Recessed LED Phototherapy Mask with Reflective Apertures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing at-home light therapy devices for skin treatment are often one-size-fits-all, uncomfortable, and pose safety risks due to exposed LEDs and circuitry, lacking adjustability and proper eye protection, which limits their effectiveness and user convenience.
Innovation Solution
A wearable, adjustable phototherapy system with recessed LEDs and reflective surfaces, a malleable frame for secure and comfortable fit, and integrated eye protection using a frame with lenses or goggles, along with a remote battery pack and control processor for customizable light therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If LEDs are disposed to maximize light communication to the patient, then light therapy effectiveness is improved, but the LEDs and circuitry become exposed and contactable by the patient, causing safety risks and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds the LEDs and circuitry within a multi-layered mask structure where the light-emitting components are nested between outer and inner layers, making them inaccessible to patient contact while preserving light transmission through controlled apertures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary reflective surface and aperture system that mediates between the exposed LEDs and the patient's skin, allowing light communication while preventing direct contact with harmful components
2Productivity
If the mask is disposed relatively close to the face to maximize light therapy, then therapeutic efficiency is improved, but the exposed circuitry creates an intimidating and unpleasant experience causing claustrophobia
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the circuitry and electronic components from the visible front surface of the mask, relocating them to the rear or embedded within structural layers, thereby eliminating the intimidating appearance while maintaining close facial positioning for therapeutic efficiency
3Ease of operation
If the device is made hands-free using straps and mounting assemblies, then ease of operation is improved, but the attachment structure presses closely against the patient's head causing discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible, thin-walled construction for the mask body and attachment components that can conform to head contours without creating concentrated pressure points, distributing force evenly across larger surface areas
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates adjustable and flexible mounting mechanisms that can adapt to different head sizes and shapes, allowing the device to achieve secure hands-free attachment while minimizing uncomfortable pressure through dynamic adjustment
4Adaptability or versatility
If the device is made adjustable for different user sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the mask into segmented, modular components with adjustable elements (such as adjustable temples, nose pads, and headbands) that can be independently configured, allowing size adaptation without requiring complex integrated mechanisms
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 provides a comfortable, hands-free, and adjustable light therapy experience that maximizes light dispersion and safety, accommodating various user sizes and skin conditions while minimizing discomfort and risk of eye damage.
Implementation Method 1
The second wall comprises a reflective surface facing towards a patient and a plurality of light apertures substantially aligned with the LEDs on the first wall for communicating lamp radiation from the lamps to the user
Data Source
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AI summary
Phototherapy systems comprising a therapeutic lamp platform for radiant lamps such as LEDs disposed in an assembly comprising a first wall to which the lamps are affixed thereto and a second wall, closer to the patient, spaced from the first wall wherein the lamps are recessed relative thereto. The second wall comprises a reflective surface facing towards a patient and a plurality of light apertures substantially aligned with the LEDs on the first wall for communicating lamp radiation from the lamps to a user. The lamps and associated circuitry are disposed between the first and second wall so that the reflective surface is relatively smooth and seamless towards the patient. The walls may include an eye slot. The device is mounted to the user with a frame comprising an eyeglass frame or goggles including lenses for shielding the user's eyes from lamp radiation.