U.S. patent application number 16/664072 was filed with the patent office on 2021-04-22 for treatment device including wireless interface and user application.
The applicant listed for this patent is TIVIC HEALTH SYSTEMS INC.. Invention is credited to JOHN CLAUDE, JENNIFER ERNST, BLAKE GURFEIN, CHRISTOPHER A. WIKLOF.
Application Number | 20210113836 16/664072 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005505155 |
Filed Date | 2021-04-22 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210113836 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
CLAUDE; JOHN ; et
al. |
April 22, 2021 |
TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING WIRELESS INTERFACE AND USER
APPLICATION
Abstract
A handheld sinus treatment device provides sinus relief
treatment to a user. The handheld sinus treatment device includes a
wireless receiver configured to receive wireless signals including
control data from a handheld personal electronic device. The user
positions a treatment electrode of the handheld sinus treatment
device at a treatment location on the user's face corresponding to
a sinus nerve node. The handheld sinus treatment device provides
electrical sinus treatment stimulation in accordance with the
control data.
Inventors: |
CLAUDE; JOHN; (REDWOOD CITY,
CA) ; WIKLOF; CHRISTOPHER A.; (EVERETT, WA) ;
ERNST; JENNIFER; (UNION CITY, CA) ; GURFEIN;
BLAKE; (OAKLAND, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TIVIC HEALTH SYSTEMS INC. |
MENLO PARK |
CA |
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20200164208 A1 |
May 28, 2020 |
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Family ID: |
1000005505155 |
Appl. No.: |
16/664072 |
Filed: |
October 25, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/US2018/051385 |
Sep 17, 2018 |
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16664072 |
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PCT/US2018/029029 |
Apr 24, 2018 |
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PCT/US2018/051385 |
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PCT/US2018/029030 |
Apr 24, 2018 |
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PCT/US2018/029029 |
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PCT/US2018/029032 |
Apr 24, 2018 |
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PCT/US2018/029030 |
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62559792 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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62491793 |
Apr 28, 2017 |
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62559792 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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62560120 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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62491793 |
Apr 28, 2017 |
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62559792 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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62560120 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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62491793 |
Apr 28, 2017 |
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62559792 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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62560120 |
Sep 18, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61N 1/025 20130101;
A61N 1/36031 20170801; A61N 1/0456 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61N 1/36 20060101
A61N001/36; A61N 1/04 20060101 A61N001/04; A61N 1/02 20060101
A61N001/02 |
Claims
1. A handheld sinus treatment device, comprising: a memory; a
current output circuit including a treatment electrode configured
to provide sinus relief treatment stimulation to a user; a wireless
receiver configured to receive wireless signals including control
data from a personal electronic device; and a microcontroller
operably coupled to the memory, the wireless receiver, and the
current output circuit and configured to receive the control data
from the wireless receiver, write the control data to the memory,
and cause the current output circuit to provide sinus relief
treatment stimulation to the user in accordance with the control
data.
2.-14. (canceled)
15. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 1, further
comprising one or more indicators coupled to the microcontroller
and configured to provide indications regarding one or more aspects
of sinus relief treatment.
16. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 15, wherein the
control data includes instructions controlling the one or more
indicators.
17. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 15, wherein the
one or more indicators includes one or more LEDs configured to
illuminate in accordance with the control data.
18. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 17, wherein the
one or more indicators includes a motor configured to generate
vibrations in accordance with the control data.
19.-20. (canceled)
21. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 1, further
comprising a wireless transceiver, the wireless transceiver
including the wireless receiver, and wherein the wireless
transceiver is configured to output wireless signals to the
personal electronic device.
22. (canceled)
23. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 1, wherein the
current output circuit includes a return electrode positioned to be
in contact with a hand of the user during treatment, wherein the
sinus relief treatment stimulation includes applying a stimulation
current between the treatment electrode and the return electrode by
applying a stimulation voltage.
24. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 23, wherein the
stimulation current flows between the treatment electrode and the
return electrode.
25. (canceled)
26. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 23, further
comprising alternating a direction of the stimulation current
during a treatment mode.
27. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 26, wherein the
stimulation current has a frequency less than 1000 Hz.
28. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 27, wherein the
stimulation current has a frequency between 1 Hz and 100 Hz.
29. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 23, wherein the
stimulation current has a magnitude less than 1000 .mu.A.
30. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 29, wherein the
stimulation current has a magnitude less than 600 .mu.A.
31. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 23, wherein the
stimulation voltage is an AC voltage.
32. The handheld sinus treatment device of claim 23, wherein the
stimulation voltage has a DC component of 0 V.
33. A method for operating a handheld sinus treatment device,
comprising: receiving, with a wireless receiver of a handheld sinus
treatment device, wireless signals including control data from a
personal electronic device; storing the control data in a memory of
the handheld sinus treatment device; and providing sinus relief
treatment to a user in accordance with the control data with a
current output circuit of the handheld sinus treatment device.
34.-35. (canceled)
36. The method of claim 33, wherein providing sinus relief
treatment to the user includes detecting a treatment location on a
face of the user by outputting a detection signal with the current
output circuit and providing treatment stimulation to the treatment
location with the current output circuit.
37. (canceled)
38. The method of claim 36, further comprising providing the
treatment stimulation to the treatment location for a duration in
accordance with the control data.
39. The method of claim 36, further comprising providing the
treatment stimulation with a strength in accordance with the
control data.
40. The method of claim 36, further comprising providing detecting
the treatment location with a sensitivity level in accordance with
the control data.
41. The method of claim 36, further comprising identifying the
treatment location based on an impedance between a treatment
electrode of the handheld sinus treatment device and a return
electrode of the handheld sinus treatment device, and identifying
the treatment location by comparing the impedance to a threshold
impedance identified in the control data.
42.-53. (canceled)
54. A method, comprising: providing, with a personal electronic
device, a graphical user interface configured to enable a user to
select parameters for controlling a handheld sinus treatment device
configured to provide sinus relief treatment stimulation to the
user; receiving, via the graphical user interface, input data
including parameters for operating the handheld sinus treatment
device; and transmitting wireless signals including control data
from the personal electronic device to the handheld sinus treatment
device in accordance with the input data, the control data
including instructions for operating the handheld sinus treatment
device.
55. (canceled)
56. The method of claim 54, wherein the graphical user interface
enables the user to select a training mode, and further comprising:
receiving input data from the user selecting the training mode;
operating the personal electronic device in the training mode in
response to receiving the input data from the user selecting the
training mode; and transmitting the wireless signals to the
handheld sinus treatment device instructing the handheld sinus
treatment device to enter the training mode.
57. The method of claim 56, further comprising receiving, in the
training mode, the wireless signals from the handheld sinus
treatment device including training data indicating that the
handheld sinus treatment device has identified a treatment location
on a face of the user.
58. The method of claim 57, further comprising: capturing an image
of the face of the user with the personal electronic device;
identifying the treatment location in the image based on a position
of the handheld sinus treatment device; and storing treatment
location data indicating the position of the treatment location on
the face of the user.
59. The method of claim 58, further comprising displaying a
treatment assistance image on a display of the personal electronic
device including a guidance indicator indicating the position of
the treatment location.
