Flexible Light Array Pads for Even Therapeutic Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing therapeutic light systems face challenges in evenly applying light across a target treatment area, particularly when patients are in seated or lying positions, leading to uneven light distribution and potential heat buildup, which can cause discomfort or harm.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring flexible light array pads with multiple light emitters emitting different wavelengths, controlled by a control system that adjusts intensity and temperature, and includes reflective inserts to ensure even light distribution and patient safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If therapeutic lights are positioned in close proximity to the patient's skin for seated or lying positions, then light intensity and treatment effectiveness are improved, but heat buildup occurs causing discomfort or harm
Solution Approach 1:
The therapeutic light system is divided into multiple independent light emitter modules arranged in an array pattern. Each module can be independently controlled to emit light at different positions and intensities, allowing the system to provide high light intensity across the treatment area while distributing heat generation across multiple spaced-apart sources rather than concentrating it at a single close-proximity location
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements periodic or pulsed illumination patterns where light emitters are activated in sequences rather than continuously. This allows the treatment area to receive intensive light exposure for therapeutic effect while providing periodic rest intervals that prevent heat accumulation, thereby maintaining both treatment effectiveness and patient comfort
2Manufacturing precision
If a chamber surrounds the patient with therapeutic lights, then even light distribution is achieved, but patient comfort is reduced due to treatment duration requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs movable or adjustable light emitter modules that can be dynamically repositioned relative to the patient. The control system adapts the position, angle, and intensity of individual light sources in real-time based on the patient's position and treatment progress, enabling even light distribution without requiring the patient to remain in a fixed chamber for extended periods
Solution Approach 2:
By dividing the light therapy system into multiple independently controllable emitter modules arranged in an array, the system can target specific treatment zones with high intensity while leaving other areas at lower intensity levels. This segmented approach allows for more flexible treatment durations and positions, improving patient comfort while maintaining distribution uniformity across the treatment area
3Reliability
If multiple wavelengths of light are used to enhance treatment efficacy, then treatment effectiveness is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The light emitter modules are designed as multi-functional units capable of generating multiple wavelengths of light (e.g., red, infrared, near-infrared) through integrated light sources. Each module serves multiple therapeutic functions simultaneously, allowing the system to provide comprehensive multi-wavelength treatment without requiring separate dedicated devices for each wavelength type
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple light emitter modules emitting different wavelengths are combined into a single integrated array system with unified control. The control system coordinates all modules to work together synergistically, merging the benefits of multiple wavelengths into one cohesive treatment platform that manages complexity through centralized control rather than requiring separate independent systems
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
The system provides even light application, reduces patient discomfort, and enhances treatment efficacy by allowing customizable light patterns and temperature regulation.
Implementation Method 1
Once absorbed, the light energy is converted to cellular energy, stimulating the body's natural processes on a cellular level and kicking off a whole series of metabolic events
Implementation Method 2
flexible light array pads with multiple light emitters emitting different wavelengths, controlled by a control system that adjusts intensity and temperature, and includes reflective inserts to ensure even light distribution
Implementation Method 3
Through careful observation it has been surprisingly discovered that targeted application of infrared light and/or near infrared light can supplement and improve the results and/or experience of red light therapy
Data Source
AI summary
In one or more arrangements, a system is presented for therapeutic light treatment. In one or more arrangements, the system includes chamber having a bed and a canopy operably connected thereto. The system includes a plurality of flexible light array pads positioned in the chamber so as to expose the patient to therapeutic light when operated. In one or more arrangements, the flexible light array pads have a plurality of light emitters positioned respectively in a plurality of windows. In one or more arrangements, the plurality of light emitters are configured to emit light in a plurality of different wavelengths. In one or more arrangements, the system includes a control system configured to control wavelength, intensity, waveforms and/or patterns of therapeutic light generated by the plurality of light emitters.