Skin treatment device and tip module for skin treatment device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a skin treatment device and a tip module for a skin treatment device and, more specifically, to a skin treatment device for restoring skin biological tissue by using electromagnetic energy, the skin treatment device being characterized by comprising: a main body having an opening formed in one direction; an electrode module configured so that at least a portion is exposed to the opening; a cooling module configured to spray a cooling fluid toward the electrode module; and an electromagnetic energy (EME) generation module configured to supply electromagnetic energy to the electrode module, wherein the electrode module comprises an electrode array unit which emits the electromagnetic energy and is divided into at least two parts, and a temperature sensing unit configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the electrode array unit or the skin, and a cooling fluid blocking member is provided between the electrode module and the cooling module, the cooling fluid blocking member being configured so that a cooling fluid is sprayed directly toward the electrode array unit and prevented from being sprayed directly toward the temperature sensing unit when the cooling fluid is sprayed toward the electrode module by the cooling module.

Description

Skin treatment device and tip module for skin treatment device

[0001] The present invention relates to a skin treatment device and a tip module for a skin treatment device, and more specifically, to a device that applies electromagnetic energy to human skin tissue and uses the heat generated thereby to treat the tissue.

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a skin treatment device and a tip module for a skin treatment device that enable accurate temperature measurement by minimizing the influence of a temperature sensor configured adjacent to an electrode emitting an RF signal on a cooling fluid supplied to prevent overheating and burns.

[0003] The medical field has recently expanded beyond treating diseases and the body to include areas such as beauty, and in particular, interest in skin care devices and procedures for skin beauty and regeneration is continuously increasing.

[0004] One of the technologies that is gaining attention as a treatment method for skin beauty or treatment is a method that uses electromagnetic energy irradiation, which was developed to prevent side effects that occur in existing methods using botox or fillers.

[0005] Treatment using electromagnetic energy is a method of treating the skin by transmitting electromagnetic energy to the skin to change the state of the skin tissue in the treatment area or improve the tissue characteristics. Various energy sources such as lasers, flash lamps, and ultrasound are used, and recently, skin treatment devices using RF (Radio Frequency) energy are being actively researched and developed.

[0006] Looking more specifically, the method using electromagnetic energy treats and restores the skin by contacting the skin with an electrode that emits electromagnetic energy and applying heat to the skin's biological tissue (epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous fat, etc.), thereby causing contraction of collagen, etc. or inducing a wound healing response.

[0007] Meanwhile, skin treatment devices using electromagnetic energy are divided into contact skin treatment devices in which electrodes that emit electromagnetic energy come into contact with the skin surface, and invasive skin treatment devices in which electrodes are inserted into the skin. Among these, contact skin treatment devices that minimize traces of the procedure after the procedure are widely used.

[0008] Additionally, since treatments using electromagnetic energy generate heat in the skin's biological tissues and the recipient may feel pain due to this heat, additional techniques are included to alleviate this.

[0009] As one of the related technologies, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2023-0082856, 'RF electrode cartridge for skin beauty treatment for preventing burns and handpiece for skin cost treatment including the same' (hereinafter referred to as 'prior art'), forms a cooling space in which a cooling water is filled in the tip of the electrode to cool the skin below a certain temperature.

[0010] In addition, the prior art prevents accidents in which sparks are generated between the edge end of the RF electrode and the skin during treatment by positioning the edge end of the RF electrode, where RF energy is concentrated, toward the side of the tip, thereby preventing burns from occurring on the patient's skin during skin treatment using RF signals.

[0011] However, in the case of prior art, since the temperature sensor is located in the cooling space filled with coolant, there is a problem in that it is affected by the coolant, making it difficult to accurately measure the skin temperature.

[0012] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a skin treatment device and a tip module for a skin treatment device that can measure the temperature of the skin or the temperature of the electrode by the temperature sensor by configuring a temperature sensor adjacent to an electrode configured to contact the skin and supply electromagnetic energy to the skin tissue in a device for treating the skin by emitting electromagnetic energy in a contact manner.

[0013] In particular, the present invention aims to provide a skin treatment device and a tip module for a skin treatment device that can enable accurate temperature measurement by minimizing the influence of a temperature sensor positioned adjacent to an electrode on a cooling fluid supplied to prevent overheating and burns.

[0014] In order to achieve the above object, a skin treatment device for treating skin biological tissue using electromagnetic energy according to the present invention comprises: a main body having an opening formed in one direction; an electrode module configured such that at least a portion thereof is exposed to the opening; a cooling module configured to spray a cooling fluid toward the electrode module; and an EME (Electro Magnetic Energy) generating module configured to supply electromagnetic energy to the electrode module; wherein the electrode module comprises: an electrode configured to apply the electromagnetic energy to skin biological tissue; and a temperature sensing unit configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the electrode and the skin; and a cooling fluid blocking member configured to prevent the cooling fluid from being directly sprayed toward the temperature sensing unit when the cooling fluid is sprayed toward the electrode module by the cooling module; between the electrode module and the cooling module.

