Flexible Multilayer Phototherapy Mask for Uniform Facial Irradiation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing phototherapy masks fail to fit the shape of a person's face uniformly, leading to irregular or non-uniform irradiation, resulting in overexposure and underexposure in certain areas.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically flexible phototherapy mask with a multilayer construction and suitable material composition, allowing for multiple curves and bends in both lengthwise and widthwise directions, featuring a flexible LED printed circuit board and thermal partitioning of LEDs for enhanced efficiency, along with a coupling arrangement and light diffuser for uniform light distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a rigid mask structure is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to face contours deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mask employs flexible silicone layers that can conform to various face shapes and contours. The flexible outer layer and inner layer are coupled together to maintain structural integrity while allowing the mask to adapt to individual face contours, ensuring uniform light distribution across different facial geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask transitions from a rigid static structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can change its shape to match the user's face contours. This flexibility allows the mask to adapt to different face shapes while maintaining proper positioning and uniform irradiation contact.
2Device complexity
If a single-layer mask structure is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different face shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mask is divided into multiple functional layers including a flexible outer layer, flexible inner layer, and coupling arrangement. This segmentation allows each layer to perform specific functions while collectively providing the adaptability needed to fit various face contours effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask utilizes composite construction combining different flexible materials with complementary properties. The outer and inner layers are made from flexible materials that work together to provide both structural support and contour adaptation, enhancing the mask's ability to fit various face shapes.
3Ease of manufacture
If LEDs are thermally coupled, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but operational efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The LED assembly is segmented into multiple independently mounted LEDs on a flexible PCB, with each LED thermally partitioned from others. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing while improving operational efficiency by preventing thermal interference between adjacent LEDs, thereby enhancing reliability.
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 mask provides a secure, uniform, and efficient light treatment that adapts to the face's contours, ensuring consistent irradiation and extended operational efficiency, addressing the limitations of existing designs.
Implementation Method 1
an LED assembly having a plurality of LEDs and a flexible LED printed circuit board to mount the LEDs
Implementation Method 2
a flexible inner layer positionable opposite the skin of a person... a coupling arrangement physically coupling the outer and inner layers together... LED assembly mounted between and positionally retained by the inner and outer layers
Data Source
AI summary
A LED phototherapy mask. The mask comprises a multilayer construction formed from at least one flexible material so as to be capable of being manipulated to adopt a desired 3D shape profile to fit the contours of a person's face.