Ultrasonic generating device having position recognition function of ultrasonic generator

Abstract

An ultrasonic generating device having a position recognition function of an ultrasonic generator is provided. The ultrasonic generating device comprises a cartridge, wherein the cartridge includes: an ultrasonic generator arranged in a housing; a guide member for moving the ultrasonic generator in the horizontal direction; a first sensing element moving in the horizontal direction together with the ultrasonic generator; and second sensing elements fixedly arranged at a plurality of positions on the housing, the second sensing elements allowing the position of the ultrasonic generator to be recognized through interaction with the first sensing element.

Description

Ultrasonic generator having a position recognition function of the ultrasonic generator element

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic generator and a control method thereof. More specifically, it relates to an ultrasonic generator having a position recognition function of an ultrasonic generator element and a control method thereof.

[0002] Ultrasound (or ultrasonic wave) generally refers to waves that propagate by vibrating a medium with a frequency exceeding 20 kHz. In some cases, it also refers to sound waves exceeding 15 kHz.

[0003] Ultrasound has a short wavelength, allowing its energy to be focused at an acute angle, imparting directionality and resulting in high linearity. Furthermore, ultrasound possesses propagation characteristics such as reflection and refraction, and its high safety and non-hazardous nature have been recognized, leading to its widespread use in various fields. For example, ultrasound is used as a sensor for detection and measurement, a sonicator for dispersing and mixing materials, and in industrial applications such as cleaning. Other applications include ultrasound imaging, monitoring heartbeats, breaking up stones, and even as a cosmetic device for skin stimulation.

[0004] As previously explained, ultrasound possesses high directivity and high energy. This characteristic is utilized as a non-invasive skin treatment device, skin stimulation device, or cosmetic device. For example, high-intensity focused ultrasound can be applied to the subcutaneous fat layer to activate cellular metabolism and stimulate collagen production. This not only has cosmetic benefits such as improved skin elasticity and wrinkles, but is also known to be effective in skin regeneration and alleviating skin problems like dark spots and acne.

[0005] Meanwhile, ultrasound generators with a movable ultrasound generator element that allows for a variety of ultrasound beam locations have been developed to facilitate treatment. However, conventional ultrasound generators have the disadvantage of making it difficult for the practitioner to recognize the location of the ultrasound generator element and the focused ultrasound beam in real time. If the ultrasound generator element does not move for some reason, resulting in repeated focused ultrasound waves in the same location, this can lead to skin damage.

[0006] This problem may be due to the fact that the movement speed of the ultrasound generator and the ultrasound frequency are set independently. For example, if the movement speed of the ultrasound generator is 1 cm / s and the ultrasound frequency is set to 1 Hz, theoretically, one ultrasound pulse can be expected to be emitted per 1 cm. However, during prolonged treatment, these settings may not be maintained for various reasons, resulting in an excessive number of ultrasound pulses being emitted over a narrow area, contrary to the intention, or conversely, insufficiently densely emitted ultrasound pulses.

[0007] Accordingly, the present invention aims to provide an ultrasound generating device that enables a practitioner to recognize the ultrasound irradiation location in real time. Furthermore, it aims to provide an ultrasound generating device capable of distributing the ultrasound irradiation location more regularly and evenly.

[0008] Another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a method for controlling the above ultrasonic generator.

[0009] Another problem that the present invention seeks to solve is to provide a cartridge used in the above ultrasonic generator.

[0010] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the technical tasks mentioned above, and other technical tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem, an ultrasonic generator includes a cartridge, wherein the cartridge includes an ultrasonic generator element disposed within a housing; a guide member that moves the ultrasonic generator element in one direction; a first sensing element that moves in one direction together with the ultrasonic generator element; and second sensing elements fixedly arranged at a plurality of positions on the housing, the second sensing elements recognizing the position of the ultrasonic generator element through interaction with the first sensing element.

[0012] Each of the first sensing element and the second sensing element may include a magnet.

[0013] The above ultrasonic generator may further include a light emitting module or a vibration module.

[0014] At this time, the light emitting module or vibration module may be configured to operate based on the positional relationship between the first sensing element and the second sensing element.

[0015] Additionally, the cartridge may further include a Peltier element disposed on the housing; and a temperature sensor module disposed within the housing.

[0016] The second sensing elements may be arranged spaced apart in the one direction, and when the first sensing element moves in the one direction and the distance to any second sensing element among the plurality of second sensing elements becomes close to a predetermined degree, the ultrasonic generator may be configured to generate ultrasonic waves.

[0017] Additionally, the unidirectional movement speed of the ultrasonic generating element may be configured differently on the central side and the edge side of the guide member.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above-described other problems, a cartridge for an ultrasonic generator comprises: a nonvolatile memory; an ultrasonic generator arranged in a housing; a guide member for moving the ultrasonic generator in one direction; a first sensing element for moving in one direction together with the ultrasonic generator; and second sensing elements fixedly arranged at a plurality of positions on the housing, the second sensing elements recognizing the position of the ultrasonic generator through interaction with the first sensing element.

[0019] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description.

[0020] According to embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to enable the practitioner to recognize the treatment location, i.e., the focused location of ultrasound, and to prevent problems such as skin damage.

[0021] In addition, it can enable uniform ultrasound irradiation even when long-term treatment is performed.

[0022] The effects according to the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the contents exemplified above, and more diverse effects are included in the present specification.

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the device of Figure 1.

[0025] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the handpiece and cartridge of the device of Figure 1.

[0026] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the cartridge of Figure 3.

[0027] Figures 5 and 6 are cross-sectional schematic diagrams each for explaining the operation of the cartridge of Figure 4.

[0028] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a cartridge of an ultrasonic generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing a control method of an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the operation signal of the ultrasonic generator in the control method of Fig. 8.

[0031] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below, along with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided solely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. The present invention is defined solely by the scope of the claims.

[0032] Furthermore, the scope of a patent claim does not describe the technical content that constitutes the substance of the invention, but rather indicates the scope of rights claimed based on the technical components disclosed in the detailed description of the invention. Therefore, it is inevitable that the patent claim is composed of abstract, superordinate concepts encompassing the technology disclosed in the detailed description of the invention. If a person skilled in the art can understand the technical components within the claim, or their combination and operational effects, throughout the entire specification, the patent claim should be considered supported by the detailed description of the invention.

[0033] That is, various modifications may be made to the embodiments presented in the present invention. The embodiments described below are not intended to limit the embodiments, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereto.

