JP7359996B2 - light epilator - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a photoepilator.

Conventionally, photoremoval (flash hair removal) has been performed in which the skin surface is irradiated with pulsed light that generates heat in response to the melanin pigment in the hair roots to promote hair removal.

The handpiece of the photoepilator has a built-in light source, and pulsed light is emitted through a rectangular irradiation window. The practitioner grasps the handpiece, positions the irradiation window to face the target hair removal area of the patient, and performs predetermined operations such as pressing a button to emit pulsed light, thereby damaging the hair roots (dermal papillae). Promotes hair loss by giving and weakening.

In addition, when the target area for hair removal is wide, if pulsed light is emitted from the irradiation window, the area on the target area for hair removal (hereinafter referred to as irradiation target area T) that will be irradiated with an intensity effective for hair removal will be the area immediately before the irradiation. Repeat the irradiation process by moving the irradiation window to a position that circumscribes the completed area. Thereby, the irradiated area is continuously formed, and it is possible to uniformly irradiate the entire area to be removed.

As described above, photoremoval is an extremely useful hair removal method because it can be applied regardless of the size of the area to be removed, and is less painful and effective. However, since excessive irradiation with pulsed light may damage areas other than the hair roots, the practitioner must be careful to apply appropriate irradiation energy.

In particular, it is necessary to avoid overlapping irradiation by setting an irradiation target area to overlap an irradiated area that has already been irradiated with pulsed light and irradiating the pulsed light overlappingly, that is, overlapping irradiation.

Furthermore, if there is too much space between the irradiated area and the irradiation target area, the hair removal effect in the gap area will be poor and it cannot be said to be efficient. Therefore, it is preferable to set the irradiation target area as close as possible to the irradiated area but not to overlap.

Photo hair removal treatments are generally performed by practitioners who have acquired a certain level of knowledge, but the above-mentioned setting of the irradiation target area to the appropriate position, that is, the operation of moving the irradiation window, requires a relatively advanced level of skill. Since this work requires a lot of skill, it may depend on the practitioner's experience and skill.

Therefore, if the control unit of the photoepilation device determines that the practitioner has placed the irradiation window at an appropriate position, it should be noted that the irradiation target area does not overlap with the previously irradiated area and a slight gap is allowed. A photoepilation device has been proposed that automatically turns on the light source and emits pulsed light from the irradiation window when the control unit of the photoepilation device determines that the device has reached a position where the device is open but not too open (circumscribed position). (For example, see Patent Document 1.).

According to such a light hair removal device, it is possible to assist the practitioner in hair removal work, and more reliable and safe pulsed light irradiation can be realized.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-168094

By the way, as shown in FIG. 12(a), when it is assumed that a hair removal process is performed using a handpiece equipped with a wide rectangular irradiation window 200 with a width of A and a length of B (A>B), When continuously forming the irradiated area U on the hair removal target area Q by automatic light emission, the movement direction of the irradiation window 200 is made to match the length direction of the irradiation window as shown in FIG. 12(b). By moving (moving the irradiation window in the length direction of the irradiation window), hair removal can be performed efficiently. A hair removal operation performed by moving the irradiation window in this manner is called a parallel movement irradiation operation. Note that the irradiation window 200 and the hair removal target area Q in FIGS. The treatment will be performed.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 12(a), a point P on the hair removal target area opposite to a predetermined point P' of the irradiation window 200 (for example, the central part of the irradiation window 200 in the width direction and the length direction is When setting a point P' on the hair removal target area opposite to point P' (hereinafter also simply referred to as reference point P), the timing of pulsed light emission in the above-mentioned parallel irradiation work is as follows: As shown in FIG. 12(b), the distance from the position of the reference point P1 of the immediately previous irradiated area U1 to the position of the reference point P2 of the irradiation target area T2 (reference point P2 at the current irradiation window position) is By setting the time when the irradiation window length B is reached, the irradiated area U2 can be continuously formed at the circumscribed position, and it is sufficient to monitor only the amount of movement of the irradiation window 200 in the length direction. The processing of the light emission timing in the control section of the optical hair removal device is also relatively simple.

