High-frequency output device, handpiece therefor, and tip couplable to handpiece
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure KR2025004153_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
High-frequency output device, a handpiece for the same, and a tip attachable to the handpiece
[0001] The present invention relates to a high-frequency output device, a handpiece for the same, and a tip that can be coupled to the handpiece. More specifically, the invention relates to a high-frequency output device that outputs electrical energy to human body tissues for cosmetic or medical purposes, a handpiece for the same, and a tip coupled to and used with said handpiece.
[0002]
[0003] With the advancement of medicine, devices that improve human skin tissue based on various energy sources are being developed.
[0004] Among them, the high-frequency output device is a device that utilizes electrical energy as an energy source, and by irradiating electrical energy of a predetermined frequency (e.g., Radio Frequency) toward the tissue beneath the human skin to raise the internal temperature of the skin, it is a device that produces effects such as reorganizing the collagen layer within the tissue, increasing skin elasticity, or improving wrinkles.
[0005] When performing a procedure using a high-frequency output device, the patient may experience pain, and the skin may suffer burns due to the heat generated by the tip. To address these issues, the patient's skin can be cooled using ice packs before or during the procedure to reduce pain and the risk of burns. Alternatively, these problems can be alleviated by cooling the temperature of the tip that outputs electrical energy.
[0006] However, conventional technology does not propose effective cooling techniques that can be utilized during the procedure. For instance, the method of cooling the treatment area with ice packs has the drawback that the procedure must be temporarily suspended during cooling. Another cooling method involves using a cooling device that sprays a refrigerant from a cooling nozzle. In this case, an assistant holds the cooling nozzle and sprays the refrigerant toward the treatment area from the side of the practitioner; while this has the advantage of enabling cooling during the procedure, it has the disadvantages of requiring a separate cooling device and an assistant to spray the refrigerant.
[0007] Meanwhile, regarding cooling, while it is important to directly cool the treatment area to prevent burns and pain, it is also necessary to cool the tip itself, which has heated up during the procedure. This is because lowering the temperature of the tip through cooling reduces the heat transferred to the skin surface, thereby reducing the risk of pain and burns and preventing the tip from malfunctioning due to overheating.
[0008]
[0009] The technical problem to be solved through the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a high-frequency output device capable of cooling the treatment site and / or tip during a procedure using the high-frequency output device, a handpiece for the same, and a tip attachable to the handpiece.
[0010] Another technical problem to be solved through the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a high-frequency output device capable of enhancing the cooling effect and uniformly lowering the temperature of a tip by dispersing and irradiating a refrigerant to a high-temperature portion of the tip, a handpiece for the same, and a tip that can be coupled to the handpiece.
[0011] Another technical problem to be solved through the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a high-frequency output device capable of preventing residual refrigerant from liquefying and accumulating as liquid inside the tip by rapidly evaporating or discharging residual refrigerant inside the tip, a handpiece for the same, and a tip connectable to the handpiece.
[0012] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.
[0013]
[0014] A tip attachable to a handpiece according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above technical problem comprises a housing, a frame attached to the housing, an electrode module attached to the frame and outputting electrical energy of a predetermined frequency, and a cooling module that sprays a refrigerant into a first space at least partially partitioned by the frame, wherein the electrode module comprises a substrate and an electrode formed in a part of the substrate and outputting electrical energy toward the outside of the housing, and the refrigerant may be injected toward the part of the substrate after flowing from the handpiece to the cooling module.
[0015] A high-frequency output device according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above technical problem comprises a main body, a handpiece connected to the main body, and a tip coupled to the handpiece and receiving electrical energy from the handpiece while coupled to the handpiece and outputting it toward human body tissue, wherein the tip comprises a housing, a frame coupled to the housing, an electrode module coupled to the frame and outputting electrical energy of a predetermined frequency, and a cooling module that sprays a refrigerant into a first space at least partially partitioned by the frame, and the electrode module comprises a substrate and an electrode formed in a part of the substrate and outputting electrical energy toward the body tissue, and the refrigerant may be injected toward the part of the substrate after flowing from the handpiece to the cooling module.
[0016] A handpiece for a high-frequency output device according to an embodiment of the present invention for solving the above technical problem comprises a tip, an electrical circuit for providing electrical energy of a predetermined frequency to the tip, and a controller for controlling the operation of the electrical circuit, wherein the tip comprises a housing, a frame coupled to the housing, an electrode module coupled to the frame and outputting electrical energy of a predetermined frequency, and a cooling module for spraying a refrigerant into a first space at least partially partitioned by the frame, and the electrode module comprises a substrate and an electrode formed in a part of the substrate and outputting electrical energy toward the outside of the housing, and the refrigerant may be injected toward the part of the substrate after flowing from the handpiece to the cooling module.