[0034] If any term described in this specification is intended to be used with a specific meaning, that meaning must be defined and interpreted accordingly. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in this specification may be used in their common sense to those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries are not to be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly and specifically defined otherwise.

[0035] In this specification, "and / or" includes each and every combination of the items mentioned. In addition, the singular also includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase. As used herein, "comprises" and / or "comprising" do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components in addition to the mentioned components. A numerical range indicated using "to" indicates a numerical range that includes the values ​​stated before and after it as the lower and upper limits, respectively. The terms "about" or "approximately" mean a value or numerical range that is within 20% of the value or numerical range stated after it.

[0036] In this specification, ordinal modifiers such as “first component,” “second component,” and “1-1st component” are used to simply distinguish one component from another. Therefore, the first component referred to below may be referred to as the second component within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention. For example, what is referred to as the first component in one embodiment may be referred to as the second component in another embodiment. Furthermore, what is referred to as the first component in the description of the invention may of course be referred to as the second component in the claims.

[0037] The first direction (X) means any direction within the plane, the second direction (Y) means another direction intersecting or perpendicular to the first direction (X) within the plane, and the third direction (Z) means another direction intersecting or perpendicular to the plane.

[0038] The size, thickness, width, length, etc. of the components illustrated in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience and clarity of explanation, and therefore the present invention is not limited to the illustrated form.

[0039] Spatially relative terms such as 'above', 'upper', 'on', 'below', 'beneath', and 'lower' can be used to easily describe the relationship between one element or component and other elements or components as depicted in the drawings. Spatially relative terms should be understood to include different orientations of elements when used in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if an element depicted in a drawing is flipped, an element described as 'below' or 'beneath' another element may actually be 'above' the other element. Thus, the exemplary term 'below' can include both above and below directions.

[0040] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0041] Fig. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram of the device of Fig. 1.

[0042] First, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the ultrasonic generator (10) according to the present embodiment may include a main body (100), a handpiece (200), and a cartridge (300).

[0043] The main body (100) (or first computing device) may include a hardware configuration including a first processor (101) for a user (e.g., a practitioner) to operate or control the ultrasound generating device (10). In an exemplary embodiment, the main body (100) may include a first processor (101) (or main body processor), a first memory (102) (or main body memory), and further include a first interface (103) (or main body interface).

[0044] The first processor (101) can implement operations and / or functions related to the method according to the present invention based on instructions according to software in which the control method according to the present invention is implemented and loaded into the first memory (102). That is, the first processor (101) can be understood as a subject that performs or executes a program. For example, by executing software, it can control hardware components and / or software components connected to the first processor (101) and perform data processing or calculation. That is, the first processor (101) can store instructions or data received from other components in the first memory (102) as part of data processing or calculation, process instructions or data stored in the first memory (102), or store result data in the first memory (102). The first processor (101) and / or the first memory (102) may also be referred to as a first control section or a first control unit.

[0045] The first processor (101) may utilize a known one, but may be implemented through, for example, an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), DSPs (Digital Signal Processors), DSPDs (Digital Signal Processing Devices), PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), a processor, a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, or other chipsets, logic circuits, and / or data processing devices.

[0046] The software or program residing in the first memory (102) or stored in the storage (or first storage) may be a computer program recorded on a recording medium to execute the control method described below. The computer program may be a program that is readable by being stored on a storage medium and executable by being coupled to a computer.

[0047] The first memory (102) can store various data used in at least one component. The data may include input data or output data for software and related commands. The first memory (102) may be implemented through a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a flash memory, a memory card, a storage medium, and / or other storage devices.

[0048] The first memory (102) can load the computer program from storage. The storage can store application programming interfaces (APIs), libraries, resource files, etc. necessary for executing software implementing the control method according to the present invention. Furthermore, the storage can store software and databases implementing the method. The contents of various databases required to perform operations and / or functions related to the method according to the present invention, which will be described later, will be understood.

[0049] In the case of implementation by firmware or software in the control method described below, it can be implemented in the form of modules, codes, code segments, procedures, functions, etc. that include instructions that perform the described functions or operations, and can be recorded on a recording medium that can be read by various computer means. Here, the recording medium can include program commands, data files, data structures, etc., alone or in combination. In this case, each component in the configuration diagram or block diagram can mean a module, segment, or part of code that includes one or more executable instructions for executing a specific logical function. Therefore, it goes without saying that the function provided by the component in the configuration diagram or block diagram can be implemented by a plurality of more detailed components, or the plurality of components in the configuration diagram or block diagram can be implemented by a single integrated component. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the present invention, each component can be selectively combined and operated one or more times. In addition, all components can be implemented as a single independent hardware, or some or all of the components can be selectively combined to be implemented as a computer program having a program module that performs some or all of the functions combined in one or more hardware. The codes and code segments that constitute the computer program can be easily inferred by a person skilled in the art of the present invention.

[0050] The program commands recorded on the recording medium in this specification may be those specifically designed and configured for the present invention, or may be those known and usable by those skilled in the art of computer software. For example, the recording medium includes magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes, optical media such as CD-ROMs (Compact Disk Read Only Memory) and DVDs (Digital Video Disks), magneto-optical media such as floptical disks, and hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program commands, such as ROMs, RAMs, and flash memories. Examples of program commands may include not only machine language codes generated by a compiler, but also high-level language codes that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. Such hardware devices may be configured to operate as one or more software to perform the operations of the present invention, and vice versa.

[0051] The handpiece (200) (or the second computing device, or the second terminal) may include a second processor (201) and operate under the control of the main body (100) or generate another operation signal. In an exemplary embodiment, the handpiece (200) includes a second processor (201) (or a handpiece processor), and may further include a second memory (202) (or a handpiece memory), a second interface (203) (or a handpiece interface), a light-emitting module (204), and / or a vibration module (205). The handpiece (200) is connected to the main body (100) via a cable, and a user, for example, a practitioner, may hold the handpiece (200) in his / her hand and perform a procedure.

[0052] The second processor (201) and the second memory (202) may have the same functions, necessity, operation method, etc. as the first processor (101) and the first memory (102) described above, except that they are included in the handpiece (200) and provide functions, and thus, overlapping descriptions are omitted. The second processor (201) and / or the second memory (202) may also be referred to as a second control unit or a second control section.

