IL314932B2

IL314932B2 - A Modular Skin Treatment Device and Kit

Info

Publication number: IL314932B2
Application number: IL314932A
Authority: IL
Original assignee: El Global Trade Ltd
Priority date: 2024-08-12
Filing date: 2024-08-12
Publication date: 2026-05-01
Also published as: IL314932B1; IL314932A; WO2026038209A1

Description

A MODULAR SKIN TREATMENT DEVICE AND KIT TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD The present disclosure generally relates to a modular skin treatment kit in which one or more interchangeable tips are provided for inducing various effects on the treated skin.

BACKGROUND WO2011067761A1 to Eckhouse et al. discloses "An apparatus enabling a casual user in a residential set-up to perform himself almost every skin treatment procedure by using a variety of modules that may be inserted into an infrastructure frame. The apparatus presents a docking station and an applicator. The applicator simultaneously receives only two types of skin treatment modules, these may be replaced after use for modules providing a different type of skin treatment. Such skin treatment modules like epilator, shaver, exfoliation or abrasive module, suction head, and massage head apply a mechanical action to the skin. Ultrasound module applies ultrasound waves to the skin. Intense pulsed light and RF apply electromagnetic radiation to the skin. A combination of these modules may be used to provide a variety of skin treatments such as hair removal, skin rejuvenation, skin exfoliation, acne treatment, circumference reduction, and other skin treatments".

GENERAL DESCRIPTION According to an aspect of some embodiments there is provided a skin treatment kit, comprising: a base device comprising: a hand-held body comprising an RF energy generator and a controller; a base device tip configured at a distal end of the body, the tip comprising at least one energy conducting element for transferring energy generated by the generator to the skin, the energy having at least one first energy profile; and one or more interchangeable tips, each configured to be removably mounted on the base device tip and conductively engage the base device tip; each interchangeable tip comprising an applicator suitable to be placed in contact or near-contact with the skin for transferring energy having at least one second energy profile, different than the first energy profile. In some embodiments, the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip comprises two spaced apart electrodes. In some embodiments, the applicator of the interchangeable tip is configured to conductively engage, at least indirectly, the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip comprises conductive circuitry which includes at least two electrodes that are spaced apart from each other a similar distance as said two spaced apart electrodes of the base device tip. In some embodiments, the first and second energy profiles differ from each other by one or more of: the type of energy being transferred; frequency; power; pulse length; density, spatial distribution. In some embodiments, the applicator of the interchangeable tip comprises a contact area with the skin which is different in shape and/or size than a contact area of the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip with the skin. In some embodiments, the applicator of the interchangeable tip and the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip have different geometrical structures. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip comprises identifying circuitry and the controller is configured to identify, according to the identifying circuitry, which interchangeable tip out of multiple interchangeable tips has been mounted onto the base device tip. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to implement an operation protocol suitable for the identified interchangeable tip. In some embodiments, the operation protocol defines one or both of: parameters of the energy to be generated by the RF energy generator; device functionality properties. In some embodiments, the device functionality properties include modifying operation of a user interface of the device. In some embodiments, the user interface is configured as a plurality of actuation buttons on the hand-held body of the device, and wherein the controller is configured to selectively receive input from at least one of the plurality of actuation buttons based on the operation protocol implemented by the controller. In some embodiments, the identifying circuitry comprises a resistor having a specified resistance value or range. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip is magnetically attractable and retainable to the base device. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip comprises a cap shaped housing with the applicator being located at distal, externally facing surface of the housing; the housing defining an inner volume in which at least a portion of the base device tip is received. In some embodiments, one or more springs are configured at a proximal end of the housing for resiliently mounting the interchangeable tip on the base device.

In some embodiments, the one or more interchangeable tips include one or more of: a tip for fractional RF treatment; a tip for TENS treatment; a tip for light based treatment. In some embodiments, the kit comprises all three interchangeable tips. In some embodiments, one or more of the following applies: (a) The applicator of the tip for fractional RF treatment comprises a planar surface having multiple electrodes arranged as a matrix; (b) The applicator of the tip for the TENS treatment comprises a rounded surface having multiple protrusion shaped electrodes; (c) The applicator of the tip for light based treatment comprises a planar light emitting surface. In some embodiments, the at least one energy conducting element of the base device is configured at distal end of a moveable arm, and wherein the base device further comprises a motion controller and a motor for actuating movement of the arm; wherein the controller is configured to disenable said movement when the controller identifies that an interchangeable tip had been mounted on the base device tip. In some embodiments, the at least one first energy profile is configured to induce at least one first treatment effect and the at least one second energy profile is configured to induce at least one second treatment effect different from the first treatment effect.

In some embodiments, wherein the base device is configured to deliver, via the two spaced electrodes, continuous, bipolar RF energy. In some embodiments, each of the electrodes comprises a temperature sensor suitable for sensing a temperature of the skin.

