JP7390028B2 - Device for transmitting electromagnetic waves - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to the treatment of pain, and in particular to the treatment of chronic pain of mild to moderate intensity.

A significant proportion of the population has chronic pain. By definition, chronic pain is also recurrent or continuous, and may occur for months or years without the cause necessarily being identified or eliminated. Therefore, in the absence of methods to neutralize the cause, it is necessary to save the patient by reducing or eradicating the symptoms, namely pain.

Currently, the most common way to treat pain in patients, such as chronic pain, is to administer so-called analgesics to relieve pain, especially when it occurs. Such analgesics may contain paracetamol, opium derivatives such as codeine or morphine, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or narcotics.

However, regular intake of such analgesic active ingredients may lead to undesirable side effects (eg nausea, drowsiness, heartburn).

An alternative to taking drugs is to treat pain with physical therapy. In that case, the risk of side effects and drug dependence is reduced.

In particular, to reduce pain, there is a known form of treatment by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (or TENS), which consists in stimulating nerves by circulating an electric current through areas of the patient's body. However, use of this technique requires large equipment, consisting of electrodes placed on the patient's body and connected to a generator. Additionally, this produces a tingling sensation that can be felt by the patient.

There are also known forms of treatment called "alternative medicine", such as acupuncture, reflexology or Chinese medicine. Although the effectiveness of some of these procedures has been demonstrated, there is no clearly established scientific basis to support their modus operandi.

Finally, there is a known fact that treatment with the transmission of so-called "millimeter" waves (i.e. waves with a frequency of less than 300 gigahertz) reduces pain (Usichenko TI, Edinger H, Gizkho VV, Lehmann C, Wendt M, Feyerherd F See the publication "Low-intensity electromagnetic millimeter waves for pain therapy. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med" (Non-Patent Document 1). In fact, it has been shown that exposing areas of the human body to millimeter electromagnetic waves releases endogenous opioids and leads to the synthesis of enkephalins (natural peptides involved in pain tolerance) in the brain (Rojavin MA, Ziskin MC) See the publication "Electromagnetic millimeter waves increase the duration of anaesthesia caused by ketamine and chloral hydrate in mice Int J Radiat Biol" (Non-Patent Document 2).

Therefore, this technique makes it possible to avoid the disadvantages of painkillers or nerve stimulation treatments, and its mechanism is understood. Additionally, millimeter wave transmission can also be used to treat anxiety or sleep disorders.

Application WO2012/022538 (Patent Document 1) based on this principle discloses a device intended to reduce pain in a patient by transmitting electromagnetic waves to the surface of the patient's body. The device has a large, imposing angular shape that allows the patient to be brought to a specific location to hold the device, or to carry the device at any time and place without being able to keep the device to themselves. The device must be transported to the patient who cannot use it. In addition, the patient must preferably be assisted by one or more personnel specially trained to operate the device. The significant volume of the device is mainly due to the transmission elements, e.g. the generator and the antenna, which must provide frequencies from 30 to 300 GHz, which must have high power flux densities in order for the treatment to be effective. It's my fault.

CEM Tech sells a relatively small device intended to reduce pain through electromagnetic waves. Although this device is small, the power flux density level of the transmitted wave is between 10 ^-19 and 10 ^-5 watts/cm ² . It is now known that the analgesic effect of millimeter waves is not observed for power flux densities below 0.5 mW/ ^cm2 (see the publication "Pain relief caused by Rojavin MA, Radzievsky AA, Cowan A, Ziskin MC"). by millimeter waves in mice: results of cold water tail flick tests” (Non-Patent Document 3).

It is therefore an object of the present invention to effectively treat pain by means of electromagnetic waves and to make a device provided for this purpose accessible and easily usable by the patient. Another object of the invention is to use this device for other purposes, such as producing a sense of well-being, treating anxiety or sleep disorders.

WO2012/022538

Publication "Low-intensity electromagnetic millimeter waves for pain therapy. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med" by Usichenko TI, Edinger H, Gizkho VV, Lehmann C, Wendt M, Feyerherd F Publication "Electromagnetic millimeter waves increase the duration of anaesthesia caused by ketamine and chloral hydrate in mice Int J Radiat Biol" by Rojavin MA, Ziskin MC Publication “Pain relief caused by millimeter waves in mice: results of cold water tail flick tests” by Rojavin MA, Radzievsky AA, Cowan A, Ziskin MC.