In normal photoremoval treatment, work is performed exclusively by parallel irradiation work, but for example, as shown in FIG. 13(a), when the width of the hair removal target area Q is shorter than the width A of the irradiation window 200. The hair removal process is performed by tilting the irradiation window 200 so that the length direction of the irradiation window has an inclination of a predetermined angle θ with respect to the moving direction of the irradiation window. In the following explanation, the moving direction of the irradiation window 200 and the length direction of the irradiation window 200 are matched (the state shown by the broken line), while the irradiation window 200 is moved linearly with the irradiation window 200 tilted. The hair removal process performed is called oblique movement irradiation work.

In addition, when performing oblique movement irradiation work, a continuous irradiated area V is formed in which the irradiated area U is continuous, but the upper and lower parts of the continuous irradiated area V along the moving direction of the irradiation window (one point (shown surrounded by chain lines) has a sawtooth shape because the corners of each irradiated area U protrude, and irradiated areas and non-irradiated areas appear alternately. Therefore, here, the concept of effective irradiation width is used in order to make it possible to consider the irradiated and non-irradiated areas of the sawtooth area by canceling them out and making them uniform. The effective irradiation width is a value obtained by multiplying the length A in the width direction by cos θ, and the inclination θ of the irradiation window 200 in FIG. 13 is an angle at which the effective irradiation width becomes the width of the hair removal target area Q.

Here, the control unit of the optical hair removal device monitors the amount of movement of the irradiation window 200 in the length direction, and when processing the light emission timing based on this amount of movement in the length direction, the inclination θ is relatively small. If it is an angle, when the irradiation window 200 moves from the irradiated area U3 to the irradiation target area T4, the irradiation window 200 at the vector M of the trajectory from the reference point P3 to the reference point P4 can be moved without performing any special control processing. When the length of the component M _b in the length direction becomes the length B in the length direction of the irradiation window 200, that is, pulsed light emission is performed at a position where the irradiation target region T4 circumscribes the irradiated region U3, There is no particular problem.

However, if the inclination θ is a relatively large angle, for example 80° or more, the value of cos θ becomes small, which significantly reduces the accuracy of detecting the distance traveled, making it difficult to emit pulsed light at an appropriate position. .

Furthermore, when the inclination θ is 90°, the detected amount of movement of the irradiation window 200 in the length direction becomes 0, making it impossible to emit light at an appropriate position.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and is applicable to cases in which the inclination of the handpiece (the angle formed by the short side of the irradiation window and the direction of movement) is increased when performing oblique movement irradiation work. To provide a photo-epilator which can automatically irradiate pulsed light at a position circumscribing the immediately previous irradiated area.

In order to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, the optical hair removal device according to the present invention provides (1) an irradiation window that emits pulsed light from a light source, and a movement of the irradiation window along the surface direction of the surface of the area to be removed. Based on information from a movement detecting means that detects and sends out information on the amount of movement, and the movement detecting means accompanying a linear movement of the irradiation window facing the hair removal target area along the surface direction, When pulsed light is emitted from the irradiation window, the light source emits pulse light at a position of the irradiation window where the area on the surface of the area to be irradiated is circumscribed with the immediately previous irradiated area, and the irradiated area is moved in the moving direction. a control unit comprising a continuous light emitting mode executing means that continuously forms a light emitting window to promote hair removal in the irradiated area, wherein the irradiation window is orthogonal to the surface of the hair removal target area. It has a rectangular shape with a length B in the X-axis direction and A in the Y-axis direction of a two-dimensional coordinate system, and the continuous light emission mode execution means is configured to detect the Based on the information on the amount of movement in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system, the direction of movement of the irradiation window from the immediately previous pulsed light emission position to the current position is the same orthogonal to the movement direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system. a moving distance/angle calculation means for calculating the angle θ formed by the X-axis of the two-dimensional coordinate system and the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system; arctan(B/A)]°]±5°, and when the angle θ is 0°≦θ≦α, the integration in the X-axis direction; If the moving distance is B or more, the light source is caused to emit pulses, and if the angle θ is α<θ≦90°, if the cumulative moving distance in the Y-axis direction is A or more, the light source is caused to emit pulses. pulsed light emitting means, the control unit does not cause the light source to emit light unless there is a predetermined input operation by the user, and when there is the input operation, causes the light source to emit pulsed light to single-shot the irradiated area. The continuous light emission mode execution means is provided with a single light emission mode execution means for forming The amount of movement in the axial direction, if the angle θ is α<θ≦90°, the sign of the amount of movement in the Y-axis direction is reversed from the sign of the amount of movement in the same axial direction within the previous minute time. In such a case, the apparatus is provided with a duplicate irradiation suppressing means for starting execution of the single light emission mode executing means .

