Fractional RF Electrode Array for Wet Tissue Energy Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fractional RF treatment devices are ineffective in delivering RF energy effectively in wet environments, such as natural openings like the vagina, anus, nose, and mouth, due to significant RF leakage through liquids.
Innovation Solution
An applicator with a mechanism for inserting an array of sharp electrodes into natural openings, delivering RF energy to the electrodes, and using a design that minimizes leakage by employing conductive elements with partial non-conductive coatings and controlled delivery mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-insertable electrodes are used for RF treatment, then the device is simpler and easier to operate, but RF energy delivery is ineffective in wet environments due to significant RF leakage through liquids
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is segmented into multiple individual conductive elements (needles) that can be independently controlled. Each needle can be inserted to a specific depth and coated with non-conductive material at specific segments, allowing precise control of RF energy delivery zones while maintaining simplicity of the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive elements are partially coated with non-conductive material at specific locations along their length. This local quality modification allows RF energy to be delivered at specific depths (where the coating ends) while preventing energy leakage through the liquid environment at the surface level (where the coating is present).
2Reliability
If electrodes are inserted into tissue, then RF energy can be delivered effectively, but the risk of trauma and infection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive elements are partially coated with non-conductive material, creating a balance between insertion trauma and RF energy delivery. The coating protects the tissue during insertion and minimizes surface trauma, while the uncoated portion at the tip allows effective RF energy delivery with minimal excessive heating or damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-conductive coating acts as an intermediary layer during the insertion process, protecting the tissue from direct contact with the sharp conductive elements. This intermediary coating is removed or ends at the treatment zone, allowing RF energy delivery without the intermediary, thus achieving both safe insertion and effective treatment.
3Loss of energy
If conductive elements are coated with non-conductive material, then RF leakage is minimized, but the complexity of electrode manufacturing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process utilizes parameter changes in the coating application, such as controlling the coating length, thickness, and material properties to optimize both RF leakage prevention and manufacturing simplicity. The coating parameters are standardized to facilitate efficient production while achieving the desired energy containment.
4Productivity
If multiple conductive elements are used for faster treatment, then productivity increases, but the force required for insertion into tissue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is segmented into multiple thin conductive elements rather than a single large electrode. This segmentation distributes the insertion force across multiple smaller elements, reducing the total force required for insertion while maintaining treatment productivity through the parallel action of multiple elements delivering RF energy simultaneously.
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 effective RF energy delivery and fractional treatment in wet environments by minimizing energy loss and promoting faster healing through controlled thermal effects.
Implementation Method 1
An RF generator is configured for delivering RF energy to the array of electrode
Implementation Method 2
the needle surfaces can be partially coated with non-conductive material for delivering more RF energy inside the tissue and less energy to the surface
Implementation Method 3
fractional injuries to the skin and dermis can be delivered by laser systems such as FRAXEL, which sends small beams of erbium glass laser wavelengths into the dermis or alternatively fractional devices as micro-needling, surface ablation or invasive needling
Data Source
AI summary
A method of applying RF energy includes using an RF energy applicator assembly to apply RF energy to a tissue. The RF energy applicator assembly includes a housing, and RF electrodes coupled to an RF energy source and movably mounted in the housing. The RF electrodes have a retracted position, in which the RF electrodes are retracted inside the housing, and deployed positions in which the RF electrodes protrude out of the housing at different protrusion lengths. An actuator is coupled to the RF electrodes and configured to move the RF electrodes from the retracted position to any one of the deployed positions.