EP4580744A1 - Dispositifs de photothérapie pour le traitement de troubles dermatologiques du cuir chevelu - Google Patents

Dispositifs de photothérapie pour le traitement de troubles dermatologiques du cuir chevelu

Info

Publication number
EP4580744A1
EP4580744A1 EP23773085.8A EP23773085A EP4580744A1 EP 4580744 A1 EP4580744 A1 EP 4580744A1 EP 23773085 A EP23773085 A EP 23773085A EP 4580744 A1 EP4580744 A1 EP 4580744A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
light
certain embodiments
fpcb
hair growth
treatment area
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP23773085.8A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
F. Neal Hunter
Nathan Stasko
James Michael Lay
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Know Bio LLC
Original Assignee
Know Bio LLC
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Know Bio LLC filed Critical Know Bio LLC
Publication of EP4580744A1 publication Critical patent/EP4580744A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N5/0613—Apparatus adapted for a specific treatment
    • A61N5/062—Photodynamic therapy, i.e. excitation of an agent
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/30—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds
    • A61K8/49—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds containing heterocyclic compounds
    • A61K8/494—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds containing heterocyclic compounds with more than one nitrogen as the only hetero atom
    • A61K8/4953—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds containing heterocyclic compounds with more than one nitrogen as the only hetero atom containing pyrimidine ring derivatives, e.g. minoxidil
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/30—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds
    • A61K8/64—Proteins; Peptides; Derivatives or degradation products thereof
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/30—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic compounds
    • A61K8/67—Vitamins
    • A61K8/671—Vitamin A; Derivatives thereof, e.g. ester of vitamin A acid, ester of retinol, retinol, retinal
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/72—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing organic macromolecular compounds
    • A61K8/73—Polysaccharides
    • A61K8/735—Mucopolysaccharides, e.g. hyaluronic acid; Derivatives thereof
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61K—PREPARATIONS FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL OR TOILETRY PURPOSES
    • A61K8/00—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations
    • A61K8/18—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition
    • A61K8/96—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof of undetermined constitution
    • A61K8/98—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof of undetermined constitution of animal origin
    • A61K8/981—Cosmetics or similar toiletry preparations characterised by the composition containing materials, or derivatives thereof of undetermined constitution of animal origin of mammals or bird
    • A61K8/983—Blood, e.g. plasma
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N5/0613—Apparatus adapted for a specific treatment
    • A61N5/0616—Skin treatment other than tanning
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N5/0613—Apparatus adapted for a specific treatment
    • A61N5/0616—Skin treatment other than tanning
    • A61N5/0617—Hair treatment
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61Q—SPECIFIC USE OF COSMETICS OR SIMILAR TOILETRY PREPARATIONS
    • A61Q7/00—Preparations for affecting hair growth
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0635—Radiation therapy using light characterised by the body area to be irradiated
    • A61N2005/0643—Applicators, probes irradiating specific body areas in close proximity
    • A61N2005/0644—Handheld applicators
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0635—Radiation therapy using light characterised by the body area to be irradiated
    • A61N2005/0643—Applicators, probes irradiating specific body areas in close proximity
    • A61N2005/0645—Applicators worn by the patient
    • A61N2005/0647—Applicators worn by the patient the applicator adapted to be worn on the head
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/065—Light sources therefor
    • A61N2005/0651—Diodes
    • A61N2005/0652—Arrays of diodes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
    • A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
    • A61N5/06—Radiation therapy using light
    • A61N2005/0658—Radiation therapy using light characterised by the wavelength of light used
    • A61N2005/0662—Visible light

Definitions

  • This disclosure relates to devices and methods for phototherapeutic treatment of topical dermatological disorders of the scalp, such as androgenetic alopecia, acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, and other conditions.
  • phototherapy relates to the therapeutic use of light.
  • various light therapies e.g., including low level light therapy (LLLT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT)
  • LLLT low level light therapy
  • PDT photodynamic therapy
  • various health related medical benefits including, but not limited to: treating skin or tissue inflammation; promoting tissue or skin healing or rejuvenation; enhancing wound healing; pain management; reducing wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, varicose veins, and spider veins; enhancing mood; treating microbial infections; treating hyperbilirubinemia; and treating various oncological and non-oncological diseases or disorders.
  • Various mechanisms by which phototherapy has been suggested to provide therapeutic benefits include: increasing circulation (e.g., by increasing formation of new capillaries); stimulating the production of collagen; stimulating the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP); enhancing porphyrin production; reducing excitability of nervous system tissues; stimulating fibroblast activity; increasing phagocytosis; inducing thermal effects; stimulating tissue granulation and connective tissue projections; reducing inflammation; and stimulating acetylcholine release.
  • Phototherapy has also been suggested to stimulate cells to generate nitric oxide.
  • Various biological functions attributed to nitric oxide include roles as signaling messenger, cytotoxin, antiapoptotic agent, antioxidant, and regulator of microcirculation.
  • Nitric oxide is recognized to relax vascular smooth muscles, dilate blood vessels, inhibit aggregation of platelets, and modulate T cell-mediate immune response.
  • Nitric oxide is produced by multiple cell types in skin, and is formed by the conversion of the amino acid L-arginine to L-citrulline and nitric oxide, mediated by the enzymatic action of nitric oxide synthases (NOSs).
  • NOSs nitric oxide synthases
  • One example of a commercially available phototherapy device intended for addressing hair loss is the iGrow® laser hair rejuvenation system (Apira Science, Boca Raton, Florida, US), which embodies a rigid helmet (similar in appearance to a bicycle helmet) utilizing a combination of red laser diodes and light emitting diodes operating at 655 nm ⁇ 5 nm.
  • Another example of a commercially available phototherapy device intended for addressing hair loss is the TheradomeTM LH80 Pro helmet (similar in appearance to a bicycle helmet), which utilizes 80 lasers with a peak wavelength of 678 nm (Theradome, Inc., Pleasanton, California, US).
  • the phototherapy device further includes a shaping member having a generally concave interior arranged to receive the FPCB.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a fabric covering arranged to cover the FPCB.