[0053] The cartridge (300) (or third computing device, or third terminal) may include a third processor (301) and may operate under the control of the main body (100) and / or the handpiece (200), or may generate another operation signal. In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge (300) includes a third processor (301) (or cartridge processor), and may further include a third memory (302) (or cartridge memory), a third interface (303) (or cartridge interface), and sensing elements (304).

[0054] The main body (100), handpiece (200), and cartridge (300) are electrically connected using the first interface (103) to the third interface (303) described above and can transmit and receive data. In this specification, an interface refers to a configuration for converting an electrical signal into data that can be processed by another component or a user.

[0055] For example, each of the first interface (103) to the third interface (303) may include a communication interface, an input interface, and / or an output interface.

[0056] The above communication interface may provide a function for establishing a transmission and reception channel of electrical signals for transmitting and receiving data with other external components, particularly a computing device including its own processor. The above communication interface may be implemented in a wired or wireless manner. The first interface (103) and the second interface (203) may support communication or connection between the main body (100) and the handpiece (200), and the second interface (203) and the third interface (303) may support communication or connection between the handpiece (200) and the cartridge (300).

[0057] The above input interface is for processing a user's operation into a command or data that can be processed by a processor or the like via an electrical signal, and may include a touch panel, touch pad, keyboard, mouse, foot switch, joystick, or other physical buttons. In addition, the above output interface is for outputting the result of data processing by the processor via an electrical signal, and may include a display or the like.

[0058] Meanwhile, as described above, the handpiece assembly including the handpiece (200) and the cartridge (300) is configured to transmit and receive electrical signals with the main body (100) via a cable, and the handpiece assembly may function as an input device and / or an output device for the main body (100). For example, a user may press an operation button (200b) provided on the handpiece (200) to generate request information for generating ultrasonic waves, and the first processor (101) of the main body (100) may obtain the request information. In this respect, the handpiece (200) and / or the handpiece assembly may be an input device of the main body (100). In another example, the first processor (101) may generate a signal for generating ultrasonic waves and operate the ultrasonic generating element of the cartridge (300) based on the output information. In this respect, the cartridge (300) and / or the handpiece assembly may be an output device of the main body (100).

[0059] The various hardware components of FIG. 2 described above are connected through a data bus, and information can be transmitted between each component through the data bus.

[0060] Fig. 1 illustrates a display built into the main body (100) that outputs various status information. For non-limiting examples, the frequency, focus depth, shooting count, and remaining count on the left side can display status information of the oscillating head (200). Additionally, the power and pulse count on the right side of the display can be values ​​set by the user.

[0061] Here, the ultrasonic frequency is pre-specified by the ultrasonic generating element built into the cartridge (300) described later, and may refer to the frequency of the ultrasonic waves being generated. The ultrasonic frequency may be about 2 MHz to 10 MHz, or about 2 MHz to about 7 MHz, or about 2 MHz to 4 MHz.

[0062] In addition, the depth of focus (or focal depth or focusing distance) may be predetermined or variable by combination with the ultrasound generating element itself or other components of the cartridge (300). For example, when the depth of focus is 4.5 mm, ultrasound may be focused within an error range of about 0.5 mm, or about 0.4 mm, or about 0.3 mm, or about 0.2 mm based on a distance of about 4.5 mm from the lower end of the cartridge (300) that contacts the skin of the subject.

[0063] The ultrasonic shooting count and remaining count will be described later.

[0064] Ultrasonic intensity (power) refers to the amount of focused ultrasound. As intensity increases, the amount of energy provided by the focused ultrasound may increase. For example, ultrasonic intensity may correspond to the pulse width of ultrasound oscillating in the form of a pulse signal, or in other words, the on-time (1 pulse on time) of the pulse. The intensity may be understood as an intensity expressed in units of joules (J), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0065] In addition, the number of ultrasonic pulses (pulse) may refer to the pulse period of ultrasonic waves oscillating in the form of a pulse signal. As described later, the user may provide an ultrasonic pulse set (set) operation signal by operating the operation button (200b) provided on the handpiece (200). In this case, instead of pressing the operation button (200b) each time to generate a single pulse set, if the operation button (200b) is kept pressed, pulse sets may be generated continuously. In this case, the pulse period may refer to the period of the ultrasonic oscillation signal that is continuously generated. For example, if the pulse period is 1 Hz, ultrasonic waves in the form of a pulse signal that forms one pulse set per second and has a pause period may be oscillated while the operation button (200b) is pressed. Alternatively, if the pulse period is 2 Hz, ultrasonic waves in the form of a pulse signal that forms two pulse sets per second and has a pause period may be oscillated while the operation button (200b) is pressed. The pulse set will be described later.

[0066] That is, both the increase in the ultrasound intensity and pulse number can contribute to an increase in the amount of energy applied to the subject.

[0067] Next, a handpiece assembly including a handpiece (200) and a cartridge (300) will be described. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view showing the handpiece and cartridge of the device of Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the cartridge of Fig. 3.

[0068] Referring further to FIGS. 3 and 4, the cartridge (300) is mechanically coupled to the handpiece (200), and the user (the operator) can use the cartridge (300) by holding the handpiece (200) in his / her hand and bringing it into contact with the skin of the operator.

[0069] The handpiece (200) may include a grip portion (200g) and a mounting portion (200s) to which a cartridge (300) is coupled. A mounting groove (215) and a terminal (220) are formed in the mounting portion (200s) to mechanically fix the cartridge (300). The handpiece (200) and the cartridge (300) may be electrically connected through the terminal (220). The grip portion (200g) may be provided with an operation button (200b). When an on signal is input to the operation button (200b), ultrasonic waves may be generated from the ultrasonic generation element (320) of the cartridge (300), which will be described later, by the operation of the processors (101, 201, 301) described above.

[0070] The handpiece (200) may be equipped with the second processor (201), the second memory (202), and the second interface (203) described above. In addition, in some embodiments, the handpiece (200) may be equipped with a vibration module (205) and a light-emitting module (204) so ​​that light can be emitted through the exterior of the handpiece (200). The vibration module (205) may be exemplified by an eccentric rotor, and the light-emitting module (204) may be exemplified by an LED, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, as described below, the cartridge (300) may include an ultrasonic generating element (320) configured to reciprocate linearly along the first direction (X). At this time, when the cartridge (300) and the handpiece (200) are combined, the light emitting modules (204) may be provided in multiple units spaced apart in the first direction (X) so as to visually display the position of the ultrasonic generating element (320). However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the light emitting modules (204) may also have a line shape extending in the first direction (X).