To this end, the invention is capable of transmitting waves with a power flux density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of surface and a frequency value of 3 to 120 gigahertz when attached to a surface, and furthermore at least 2.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of surface. A portable device for transmitting electromagnetic waves is provided that can simultaneously expose a square centimeter of surface to the waves.

The device is therefore portable, ie, can and is intended to be worn regularly or continuously by the patient without significant effort and without any logistical or practical drawbacks. In addition, a power flux density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of surface allows the treatment to be effective and reduce pain. Finally, the frequency is a particularly effective frequency band for millimeter wave therapy. Moreover, the study "Electromagnetic millimeter waves for pain therapy Evid Based Complement Alternat Med" by Radzievsky AA, Gordiienko OV, Alekseev S, Szabo I, Cowan A, Ziskin MC has a frequency around 61.25 GHz and a power flux of about 13 mW/cm ² We show that the optimal effect of millimeter wave treatment tends to be achieved at higher density.

With respect to its suitability for exposing a surface of at least 2.5 square centimeters, the device may, for example, represent a module containing several antennas that transmit waves simultaneously, and the area covered by all antennas and thus the module will be able to transmit waves in a uniform manner. at least 2.5 square centimeters exposed to This allows the surface to be continuously exposed to waves in a manner sufficient to induce the expected biological response.

Alternatively, the module exposes 2.5 cm ² to the wave discontinuously, i.e. several surface sections distributed in several different locations, which together result in a simultaneously irradiated surface of 2.5 cm ² You can also do that.

It should be noted that the frequencies transmitted by different antennas are not necessarily the same. Different antennas may transmit different frequencies while being fed by different ASICs. Nevertheless, the frequency remains within the band of interest.

Conveniently, the waves have a power flux density of 5 to 35 mW/cm ² .

Therefore, it is a particularly efficient power band. On the other hand, some standards do not allow power densities greater than 35 mW/cm ² and equipment may be calibrated if necessary to avoid exceeding that limit.

Preferably, the surface is human or animal skin, and the device includes a unit for detecting human or animal skin, and the device is capable of signaling the presence or absence of skin to be exposed to the waves. , and preferably the distance between the skin and the device can be measured.

"Exposing to waves" is also referred to as "irradiating with waves."

Therefore, the device transmits waves directly to the subject's skin only if skin is detected. If no skin is detected, or if the distance between the device and the skin is too great, no transmission will occur. This prevents sending waves in arbitrary directions and allows energy savings. It also makes it possible to adapt the power or other parameters of the transmitted waves based on the estimated distance between the device and the skin.

Conveniently, the device includes at least the following sites:
- Around the wrist;
- leg surface;
- ankle surface;
- dorsal surface;
- Ear surface;
- on the palm; or - more generally, it can be placed on one of any sites exhibiting areas of strong innervation.

The device is therefore attached to one of these sites, for example the wrist, like a wristwatch, in such a way that it is worn without particular inconvenience for the patient. Regarding areas with strong innervation, see the study by Radzievsky AA, Rojavin MA, Cowan A, Alekseev SI, Ziskin MC, “Hypoalgesic effect of millimeter waves in mice: Dependence on the site of exposure. Life sciences. 2000; 66(21): 2101-11” has demonstrated the beneficial therapeutic effects of delivering millimeter waves to such areas.

Preferably, the device includes a rechargeable battery.

The device therefore operates wirelessly. Alternatively, the device may be operated hard-wired to apply higher power or for longer periods of time.

Preferably, the device includes the following elements:
- flexible materials;
- Phase change materials;
- Thermal buffer;
- graphite; and - a heat sink comprising at least one of an elastomeric material.

The heat sink therefore makes it possible to minimize heating of the device in order to maintain the device at a temperature below 43°C. If the heat sink is flexible, it can be adapted to the shape of the device and its handling.

Conveniently, the device includes a unit for measuring at least one data, for example impedance data, from the surface.

This is therefore carried out by transmitting electromagnetic waves and then measuring the output power based on the adaptation of the relative impedance to the skin. Thereby, the device automatically obtains one or more characteristics of the patient's skin.

Preferably, the device comprises a processing unit making it possible to deduce at least one transmission parameter from each measured data.

The data obtained is therefore processed autonomously by the device, which itself adapts the parameters of the waves and requires no intervention by the patient, who only has to activate or program the transmission and do not have to worry about the settings. You don't have to adjust the waves or adapt the waves to your body.

The invention also provides a module for transmitting electromagnetic waves, the module having a total volume of less than 4 cubic centimeters, preferably less than 3 cubic centimeters, and when placed on a surface, transmitting at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of the surface. Suitable for transmitting electromagnetic waves with power flux density.