According to an aspect of some embodiments there is provide a method of operation a skin treatment device usable with a plurality of interchangeable tips, comprising: providing a base device comprising: a hand-held body comprising an RF energy generator and a controller; a base device tip configured at a distal end of the body, the base device tip comprising at least one energy conducting element for transferring energy generated by the generator to the skin; transferring, via the at least one energy conducting element, RF energy having at least one first energy profile; providing one or more interchangeable tips, each tip comprising an applicator suitable to contact the skin, each tip configured to conductively engage the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip; upon the interchangeable tip being removably mounted onto the base device tip, transferring, via the applicator, energy having at least one second energy profile, different than the first energy profile. According to an aspect of some embodiments there is provided a skin treatment kit, comprising: a base device comprising: a hand-held body comprising an energy generator, and a controller; a base device tip located at a distal end of the body and configured for applying energy generated by the generator to the skin; a plurality of interchangeable tips, each interchangeable tip configured to be removably mounted onto the base device tip, each interchangeable tip comprising a resistor having a specified electrical resistance value or range, wherein the controller of the base device is configured to identify, based on the specified electrical resistance, which of the plurality of interchangeable tips has been mounted onto the base device tip, and to implement an operation profile suitable for the identified interchangeable tip.

In some embodiments, the operation profile includes energy parameters according to which the energy generator is operated; and device functionality properties. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip is removably attached and retained to the base device via magnetic attraction. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip includes at least a pair of magnets and the resistor is positioned intermediate the magnets such that upon mounting of the tip on the base device, an electrical circuit is established, enabling the controller to identify the electrical resistance value or range of the resistor. According to an aspect of some embodiments there is provided a skin treatment device, comprising: a base device comprising: a hand-held body comprising an RF energy generator; a base device tip configured at a distal end of the body, the tip comprising at least one electrode for transferring RF energy to the skin; an interchangeable tip configured to be mounted onto the base device tip; the interchangeable tip comprising circuitry which converts the generated RF energy to light-based energy. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip conductively engages the at least one electrode. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) which are energized by the circuitry. In some embodiments, the circuitry comprises a bridge rectifier for converting AC to DC.

According to an aspect of some embodiments there is provide an interchangeable tip for use with a base device comprising at least one energy conducting element suitable to deliver RF energy to the skin, the interchangeable tip comprising: a housing extending between proximal and distal ends, and comprising an opening at the proximal end; an applicator configured at the distal end and facing externally to the housing, for contacting the skin; the housing comprising: conductive circuitry for engaging the at least one energy conducting element of the base device and transferring energy to the applicator; and an inner volume located proximally to the conductive circuitry and ending at said opening, the inner empty volume being shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the at least one energy conducting element of the base device therein when the interchangeable tip is mounted on the base device. In some embodiments, the inner volume is circumferentially surrounded by walls of the housing, and wherein the opening leads to the inner volume. In some embodiments, the at least one energy conducting element comprises two or more electrodes and wherein the conductive circuitry comprises a corresponding two or more electrodes positioned to contact the two or more electrodes of the base device, respectively, when the interchangeable tip is mounted on the base device. According to an aspect of some embodiments there is provided a tip for mounting on an energy-generating device, for applying transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to the skin, the tip comprising: a dome-shaped housing; a plurality of dome-shaped protrusions extending from a surface of the housing, the dome shaped protrusions comprising electrically conductive material for delivering the transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to the skin.

In some embodiments, the plurality of dome-shaped protrusions include different sized protrusions which can be selectively brought into contact with the skin for treating different sized surface areas of the skin. In some embodiments, the plurality of dome-shaped protrusions are spaced apart from each other such that pivoting of the dome shaped housing selectively positions only a part of the plurality of protrusions in contact with the skin.

An aspect of some embodiments relates to a modular skin treatment device and kit in which an interchangeable treatment tip can be mounted directly onto an existing treatment tip of a hand-held base device, for applying energy having an energy profile which is different than that applied by the base device tip. The energy profile of the interchangeable tip can differ in one or more of: energy type, frequency, duration, power, density, distribution (e.g. spatial distribution), and/or other parameters. In some embodiments, energy is generated only at the base device, and is modified at the interchangeable tip, for example by circuitry and/or by a structure of the tip (e.g. by use of an applicator having a different shape than that of the base device tip). In some embodiments, the energy generated and delivered by the base device is continuous RF energy, and interchangeable tips are provided for delivering one or more of: fractional RF, TENS, or light-based energy (LED) to treat the skin.

In some embodiments, the base device tip is integrally formed with the base device body, for example as a unitary body, and the interchangeable tip can be placed directly on top of the base device tip. Generally, the interchangeable tip includes conductive means that engage at least one energy conducting element (e.g. an electrode) of the base device tip, for transferring the energy to the applicator of the interchangeable tip. In some cases, electrodes configured internally within a housing of the interchangeable tip are positioned to be placed in contact with corresponding electrodes of the base device tip, when the interchangeable tip is mounted thereon.