[0017]
[0018] According to the embodiments of the present invention described above, an effective cooling structure capable of cooling a tip or a treatment site during a procedure of a high-frequency output device can be provided.
[0019] In addition, by dispersing and irradiating a refrigerant onto the high-temperature area of the tip, the cooling effect can be enhanced and the temperature of the tip can be lowered uniformly.
[0020] In addition, by providing one or more channels that communicate between spaces inside the tip or between the inside and outside of the tip, the residual refrigerant inside the tip can be rapidly evaporated or discharged, thereby effectively preventing the residual refrigerant from liquefying and accumulating as liquid inside the tip.
[0021] The technical effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.
[0022]
[0023] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a high-frequency output device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 is a projection view exemplarily showing a tip (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the main configuration of a tip (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 4 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the housing (1100) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0027] FIG. 5 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the base member (1200) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0028] FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 7 are exemplary drawings for further explaining the configuration of the cooling module (1300) shown in FIGS. 3.
[0029] FIG. 8 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the electrode module (1400) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0030] FIG. 9 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the cover member (1500) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0031] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an exemplary assembly method of a tip (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 11 is a drawing for illustrating the internal space of a tip (1000), which is partitioned by the main components (1100, 1200, 1500) of the tip (1000).
[0033] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing various embodiments in which a fluid channel is formed inside the tip (1000) to more effectively remove residual refrigerant inside the tip (1000).
[0034] Figure 13 is a graph showing the results of an experiment comparing the difference between cases where a packing member is applied and cases where it is not.
[0035]
[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the attached drawings. However, the technical concept of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments but can be implemented in various different forms. The following embodiments are provided merely to complete the technical concept of the present invention and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the present invention, and the technical concept of the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.
[0037] It should be noted that when assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components are assigned the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions could obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.
[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) may be used in a meaning commonly understood by those skilled 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. The terms used herein are for describing embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text.
[0039] Additionally, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the present invention. These terms are intended merely to distinguish the components from other components, and the nature, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by such terms. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "combined," or "joined" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or joined to the other component, but that another component may also be "connected," "combined," or "joined" between each component.
[0040] Hereinafter, several embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.
[0041] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating the configuration of a high-frequency output device according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, the high-frequency output device (100) may include a tip (1000), a handpiece (2000), and a main body (3000).
[0043] The main body (3000) generates electrical energy of a predetermined frequency (e.g., Radio Frequency) required for skin treatment. At this time, the generated electrical energy can be output in the form of an electromagnetic wave or an electric current and irradiated onto human skin.
[0044] At this time, the frequency of the electrical energy may be determined differently depending on the patient's treatment purpose or treatment area. For example, when the purpose is skin treatment, the electrical energy may have a frequency between 0.1 MHz and 0.8 MHz.
[0045] In one embodiment, the main body (3000) may include a power supply unit (not shown) that generates electrical energy, a regulator unit (not shown) that adjusts the output of electrical energy, a modulation unit (not shown) that adjusts the frequency of electrical energy, a display unit (not shown) that displays the overall status of the high-frequency output device (100) or patient information and provides a user interface for operating the high-frequency output device (100), and / or a control unit (not shown) that controls the overall operation of each of the above units.
[0046] In one embodiment, the main body (3000) may include a refrigerant supply unit (not shown) that provides a refrigerant for cooling the tip (1000). The refrigerant supply unit may accommodate a refrigerant can and may draw out the refrigerant contained in the refrigerant can at an appropriate timing and provide it to the handpiece (2000) and / or the tip (1000). At this time, the refrigerant may be a cryoen in liquid or gaseous form, but is not limited thereto.
[0047] A tip (1000) is attached to one end of the handpiece (2000), and electrical energy provided from the main body (3000) is transmitted to the tip (1000), thereby allowing electrical energy to be output to the skin through the tip (1000).
[0048] The handpiece (2000) includes an electric circuit (not shown) for providing electrical energy of a predetermined frequency to a tip (1000) and a controller (not shown) for controlling the operation of the electric circuit, and can control the overall operation of the tip (1000).
[0049] For example, one or more operating buttons are provided on the outer surface of the handpiece (2000), and the controller can control whether the tip (1000) outputs electrical energy or not outputs it depending on the on / off state of the operating button. Alternatively, depending on the operation of the operating button, the controller can adjust the intensity or frequency of the electrical energy output by the tip (1000), or adjust the amount or timing of the refrigerant injected into the tip (1000).
[0050] In one embodiment, the handpiece (2000) may include a refrigerant injection part (not shown). The refrigerant injection part is configured to inject a refrigerant for cooling into the tip (1000). For example, the handpiece (2000) may receive a refrigerant from a refrigerant supply part of the main body (3000) and inject the received refrigerant into the tip (1000) using a pump or valve, etc.
