Therapeutic Shockwave Generation Through Nonlinear Acoustic Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for generating therapeutic shockwaves are unpredictable and fail to produce consistent high-frequency shockwaves suitable for medical and aesthetic therapies, leading to inconsistent treatment outcomes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for generating high-frequency shockwaves using acoustic waves between 1 MHz and 1000 MHz, utilizing a shockwave housing with a nonlinear medium to form shockwaves, which are directed to target cells to rupture cellular structures, such as tattoos or skin markings, with minimal damage to surrounding tissues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional shockwave generation methods are used (electric discharge between electrodes or focused ultrasound), then shockwaves can be generated, but the frequency and consistency are unpredictable and cannot achieve high-frequency consistent shockwaves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a shockwave-generating medium as an intermediary between the acoustic wave source and the target tissue. This medium converts acoustic waves into shockwaves through nonlinear acoustic effects, enabling predictable high-frequency shockwave generation. The medium acts as a mediator that transforms the input acoustic energy into the desired shockwave form with consistent characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical shockwave generation methods (electric discharge, focused ultrasound) with an acoustic wave-based system. By using acoustic waves to generate shockwaves through a medium, the system achieves more predictable frequency control and consistent treatment outcomes, substituting the mechanical/electrical generation approach with an acoustic field approach.
2Manufacturing precision
If high-frequency acoustic waves are used to generate shockwaves, then consistent shockwaves can be produced, but the apparatus complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the acoustic wave system, specifically using high-frequency acoustic waves (above 20 kHz) to generate shockwaves. By adjusting the frequency parameter and using a shockwave-generating medium, the system achieves consistent high-frequency shockwave generation. This parameter change approach allows control over shockwave characteristics without requiring overly complex apparatus design.
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 apparatus allows for predictable and consistent delivery of high-frequency shockwaves that effectively rupture targeted cells, providing effective tattoo removal with minimal pain and tissue damage.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic-wave generator configured to emit acoustic waves having at least one frequency between 1 MHz and 1000 MHz
Implementation Method 2
the shockwave medium is configured such that in the presence of acoustic waves from the acoustic-wave generator the shockwave medium will exhibit nonlinear properties
Implementation Method 3
the shock waves are configured to cause particles to rupture one or more of the cells
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods to generate high frequency shock waves in a controlled manner. The generated shock waves can be delivered to certain cellular structures of a patient for use in medical and/or aesthetic therapeutic applications. The shock waves can be configured to impose sufficient mechanical stress to the targeted cells of the tissue to rupture the targeted cells. Embodiments of the apparatuses and methods of the present invention provide targeted rupturing of specific cells without damaging side effects such as cavitation or thermal degradation of surrounding non-targeted cells.