  • the FPCB is arranged to accommodate outward expansion and inward contraction to permit the plurality of standoffs to contact the scalp of the patient.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a fabric cap positioned proximate to a distal surface of the FPCB, wherein the fabric cap defines an aperture configured to receive an electronics housing containing at least a portion of the driver circuitry.
  • the phototherapy device further includes an energy storage device electrically coupled to the driver circuitry.
  • the energy storage device comprises a battery, and the battery is retained by a battery holder coupled to the electronics housing.
  • the at least one light emitting device consists of a non-coherent light emitting device. In certain embodiments, the at least one light emitting device provides a fluence of at least 1 joule per square centimeter when energized to emit light. In certain embodiments, the at least one light emitting device comprises a first array of light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a first peak wavelength and a second array of light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a second peak wavelength, wherein the second peak wavelength differs from the first peak wavelength by at least 20 nm.
  • the first peak wavelength and the second peak wavelength are selected from one of the following combinations (a) to (f): (a) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 615 nm to 635 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 650 nm to 670 nm; (b) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 520 nm to 540 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 650 nm to 670 nm; (c) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 410 nm to 430 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 620 nm to 640 nm; (d) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 410 nm to 430 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 650 nm to 670 nm; (e) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 410 nm to 430 nm
  • the at least one light emitting device comprises a first array of light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a first peak wavelength and a second array of light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a second peak wavelength, and the second peak wavelength differs from the first peak wavelength by at least 50 nm.
  • the first array of light emitting devices provides a spectral output with a first peak wavelength value and a first full width at half maximum value, wherein the first peak wavelength value minus one half of the first full width at half maximum value is greater than 400 nm; and the second array of light emitting devices provides a spectral output with a second peak wavelength value and a second full width at half maximum value, wherein the second peak wavelength value minus one half of the second full width at half maximum value is greater than 450 nm.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a proximity sensor arranged to sense a condition indicative of placement of the phototherapy device proximate to the scalp of the patient, wherein at least one of initiation, termination, or modification of operation of the at least one light emitting device is responsive to an output signal of the proximity sensor.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a temperature sensor arranged to sense a temperature condition on or proximate to a portion of the phototherapy device, wherein at least one of initiation of operation, deviation of operation, or termination of operation of the at least one light emitting device is responsive to an output signal of the temperature sensor.
  • the phototherapy device further includes (a) a user- perceptible visible signaling element arranged to generate a visible signal, and/or (b) a user-perceptible audible signaling element arranged to generate an audible signal, wherein the visible signal and/or the audible signal is indicative of operating status of the phototherapy device, charging status of the phototherapy device, or count of operating cycles of the phototherapy device.
  • the plurality of standoffs is integrated with the at least one light-transmissive layer. In certain embodiments, the plurality of standoffs is attached to the at least one light-transmissive layer.
  • the phototherapy device is embodied in a wearable cap arranged to be worn on a head of a patient, wherein an outermost surface of the wearable cap comprises the fabric covering.
  • a distance from a proximal end of at least some standoffs of the plurality of standoffs to the proximal surface of the FPCB exceeds a thickness of the at least one light-transmissive layer.
  • the plurality of standoffs is positioned between the FPCB and the at least one light- transmissive layer.
  • the at least one light-transmissive layer comprises a flexible lenticular lens.
  • the disclosure relates to a phototherapy device for delivering light emissions to a scalp of a patient.
  • the phototherapy device includes a flexible substrate including a proximal surface supporting at least one array of light emitting devices, and a light-transmissive layer configured to transmit at least some light emissions generated by the at least one array of light emitting devices.
  • the device also includes a plurality of standoffs positioned between the flexible substrate and the scalp of the patient.
  • the device further includes an energy storage element, driver circuitry arranged in electrical communication with the energy storage element and configured to drive the at least one array of light emitting devices, and a fabric covering arranged to cover the flexible substrate.
  • the flexible substrate and the fabric covering are arranged to accommodate outward expansion and inward contraction to permit the phototherapy device to be adjustably fitted to a head of the patient.
  • a distance from a proximal end of at least some standoffs of the plurality of standoffs to the proximal surface of the flexible substrate exceeds a thickness of the light-transmissive layer.
  • the plurality of standoffs is positioned between the flexible substrate and the light- transmissive layer.
  • the light-transmissive layer comprises a flexible lenticular lens.
  • the flexible substrate comprises a plurality of interconnected panels and comprises a plurality of bending regions defined in and between at least some panels of the plurality of interconnected panels.
  • the flexible substrate comprises a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB).
  • light emitting devices of the at least one array of light emitting devices comprises an emitter height
  • the phototherapy device comprises a plurality of standoffs disposed on the FPCB and/or the light-transmissive layer and being raised relative to the proximal surface, wherein at least some standoffs of the plurality of standoffs comprise a standoff height that exceeds the emitter height.
  • gaps are provided between portions of adjacent panels of the plurality of interconnected panels to accommodate outward expansion and inward contraction, and to enable dissipation of heat generated by the at least one array of light emitting devices.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a fabric cap defining an aperture configured to receive an electronics housing containing at least a portion of the driver circuitry.
  • the energy storage element comprises a battery, and the battery is fixed to the electronics housing or retained by a battery holder pivotally coupled to the electronics housing.
  • the phototherapy device upon detection of a specified number of uses of the phototherapy device, is configured to produce a disabling signal adapted to irreversibly disable the phototherapy device to prevent further operation of the phototherapy device.
  • the disabling signal comprises a voltage spike and/or a current spike.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a power supply circuit arranged to provide at least one conditioned power signal for use by a microcontroller of the phototherapy device and/or the at least one array of light emitting devices, wherein the disabling signal is sent to prevent further operation of the phototherapy device.
  • the phototherapy device further includes at least one fusible link arranged in electrical communication with the at least one array of light emitting devices, wherein the disabling signal is adapted to open the at least one fusible link to prevent current from being supplied to the at least one array of light emitting devices.
