Scanning Laser Device for Customizable Low-Level Therapy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser therapy devices for hair restoration and pain management lack the ability to customize laser beam shape and size, require continuous human intervention, and are limited by mechanical constraints and high costs, leading to inefficient and imprecise treatments.
Innovation Solution
A stand-alone laser device with scanning apparatus that allows for adjustable pulse widths, beam shapes, and scan patterns, enabling precise and customizable low-level laser therapy without the need for continuous human intervention, using multiple laser sources and advanced control systems to direct the laser beam across a patient's body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a rotating helmet with multiple laser diodes is used to achieve full scalp illumination, then the treatment area coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the treatment area into multiple zones and uses a single laser source that sequentially scans across different positions. The scanning mechanism segments the illumination process into discrete steps, covering the entire scalp area without requiring multiple simultaneous laser diodes or a rotating helmet structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotating helmet system with an automated scanning mechanism that directs a single laser beam across the treatment area. This substitution eliminates the need for complex rotating structures and multiple laser diodes, achieving full area coverage through controlled beam movement rather than mechanical rotation.
2Ease of operation
If a hand-held laser is used for treatment, then the device portability is improved, but the treatment duration and precision deteriorate due to user fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates an automated scanning mechanism that performs the treatment without requiring continuous manual manipulation. The system self-regulates the laser beam movement across the treatment area, eliminating user fatigue and maintaining consistent precision throughout the treatment duration. The device serves itself by automatically positioning and scanning the laser beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual hand-held operation with an automated scanning system that controls laser beam movement. This substitution eliminates the limitations of human arm fatigue and maintains treatment precision over extended periods, while the device remains portable and can be positioned at the treatment location.
3Device complexity
If fixed beam shape laser therapy is used, then the device simplicity is improved, but the adaptability to different treatment conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates variable beam shaping optics that allow the laser beam shape and size to be dynamically adjusted during treatment. The beam shaping mechanism enables changes in beam parameters without replacing the entire device, providing adaptability to different treatment conditions while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the ability to change laser beam parameters including shape, size, and scanning pattern to match different treatment requirements. The system allows adjustment of beam characteristics through optical elements and control software, enabling the same device to adapt to various treatment conditions without increasing fundamental device complexity.
4Duration of action of moving object
If continuous laser therapy is applied, then the treatment duration is improved, but the tissue damage risk increases due to thermal accumulation
Solution Approach 1:
The device implements pulsed laser delivery with periodic on-off cycles during the scanning process. The laser beam is activated in pulses rather than continuously, allowing thermal dissipation between pulses and preventing tissue overheating. This periodic action enables extended treatment duration while maintaining tissue safety through controlled thermal management.
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
Enables accurate and precise delivery of laser therapy with customizable beam patterns and intensities, allowing for enhanced treatment efficacy and increased treatment area coverage without the need for continuous therapist attendance.
Implementation Method 1
A stand-alone laser device provides low level laser therapy using one or more laser sources
Data Source
AI summary
A stand-alone laser device that provides low level laser therapy using one or more laser sources. The laser sources are attached to one or more arms which can be positioned to cause the laser light to impinge on a desired area of a patient's body. A scanning apparatus is attached to the arms which comprise structures that cooperate to cause an optical element to be able to simultaneously rotate about a central axis and move in a linear motion along that axis to achieve any desired scan pattern. Laser light of different pulse widths, different beam shapes and different scan patterns can be applied externally to a patient's body. In the preferred embodiment, red light having a wavelength of about 635 nm is used to stimulate hair growth on a patient's scalp.