Furthermore, the optical hair removal device according to the present invention also has the following features.
( 2 ) A movement speed warning means is provided for notifying the user before the pulse emission by the pulse emission means when the elapsed time from the previous pulse emission is less than a predetermined time when the light source emits pulse light.

According to the optical hair removal device according to the present invention, the irradiation window emits pulsed light from the light source, and the movement of the irradiation window that detects the movement of the irradiation window along the surface direction of the surface of the area to be removed and sends information on the amount of movement. If pulsed light is emitted from the irradiation window based on information from the detection means and the movement detection means accompanying the linear movement of the irradiation window facing the hair removal target area along the surface direction. For example, the light source emits pulses at a position of the irradiation window where the area on the surface of the area to be irradiated for hair removal circumscribes the immediately previous irradiated area, and the irradiated area is continuously formed in the moving direction to form the irradiated area. and a control unit equipped with a continuous light emitting mode execution means that promotes hair removal, wherein the irradiation window is arranged in the X-axis direction of an orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system assumed to be on the surface of the hair removal target area. It has a rectangular shape having a length of A in the Y-axis direction, and the continuous light emitting mode execution means is configured to move in the X-axis direction and Y-axis in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system within a predetermined minute time supplied from the movement detection means. Based on the information on the amount of movement in the axial direction, the angle formed by the moving direction of the irradiation window in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system from the immediately previous pulsed light emission position to the current position and the X axis of the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system. a moving distance/angle calculation means for calculating θ and the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system; threshold angle providing means for providing a threshold angle α within the range of and a pulse light emitting means that causes the light source to emit pulse light when the angle θ is α<θ≦90° and the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction is equal to or greater than A. When performing oblique movement irradiation work, even if the handpiece inclination (the angle formed between the short side of the irradiation window and the direction of movement) is increased, the irradiation is automatically performed at a position circumscribing the previously irradiated area. It is possible to provide a photo-epilator that can irradiate pulsed light.

Further, the control unit does not cause the light source to emit light unless there is a predetermined input operation by a user, and when the input operation is performed, the control unit causes the light source to emit pulsed light to single-shot the irradiated area. mode execution means, and the continuous light emission mode execution means is configured to control the amount of movement in the X-axis direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system within the minute time when the angle θ is 0°≦θ≦α. , if the angle θ is α<θ≦90°, and the sign of the movement amount in the Y-axis direction is reversed with respect to the sign of the movement amount in the same axial direction within the previous minute time, the above-mentioned If the device is equipped with a duplicate irradiation suppressing means that starts execution of the single emission mode execution means, when the practitioner moves the handpiece in the opposite direction to the previous movement direction, the continuous emission mode is changed to the single emission mode. Therefore, it is possible to provide a photo-epilation device that allows safer treatment.

Furthermore, when the light source emits pulse light, if the elapsed time from the previous pulse light emission is less than a predetermined time, the moving speed alarm means is provided to notify the user before the pulse light emission by the pulse light emitting means. , it is possible to secure the time necessary for the optical epilator to be in a state where it can emit pulsed light, and to perform a reliable treatment.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the external configuration of the optical hair removal device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the appearance of the handpiece. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a cooling section. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the optical epilator. This is the flow of main processing. It is a flow of single light emission mode execution processing. It is a flow of continuous light emission mode execution processing. It is an explanatory view showing the usage state of a photoepilation device. It is an explanatory view showing the situation during hair removal work. It is an explanatory view showing the situation during hair removal work. It is an explanatory view showing the situation during hair removal work. It is an explanatory view showing the situation during hair removal work. It is an explanatory view showing the situation during hair removal work.