This module is therefore particularly compact, allowing it to be integrated into portable equipment and easily transported and used. The minimum power flux density of 0.5mW/ ^cm2 is the density at which millimeter wave therapy is effective in treating pain, but this module can also be directed to other applications.

The invention also provides a method of transmitting electromagnetic waves, wherein a transmitter worn by a human or animal subject transmits electromagnetic waves toward the subject's skin, the electromagnetic waves having a power of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of skin. A method is provided having a flux density and a frequency from 3 to 120 gigahertz.

Conveniently, the method comprises the following steps:
- the unit detects human or animal skin; and - the transmitter transmits electromagnetic waves when the unit detects that the skin is located less than 3 millimeters from the transmitter.

Another predetermined distance may be considered. A distance of 3 mm means that the skin absorbs almost all of the power of the electromagnetic radiation, even if the module does not come into contact with the skin, for example when moving the device, or even if the module is not attached by being pressed against the patient's body. corresponds to a distance close enough to allow

Preferably, the method includes the following steps:
- measuring at least one impedance data of the skin; and - adapting at least one transmission parameter depending on the data.

Preferably, the transmission is performed at at least one predetermined acupuncture point of the subject.

In fact, several publications have investigated the effects of millimeter-wave stimulation at acupuncture points, such as the study by Lyensuk VP, Samosyuk IZ, Kulikovich YN, Kozhanova AK, “Experimental study on the low-intensity millimeter-wave electro-magnetic stimulation of acupuncture points.” In particular, it has been demonstrated to have analgesic effects. Since the wrist is an area particularly rich in nerve endings, attaching the device to the wrist, especially at acupuncture point PC6, makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of millimeter electromagnetic wave therapy.

Conveniently, the transmission is controlled at the transmitter or by a device capable of communicating with the transmitter via a telecommunications network.

The invention also provides a computer program product comprising code instructions capable of controlling the performance of the steps of the method when the method is executed on a computer.

This computer program may be included in computer software, but also in an application for a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone or a "smart watch" (also called a "connected watch").

The invention also provides a method of accessing the program of the invention for downloading onto a communications network.

Finally, the invention provides a device comprising telecommunication means and a program according to the invention.

This device may thus be, for example, a computer or a smartphone.
[Invention 1001]
characterized in that, when placed on a surface (60), it is capable of transmitting waves with a power flux density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of the surface and a frequency value of between 3 and 120 GHz; A portable device (10; 100; 1000) for transmitting electromagnetic waves, which can be simultaneously exposed to said waves.
[Present invention 1002]
The device according to the invention, wherein the waves have a power flux density of 5 to 35 mW/cm ² .
[Present invention 1003]
comprising a human or animal skin detection unit (44) capable of signaling the presence or absence of the skin to be exposed to the waves, and preferably said skin (60) and the device (10; 100; 1000); A device (10; 100; 1000) according to any one of the above-mentioned inventions, capable of measuring the distance separating the two.
[Present invention 1004]
At least the following:
- Around the wrist;
- leg surface;
- ankle surface;
- dorsal surface;
- ear surface; or
- on the palm of your hand
10. A device (10; 100; 1000) according to any one of said inventions, suitable for being mounted on one of said devices.
[Present invention 1005]
A device (10; 100; 1000) according to any of the preceding inventions, comprising a rechargeable battery.
[Present invention 1006]
The following elements:
- flexible materials;
- Phase change materials;
- Thermal buffer;
- graphite; and
- Elastomeric materials
The apparatus (10; 100; 1000) of any of the above-mentioned inventions, comprising a heat sink (46) comprising at least one of:
[Present invention 1007]
Apparatus (10; 100; 1000) according to any of the preceding inventions, comprising a unit for measuring at least one data, for example impedance data, from a surface (60).
[Present invention 1008]
Apparatus (10; 100; 1000) according to any of the preceding inventions, comprising a processing unit (20) making it possible to deduce at least one transmission parameter from each measured data.
[Present invention 1009]
A method for transmitting electromagnetic waves, wherein a transmitter (10; 100; 1000; 22; 220; 320; 420) worn by a human or animal subject has a power flux density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of skin and A method of transmitting electromagnetic waves having a frequency value between 3 and 120 gigahertz towards the skin (60) of the subject.
[Present invention 1010]
The following steps:
- the unit (44) detects human or animal skin, and
- the transmitter transmitting a wave when the unit detects that the skin (60) is located less than or equal to 3 mm from the transmitter (10; 100; 1000; 22; 220; 320; 420);
The method of the present invention, comprising:
[Present invention 1011]
The following steps:
- measuring at least one impedance data of the skin (60); and
- adapting at least one transmission parameter depending on the data;
The method of invention 1009 or 1010, comprising:
[Invention 1012]
The method of any of the inventions 1009-1011, wherein the wave transmission is performed at at least one predetermined acupuncture point (6) of the subject.
[Present invention 1013]
The method of any of the inventions 1009-1012, wherein the transmission is controlled by a transmitter or by a device capable of communicating with the transmitter via a telecommunications network.
[Present invention 1014]
A computer program (16) comprising code instructions that, when executed on a computer, are capable of controlling performance of the steps of at least one method of the present invention 1009-1013.
[Present invention 1015]
A method for making the program of the present invention available for download over a communications network.
[Invention 1016]
An apparatus comprising telecommunication means and a program according to the invention 1014.

