Flexible RF Applicator for Fat Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electromagnetic applicators for fat reduction using high-frequency waves face challenges with complex setup and adjustment due to varying body shapes, require precise electrode positioning, and are uncomfortable for patients due to limited mobility during treatment.
Innovation Solution
A flexible applicator with integrated electrodes and counter electrodes housed in a base body, featuring spacers and air channels for active airflow, allowing adaptation to body shape and preventing overheating while enabling patient mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrodes are housed in separate base bodies requiring independent positioning, then the applicator can treat various body regions, but the setup and adjustment time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate electrodes and their base bodies into a single integrated applicator unit. The first and second electrodes are mounted on a common base body, eliminating the need for separate positioning operations. This merging reduces setup time while maintaining the ability to treat various body regions through the unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The base body is designed to be flexible rather than rigid, allowing it to adapt dynamically to different body shapes and contours. This flexibility enables the applicator to maintain proper electrode positioning across various body regions without requiring complex mechanical adjustments, thereby reducing setup time while preserving versatility.
2Ease of operation
If electrodes are positioned at a distance from the body surface for contactless treatment, then patient comfort improves, but aligning and adjusting the electrodes becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The base body is constructed as a flexible structure that can conform to the body surface contour. This flexibility allows the electrodes to maintain an optimal distance from the body without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms. The flexible base body adapts to different body shapes automatically, simplifying the alignment process while preserving patient comfort.
3Manufacturing precision
If the applicator is fixed in position relative to the patient, then treatment precision is maintained, but patient mobility is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible base body enables the applicator to move with the patient's body rather than requiring the patient to remain completely still. The flexibility allows the applicator to maintain proper contact and electrode positioning even when the patient moves to some extent, thereby preserving treatment precision while improving patient comfort and mobility during treatment.
4Measurement precision
If multiple separate components are used for electrode positioning, then precise distance control is achieved, but the applicator structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the positioning function directly into the flexible base body structure itself, rather than using separate positioning components. The base body's flexible nature inherently maintains proper electrode spacing and orientation, eliminating the need for additional mechanical positioning devices and simplifying the overall structure while preserving measurement precision.
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 applicator simplifies setup, ensures consistent treatment efficacy by maintaining electrode distance, provides active cooling, and enhances patient comfort by allowing movement during treatment, reducing skin overheating and perspiration.
Implementation Method 1
The applicator is particularly suitable for use in a device for fat reduction, e.g., by temperature-induced cell apoptosis, wherein the heating of the adipose tissue is achieved by means of a high-frequency electromagnetic field applied by the applicator
Implementation Method 2
the applicator has channels for supplying and/or removing air, and wherein the applicator has several openings on the side facing the body that are fluid-connected to the channels
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
The present invention relates to an applicator (1) for applying an electromagnetic field to body tissue, in particular to subcutaneous adipose tissue. The applied electromagnetic field is in particular high-frequency waves (RF waves). The applicator (1) has at least one electrode and at least one counter electrode, as well as a flexible base body. The at least one electrode and the at least one counter electrode are mounted in the base body. The applicator (1) has several spacers (6) on a side (5) facing the body. The applicator (1) has channels (7) for supplying and/or removing air, wherein the applicator (1) has several openings on the side (5) facing the body that are connected to the channels (7) by fluid.