Hereinafter, the optical hair removal device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment. The optical hair removal device K includes a device main body 1, a hand piece 5 that can be connected to the device main body 1 via an energized cable 4, and a built-in hand piece that spans both the device main body 1 and the hand piece 5. A cooling section 6 (see FIG. 3) for cooling the heat generated by the light emission of the xenon tube 56 of No. 5 is provided.

The device body 1 is made up of a control circuit such as a microcomputer, and includes a control section 2 that performs various control processes, and an operation section 3 that includes operation keys and a display.

The operation unit 3 is provided with an operation panel 30, an emergency stop button 31, and a key switch 32.

The operation panel 30 is a part for performing input and display output related to the main operations of the optical hair removal device K, and is provided with a display panel 33, a MODE button 34, an OK button 35, and a SELECT button 36.

The display panel 33 functions as a means for visually providing information such as the status of various settings and alarms to the user performing the treatment.

The MODE button 34 is an input section for accepting selection of the operation mode of the device main body 1. The optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment is provided with four buttons A to D, each of which is assigned a different mode. As will be described in detail later, the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment has a continuous light emission mode that automatically and continuously forms an irradiated area in the moving direction of the handpiece 5 to promote hair removal in the irradiated area. For example, when the A button is pressed, continuous light emission is implemented. The camera is configured to shift to the single light emission mode when the camera shifts to the mode or presses the B button. The remaining buttons, such as the C button and the D button, are buttons for shifting to a mode that emits light appropriately depending on the irradiation location, such as the face or body.

The OK button 35 is a button for confirming the input when the user performs a predetermined input operation. For example, after pressing the button of the desired mode among the OK buttons 35 described above, pressing the OK button 35 confirms the operation input in the control process.

The SELECT button 36 is a button for adjusting the intensity of light, and is configured so that an appropriate intensity of light can be selected depending on the skin condition of the area to be removed.

The emergency stop button 31 is a button for forcibly stopping light irradiation, etc. when an emergency situation occurs. The key switch 32 is a switch that becomes operable when a key (not shown) is inserted and turned clockwise to turn on the power.

Further, on the front surface of the device main body 1, a connector portion 8 is provided which functions as a connection portion between the current-carrying cable 4 having a hand piece 5 at its tip and the device main body 1. The connector portion 8 is provided with an electrical system connector 81 and a cooling water connector 82.

As shown in FIG. 2, the handpiece 5 includes a short semi-cylindrical handpiece body 50 and a rod-shaped grip portion 59 extending from a curved surface 50a of the handpiece body 50. The person performs the treatment while gripping the grip portion 59 as shown in FIG. 2(a), or gripping the handpiece body 50 with his/her hand as shown in FIG. 2(b).

In addition, both sides of the handpiece main body 50 are formed with a slightly concave shape in the center, and a semicircular convex strip along the semicircular upper surface is formed on the upper side of the side, so that the handpiece body 50 can be grasped with the palm of one hand. This improves the grip when using.

The handpiece main body 50 is equipped with an irradiation section 55 as shown in FIG. 2, and a first irradiation button 51, a display 53, and an irradiation counter 54 as shown in FIG.

The irradiation unit 55 is a part for emitting pulsed light to the area to be removed, and mainly includes a xenon tube 56 and an irradiation window 57.

The xenon tube 56 is a portion that functions as a light source of pulsed light, and is disposed inside the handpiece body 50. When a high voltage is instantaneously applied to the xenon tube 56, light that reacts with the melanin pigment in the hair root and generates heat is generated as pulsed light. The generated pulsed light can emit light with a width of, for example, 20ms to 1500ms. Further, the xenon tube 56 emits light in a shimmering manner by passing a weak current even when the xenon tube 56 is not lit, so that it can emit light at high speed during irradiation.

The irradiation window 57 is a window for guiding the pulsed light generated by the xenon tube 56 to the outside of the handpiece body 50, and is arranged on the bottom surface portion 50b of the handpiece body 50 facing the area to be removed. In this embodiment, the irradiation window 57 is constituted by a light guide tube made of sapphire, for example, and its size is such that the length A of the long side in the width direction is 60 mm, and the length A of the short side in the length direction is 60 mm. The length B is 20 mm.