60. The method of claim 59, wherein the treatment assistance image
includes a live video stream of the face of the user with the
guidance indicator.
61. The method of claim 59, wherein the training data indicates
identification of multiple training locations on the face of the
user.
62. The method of claim 61, further comprising: capturing one or
more images of the face of the user with the personal electronic
device; and identifying the positions of the multiple treatment
locations in the one or more of the images based on the training
data.
63. The method of claim 62, further comprising displaying one or
more treatment assistance images on a display of the personal
electronic device including guidance indicators indicating the
position of the treatment location.
64. The method of claim 63, further comprising displaying the
guidance indicators with the one or more treatment assistance
images one at a time.
65. The method of claim 63, further comprising displaying multiple
of the guidance indicators simultaneously with the one or more
treatment assistance images.
66. The method of claim 64, wherein the control data includes
treatment stimulation duration data indicating a duration of the
treatment stimulation.
67. The method of claim 66, wherein the control data includes
stimulation length strength data indicating a strength of the
treatment stimulation.
68. The method of claim 66, wherein the control data includes
sensitivity level data indicating a sensitivity level for detecting
the treatment location.
69. The method of claim 54, wherein the personal electronic device
includes at least one of a mobile phone, a tablet, a laptop
computer, a desktop computer, a wearable electronic device, and a
smart watch.
70.-74. (canceled)
75. The method of claim 54, further comprising outputting
notifications from the personal electronic device prompting the
user to use the handheld sinus treatment device.
76. (canceled)
77. The method of claim 76, wherein the input data includes data
regarding symptoms experienced by the user.
78. The method of claim 77, wherein the data regarding the symptoms
of the user includes data regarding severity of symptoms and/or
data regarding frequency of symptoms.
79. (canceled)
80. The method of claim 76, further comprising generating the
instructions for operating the handheld sinus treatment device
based in part on the symptoms of the user.
81.-82. (canceled)
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a Continuation-in-Part
Application which claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
120 (pre-AIA) of co-pending International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/051385, entitled, "TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING WIRELESS
INTERFACE AND USER APPLICATION," filed Sep. 17, 2018 (docket number
3048-007-04). International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/051385 claims priority benefit from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/559,792, entitled "TREATMENT DEVICE
INCLUDING WIRELESS INTERFACE AND USER APPLICATION," filed Sep. 18,
2017 (docket number 3048-007-02), now expired.
[0002] The present application also is a Continuation-in-Part
Application which claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
120 (pre-AIA) of co-pending International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/029029, entitled "SINUS TREATMENT DEVICE WITH ADAPTIVE
CIRCUIT," filed Apr. 24, 2018 (docket number 3048-001-04).
International Patent Application No. PCT/US2018/029029 claims
priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/491,793, entitled "SINUS DEVICE WITH ADAPTIVE CIRCUIT," filed
Apr. 28, 2017 (docket number 3048-001-02), now expired.
International Patent Application No. PCT/US2018/029029 also claims
priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/559,792, entitled "TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING WIRELESS INTERFACE
AND USER APPLICATION," filed Sep. 18, 2017 (docket number
3048-007-02), now expired. International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/029029 also claims priority benefit from U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/560,120, entitled "ADAPTIVE
TRIGGER FOR A MICROCURRENT STIMULATION DEVICE," filed Sep. 18, 2017
(docket number 3048-031-02), now expired.
[0003] The present application also is a Continuation-in-Part
Application which claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
120 (pre-AIA) of co-pending International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/029030, entitled "SINUS TREATMENT DEVICE WITH ENHANCED
TIP," filed Apr. 24, 2018 (docket number 3048-004-04).
International Patent Application No. PCT/US2018/029030 claims
priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/491,793, entitled "SINUS DEVICE WITH ADAPTIVE CIRCUIT," filed
Apr. 28, 2017 (docket number 3048-001-02), now expired.
International Patent Application No. PCT/US2018/029030 also claims
priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
62/559,792, entitled "TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING WIRELESS INTERFACE
AND USER APPLICATION," filed Sep. 18, 2017 (docket number
3048-007-02), now expired. International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/029030 also claims priority benefit from U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 62/560,120, entitled "ADAPTIVE
TRIGGER FOR A MICROCURRENT STIMULATION DEVICE," filed Sep. 18, 2017
(docket number 3048-031-02), now expired.
[0004] The present application also is a Continuation-in-Part
Application which claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
120 (pre-AIA) of co-pending International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/029032, entitled "ADAPTIVE TRIGGER FOR A MICROCURRENT
STIMULATION DEVICE," filed Apr. 24, 2018 (docket number
3048-031-04). International Patent Application No.
PCT/US2018/029032 claims priority benefit from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 62/491,793, entitled "SINUS DEVICE WITH
ADAPTIVE CIRCUIT," filed Apr. 28, 2017 (docket number 3048-001-02),
now expired. International Patent Application No. PCT/US2018/029032
also claims priority benefit from U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/559,792, entitled "TREATMENT DEVICE INCLUDING
WIRELESS INTERFACE AND USER APPLICATION," filed Sep. 18, 2017
(docket number 3048-007-02), now expired. International Patent
Application No. PCT/US2018/029032 also claims priority benefit from
U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/560,120, entitled
"ADAPTIVE TRIGGER FOR A MICROCURRENT STIMULATION DEVICE," filed
Sep. 18, 2017 (docket number 3048-031-02), now expired.
[0005] Each of the foregoing applications, to the extent not
inconsistent with the disclosure herein, is incorporated by
reference.
SUMMARY
[0006] According to an embodiment, a handheld sinus treatment
device includes a memory, a current output circuit including a
treatment electrode configured to provide sinus relief treatment
stimulation to a user, a wireless receiver configured to receive
wireless signals including control data from a personal electronic
device, and a microcontroller operably coupled to the memory and
the wireless receiver. The microcontroller is configured to receive
the control data via the wireless receiver, write the control data
to the memory, and cause the current output circuit to provide
sinus relief treatment stimulation to the user in accordance with
the control data.
[0007] According to an embodiment, a method for operating a
handheld sinus treatment device includes receiving, with a wireless
receiver of a handheld sinus treatment device, wireless signals
including control data from a personal electronic device. The
method includes storing the control data in a memory of the
handheld sinus treatment device. The method includes providing
sinus relief treatment to a user in accordance with the control
data with a current output circuit of the handheld sinus treatment
device.
[0008] According to an embodiment, a method includes providing,
with a personal electronic device, a graphical user interface
configured to enable a user to select parameters for controlling a
handheld sinus treatment device configured to provide sinus relief
treatment stimulation to the user. The method includes receiving,
via the graphical user interface, input data including parameters
for operating the handheld sinus treatment device. The method
includes transmitting wireless signals including control data from
the personal electronic device to the handheld sinus treatment
device in accordance with the input data. The control data includes
instructions for operating the handheld sinus treatment device.
[0009] According to an embodiment, a system includes a personal
electronic device configured to output wireless signals including
control data for providing sinus relief treatment relief to a user.