In some embodiments, the base device (e.g. at a base device controller) is configured to identify which type of interchangeable tip had been mounted thereon. This can be achieved, for example, using an identifier incorporated in the interchangeable tip, such as a resistor which has a specified resistance that is automatically recognized by the controller of the base device. Once the tip type is identified, the controller is configured to implement a suitable operation protocol, which defines, for example, energy parameters according to which the generator is operated, and/or device functionality properties, for example, enabling a pulse control button of the device to be activated; disenabling movement of the base device tip electrodes; and/or other functionality properties.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip is removably attached to the base device (tip), for example via magnetic attraction. In a specific example, the resistor which facilitates the identification of the interchangeable tip by the controller forms a part of a electrical circuit which is established when magnetic means of the interchangeable tip engage magnetic means of the base device. (As referred to herein, magnetic means can include magnets and/or magnetically attracted materials, e.g. metals, for example in the form of plates, protrusion, discs or other suitable form).

Other removable attachment or quick release mechanisms for removably mounting the interchangeable tip on the base device tip are also contemplated, for example interference fit couplings, snap fit mechanisms, screw-in mechanisms, click-type mechanisms, or other.

A potential advantage of an arrangement in which an interchangeable tip is mountable directly onto an existing base device tip may include simplifying use of the device, allowing the device to always be in a "ready to use" configuration, preventing exposure of connectors and/or circuitry which may exposed if no base device tip existed permanently on the base device body (thus potentially reducing breakage or damage), facilitating attachment of the interchangeable tip which can be performed in a "plug and play" manner, with minimal setup and without needing to rotationally align the tip. Another potential advantage of an arrangement as described is that most or all of the energy generated at the base device can be transmitted to the interchangeable tip and then applied through the applicator to the skin, with no or low energy loss.

An aspect of some embodiments relates to modifying RF energy generated by a base device into light-based energy, emitted by an interchangeable tip that is mounted onto the base device. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip includes circuitry (e.g. a diode bridge) which converts AC to DC for energizing one or more LEDs of the interchangeable tip. In such arrangement, the base device can be used for applying RF to treat the skin, and when the interchangeable tip is mounted thereon, light can be emitted towards the skin to provide a different type of treatment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIGs. 1A-D show components of a skin treatment kit comprising a plurality of interchangeable tips, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method of using a skin treatment kit comprising a plurality of interchangeable tips, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a base device and an interchangeable tip of a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIGs. 4A-B are a perspective view of a capped base device of the skin treatment kit (FIG.4A) and a cross-section view of the base device (FIG. 4B), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 5is a top view of the base device tip, in which RF electrodes are visible, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIGs. 6A-C are various views of a fractional RF interchangeable treatment tip for use in a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIGs. 7A-C are various views of a TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) interchangeable treatment tip for use in a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; FIGs. 8A-D are various views of a LED interchangeable treatment tip for use in a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a skin treatment device or kit in which RF energy can be converted into light-based energy, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the disclosure. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units and/or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the disclosure. FIGs. 1A-D show components of a skin treatment kit comprising a plurality of interchangeable tips, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The kit is generally intended for personal use and enables a user to apply onto their body areas (such as the face, abdomen, legs, or other body area) a selected skin treatment. The kit can also be used at a clinic (e.g. by a cosmetician, esthetician, dermatologist or other) for treating the skin of a subject.

According to some embodiments, kit 101 comprises a base device, shown in FIG. 1A, and one or more interchangeable tips, shown in FIGs. 1B-D, each tip intended for treating the skin in a different manner, as further detailed below.

The base device, according to some embodiments, comprises a hand-held body 111, which, in this example, has a cylindrical shape which extends longitudinally between a proximal end 113 and a distal end 115. A base device tip 117 is located at the distal end 115 of the body, and comprises at least one energy conducting element which transfers energy generated at the base device body. In the shown example, the base device tip comprises two distally extending arms 119, 121 ending with corresponding electrodes 123, 125, which form, in this example, the energy conducting elements. In some embodiments, the energy generated by the base device comprises RF (radio frequency) energy, which is then transferred by the electrodes, for example as continuous, bipolar RF energy, to the skin. The base device tip is integral with the base device body and, in some embodiments, can be formed as a single unit with the body (i.e. the base device tip forms a direct distal extension of the body).

The base device can be used by itself, without mounting any of the interchangeable tips thereon. In such use, the electrodes 123, 125 of the base device tip are brought into electrically conductive contact with the skin. The user can then move the electrodes on the surface of the skin by holding onto the body 111 and gliding the device on the desired area intended for treatment. In some cases, arms 119, 121 are configured to move, for example in massaging type movements.