Further, when paying attention to the curved surface 50a of the handpiece body 50, a display 53 and a first irradiation button 51 are provided on the curved surface 50a. That is, an indicator 53 consisting of a small circular irradiation preparation lamp is disposed at the tip of the semi-circular upper surface, and behind the indicator 53 is placed on the ventral surface of the tip of the index finger when the handpiece body 50 is held in the palm of the hand. A first irradiation button 51 is provided, and an irradiation counter 54 consisting of a liquid crystal display window is further provided behind the first irradiation button 51.

The display device 53 is equipped with a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode, and when the user scans the handpiece 5 in the reverse direction in continuous light emission mode, it is configured to notify the user by emitting light. There is.

The first irradiation button 51 is a button for emitting pulsed light from the irradiation unit 55 when the user presses it at an arbitrary timing in the single emission mode described above.

The irradiation counter 54 is a part where the number of times the pulsed light is emitted is displayed. The irradiation counter 54 displays, for example, the cumulative number of irradiations since the time when the optical hair removal device K was purchased and installed, based on the counter value stored in a predetermined storage area of the control unit 2.

On the other hand, the rod-shaped grip part 59 is formed integrally with the case of the handpiece body, has approximately the same length as the front-to-back length of the handpiece body, and has a substantially convex semicircular extension on the upper surface of the handpiece body. It extends to the base end, that is, the upper base end of the handpiece body. In this way, since the handpiece body 50 and the grip portion 59 are configured to be grippable, it is possible to adopt a grip form that is easy to operate depending on the area to be treated for hair removal.

Further, a second irradiation button 52 is provided on the grip portion 59. As shown in FIG. 2(a), this second irradiation button 52 is arranged at a position where the ball of the thumb faces when the user grips the grip part 59, and is set at a desired timing in the single emission mode. The configuration is such that the emission of the pulsed light, that is, the pressing of the second irradiation button 52 is performed smoothly, and safe and reliable operation is possible.

Furthermore, a current-carrying cable 4 for connection to the device main body 1 extends from the grip portion 59 .

The energizing cable 4 includes a signal line for exchanging various signals between the device body 1 and the handpiece 5, a power line for supplying power to the xenon tube 56, and a power line for supplying cooling water between the device body 1 and the handpiece 5. A cooling water pipe 64 for circulation is housed. The energizing cable 4 has one end connected to the connector section 8 and the other end connected to the handpiece body 50 through the grip section 59.

Further, as one of the features of the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, a movement detection section 58 is disposed on the bottom surface portion 50b of the handpiece body 50 in close proximity to the side 57a forming the width direction of the irradiation window 57. has been done. This movement detecting unit 58 detects when the user grasps the handpiece 5 and scans the surface of the hair removal target area with the irradiation window 57 facing the hair removal target area when the optical hair removal device K is in the continuous light emission mode. This is a portion that functions as a part of movement detection means that detects movement of the irradiation window 57 along the surface direction. In the present embodiment, the movement detection unit 58 employs a so-called optical mouse sensor, and analyzes the temporal change of images obtained by a built-in image sensor to detect movement within a minute time period (for example, several tens of milliseconds) of the irradiation window. The amount of movement (ΔX, ΔY) in the X-axis and Y-axis directions defined for the image sensor during the movement of is sent to the control unit 2 at approximately the same minute intervals. Further, the optical mouse sensor is arranged such that the X-axis direction defined in the image sensor is parallel to the length direction of the irradiation window 57, and the Y-axis direction is parallel to the width direction of the irradiation window 57. Therefore, the movement amount ΔX in the X-axis direction and the movement amount ΔY in the Y-axis direction per minute time supplied from the movement detection unit 58, which is an optical mouse sensor, are substantially the same as the X-axis and Y-axis of the irradiation window 57. Supplied as axial movement amounts ΔX and ΔY. In this specification, in order to represent the relationship between the hair removal target area and the irradiation window, a coordinate system defined on the hair removal target area when the irradiation window is opposed to the hair removal target area is used. The following description assumes an orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system (hereinafter referred to as a hair removal area coordinate system) in which the length direction of the irradiation window is the X-axis direction and the width direction is the Y-axis direction along the surface. Further, in the following description, for convenience, it will be assumed that the movement amount ΔX and ΔY of the irradiation window 57 in the X-axis and Y-axis directions in the hair removal area coordinate system per minute time can be obtained from the movement detection unit 58.