[0071] The cartridge (300) can be coupled to the mounting portion (200s) of the handpiece (200). The cartridge (300) includes a housing (310), and the housing (310) can have a shape corresponding to the mounting portion (200s) so that it can be mounted on the mounting portion (200s). The housing (310) forms the exterior of the cartridge (300) and can provide a space in which various components are arranged inside. The housing (310) can include a lower housing (311) and an upper housing (312), and these can be configured to be coupled. This can increase the convenience of assembling the cartridge (300).

[0072] The lower housing (311) may have a shape in which the lower end is partially opened (310p). The opening (310p) of the lower housing (311) may form an emission port through which ultrasonic waves are emitted. In addition, a film-shaped ultrasonic transmitting member (370) may be placed in the opening (310p) formed by the lower housing (311). The ultrasonic transmitting member (370) may be made of a thin material that allows ultrasonic waves to pass through, compared to the housing (310) which is made of a relatively thick and hard material. For example, the ultrasonic transmitting member (370) may be made of a thin film of polycarbonate, etc.

[0073] As described above, the lower opening (310p) of the lower housing (311) can be sealed by an ultrasonic transmitting member (370), and the upper portion can be covered by an upper housing (312) to form a sealed internal space (IS). In addition, the internal space (IS) can be filled with a liquid medium. The liquid medium can suppress the loss of ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic generating element (320) and allow the ultrasonic waves to be transmitted toward the ultrasonic transmitting member (370).

[0074] A circuit board (360) may be placed inside the housing (310), for example, near the upper portion of the housing (310) in the third direction (Z). The aforementioned third processor (301), third memory (302), and third interface (303) may be placed on the circuit board (360). In addition, the cartridge (300) may include a configuration capable of receiving or storing power through electrical connection with the handpiece (200) and the main body (100).

[0075] The cartridge (300) may include an ultrasonic generating element (320). The ultrasonic generating element (320) may generate ultrasonic waves according to a signal provided by a processor, for example, a third processor (301). The ultrasonic generating element (320) may include an ultrasonic transducer. That is, the ultrasonic generating element (320) refers to an element configured to generate ultrasonic waves according to an electrical signal. The ultrasonic generating element (320) may be a known element, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0076] The ultrasonic generating element (320) may be arranged to be linearly movable in the first direction (X) within the internal space (IS) of the cartridge (300). In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge (300) may further include a guide bar (330) and / or a linear guide (340) (or a guide member). The ultrasonic generating element (320) may be fastened to the guide bar (330) and the linear guide (340). The guide bar (330) may extend in the first direction (X) and may be inserted into a connecting frame portion (350). The guide bar (330) and the linear guide (340) may assist the ultrasonic generating element (320) to linearly move in the first direction (X) without tilting. The linear guide (340) may be implemented with a ball screw or the like, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, various mechanical structures may be adopted to move the ultrasonic generating element (320) linearly in the first direction (X).

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, a screw thread is formed on the surface of the linear guide (340), and the ultrasonic generating element (320) and the fixed connecting frame part (350) can move to one side in the first direction (X) according to the rotation of the linear guide (340). In addition, the ultrasonic generating element (320) can also move to one side in the first direction (X) according to the movement of the connecting frame part (350).

[0078] A sealing member (380) may be arranged on the surface of the linear guide (340). The sealing member (380) may have flexibility and elasticity to prevent the linear guide (340) from being exposed. In addition, the sealing member (380) may have wrinkles formed therein. As described above, the internal space (IS) may be filled with a liquid medium. The sealing member (380) may be arranged so that the linear guide (340) does not come into contact with the liquid medium. To this end, one end of the sealing member (380) may be attached to the housing (310), for example, the lower housing (311), and the other end may be attached to the connecting frame part (350). Through this, despite the movement of the connecting frame part (350) in the first direction (X), the sealing member (380) may be stretched with its wrinkles and flexibility to maintain a state of wrapping the linear guide (340). That is, a linear guide (340) is placed in the internal space surrounded by the sealing member (380), and a liquid medium may not be present.

[0079] A first sensing element (304a) may be arranged on the connecting frame portion (350). Even when the connecting frame portion (350) moves, the connecting frame portion (350) and the first sensing element (304a) may be configured to maintain their relative positions with respect to each other. Accordingly, the relative positions between the first sensing element (304a) and the ultrasonic generator (320) may also be maintained. The first sensing element (304a) may include a magnet, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and any other element may be used as long as it can induce an electric signal through interaction with the second sensing elements (304b) described later.

[0080] Additionally, the cartridge (300) may include second sensing elements (304b). A plurality of second sensing elements (304b) may be provided. The second sensing elements (304b) may be fixedly arranged on a circuit board (360). The second sensing elements (304b) may induce an electrical signal through interaction with the first sensing element (304a). For example, each of the second sensing elements (304b) may include a magnet.

[0081] Hereinafter, the operation of the cartridge (300) of the ultrasonic generator (10) according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 are cross-sectional schematic diagrams for explaining the operation of the cartridge of FIG. 4, respectively. Specifically, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a case where an ultrasonic generator (320), a connecting frame part (350) mechanically connected thereto, and a first sensing element (304a) move to the left in the first direction (X) from any position, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing a case where an ultrasonic generator (320), a connecting frame part (350) mechanically connected thereto, and a first sensing element (304a) move to the right in the first direction (X) from any position.

[0082] First, referring to FIG. 5, the linear guide (340) rotates in one direction according to the operation of the motor (not shown), and accordingly, the connecting frame part (350) and the ultrasonic generating element (320) and the first sensing element (304a) connected thereto can move horizontally to the left.

[0083] And, depending on the movement of the first sensing element (304a), the magnetic force applied to the second sensing elements (304b) by the first sensing element (304a) may change. For example, the magnetic force between the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) and the first sensing element (304a) among the second sensing elements (304b) may decrease, and the magnetic force between the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) and the first sensing element (304a) may increase.

[0084] Next, referring to FIG. 6, the linear guide (340) rotates in the other direction according to the operation of the motor, and accordingly, the connecting frame part (350) and the ultrasonic generating element (320) and the second sensing element (304b) connected thereto can move horizontally to the right.

[0085] And, depending on the movement of the first sensing element (304a), the magnetic force applied to the second sensing elements (304b) by the first sensing element (304a) may change. For example, the magnetic force between the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) among the second sensing elements (304b) and the first sensing element (304a) may decrease, and the magnetic force between the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) and the first sensing element (304a) may increase.