[0015] For example, the electrode module may include a flexible substrate formed to be foldable, and the electrode may include a conductive layer formed on an exposed surface of the flexible substrate exposed to the open portion to which electromagnetic energy is applied; and a dielectric layer formed by laminating the conductive layer and coming into contact with the skin surface during treatment.

[0016] For example, the flexible substrate may include a first surface facing the skin surface; and a second surface opposite the first surface; and the cooling module may be configured to spray the cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module.

[0017] For example, the temperature sensing unit may be placed on the second surface of the flexible substrate.

[0018] For example, the cooling fluid blocking member may include an insulating member configured to cover at least a portion of the second surface on which the temperature sensing unit is disposed.

[0019] For example, the cooling module may include a spray nozzle that sprays the cooling fluid toward the second surface, and the cooling fluid blocking member may include a fluid flow blocking member disposed between the second surface on which the temperature sensing unit is disposed and the spray nozzle.

[0020] For example, the electromagnetic energy may include at least one of visible light energy, infrared energy, microwave energy, and radio frequency energy.

[0021] A tip module configured to be detachably attached to a skin treatment device for treating skin biological tissue using electromagnetic energy according to the present invention may include: an electrode module including an electrode configured to apply electromagnetic energy to skin biological tissue, and a temperature sensing unit for measuring the temperature of at least one of the electrode and the skin; a cooling module configured to spray a cooling fluid toward the electrode module; and a cooling fluid blocking member configured to prevent the cooling fluid from being sprayed directly toward the temperature sensing unit when the cooling fluid is sprayed toward the electrode module by the cooling module.

[0022] For example, the electrode module may include a flexible substrate formed to be foldable, and the electrode may include a conductive layer formed on an exposed surface of the flexible substrate to which electromagnetic energy is applied; and a dielectric layer formed by laminating the conductive layer and coming into contact with the skin surface during treatment.

[0023] For example, the flexible substrate may include a first surface facing the skin surface; and a second surface opposite the first surface; and the cooling module may be configured to spray the cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module.

[0024] For example, the temperature sensing unit may be placed on the second surface of the flexible substrate.

[0025] For example, the cooling module may include a spray nozzle that sprays the cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module, and the cooling fluid blocking member may include a fluid flow blocking member formed with a blocking member that blocks the cooling fluid sprayed from the spray nozzle from being directly sprayed to the temperature sensing member; and a passage member that is open so that the cooling fluid sprayed from the spray nozzle is directly sprayed to the electrode module.

[0026] By the above-described solution, the present invention has the advantage of being able to treat the biological tissue by applying electromagnetic energy to the human skin biological tissue and using the heat generated thereby.

[0027] In particular, the present invention has an advantage in that a temperature sensor is configured in a position adjacent to an electrode configured to contact the skin and apply electromagnetic energy to skin biological tissue in a device for treating the skin by emitting electromagnetic energy in a contact manner, thereby directly measuring the temperature of the skin by the temperature sensor.

[0028] In addition, the present invention has an advantage in that it can enable accurate temperature measurement by minimizing the influence of a temperature sensor configured in a position adjacent to an electrode on a cooling fluid supplied to prevent overheating and burns.

[0029] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to provide the optimal treatment effect to the patient by configuring the tip module that is configured in the handpiece and comes into contact with the skin to be replaceable, thereby providing treatment by replacing it with various tip modules according to the size and symptoms of the affected area, treatment method, etc.

[0030] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being applicable not only to skin treatment / recovery devices used in treatment facilities such as hospitals, but also to portable treatment / treatment devices in the form of handpieces.

[0031] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to obtain skin treatment and restoration effects for various purposes, such as wrinkles, skin tone, skin texture, scars, acne, sagging mucous membranes, relaxation, lifting, tightening, and fat reduction.

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing one embodiment of a skin treatment device according to the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a specific embodiment of Figure 1.

[0034] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the handpiece of Figure 1.

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of a tip module for a skin treatment device according to the present invention.

[0036] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 4.

[0037] Fig. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the fluid flow blocking area of ​​Fig. 5.

[0038] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 'A-A' of Figure 4.

[0039] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram for explaining the electrical flow formed during patient treatment by Figure 1.

[0040] Figure 9 is a graph showing measurement data of a temperature sensor according to the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 is a graph showing measurement data of a temperature sensor in a general structure without a cooling fluid blocking member of the present invention.

[0042] Examples of the skin treatment device and the tip module for the skin treatment device according to the present invention can be applied in various ways, and the most preferred embodiment will be described below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] First, in explaining the present invention, the structure, shape, form, connection relationship, etc. of each component are explained with reference to the drawings, but are not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that various devices may be added, changed, or omitted in addition to these.

[0044] In addition, electromagnetic energy refers to energy possessed by electromagnetic waves or energy generated by electromagnetic waves, and the skin treatment device of the present invention is a device that emits electromagnetic energy and applies it to the skin for the purpose of treating the skin, and may include all devices for treating humans as well as mammals or other animals.

[0045] And, electromagnetic waves refer to waves transmitted while electric and magnetic fields change periodically, and can include all frequencies existing in nature, but in the present invention, it can include a frequency range that can be medically used for skin treatment, mainly ultraviolet (UV), visible light (VR), infrared (IR), radio waves (RF), etc.