Referring now to the interchangeable tips, generally, each tip can be mounted directly onto the base device tip, for example placed manually like a cap over the existing base device tip. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip conductively engages the energy conducting element of the base device tip (for example, via electrically conductive elements (e.g. electrodes), cables, wiring, or other). The interchangeable tip includes an applicator which, when placed in contact or near-contact (e.g. in close proximity) with the skin, transfers energy thereto. Applicators of multiple interchangeable tips can differ from each other by their structure, for example by one or more of size, dimension, shape and/or number of elements which are intended to be brought into an interface with the skin.

The profile of the energy delivered by each of the interchangeable tips can differ from the energy delivered by the base device tip. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip is configured to deliver an energy type which is different than the RF energy delivered by the base device tip, for example, the interchangeable tip can be configured to deliver light-based energy (e.g. LED, IPL, laser, infrared); plasma energy; ultrasound energy; or other energy types. In some embodiments, the energy delivered by the interchangeable tip is still RF energy, yet differs from the RF energy delivered by the base device tip in one or more of: frequency, power, phase, pulse length, energy density, energy distribution, or other parameters. The different energy profile is obtained, in some embodiments, by modification of one or more parameters of the RF energy generated at the base device, and/or by a different structure of the applicator of the interchangeable tip, and/or using dedicated energy-modifying circuitry which the interchangeable tip may include, and is further described below.

In the example kit shown, three interchangeable tips are illustrated: FIG. 1B illustrates a tip suitable for applying fractional RF to the skin; FIG. 1C illustrates a tip suitable for applying TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation); FIG. 1D illustrates a tip suitable for applying LED light to the skin.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method of using a skin treatment kit comprising a plurality of interchangeable tips, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

At 201, a user decides on the type of treatment to be performed using the device. The user can be the treated subject themselves, or a treating cosmetician, dermatologist, or other. The type of treatment can be selected according to desired effects on the skin, skin characteristics of the treated subject, skin condition, general characteristics of the subject (age, gender, etc).

For example, continuous RF (e.g. as delivered by the base device) can be selected for the purpose of, for example: stimulating collagen production, tightening the skin, and/or reducing wrinkle; fractional RF (e.g. as delivered by one of the interchangeable tips) can be selected for the purpose of, for example, improving skin texture, reducing scars, and/or tightening the skin by creating controlled micro-injuries; TENS (e.g. as delivered by one of the interchangeable tips) can be selected for the purpose of, for example, providing pain relief and/or enhancing wound healing and reducing inflammation; LED light (e.g. as delivered by one of the interchangeable tips) can be selected for the purpose of, for example, reducing acne, improving skin tone, and/or promoting collagen production.

At 203, based on the type of treatment to be performed, a suitable interchangeable tip is selected, or, at 204, the existing base device tip is maintained for carrying out the treatment.

At 205, in the situation in which an interchangeable tip was selected, the interchangeable tip is mounted onto the base device tip. The interchangeable tip can be mounted directly onto the base device tip. In some embodiments, the mounting is assisted by a structure of the base device tip and/or the interchangeable tip, for example by respective circumferential protrusions and recesses and/or other interference fit type couplings. In some embodiments, magnetic materials incorporated in the interchangeable tip and the base device (body and/or tip) assist in orientating and/or aligning and/or retaining the interchangeable tip to the base device. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip can be configured for screwing onto the base device, snap-fitting onto the base device, or otherwise being removably secured to the base device. Mechanical connectors, clamps and/or locks may also be used.

At 207, the base device, for example at a base device controller, identifies whether an interchangeable tip has been mounted, and if mounted, recognizes the type of tip; then, according to the type of interchangeable tip , the controller implements a suitable operation protocol. Similarly, at 208, if the base device identifies that no tip was mounted, a suitable operation protocol is implemented.

The operation protocol, in some embodiments, defines energy parameters (according to which the device RF generator operates, for example, energy frequency, power, pulse length, duration) , and/or device functionality properties, for example, enabling or disenabling certain user controls; setting different safety thresholds (e.g. safety temperature ranges); setting different activation duration thresholds, setting power consumption ranges or thresholds; and/or other settings which are associated with the selected type of interchangeable tip (or with operation of the base device tip, in case an interchangeable tip was not mounted).

At 209, the tip (interchangeable tip or existing base device tip) is placed in contact or in close proximity to the skin to apply the treatment. In some embodiments, the user is provided with a preferred manner of operating each type of tip, for example, for some tips it may be desirable to move the tip across the skin, while for others to hold the tip in place; for some to press the tip against the skin, while for others to lightly hold the tip adjacent the skin; etc.

At 211, following treatment, if an interchangeable tip had been mounted, it can be removed from the base device and optionally replaced by a different interchangeable tip. Removal can be performed, in some embodiments, by manually pulling the tip in a distal direction, away from the base device. Optionally, pulling is performed against a magnetic attraction which retains the tip to the base device. Additionally or alternatively, a release mechanism (e.g a push button) is provided.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a base device and an interchangeable tip of a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the base device 301 comprises, such as within a housing of the base device, an RF energy generator 303; a controller 305, for controlling the RF generator and other device functions; a memory 307, on which operation protocols suitable for each of the interchangeable tips and the existing base device tip can be stored; and power supply 309, for example a battery (optionally, rechargeable) and/or a connection to external power supply. The base device further includes, at its tip 311, one or more energy conducting elements 313 such as electrodes for delivering the energy generated by the generator 303. In some embodiments, in which the energy conducting element(s) are configured for movement, e.g. for massaging movement, a motion controller 315 and a motor 317 for driving movement of the energy conducting element(s) are provided.