[0086] As described above, the second sensing elements (304b) are arranged in a plurality of spaced apart manners along the direction of movement of the ultrasonic generating element (320), i.e., the first direction (X), and different magnetic forces are applied and detected depending on the positions of the ultrasonic generating element (320) and the first sensing element (304a). In addition, the processors (101, 201, 301) can operate the vibration module (205) and / or the light emitting module (204) of the handpiece (200) based on the signal applied to the second sensing element (304b). That is, the vibration module (205) and / or the light emitting module (204) can be operated based on the positional relationship between the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing elements (304b).

[0087] For example, the second sensing elements (304b) may be fixed in position, and the light emitting module (204) may be operated at a position corresponding to the position of the first sensing element (304a) determined by the interaction between the second sensing elements (304b) and the first sensing element (304a). This allows the operator to intuitively and visually recognize the position of the ultrasonic generating element (320).

[0088] In an exemplary embodiment, the ultrasonic generator (10) and its cartridge (300) according to the present embodiment may operate the ultrasonic generator (320) based on the interaction between the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b), rather than generating ultrasonic waves according to a predetermined time interval.

[0089] As previously described, the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b) may have different magnetic forces applied depending on their relative distances. In this case, the ultrasonic generator (320) may be configured to operate when a magnetic force (attractive force or repulsive force) greater than or exceeding a reference value is applied to any of the second sensing elements (304b). The above control may be performed by the third processor (301), but the present invention is not limited thereto, and may also be controlled by the first processor (101) or the second processor (201).

[0090] To be more specific, when a magnetic force that is equal to or greater than a reference value is applied to one of the plurality of second sensing elements (304b), the ultrasonic generator (320) may oscillate and the vibration module (205) may operate. In addition, the light-emitting module (204) at a position corresponding to the second sensing element (304b) to which the magnetic force exceeding the reference value is applied may operate. In this case, when the ultrasonic generator (320) oscillates, vibration is induced by the vibration module (205), allowing the operator and the subject to intuitively determine whether or not ultrasonic waves are generated.

[0091] In other words, when the moving first sensing element (304a) gets closer to one of the plurality of arranged second sensing elements (304b) by a distance equal to or less than a reference distance, that is, by a predetermined distance, the ultrasonic generator (320) may oscillate and the vibration module (205) may operate. In addition, the light-emitting module (204) at a position corresponding to the second sensing element (304b) that has become closer to the first sensing element (304a) by a predetermined distance may operate.

[0092] For example, when the first sensing element (304a), which was positioned closer to the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) than the 2-2 sensing element (304b2), moves to the left, i.e., toward the 2-2 sensing element (304b2), the ultrasonic generator (320) may operate at the moment when the first sensing element (304a) and the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) come closer to a predetermined distance or a magnetic force of a predetermined reference value level is detected. For another example, when the first sensing element (304a), which was positioned closer to the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) than the 2-1 sensing element (304b1), moves to the right, i.e., toward the 2-1 sensing element (304b1), the ultrasonic generator (320) may operate at the moment when the first sensing element (304a) and the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) become closer by a predetermined distance or when a magnetic force of a predetermined reference value level is detected.

[0093] That is, the ultrasonic generator (320) according to the present invention does not generate ultrasonic waves at a predetermined cycle, but can generate ultrasonic waves based on the magnitude of the magnetic force detected by the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b).

[0094] As a non-limiting example, let's explain a case where the generation cycle of ultrasound is predetermined and ultrasound is generated based on time information. If the maximum round-trip distance of the ultrasound generating element is 4 cm, the moving speed is 1 cm / s, and the ultrasound generation cycle is set to 1 Hz, then theoretically, ultrasound can be generated once per 1 cm. In addition, it can be expected that ultrasound will be generated at the leftmost starting position, 1 cm, 2 cm (center position), 3 cm, and 4 cm (rightmost position) from the starting position during the round-trip distance. However, the above settings may not be maintained for various reasons during a long-term treatment.

[0095] On the other hand, if the ultrasonic generator (320) is configured to generate ultrasonic waves based on the position information of the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b) as in the present embodiment, the above problem can be solved. That is, the ultrasonic wave generation may be performed not based on preset time information, but by an arrangement of the second sensing elements (304b) whose positions are physically fixed. In other words, the ultrasonic generator (320) according to the present invention may not be configured to operate at preset time intervals (or cycles).

[0096] Therefore, even if the procedure is prolonged, regular ultrasound examinations at relatively precise locations can be expected, allowing the practitioner to perform more precise procedures and more even and uniform ultrasound examinations.

[0097] In addition, by configuring as in the present embodiment, the irradiation position of the ultrasonic waves can be diversified. For example, based on a second sensing element (304b), for example, a 2-1 sensing element (304b1), when the ultrasonic generator (320) moves to the left and gets closer to the 2-1 sensing element (304b1), and when it moves to the right and gets closer to the 2-1 sensing element (304b1), the irradiation position of the ultrasonic waves can be made different. In both of the above cases, the point that the ultrasonic waves are generated through the interaction between the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) and the 1st sensing element (304a) is the same, but the timing of the input signal provided to the ultrasonic generator (320) in the case of the leftward movement and the rightward movement may be different due to the width in the first direction (X) physically occupied by the 2-1 sensing element (304b1). For example, when the ultrasonic generator (320) moves to the left and is irradiated, ultrasonic waves may be generated at a point slightly to the right of the 2-1 sensing element (304b1), and when the ultrasonic generator (320) moves to the right and is irradiated, ultrasonic waves may be generated at a point slightly to the left of the 2-1 sensing element (304b1).

[0098] In particular, when the ultrasonic generator (320) moves back and forth in a straight line in the internal space (IS) of the housing (310), the focus position of the ultrasonic waves can be diversified and more uniform treatment can be achieved only with the hardware configuration of the cartridge (300) without the operator having to adjust the ultrasonic irradiation position based on his / her own experience, etc.

[0099] In some embodiments, the cartridge (300) may further include a Peltier element (not shown) and / or a temperature sensor module (not shown) disposed on the housing (310), for example, externally or internally of the housing (310).

[0100] The Peltier element may include a heating surface that generates heat and a heat-absorbing surface that absorbs heat in response to an electrical signal. In this case, the Peltier element may be positioned near the opening (310p) with the heat-absorbing surface facing the subject. Accordingly, the subject may experience a cooling sensation rather than a thermal sensation due to the ultrasound irradiation.