[0046] In particular, the present invention aims to generate heat in the biological tissue of the skin, and can be explained by using, for example, an electric signal of RF frequency.

[0047] In addition, the skin treatment device of the present invention may include various devices that transmit electromagnetic energy to treat or restore the skin to its original state for the purpose of improving the condition of a lesion or tissue.

[0048] For example, the present invention may mean that it has the effect of improving Wrinkles, Tone and Textural Changes, Scars and Acne Scarring, Sagging mucosa, Overall Rejuvenation, Hyperhidrosis, laxity, lifting, tightening, Fat reduction, etc. by locally heating skin tissue using electromagnetic energy.

[0049] However, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be applied to various devices that transmit electromagnetic energy to various affected areas, including devices for surgically treating lesions of internal organs.

[0050] In addition, in the present invention, the tissue includes skin tissue of various bodies of animals including humans, for example, skin tissue of the face, neck, arms, legs, and torso, and may also include various tissues constituting various organs in the body, and the skin biological tissue may include epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous fat, etc.

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing one embodiment of a skin treatment device according to the present invention.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, the skin treatment device is a medical RF (Radio Frequency) device for treating the skin tissue of a target patient, which uses RF energy as an energy source for treatment and is an RF transmission device that transmits RF energy to the treatment location (lesion).

[0053] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the treatment device according to the present embodiment includes a main body (10), a handpiece (20) connected to the main body (10), and a return part (30).

[0054] The main body (10) is equipped with various components for operating the treatment device of this embodiment, and on the outer surface is equipped with a setting section for setting the treatment operation and treatment mode of the treatment device and a display section for displaying treatment-related information to the user.

[0055] In addition, components such as an RF generator (50) and a refrigerant container may be provided inside the main body (10).

[0056] The handpiece (20) is intended to perform the desired treatment at the treatment location on the patient's skin, and can be configured in a form that the user can hold in his hand and use.

[0057] For example, an electrode (141) that contacts the patient's skin surface and transmits RF energy may be configured at one end of the handpiece (20), and various operating parts for manipulating treatment movements may be provided on the outer surface of the handpiece (20).

[0058] Additionally, a conductive path (conductor wire) for transmitting RF energy to the electrode (141) and a cooling path for cooling the electrode are formed inside the handpiece (20).

[0059] The return portion (30) is configured in the form of a pad including a return electrode to form a path through which RF energy is transmitted to the patient's body when RF energy is applied to the electrode (141) of the handpiece (20). Here, the return electrode is configured of a conductive material and can be positioned so as to contact a location on the patient's body opposite to the treatment location where the electrode of the handpiece is in contact during treatment.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 1, the handpiece (20) and the return part (30) can each be connected to the main body by a connecting part.

[0061] The connecting part may be composed of a cable or the like, and each may be electrically connected to the main body (10) to form a transmission path for RF energy and may be configured to transmit or receive various signals.

[0062] In addition, the present embodiment is configured such that the electrode (141) of the handpiece (20) is configured as a monopolar type having a single polarity and is provided with a separate return section (30), but is not limited thereto. If the handpiece (20) is configured as a bipolar type having electrodes of different polarities, the return section (30) may not be included.

[0063] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing a specific embodiment of Figure 1.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 2, the RF generator (50) can generate RF energy among electromagnetic energy as energy used for treatment.

[0065] At this time, the RF generator (50) can generate RF pulses having various parameters depending on the patient's constitution, treatment purpose, treatment area, etc. Here, the parameters can include at least one of output, pulse duration, pulse interval, and frequency.

[0066] Additionally, the RF generator (50) can generate RF energy having at least two different frequencies.

[0067] For example, the RF generator (50) can selectively generate RF energy having a first frequency and RF energy having a second frequency.

[0068] At this time, the frequency range can be divided into the first range (2 MHz or more and less than 6 MHz), the second range (6 MHz or more and less than 10 MHz), and the third range (10 MHz or more and less than 30 MHz) according to the penetration characteristics into the skin biological tissue.

[0069] More specifically, the first range may be a frequency range having superior skin penetration characteristics compared to the second and third ranges, and the third range may be a frequency range having inferior skin penetration characteristics compared to the first and second ranges.

[0070] At this time, the first frequency may be a frequency within the first range, and the second frequency may be a frequency within the second range or the third range.

[0071] Alternatively, the first frequency may be a frequency within the second range, and the second frequency may be a frequency within the third range.

[0072] If the RF generator (50) generates RF energy of three different frequencies, the first frequency may be a frequency within the first range, the second frequency may be a frequency within the second range, and the third frequency may be a frequency within the third range.

[0073] For example, the first frequency may be 2 to 3 MHz, the second frequency may be 6 to 10 MHz, and the third frequency may be 12 to 16 MHz.

[0074] Preferably, the first frequency may be 2.26 MHz, the second frequency may be 6.78 MHz, and the third frequency may be 13.56 MHz.

[0075] Accordingly, the RF generator (50) can generate RF energy having a selected frequency or generate RF energy combining RF pulses of multiple frequencies, depending on the progress of the selected treatment mode or treatment process, but can be controlled so that the ratio of the frequencies generating the RF energy is different.