In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip 319 comprises, such as within and/or on a housing of the tip, conductive circuitry 320 (such as electrodes, wiring, cables or the like) for transferring the energy from the energy conducting element(s) of the base device tip to an applicator 321 located at a distal end of the interchangeable tip, when the interchangeable tip is mounted on the base device tip. The interchangeable tip further includes, in some embodiments, identifying circuitry 323 which the device controller 3is configured to recognize, for determining which of a plurality of different interchangeable tips had been mounted. In some cases, the identifying circuitry comprises a resistor having a specified electrical resistance, and once recognized by the controller (e.g. upon turning the base device on, after the interchangeable tip had been mounted thereon), the controller implements an operation protocol suitable for the identified tip type. When implementing a suitable operation protocol, the controller can instruct the RF generator to generate signals at predetermined parameters (e.g. frequency, power, pulse length, duration,). Further, when implementing a suitable operation protocol, the controller can enable and/or disable certain device functions, for example, enable operation of only some of the user interface buttons; disable movement of the arms of the base device tip, when an interchangeable tip is mounted thereon; and as such.

It is noted that other types of identifiers may be used with the interchangeable tip instead of or in addition to a resistor, for example, RFID, optical identifiers, barcodes, mechanical elements such as a switch, and/or other suitable identifiers.

Optionally, the interchangeable tip further comprises circuitry 325 for modifying the type of energy so as to deliver to the skin energy of a different type than the energy delivered by the base device tip. For example, the energy modifying circuitry can modify RF energy to light-based energy, as further detailed below.

In some embodiments, a housing of the interchangeable tip is shaped to define an empty inner volume 322, in which at least a part of the energy conducting element(s) of the base device are received. The inner volume is located, for example, proximally to the conductive circuitry, so that the conductive circuitry can contact the energy conducting element(s) when they are at least partially received within the inner volume. The housing of the interchangeable tip can be generally cylindrical, having an opening at its proximal end which leads into the inner volume.

FIGs. 4A-B are a perspective view of a capped base device of the skin treatment kit (FIG.4A) and a cross-section view of the base device (FIG. 4B), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

The base device body 111 is generally shaped and sized to be held by a user’s hand, comprising, in this example, an elongate, generally cylindrical housing 401 extending between the proximal end 113 and the distal end 115 of the body.

A removable cap 402 is mounted at a distal end of the body, for covering the distally extending arms (119, 121, shown in FIG. 4B) of the base device tip when the device is not in use. In some embodiments, the cap is configured to be magnetically attracted to the housing of the base device body, for example by magnetic element(s) being incorporated in the cap and/or the housing of the body.

In some embodiments, the housing comprises an external cover or layer (e.g. in the form of a sleeve) which is made of an electrically insulating and/or heat insulating material, such as rubber, plastic, silicon and/or other suitable materials. The cover can be formed of a non-slip material and/or include non-slip texture (e.g. bumps or protrusions), to facilitate holding and moving the device across the skin. In some cases, the cover is also water and/or moisture proof.

In some embodiments, the device comprises a user interface, for example in the form of one or more control buttons 403 (e.g. push buttons as shown, or dials, switches, knobs, etc.) and/or a screen 405, located on an externally facing surface of the housing.

In some embodiments, the device comprises one more indicators, for example visual and/or audible and/or tactical (e.g. vibrations), for indicating a current device status to a user. For example, indicators (such as light indicators, e.g. LEDS on the housing) can be configured to indicate whether the device is on/off, whether contact with the skin is obtained, which type of interchangeable treatment head is currently connected (if at all), whether the device is connected to an external user device (e.g. connected to a user’s cell phone, such as via Bluetooth), whether massaging movement of the arms of the base device tip is currently activated, and/or other indications.

The device can further include one or more connectors, such as a connector 407 for electrically charging the device (e.g. a USB type or other suitable connector), a connector for connecting the device to an external power source, or others.

As further shown in FIG. 4B, each of the distally extending arms 119, 1comprises, in some embodiments, a temperature sensor 409, 411 (e.g., a thermistor) respectively located at the skin-contacting surface of the electrode (123, 125, shown for example in FIG. 1A). In use, the temperature sensor is configured to measure the temperature of the skin being contacted by the electrode. Optionally, the temperature sensors can be used for sensing whether contact with the skin was established.

In some embodiments, when an interchangeable tip is mounted, the temperature sensors can be utilized for detecting an inner temperature of the tip (i.e. the temperature inside the tip housing) and optionally prevent overheating.