[0051] The tip (1000) receives electrical energy from the handpiece (2000) and then outputs it to human skin through an electrode module (not shown). At this time, the output of electrical energy may be achieved by irradiating electrical energy toward human skin in the form of electromagnetic waves or by applying it in the form of current. The tip (1000) may be a non-invasive typed tip that outputs electrical energy in a non-invasive manner while the electrode module is in close contact with the surface of human skin, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the tip (1000) may be an invasive typed tip that is equipped with a micro needle array connected to the electrode module and outputs electrical energy through the tip of the needle while the micro needle array is invasively inserted under human skin.
[0052] The tip (1000) may include a cooling module (not shown) that sprays a refrigerant injected from the handpiece (2000) into or outside the tip (1000). By spraying the refrigerant injected from the handpiece (2000) toward the electrode module, the cooling module can effectively cool the electrode module that has gradually heated up as it outputs electrical energy. Meanwhile, although the present specification describes an embodiment in which the cooling module sprays the refrigerant toward the inside of the tip (1000), the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the cooling module may further include a nozzle extending therefrom and directed toward the treatment site, and may perform direct cooling of the treatment site by spraying the refrigerant toward the treatment site through the nozzle.
[0053] Below, the detailed configuration and operation of the tip (1000) will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 2 and below.
[0054] FIG. 2 is a projected perspective view illustrating an exemplary tip (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 2, the tip (1000) externally includes a housing (1100) and an electrode module (1400).
[0055] The housing (1100) is configured to provide a mechanical casing for the tip (1000) and functions to protect the components of the tip (1000) from various external forces or impacts. The housing (1100) may have a cylindrical shape with one end and / or the other end open, but is not limited thereto.
[0056] The electrode module (1400) outputs electrical energy transmitted from the handpiece (2000) in the form of electromagnetic waves or current. At least a portion of the electrode module (1400) (e.g., the electrode portion) is located at one end of the housing (1100) and may be exposed to the outside. During the procedure, the exposed portion of the electrode module (1400) comes into close contact with human skin, and electrical energy can be output through the exposed portion in that state.
[0057] In one embodiment, a cover member (1500) may be provided at the other end of the housing (1100). The cover member (1500) fixes the position of each component so that the components of the tip (1000) are stably housed inside the housing (1100). Additionally, the cover member (1500) may perform the function of guiding electrical connection and / or refrigerant transfer between the handpiece (2000) and the tip (1000). Since the cover member (1500) is located at the connection point between the tip (1000) and the handpiece (2000), it may not be exposed to the outside when the tip (1000) is connected to the handpiece (2000).
[0058] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the main configuration of a tip (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 3, the tip (1000) may include a housing (1100), a base member (1200), a cooling module (1300), an electrode module (1400), and a cover member (1500).
[0059] The base member (1200) and the cover member (1500) may be components that constitute the frame (1200, 1500). That is, the base member (1200) and the cover member (1500) may be combined to form the frame (1200, 1500), and in this case, the frame (1200, 1500) may refer to a single module including the base member (1200) and / or the cover member (1500).
[0060] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the base member (1200) and the cover member (1500) are exemplified as distinct individual elements, but the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. For example, a single frame manufactured as a single unit may replace the base member (1200) and the cover member (1500).
[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, the housing (1100) provides casings for other components (1200, 1300, 1400, 1500).
[0062] The base member (1200) and the cover member (1500) are combined to form a frame (1200, 1500), and the frame (1200, 1500) is combined with the housing (1100).
[0063] The electrode module (1400) includes a substrate and an electrode, and the substrate may include a centrally located electrode region and one or more legs extending from therefrom. An electrode is disposed in the electrode region to output electrical energy of a predetermined frequency through an open end of the housing (1100). One or more legs are made of a flexible material and can be fitted into a frame (1200, 1500) to fix the electrode module (1400) to the frame (1200, 1500).
[0064] The cooling module (1300) sprays a refrigerant into a first space that is at least partially partitioned by the frame (1200, 1500), for example, a space surrounded by the base member (1200) and the electrode module (1400). At this time, the refrigerant is sprayed toward the electrode area of the electrode module (1400) and, after being sprayed, may temporarily remain in the first space to cool the electrode area and / or the surrounding area.
[0065] The cooling module (1300) can preferably be accommodated in the base member (1200) in alignment with the cover member (1500) as shown in FIG. 3. This simplifies the refrigerant delivery path and the associated mechanical design. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it is also possible to design the cooling module (1300) so that part or all of it extends out of the base member (1200).
[0066] FIG. 4 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the housing (1100) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0067] Referring to FIG. 4, the housing (1100) may have the shape of a cylinder with a space (S) formed inside and one end and the other end each open.
[0068] The housing (1100) may include a body portion (1110) and one or more tip fastening portions (1120) formed on the side of the body portion (1110).
[0069] The body portion (1110) forms the side wall of the housing (1100). The body portion (1110) may be made of metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.