[0076] This RF generator (50) can be configured inside the main body (10) or handpiece (20) shown in FIG. 1.

[0077] The electrode unit (141) can be connected to the RF generator unit (50) by an RF circuit, and can emit RF energy generated from the RF generator unit (50) and transmit it to the patient's skin tissue.

[0078] For example, the electrode portion (141) is provided at one end of the handpiece (20) and can be positioned to come into contact with the patient's skin tissue during use.

[0079] In addition, the electrode portion (141) can transmit RF energy to the patient's skin tissue while forming an RF circuit passing through the patient's skin tissue together with the return portion (30) positioned to contact the patient's skin at an opposite position.

[0080] In other words, the electrode portion (141) can be formed in the exposed portion of the electrode module (140) configured to be at least partially exposed to an opening formed in one direction on the main body (21) of the handpiece (20).

[0081] For example, the electrode module (140) may include an electrode configured to apply electromagnetic energy to skin biological tissue, and a temperature sensing unit configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the electrode and the skin.

[0082] Here, the electrode may be a single electrode, or may be an electrode having multiple segments as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0083] The temperature sensing unit may include a temperature sensor (142). The temperature sensor may be arranged adjacent to the electrode as indicated by the dashed-dotted line in FIG. 4. For example, the temperature sensors may be arranged at five locations in total, one each at four corners and one central location of the electrode module (140). The arrangement locations of the temperature sensors are not limited thereto. The temperature sensor may also be formed on at least one of the exposed surface of the flexible substrate described below or the non-exposed surface opposite to the exposed surface.

[0084] In addition, an EME (Electro Magnetic Energy) generation module configured to supply electromagnetic energy to the electrode module (140) may be configured in the handpiece (20) or the main body (10), and this EME generation module may include the RF generation unit (50) described above.

[0085] In addition, the electromagnetic energy generated from the EME generating module may include at least one of visible light energy, infrared energy, microwave energy, and radio frequency energy, and the RF generating unit (50) may generate dual radio frequency energy.

[0086] In addition, the monitoring unit (35) is for monitoring RF energy transmitted to the patient's tissue, and can monitor by measuring at least one RF parameter (e.g., impedance, etc.) on the path of the RF circuit formed by the RF generation unit (50), the electrode unit (141), and the return unit (30), and calculating the RF energy transmitted to the skin biological tissue based on the measured RF parameter. The electrode unit (141) and the monitoring unit (35) are described in more detail below with reference to separate drawings.

[0087] The cooling unit (60) is for cooling the treatment location where treatment is performed by the handpiece, and may include a cooling module configured to spray cooling fluid toward the electrode module (140), and various cooling methods may be used.

[0088] For example, the cooling unit (60) may be configured to cool the treatment location using the heat of vaporization of a liquid refrigerant, which is a cooling fluid. In this case, a cooling method using a liquid refrigerant may cool the treatment location by directly spraying the liquid refrigerant onto the treatment location.

[0089] As another example, the cooling unit (60) can be configured to indirectly cool the treatment site by spraying a coolant on the back of the electrode (141) in contact with the treatment site, thereby cooling the skin surface in contact with the electrode (141) and preventing the skin surface from being thermally damaged during treatment.

[0090] At this time, the cooling fluid used in the cooling unit (60) is not limited to a liquid refrigerant, and of course, a gaseous refrigerant can be used.

[0091] Specifically, the cooling unit (60) may include a refrigerant receiving unit in which refrigerant is received, a cooling channel forming a path through which the refrigerant received in the refrigerant receiving unit is delivered, and a cooling module that sprays the refrigerant delivered through the cooling channel to the rear surface of the electrode of the handpiece.

[0092] The refrigerant container may be provided in the main body or in a separate location.

[0093] A cooling path is connected from the coolant receiving portion to the cooling module, and at least a portion of the cooling path can be formed inside the handpiece.

[0094] In addition, at least one valve and sensor may be configured on the cooling path, and the control unit (40) may use these to monitor the cooling process of the cooling unit (60) and control the cooling performance. Here, the cooling performance refers to the performance that can lower the temperature of the object for the same period of time, and may be the amount of refrigerant injected per unit time through the cooling module.

[0095] The sensing unit (80) can sense various information necessary for the operation of the treatment device during treatment or before and after treatment.

[0096] For example, the sensing unit (80) may be at least one of an impedance sensor for measuring the impedance of skin tissue, a temperature sensor (142) for measuring the temperature of an electrode or skin, a contact sensor for detecting whether an electrode (141) of a handpiece (20) is in contact with the skin surface, a movement sensor for detecting the movement speed of the handpiece (20), and a pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of a cooling channel.

[0097] As an example, in the present embodiment, a temperature sensor (142) and a contact sensor (not shown) may be positioned adjacent to the electrodes of the handpiece, and a pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure at which the coolant is provided may be positioned in the cooling passage.

[0098] This sensing unit (80) may be a temperature sensing unit including a temperature sensor (142) as described above.