Further shown in FIG. 4B are a motor assembly 421 which is provided in some embodiments for enabling movement of the arms; a movement mechanism 423 which transfers the motor torque into arm movement; and an RF generator 425.

FIG. 5is a top view of a base device tip, in which RF electrodes are visible, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, as shown, when the base device is uncapped, the two electrodes 123, 125 as well as the temperature sensors 409, 411 can be visible from a top view.

In some embodiments, as shown, the two electrodes are laterally spaced from one another, for example by a distance D of between 0.5 cm-2 cm, e.g as measured between the electrode lengthwise centers, in which the temperature sensors are located. In some embodiments, distance D is selected so that when arms 119, 121 are moved, for example in circular, massaging movements, a penetration level of the RF energy delivered by the electrodes into the skin can vary. Optionally, base gel is applied to the skin, smoothing the movement of the arms across the skin.

Therefore when the arms are configured for movement, distance D is variable, and can change over time. In some embodiments, the arms can be stopped (e.g. when turning the device off) at any position, so that the distance D can vary between one placement of an interchangeable tip and another.

In some embodiments, magnetic element(s) are disposed in and/or on the base device, for magnetically engaging the device cap and the interchangeable tips. In the shown example, four magnetic elements 501 are disposed, as pairs, in diametrically opposing positions of the base device circumference.. Optionally, the magnetic elements of the base device comprise metals which can be magnetically attracted to magnets in the interchangeable tip or in the cap.

In some embodiments, in addition to magnetically attracting the cap and the interchangeable tip(s), each pair of magnetic elements is configured to form an electrical circuit with a resistor located in the housing of the interchangeable tip, so that upon connection, the resistance value of the resistor can be recognized by the controller for identifying which tip type was connected, based on its resistance value, as explained above.

FIGs. 6A-C are various views of a fractional RF interchangeable treatment tip for use in a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 6A shows an isometric top view, FIG. 6B shows a bottom view, and FIG. 6C shows a longitudinal cross section view of the tip.

Fraction RF tip 601 comprises, in some embodiments, a planar, flat applicator 603, for example formed as a matrix of multiple electrodes 605 arranged in a grid-like pattern. Optionally, the multiple electrodes are arranged on a PCB board.

In some embodiments, the spatial distribution of the electrodes in applicator 603 is such that a distance between adjacent electrodes is, for example, not longer than 5 mm, mm, 2 mm or intermediate or shorter distance. A dense arrangement of the electrodes, as shown, may be advantageous for producing micro-injures or small, close zones of thermal damage in the skin. In an example, the number of electrodes of applicator 603 is between 16-100 electrodes, such as 25 electrodes, 64 electrodes, 81 electrodes or intermediate, larger or smaller number.

In some embodiments, tip 601 comprises, inside its housing 609, conductive circuitry for delivering the energy generated by the base device to the applicator 603. In the example shown, the conductive circuitry comprises a set of flexible spring electrodes 607, each extending to contact, directly or indirectly, one of the electrodes of the base device tip (not shown). In a situation where an electrode 607 does not engage the electrode of the base device tip directly and/or does not engage the applicator of the interchangeable tip directly, wiring 611 is provided. In some embodiments, the electrodes 607 are located such that a distance D1 between the electrodes corresponds to (optionally, is similar to) distance D shown above with respect to the electrodes of the base device tip. In some embodiments, the surface area of electrodes 607 is large enough so that they can contact the base device tip electrodes at any spaced apart position of the base device tip electrodes (for example, if the base device tip arms were moving and then stopped at a certain spacing from each other, distance D may vary).

As can be further observed, housing 609 defines an empty inner volume 608 located proximally to the flexible spring electrodes 607. In this inner volume, at least a distal portion of the electrodes of the base device tip can be received.

In some embodiments, housing 609 includes recesses , for example, diametrically opposing recesses 613. In some cases, a spring element 615 extends proximally into the recess. A magnet 616 is connected proximally to the spring, for engaging, directly or indirectly, magnetic elements of the base device. The spring element 615 (e.g. a coil spring) can potentially facilitate attachment and/or removal of the interchangeable tip to and from the base device tip, for example by allowing at least some freedom of movement for the magnet within the recess. When the interchangeable tip is mounted on the base device, the spring element is compressed and presses the magnet against the base device.

In some embodiments, when the base device recognizes that the fractional RF interchangeable tip had been mounted thereon, the controller of the base device sets a suitable operation protocol, which, in some embodiments, involves one or more of the following: modifying the continuous RF energy, commonly delivered by the base device, into pulsed RF (optionally, the frequency of the signal is maintained); modifying the device functionality to adapt to pulsed delivery, for example by enabling a user interface push button to be active, for manually controlling activation of the pulses; adjusting device timings, such as standby entry timings; adjusting contact requirements with the skin; adjusting light indicators (e.g. LEDs on the housing); disabling movement of the arms of the base device tip; and/or other settings.

