditionally does not have an emission peak in the ultraviolet range, and by extending the emission peak into the ultraviolet range, we can minimize and secure the necessary ultraviolet light and achieve the desired effect.

[0044] The phototherapy device of the present invention not only provides infrared-induced hyperthermia and organ activation through the action of effectively enhanced light energy over a wide range of effective wavelengths, but also prevents viral and bacterial infections. Even after bacteria or viruses have been inhaled, use of the phototherapy device can prevent their proliferation within the body until symptoms appear, thereby preventing the onset of disease if detected early. After pathogens have proliferated extensively within the body, it can reduce the number of pathogens and hasten recovery after the onset of disease. For preventive purposes or in the pre-onset stage, application of the device to the neck and anterior chest area once or twice a day for several tens of seconds to several minutes upon returning home from outside can be effective. After the onset of disease, application is recommended two to four times a day, irradiating the entire body, preferably with a focus on the anterior chest and the right upper quadrant where the liver is located, for several minutes to 15 minutes.

[0045] Carbon (such as charcoal), which accounts for the majority of the electrode rod's composition, generates carbon dioxide when burned. Emitting this carbon dioxide directly is undesirable from the perspective of environmental pollution. Furthermore, metal oxides generated during combustion not only produce an odor, but also pose a risk of harm to the human body if inhaled by the user. These problems are reduced by using an absorbent material containing clay powder, wood ash, charcoal, and zeolite. The carbon dioxide and metal oxides generated during combustion are adsorbed by the absorbent material, preventing direct inhalation by the user. Furthermore, using a thermoelectric cooler to drive a fan can promote the adsorption of carbon dioxide and metal oxides into the absorbent material.

[0046] Phototherapy devices use MOSFETs or IGBTs in their electrical circuits. Conventional phototherapy devices use large, heavy transformers, but the use of MOSFETs or IGBTs allows for smaller, lighter devices. This makes the phototherapy devices more portable. Furthermore, conventional large transformers are susceptible to the effects of the operating environment, such as coil heat generation, temperature, and humidity, making them unsuitable for public-use equipment that is used frequently over long periods of time. Furthermore, safety issues, such as the risk of overvoltage depending on the operating environment, and large secondary-side power losses in the transformer due to iron and copper losses, are also drawbacks. The present invention solves these problems by using MOSFETs or IGBTs.

[0047] The intensity of the light beam can be increased by placing a metal reflector near the light source and forming grooves in the reflector. This structure allows light beams to be generated with minimal power. It also makes it possible to use a phototherapy device even when the target is far away from the irradiation site. For example, this is effective when irradiating distant livestock or animals, or large animals with thick skin. It may also be effective when viruses emerge that require strong light energy to repel.

[0048] The phototherapy device of the present invention is not limited to personal use or use in hospitals. It can also be installed for public use in places where many people gather, such as airports, railways, and other transportation facilities, buildings, commercial facilities, concerts, and sporting events. For example, by irradiating all passengers at the boarding gate of an airplane, the spread of infectious diseases on board and the introduction of pathogens from abroad can be suppressed. In other words, it is thought to be effective in preventing the spread of infectious diseases due to human movement and in containing infectious diseases that have spread locally or to pandemics. Furthermore, unlike drugs and vaccines, it is expected to be equally effective against any type of bacteria or virus, even against mutant species, and is less likely to develop resistant bacteria. Furthermore, it is expected to be effective against infectious diseases not only in humans but also in livestock and animals.

[0049] The present invention is not limited to an embodiment as a phototherapy device, but can also be embodied as an electrode rod containing titanium nitride used in a pair of electrodes of a phototherapy device.

[0050] The mixing ratio of the materials in the core portion of the electrode rod shown in the above examples is merely an example, and the configuration of the present invention is not limited to this ratio. Furthermore, the adsorbent material in the electrode rod is merely an example, and the configuration of the present invention is not limited to this ratio. The mixing ratio of the adsorbent material is adjusted so that viscosity and water retention can be maintained. In this invention, the names of substances such as iron and calcium are concepts that include iron compounds and calcium compounds.

[0051] It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described examples. It goes without saying that a person skilled in the art would understand that the following are disclosed as embodiments of the present invention: - Applying mutually replaceable components and configurations disclosed in the above-described examples by appropriately changing their combinations; - Applying mutually replaceable components and configurations disclosed in the above-described examples by publicly known techniques that are not disclosed in the above-described examples, and applying such combinations by appropriately changing them; - Applying mutually replaceable components and configurations disclosed in the above-described examples by publicly known techniques that are not disclosed in the above-described examples, and applying such combinations by appropriately changing them.

[0052] 1, 100, 200, 300...phototherapy device, 10, 110, 210, 310, 410...electrode rod, 11...core material portion, 12...skeleton material portion, 20, 120, 220, 320...irradiation portion, 21, 121, 221, 321...hood, 22, 122, 222, 322, 422...support portion, 23...fan, 24...thermoelectric cooler, 25...suction portion, 30, 130, 230, 330...main body portion.

Claims

1. A phototherapy device comprising: a pair of electrodes containing carbon, titanium nitride, and potassium or a potassium compound; a support that supports the pair of electrodes so that the pair of electrodes are spaced a predetermined distance apart; and an electric circuit that applies a voltage to the pair of electrodes that causes an arc discharge between the pair of electrodes.

2. A phototherapy device according to claim 1, wherein the pair of electrodes further contains silver or calcium.

3. The phototherapy device according to claim 1, further comprising an adsorbent material for adsorbing carbon dioxide generated by the arc discharge, the adsorbent material including clay powder, wood ash, charcoal and zeolite.

4. A phototherapy device according to claim 3, further comprising a fan disposed near said pair of electrodes for directing said carbon dioxide to said adsorbent.

5. The phototherapy device according to claim 1, wherein the electrical circuit includes a MOSFET or an IGBT.

6. A phototherapy device according to claim 1, further comprising a metal reflector that reflects the light generated by the arc discharge, said reflector having grooves formed therein.

7. An electrode rod containing carbon, titanium nitride, and potassium or a potassium compound, used in a pair of electrodes of the phototherapy device described in claim 1.

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