The system includes a handheld sinus treatment device. The handheld
sinus treatment device includes a wireless receiver configured to
receive the wireless signals from the personal electronic device
and a current output circuit configured to provide sinus relief
treatment stimulation to a treatment location on a face of the
user.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a sinus treatment system,
according to an embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a handheld sinus treatment
device, according to an embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 2B is a top view of the handheld sinus treatment device
of FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 2C is a bottom view of the handheld sinus treatment
device of FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 2D is an illustration of a handheld sinus treatment
device providing sinus relief treatment to highlighted treatment
areas adjacent to sinuses of a user, according to an
embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a handheld sinus treatment
device, according to an embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 4 is an illustration of a personal electronic device
executing an aspect of a software application for controlling a
handheld sinus treatment device, according to an embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a personal electronic device
executing an aspect of a software application for controlling a
handheld sinus treatment device, according to an embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a personal electronic device
executing an aspect of a software application for controlling a
handheld sinus treatment device, according to an embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a graph of a treatment current vs time, according
to an embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a process for controlling a
handheld sinus treatment device with a personal electronic device,
according to an embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a process for operating a
handheld sinus treatment device, according to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] In the following detailed description, reference is made to
the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the
drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components,
unless context dictates otherwise. Other embodiments may be used
and/or other changes may be made without departing from the spirit
or scope of the disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a sinus treatment system 100,
according to an embodiment. The sinus treatment system 100 includes
a handheld sinus treatment device 102 and a personal electronic
device 104. Together, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 and
the personal electronic device 104 facilitate providing sinus
relief treatment to a user. The handheld sinus treatment device 102
provides sinus relief treatment stimulation to treatment locations
adjacent to sinuses of the user. The handheld sinus treatment
device 102 is configured to receive wireless signals including
control data from the personal electronic device 104. The control
data controls various operational parameters of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The user of the sinus treatment system 100
can access a sinus treatment software application executed by the
personal electronic device 104 in order to adjust various settings
or parameters of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 and to
control the activation of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
The personal electronic device 104 transmits the wireless signals
including the control data to the handheld sinus treatment device
102 in accordance with the selections and commands of the user. The
handheld sinus treatment device 102 receives the wireless signals
and operates to provide sinus relief treatment to the user in
accordance with the control data received from the personal
electronic device 104.
[0024] According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 is configured to provide sinus relief treatment to the
user by providing electrical sinus treatment stimulation to
treatment locations adjacent to the sinuses of the user. In a
detection mode, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 detects a
treatment location by outputting a detection signal to a treatment
electrode of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 as the user
glides the treatment electrode of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 over the skin adjacent to the sinuses of the user. The
handheld sinus treatment device 102 identifies the treatment
location based on the detection signal. When the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 has identified a treatment location, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 enters into a treatment mode.
In the treatment mode, the handheld sinus treatment device 102
provides sinus relief treatment stimulation to the treatment
location, thereby providing sinus relief to the user. The user can
operate the handheld sinus treatment device 102 to identify and
provide treatment to multiple treatment locations.
[0025] According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 includes a wireless receiver configured to receive the
wireless signals from the personal electronic device 104. The
wireless signals can control various parameters of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102, including activation and deactivation
of the handheld sinus treatment device 102, parameters of the
detection mode of the handheld sinus treatment device 102, and
parameters of the treatment mode of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102.
[0026] According to an embodiment, the user of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 can access a software application executed by
the personal electronic device 104 in order to adjust the settings
of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 and to otherwise control
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The software application
can enable the user to initiate a treatment session with the
handheld sinus treatment device 102, to stop the treatment session
with the handheld sinus treatment device 102, to adjust a
sensitivity threshold of the handheld sinus treatment device 102
during the detection mode of the handheld sinus treatment device
102, and to adjust the parameters of the sinus treatment
stimulation provided by the handheld sinus treatment device 102
during the treatment mode of the handheld sinus treatment device
102. The control data can control the manner in which the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 provides sinus relief treatment to the
user.
[0027] According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 includes a microcontroller and a memory. When the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 receives the wireless signals
including the control data from the personal electronic device 104
via the wireless receiver, the microcontroller processes the
wireless signals and writes the control data to the memory. The
microcontroller then controls the operation of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 in accordance with instructions stored in the
memory as received with the wireless signals.
[0028] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a handheld sinus treatment
device 102, according to an embodiment. The handheld sinus
treatment device 102 includes a body 206, a treatment electrode
208, a return electrode 210, and a charging port 212, according to
an embodiment.
[0029] According to an embodiment, the body 206 is a rigid casing.
The body 206 has a shape that enables the user of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 to securely grip and comfortably hold
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 during operation of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102. The body 206 can be made from
a material that is not electrically conductive. The body 206 can be
made from a material that has low thermal conductivity. The body
206 is configured to protect sensitive electronic circuitry
positioned within the body 206, as is described in more detail with
relation to FIG. 3.
[0030] According to an embodiment, the treatment electrode 208 is
an electrical conductor placed at a tip of the body 206. The
treatment electrode 208 can include a rounded shape at a point of
contact with the skin of the user such that the treatment electrode
208 can be placed against the skin of the user comfortably without
piercing or scratching the skin. Furthermore, the shape and
material of the treatment electrode 208 can be selected to enable
the user to comfortably glide the treatment electrode 208 along the
skin of the user's face adjacent to sinuses of the user.
[0031] According to an embodiment, the return electrode 210
includes an electrically conductive material positioned at various
locations on or in the body 206. The return electrode 210 can be
positioned in the body 206 at positions selected so that when the
user holds the handheld sinus treatment device 102 in the user's
hand, the user's hand is in contact with the return electrode 210
on one or more locations on the body 206. According to an
embodiment, the return electrode 210 can include a conductive
polycarbonate.
[0032] According to an embodiment, the charging port 212 is
positioned at the rear of the body 206 of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The charging port 212 is configured to
receive a charging cable. When the charging cable is connected to
the charging port 212, the internal battery of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 is recharged. Additionally, or alternatively,
the charging port 212 can be a power supply port configured to
connect to a power cable that provides power to the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 while the user is using the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The charging port 212 can be a micro USB
port, a USB 2.0 port, a USB 3.0 port, a USB C port, or any other
kind of port that can be utilized to charge the battery of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102, or to otherwise provide power
to the handheld sinus treatment device 102. Additionally, or
alternatively, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can include
wireless charging capability. For example, the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 can include circuitry that enables inductive
charging of the battery of the handheld sinus treatment device 102
such that when the handheld sinus treatment device 102 is
positioned on a charging dock, the battery is recharged by
inductive charging.
[0033] FIG. 2B is a top view of a handheld sinus treatment device
102, according to an embodiment. The top view of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 illustrates the body 206, the treatment
electrode 208, the return electrode 210, indicators 214, a
sensitivity setting button 216, a power button 218, and a low
battery indicator 220.
