Ultrasonic treatment controller including gel sensing circuit
US6261249A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 17, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 17, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02J2310/23
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A controller for driving an ultrasonic transducer is disclosed and includes a processor, responsive to a feedback signal, for generating control signals to an output driver which is responsive to the control signals, to cause the ultrasonic transducer to generate ultrasound having a power level corresponding to the control signal. The controller is preferably attached to a sensing circuit to determine the amount of ultrasound conductive gel associated with the ultrasonic transducer, and for generating the feedback signal therefrom. The controller includes data logging capabilities to record treatment data and prevent unnecessary extended treatment. The controller creates an environment for safer ultrasonic self-treatment by patients. The microprocessor used in the controller can be used to warn of a low battery condition or insufficient amount of ultrasound conducting gel. It can limit the usage of the transducer to prevent over treatment by comparing use data with acceptable limits and disabling the transducer if the limits have been exceeded. The device is contemplated to be portable for ease of transport by patients.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.