Electrode Assembly With Aperture-Based Non-Contact Temperature Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing temperature sensing methods using thermistors in cosmetic energy-based devices are inaccurate due to interference from intervening elements and environmental factors, such as electromagnetic radiation and coolant, which hinder precise temperature measurement at the targeted tissue surface.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a non-contact thermal sensor within the electrode assembly, positioned to measure temperature via an aperture, allowing direct surface measurement without interference from intervening elements or environmental factors, and using a controller to regulate energy delivery based on sensor data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a thermistor is positioned proximate to the electrode to measure temperature, then temperature sensing is enabled, but measurement precision deteriorates due to intervening elements (printed circuit, coolant, electromagnetic interference)

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature measurement accuracyVSAvoidinterference from printed circuit, coolant, and electromagnetic radiation

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an optical intermediary (transparent window or aperture) that allows infrared radiation from the tissue surface to pass through to the thermal sensor without interference from coolant or printed circuits. This intermediary enables the sensor to 'see' the tissue surface temperature directly while physically separating the sensor from harmful environmental factors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the electrical/thermal contact-based thermistor sensing mechanism with a non-contact optical/infrared sensing mechanism. Instead of measuring temperature through physical contact or thermal conduction (which is blocked by intervening elements), the system uses infrared radiation detection to measure temperature remotely through the transparent window.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If a non-contact thermal sensor is used to measure surface temperature through an aperture, then measurement precision improves by avoiding intervening elements, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesurface temperature measurement accuracyVSAvoidsensor integration and aperture structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the temperature sensing function directly into the electrode assembly structure by integrating the thermal sensor and aperture into the existing electrode housing. This consolidation allows the sensing function to be added without requiring separate components or complex external mounting arrangements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent window or aperture in the electrode serves multiple functions: it allows infrared radiation to pass through to the sensor, maintains the structural integrity of the electrode assembly, and can be integrated with the cooling system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Provides accurate temperature sensing at the tissue surface, enabling precise control of energy delivery and coolant application, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and safety of cosmetic procedures.

Implementation Method 1

a thermal sensor arranged inside the housing. The thermal sensor is configured to generate sensor data indicative of temperature at a surface of the targeted area measured via the aperture

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal radiation: Thermal Radiation

Data Source

PatentUS12426940B2Electrode assemblies with non-contact temperature sensing for thermal measurements

Publication Date: 2025.09.30 SOLTA MEDICAL IRELAND LTD

AI summary

Devices for directing electromagnetic energy to tissue during cosmetic procedures, as well as methods of treatment and methods of device manufacture. An electrode assembly includes a housing, an electrode, and a thermal sensor arranged inside the housing. The electrode, which includes an aperture, is configured to deliver electrical energy to a targeted area of a patient. The thermal sensor is positioned relative to the aperture of the electrode to provide a field of view through the aperture to a surface of the targeted area. The thermal sensor is configured to generate sensor data indicative of a temperature at the surface of the targeted area, and to thereby provide non-contact temperature sensing.