Aspects of the invention will now be illustrated by way of non-limiting example with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of aspects of the invention. 1 is a description of a portable device according to a first aspect of the invention; 1 is a description of a portable device according to a first aspect of the invention; A first embodiment of such a device is shown. 1 is a description of a portable device according to a first aspect of the invention; 1 is a description of a portable device according to a first aspect of the invention; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram of the components of the transmitter module of the first embodiment; 2 is a description of such a module with and without a heat sink, respectively. 2 is a description of such a module with and without a heat sink, respectively. 16 is an illustration of the radiation of the module of FIGS. 14 and 15. FIG. 2 is a description of the use of the second aspect of the invention. 3 is a description of the use of the third aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention. 5 illustrates components of a module according to another aspect of the invention.

Figure 1 shows the general framework of the invention. Patient 1 has chronic pain. A patient wears the device 10 of the first aspect and first performance of the invention, which treats pain by transmitting millimeter electromagnetic waves to the skin of the patient's 1 wrist. In this case, the device 10 is generally in the form of a wristwatch and is worn on the wrist in the same way as a watch. Apparatus 10 includes a control module 20 and a transmitting module 22, shown schematically in FIG. 2 and in more detail in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6. Device 10 is generally in the form of a watch, but could also be a watch in which modules 22 and 22 are incorporated. Conversely, the functionality of a clock may be incorporated into the device 10.

Control module 20 controls transmitting module 22. Control module 20 is activated by the patient, but may also be programmed by the patient or another user, either directly on device 10 by button 23 or via a terminal such as computer 12. The button 23 comprises a light emitting diode that can be activated to indicate to the patient an event, such as a low battery or the operation of a particular program being executed. The control module 20 is located in the upper part of the device 10, and the millimeter wave transmitting module 22 is located in the lower part, so that it is in contact with the skin of the lower part of the wrist.

The transmitting module 22 incorporated in the device 10 will be described in detail below. This is the transmitting module of the first aspect. This type of module and other aspects thereof may be incorporated into any type of device intended to transmit waves, and not only into the device 10 in the form of a wristwatch. Its use is not limited to pain treatment.

This transmitting module 22, shown as a circuit diagram in FIG. 7, shows several circuit/antenna pairs 42, a heat sink 46, a skin sensor 44, a power input 45, a digital control unit 47, a reference clock 48 and a temperature sensor 49.

Each circuit/antenna pair 42 (one of which is shown in FIG. 8) shows a control interface 24 connected to a control module 20, an ASIC ("application specific integrated circuit") 26, and an antenna 28. Interface 24 may be located within control module 20. The ASIC 26 shown in FIG. 8 includes an oscillator 32, a power amplifier 34, and a digital portion 36 for configuring and controlling the components. It also includes a frequency divider 31, a communication bus 35, a PWM ("Pulse Width Modulation") control unit 37 and a frequency comparator 38, as shown in more detail in FIG. Oscillator 32 makes it possible to generate the ASIC operating frequency. An amplifier amplifies this signal so that the desired power is available at the component output. This power is adjustable from 0 to 20mW. It can probably be increased to 60mW without difficulty. Frequency comparators and dividers make it possible to check the operating frequency. Power management circuitry allows all of the component's functions to be properly powered. Finally, the "PWM" control unit allows the HF output signal to be transmitted continuously or discontinuously. The ASIC framework is shown in Figure 12. This ASIC 26 is manufactured using Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology, which is known to those skilled in the art and therefore will not be described in detail. More specifically, the transistor is of the "CMOS 65 nanometer" type. Alternatively, it can be developed in silicon germanium (SiGe) or gallium arsenide (GaAs). On the other hand, "Gunn diode" type technologies do not allow achieving the desired minimum size and cost. Accordingly, the ASIC 26 is a silicon integrated circuit housed in a ball grid array (BGA) type housing 37 (including balls (also referred to as "bumps") 35), of a type well known to those skilled in the art, custom-built for the ASIC 26. Contains circuit 33. As shown in Figure 13, the circuit 33 has an arrangement known as a "flip chip" that makes it possible to minimize the loss of electromagnetic radiation at high frequencies. are welded to two layers 71 and 72 of a "HF" substrate 39 made of (Fluoroethylene) RO3003. Alternatives to RO3003 could be MT77 (eg from Isola) impregnated glass fiber fabric or RF301 (Taconic) or any other material that provides the same technical advantages as those described above. The two layers 71 and 72 are separated by a layer 73 of RO4450F and copper layers 74, 75, 76 and 77. Additionally, vias 81, 82, 83 and 84 form connections between different substrate layers. Naturally, the type of layers and their number can vary.

