Dual Modality Energy Delivery System for Musculoskeletal Pain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light therapy devices for musculoskeletal pain and tissue healing are inconvenient for self-administration, particularly for hard-to-reach areas, and often require bulky batteries or external power, limiting their portability and ease of use.
Innovation Solution
A dual modality system combining a durable energy subsystem with a replaceable thermal subsystem, featuring a flexible chassis and adhesive surface for secure attachment to the body, allowing for continuous or intermittent energy delivery, including light and thermal therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the device is made self-contained with integral housing and battery pack, then the device is more portable and convenient for home use, but the device becomes heavier and bulkier
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two main segments: a reusable control unit containing the processor and light delivery mechanisms, and a replaceable power unit containing the battery pack. This segmentation allows the user to carry only the lightweight control unit during treatment, while the heavier battery pack remains stationary or is replaced as needed, thus reducing the weight burden during actual use.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery pack is extracted from the integral housing and made as a separate replaceable unit. This extraction allows the main device body to be significantly lighter and more portable, while the heavy power source can be kept separately or replaced without carrying it during treatment sessions.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the device is held in position by the user for extended periods, then the treatment can be administered, but the user experiences discomfort and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates self-adjustment mechanisms including automatic positioning aids and feedback systems that allow the device to maintain optimal treatment position without requiring continuous active holding by the user. The system can automatically adjust parameters and maintain contact pressure, enabling hands-free or minimal-touch operation during extended treatment periods.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the device is strapped to the body for treatment, then the device remains in position, but the user cannot see or access the control display
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface is moved from the front face of the device to the rear side or to a remotely accessible location. This dimensional repositioning allows the user to strap the device to any body part including the back, while still being able to access and view the control display from behind or from a distance, eliminating the visibility problem.
4Area of stationary object
If light therapy is delivered to the entire body surface, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but the risk of cellular damage and burns increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that detect tissue characteristics and automatically adjust light intensity and duration for each specific treatment location. Different areas of the body receive customized light dosages based on their individual needs and sensitivity, ensuring optimal therapeutic effect while preventing overtreatment and potential damage to any particular region.
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
Enables convenient, portable, and effective treatment of musculoskeletal pain and tissue healing by allowing secure attachment and continuous energy delivery, improving user experience and treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are positioned in the housing such that they emit light from the applicator end of the device
Implementation Method 2
a replaceable thermal subsystem coupled to the durable energy subsystem arranged and configured to deliver thermal energy
Data Source
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AI summary
A dual modality system includes a chassis having a receptacle and means to couple the chassis to a desired treatment area of a user's body; a durable energy subsystem coupled to the chassis, arranged and configured to deliver energy to the desired treatment area of a user's body; and a replaceable thermal subsystem arranged and configured for removable placement in the receptacle of the chassis, arranged and configured to deliver thermal energy.