[0070] The tip fastening portion (1120) may be in the form of a perforated hole configured to fasten the tip (1000) to the handpiece (2000), but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the tip fastening portion (1120) may be in the form of an unperforated dent formed by partially cutting the inner wall of the body portion (1110).
[0071] Under this configuration, the handpiece (2000) is provided with a hook or a projection, and the tip (1000) can be attached to the handpiece (2000) in such a way that the hook or projection is attached to the tip connecting portion (1120) of the tip (1000).
[0072] FIG. 5 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the base member (1200) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0073] The base member (1200) is combined with the cover member (1500) to form a frame (1200, 1500), and the frame (1200, 1500) can be fixedly coupled to the housing (1100).
[0074] Referring to FIG. 5, the base member (1200) may include a receptacle (1210), a connecting part (1220), and / or a cover support part (1230).
[0075] A cavity is formed inside the receptacle (1210), and a cooling module (1300) can be accommodated in the cavity. At this time, one or more guide bars (1211) may be formed on the inner wall of the receptacle (1210) to guide the position of the cooling module (1300).
[0076] The receptacle (1210) can at least partially define a first space (S1) in which a refrigerant sprayed by the cooling module (1300) stays. For example, the space surrounded by the receptacle (1210) and the electrode module (1400) is defined as the first space (S1), and the cooling module (1300) sprays a refrigerant toward the first space (S1), and after spraying, the refrigerant stays temporarily in the first space (S1) and can cool the electrode module (1400) and / or surrounding components.
[0077] At least one first channel (1212) may be formed on one side of the receptacle (1210). The first channel (1212) is configured to communicate fluid inside and outside the receptacle (1210) and may be, for example, a perforated hole. The first channel (1212) may be formed on the side of the receptacle (1210) as shown in FIG. 5, but the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the first channel (1212) may be formed on the upper surface of the receptacle (1210).
[0078] The connecting portion (1220) extends from the receptacle (1210) toward the cover support portion (1230) and may be in the shape of a cylinder having a narrower cross-sectional area than the receptacle (1210). A frame fastening portion (1221) is formed on the side of the connecting portion (1220) to fasten the cover member (1500) and / or the cooling module (1300) to the base member (1200).
[0079] In one embodiment, the frame fastening portion (1221) may be a perforated hole or an unperforated groove. In this case, a hook or a protrusion is formed on the cover member (1500) and / or the cooling module (1300), and the cover member (1500) and / or the cooling module (1300) may be attached to the base member (1200) in such a manner that the hook or protrusion is fastened to the frame fastening portion (1221).
[0080] In one embodiment, the first channel (1212) may be formed in the connecting portion (1220). In this case, a hole may be formed at any location in the connecting portion (1220) to function as the first channel (1212). Alternatively, if the frame fastening portion (1221) is in the form of a hole, the frame fastening portion (1221) may function as the first channel (1212) itself without forming a separate hole.
[0081] The cover support member (1230) is configured to support the cover member (1500) and may have a shape that faces the cover member (1500) and corresponds to the shape of the cover member (1500). For example, if the cover member (1500) has the shape of a flat plate, the cover support member (1230) may also have the shape of a flat plate corresponding to it. Alternatively, if the cover member (1500) has the shape of a ball, the cover support member (1230) may have the shape of a concave plate to accommodate the ball.
[0082] FIGS. 6 and 7 are exemplary drawings for elaborating on the configuration of the cooling module (1300) illustrated in FIGS. 3. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the cooling module (1300) includes a cooling plate (1310), an inlet (1320), and / or a plurality of outlets (1313).
[0083] In one embodiment, a guide groove (1330) may be formed in the cooling module (1300). In this case, a guide bar (1211) of the receptacle (1210) is connected to the guide groove (1330) so that the position of the cooling module (1300) can be aligned when the cooling module (1300) is received in the receptacle (1210).
[0084] The inlet (1320) is configured to receive the refrigerant injected by the handpiece (2000). The inlet (1320) may have a narrow, long cylindrical shape, and the refrigerant flowing into the inlet (1320) passes through the cooling plate (1310) and is discharged through a plurality of outlets (1313).
[0085] A plurality of outlets (1313) are configured such that the refrigerant introduced into the inlet (1320) is injected into the first space (S1). The plurality of outlets (1313) may be configured as a plurality of holes arranged along the bottom surface of the cooling plate (1310) to inject the refrigerant to dispersed locations in the first space (S1). The plurality of outlets (1313) may be arranged along the edge of the bottom surface of the cooling plate (1310) as shown in FIG. 6, but the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the outlets (1313) may be arranged along one or more concentric circles of equal diameter on the bottom surface of the cooling plate (1310).