[0034] According to an embodiment, the indicators 214 can provide
an indication of the sensitivity level of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The sensitivity level corresponds to a
sensitivity setting for detecting treatment areas adjacent to the
sinuses of the user. The indicators 214 can include multiple LED
indicators. The handheld sinus treatment device 102 can illuminate
a number of the sensitivity level indicator LEDs to indicate a
sensitivity level of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 during
a detection mode. A greater number of illuminated indicator LEDs
can correspond to a higher sensitivity level. A lesser number of
illuminated indicator LEDs can correspond to a lower sensitivity
level. Alternatively, other schemes for illuminating LEDs to
indicate a sensitivity level of the detection mode of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 can be utilized. Additionally, the
indicators 214 can include indicators other than LEDs. For example,
the indicators 214 can include various types of lights, a display
panel, or other types of indicators capable of providing an
indication of the sensitivity level of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 during a detection mode of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. According to an embodiment, the indicators 214 can also
signal that a treatment location has been identified, that
treatment stimulation is currently being provided, that another
treatment location should be identified, or other parameters of
operation of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
[0035] According to an embodiment, the sensitivity setting button
216 is configured to enable the user to adjust the sensitivity of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 during a detection mode.
The user can manipulate the sensitivity setting button 216 in order
to increase or decrease the sensitivity of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. For example, the user can press the
sensitivity setting button 216 to adjust the sensitivity of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102. Additionally, or
alternatively, the user can toggle or slide the sensitivity setting
button 216 in order to adjust the sensitivity of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. Additionally, or alternatively, the
sensitivity setting button 216 can include multiple buttons for
adjusting the sensitivity of the handheld sinus treatment device
102. A first button can be used to decrease the sensitivity. A
second button can be used to increase the sensitivity.
Additionally, or alternatively, the handheld sinus treatment device
102 can include a touchscreen that enables the user to adjust the
sensitivity of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
[0036] According to an embodiment, the power button 218 is
configured to enable the user to turn the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 on or off. For example, if the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 is currently off, then the user can turn the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 on by pressing, toggling, sliding, or
otherwise manipulating, the power button 218. If the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 is currently on, then the user can turn the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 off by pressing, toggling,
sliding, or otherwise manipulating the power button 218.
Alternatively, the sensitivity setting button 216 and the power
button 218 can be implemented in a single button or switch that can
adjust the sensitivity or turn the handheld sinus treatment device
102 on or off based on a length of a button press, a number of
button presses, or other types of manipulations of the single
button.
[0037] According to an embodiment, the low battery indicator 220
can provide an indication of a state of charge of the battery of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The low battery indicator
220 can include one or more LEDs. When the battery of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 is low, one or more LEDs of the low
battery indicator 220 can become illuminated. If the low battery
indicator 220 includes a single LED, then the single LED can become
illuminated when the battery is nearing depletion. Conversely, the
single LED may not be illuminated when the battery is not nearing
depletion. Alternatively, when the battery is nearing depletion, a
first LED of a first color can be illuminated to indicate that the
battery is nearing depletion. If the battery is not nearing
depletion, then a second LED of a second color can be illuminated
indicating that the battery is not nearing depletion.
[0038] According to an embodiment, portions of the return electrode
210 are positioned on the sides of the body 206 of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102. When the user grips the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 such that a thumb of the user is in a position
to manipulate the sensitivity setting button 216 and the power
button 218, the palm and/or fingers of the hand of the user will be
in contact with the portion of the return electrode 210 positioned
on the sides of the body 206 of the handheld sinus treatment device
102.
[0039] FIG. 2C is a bottom view of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 of FIG. 2B, according to an embodiment. The bottom view
of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 illustrates a portion of
the return electrode 210 positioned on the bottom portion of the
body 206 of the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The
positioning of a portion of the return electrode 210 on the bottom
of the body 206 of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 further
ensures that when the user holds the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 in the user's hand, the user's hand will be in contact
with the return electrode 210.
[0040] FIG. 2D is an illustration of a face 226 of a user of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 highlighting treatment areas
228. According to an embodiment, the treatment areas 228 correspond
to nerve nodes. The nerve nodes are treatment locations 228 at
which sinus nerves pass through the skull.
[0041] According to an embodiment, the user uses the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 by holding the body 206 in one hand such that
the user's hand is in contact with portions of the return electrode
210. The user then places the treatment electrode 208 on the skin
adjacent to the sinuses and glides the treatment electrode 208 over
the skin during a detection mode of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. In the detection mode, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 detects the treatment location 228 of a nerve node
beneath the skin. When the handheld sinus treatment device 102
detects the treatment location 228 of a nerve node beneath the
skin, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can enter a treatment
mode.
[0042] According to an embodiment, in the treatment mode, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 provides treatment stimulation
to the treatment location 228, corresponding to the nerve that is
located during the detection mode. The handheld sinus treatment
device 102 can provide treatment stimulation to the treatment
location 228 by providing electrical stimulation to the treatment
location 228. The electrical stimulation can affect the nerve node
in such a way that the user experiences relief from troubling sinus
symptoms such as pain, congestion, inflammation, or other
unpleasant symptoms.
[0043] According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 is a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
device. The handheld sinus treatment device 102 applies electrical
treatment stimulation in the form of a microcurrent having selected
characteristics. The microcurrent can have an average magnitude
that is multiple orders of magnitude lower than common TENS
devices. According to an embodiment, the microcurrent does not have
a DC component, but is characterized by current spikes of
alternating polarity. According to an embodiment, the treatment
stimulation is provided at each treatment location 228 for a period
of time between 2-10 seconds.
[0044] According to an embodiment, the treatment electrode 208 is
the active electrode of a monopolar design. The housing/body 206 of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 may serve as the return
electrode 210 when return electrodes 210 are integrated into the
body 206. The user's hand holding the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 completes the electrical path from the conductive
treatment electrode 208 to the return electrode(s) 210 in that
microcurrents may travel from the conductive treatment electrode
208, through the nasal area of the user and down to the hand of the
user that is contacting the return electrode(s) 210, in an
embodiment. These microcurrents may be referred to as "stimulation
currents" in this disclosure.
[0045] According to an embodiment, in the detection mode, the user
presses the conductive treatment electrode 208 to the skin and the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 initiates a low-frequency
circuit that is maintained at a constant current. The handheld
sinus treatment device 102 may use the current to calculate the
impedance in the path between the tissue at the treatment electrode
208 and the hand in contact with the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. The handheld sinus treatment device 102 remains in the
detection mode until the detection current indicates that the
impedance is below a threshold impedance. The position of the
treatment electrode 208 when the impedance is below the threshold
impedance corresponds to a treatment area 228. The treatment area
228 corresponds to a nerve node area. When the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 identifies a treatment area 228 based on the
calculated impedance, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can
enter the treatment mode and can deliver treatment stimulation to
the identified treatment area 228.
[0046] According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 can indicate to the user that the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 is in the treatment mode and that the user
should hold the treatment electrode 208 at the treatment location
228 for a selected period of time. According to an embodiment, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 can indicate the transition
between the detection mode and the treatment mode by the indicators
214. The indicators 214 can include one or more LEDs that can
provide an illumination scheme that indicates whether the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 is in the detection mode or the
treatment mode. According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 can indicate that the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 is in the treatment mode via haptic feedback
(vibration). According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 can indicate whether the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 is in the detection mode, the treatment mode,
or transitioning between the detection and the treatment modes by a
combination of haptic feedback and the LED indicators 214.