  • the at least one array of light emitting devices consists of non-coherent solid state light emitting devices. In certain embodiments, the at least one array of solid state light emitting devices provides a fluence of at least 1 joule per square centimeter. In certain embodiments, the at least one array of solid state light emitting devices comprises a first array of solid state light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a first peak wavelength and a second array of solid state light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a second peak wavelength, and the second peak wavelength differs from the first peak wavelength by at least 20 nm.
  • the first peak wavelength and the second peak wavelength are selected from one of the following combinations (a) to (f): (a) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 615 nm to 635 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 650 nm to 670 nm; (b) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 520 nm to 540 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 650 nm to 670 nm; (c) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 410 nm to 430 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 620 nm to 640 nm; (d) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 410 nm to 430 nm and the second peak wavelength is in a range of from 650 nm to 670 nm; (e) the first peak wavelength is in a range of from 410 nm to 430 nm
  • the at least one array of solid state light emitting devices comprises a first array of solid state light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a first peak wavelength and a second array of solid state light emitting devices arranged to generate light having a second peak wavelength, and the second peak wavelength differs from the first peak wavelength by at least 50 nm.
  • the first array of solid state light emitting devices provides a spectral output with a first peak wavelength value and a first full width at half maximum value, wherein the first peak wavelength value minus one half of the first full width at half maximum value is greater than 400 nm; and the second array of solid state light emitting devices provides a spectral output with a second peak wavelength value and a second full width at half maximum value, wherein the second peak wavelength value minus one half of the second full width at half maximum value is greater than 450 nm.
  • the phototherapy device further includes an optical sensor arranged to sense a condition indicative of placement of the phototherapy device proximate to the scalp of the patient, wherein initiation, termination, and/or modification of operation of the at least one array of light emitting devices is responsive to an output signal of the optical sensor.
  • the phototherapy device further includes a temperature sensor arranged to sense a temperature condition on or proximate to a portion of the phototherapy device, wherein initiation of operation, modification of operation, and/or termination of operation of the at least one array of light emitting devices is responsive to an output signal of the temperature sensor.
  • the flexible cap 212 may comprise one or more different fabrics or materials (e.g., cotton, open or closed cell polyethylene foam, polyester, rayon, etc.), and may be formed in a variety of different shapes and sizes depending on the head dimensions of the patient. In certain embodiments, the flexible cap 212 comprises a stretchable material to accommodate a variety of head sizes.
  • the flexible cap 212 includes a proximal surface 222 (e.g., which may variously be described as a bottom surface, lower surface, inner surface, inside surface, or surface proximate to the patient) and a distal surface 224 (e.g., which may variously be described as a top surface, upper surface, outer surface, outside surface, or surface further from the patient).
  • the flexible cap 212 forms a concavity 226 generally sized and shaped to receive an upper portion of a head of a patient, and may include a posterior extension 228 configured to cover the lower rear portion of a patient’s head (e.g., the nape, posterior hairline, occipital protuberance, and/or proximate thereto, etc.). Proximate to the posterior extension 228 (but towards the center of the flexible cap 212), the flexible cap 212 may include a flex arc (e.g., left flex arc 229a and right flex arc 229b), which allows the posterior extension 228 to more easily flex outward to accommodate varying head sizes.
  • a flex arc e.g., left flex arc 229a and right flex arc 229b
  • the flexible cap 212 may include a seal plug 232 removably attached to and covering an electronic connection port 230 at a top of the flexible cap 212.
  • the electronic connection port 230 is mechanically attached to an electronics receptacle 234 arranged at a top of the flexible cap 212.
  • the seal plug 232 covers and protects the electronic connection port 230 from damage when not in use.
  • the electronics receptacle 234 may be configured to receive an electronics subassembly 250 of a FPCB assembly 214 (show in Figures 1 1 A and 1 1 B and discussed in more detail below) to provide mechanical stability to the electronics subassembly 250.
  • the electronics receptacle 234 may be mechanically attached and secured to the electronics subassembly 250 to prevent relative movement therebetween.
  • the electronic connection port 230 (with the electronics receptacle 234) may provide mechanical and/or electronic connectivity between the electronics subassembly 250 with an electronic device (e.g., computer, smartphone, etc.) external to the phototherapy device 210 or electronic connector (e.g., power cord, USB cord, etc.) to receive electrical power and/or electronic data (e.g., operational parameters).
  • wireless communication may be provided between the phototherapy device 210 and an electronic device.
  • a battery operatively coupled to the FPCB assembly 214 may be inductively charged (e.g., wirelessly charged).
  • the FPCB assembly 214 includes a proximal surface 236 (which may variously be referred to as a bottom surface, lower surface, inner surface, inside surface, or surface proximate to the patient) and a distal surface 237 (which may variously be referred to as a top surface, upper surface, outer surface, outside surface, or surface further from the patient).
  • the FPCB assembly 214 forms a concavity 238 generally sized and shaped to receive at least an upper portion of the head of a patient, and may include a posterior extension 239 configured to cover the lower rear portion of a patient’s head (e.g., the nape, posterior hairline, occipital protuberance, and/or proximate thereto, etc.).
  • the proximal surface 236 includes at least one light emitting device (e.g., LED), and may include a plurality of LED devices, configured to generate emissions having one or more peak wavelengths (e.g., red LEDs and/or blue LEDs), as discussed in more detail above.
  • the flexible lenticular lens 216 includes a proximal surface 252 (e.g., inner surface, inside surface, surface proximate to the patient) and a distal surface 254 (e.g., outer surface, outside surface, surface further from the patient).
  • the flexible lenticular lens 216 forms a concavity 256 generally sized and shaped to the head of a patient, and may include a posterior extension 258 configured to cover the lower part of a back of a patient’s head (e.g., the nape, posterior hairline, occipital protuberance, and/or proximate thereto, etc.).
  • the flexible lenticular lens 216 may include a flex arc 259a, 259b, which allows the posterior extension 258 to more easily flex outward to accommodate varying head sizes.