Frequency oscillator 32 is placed in a cavity (not shown) within housing 37 that does not disturb the generated frequencies. The size of this BGA housing 37 is in this case 2.2 x 2.2 x 0.9 mm. Connection to the antenna 28 is achieved by a "ball" 43. This set of components makes it possible to minimize losses of electromagnetic waves. It is this antenna 28 that transmits electromagnetic waves to the skin of the patient 1. It goes without saying that the arrangement of ASICs, control interfaces and antennas within the transmitting module may be different.

The terminal connections 41 between the ASIC 26 and its antenna 28 can be seen in FIG. Therefore, the coaxial connection 41 ensures the transmission of waves between the power amplifier 34 and the antenna 28. Antenna generally refers to a radiating element of any form, provided that it is flat. This type of radiating element is called a "patch".

As shown in FIG. 15, ASIC 26 and antenna 28 are placed on either side of substrate 39.

The set of antennas 28 forms an array of antennas as shown in FIG. This antenna array, here rectangular, is about 2.5 cm long by about 1 cm wide, to be placed against the skin of the patient 1 or at a short distance therefrom. The antenna array comprises in this case 27 radiating elements 28 operating in the near field, based on a 9×3 antenna array aligned vertically and horizontally with respect to each other. These quantities and their arrangement are non-limiting, and other arrangements may be considered. In a slightly different embodiment described below, as shown in FIG. 22, the other elements of FIGS. placed around the array. The assembly formed by these elements and the active area located inside measures 37 x 20 mm and forms a transmitting module 22 that can be incorporated into a device such as a bracelet.

This arrangement allows the active area to transmit waves evenly over the skin of 2.5 square centimeters. "Uniform" means that the strength of the waves reaching the skin does not exhibit a deviation of more than about 30% between its maximum value at one point and its minimum value at another point. Figure 18 shows the radiation emitted by the device to the patient's skin in normal operating mode. The black shapes correspond to radiation between 5 and 15 mW/cm ² and the white shapes correspond to radiation below 5 mW/cm ² . It is observed that 75% of the surface is irradiated with waves with a density of 5 to 15 mW/cm ² . In general, power densities can exceed 35 mW/cm ² , but the device is designed so that the power range used is on the order of 5 to 35 mW/cm ² for normal operation, especially for 30 minutes of continuous transmission. It is designed to be. As noted below, this mode of operation is in fact the most common.

FIG. 11 shows the application of the module 22 when transmitting waves towards the skin 60 of the patient 1. In this case, a distance of 3 mm separates the module from the patient's skin. Although the goal is to attach the device to the skin, there may be a small amount of space between the skin and the device. Additionally, for additional comfort and biocompatibility reasons, a silicone layer 52 separates the antenna from the skin so that the skin does not directly support the antenna. Alternatively, it may be another material that is transparent to millimeter waves, such as polycarbonate. Silicone layer 52 may be 1-2 millimeters thick, and the antenna design allows layer 52 to have little or no interference with the emitted waves.