According to an embodiment, when the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 enters the treatment mode as indicated by one or more of
the LED indicators 214 and haptic feedback, the user holds the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 in place until the treatment
period has passed as indicated by cessation of haptic feedback and
the LED indicators 214 (approximately 8 seconds, in one
example).
[0047] According to an embodiment, once the treatment period ends,
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 resets to detection mode.
The user then may continue to glide the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 along the indicated path until reaching the next
treatment area 228 is identified based on impedance calculations.
The user may adjust the impedance sensitivity of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102, in one embodiment. Changes in sensitivity
adjust the impedance threshold at which the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 will enter treatment mode. Changes in
sensitivity do not change the output current, in one
embodiment.
[0048] According to an embodiment, the spring-loaded tip activates
the circuit and gently ramps the current to provide maximal comfort
to the user.
[0049] According to an embodiment, constant current stimulation
circuit output is directed to the active treatment electrode 208
(the device tip) and returned to the circuit by way of the return
electrode 210 (metallized portions of the enclosure). When the
circuit is completed by the user pressing the device tip 208 to the
face 226, a microcontroller monitors the resulting stimulation
current and controls the stimulation voltage (across the treatment
electrode 208 and the return electrode 210) to maintain the desired
current, in one embodiment. The impedance of the circuit is then
calculated and monitored by the microcontroller. In the event that
the impedance falls below a specified threshold, which is
indicative of a treatment area 228, the microcontroller presents a
treatment prompt through a user interface (UI), in one embodiment.
According to an embodiment, the user is instructed to maintain the
device tip 208 location until the treatment prompt has timed out.
After treatment time out, the user is instructed to slowly move the
device tip 208 to the next detected treatment area 228, in one
embodiment.
[0050] According to an embodiment, the sensitivity level setting
determines the impedance threshold at which the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 will signal the user to detection of a
treatment area 228. The treatment sensitivity threshold may be
increased to compensate for higher impedance associated with dry
skin or the presence of makeup, in one embodiment. Upon detection
of a treatment area 228, the haptic motor starts to vibrate and the
sensitivity level indicator LEDs 214 flash for a pre-programmed
period of time, in one embodiment. If the calculated impedance
increases above the threshold (device tip 208 removed from the face
226 or moved to a higher impedance location on the face 226), the
treatment session may be terminated.
[0051] According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 operates under the control of the personal electronic
device 104. The handheld sinus treatment device 104 includes a
wireless receiver by which the handheld sinus treatment device 102
receives wireless signals from the personal electronic device 104.
The personal electronic device 104 can include a software
application that enables the user to adjust the settings and
control the operation of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
The user can operate the personal electronic device 104 to adjust
the threshold impedance by which the treatment areas 228 are
identified, to adjust the duration of treatment stimulation, to
adjust the strength of the treatment stimulation, to adjust how
frequently treatments should be applied, to enter training modes by
which the treatment locations 228 are identified and recorded, to
power on and off the handheld sinus treatment device 102, to set
the types of indicators 214 that the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 will utilize in signaling to the user the various modes
of operation of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
[0052] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102, according to an embodiment. The handheld sinus
treatment device 102 includes a current output circuit 329, the
charging port 212, the indicators 214, a user interface 330, a
memory 332, a microcontroller 334, a wireless transceiver 336, a
motor 337, and a battery 338. The current output circuit 329
includes the treatment electrode 208 and the return electrode 210.
The handheld sinus treatment device 102 utilizes these components
to provide effective sinus relief treatments to the user.
[0053] According to an embodiment, the treatment electrode 208 and
the return electrode 210 cooperate together to provide both
detection currents and treatment stimulation. Detection and
treatment currents are passed between the treatment electrode 208
and the return electrode 210 through the body of the user. In
particular, the treatment electrode 208 is positioned in contact
with the user's skin to the sinus areas of the user. The return
electrode 210 is in contact with the user's hand as the user holds
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The detection and
treatment currents pass between the treatment electrode 208 and the
return electrode 210 via the hand, body, and facial skin of the
user.
[0054] According to an embodiment, the indicators 214 provide
indications to the user as to the current mode of operation of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102. The indicators 214 can include
one or more LEDs that can be illuminated in selected ways to
indicate whether the handheld sinus treatment device 102 is powered
on, whether the handheld sinus treatment device 102 is in a
treatment mode, whether the handheld sinus treatment device 102 is
in a detection mode, whether the handheld sinus treatment device
102 awaits user input, whether the handheld sinus treatment device
102 is communicating with the personal electronic device 104, or
indications of other types of functionality of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. According to an embodiment, the indicators
214 can include a display capable of outputting text or images to
indicate to the user the various functions of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102.
[0055] According to an embodiment, the user interface 330 includes
various components that enable the user to control functionality of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The user interface 330 can
include the power on-off button 218, the sensitivity setting button
216, or other kinds of buttons, switches, touchscreens, or input
controls that enable the user to control functionality of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102. The user can manipulate the
user interface 330 in order to control the functionality of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102.
[0056] According to an embodiment, the memory 332 stores data
related to the functionality of the handheld sinus treatment device
102. The memory 332 can include software instructions by which the
various functionalities of the handheld sinus treatment device 102
can be implemented. The memory 332 can include reference impedance
values and/or threshold impedance values. The reference and
threshold impedance values can be utilized in the detection mode of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The memory 332 can include
data indicating previously detected treatment locations 228. The
memory 332 can include other settings such as treatment lengths,
treatment stimulation strengths, frequencies of treatments, or
other settings including default settings and user selected
settings for operation of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
The memory 332 can include one or more of EEPROMs, flash memory,
ROMs, SRAM, DRAM, or other kinds of computer readable media capable
of storing instructions that can be executed by the microcontroller
334.
[0057] According to an embodiment, the wireless transceiver 336 is
configured to receive wireless signals from the personal electronic
device 104. The wireless transceiver 336 can receive the wireless
signals from the personal electronic device 104 to control the
functionality of the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The
wireless signals can include signals that adjust the settings and
control the operation of the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
The wireless signals can include data or instructions that cause
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 to adjust the threshold
impedance by which the treatment areas 228 are identified. The
wireless signals can include data or instructions that cause the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 to adjust the duration of
treatment stimulation. The wireless signals can include data or
instructions that cause the handheld sinus treatment device 102 to
adjust the strength of the treatment stimulation. The wireless
signals can include data or instructions that cause the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 to adjust how frequently treatments
should be applied. The wireless signals can include data or
instructions that cause the handheld sinus treatment device 102 to
enter training modes by which the treatment locations 228 are
identified and recorded. The wireless signals can include data or
instructions that cause the handheld sinus treatment device 102 to
power on and off the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The
wireless signals can include data or instructions that cause the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 to set the types of indicators
214 that the handheld sinus treatment device 102 will utilize in
signaling to the user the various modes of operation of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102.
[0058] According to an embodiment, the wireless transceiver 336
transmits the wireless signals to the personal electronic device
104 indicating the status of the handheld sinus treatment device
102. The wireless receiver 336 can transmit the wireless signals
that indicate whether previously received wireless commands have
been executed. The wireless transceiver 336 can transmit the
wireless signals that indicate whether the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 is functioning properly. The wireless transceiver 336
can transmit the wireless signals that indicate whether the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 is in an error state. The
wireless transceiver 336 can transmit the wireless signals that
provide other kinds of indications to the personal electronic
device 104.