  • the flexible lenticular lens 216 may be molded, may have a thickness of approximately 0.02 in. to 0.06 in. (e.g., approximately 0.033 in.), and may have a lens density in a range of from about 10 to about 80 lenses per inch, or from about 20 to about 60 lenses per inch, or from about 30 to about 50 lenses per inch, or about 40 lenses per inch (LPI), although other dimensions may be used.
  • a flexible lenticular lens 216 may include a padding recess 260 along a peripheral edge of the flexible lenticular lens 216 to receive the foam padding 220a, 220b (such that the foam padding 220a, 220b contacts the flexible lenticular lens proximal surface 252).
  • the padding recess 260 and the foam padding 220a, 220b may be generally complementary to each other in size and/or shape.
  • the padding recess 260 and foam padding 220a, 220b may be configured to extend along the entire peripheral edge of the flexible lenticular lens 216 or a portion thereof.
  • the foam padding 220a, 220b provides an additional layer of comfort and a compressible layer for an improved fit to the patient’s head.
  • the foam padding 220a, 220b may be removably attached to the flexible lenticular lens proximal surface 252 (e.g., by Velcro), such that the foam padding 220a, 220b may be washable and/or replaceable.
  • the FPCB assembly 214 is positioned between the flexible cap 212 and the flexible lenticular lens 216. More specifically, the FPCB assembly 214 is positioned within the flexible cap concavity 226 such that the FPCB assembly distal surface 237 is proximate to the flexible cap proximal surface 222.
  • the flexible lenticular lens 216 is positioned within the FPCB assembly concavity 238 such that the flexible lenticular lens distal surface 254 is positioned proximate the FPCB assembly proximal surface 236. In this manner, when the flexible cap 212, FPCB assembly 214, and flexible lenticular lens 216 are assembled together, the concavities and peripheral edges thereof are generally aligned with one another.
  • the flexible cap concavity 226, FPCB concavity 238, and flexible lenticular lens concavity 256 are all generally aligned with one another; the flexible cap posterior extension 228, the FPCB assembly posterior extension 239, and the flexible lenticular lens posterior extension 258 are all generally aligned with one another; and the flexible cap flex arc 229a, 229b and flexible lenticular lens flex arc 259 are generally aligned with one another.
  • a binding edge clip 221 (shown in Figure 13B) may be positioned along a peripheral edge of the flexible cap 212, FPCB assembly 214, and flexible lenticular lens 216 to secure them together (e.g., the binding edge clip 221 being inwardly biased).
  • the plurality of standoffs 218a, 218b may include top standoffs 218a positioned at or along a top of the flexible lenticular lens 216, and side standoffs 218b positioned at or along a side of the flexible lenticular lens 216.
  • Each standoff 218a, 218b includes a proximal end 262 and a distal end 264.
  • the standoffs 218a, 218b are positioned between the flexible lenticular lens 216 and the FPCB assembly 214.
  • the standoffs 218a, 218b may be attached to (e.g., by adhesive), or may be integrally formed with, the flexible lenticular lens 216 (e.g., by molding the standoffs 218a, 218b concurrently with the flexible lenticular lens 216).
  • the standoff proximal end 262 contacts (and extends from) the flexible lenticular lens distal surface 254, and the standoff distal end 264 may contact the FPCB assembly proximal surface 236, such that the distance between the FPCB assembly proximal surface 236 and the flexible lenticular lens distal surface 254 is not less than a height of the standoff 218a, 218b.
  • the height of the standoff 218a, 218b may be greater than a height of the LED (of a plurality of LEDs) to prevent the flexible lenticular lens distal surface 254 from contacting the LED (and/or any of the plurality of LEDs).
  • the standoffs 218a, 218b maintain a minimum distance between the flexible lenticular lens distal surface 254 and the FPCB assembly proximal surface 236, as discussed below in more detail.
  • Figures 1 1A-1 1 C are views of the FPCB assembly 214. More specifically, Figure 11 A is rear elevation view, Figure 1 1 B is a side cross sectional view, and Figure 1 1 C is an exploded view of the FPCB assembly 214.
  • the FPCB assembly 214 includes a panel subassembly 240 (e.g., multiple interconnected FPCB panels or elements) and an electronics subassembly 250.
  • the electronics subassembly 250 is attached to the panel subassembly 240 by a mount 266, which also houses electronic circuitry therein.
  • the mount 266 includes a plurality of attachments extending from a bottom surface thereof, with the plurality of attachments including tabs 268a, 268b, engagement prongs 270, screw posts 272, prong receptacles 274, and the like.
  • the mount 266 also includes an electronics port 275 extending therethrough.
  • the electronics port 275 may be embodied an electronics connector providing mechanical and electronic communication between an external electronics device or connector and the electronics subassembly 250 (explained in more detail below).
  • the electronics subassembly 250 also includes an O-ring 276 positioned around the electronics port 275 at a bottom surface of the mount 266.
  • the electronics subassembly 250 further includes a control printed circuit board (PCB) 278 which includes driver circuitry for controlling operation of the panel subassembly 240 (and the LEDs mounted thereto).
  • the control PCB 278 includes a plurality of attachments including screw apertures 280 and prong apertures 282.
  • the screw apertures 280 receive screws 284 therethrough, which extend into mount screw posts 272, thereby attaching the control PCB 278 to a bottom surface of the mount 266 (although any other suitable fastener or attachment means may be used).
  • the tabs 268b and/or a ridge 269 opposite thereto further secure the control PCB 278 to the mount 266 by preventing lateral movement of the control PCB 278 relative to the mount 266 (the tabs 268b may also be inserted into grooves or apertures in the panel subassembly 240).
  • the electronics port 275 is aligned with connector circuitry of the control PCB 278 and the flexible cap electronics receptacle 234 (shown in Figure 10E) to provide electronic and/or mechanical access of the PCB electronics connector to an external electronic device (e.g., computer, smartphone, etc.) or electronic connector (e.g., power cord, USB cord, etc.) to receive electrical power and/or electronic communications (e.g., instructions, software updates, operational parameters, operating data, and the like).
  • an external electronic device e.g., computer, smartphone, etc.
  • electronic connector e.g., power cord, USB cord, etc.
  • electrical power and/or electronic communications e.g., instructions, software updates, operational parameters, operating data, and the like.