Overall, this transmitter module 22, which can also be referred to as a millimeter module (a wave is said to be "millimeter" in terms of its frequency) or a millimeter card, is in this embodiment 37 millimeters long, 20 millimeters wide, and thick. It is 3mm. Therefore, the volume of a millimeter module is 2.96 cubic centimeters. Thus, as shown in FIG. 16, the module is less than 4 cubic centimeters, even less than 3 cubic centimeters, making it possible to insert it into a light and small-volume device, for example a device 10 in the form of a wristwatch. Having this volume as well as the above arrangement showing 27 antennas and the ASIC 26 deployed and coupled to the antenna 28 means that the millimeter module transmits waves at frequencies between 3 and 300 GHz, preferably between 30 and 120 GHz. I forgive you. The preferred frequency is 61.25GHz±250MHz. In all cases, the power flux density is at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter, and the waves are simultaneously transmitted over 2.5 square centimeters of skin surface. However, millimeter wave therapy becomes effective from a power density of 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter, preferably over a surface of at least 1 square centimeter. The disclosed module is therefore easily integrated into any device thanks to its small volume, thus making it possible to carry out treatments.

It is understood that the ASIC, antenna and overall millimeter module 22 may have different volumes, numbers and arrangements.

Therefore, in the second embodiment shown in FIGS. 21-23, the performance of the module is the same. The difference is that the ASIC is coupled to four antennas on a 10x6.25mm surface. This ASIC/antenna pair thus covers a skin surface of 0.625 cm ² on a 1 mm thick PCB substrate. The four ASICs are each placed in a different "BGA" housing measuring 2.2 mm x 2.2 mm x 1 mm, with four repeats side by side in the millimeter modules shown in Figures 21-23. A module containing two rows of 8 antennas and 4 ASICs (4 housings) then allows continuous irradiation of 2.5 cm ² of skin surface.

An antenna array 91 of this embodiment is shown in FIG. Array 91, referred to as a "resonant cavity" array, includes four layers. Layer 92 allows for the routing of digital and power signals. The second layer 93 becomes the access line to the antenna. The third layer 94 becomes the bond line. Finally, the fourth layer 95 is the layer into which the waves are launched. This antenna array is also realized in the embodiment described above, the only difference being the number of antennas and ASICs and thus the arrangement of these elements.

Alternatively, by placing the ASIC/four antenna pairs separately at different locations on the patient's skin, this 2.5 cm ² surface is irradiated as several separate areas. Similarly, each of these pairs may be used independently to ensure higher comfort or to be incorporated into applications requiring smaller surfaces and thus lower power.

The skin sensor 44 of the described embodiment uses capacitive type measurements that allow it to be determined that the patient's skin is placed in close proximity to the millimeter module 22. Its structure is known to those skilled in the art and is not limited to capacitive measurements, allowing any miniaturizable skin sensor. Skin sensor 44 is connected to control interface 24 and/or control module 20 to determine the presence or absence of human or animal skin. It is also possible to measure the distance between the skin and the millimeter module. Transmission is permitted if the distance is 3 mm or less. Otherwise, control module 20 may prevent transmission. The aim here is, on the one hand, to control the direction of the transmitted waves and, on the other hand, to prevent inefficient transmissions in order to save energy. In the first embodiment, the skin sensor 44 is located outside the module, on the side of the device 10.

Millimeter module 22 may further include a rechargeable battery. Preferably, a device assembly including module 22, such as device 10, has a battery that powers both control module 20 and transmitter module 22. This battery can be charged normally from the mains or in other ways. Naturally, it is of interest that a patient portable device intended to treat pain would be easier to use, with an autonomy of hours or even days.

Some of the module components may, of course, be placed outside the module to better interface with the device containing the module, such as a battery.

Apart from control module 20, millimeter module 22 and skin sensor 44, device 10 includes other components described below.

The band 58 of Figure 3 is flexible and intended to conform to the shape and size of the wrist, as a typical watch strap would be.

Apparatus 10 also includes a dissipator 46, shown in FIG. 5, which may be considered part of millimeter module 22. In this case, the dissipator is located outside this module and includes a flexible band 47 and a thermal buffer 48, these two components being inserted into the strap of the device 10. Band 47 is associated with graphite and rubber. The rubber allows the band to be flexible and thus conform to the strap. Graphite is light and has good thermal conductivity. Band 47 may be made of an elastomeric material other than rubber. It may also be made of a completely different material, which needs to be flexible in order to fit the shape of the device. Buffer 48 includes a phase change material. Thus, during heat dissipation due to operation of the device, the phase change material absorbs a portion of the amount of heat generated, making it possible to maintain the overall temperature. A dissipator is placed within the device to maintain the temperature of the surrounding area of the body below 43° C. during approximately 30 minutes of continuous operation of the device. This temperature of 43°C matches the maximum temperature standards prescribed by the authorities and this is why the equipment is designed to comply with these standards. Therefore, it can also be designed differently if the maximum authorized temperature is higher. Temperature is monitored by a temperature sensor in millimeter module 22.

