Thermotherapy application and control system
US9545286B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 5, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jan 17, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 5, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2007/0247
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus for applying thermotherapy to a part of the human or animal body comprising an applicator having a flexible enclosure in which thermal energy transfer fluid can circulate, a connector for connecting the applicator to a control system, an interface layer for providing a thermally conductive interface between the flexible enclosure and a treatment site and, an electrically conductive supporting layer for supporting the interface layer and capable of being energized by an electrical signal from the control system to improve the thermal conductivity of the interface layer. The apparatus also includes a valve unit for connecting the applicator to a control system, a heat exchanger for cooling a thermal energy transfer fluid and a control system for controlling the application of thermotherapy. The apparatus permits manipulation and control of the molecules of the interface layer and a thermal energy transfer fluid to improve the thermal energy transfer efficiency between the applicator and a treatment site.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.