  • the electronics subassembly 250 further includes a battery 286 attached to the bottom surface of the mount 266 by a battery attachment 288 (e.g., adhesive film, mechanical element, etc.).
  • a FPCB lock pad 290 is positioned on the FPCB assembly proximal surface 236 and aligned with a FPCB snap lock 292.
  • the FPCB snap lock 292 includes engagement prongs 294 (e.g., outwardly biased) that extend through slots 304 of the panel subassembly 240, through the control PCB prong apertures 282, and through the mount prong receptacles 274, thereby securing the panel subassembly 240, control PCB 278, and mount 266 to one another. Accordingly, the control PCB 278 and battery 286 are positioned adjacent to one another, and both contact (or are positioned proximate to) the FPCB assembly distal surface 237.
  • Figures 12A-12E illustrate the panel subassembly (also illustrated in Figures 1 1A-11 C. More specifically, Figure 12A is a bottom perspective view of the panel subassembly in a bent configuration, Figure 12B is a bottom plan view of the panel subassembly in the bent configuration, Figure 12C is a cross-sectional side view of the panel subassembly, Figure 12D is a top plan view of the panel subassembly in a flat and fully expanded configuration with bending regions illustrated, and Figure 12E is a bottom plan view of the panel subassembly in a flat and fully expanded configuration.
  • the panel subassembly 240 includes a plurality of interconnected FPCB panels that are able to bend and move (e.g., along reduced width regions or using hinge-like structurers) relative to one another to form varying dihedral angles.
  • the panel subassembly 240 includes a body 300 (e.g., one or more body panels) with a stiffener section 302 positioned between two through slots 304.
  • the through slots 304 receive the FPC snap lock engagement prongs 294 (shown in Figures 1 1 A-1 1 C and discussed above) and are aligned with the electronics subassembly control PCB prong apertures 282 and electronics subassembly mount prong receptacles 274, as explained above.
  • the body 300 includes multiple radially extending portions (e.g., a series of interconnected panels) positioned generally circumferentially around the peripheral edge of the body 300. More specifically, the body 300 includes a front extension 306, a rear extension 324 (extending opposite the front extension 306), a left extension 328a (positioned between and left of the front extension 306 and the rear extension 324), a right extension 328b (positioned between and right of the front extension 306 and the rear extension 324), a left front extension 332a (positioned between the front extension 306 and the left extension 328a), a left rear extension 338a (positioned between the rear extension 324 and the left extension 328a), a right front extension 332b (positioned between the front extension 306 and the right extension 328b), and a right rear extension 338b (positioned between the rear extension 324 and the right extension 328b).
  • Each extension may comprise one or more panels that are separated by bending regions to permit bending or other relative movement permitted therebetween (e.g., forming
  • the front extension 306 is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end, and a distal end thereof (opposite the proximal end) includes a stiffener section 308 and a capacitive touch active pad 322.
  • the stiffener section 308 is provided at distal surface 237 (e.g., top surface), and the capacitive touch active pad 322 is provided at a proximal surface 236 (e.g., bottom surface), with the stiffener section 308 and capacitive touch active pad 322 opposing but being aligned with one another.
  • the front extension 306 further includes a left flap 312a attached at a left side of the distal end of the front extension 306, and a right flap 312b attached at a right side of the distal end of the front extension 306.
  • a capacitive tab 316 is attached to the distal end of the front extension 306 by a neck 318.
  • the capacitive tab 316 includes a stiffener section 320 on the distal surface 237 and a signal guard 310 on the proximal surface 236, with the stiffener section 320 and the signal guard 310 being arranged opposite to but aligned with one another.
  • the capacitive tab 316 can bend outwardly by the neck 318 such that the capacitive tab stiffener section 320 and the front extension stiffener section 308 contact each other. In such a configuration, the capacitive tab stiffener section 320, signal guard 310, front extension stiffener section 308 and front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 are aligned with one another.
  • the capacitive tab 316 may bend inwardly by the neck 318.
  • the extension stiffener section 308 and the capacitive tab stiffener section 320 may be arranged along a proximal surface
  • the front extension 306 may include a signal guard at a distal surface
  • the capacitive tab 316 may include a capacitive touch active pad at a distal surface.
  • the rear extension 324 is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a left flap 326a and right flap 326b at a distal end.
  • the left extension 328a is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a forward flap 330a at a distal end.
  • the right extension 328b is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a forward flap 330b at a distal end.
  • the left front extension 332a is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a forward flap 334a and a rearward flap 336a at a distal end.
  • the left rear extension 338a is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a rearward flap 340a at a distal end.
  • the right front extension 332b is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a forward flap 334b and a rearward flap 336b at a distal end.
  • the right rear extension 338b is attached to the body 300 at a proximal end and includes a rearward flap 340b at a distal end.
  • the extensions and flaps may each include one or more panels and/or bending regions 352a, 352b. More specifically, as shown in Figure 12 D, the extensions and flaps may each include one or more horizontal bending regions 352a (e.g., bending transverse to a radius of the body 300). At least a portion of each extension may be connected to at least a portion of a respective flap by a vertical bending region 352b (bending along a radius of the body 300).
  • the bending regions 352a, 352b allow the panel subassembly 240 to conform to the shape of the patient’s head (e.g., the vertical bending regions 352b conform the panel subassembly 240 to the circumference of the patient’s head).
  • the flaps may attach to their respective extensions along an entire side of the flap or a portion thereof.
  • the panel subassembly 240 includes a plurality of keep-out areas 350a, 350b on the proximal surface 236 thereof.
  • the keep-out areas 350a, 350b generally align with (and are larger than) the distal ends 264 of the plurality of standoffs 218a, 218b to protect the circuitry of the panel subassembly 240, and to prevent standoffs 218a, 218b from contacting light emitters mounted to the panel assembly 240. More specifically, top keep out areas 350a align with and contact top standoffs 218a, and side keep-out areas 350b align with and contact side standoffs 218b.
  • the panel subassembly 240 may include an encapsulant layer.