[0101] Additionally, a temperature sensor module may be positioned anywhere within the housing (310). The temperature sensor module may be configured to detect the temperature of the liquid medium filled in the internal space (IS). If the temperature of the liquid medium is above or exceeds a reference value, the temperature sensor module may be configured to generate an alarm signal. This allows the operator to intuitively determine whether the cartridge (300) is overheated.

[0102] Hereinafter, other embodiments of the present invention will be described. However, descriptions of configurations substantially identical or extremely similar to the aforementioned embodiments will be omitted, as those skilled in the art will readily understand these from the accompanying drawings.

[0103] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a cartridge of an ultrasonic generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 7, a cartridge (300') of an ultrasonic generator (not shown) according to the present embodiment includes a housing (311, 312), an ultrasonic generator element (320) disposed within the housing (311, 312), a first detection element (304a) mechanically connected to the ultrasonic generator element (320), and further includes a plurality of second detection elements (304b), but is different from the above-described embodiment in that the distances between the second detection elements (304b) are configured differently.

[0105] As described above, a plurality of second sensing elements (304b) may be arranged with their positions fixed on the circuit board (360). The second sensing elements (304b) may include a 2-1 sensing element (304b1) positioned at the center of the first direction (X) movement path of the ultrasonic generator (320), and may further include a 2-2 sensing element (304b2), a 2-3 sensing element (304b3), and a 2-4 sensing element (304b4) sequentially arranged in the outer direction. The 2-1 sensing element (304b1) and the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) may be closest to each other in the first direction (X), the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) and the 2-3 sensing element (304b3) may be closest to each other in the first direction (X), and the 2-3 sensing element (304b3) and the 2-4 sensing element (304b4) may be closest to each other in the first direction (X). The 2-2 sensing elements (304b) may be arranged symmetrically in the first direction (X) with the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) as the center. FIG. 7 illustrates a case where a total of seven second sensing elements (304b) are arranged, including one second-first sensing element (304b1) and two symmetrically arranged second-second sensing elements (304b2), second-third sensing elements (304b3), and second-fourth sensing elements (304b4), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0106] The separation distances between the plurality of second sensing elements (304b) may be different from each other. The separation distance between the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) and the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) may be defined as the first separation distance (D1), the separation distance between the 2-2 sensing element (304b2) and the 2-3 sensing element (304b3) may be defined as the second separation distance (D2), and the separation distance between the 2-3 sensing element (304b3) and the 2-4 sensing element (304b4) may be defined as the third separation distance (D3). In this case, the first separation distance (D1) may be greater than the second separation distance (D2), and the second separation distance (D2) may be greater than the third separation distance (D3). For example, the first separation distance (D1) may be at least 1.2 times the second separation distance (D2), and the second separation distance (D2) may be at least 1.2 times the third separation distance (D3).

[0107] As described above, the oscillation of the ultrasonic generator (320) may be performed not at a predetermined time interval, but by the interaction between the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b). Therefore, when the first separation distance (D1) to the third separation distance (D3) are different from each other, the oscillation time interval of the ultrasonic waves may vary when the first direction (X) movement speed of the ultrasonic generator (320) is maintained the same.

[0108] That is, when the ultrasonic generating element (320) is positioned at the center and moves toward the edge (for example, when moving from the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) to the 2-4 sensing element (304b4) side), even if the moving speed of the ultrasonic generating element (320) remains the same, the oscillation time interval of the ultrasonic waves may decrease as it moves toward the edge. On the other hand, when the ultrasonic generating element (320) is positioned at the edge and moves toward the center (for example, when moving from the 2-4 sensing element (304b4) to the 2-1 sensing element (304b1) side), even if the moving speed of the ultrasonic generating element (320) remains the same, the oscillation time interval of the ultrasonic waves may increase as it moves toward the center.

[0109] The ultrasonic generating element (320) of the cartridge (300') according to the present embodiment can reciprocate within the movement range of the internal space of the cartridge (300'). Therefore, when the cartridge (300') is placed in a certain area and operated, the frequency at which ultrasonic waves are irradiated at a position near the center of the cartridge (300') in the first direction (X) may be greater than the frequency at which ultrasonic waves are irradiated at a position near the edge of the first direction (X). This causes non-uniformity in the procedure, and to resolve this, the operator must continuously move the handpiece to ensure uniform ultrasonic irradiation. However, according to the present embodiment, as in the previous embodiment, not only can the ultrasonic irradiation positions be diversified by the physical width occupied by the second sensing elements (304b), but also the ultrasonic irradiation frequencies at the center and edge of the first direction (X) can be configured differently to achieve more uniform ultrasonic irradiation.

[0110] In another embodiment, the first direction (X) movement speed of the ultrasonic generating element may not be maintained uniformly, but may be configured to have a movement speed smaller at the edge side than at the center side. This may allow the frequency of ultrasonic irradiation at the center side in the first direction (X) to be smaller than at the edge side, and may achieve an overall more uniform ultrasonic irradiation.

[0111] Hereinafter, a control method of an ultrasonic irradiation device according to the present invention will be described.

[0112] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of an ultrasonic generator according to one embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation signal of an ultrasonic generator element in the control method of Fig. 8.

[0113] Referring further to FIGS. 8 and 9, the control method according to the present embodiment includes a step of obtaining operation request information of an ultrasonic generating element (S100), and a step of generating an operation signal of the ultrasonic generating element in response to the request information (S400), but may further include a step of collecting count information (S200), a step of comparing the count number with a predetermined number of times (S300), and a step of counting and updating the number of operation signals (S510, S520, S530).

[0114] As described above, when a user (e.g., a practitioner) holds the handpiece (200) in his / her hand and presses the operation button (200b), operation request information for the ultrasonic generating element (320) is generated, and a processor, e.g., the first processor (101), can obtain the operation request information for the ultrasonic generating element (320). That is, when the operation button (200b) is pressed, an operation request for the ultrasonic generating element (320) can be performed at a predetermined cycle (or time interval) while the operation button (200b) is pushed.

[0115] In another embodiment, as described above, the operation request information for oscillation of the ultrasonic generating element (320) is not generated at a predetermined time interval, but the operation button (200b) only generates a signal for movement of the ultrasonic generating element (320) in the first direction (X), and the request signal for oscillation of the ultrasonic generating element (320) may be generated (S100) by the interaction of the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b).