[0099] In addition, a cooling fluid blocking member may be configured between the electrode module and the cooling module to prevent the cooling fluid from being directly sprayed toward the temperature sensing unit when sprayed toward the electrode module by the cooling module, and this will be described in more detail below.

[0100] The setting unit (70) is provided in the main body (10) and can set various operations of the treatment device, including the treatment mode, and the user can set the treatment mode to be performed through the setting unit (70).

[0101] Specifically, the user can transmit RF energy in the form of pulse waves through the setting unit (70), and can set at least one of the target energy to be transmitted to the tissue using the RF pulse, the number of pulses, the pulse width, and the frequency characteristics constituting the pulse.

[0102] In addition, the setting unit (70) can set the treatment lesion, target tissue to be treated, target depth, etc. by the user's operation.

[0103] The storage unit (90) stores various information necessary for treatment and may be configured to include a memory element.

[0104] This storage unit (90) can be provided in the main body (10), and additionally can be provided in the handpiece (20) or tip module (100).

[0105] In addition, the storage unit (90) can store parameter information for each treatment mode, patient-related information, control information according to sensed conditions, etc., and can update and record information sensed during treatment and information input by the user.

[0106] And, in the case of a memory provided in a handpiece (20) or a tip module (100), it may be configured to store identification information for the handpiece (20) or the tip module (100).

[0107] The control unit (40) controls the operation of various components of the treatment device, such as the RF generator (50) and the cooling unit (60), and can control various components using the contents set by the user through the setting unit (70) or the control information stored in the storage unit (90).

[0108] In addition, the control unit (40) receives information sensed from the sensing unit (80) and information monitored from the monitoring unit (35), and can control various configurations by utilizing the received information.

[0109] For example, the control unit (40) can receive and confirm the temperature measurement value detected by the temperature sensor (142), and control the parameters of the RF pulse and the cooling performance of the electrode (141) based on the temperature measurement value.

[0110] In addition, the control unit (40) can control the parameters of the RF pulse based on the information monitored by the monitoring unit (35). Here, the control unit (40) can be configured to include a calculation unit, and can calculate a control value using a set algorithm and received information, and control various components based on the calculated control value.

[0111] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating the handpiece of Figure 1.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 3, the handpiece (20) can be configured to include a main body (21) and a tip module (100).

[0113] The main body (21) is connected to a connecting part at one end, and various components that perform operations for treating skin biological tissue, such as an RF transmission circuit and a cooling path, can be provided inside.

[0114] In addition, the outer surface of the main body (21) may be provided with a control unit and a display unit, and a tip module (100) is configured at one end.

[0115] The tip module (100) may be provided with an electrode (141) for contacting the skin to be treated and transmitting (emitting) RF energy to the contacted point, and may be detachably connected to one end of the main body (21).

[0116] For example, the tip module (100) can be coupled to the main body (21) so as to be exposed to the outside through an opening of the main body (21) from the inside of the main body (21).

[0117] In addition, the tip module (100) may be formed with a circuit for transmitting RF energy to the electrode and a cooling structure for cooling the electrode and treatment location, and these structures will be described in more detail below.

[0118] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing one embodiment of a tip module for a skin treatment device according to the present invention, FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of FIG. 4, FIG. 6 is a perspective view explaining a fluid flow blocking device of FIG. 5, and FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 'A-A' of FIG. 4.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 5, the tip module (100) is configured to include a tip main body, an electrode module (140), a fluid flow blocking section (160), a cooling module (150), an internal case (120), and a rear cover.

[0120] The tip main body can be coupled with the inner case (120) to support the electrode module (140), and a cooling module (150) can be placed inside the inner case (120).

[0121] The rear cover is connected to the rear of the tip main body while the electrode module (140), fluid flow blocking section (160), cooling module (150), and internal case (120) are sequentially arranged inside the tip main body.

[0122] In addition, the tip main body or rear cover may have a connecting structure formed to be fastened to the opening formed at the end of the main body (21) of the handpiece (20).

[0123] The electrode module (140) may be configured to include a flexible substrate formed to be foldable, and an electric element and a circuit for electrically forming the same may be formed on the flexible substrate.

[0124] For example, the electrical component may include a temperature sensing unit including an electrode (141) and a temperature sensor.

[0125] The electrode (141) is placed in front of the electrode module (140) (based on the electrode module being folded), is exposed through the opening (opening) of the tip main body, and can come into contact with the skin surface during treatment.

[0126] These electrodes (141) are formed on an exposed surface of a flexible substrate and include a conductive layer to which electromagnetic energy is applied, and the conductive layer can be formed by laminating a dielectric layer that comes into contact with the skin surface during treatment.

[0127] Therefore, during treatment, the conductive layer of the electrode comes into contact with the skin through the dielectric layer, and when RF energy is applied to the electrode (141), the electrode (141) is capacitively coupled to the skin tissue by the dielectric layer and can transmit (emit) RF energy to the skin biological tissue.