[0086] The cooling plate (1310) is configured to distribute the refrigerant introduced through the inlet (1320) to a plurality of outlets (1313), and defines one or more flow paths between the inlet (1320) and the plurality of outlets (1313). At this time, the flow path may include a plurality of branches extending from a first point (1315) adjacent to the inlet (1320) to each of the plurality of outlets (1313) so that the refrigerant introduced through the inlet (1320) flows distributed to the plurality of outlets (1313). Here, the first point (1315) is a hole formed in the cooling plate (1310) and may be a hole connected to the inlet (1320).
[0087] The cooling plate (1310) and the flow path defined by it will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 7.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 7, the flow path structure of the cooling plate (1310) is illustrated. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, the cooling plate (1310) includes a first plate (1310a, i.e., upper plate) having an inlet (1320) formed therein and a second plate (1310b, i.e., lower plate) having a plurality of outlets (1313) formed therein.
[0089] In this embodiment, the cooling plate (1310) may have one or more engraved branches (1311) formed on either the first plate (1310a) or the second plate (1310b) and one or more corresponding raised branches (1312) formed on the other plate to define a fluid flow path. Although FIG. 7 illustrates that the engraved branches (1311) are formed on the first plate (1310a) and the raised branches (1312) are formed on the second plate (1310b), it is also possible to change this so that the raised branches are formed on the first plate (1310a) and the engraved branches are formed on the second plate (1310b).
[0090] At this time, the width of the channel can be adjusted by processing the depth of the engraved branch (1311) or the height of the embossed branch (1312) differently. For example, if the depth of the engraved branch (1311) is made deeper, the width of the channel can be widened, and if the depth of the engraved branch (1311) is made shallower, the width of the channel can be narrowed accordingly. Similarly, if the height of the embossed branch (1312) is made higher, the width of the channel can be narrowed, and if the depth of the embossed branch (1312) is made lower, the width of the channel can be widened accordingly.
[0091] A plurality of outlets (1313) are arranged at each end of a plurality of branches (1312) formed in the second plate (1310b). Accordingly, the refrigerant introduced through the inlet (1320) and the first point (1315) flows along the flow path (i.e., a plurality of branches) inside the cooling plate (1310), is dispersed to a plurality of outlets (1313) located at the end of each branch, and is discharged toward the first space.
[0092] In one embodiment, the first plate (1310a) or the second plate (1310b) may include a diffusion member (1314) for diffusing the refrigerant introduced through the inlet (1320) into the plurality of branches. For example, the diffusion member (1314) may be provided at a location of a first point (1315) on the first plate (1310a), or at a location on the second plate (1310b) opposite to the first point (1315).
[0093] However, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, FIG. 7 assumes that the diffusion member (1314) is provided on the second plate (1310b).
[0094] Referring to FIG. 7, a diffusion member (1314) is formed at a position on the second plate (1310b) opposite to the first point (1315). At this time, the diffusion member (1314) may be configured such that one end faces the first point (1315), and the one end has a narrower cross-sectional area than the other end of the diffusion member (1314). In this case, the side profile of the diffusion member (1314) has an inclined surface, and the refrigerant introduced through the first point (1315) flows along the inclined surface of the diffusion member (1314), thereby being dispersed more easily and diffusing into each branch (1311, 1312) of the flow path.
[0095] In one embodiment, the diffusion member (1314) may be in the shape of a cone or a polygonal pyramid.
[0096] According to the configuration of the cooling module (1300), since the refrigerant is uniformly sprayed onto the first space (S1) through a plurality of outlets (1313), the heat generated in the electrode module (1400) can be reduced more effectively, and uniform cooling can be provided for the entire cooling target area.
[0097] FIG. 8 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the electrode module (1400) illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 8 (a) illustrates a first surface where the electrode (1420) of the electrode module is located, and FIG. 8 (b) illustrates a second surface which is the back surface of the first surface.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 8, the electrode module (1400) includes a substrate (1410) and an electrode (1420) formed on the substrate (1410).
[0099] The substrate (1410) may include a centrally located electrode region (1411) and one or more legs (1412) extending therefrom.
[0100] An electrode (1420) is formed in the electrode region (1411), and the electrode (1420) outputs electrical energy transmitted from the handpiece (2000) in the form of electromagnetic waves or current toward the human skin.
[0101] In one embodiment, the electrode (1420) may be exposed to the outside of the housing (1100).
[0102] One or more legs (1412) are made of a flexible material and are fitted into the frame (1200, 1500) so as to fix the electrode module (1400) to the frame (1200, 1500).
[0103] At the end of one or more legs (1412), a terminal (1430) is provided to be electrically connected to a handpiece (2000) to receive electrical energy provided by the handpiece (2000). One or more wires (1440) are formed between the terminal (1430) and the electrode (1420) to transmit the electrical energy received by the terminal (1430) to the electrode (1420).