[0116] And the first processor (101) generates an operation signal of the ultrasonic generating element (320) in response to the operation request information of the acquired ultrasonic generating element (320) (S100), and the operation of the ultrasonic generating element (320) can be initiated. Accordingly, the ultrasonic generating element (320) can generate ultrasonic waves having a predetermined intensity (power) and operating frequency (frequency), for example, a frequency in the range of about 2 MHz to 10 MHz.

[0117] In an exemplary embodiment, the operating signal of the ultrasonic generator (320) may be in the form of a pulse set including multiple pulse signals. FIG. 9 illustrates a case where one pulse set consists of four pulse signals, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In another embodiment, the operating signal may be provided as only one pulse signal rather than multiple pulse signals. Hereinafter, a case in which one pulse set signal is generated in response to one operating signal will be described as an example.

[0118] When the operating signal is provided as a pulse set, the number of pulses included in one pulse set may be predetermined, or may be calculated and varied in consideration of a predetermined intensity level, etc. In addition, the duration of an individual pulse constituting one pulse set (1 pulse on time, short pulse), the resting time between multiple pulses (pulse resting time), etc. may be predetermined, or may be calculated and varied in consideration of a predetermined intensity level, etc., but as a non-limiting example, the duration of an individual pulse and the resting time between pulses may be on the order of tens of microseconds (μs) to hundreds of milliseconds (ms), or hundreds of microseconds to several milliseconds. In addition, the duration times of multiple individual pulses constituting one pulse set may be set to be substantially the same. Similarly, the resting time between one or more individual pulses constituting one pulse set may be set to be substantially the same.

[0119] For example, in an embodiment where a user generates operation request information by pushing an operation button (200b), if the user maintains the state of pushing the operation button (200b), the period of one pulse set (1 pulse set, long pulse) may be determined according to a pre-specified pulse number (pulse). For example, if the pulse number is specified as 1 Hz, one pulse set period (period) including a section (pulse set on time) in which multiple pulse signals are applied and a pulse set resting time may be 1 second. Accordingly, while pressing the operation button (200b) for 10 seconds, 10 pulse set signals are generated, and in this case, a total of 40 pulse signals may be provided. For another specific example, if the pulse number is specified as 2 Hz, one pulse set period may be 0.5 second. Accordingly, while pressing the operation button (200b) for 10 seconds, 20 pulse set signals are generated, and in this case, a total of 80 pulse signals may be provided. Here, the pulse set pause may be greater than the individual pulse pauses described above.

[0120] For another example, in an embodiment in which the action request information is generated by the interaction between the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b), when the user presses the operation button (200b), the ultrasonic generating element (320) can perform a reciprocating movement in the first direction (X). In this embodiment, the number of pulses may be specified or not collected. When the first sensing element (304a) and the second sensing element (304b) come close to a predetermined distance, one pulse set signal including four pulse signals can be generated.

[0121] In any case, the ultrasonic generator (10) according to the present embodiment can generate a single pulse set signal including multiple pulse signals by a single dynamic request of the ultrasonic generator element. In addition, ultrasonic waves can be oscillated multiple times in response to the multiple pulse signals. Although the present invention is not limited thereto, when the ultrasonic generator according to the present embodiment is used for skin treatment or cosmetic purposes, counting the number of times ultrasonic waves are irradiated can be an important issue.

[0122] At this time, unlike the present invention, when one pulse signal is applied in response to one ultrasonic generator operation request information, that is, when the pulse set resting time of FIG. 9 does not exist, as described above, since one pulse signal on time is only tens of microseconds to hundreds of milliseconds, it is difficult to count or control the number of ultrasonic irradiations, and it may cause serious problems in the following respects.

[0123] For example, the pulse resting period between pulse signals can be a critical factor for effective skin stimulation. If the resting period is too short, skin tissue damage may occur, and if it is too long, the skin stimulation effect may be minimal. As mentioned above, since the duration of individual pulses (short pulse) and pulse resting time to exhibit skin stimulation effect without threatening safety cannot be significantly adjusted, users (i.e., practitioners) and recipients are forced to receive treatments at predetermined intervals, making it difficult to provide treatment that takes into account the recipient's condition, etc.

[0124] To prevent this, it may be considered that the user performs an action of intentionally pressing and releasing the operation button (200b) at intervals of several seconds, for example, pressing for 1 to 2 seconds and then stopping pressing the operation button (200b) for about 1 second. However, this is not only very tiring for the user, but it may also be difficult to operate effectively considering that the duration of a single pulse is tens of microseconds to hundreds of milliseconds.

[0125] Meanwhile, in another aspect, unlike the present invention, when a single pulse signal is generated in response to a single push of the operation button (200b), considering that it is practically impossible to press the operation button (200b) several times in one second, as described above, the single pulse duration is only tens of microseconds to hundreds of milliseconds, so the resting period time is actually prolonged and the skin stimulation effect may not be practically exhibited.

[0126] That is, according to the control method of the ultrasonic generator according to the present embodiment, by including several pulse signals in one pulse set and providing an appropriate pulse holding time and pulse pause, it is possible to induce sufficient skin stimulation effect, and at the same time, by securing a pause time between pulse sets of at least 0.5 seconds or more, or about 1 second or more, that is, on the scale of several hundred milliseconds to several seconds, it is possible to prevent skin damage and select a wide range of treatment methods.

[0127] Meanwhile, the control method of the ultrasonic generator according to the present embodiment may further include a step of collecting count information of an operation signal (S200), a step of comparing the collected count number with a predetermined number of times (S300), and a step of updating the count according to the generation of an operation signal of the ultrasonic generator (S500, S510, S520).

[0128] That is, the first processor (101) is electrically connected and can collect count information stored in the third memory (302) of the currently identified cartridge (300) (S200). Here, the count information may mean the number of times the ultrasonic generator element (320) of the cartridge (300) has received an operation signal of the ultrasonic generator element. Here, as described above, one operation signal of the ultrasonic generator element includes a plurality of pulse signals and corresponds to one pulse set including a pulse set resting period.

[0129] That is, even if one pulse set signal is generated by one ultrasonic generator operation signal, and one pulse set signal includes four individual pulse signals, and the ultrasonic generator (320) actually generates four ultrasonic waves, the number of times and count of the operation signal of the ultrasonic generator may be one.