[0128] In addition, the temperature sensor (142) and the contact sensor of the sensing unit (temperature sensing unit) may be positioned adjacent to the electrode (141) on the exposed surface of the flexible substrate, that is, on the surface facing the upper left in FIG. 5, and may measure the temperature of the electrode or the skin surface and detect whether the electrode is in contact with the skin. Alternatively, the temperature sensor (142) and the contact sensor of the sensing unit (temperature sensing unit) may be positioned on the opposite side of the flexible substrate facing the exposed surface, that is, on the surface facing the lower right in FIG. 5.

[0129] In addition, the electrode module (140) may further include a memory, and the memory may store information of the tip module (100), such as a unique ID, along with the type of electrode, the size of the electrode, the pattern of the electrode, the size of the cooling space, etc.

[0130] In addition, the electrode module (140) may be configured with various sensors including an electrode (141) and a temperature sensor, and a conductive lead that extends rearward and is connected to a memory.

[0131] For example, the connection terminal formed at the end of the conductive lead is exposed to the rear when the rear cover is combined, and can be electrically connected to the RF circuit on the main body (21) side of the handpiece (20) when the tip module (100) is combined.

[0132] And, the cooling module (150) is for spraying the refrigerant transmitted from the refrigerant receiving portion along the cooling path toward the rear of the electrode (141).

[0133] To explain this more specifically, the electrode module (140) may include a first surface facing the skin surface (a surface facing the left side in FIG. 5) and a second surface opposite to the first surface (a surface facing the lower right side in FIG. 5), and the cooling module (150) may be configured to spray a cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module (140).

[0134] In addition, a conduit (151) in which a cooling path is formed may be formed at the rear side of the cooling module (150), and an injection port (152) in which a plurality of nozzles for injecting cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module (140) may be formed at the front side of the cooling module (150).

[0135] Additionally, the rear end of the conduit (151) can be exposed to the rear side of the rear cover when assembling the tip module (100).

[0136] Accordingly, when the tip module (100) is coupled to the main body (21) of the handpiece (20), the cooling path of the conduit (151) can be coupled to the cooling path on the main body (21) side, and a path can be formed through which the refrigerant (cooling fluid) provided from the refrigerant container is transmitted.

[0137] A tip module (100) having this structure can be detachably connected to the end of the main body (21) of the handpiece (20) as described above.

[0138] And, when the tip module (100) is coupled, the control unit (40) receives information about the tip module (100) from the memory of the tip module (100), and considering this, controls the RF generation unit (50) and the cooling unit (60), so as to transfer RF energy to the electrode (141) of the tip module (100) and perform a process of cooling the electrode (141).

[0139] Additionally, the tip module (100) may be configured as a consumable and may be replaced with a new tip module (100) when treating a new patient or exceeding the permitted number of uses.

[0140] The treatment device (1) using RF energy described above is electrically connected to at least a portion of the patient's body to form an RF circuit, and can transmit RF energy to the patient's skin tissue through this to perform treatment.

[0141] Meanwhile, as previously discussed, if the refrigerant (cooling fluid) sprayed from the cooling module (150) is sprayed directly onto the temperature sensing unit, an abnormality may occur in the operation of the temperature sensing unit or an error may occur in the measured data.

[0142] Accordingly, the present invention may include a cooling fluid blocking member to prevent the cooling fluid from being directly sprayed onto the temperature sensing unit.

[0143] For example, the cooling fluid blocking member may include an insulating member configured to cover at least a portion of the second surface of the electrode module (140) on which the temperature sensing unit is arranged.

[0144] In other words, an insulating material can be applied to cover the part of the second surface of the electrode module (140) where the temperature sensing unit is positioned.

[0145] Here, it is preferable to use a material with low thermal conductivity, such as epoxy resin, as the insulating material.

[0146] Additionally, in the present invention, temperature sensors are arranged corresponding to multiple points of the electrode (141), and an insulating member is arranged at a position corresponding to the temperature sensor.

[0147] Therefore, in order to reduce the deviation in sensing by multiple temperature sensors, it is desirable that the thickness of the insulating material formed at multiple points be uniform.

[0148] As another example, as shown in FIG. 5, the cooling fluid blocking member may be configured to have a fluid flow blocking member (150) placed between the second surface of the electrode module (140) in which the temperature sensing unit is placed and the cooling module (150) in which the injection nozzle is configured.

[0149] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the cooling fluid blocking member may include a blocking portion (161) that blocks the cooling fluid sprayed from the spray nozzle from being directly sprayed to the temperature sensing portion, and a fluid flow blocking portion (160) formed with an open passage portion (162) that allows the cooling fluid sprayed from the spray nozzle to be directly sprayed to the electrode module (140).

[0150] Accordingly, the electrode (141) can be cooled by the cooling fluid passing through the passage (162) of the fluid flow blocking section (160), and the temperature sensing section can be protected from the cooling fluid by the blocking section (161).

[0151] For example, a total of five temperature sensors can be configured, one each at four corners and one at the center on the exposed surface of the electrode module (140), and accordingly, the blocking portion (161) of the fluid flow blocking section (160) can be formed at a total of five locations, including four corners and one at the center, as shown in FIG. 6.

[0152] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram for explaining the electrical flow formed during patient treatment by Figure 1.

[0153] The treatment device (1) using the RF energy described above is electrically connected to at least a portion of the patient's body to form an RF circuit, and through this, RF energy can be transmitted to the patient's skin tissue to perform treatment.