  • Figures 12F-12H illustrate a capacitor. More specifically, Figure 12F is a cross-sectional view of a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) incorporating elements for fabricating a capacitor prior to folding of the FPCB (in the direction of curved arrows C, along fold line A-A) and adhesion of the capacitor elements.
  • FPCB flexible printed circuit board
  • Figure 12F illustrates a copper layer 305C arranged between a cover layer 305A and a carrier (e.g., polyimide) layer 305B of a FPCB 306 (which may be embodied in a front extension panel), with a capacitive touch active pad 322 and a signal guard 310 further mounted to the FPCB 306 (preferably over a first surface of the carrier layer 305B, and in electrical communication with traces formed by the copper layer 305A).
  • a front extension stiffener section 308 and a capacitive tab stiffener section 320 are provided along a second surface of the carrier layer 305B, proximate to the signal guard 310 and the capacitive touch active pad 322, respectively.
  • Adhesive (or double-sided adhesive tape) 325 is arranged along one or more of the stiffener sections 308, 320 to provide non-conductive adhesion therebetween when the FPCB is folded in the direction of curved arrow C along fold line A-A.
  • Figure 12G is a cross-sectional view of a capacitor 353 fabricated from the FPCB 306 and elements shown in Figure 12F, following folding of the FPCB 306 and adhesion between the stiffener sections (or spacer elements) 308, 320.
  • a portion of the FPCB 306 extending forward of the fold line A-A may embody a capacitive tab 316 that is continuous with the remainder of the FPCB 306.
  • the capacitive tab 316 may embody a second FPCB panel that is discontinuous relative to the FPCB 306.
  • the capacitor 353 shown in Figure 12G comprises the front extension 306 (which may be embodied in a front extension panel, first FPCB panel, first FPCB element, etc.), the front extension stiffener section 308 (e.g., first stiffener section), the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 (e.g., capacitive pad), the carrier layer 305B (which may be embodied in a capacitive tab 316 or capacitive tab panel, second FPCB panel, second FPCB element, etc.), the capacitive tab stiffener section 320 (e.g., the second stiffener section), the signal guard 310 (e.g., signal ground hatch), and an adhesive (or double-sided adhesive tape) 325 positioned between the front extension stiffener section 308 and the capacitive tab stiffener section 320.
  • the front extension stiffener section 308 e.g., first stiffener section
  • the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 e.g., capacitive pad
  • the front extension stiffener section 308, capacitive tab stiffener section 320, and adhesive (or double-sided adhesive tape) 325 provide non-conductive separation between the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 and the signal guard 310.
  • the carrier layer 305B e.g., 0.1 to 1.5 mm thick
  • front extension stiffener section 308 e.g., 0.25 to 2.5 mm thick
  • capacitive tab stiffener section 320 e.g., 0.25 to 2.5 mm thick
  • adhesive (or double-sided adhesive tape) 325 e.g., 0.01 to 0.25 mm
  • a distance e.g., predetermined distance, d in Equation 1 below
  • L is the length of the conductive elements
  • W is the width of the conductive elements
  • E r is the relative dielectric constant
  • d is the dielectric thickness between the conductive elements.
  • the length is about 3.0 cm
  • the width is about 2.0 cm
  • the thickness is about 0.75 to 1.00 mm. This provides a capacitance for the capacitor 353 of about 25 to 33 pF.
  • the signal guard 310 may have a lateral dimension (e.g., width) that exceeds lateral dimensions of the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 by 20% to 40%.
  • the first and second FPCB panels may comprise polyimide, and the first and second stiffener sections may have a dielectric constant between 2.5 and 5 (e.g., between 4 and 4.5)
  • the front extension stiffener section 308 may be twice as thick, such that a capacitive tab stiffener section 320 is not needed.
  • the stiffeners e.g., non-conductive spacers
  • the stiffeners may be any non-conductive material (e.g., foam, PCB, etc.), and may be attached to their respective FPCB element by a fastener or adhesive (e.g., glue, tape, etc.).
  • the adhesive 325 may be applied on at least a portion of the front extension stiffener section 308 and/or the capacitive tab stiffener section 320.
  • any type of adhesive 325 could be used (e.g., double-sided tape, glue, etc.), and other types of attachment could be used other than adhesive 325, such as a fastener (e.g., screw, nail, etc.). In such circumstances, the adhesive 325 could be omitted.
  • a fastener e.g., screw, nail, etc.
  • the capacitor 353 may be used as a proximity sensor (e.g., capacitive sensor), such that the phototherapy device 210 can determine whether the phototherapy device 210 is proximate to a patient’s forehead by a change in capacitance and/or voltage (e.g., due to interaction with an electric field proximate to a patient’s skin).
  • the patient’s skin can alter the capacitance (and resulting voltage) from a short distance away without requiring contact with the capacitor 353.
  • the panels of the panel subassembly 240 are very thin (e.g., about 0.10 mm or less). This thickness is generally too thin to provide appropriate capacitance values for a proximity sensor, since capacitance would be too high. Accordingly, folding the capacitive tab 316 aligns the signal guard 310 with the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322, and a minimum distance therebetween is maintained by the front extension stiffener section 308, capacitive tab stiffener section 320, and/or adhesive 325 which preferably embody dielectric materials. Thus, a larger distance is created between these two conductive plates (e.g., signal guard 310 and the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322), and the capacitance value is modified.
  • capacitance values may be further adjusted by adding material layers (e.g., double sided adhesive tape 325) between the two plates (e.g., signal guard 310 with the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322), with such added material preferably serving as a dielectric.
  • material layers e.g., double sided adhesive tape 325 between the two plates (e.g., signal guard 310 with the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322), with such added material preferably serving as a dielectric.
  • the capacitor 353 provides directional sensing functionality such that only the capacitance of the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 is altered by the proximity of skin thereto.
  • the signal guard 310 may be configured to be driven in polarity opposite from that of the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322, and the signal guard 310 may be larger in size than the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 to extend beyond the margins of the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322. This ensures that proximity of skin to the signal guard 310 does not change capacitance of the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322.