The device 10 further includes a unit (not shown) for measuring skin impedance. This unit may be part of the millimeter module 22.

For effective treatment, the frequency of the waves transmitted by device 10 via module 22 may be between 3 and 300 gigahertz. However, the frequency of the disclosed device preferably varies between 30 and 120 GHz, with preferred frequencies around 60 GHz, especially around 61.25 GHz.

For the design of module 22 and device 10, the dielectric properties of each component had to be taken into account, such as its dielectric constant, conductivity and loss tangent. Simulations and tests outside the nominal operating range of the 65nm CMOS type ASIC transistor have been carried out and do not question the lifetime of the components with respect to performance of the millimeter wave therapy disclosed below.

Next, the performance of pain treatment in patients is disclosed.

This treatment is intended to send waves towards areas of the patient's skin. Transmissions generally last 30 minutes, once or twice a day. Preferably a frequency of 30 to 120 GHz is predetermined. The frequency may likely change during transmission, and the power flux density may also vary, typically from 5 to 35 mW/cm ² , but may be lower or higher than this range. Of course, any other type of treatment is possible, in particular treatment with longer and/or more frequent transmissions.

In a first embodiment, the waves are transmitted by a module 22 integrated into the device 10 in the form of a wristwatch towards the wrist, i.e. an area of strong innervation, to a known acupuncture point, the acupuncture point PC6 referred to in FIG. may be placed. In fact, the transmission of waves to acupuncture points has been shown to be particularly effective in treating pain. In addition, very good results have been achieved, especially with respect to areas with strong innervation. In fact, the stimulation of nerve endings located under the skin induces a series of physiological effects called a "systemic response", which, on the other hand, are responsible for the reduction of pain, including endogenous opioids (including enkephalins). ) induces the synthesis of Therefore, the more transmission that occurs in areas with a higher density of nerve endings, the more effective the treatment is likely to be. PC6 is also an acupuncture point located in an area with many nerve endings. Devices that transmit waves towards this area are therefore of greatest interest.

Furthermore, there are other potential benefits described in the literature associated with this increase in opioid synthesis, such as lower heart rate and stress, improved sleep or euphoric effects. Such benefits can therefore be derived from the device 10.

The frequency, duration and power of the waves can be parameterized by the module 20 of the device 10. As shown in FIG. 1, it can be pre-programmed by a terminal, for example a computer 12, which can communicate with it by any telecommunications network, for example Bluetooth or Wi-Fi type link 18. The computer 12 has recorded thereon a program 16 for carrying out processes having a link with the invention, as well as various data, in particular the data entered by the patient 1 and the data obtained by the device 10, which make it possible to carry out the invention. Contains 14 databases.

Additionally, by measuring the impedance of the skin using the impedance detection unit, the impedance detection unit transfers characteristic data of the patient's skin to the control module 20. The parameters of the waves transmitted by the module 22 can then be changed automatically via the control unit 20 thanks to the program 16 or manually by the patient or another user. The device 10 thus conforms to the patient's skin. In other words, the electromagnetic field generated is controlled by the characteristics of the skin. It can also be changed based on the distance measured between the skin and the device by the skin detector 44. The device may include other units that measure and process other data obtained directly from the patient, which may serve to adapt the parameters of the transmitted waves, such as power, frequency and duration of transmission. .

Other embodiments of transmitting modules are shown in FIGS. 24-29. These embodiments differ from the previous embodiments in the number of ASICs and antennas. Therefore, the module of Figure 24 includes eight ASICs. Additionally, one or more radiating elements may correspond to an ASIC. Thus, module 320 includes four ASICs for eight radiating elements, at a rate of two radiating elements per ASIC. Finally, module 420 includes six ASICs and six radiating elements.

Furthermore, the transmitting module may also be incorporated into another device, for example for being worn by the patient on another part of the body. Accordingly, FIG. 19 shows a second embodiment of a device 100 comprising a control and transmission module placed on the ankle, and FIG. 20 shows a third embodiment of such a device 1000 placed on the calf. Therefore, in these second and third embodiments, the waves are transmitted to other areas of the patient's body by a device different from device 10, essentially adapted to target areas of the skin. In all cases, the miniaturization of the module allows the device to be lighter and less bulky, making it easier to wear and not overly burdensome.

Changes can be made within this sending module. For example, the structure of the antenna array may be different and exhibit a "microribbon" type feed line or a coaxial probe. The antenna may be a long slot antenna.

