Laser Applicator Position Control for Timed Cooling Pulses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser systems lack a dynamic cooling mechanism that adjusts cooling and laser firing based on the position of the applicator relative to the treated tissue, leading to potential thermal injuries.
Innovation Solution
A laser system with a hand-held applicator equipped with a magnetic roller and sensor to detect position, a processor circuit to control the application of a cooling agent and laser based on detected position, and a cooling system to minimize thermal damage by timing the delivery of cooling agent and laser pulses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If continuous cooling is provided to the applicator during laser firing, then the applicator temperature is maintained, but fluid is wasted and treatment time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The cooling fluid is delivered in pulsed intervals synchronized with the laser firing sequence rather than continuously. The controller activates the cooling pump to deliver cooling fluid to the applicator only during laser firing periods, and stops delivery during intervals between pulses. This periodic action maintains applicator temperature control while dramatically reducing cooling fluid consumption and treatment time.
2Temperature
If cooling fluid is delivered continuously, then applicator cooling is ensured, but treatment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system synchronizes cooling fluid delivery with laser firing in a pulsed manner, delivering cooling fluid only during active laser treatment periods. The controller receives laser firing signals and activates the cooling pump accordingly, stopping cooling delivery during intervals between laser pulses. This eliminates unnecessary cooling during non-firing periods, significantly reducing overall treatment time while maintaining adequate applicator temperature control during active treatment.
3Loss of substance
If cooling fluid is delivered based on laser firing, then fluid waste is reduced, but applicator position tracking precision is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback control mechanism where the controller receives real-time signals from the laser firing system and uses this feedback to synchronize cooling fluid delivery. The controller monitors laser firing status and automatically adjusts cooling pump activation accordingly. This feedback loop ensures cooling is delivered precisely when needed without requiring complex position tracking systems, reducing fluid waste while maintaining system simplicity.
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 effectively minimizes thermal injury to the tissue by precisely controlling the application of cooling agents and laser pulses, ensuring optimal treatment conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a laser to deliver a laser light to a target
Implementation Method 2
the laser to deliver a laser light to a target and heat and/or destroy abnormal tissue
Implementation Method 3
a cooling agent to cool the applicator
Data Source
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AI summary
A laser system includes a base unit having a power source. A hand-held applicator is connected with the base unit configured to engage biological tissue for treatment. Position detection structure is associated with the applicator for determining a position of the applicator relative to the engaged biological tissue. A laser source generates a laser beam. A cooling system provides a cooling agent to the biological tissue during treatment. A processor circuit is connected with the position detection structure, the laser source and the cooling system. Based on data received from the position detection structure, the processor circuit triggers application of the cooling agent to the treated biological tissue, or triggers application of the cooling agent to the treated biological tissue, followed by a time delay, and then triggers the laser source.