Treatment Device Flash Sound Detection for Accurate Pulse Counting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing photo-epilation devices face challenges in accurately tracking the number of light pulses applied during treatment, leading to potential overtreatment due to user distraction or background noise, which can cause skin damage.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus and method using a trained algorithm or computing system to count flash sounds generated by the treatment device, segmenting audio signals, extracting characteristic features, and detecting flash sounds to accurately track the number of pulses, with features like MFCCs and XGBoost classification, and providing user interface feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate devices are used to perform different functions (e.g., device for applying treatment, device for determining treatment parameters, device for monitoring treatment), then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases and requires multiple devices to be coordinated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional optimizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple previously separate devices into a single integrated treatment device. The device for applying treatment, the device for determining treatment parameters, and the device for monitoring treatment are merged into one unified system, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices while maintaining all required functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The treatment device is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple tasks: applying treatment to the subject, determining treatment parameters based on subject characteristics, and monitoring the treatment progress. This universal device replaces several specialized devices with one versatile system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If treatment parameters are determined based on detailed subject characteristics (age, weight, medical history, etc.), then treatment precision and safety improve, but the time and complexity of treatment setup increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment parameter precisionVSAvoidtreatment setup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary data collection and processing by gathering subject characteristics (age, weight, medical history, etc.) before treatment begins. The processor pre-determines appropriate treatment parameters based on this data, so that when treatment starts, the parameters are already optimized and ready for immediate application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The monitoring device continuously monitors treatment progress and provides feedback to the processor. Based on this feedback, the system can adjust treatment parameters in real-time, ensuring optimal treatment while reducing the need for extensive pre-treatment setup time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If the treatment device is designed to be portable and movable, then accessibility and ease of use improve, but the power supply reliability and treatment consistency may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice portabilityVSAvoidpower supply reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates a rechargeable battery power supply that enables portable operation. The system dynamically adapts between battery-powered portable mode and mains-powered stationary mode, allowing the device to maintain reliability while providing mobility when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The power supply system can change its operational parameters between battery operation and mains operation. The device monitors power availability and adjusts its operation accordingly, ensuring consistent treatment delivery regardless of the power source being used

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4478973B1Apparatuses and methods for use with a treatment device
Publication Date: 2026.05.13 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV
  • EP4478973B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4478973B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4478973B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to apparatuses and methods for use with a treatment device configured to perform a treatment operation on a body part of a subject, wherein the treatment device is configured to apply light pulses to skin of the body part to perform the treatment operation and to output a flash sound per light pulse. A trained algorithm or computing system is used in an embodiment to reliably detect the flash sounds and inform the user to avoid overtreatment.