[0104] In one embodiment, the electrode module (1400) may include one or more semiconductor chips (1413). The semiconductor chip (1413) may be a controller or a storage device. For example, the semiconductor chip (1413) may be a controller chip that controls one or more sensors provided in the electrode area (1411), or a memory chip that stores information of the tip (1000) (e.g., ID or shot count, etc.).
[0105] One or more semiconductor chips (1413) may be provided at various locations on the substrate (1410). For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the semiconductor chip (1413) may be located on a second surface which is the back surface of the first surface where the electrode (1420) is located.
[0106] FIG. 9 is an exemplary drawing for further explaining the configuration of the cover member (1500) illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 9, the cover member (1500) may include a cover plate (1510), one or more connection holes (1511), and an inlet guide (1520).
[0108] The cover plate (1510) forms the body of the cover member (1500).
[0109] One or more connection holes (1511) are formed on the cover plate (1510) as perforated holes to expose the terminals (1430) of the electrode module (1400) fitted into the frame (1200, 1500).
[0110] The inlet guide (1520) is configured to guide the position of the inlet (1320) of the cooling module (1300). The inlet (1320) of the cooling module (1300) passes through the inlet guide (1520) or is connected to the refrigerant injection port of the handpiece (2000) inside the inlet guide (1520).
[0111] In one embodiment, a cover fastening portion (1530) for connecting a cover member (1500) to a base member (1200) may be provided on the bottom surface of the cover plate (1510). For example, a cover fastening portion (1530) in the form of a hook or a projection may be provided, and the cover member (1500) and the base member (1200) may be connected in such a manner that the cover fastening portion (1530) is connected to a frame fastening portion (1221) of the base member (1200).
[0112] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an exemplary assembly method of a tip (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0113] Referring to FIG. 10, a cooling module (1300) is first inserted into the receptacle (1210) of the base member (1200). Then, in that state, a cover member (1500) is joined at a position facing the cooling module (1300). At this time, the inlet (1320) of the cooling module (1300) is inserted into the inlet guide (1520) of the cover member (1500), and the positions of the cover member (1500), the base member (1200), and the cooling module (1300) are aligned with each other.
[0114] Then, the electrode module (1400) is fitted together with the frame (1200, 1500). After fitting together, a first space (S1) is defined by the receptacle (1210) of the base member (1200) and the electrode region (1411) of the electrode module (1400). For example, the space enclosed by the receptacle (1210) and the electrode region (1411) becomes the first space (S1).
[0115] Finally, the housing (1100) is combined with the frame (1200, 1500) to complete the assembly of the tip (1000).
[0116] FIG. 11 is a drawing for illustrating the internal space of a tip (1000) partitioned by the main components (1100, 1200, 1500) of the tip (1000). For convenience of explanation, one or more legs (1412) of the electrode module (1400) are not shown in FIG. 11.
[0117] The internal space of the tip (1000) may include a first space (S1), a second space (S2), and / or a third space (S3).
[0118] The first space (S1) is a space that is at least partially partitioned by the base member (1200), for example, a space surrounded by a receptacle (1210) and an electrode area (1411). The first space (S1) may be a space where a refrigerant is sprayed by a cooling module (1300).
[0119] The second space (S2) is a space partitioned by the frame (1200, 1500) and the housing (1100), for example, it may be the space between the frame (1200, 1500) and the housing (1100). The second space (S2) may be connected to the first space (S1) under certain conditions. For example, if there is a hole perforated in the receptacle (1210), the refrigerant located in the first space (S1) may flow into the second space (S2) through the perforated hole.
[0120] The third space (S3) is a space partitioned by the cover member (1500) and the housing (1100), and, for example, may be a space facing outward from the cover member (1500). The third space (S3) is an open space when the tip (1000) is separated from the handpiece (2000), but becomes a closed space when the tip (1000) is combined with the handpiece (2000), as the outside is closed by the connection surface of the handpiece (2000). The third space (S3) may be connected to the second space (S2) under certain conditions. For example, if there is a hole or undercut perforated in the cover plate (1510), the refrigerant located in the second space (S2) may flow into the third space (S3) through the perforated hole or undercut.
[0121] Hereinafter, various embodiments for forming fluid channels for fluid communication between spaces (S1, S2, S3) within the tip (1000), or for fluid communication between spaces (S1, S2, S3) within the tip (1000) and an external space will be described.
[0122] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing various embodiments in which a fluid channel is formed inside the tip (1000) to more effectively remove residual refrigerant inside the tip (1000).
[0123] FIG. 12(a) illustrates an embodiment in which a fluid channel is formed only in the base member (1200). This may be, for example, formed by perforating a hole as a first channel (10) in the receptacle (1210) of the base member (1200). In this case, the first space (S1) and the second space (S2) are connected to each other through the first channel (10).
