Thermal pattern generator for pain relief
US4860748A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 1988 |
| Grant date | Aug 29, 1989 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 23, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2007/0298
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An array of Peltier-effect thermoelectric tiles are controlled by a microprocessor so as to produce a repeatable series of temperature patterns or sequences on the skin adjacent to the area of pain. The series can be modified by selecting between one and m different pre-programmed thermal patterns or sequences by the appropriate setting of a m-toggle switch bank. The hot intensity, cold intensity and time delay between sequences can also be selected. The period between temperature changes is greater than one minute. A variety of different pain soothing sequences can be generated including checkerboard patterns, hot and cold waves, alternating left and right side temperature changes, etc.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.