  • the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322 is configured to sense capacitance changes (due to skin proximity) that originate from inside the phototherapy device 210, and the signal guard 310 prevents the detection of a false proximity signal (e.g., from capacitance changes that originate from sources outside the phototherapy device 210). This prevents a patient touching the exterior (e.g., capacitive tab 316) of the phototherapy device 210 from triggering operation of the phototherapy device 210. The phototherapy device 210 will only be triggered from wearing the phototherapy device 210 (e.g., because the patient’s skin will modify capacitance of the capacitor 353).
  • the front extension signal guard 310 may be patterned (e.g., in a hatch, mesh, etc.) with copper to form a Faraday cage to insulate the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322, which may include a continuous (e.g., solid copper) conductive surface.
  • FIG. 12H shows a circuit 354 of the capacitor 353 (or proximity sensor).
  • the circuit 354 includes a capacitive touch controller 355 (e.g., microcontroller) which may be an integrated circuit (IC).
  • the circuit 354 may be connected to the front extension capacitive touch active pad 322, the signal guard 310, and a power circuit 356 (including a positive supply voltage and ground). Further, the circuit 354 may be connected to one or more data sources 357 (e.g., serial data line (SDA), serial clock line (SCL), etc.), and interrupt 358 (INT).
  • SDA serial data line
  • SCL serial clock line
  • INT interrupt 358
  • the motherboard may check for wireless (e.g., Bluetooth) signals and/or electrical connections, check the account (e.g., status), and/or enable operation of the phototherapy device 210.
  • the circuit 354 may remain continuously active and provide feedback to the controller, such that the interrupt 358 is triggered when the voltage and/or capacitance exceeds a predetermined value (e.g., between 12-50 pF), such as resulting from a change in capacitance of the capacitor 353.
  • a predetermined value e.g., between 12-50 pF
  • the sensitivity threshold may be adjusted via the capacitive touch controller 355.
  • Figures 13A and 13B illustrate a patient wearing and using the phototherapy device 210 of Figures 10A-10E. More specifically, Figure 13A is a front elevation view of a patient wearing the phototherapy device 210, and Figure 13B is a cross-sectional side view of the patient wearing the phototherapy device 210. As shown, the front of the phototherapy device 210 is positioned above the patient’s eyes, and the rear of the phototherapy device 210 (e.g., the posterior extensions) extends along the lower back of the head, such that a front bottom edge and a rear bottom edge of the phototherapy device 210 are at two different heights when in use.
  • the front of the phototherapy device 210 is positioned above the patient’s eyes
  • the rear of the phototherapy device 210 e.g., the posterior extensions
  • the phototherapy device 210 may increase the coverage area of the phototherapy device 210 to cover desired hair-producing areas of a scalp of the patient 360.
  • the flexible cap 212, FPCB assembly 214, and flexible lenticular lens 216 may be adjustable in size and shape (e.g., the circumference can vary) to accommodate various users.
  • an inner circumference may vary from 54 cm to 64 cm.
  • the LEDs of the phototherapy device 210 provide therapeutic light emissions to a scalp 362 of the patient 360. More specifically, the LEDs mounted on the FPCB assembly proximal surface 236 transmit light through the flexible lenticular lens 216, which defocuses the light emissions to increase the uniform distribution of light emissions across the patient’s scalp 362.
  • a flexible lenticular lens 216 is used in certain embodiments, other light-transmissive materials or layers including diffusers may be used.
  • the flexible lenticular lens 216 is preferably positioned a predetermined distance from the LEDs for optimal light emission distribution and performance (e.g., avoiding positioning the LEDs too far or too near from the flexible lenticular lens 216), and to maintain a safe distance between the patient’s scalp 362 and the LEDs (e.g., from the heat generated by the LEDs).
  • This distance (e.g., 3.5 mm between LEDs and flexible lenticular lens 216 in certain embodiments) is maintained by the plurality of standoffs 218a, 218b, where gravity naturally encourages the FPCB assembly 214 towards the flexible lenticular lens 216 and the plurality of standoffs 218a, 218b contact the FPCB assembly 214 to maintain a minimum distance therebetween (for LED protection, for optical optimization, and/or for thermal separation from a patient’s scalp).
  • the LEDs may provide one or more peak wavelengths (e.g., red light emission and/or blue light emission), such as about 620 nm to 660 nm and/or 660 nm to 670 nm, etc.
  • the plurality of LEDs may include LEDs producing peak wavelengths of about 420 nm and 620 nm, or 420 nm and 660 nm, or 420 nm, 625 nm, and 660 nm.
  • Figures 14A-14D are views of a package and a phototherapy device. More specifically, Figure 14A is an upper perspective view of a package containing a phototherapy device. Figure 14B is an exploded perspective view of the package and phototherapy device following removal of the top cover from the bottom lid (with the top cover being transparent for illustrative purposes). Figure 14C is an exploded view of the package with the phototherapy device of Figures 14A and 14B (with the top cover being transparent for illustrative purposes). Figure 14D is a side cross-sectional view of the packaged phototherapy device.
  • the packaged device 400 includes a top cover 402, a bottom lid 404, a charging base 406 therebetween, and an accessory box 408 positioned between the bottom lid 404 and the charging base 406, wherein a phototherapy device 410 is positioned on the charging base 406 between the charging base 406 and the top cover 402.
  • the top cover 402 may be provided in various shapes and sizes.
  • the top cover 402 may include a top wall 412 with sidewalls 416 extending downwardly from a perimeter thereof.
  • a sidewall may include a cord hole punch 418 to receive an electronic connector therethrough for connection with the phototherapy device 410.
  • the top cover 402 may include one or more positioning flaps 420 located proximate to (but a distance from) an opening of the top cover 402 to provide sufficient clearance to receive a portion of the bottom lid 404. The positioning flaps 420 help stabilize the phototherapy device 410 and prevent lateral movement thereof.
  • the top cover 402 may include an insert 422 having a bottom wall 424 and sidewalls 426 extending upwardly from a perimeter thereof.
  • the insert 422 includes a clearance hole 428 in an approximate center thereof to receive a portion of a top of the phototherapy device 410 therein.