Further, as one of the further features of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment, a speaker 41 is disposed on the top surface of the device main body 1. This speaker 41 is a part for letting the user know the current state of the optical hair removal device K, such as the current mode, through sound, without having to refer to the display panel 33 during treatment. This is a part that functions as part of a notification means for notifying the status of the epilator K.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the cooling section 6. As shown in FIG. The cooling unit 6 is a part for cooling the heat generated due to the light emission of the xenon tube 56 of the hand piece 5, and is a part for cooling the heat generated due to the light emission of the xenon tube 56 of the hand piece 5. It is constructed by connecting via a cooling water pipe 64 built into the energizing cable 4.

The refrigerant cooling unit 42 includes a Peltier unit 61 as a cooling device, a cooling water tank 62 for replenishing or storing cooling water as a refrigerant, and a water pump 63.

The Peltier unit 61 is a water-cooled cooling device using a Peltier element, which is a thermoelectric element that utilizes the Peltier effect, and cools water supplied from the cooling water tank 62. The cooled water is sent out via the cooling water connector 82 of the connector section 8 by the water pump 63.

A cooling water pipe 64 (an outgoing cooling water pipe 64 a and an incoming cooling water pipe 64 b ) is connected to the cooling water connector 82 , and the sent out cooling water is transferred to the outgoing cooling water pipe housed in the energizing cable 4 . It enters the hand piece 5 through 64a and reaches the refrigerant heat absorption section 43.

The refrigerant heat absorption section 43 includes an irradiation window cooling pipe 43a arranged to remove heat from the irradiation window 57, a xenon pipe cooling pipe 43b arranged to remove heat from the xenon tube 56, and an irradiation window cooling pipe. A connecting pipe 43c is provided for supplying the cooling water discharged from the pipe 43a to the xenon tube cooling pipe 43b. Note that for convenience of illustration, the refrigerant heat absorbing part 43 is shown between the xenon tube 56 and the irradiation window 57, but in reality it is located at a position that does not prevent the pulsed light generated by the xenon tube 56 from being guided to the irradiation window 57. It is arranged in

The cooling water supplied to the refrigerant heat absorption section 43 cools the irradiation window 57 in the irradiation window cooling pipe 43a, is introduced into the xenon tube cooling pipe 43b via the connection pipe 43c, cools the xenon tube 56, and cools the xenon tube 56. The refrigerant is discharged from the heat absorption section 43.

The cooling water that has passed through the refrigerant heat absorption section 43 enters the device main body 1 through the return cooling water pipe 64b housed in the energizing cable 4, reaches the Peltier unit 61 in the refrigerant cooling section 42, is circulated, and is cooled again. Ru. In this way, the cooling section 6 cools the xenon tube 56 and the irradiation window 57 provided in the irradiation section 55 of the handpiece body 50.

Next, the electrical configuration of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment will be explained. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the electrical configuration of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment.

The control unit 2 is internally equipped with a CPU 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, etc., and is capable of executing programs necessary for operating the optical hair removal device K. Further, the RAM 23 in the control unit 2 stores a waiting time value, a moving distance conversion coefficient, and values of the width and length of the irradiation window, which are referred to in the moving speed alarm process. Further, the RAM 23 may also store a threshold angle α that is referred to in continuous light emission mode execution processing described later. Note that the RAM 23 that stores this threshold angle α functions as a threshold angle storage means and plays a role as a threshold angle providing means of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment.