FIGs. 7A-C are various views of a TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) interchangeable treatment tip for use in a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 7A shows a side view, FIG. 7B shows a partially transparent isometric view, in which the base device tip is also partially visible; and FIG. 7C shows a longitudinal cross section view of the tip.

TENS tip 701 comprises, in some embodiments, a housing comprised of a rounded, optionally convex, and in this example dome shaped distal portion 703, and a narrowing, proximally extending neck portion 706. As further shown, a plurality of rounded, convex, and optionally dome shaped protrusions 705 are mounted on the dome shaped distal portion 703. In an example, as shown, two parallel rows, each comprising of three (optionally different sized) protrusions are shown. It is noted that other housing structures are contemplated and other protrusion structures suitable for forming multiple contact points with the skin are also contemplated.

A potential advantage of a tip configuration as described may include that a rounded or curved (e.g. dome shaped) housing can be easily pivoted on the skin surface to bring the protrusions into contact with the skin. Also, when different size protrusions are used, pivoting the housing can selectively bring protrusions of a required size to the skin, for example so as to treat a larger skin surface area or a smaller one, using the suitable protrusions.

In some embodiments, tip 701 comprises, inside its housing, for example inside neck portion 706, conductive circuitry for delivering the energy generated by the base device to the protrusions 705. In the example shown, the conductive circuitry comprises a set of flexible spring electrodes 707, each extending to contact, directly or indirectly, one of the electrodes 709 of the base device tip (shown in FIG. 7B). In a situation where an electrode 707 does not engage the electrode of the base device tip directly and/or does not engage the protrusions 705 directly, wiring 711 is provided.

In some embodiments, each row of protrusions (e.g. a row of the adjacent three protrusions) is short-circuited and connected (e.g via the spring electrode 707 and/or suitable wiring) to one of the two base device tip electrodes 709.

In some embodiments, when the base device recognizes that the TENS interchangeable tip had been mounted thereon, the controller of the base device sets a suitable operation protocol, which, in some embodiments, involves one or more of the following: modifying the continuous RF energy, commonly delivered by the base device, into pulsed energy, for example delivered in pulses of 100-150 microseconds, optionally with an interval of, for example, 100 - 1000 milliseconds between subsequent pulses; setting a longer time interval between pulses . In some cases, the interchangeable tip comprises circuitry which can limit the current level delivered by the applicator, such as t to ensure that the electrical current applied to the skin does not cause any unwanted thermal damage or overheating of the skin.

FIGs. 8A-D are various views of a LED interchangeable treatment tip for use in a skin treatment kit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 8A shows an isometric top view, FIG. 8B shows a bottom view, FIG. 8C shows a partial bottom view, and FIG.8D shows a longitudinal cross section view of the tip.

LED tip 801 comprises, in some embodiments, a planar, flat applicator 803, which emits light towards the skin. In some embodiments, tip 801 comprises, inside its housing 809, conductive circuitry for transferring the energy generated by the base device, as well as energy modifying circuitry which modifies the RF energy into light-based energy, such as LED. FIGs. 8B-C are partial bottom views of the LED tip. In FIG. 8B, a set of flexible spring electrodes 807 which are configured to respectively contact the base device tip electrodes are shown. These electrodes, as well as any optional wiring, constitute the conductive circuitry. In FIG. 8C, electrodes 807 are removed for showing the underlying circuitry, which consists of a bridge rectifier comprising multiple diodes 810 for converting the AC signal into DC signal. The bridge rectifier is in turn connected to one or more light emitting diode (LEDs) which can be activated when energized by the base device. This circuitry constitutes the energy-modifying circuitry of the tip. It is noted that different types (colors) of LEDs can be used, for example, green, red, blue, yellow or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the interchangeable tip can include circuitry for modifying the current level, for example to adjust the current to match different LED types. As can be further observed in FIG. 8C, a resistor 811 is positioned intermediate two magnets 813; when the LED tip is mounted on the base device tip, the device controller is configured to identify that the LED interchangeable tip was connected, based on the resistance value of the resistor. Magnets 813 can further serve to magnetically attract the interchangeable tip to the base device, for example as describe above.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a skin treatment device or kit in which RF energy can be converted into light-based energy, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

As schematically shown, a base device 901 is configured for generating RF energy and optionally delivering it to the skin, e.g. via suitable applicators. An interchangeable tip 903 is configured to be mounted onto the base device, for example onto existing energy conducting element(s) (not shown) of the base device tip, for the purpose of applying a different treatment to the skin in which light is emitted in close proximity to the skin.

The interchangeable tip 903 comprises, according to some embodiments, conductive circuitry 905, for example one or more electrodes, wiring, etc. which can conductively engage the energy conducting element(s) of the base device; circuitry 907 for converting AC to DC, for example comprising a bridge rectifier; and one or more light emitting elements such as LEDs 909, electrically connected to circuitry 907. In operation, the RF energy generated at the base device is conducted to the interchangeable tip in which it is modified into light-based energy, which is then emitted towards the treated skin 911. In some embodiments, by controlling the RF energy parameters, such as power, an intensity of the light emitted by the LEDs can be effected.