  • the top cover insert 422 prevents lateral movement of the phototherapy device 410, and secures the phototherapy device 410 between the insert 422 and the charging base 406.
  • the bottom lid 404 may be provided in various shapes and sizes.
  • the bottom lid 404 may include a bottom wall 430 with sidewalls 432 extending upwardly from a perimeter thereof.
  • the bottom lid 404 may include an insert 434 having a bottom wall 436, exterior walls 438 along an outer perimeter thereof, and interior walls 440 along an interior perimeter thereof and defining an interior aperture 442 (extending through the bottom wall 436).
  • the insert exterior walls 438 may be taller than the bottom lid sidewalls 432, such that the insert exterior walls 438 contact the interior of the top cover sidewalls 416 (to frictionally secure the top cover 402 thereto and to prevent lateral movement therebetween).
  • the bottom lid insert interior walls 440 may receive the accessory box 408 therein (to frictionally secure the accessory box 408 thereto and to prevent lateral movement therebetween).
  • the accessory box 408 may include a headliner pack, USB cable, AC adaptor, etc.
  • the foundation 444 has a contoured top 452 (e.g., convex top) that generally conforms to the shape of the proximal surface of the phototherapy device 410, and the foundation 444 may include a lip 450 that generally conforms to the peripheral edge of the phototherapy device 410. Accordingly, the contoured top 452 and lip 450 of the charging base 406 stabilizes the phototherapy device 410 when placed thereon. Further, the contoured top 452 receives the accessory box 408 within an interior defined by the contoured top 452.
  • the charging base 406 may be used to hold the phototherapy device 410 when not in use and/or when charging, thereby supporting the phototherapy device 410 in a protected manner and preventing it from being distorted in shape. In certain embodiments, the charging base 406 may provide wireless inductive charging of the phototherapy device 410 through the contoured top 452 when the phototherapy device 410 is positioned thereon.
  • phototherapy devices for delivering light energy to a treatment area of a patient are described above. Such phototherapy devices may be provided alone or in an integrated fashion with other therapeutics for the treatment and/or prevention of hair loss. In this manner, the phototherapy devices described herein may be well suited to form parts of combination therapies in the treatment and/or prevention of hair loss.
  • Exemplary combination therapies include application of one or more hair growth agents along with impinging light on common treatment areas.
  • hair growth agents may be administered prior to light treatment and/or concurrently with light treatments.
  • hair growth agents may provide additive benefits to light treatments in certain embodiments.
  • hair growth agents and light treatments may provide synergistic benefits, thereby promoting a multiplier effect for enhanced treatment and/or prevention of hair loss.
  • hair growth agents in addition to light, may include platelet rich plasma, hyaluronic acid, minoxidil, amino acids such as arginine, finasteride, tretinoin, ketoconazole, or spironolactone and other substances associated with nitric oxide release. Delivery of such hair growth agents includes application by one or more of localized injections, topical applications, and/or systemic delivery via oral and/or intravenous delivery.
  • An optional third step 458, as indicated by the dashed lines in Figure 16A, may include administering a photosynthesizing agent or photoactivating agent to the treatment area before impinging the light on the treatment area.
  • the photosynthesizing agent may be applied concurrently with the hair growth agent or as an intermediate step between application of the hair growth agent of the first step 454 and the light treatment of the second step 456.
  • a time period or delay between the first step 454 and the second step 456 may be determined based on a type of hair growth agent applied to enhance effectiveness of the hair growth agent relative to the tissue.
  • a time delay of at least 5 minutes, or at least 10 minutes, or at least 15 minutes may allow sufficient time for certain hair growth agents, such as those applied topically to effectively engage with the tissue.
  • the second step 456 may be performed within a time window from the first step 454, such as within 5 hours, or within 1 hour, or within 30 mins.
  • light-emitting devices 464 such as LEDs
  • light-emitting devices 464 are generally illustrated in Figure 17 along the structure 462 in a position that directs light to the patient’s scalp.
  • Light from the light-emitting devices 464 may directly impinge the scalp or pass through one or more elements associated with the structure 462, such as the lens or lenticular lens 216 illustrated above for Figure 10E.
  • the phototherapy device 460 may further include applicator structures 466 that are configured to administer one or more hair growth agents to a surface of or within a surface of the scalp.
  • the applicator structures 466 may be arranged radially about the rolling structure 476.
  • One or more hair growth agents may be contained within the delivery device 472, such as within a reservoir of the rolling structure 476.
  • the delivery device 472 may be configured for rolling across a patient’s tissue to topically apply the hair growth agent for delivery of localized injections of the hair growth agent before light treatments are provided by a separate device.

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Abstract

La présente invention concerne des dispositifs de thérapie par lumière modulée pour le traitement de troubles dermatologiques du cuir chevelu. Un dispositif donné à titre d'exemple comprend une carte de circuit imprimé souple (FPCB) supportant au moins un dispositif émettant de la lumière ayant une hauteur d'émetteur. La FPCB comprend plusieurs panneaux interconnectés et des régions de flexion définies dans et entre au moins certains des panneaux interconnectés pour permettre la conception de la FPCB dans une forme concave pour recouvrir au moins une partie d'un sommet crânien du patient. Au moins une couche transmettant la lumière à proximité de la FPCB est configurée pour transmettre des émissions de lumière (par exemple, incohérente) générées par au moins un dispositif émettant de la lumière. Au moins une douille-entretoise autosertissable est configurée pour être disposée entre la FPCB et le cuir chevelu du patient, la ou les douilles-entretoises autosertissables comprenant une hauteur de douille-entretoise autosertissable qui dépasse la hauteur d'émetteur.
EP23773085.8A 2022-09-01 2023-08-23 Dispositifs de photothérapie pour le traitement de troubles dermatologiques du cuir chevelu Pending EP4580744A1 (fr)

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US202263374298P 2022-09-01 2022-09-01
PCT/US2023/072693 WO2024050258A1 (fr) 2022-09-01 2023-08-23 Dispositifs de photothérapie pour le traitement de troubles dermatologiques du cuir chevelu

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