Nasal Irradiation Device for Pathogen Eradication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack an effective method to eradicate pathogens, such as the COVID-19 virus, within the nasal passages using photobiomodulation devices.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a housing designed to be inserted into nasal passages, equipped with radiation sources emitting red visible light at specific frequencies, and an electrical circuit for controlling the radiation sources to eradicate pathogens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a radiation source is inserted into the nasal passage to eradicate pathogens, then pathogen eradication effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a housing for insertion, multiple radiation sources (LEDs) positioned at different locations, and an electrical circuit board with separate control components. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while simplifying the overall design and manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The radiation sources emit light at specific wavelengths (red and near-infrared) that serve multiple functions: directly eradicating pathogens through photodynamic effect, reducing viral load, providing anti-inflammatory effects, and promoting tissue regeneration. This multi-functionality is achieved through careful selection of radiation wavelengths rather than requiring separate devices for each function.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple radiation sources are used to cover different portions of the nasal passage, then pathogen eradication coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple radiation sources are distributed at different positions along the housing, with each source targeting specific portions of the nasal passage. The housing itself is designed with a curved outer periphery that follows the anatomy of the nasal passage, ensuring comprehensive coverage without requiring complex positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with a curved outer periphery in the radial direction, allowing it to conform to the curved geometry of the nasal passage. This curvature enables the radiation sources to effectively irradiate different portions of the nasal lining as the device is inserted, maximizing coverage area without adding mechanical complexity for adjustment or rotation.
3Area of stationary object
If the housing is designed to be moved axially and rotated within the nasal passage, then irradiation coverage is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing features a curved outer periphery that naturally conforms to the nasal passage geometry. This curved design allows the device to be easily inserted and to passively adapt to the nasal passage shape through simple insertion movements, eliminating the need for complex rotation or adjustment mechanisms while still achieving comprehensive irradiation coverage.
4Reliability
If radiation sources emit at specific frequencies to eradicate pathogens, then pathogen eradication effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The radiation sources are selected and configured to emit at specific wavelengths (red light and near-infrared) that have been shown to be effective for pathogen eradication. These wavelength parameters are chosen based on established photobiomodulation research, allowing effective pathogen treatment without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances. The LEDs are designed with standard wavelength specifications that are achievable through conventional manufacturing processes.
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 device effectively eradicates pathogens by emitting radiation at specific frequencies, reducing the viral load and shedding, and providing anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects within the nasal passages.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one radiation source comprises at least one light emitting diode (LED)
Implementation Method 2
Pulsed Near-Infrared Photobiomodulation (PNIP) is another technique which uses radiant light energy to modify biological systems with a resulting therapeutic effect
Data Source
AI summary
A device for eradicating at least one pathogen in a nasal passage of a human or animal may include a housing configured to be inserted into the nasal passage, at least one radiation source, configured to emit radiation, coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of a radiation emitting surface, upon insertion of the housing into the nasal passage, faces at least a portion of nasal lining of the nasal passage, and an electrical circuit carried by the housing and electrically connected to the at least one radiation source, the electrical circuit including at least one circuit component for controlling the at least one radiation source to emit the radiation to irradiate the nasal passage, the emitted radiation having a frequency or range of frequencies at which the at least one pathogen in the nasal passage, when irradiated by the emitted radiation, is eradicated.