[0059] According to an embodiment, the wireless transceiver 336 is
an RF transceiver. According to an embodiment, the wireless
receiver 336 implements a Bluetooth protocol. According to an
embodiment, the wireless transceiver 336 implements a Zigbee
protocol. According to an embodiment, the wireless transceiver 336
implements a Wi-Fi protocol. The wireless transceiver 336 can
operate in accordance with other protocols. The wireless
transceiver 336 can be a wireless transceiver other than an RF
transceiver. According to an embodiment, the wireless transceiver
336 is instead a wireless receiver capable only of receiving the
wireless signals from the personal electronic device 104.
[0060] According to an embodiment, the motor 337 enables the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 to provide haptic feedback to
the user. For example, during a treatment mode in which the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 provides stimulation treatment
to a treatment area 228, the motor 337 can cause the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 to vibrate mildly to indicate to the user that
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 is in the treatment mode.
The motor 337 can cease the vibration to indicate that the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 is no longer in the treatment mode. The
motor 337 can generate vibrations to provide a variety of types of
indications to the user of the handheld sinus treatment device
102.
[0061] According to an embodiment, the battery 338 provides power
to the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The battery 338 can
include a rechargeable battery that enables the user to recharge
the battery 338 after the battery 338 has become depleted through
use. The battery 338 can be a lithium-ion battery, a NiCad battery,
a carbon zinc battery, an alkaline battery, a nickel metal hydride
battery, or other types of batteries.
[0062] According to an embodiment, the charging port 212 enables
the user to recharge the battery 338. For example, the charging
port 212 can be configured to receive a charging cable that
connects the charging port 212 to a power source. The charging port
212 can include a micro USB port, a USB 2.0 port, a USB 3.0 port, a
USB C port, or other types of charging ports. According to an
embodiment, the charging port 212 enables charging and data
transmission. When a charging cable is plugged into the charging
port 212, the battery 338 can be charged and data can be received
or transmitted over the charging cable via the charging port 212.
According to an embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment device 102
can operate while a charging cable is attached to the charging port
212. Thus, if the battery 338 is depleted, the user can attach a
charging cable to the charging port 212 and can operate the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 from power received via the
charging port 212.
[0063] According to an embodiment, the microcontroller 334 controls
the functionality of the other components of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The microcontroller 334 is communicatively
coupled to the treatment electrode 208, the return electrode 210,
the indicators 214, the memory 332, the user interface 330, the
wireless transceiver 336, and the charging port 212.
[0064] According to an embodiment, the microcontroller 334 executes
the software instructions stored in the memory 332 to implement the
various modes of functionalities of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. The microcontroller 334 causes the treatment electrode
208 and the return electrode 210 to pass the detection currents in
the detection mode, and to pass the treatment stimulation currents
in the treatment mode. The microcontroller 334 controls the
indicators 214 to indicate the various modes of functionalities of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The microcontroller 334
communicates with the user interface 330 to enable the user to
select various modes of operation of the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. The microcontroller 334 controls the functionality of
the wireless transceiver 336.
[0065] According to an embodiment, when wireless signals are
received by the wireless transceiver 336 from the personal
electronic device 104, the microcontroller 334 receives and
processes the wireless signals. The microcontroller 334 can execute
instructions contained in the wireless signals. The microcontroller
334 can write to the memory 332 control data received in the
wireless signals. The microcontroller 334 can read data from the
memory 332 in accordance with instructions received in the wireless
signals.
[0066] FIG. 4. is an illustration of a personal electronic device
104, according to an embodiment. The personal electronic device 104
is a computing device configured to be used by the user to control
and communicate with the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The
personal electronic device 104 transmits wireless signals to the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 in order to communicate with
and control the handheld sinus treatment device 102.
[0067] In the illustration of FIG. 4, the personal electronic
device 104 is a mobile phone. Alternatively, the personal
electronic device 104 is a tablet, a laptop computer, a desktop
computer, an MP3 player, a wearable device, such as a smart watch,
or another kind of personal electronic device capable of
transmitting wireless signals to the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. The personal electronic device 104 includes a camera
440, a button 442, and a touchscreen display 444.
[0068] According to an embodiment, the personal electronic device
104 includes a software application configured to enable the
personal electronic device 104 to communicate with the handheld
sinus treatment device 102. The personal electronic device 104
executes the software application. When the personal electronic
device 104 executes the software application, upon being selected
by the user, the personal electronic device 104 presents a
graphical user interface on the touchscreen display 444. The
graphical user interface enables the user to select icons, menus,
drop-down menus, text boxes, or other graphical user interface
functionality that enables the user to make selections as to how
the user would like to control the handheld sinus treatment device
102.
[0069] According to an embodiment, the graphical user interface
includes a power on icon 443, a power off icon 445, a provide
treatment icon 446, a training mode icon 447, and a settings icon
448. The power on icon 443 enables the user to turn on the handheld
sinus treatment device 102. The power off icon 445 enables the user
to turn off the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The provide
treatment icon 446 enables the user to activate a treatment mode of
the handheld sinus treatment device 102. The training mode icon 447
enables the user to activate a training mode of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The settings icon 448 enables the user to
access various settings of the handheld sinus treatment device 102
and to adjust them. Those of skill in the art will recognize, in
light of the present disclosure, that many other configurations of
a graphical user interface can be implemented in accordance with
principles of the present disclosure. All such other configurations
fall within the scope of the present disclosure
[0070] According to an embodiment, the software application enables
the user to adjust the threshold impedance by which treatment areas
228 are identified in the detection mode of the handheld sinus
treatment device 102. The graphical user interface can present the
user with options to raise the threshold impedance. With increased
threshold impedance, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can
identify the treatment areas 228 that might not be identified as
treatment areas 228, because the treatment areas 228 with higher
impedance will now fall below the threshold impedance. The
graphical user interface can present the user with options to
reduce the threshold impedance. With decreased threshold impedance,
the handheld sinus treatment device 102 will be more selective in
identifying treatment areas 228 because only areas within impedance
that are lower than the reduced threshold impedance will be
identified as treatment areas 228. When the user selects a new
threshold impedance, the personal electronic device 104 transmits
wireless signals including data indicating the new selected
threshold impedance. The handheld sinus treatment device 102
receives the wireless signals including the data indicating the new
selected threshold impedance. The microcontroller 334 writes the
new threshold impedance to the memory 332. The handheld sinus
treatment device 102 operates the detection mode in accordance with
the new threshold impedance. According to an embodiment, the
graphical user interface may present to the user an option to
increase or decrease the sensitivity of the detection mode instead
of specifically enabling the user to increase or decrease the
threshold impedance. Increasing or decreasing the sensitivity of
the detection mode can have the same effect as increasing or
decreasing the threshold impedance, but the user may not be
presented with the term threshold impedance as the term may be
confusing to some users.
[0071] According to an embodiment, the software application enables
the user to adjust the duration of treatment stimulation. As
discussed previously, when the handheld sinus treatment device 102
identifies a treatment area 228 during the detection mode, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 enters a treatment mode by
which treatment stimulation is provided to the treatment area 228.