[0124] This is to ensure that no residual refrigerant remains in the first space (S1) by causing the refrigerant irradiated in the first space (S1) to evaporate or be discharged quickly after irradiation. For example, if the first space (S1) is a closed space, the refrigerant irradiated in the first space (S1) remains in the first space (S1) even after cooling, and may liquefy over time and accumulate in a liquid state inside the tip (1000). In this case, the refrigerant accumulated inside the tip (1000) may leak out through the assembly surface or gaps of the tip (1000) and fall onto the skin or face of the patient, causing discomfort or unexpected accidents during the procedure.
[0125] Accordingly, by forming a first channel (10) in the base member (1200) so that the first space (S1) communicates with the second space (S2), the irradiated refrigerant flows into the second space (S2) and can therefore evaporate more easily or be discharged to the outside.
[0126] FIG. 12(b) illustrates an embodiment in which a second channel (20) is formed in the cover member (1500) together with the first channel (10) of the base member (1200). The second channel (20) may, for example, be an undercut in one area of the cover plate (1510). However, this is exemplary and the scope of the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the second channel (20) may be formed by a perforated hole in one area of the cover plate (1510).
[0127] In FIG. 12 (b), the second space (S2) is connected to the third space (S3) through the second channel (20). Accordingly, the refrigerant irradiated into the first space (S1) flows into the second space (S2) through the first channel (10) and is also connected to the third space (S3), allowing it to flow in a wider space, which further promotes the evaporation of the remaining refrigerant.
[0128] FIG. 12(c) illustrates an embodiment in which a third channel (30) is formed in the housing (1100) together with the first channel (10) of the base member (1200). The third channel (30) may, for example, be formed by creating one or more perforated holes in the body portion (1110) of the housing (1100). In this case, the second space (S2) or the third space (S3) communicates with the outside of the housing through the third channel (30). Accordingly, the refrigerant irradiated into the first space (S1) flows into the second space (S2) through the first channel (10), and then communicates with the outside of the housing through the third channel (30), allowing it to evaporate more easily or be discharged directly to the outside of the housing.
[0129] Fig. 12(c) may have additional advantageous effects in addition to the removal of residual refrigerant. For example, residual refrigerant discharged outside the housing through the third channel (30) flows along the outer wall of the housing (1100) to reach the treatment site of the patient, thereby having the effect of directly cooling the treatment site. Thus, it is possible to simultaneously achieve cooling the electrode (1420) inside the tip (1000) and directly cooling the treatment site (e.g., the patient's skin) outside the tip (1000).
[0130] Meanwhile, FIG. 12 (d) illustrates a coupling surface (2100) of a handpiece (2000) coupled with a tip (1000). Referring to FIG. 12 (d), the coupling surface (2100) of the handpiece (2000) may be equipped with a refrigerant injection part (2110) connected to an inlet (1320) of a cooling module (1300) to supply refrigerant to the cooling module (1300), and a conductive connector (2120) in contact with a terminal (1430) of an electrode module (1400) to supply electrical energy to the terminal (1430).
[0131] In one embodiment, the conductive connector (2120) may be a spring pin connector such as a POGO pin.
[0132] Meanwhile, a packing member (not shown) may be applied between the refrigerant injection part (2110) and the inlet (1320). The packing member is a member that is fitted into the refrigerant injection part (2110) and / or the inlet (1320) to maintain airtightness between the refrigerant injection part (2110) and the inlet (1320), and may be composed of synthetic resin, metal, fabric, and / or wood.
[0133] It may be very important to maintain airtightness between the refrigerant injection part (2110) and the inlet (1320) through a packing member. For example, if there is no packing member, when refrigerant is injected, refrigerant may leak from the connection point between the refrigerant injection part (2110) and the inlet (1320), resulting in a loss of refrigerant and a reduction in cooling effect. Additionally, the leaked refrigerant may flow to the coupling surface (2100) of the handpiece (2000) and cause damage to the product, such as freezing the surrounding components.
[0134] Figure 13 is a graph showing the results of an experiment comparing the difference between cases where a packing member is applied and cases where it is not.
[0135] Referring to the graph in Fig. 13, it can be seen that when a packing member is not applied, the temperature at the bottom of the tip electrode is not sufficiently cooled from 10 to 32 degrees, whereas the temperature of the solenoid nozzle coupling part, that is, the coupling surface (2100) of the handpiece (2000), is between -35 degrees and 52 degrees, which has the effect of freezing the components of the coupling surface (2100).
[0136] In contrast, when a packing member is applied, the refrigerant is fully delivered to the tip, so the temperature at the bottom of the tip electrode is between -6 and 10 degrees, and the cooling effect is significantly improved, and the temperature of the solenoid nozzle coupling part, that is, the coupling surface (2100) of the handpiece (2000), is maintained between 0 and 10 degrees, so that the components of the coupling surface (2100) are not frozen.
[0137] According to the embodiments of the present invention described so far, an effective cooling structure capable of cooling a tip or a treatment site during a procedure of a high-frequency output device can be provided.
