Cordless Laser Probe Heat Channel and Ventilator Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current low-level laser therapy (LLLT) laser probes are hindered by inefficiencies in heat removal, leading to elevated temperatures that can damage laser diodes and limit their operational time and lifespan. Additionally, the probes are often cumbersome due to their wired connection to a power supply, making them less suitable for private household use and limiting their application to external treatments.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a laser head design with an outer and inner cap forming a heat channel with an exhaust, which enhances heat removal through convection. This design includes a ventilator to create a turbulent airflow, reducing the need for passive cooling and allowing for more compact and lightweight construction. Furthermore, the use of an insert lens in the laser diodes adjusts beam divergence, reducing light loss and heat generation. The laser probe is also made cordless by integrating a battery, allowing for more flexible use, including internal treatments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If passive cooling is used in the laser probe, then the structure is simpler, but the heat removal efficiency is insufficient causing high temperatures that damage laser diodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic cooling by introducing a cooling fan that forces air flow through the laser probe housing. The fan creates a controlled airflow path that actively removes heat from the laser diodes, transitioning from passive to active thermal management using fluid dynamics principles
Solution Approach 2:
The laser probe housing is segmented into distinct functional zones: an air inlet channel, a heat dissipation chamber containing the laser diodes, and an air outlet channel. This segmentation allows optimized thermal management by separating the cooling airflow path from the optical treatment path
2Power
If the laser probe is connected by a cord to a power supply, then the power supply is sufficient, but the system becomes heavy and not easily moveable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power supply from the main body of the laser probe and places it in a separate, removable battery pack. This allows the power supply to be detached when not needed, reducing the weight of the moving laser probe while maintaining sufficient power capacity when the battery is attached
Solution Approach 2:
The laser probe transitions from a static wired design to a dynamic cordless design with a removable battery pack. The system adapts its configuration based on usage needs, allowing the user to attach or detach the battery pack to optimize between portability and operational flexibility
3Ease of operation
If buttons are added to the laser probe for controlling operational parameters, then the probe can be cordless, but the hygiene level is reduced as buttons are hard to clean
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (Bluetooth module) that enables communication between the smartphone and the laser probe without physical buttons. The smartphone serves as a remote control interface, allowing parameter adjustment while keeping the laser probe surface clean and easy to sanitize
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical button interface with an electronic wireless interface. Control signals are transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth communication, eliminating the need for physical buttons on the laser probe and enabling a fully sealable, easy-to-clean surface
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 improved heat removal system extends the operational time of the laser probe and increases the lifespan of the laser diodes, while the cordless design enhances user mobility and hygiene by eliminating buttons and reducing the risk of infection. The efficient heat management also enables safe use of the laser probe inside the human body for treatments like oral, anal, and vaginal therapy.
Implementation Method 1
The inner cap further comprises a centrally positioned ventilator for creating a flow from the inlet channel through the heat channel
Implementation Method 2
The inner and outer cap form a heat channel which has an exhaust in-between the caps
Implementation Method 3
an insert lens positioned within the housing between the emitter and the window for adjusting beam divergence
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to, for example, a method of changing operational parameters of a laser probe. The method including the steps of recognising a connection pattern between the laser probe and a battery, setting the laser probe in a programmable mode, and receiving instructions for changing the operational parameters of the laser probe.