Wearable Light Therapy Optical Rods with Periodic Laser Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current light therapy devices, such as those using LEDs and laser diodes, often require skilled training for operation and have limitations in providing continuous or periodic light therapy applications, especially for wearable and portable use.
Innovation Solution
A wearable light therapy apparatus featuring a substantially solid light tube that transmits and scatters light, mounted in a soft resilient foam pad with an adhesive outer layer for attachment, and a control system that activates a class II, III, or IV laser at predetermined intervals for enhanced therapeutic benefit without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a wearable light therapy apparatus is designed for portability and ease of use, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to provide continuous periodic light therapy throughout 24 hours is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is programmed to automatically activate the laser light source at predetermined intervals throughout the day, providing periodic light therapy applications without requiring continuous user intervention. This enables the apparatus to deliver therapeutic benefits over extended periods while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to automatically manage its own operation, with the control system autonomously activating and deactivating the laser according to pre-programmed schedules. This self-service capability allows the device to provide continuous periodic therapy without requiring skilled operation or constant user attention.
2Reliability
If advanced laser therapy functionality is provided, then therapeutic effectiveness is improved, but skilled training for operation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically manages all aspects of laser operation including activation, deactivation, and timing of therapy sessions. This automation eliminates the need for skilled operation by users while maintaining reliable and effective therapeutic delivery through pre-programmed protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is pre-configured with predetermined therapy schedules and parameters before use. This preliminary setup allows the device to deliver effective laser therapy without requiring users to have specialized knowledge or training in laser operation or therapy protocols.
3Device complexity
If a single laser light source is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide multiple wavelengths is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The laser light source is designed with adjustable parameters that allow it to dynamically change its output characteristics, including wavelength and power levels. This dynamic capability enables a single laser source to provide multiple wavelengths and adapt to different therapeutic requirements without increasing device complexity.
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 continuous and periodic light therapy applications over 24 hours, maximizing therapeutic benefits with adjustable duty cycles and wavelengths, suitable for various body parts, including wearable forms like belts and pads, without the need for skilled operation.
Implementation Method 1
A light guide includes a substantially solid light tube capable of transmitting light from a first end to an opposite second end
Implementation Method 2
scattering light laterally between the first and second ends
Implementation Method 3
An adhesive outer layer or an adhesive surface formed on an outermost surface of the foam pad can be used to attach the pad to a use site as well as providing increased reflectivity of light generated by the light guide back through the pad
Data Source
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AI summary
Optical rods which transmit light exteriorly of their length are coupled to one or more lasers at ends. The optical rods are mounted on various carriers or as part of an optical bandage to provide therapeutic light to a portion of a human body. The lasers may be activated at various times in a 24-hour period, while the optical rods are worn by a user.