The handheld sinus treatment device 102 may initially have a
default treatment stimulation length. The default treatment
stimulation length may be between five and 10 seconds. The software
application executed by the personal electronic device 104 enables
the user to adjust the duration of the treatment stimulation. The
software application can enable the user to increase the length of
the treatment stimulation. The software application can enable the
user to decrease the length of the treatment stimulation. When the
user has made selections adjusting the length of the treatment
stimulation, the personal electronic device 104 transmits wireless
signals to the handheld sinus treatment device 102 including data
indicating the newly selected length of the treatment stimulation.
The microcontroller 334 processes the wireless signal and writes
the newly selected length of treatment stimulation to the memory
332. When the user next uses the handheld sinus treatment device
102, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 will provide treatment
simulations in accordance with the selected treatment stimulation
length.
[0072] According to an embodiment, the software application enables
the user to adjust the strength of the treatment stimulation. As
discussed previously, when the handheld sinus treatment device 102
provides treatment stimulation to a treatment area 228, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 passes a treatment current
through the nerve node corresponding to the treatment location 228.
The software application enables the user to adjust the magnitude
of the treatment current, or to otherwise adjust the strength of
the treatment stimulation provided by the handheld sinus treatment
device 102. When the user has made selections adjusting the
strength of the treatment stimulation, the personal electronic
device 104 transmits the wireless signals to the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 including data indicating the newly selected
strength of the treatment stimulation. The microcontroller 334
processes the wireless signal and writes the newly selected
strength of the treatment stimulation to the memory 332. When the
user next uses the handheld sinus treatment device 102, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 will provide treatment
stimulation in accordance with the selected treatment stimulation
strength.
[0073] According to an embodiment, the software application enables
the user to adjust how frequently treatments should be applied. The
handheld sinus treatment device 102 may come with a default
recommendation for frequency with which sinus relief treatments
should be applied. For example, the handheld sinus treatment device
102 may come with the recommendation that the user provide sinus
relief treatments twice daily. The software application may prompt
or otherwise remind the user to utilize the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 in accordance with the default recommended
frequency. However, the software application enables the user to
adjust the frequency with which sinus relief treatments should be
applied by the user. After the user has adjusted the frequency, the
personal electronic device 104 may provide prompts or other kinds
of reminders to the user to utilize the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 in accordance with the adjusted frequency selected by
the user.
[0074] According to an embodiment, the software application enables
the user to enter a training mode 447 by which treatment locations
228 are identified and recorded. When the user selects the training
mode 447 via the graphical user interface provided by the personal
electronic device 104, the personal electronic device 104 transmits
wireless signals to the handheld sinus treatment device 102
initiating the training mode 447. In the training mode 447, the
personal electronic device 104 instructs the user to operate the
handheld sinus treatment device 102. The personal electronic device
104 may instruct the user to position the treatment electrode 208
at a particular treatment location 228 on the user's face 226 and
to glide the treatment electrode 208 on the skin until the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 indicates that a treatment location 228
has been identified. The personal electronic device 104 may then
instruct the user to continue gliding the treatment electrode 208
on the skin until the handheld sinus treatment device 102 has
identified the next treatment location 228. In the training mode
447, the personal electronic device 104 can continue this process
until a selected number of treatment locations 228 have been
identified, or until the user wishes to exit the training mode 447.
In the training mode 447, the personal electronic device 104
transmits wireless signals to the handheld sinus treatment device
102 directing the handheld sinus treatment device 102 to operate in
the training mode 447. According to an embodiment, the training
mode 447 can be utilized only to assist the user in identifying
treatment locations 228 the user has been practicing using the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 and the detection mode.
Alternatively, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can provide
treatment stimulation to the treatment locations 228 during the
training mode 447.
[0075] According to an embodiment, during the training mode 447,
the personal electronic device 104 directs the user to hold the
personal electronic device 104 so that the camera 440 may record a
stream of images of the user's face 226 and the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 during the training mode 447. The personal
electronic device 104 can identify the positions on the user's face
226 that correspond to the treatment locations 228 identified
during the training mode 447. When the user operates the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 in the treatment mode 446, the user can
view the touchscreen display 444 on the personal electronic device
104 to view the treatment locations 228 on the face of the user.
This can assist the user to quickly direct the treatment electrode
208 to the positions on the user's face 226 corresponding to the
previously identified treatment locations 228.
[0076] According to an embodiment, the software application enables
the user to select an icon corresponding to the treatment mode 446.
When the user selects the treatment mode 446, the personal
electronic device 104 transmits wireless signals to the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 causing the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 to be ready to provide treatment stimulation. When the
user selects the treatment mode 446, the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 may first go into the detection mode until the user has
placed the treatment electrode 208 against the treatment location
228. The handheld sinus treatment device 102 may then enter the
treatment mode 446 in which the handheld sinus treatment device 102
applies treatment stimulation to the treatment location 228. In one
embodiment, the user can provide via the GUI, input data including
data related to the user. The input data can include data regarding
symptoms, such as sinus pain or sinus congestion, experienced by
the user. In one embodiment, the data regarding medical symptoms of
the user includes data regarding severity of symptoms. In one
embodiment, the data regarding symptoms of the user includes data
regarding frequency of symptoms. In one embodiment, the application
generates the instructions for operating the handheld sinus
treatment device 102 based in part on the medical symptoms of the
user.
[0077] In one embodiment, entering, via the personal electronic
device 104, the severity of their symptoms before and after
treatment, users can follow their progress. The personal electronic
device 104 can cause the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can
also to adapt to a positive or negative clinical outcome from
treatment as reported by the user by changing the stimulation
parameters for subsequent treatments. The changes can include one
or more the impedance threshold, current amplitude, the frequency,
and the waveform shape.
[0078] FIG. 5 is an illustration of the personal electronic device
104 of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment. The personal electronic
device 104 is displaying a graphical user interface that enables
the user to select various icons in order to adjust settings of the
handheld sinus treatment device 102. In one embodiment, the icons
shown in FIG. 5 can be accessed by selecting the settings icon 448
from FIG. 4. In particular, the graphical user interface displays
an icon 550 corresponding to treatment frequency, an icon 552
corresponding to treatment length, an icon 554 corresponding to
treatment intensity, and an icon 556 corresponding to detect mode
sensitivity.
[0079] FIG. 6 is an illustration of the personal electronic device
104 of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment. The personal electronic
device 104 is in the treatment mode 446, as selected by the user.
In the treatment mode 446, the personal electronic device 104
displays an image of the user's face 226. The image of the user's
face 226 can include guidance indicators 660 that indicate the
position of treatment locations 228 on the face of the user 226.