[0130] The third memory (302) may be a non-volatile memory. Accordingly, even if the cartridge (300) does not have a separate power source and is disconnected from the main body (100) or the handpiece (200), the count information stored in the third memory (302) can be preserved. For example, even if the power supply to the main body (100) is cut off and then supplied again, the count information stored in the third memory (302) can be maintained. For another example, even if the cartridge (300) is disconnected and then reconnected to the handpiece (200), the count information stored in the third memory (302) can be maintained. For another example, even if a cartridge (300) connected to a handpiece is disconnected and connected to another handpiece (200), the count information stored in the third memory (302) of the cartridge (300) can be maintained. The count information stored in the third memory (302) can be displayed as a remaining count of an output device of the main body (100), such as a display device.

[0131] And the first processor (101) can compare the number of counts collected from the third memory (302) of the cartridge (300) with a pre-specified number of times, i.e., a numerical value (S300). If the pre-specified number of times is 10,000 times, it can be compared and determined whether the number of counts stored in the third memory (302) of the cartridge (300) is less than 10,000 times. Here, the pre-specified number of times can be understood as a database stored in the first memory (102) of the main body (100). Alternatively, the pre-specified number of times may be collected from the third memory (302) of the cartridge (300).

[0132] If the number of collected counts is less than or equal to a pre-specified number, the first processor (101) may operate the ultrasonic generator (320) as described above (S400). Here, one operation signal may mean one pulse set signal.

[0133] On the other hand, if the number of collected counts is greater than or equal to a predetermined number, or exceeds a predetermined number, for example, if a predetermined number is reached, the ultrasonic generator may not operate despite the ultrasonic generator operation request signal that has been acquired.

[0134] Meanwhile, when the ultrasonic generator operation signal is normally generated (S400) and the ultrasonic generator (320) of the cartridge (300) generates ultrasonic waves according to the ultrasonic pulse set signal, the first processor (101) (or other processors (201, 301)) can count and update the operation signal (S500, S510, S520). For example, the count number can increase by 1.

[0135] And the increased count number can be stored in the first memory (102) (S510) and / or the third memory (302) (S520). The updated count number stored in the third memory (302) can be reflected in the next count information collection step (S200). As described above, the count number collected from the third memory (302) can be displayed as the remaining count of the output device.

[0136] The first memory (102) may include volatile memory or non-volatile memory. In an exemplary embodiment, the collected count information may be stored in the volatile memory and initialized when the power supply to the main body (100) is cut off, or may be stored in the non-volatile memory and initialized when the power supply is cut off or according to a user operation. The count information stored in the first memory (102) may be displayed as the ultrasonic oscillation count of the main body (100). For example, when the power supply to the main body (100) is cut off after 50 oscillations have been counted in the first memory (102) and then the power is supplied again, the count information stored in the first memory (102) may be initialized and displayed as 0. In another example, the count information may be initialized through an initialization operation after 50 oscillations have been counted in the first memory (102). It goes without saying that the count information stored in the third memory (302) of the identified cartridge (300) is maintained despite the initialization of the count information of the first memory (102).

[0137] The count information stored in the first memory (102) described above may be related to the number of ultrasonic oscillations using the corresponding main body (100), and the count information stored in the third memory (302) may be related to the number of ultrasonic oscillations using the corresponding cartridge (300). Although the present invention is not limited thereto, when starting a procedure on a subject, the practitioner can recognize the number of ultrasonic oscillations irradiated to the subject by counting the number of oscillations anew in a state where the count information stored in the first memory (102) is initialized. Through this, it is possible to monitor whether an excessive amount of ultrasonic waves are irradiated.

[0138] On the other hand, the count information stored in the third memory (302) can be understood as a unique count number of the cartridge (300) and is related to the durability or lifespan of the cartridge (300). As described above, when the operation signal of the ultrasonic generator (320) is generated using the first detection element (304a) and the second detection element (304b), the reliability of the detection elements may be reduced due to the repetitive reciprocating movement of the first detection element (304a). Therefore, the lifespan of the cartridge (300) can be recognized by storing the number of ultrasonic waves generated using the cartridge (300) regardless of whether the main body (100) is powered on, whether the main body (100) or the handpiece (200) is changed, or whether the subject is changed, and outputting it through the display device of the main body (100).

[0139] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to embodiments, these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will appreciate that various modifications and applications not illustrated above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments of the present invention. For example, this specification should be understood to include a disclosure of an embodiment in which technical features disclosed in each of the multiple embodiments are combined, as long as the technical features disclosed in each of the multiple embodiments are not overlapped, conflicted, or contradictory.

[0140] Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be understood to include modifications, equivalents, or alternatives to the technical concepts exemplified above. For example, each component specifically illustrated in the embodiments of the present invention can be implemented with modifications. Furthermore, any differences related to such modifications and applications should be construed as being within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic generator including a cartridge, wherein the cartridge comprises: An ultrasonic generating element disposed within a housing; A guide member that moves the ultrasonic generating element in one direction; A first sensing element moving in one direction together with the ultrasonic generating element; and An ultrasonic generator comprising second sensing elements fixedly arranged at a plurality of positions on the housing, the second sensing elements recognizing the position of the ultrasonic generating element through interaction with the first sensing element.

2. Non-volatile memory; An ultrasonic generating element disposed within a housing; A guide member that moves the ultrasonic generating element in one direction; A first sensing element moving in one direction together with the ultrasonic generating element; and A cartridge for an ultrasonic generator, comprising second sensing elements fixedly arranged at a plurality of positions on the housing, the second sensing elements recognizing the position of the ultrasonic generator through interaction with the first sensing element.

3. In paragraph 1, The above ultrasonic generator further includes a light emitting module or a vibration module, An ultrasonic generator configured to operate the light-emitting module or the vibration module based on the positional relationship between the first sensing element and the second sensing element.

4. In the first paragraph, the cartridge, a Peltier element disposed on the housing; and An ultrasonic generator further comprising a temperature sensor module disposed within the housing.

5. In paragraph 1, The above second sensing elements are arranged spaced apart in the above one direction, An ultrasonic generating device configured such that when the first sensing element moves in the one direction and the distance between the first sensing element and any second sensing element among a plurality of second sensing elements becomes close to a predetermined degree, the ultrasonic generating element generates ultrasonic waves.

6. In paragraph 1, The one-way movement speed of the above ultrasonic generating element is: An ultrasonic generator having different configurations on the central and edge sides of the above guide member.

Images