[0154] Specifically, the electrode portion (141) provided at the end of the handpiece (20) comes into contact with one side of the patient's skin surface by the user's treatment motion during treatment.

[0155] And, the return electrode of the return part (30) can be brought into contact with the patient's skin surface at a position opposite to the electrode part (141).

[0156] Additionally, the electrode part (141) of the handpiece (20) can be connected to the RF generator (50) provided inside the main body (10) or the handpiece (20) through a connecting part.

[0157] Finally, the return electrode of the return section (30) can be connected to a separate ground section.

[0158] Through this type of connection, when treating a patient using a treatment device (1), an RF circuit such as that shown in Fig. 6 can be formed, and the patient's body can be capacitively coupled with the electrode unit (141) and the return unit (30) by coming into contact with them.

[0159] In other words, the electrode part (141) and the return part (30) serve as a charging plate of the capacitive element, and the patient's tissue interposed between the electrode part (141) and the return part (30) can serve as a dielectric of the capacitive element.

[0160] Accordingly, the electrode unit (141) connected to the RF generator (50) is an active electrode that can apply RF pulses to the inside of the patient's skin tissue, and the return unit (30) connected to the ground unit is a return electrode that can form a path through which the RF pulses applied to the inside of the skin tissue are returned, and through the RF circuit formed in this way, RF pulses can be applied to the patient's skin tissue to transmit RF energy, and treatment of the skin tissue can be performed by the transmitted RF energy.

[0161] At this time, the control unit (40) can control to apply various RF pulses according to the treatment mode or treatment process set by the user, and can control the cooling unit (60) to apply an optimized cooling pulse according to the parameters of the RF pulse.

[0162] For example, depending on the set treatment mode, the frequency of the RF pulse provided through the electrode unit (141) may be different.

[0163] At this time, when treating using an RF pulse of low frequency (e.g., a frequency of the first range), a cooling pulse having relatively low cooling performance can be applied to control cooling of the electrode or the skin surface.

[0164] If treatment is performed using RF pulses of high frequency (e.g., frequencies in the third range), cooling pulses with relatively high cooling performance can be applied to control cooling of the electrode or the skin surface.

[0165] In addition, when treating using RF pulses of low frequency (e.g., a frequency of the first range), the cooling unit (60) can be controlled to cool the electrode unit (141) or the skin surface before, during, and after the RF pulse is applied.

[0166] And, when treating using an RF pulse of an intermediate frequency (e.g., a frequency of the second range), the cooling unit (60) can be controlled to cool the electrode unit (141) or the skin surface before the RF pulse.

[0167] And, when treating using RF pulses of high frequency (for example, a frequency of the third range), the cooling unit (60) can be controlled to cool the electrode unit (141) or the skin surface after the RF pulse is applied or from the end point of the RF pulse.

[0168] Furthermore, when the electromagnetic energy transmitted through the RF pulse is in the first energy range (the first energy is relatively high energy and is greater than the second and third energies), the cooling unit (60) can be controlled to cool the electrode unit (141) or the skin surface before the RF pulse is applied, while the RF pulse is applied, and after the RF pulse is applied.

[0169] And, when the electromagnetic energy transmitted through the RF pulse is in the second energy range (the second energy is a relatively intermediate range energy, smaller than the first energy and larger than the third energy), the cooling unit (60) can be controlled to cool the electrode unit (141) or the skin surface in advance of the RF pulse.

[0170] And, when the electromagnetic energy transmitted through the RF pulse is in the third energy range (the third energy is a relatively low energy range, lower than the first energy and the second energy), the cooling unit (60) can be controlled to cool the electrode unit (141) or the skin surface after the RF pulse is applied or from the end point of the RF pulse.

[0171] Fig. 9 is a graph showing measurement data of a temperature sensor according to the present invention, and Fig. 10 is a graph showing measurement data of a temperature sensor in a general structure without a cooling fluid blocking member according to the present invention.

[0172] In FIGS. 9 and 10, the vertical axis represents the measurement value (unit: ℃) measured by the temperature sensor, and the horizontal axis represents the time elapsed since the start of measurement by the temperature sensor (unit: ms). The lines illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 each represent the number of times cooling gas is injected. The lines illustrated at the top represent data with a smaller number of cooling gas injections, and the lines illustrated at the bottom represent data with a larger number of cooling gas injections.

[0173] Comparing the graphs of FIGS. 9 and 10, it can be seen that in the case of FIG. 10, as the number of times the cooling gas is injected increases, the deviation in the measured value of the temperature sensor increases, whereas in the case of FIG. 9, even as the number of times the cooling gas is injected increases, the deviation in the measured value of the temperature sensor is small.

[0174] In summary, it was experimentally confirmed that when the cooling fluid blocking member according to the present invention is included, the influence of the cooling fluid on real-time temperature measurement can be minimized compared to when it is not included.

[0175] In addition, these characteristics were more effectively expressed when the thickness of the insulating material formed at multiple points of the temperature sensor was uniform.

[0176] In addition, it is easier to form the fluid flow blocking zone (160) with a uniform thickness near the location where the temperature sensor is formed, and thus the above effect is better expressed.