The position of the treatment locations 228 can be identified
during the training mode 447 described with relation to FIG. 4. As
the user holds the handheld sinus treatment device 102 in one hand,
the user holds the personal electronic device 104 in the other
hand. The user can look at the touchscreen display 444 of the
personal electronic device 104 as the user moves the treatment
electrode 208 of the handheld sinus treatment device 102 on the
skin of the user's face 226. The touchscreen display 444 can show
both the user's face 226 and the current position of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102. The user can quickly move the treatment
electrode 208 to the guidance indicator 660 displayed on the
touchscreen display 444. After the user has positioned the
treatment electrode 208 of the handheld sinus treatment device 102
at the treatment location 228 indicated by the guidance indicator
660, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 can provide the
treatment stimulation to the treatment location 228. After the user
has provided the treatment stimulation to the treatment location
228 corresponding to the guidance indicator 660, the personal
electronic device 104 can display a new guidance indicator 660
indicating the next treatment location 228. The user can move the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 from treatment location 228 to
treatment location 228 with the assistance of the guidance
indicator 660 provided on the touchscreen display 444 of the
personal electronic device 104 until treatment stimulation is
provided to each treatment location 228.
[0080] FIG. 7 is a graph 700 of a treatment stimulation current (I)
vs time (t), according to an embodiment. The treatment stimulation
current is applied during a treatment mode 446 of the handheld
sinus treatment device 102 after the handheld sinus treatment
device 102 has identified a treatment location 228. The treatment
stimulation current provides relief from sinus discomfort to
users.
[0081] According to an embodiment, the sinus treatment stimulation
current corresponds to a series of sharp current spikes 750 or
peaks. According to an embodiment, successive current spikes 750
alternate in direction such that every other current spike 750
flows in a first direction, while intervening current spikes 750
flow in a second, opposite, direction.
[0082] According to an embodiment, the sinus treatment stimulation
current spikes 750 correspond to the rising and falling edges of a
square wave voltage signal. In one embodiment, the treatment
stimulation current is generated by feeding a square wave voltage
signal to a transformer via a capacitor. Those of skill in the art
will recognize, in light of the present disclosure, that a
treatment stimulation current in accordance with FIG. 7 can be
generated in various ways. All such other ways for generating the
treatment stimulation current fall within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0083] In one embodiment, the treatment stimulation current has no
DC offset. The lack of a DC offset can enhance the therapeutic
effect of the treatment stimulation current. This is because, in
one interpretation, the rapid changes in current magnitude and
direction promote physiological effects that do not occur in the
presence of a DC current.
[0084] In one embodiment, the sinus treatment circuitry 329,
including the microcontroller 334 and the memory 332, adjust the
stimulation voltage between the conductive device tip 208 and the
return electrode 210 to maintain a constant treatment stimulation
current during the treatment mode 446. In one embodiment,
maintaining a constant treatment stimulation current corresponds to
causing the peaks of the treatment stimulation current to have
substantially the same magnitudes. In one embodiment, maintaining a
constant treatment stimulation current corresponds to causing the
peaks of the treatment stimulation current to have substantially
the same absolute values. Thus, the positive current peaks and the
negative current peaks have the same absolute value, in one
embodiment. Alternatively, maintaining a constant treatment
stimulation current corresponds to causing the positive current
peaks to have a same first magnitude, and causing the negative
current peaks to have a same second magnitude.
[0085] In one embodiment, the peaks of the sinus treatment
stimulation current have a magnitude less than or equal to 1000
.mu.A. In one embodiment, the peaks of the treatment stimulation
current have a magnitude less than or equal to 600 .mu.A. In one
embodiment, the sinus treatment stimulation current spikes 750 have
an average current less than or equal to 1000 .mu.A. In one
embodiment, the sinus treatment stimulation current spikes 750 have
an average current less than or equal to 600 .mu.A.
[0086] In one embodiment, the frequency of the treatment
stimulation current is less than 1000 Hz. In one embodiment, the
period of a single treatment stimulation current cycle corresponds
to the time between current peaks of the same direction. In one
embodiment, the frequency of the treatment stimulation current is
between 1 Hz and 100 Hz. In one embodiment, the spikes 750 in the
sinus treatment stimulation current make up less than 10% of a
single cycle. In one embodiment, the spikes 750 in the sinus
treatment stimulation current make up less than 5% of a single
cycle. In one embodiment, the spikes 750 in the sinus treatment
stimulation current make up about 3% of a single cycle.
[0087] In one embodiment, during the treatment mode 446, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 measures the impedance by
measuring the peaks of the treatment stimulation current. In one
embodiment, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 adjusts a
stimulation voltage applied between the conductive device tip 208
and the return electrode 210 to bring the magnitude of the peaks of
the treatment stimulation current back to a desired constant
value.
[0088] In one embodiment, in the detection mode in which the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 identifies treatment locations
228, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 measures the impedance
by applying a detection current with a waveform similar or
identical to the treatment stimulation current waveform and
measuring the magnitude of the current peaks of the detection
current in order to determine the impedance. In one embodiment, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 measures the impedance by
passing a detection current with a smaller magnitude than the
treatment stimulation current. In one embodiment, during the
detection mode, the handheld sinus treatment device 102 applies a
detection voltage that is lower than the stimulation voltage
applied during the treatment mode 446. In one embodiment, the
handheld sinus treatment device 102 measures the impedance by
passing a detection current with a waveform entirely different than
the treatment stimulation current waveform.
[0089] Those of skill in the art will recognize, in light of the
present disclosure, that in practice the treatment current may vary
from the graph 700. For example, the risetime and fall time of a
given sinus treatment stimulation current spike 750 may not be
identical. The rise times and fall times of separate sinus
treatment stimulation current spikes 750 may not be identical to
each other. A given sinus treatment stimulation current spike 750
can include, at the tail end, a brief portion that flows in the
opposite direction to the primary direction of the sinus treatment
stimulation current spike 750. In a constant current situation, the
sinus treatment stimulation current spikes 750 may have slightly
differing magnitudes while remaining substantially the same. There
may be noise present among the current waveform. All such
variations from the graph 700 fall within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0090] In one embodiment, the sinus treatment stimulation current
spikes 750 are sharp increases in current followed by a sharp drop
in current. In one embodiment, the rise time and fall time of a
sinus treatment stimulation current spike 750 makes up 90% or more
of the sinus treatment stimulation current spike 750.
[0091] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a process 800 for operating a
personal electronic device (e.g., 104), according to an embodiment.
At 802, the personal electronic device (e.g., 104) provides a
graphical user interface configured to enable a user to select
parameters for controlling a handheld sinus treatment device (e.g.,
102) configured to provide sinus relief treatment stimulation to
the user. At 804, input data is received via the graphical user
interface. The input data includes parameters for operating the
handheld sinus treatment device (e.g., 102). At 806, the personal
electronic device (e.g., 104) transmits wireless signals including
control data to the handheld sinus treatment device (e.g., 102) in
accordance with the input data. The control data includes
instructions for operating the handheld sinus treatment device
(e.g., 102).
[0092] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a process 900 for operating a
personal electronic device (e.g., 104), according to an embodiment.
At 902, a wireless receiver of a handheld sinus treatment device
(e.g., 102) receives wireless signals including control data from a
personal electronic device (e.g., 104). At 904, the control data is
stored in a memory of the handheld sinus treatment device (e.g.,
102). At 906, sinus relief treatment is provided to the user in
accordance with the control data with a current output circuit of
the handheld sinus treatment device (e.g., 102).
[0093] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed
herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various
aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of
illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true
scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.
* * * * *