The control module may also be incorporated into the electromagnetic wave transmission module.

All thus allow the transmission of electromagnetic waves having a surface power density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of surface and a frequency value of 3 to 120 gigahertz simultaneously over at least 2.5 square centimeters of a surface, continuously or over several surfaces. Several aspects and modes of performance have been demonstrated that allow distributed distribution in separate parts of.

Apart from any pain treatment, the wave transmitting module, perhaps together with the control module, is also of interest for transmitting waves for other purposes, e.g. for improving sleep, especially since it is miniaturized and therefore lightweight. could be. As a result, it can be integrated into any device when millimeter waves need to be transmitted to a surface or in any direction.

Furthermore, the transmission or control module and/or the device incorporating these modules may be remotely controlled from a terminal, for example a computer, or from a mobile terminal. For example, a mobile application containing a pain treatment program may be stored on a mobile device and the patient may program his or her treatment, such as the power, frequency, duration and timing of the transmissions, or the patient's physician or medical assistant may These parameters may be programmed remotely. In this case, the terminal includes software that presents one or more interfaces that allow a user of the terminal to configure the device. A program enabling the implementation of the invention can be downloaded via a telecommunications network.

It may be added that the transmitting module and the device containing it can also be used to reduce stress or create a sense of well-being in the patient.

As a corollary, it is possible to consider the use of electromagnetic wave transmission within the framework of a program of improvement of the problem to be solved, as perceived by the patient. A program may consist of commitments in the use of a series of supervised treatments with evolution of exposure parameters (frequency, power, etc.). One can think of a discovery session followed by a session adapted to the patient's sensations and the power of the perceived effects. Subsequent sessions can also be adapted based on the measurement of said effect (if the sensor allows it). Finally, a therapy session can be triggered programmatically by the user, or automatically if the sensor allows the need to be deduced.

Naturally, certain modifications may be made to the invention without departing from its scope.

Claims (13)

characterized in that, when placed on a surface (60), it is capable of transmitting waves with a power flux density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of the surface and a frequency value of between 3 and 120 GHz; A portable device (10; 100; 1000) for transmitting electromagnetic waves, which can simultaneously be exposed to said waves, said device capable of maintaining said exposed surface at a temperature below 43°C. The apparatus further includes a heat sink, the heat sink including a flexible material and a thermal buffer. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the waves have a power flux density of 5 to 35 mW/ ^cm2 . comprising a human or animal skin detection unit (44) capable of signaling the presence or absence of the skin to be exposed to the waves, and preferably said skin (60) and the device (10; 100; 1000); 3. The device (10; 100; 1000) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device (10; 100; 1000) is capable of measuring the distance separating the At least the following:
- Around the wrist;
- leg surface;
- ankle surface;
- dorsal surface;
4. A device (10; 100; 1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, suitable for being worn on - the surface of the ear; or - one on the palm of the hand. Device (10; 100; 1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a rechargeable battery. The heat sink (46) is
- Phase change materials;
The device (10; 100; 1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising at least one of - graphite; and - an elastomeric material. Device (10; 100; 1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a unit for measuring at least one data, for example impedance data, from the surface (60). 8. The device (10; 100; 1000) according to claim 7, comprising a processing unit (20) making it possible to deduce at least one transmission parameter from each measured data. A transmitter (10; 100; 1000; 22; 220; 320; 420) placed on a surface (60) of interest has a power flux density of at least 0.5 milliwatts per square centimeter of said surface (60) and a power flux density of between 3 and 120 GHz. A method for transmitting electromagnetic waves, the method comprising transmitting electromagnetic waves having a frequency value towards the surface (60) of the object, the method comprising:
The transmitter is configured to simultaneously expose at least 2.5 square centimeters of the surface to the electromagnetic radiation, and the transmitter further includes a heat sink capable of maintaining the exposed surface at a temperature below 43°C. the heat sink includes a flexible material and a thermal buffer;
The method. The following steps:
- a unit (44) detecting a surface (60); and - a step in which the unit (44) detects a surface (60); 10. The method of claim 9, comprising the step of the transmitter transmitting a wave when so detected. The following steps:
11. The method according to claim 10, comprising: - measuring at least one impedance data of the surface (60); and - adapting at least one transmission parameter depending on said data. Method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the wave transmission is carried out at at least one predetermined acupuncture point (6) of the subject. 13. A method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the transmission is controlled by a transmitter or by a device capable of communicating with the transmitter via a telecommunications network.

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