Claims

CLAIM S :

1. A skin treatment kit, comprising: a base device comprising: a hand-held body comprising an RF energy generator and a controller; a base device tip configured at a distal end of the body, the tip comprising at least one RF energy conducting element for transferring RF energy generated by the generator to the skin, the RF energy having at least one first energy profile; and one or more interchangeable tips, each configured to be removably mounted on the base device tip and conductively engage the base device tip for conduction of the RF energy from the base device tip to the interchangeable tip; each interchangeable tip comprising an applicator suitable to be placed in contact or near-contact with the skin for transferring energy having at least one second energy profile, different than the first energy profile.

2. The kit according to claim 1, wherein the at least one RF energy conducting element of the base device tip comprises two spaced apart electrodes.

3. The kit according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the applicator of the interchangeable tip is configured to conductively engage, at least indirectly, the at least one RF energy conducting element of the base device tip.

4. The kit according to claim 2, wherein the interchangeable tip comprises conductive circuitry which includes at least two electrodes that are spaced apart from each other a similar distance as said two spaced apart electrodes of the base device tip.

5. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second energy profiles differ from each other by one or more of: the type of energy being transferred; frequency; power; pulse length; density, spatial distribution.

6. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the applicator of the interchangeable tip comprises a contact area with the skin which is different in one or both of shape and size than a contact area of the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip with the skin.

7. The kit according to claim 6, wherein the applicator of the interchangeable tip and the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip have different geometrical structures.

8. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interchangeable tip comprises identifying circuitry and the controller is configured to identify, according to the identifying circuitry, which interchangeable tip out of multiple interchangeable tips has been mounted onto the base device tip.

9. The kit according to claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to implement an operation protocol suitable for the identified interchangeable tip.

10. The kit according to claim 9, wherein the operation protocol defines one or both of: parameters of the RF energy to be generated by the RF energy generator; device functionality properties.

11. The kit according to claim 10, wherein the device functionality properties include modifying operation of a user interface of the device.

12. The kit according to claim 11, wherein the user interface is configured as a plurality of actuation buttons on the hand-held body of the device, and wherein the controller is configured to selectively receive input from at least one of the plurality of actuation buttons based on the operation protocol implemented by the controller.

13. The kit according to claim 7, wherein the identifying circuitry comprises a resistor having a specified resistance value or range.

14. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interchangeable tip is magnetically attractable and retainable to the base device.

15. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the interchangeable tip comprises a cap shaped housing with the applicator being located at distal, externally facing surface of the housing; the housing defining an inner volume in which at least a portion of the base device tip is received.

16. The kit according to claim 15, wherein one or more springs are configured at a proximal end of the housing for resiliently mounting the interchangeable tip on the base device.

17. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more interchangeable tips include one or more of: a tip for fractional RF treatment; a tip for TENS treatment; a tip for light based treatment.

18. The kit according to claim 17, wherein the kit comprises all three interchangeable tips.

19. The kit according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein one or more of the following applies: (a) The applicator of the tip for fractional RF treatment comprises a planar surface having multiple electrodes arranged as a matrix; (b) The applicator of the tip for the TENS treatment comprises a rounded surface having multiple protrusion shaped electrodes; (c) The applicator of the tip for light based treatment comprises a planar light emitting surface.

20. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one RF energy conducting element of the base device is configured at distal end of a moveable arm, and wherein the base device further comprises a motion controller and a motor for actuating movement of the arm; wherein the controller is configured to disenable said movement when the controller identifies that an interchangeable tip had been mounted on the base device tip.

21. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first energy profile is configured to induce at least one first treatment effect and the at least one second energy profile is configured to induce at least one second treatment effect different from the first treatment effect.

22. The kit according to claim 2 or any one of the preceding claims when dependent on claim 2, wherein the base device is configured to deliver, via the two spaced electrodes, continuous, bipolar RF energy.

23. The kit according to claim 22, wherein each of the electrodes comprises a temperature sensor suitable for sensing a temperature of the skin.

24. A cosmetic method involving operating of a skin treatment device usable with a plurality of interchangeable tips, wherein said operating comprises: providing a base device comprising: a hand-held body comprising an RF energy generator and a controller; a base device tip configured at a distal end of the body, the base device tip comprising at least one RF energy conducting element for transferring RF energy generated by the generator to the skin; transferring, via the at least one energy conducting element, RF energy having at least one first energy profile; providing one or more interchangeable tips, each tip comprising an applicator suitable to contact the skin, each tip configured to conductively engage the at least one energy conducting element of the base device tip for conduction of the RF energy from the base device tip to the interchangeable tip; upon the interchangeable tip being removably mounted onto the base device tip, transferring, via the applicator, energy having at least one second energy profile, different than the first energy profile.