[0138] In addition, the refrigerant can be dispersed and irradiated onto the high-temperature portion of the tip, thereby enhancing the cooling effect and uniformly lowering the temperature of the tip.
[0139] In addition, by providing one or more channels that communicate between spaces inside the tip or between the inside and outside of the tip, the residual refrigerant inside the tip can be rapidly evaporated or discharged, thereby effectively preventing the residual refrigerant from liquefying and accumulating as liquid inside the tip.
[0140] In addition, by applying a packing member between the handpiece and the tip, the cooling effect of the tip can be further enhanced, and freezing can be prevented at the joint between the tip and the handpiece.
[0141] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical concept or essential features thereof. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within the equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the technical concept defined by the present invention.
[0142]
[0143] Explanation of the symbols
[0144] 100: High-frequency generator 1000: Tip
[0145] 2000: Handpiece 3000: Main body
[0146] 1100: Housing 1200: Base member
[0147] 1300: Cooling module 1400: Electrode module
[0148] 1500: Cover missing
Claims
1. Regarding a tip attachable to a handpiece, Housing; A frame coupled to the above housing; An electrode module coupled to the above frame and outputting electrical energy of a predetermined frequency; and It includes a cooling module that sprays a refrigerant into a first space at least partially partitioned by the above frame, and The above electrode module is, Substrate; and It includes an electrode formed in one region of the substrate and outputting electrical energy toward the outside of the housing, The above refrigerant is, After flowing from the handpiece into the cooling module, sprayed toward the one region of the substrate, tip.
2. In Paragraph 1, The above cooling module is, An inlet into which the above refrigerant flows; A plurality of outlets into which the refrigerant introduced into the inlet is sprayed into the first space; and It includes a cooling plate that defines a flow path between the inlet and the plurality of outlets, The above Euro is, A plurality of branches extending from a first point adjacent to the inlet to each of the plurality of outlets so that the refrigerant introduced through the inlet is dispersed and flows to the plurality of outlets, tip.
3. In Paragraph 2, The above cooling plate is, A first plate having the above-mentioned inlet formed therein; A second plate having a plurality of outlets formed therein; and A diffusion member for diffusing the above refrigerant into the plurality of branches, tip.
4. In Paragraph 3, The above diffusion member is, Formed on the first plate or the second plate, One end of the above-mentioned diffusion member faces the above-mentioned first point and has a narrower cross-sectional area than the other end of the above-mentioned diffusion member, tip.
5. In Paragraph 4, The above diffusion member is, Cone or polygonal pyramidal shape, tip.
6. In Paragraph 1, The above frame is, A base member that at least partially surrounds the first space; and It includes a cover member coupled to the base member, and A second space is formed between the frame and the housing, and In the above base member, A first channel is formed to connect the first space and the second space, tip.
7. In Paragraph 6, A third space is formed between the above frame and the above handpiece, and The above cover member, A second channel is formed to connect the second space and the third space, tip.
8. In Paragraph 6 or 7, A third channel is formed in the above housing, and The above third channel is, Connecting the second space or the third space to the outside of the housing, tip.
9. In Paragraph 1, The above substrate is, It includes one or more legs extending from the above-mentioned area, and The above one or more legs are, A terminal electrically connected to the handpiece and receiving electrical energy from the handpiece; and including wiring that electrically connects the above terminal to the above electrode, tip.
10. In Paragraph 9, The above one or more legs are, Composed of a flexible material and fitted into the frame to fix the electrode module to the frame, tip.
11. Main body; A handpiece connected to the main body above; and It includes a tip that is coupled to the handpiece and, while coupled to the handpiece, receives electrical energy from the handpiece and outputs it toward human body tissue, The above tip is, Housing; A frame coupled to the above housing; An electrode module coupled to the above frame and outputting electrical energy of a predetermined frequency; and It includes a cooling module that sprays a refrigerant into a first space at least partially partitioned by the above frame, and The above electrode module is, Substrate; and It includes an electrode formed in one region of the above substrate and outputting electrical energy toward the body tissue, The above refrigerant is, After flowing from the handpiece into the cooling module, sprayed toward the one region of the substrate, High-frequency output device.
12. In a handpiece for a high-frequency output device, tip; An electric circuit for providing electrical energy of a predetermined frequency to the above tip; and It includes a controller that controls the operation of the above electrical circuit, The above tip is, Housing; A frame coupled to the above housing; An electrode module coupled to the above frame and outputting electrical energy of a predetermined frequency; and It includes a cooling module that sprays a refrigerant into a first space at least partially partitioned by the above frame, and The above electrode module is, Substrate; and It includes an electrode formed in one region of the substrate and outputting electrical energy toward the outside of the housing, The above refrigerant is, After flowing from the handpiece into the cooling module, sprayed toward the one region of the substrate, Handpiece for high-frequency output device.