[0177] However, if the flow of cooling gas fluid toward the electrode is different depending on the part of the electrode, the thickness of the insulating material or fluid flow blocking member in the part where the flow rate of cooling gas is large can be increased.

[0178] The skin treatment device and tip module for the skin treatment device according to the present invention have been described above. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the technical configuration of the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention.

[0179] Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not limiting.

[0180] (Explanation of symbols)

[0181] 1: Treatment device

[0182] 10: Body 20: Handpiece

[0183] 21: Main body 30: Return part

[0184] 35: Monitoring unit 40: Control unit

[0185] 50: RF generator 60: Cooling unit

[0186] 70: Setting section 80: Sensing section

[0187] 90: Storage

[0188] 100: Tip module 120: Inner case

[0189] 140: Electrode module 141: Electrode section

[0190] 142: Temperature sensor 143: Connection terminal

[0191] 150: Cooling module 151: Pipe

[0192] 152: Nozzle 160: Fluid flow blocking area

[0193] 161: Blocking section 162: Passing section

[0194] The present invention can be utilized in the field of skin treatment and beauty, particularly in the field of skin treatment and beauty using RF, in the field of contact skin treatment and beauty devices, as well as in similar or related fields.

Claims

1. In a skin treatment device that treats skin tissue using electromagnetic energy, Main body with an opening formed in one direction; An electrode module configured such that at least a portion of the electrode module is exposed to the opening; A cooling module configured to spray a cooling fluid toward the electrode module; and It includes an EME (Electro Magnetic Energy) generating module configured to supply electromagnetic energy to the above electrode module; The above electrode module, An electrode configured to apply the electromagnetic energy to the skin tissue; and A temperature sensing unit configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the electrode and the skin; Between the above electrode module and cooling module, A cooling fluid blocking member configured to prevent the cooling fluid from being directly sprayed toward the temperature sensing unit when the cooling fluid is sprayed toward the electrode module by the cooling module; characterized in that it includes; Skin treatment device.

2. In paragraph 1, The above electrode module, It includes a flexible substrate formed to be foldable, The above electrodes are, A conductive layer formed on the exposed surface of the above flexible substrate exposed to the open portion and to which electromagnetic energy is applied; and A dielectric layer formed by laminating on the above-mentioned conductive layer and in contact with the skin surface during treatment; characterized in that it includes; Skin treatment device.

3. In paragraph 2, The above flexible substrate is, a first side facing the skin surface; and Including a second side opposite to the first side; The above cooling module, characterized in that it is configured to spray the cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module. Skin treatment device.

4. In paragraph 3, The above temperature sensing unit, Characterized in that it is arranged on the second surface of the above flexible substrate, Skin treatment device.

5. In paragraph 4, The above cooling fluid blocking member is, characterized in that it includes an insulating member configured to cover at least a portion of the second surface on which the temperature sensing unit is arranged; Skin treatment device.

6. In paragraph 4, The above cooling module, Including a spray nozzle that sprays the cooling fluid toward the second surface; The above cooling fluid blocking member is, characterized in that it includes a fluid flow blocking member arranged between the second surface on which the temperature sensing unit is arranged and the injection nozzle; Skin treatment device.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above electromagnetic energy is, characterized in that it comprises at least one of visible light energy, infrared energy, microwave energy and radio frequency energy, Skin treatment device.

8. In a tip module configured to be detachably attached to a skin treatment device that treats skin tissue using electromagnetic energy, An electrode module comprising an electrode configured to apply electromagnetic energy to skin biological tissue, and a temperature sensing unit configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the electrode and the skin; A cooling module configured to spray a cooling fluid toward the electrode module; and A cooling fluid blocking member configured to prevent the cooling fluid from being directly sprayed toward the temperature sensing unit when the cooling fluid is sprayed toward the electrode module by the cooling module; characterized in that it includes; Tip module for skin treatment device.

9. In paragraph 8, The above electrode module, It includes a flexible substrate formed to be foldable, The above electrodes are, A conductive layer formed on an exposed surface of the above flexible substrate to which electromagnetic energy is applied; and A dielectric layer formed by laminating on the above-mentioned conductive layer and in contact with the skin surface during treatment; characterized in that it includes; Tip module for skin treatment device.

10. In paragraph 9, The above flexible substrate is, a first side facing the skin surface; and Including a second side opposite to the first side; The above cooling module, characterized in that it is configured to spray the cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module. Tip module for skin treatment device.

11. In paragraph 10, The above temperature sensing unit, Characterized in that it is arranged on the second surface of the above flexible substrate, Tip module for skin treatment device.

12. In paragraph 11, The above cooling module, Including a spray nozzle that sprays the cooling fluid toward the second surface of the electrode module; The above cooling fluid blocking member is, A blocking unit that blocks the cooling fluid sprayed from the above-mentioned spray nozzle from being directly sprayed to the temperature sensing unit; and It is characterized by including a fluid flow blocking section formed with an open passage so that the cooling fluid sprayed from the above spray nozzle is directly sprayed to the electrode module. Tip module for skin treatment device.

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