The threshold angle α is a value specified from the numerical range defined by the length in the width direction and the length in the length direction of the rectangular irradiation window. A)}°]±5°. In addition, in the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment, since A=60 mm and B=20 mm, [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°]±5° is in the range of 66.6° to 76.5°. The threshold angle α is set to 70.5°, which is also the value of {arccos(B/A)}° rounded to the second decimal place. Note that in acquiring rights to this technology, the value of the threshold angle α may be set to a value other than the value based on [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°]±5°. For example, the value of the threshold angle α may be set to {arccos(B/A)}°, a tolerance range may be added to this value based on experience, or a predetermined value may be set based on experience rather than on a mathematical formula. You can also use it as From a high-level perspective, the present application can be said to be unique in that the processing is different after a predetermined threshold angle α, regardless of the basis of the threshold angle.

This threshold angle α may be stored in advance at a predetermined address in the RAM 23, and may be determined based on the size of the irradiation window by [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°]+β (however, β is - It is also possible to calculate the value obtained by 5°≦β≦5° and store it in a predetermined address of the RAM 23, or it is possible to directly refer to the calculated value in processing. Also good.

For example, in the former case where the threshold angle α is stored in advance, for example, the threshold angle α is stored in advance in the manufacturing process of the optical hair removal device K, or the threshold angle α is stored in advance in a memory provided in the hand piece 5, etc. A case may be considered in which the angle α is stored and can be referenced by the device main body 1. In particular, if the threshold angle α is stored in the handpiece 5, when a handpiece with a different size irradiation window is replaced, the device main body 1 can refer to the threshold angle α stored in the memory of the handpiece 5. This is simple and does not require any work such as changing the threshold angle α. In this case, the configuration that stores the threshold angle α, such as the RAM 23, nonvolatile memory, or other various storage media, is a threshold angle storage means, and the threshold angle is stored when the CPU 21 executes the process. This is one aspect of the threshold angle providing means.

For example, in the latter case where the calculation is based on the size of the irradiation window, the control unit 2 is provided with a calculation means for the threshold angle α, and the irradiation window size is stored in advance in a memory or the like during the manufacturing process of the optical hair removal device K. Then, the threshold angle α can be calculated by referring to the memory in the threshold angle α calculation means, or the threshold angle α can be calculated by having the user input the size of the irradiation window, or the hand piece 5 The threshold angle α can be calculated by storing the irradiation window size in advance in a memory provided in the device and making it referenceable by the device body 1, or by storing this calculated value in a predetermined storage area. It is also possible to configure the system to refer to this. In this case, the threshold angle calculating means that calculates the threshold angle α is one aspect of the threshold angle providing means that provides the threshold angle when the CPU 21 executes the process.

In addition, as is clear from the above-mentioned technical concept, "threshold angle providing means for providing the threshold angle α" in the specification of this application refers to a memory that directly stores the value of the threshold angle α, as well as a memory that directly stores the value of the threshold angle α. It should be understood that it also includes a means configured to memorize the window size and calculate based on this, in the same way as memorizing the threshold angle α. It is. In this embodiment, as an example of the threshold angle providing means, an example will be described in which the RAM 23 is made to function as a threshold angle storage means.

The waiting time value referenced in the movement speed alarm process is used to notify the user when the pulse emitting means emits pulse light if the elapsed time from the previous pulse light emission is smaller than this waiting time value. is the value of In this embodiment, the waiting time value is 0.1 seconds.

When performing pulsed light emission, there are circuit constraints to supply the large amount of power necessary to make the xenon tube 56 emit light, and there are safety constraints on the number of irradiations per unit time. A predetermined interval time is required as the light emission interval.

In the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, a waiting time value defines this predetermined interval time, and this waiting time value is a moving speed alarm that warns the user when the moving speed is too fast. Referenced by means.

Although the irradiation window has reached the position where pulsed light emission should be performed in continuous light emission mode, for example, if the movement speed is too fast and the electrical preparations are not complete, or if the light should not be emitted for safety reasons, the previous If a time less than the waiting time value has elapsed since the pulse emission, it is determined that the moving speed is inappropriate and a warning is issued to the practitioner.

The movement distance conversion coefficient is a coefficient used to calculate the movement distance on the hair removal target area with respect to the movement amounts ΔX, ΔY of the irradiation window 57 supplied from the movement detection unit 58, the accumulated movement amount, etc. be. This movement distance conversion coefficient may also be configured to be stored in a predetermined storage area provided within the handpiece 5, similarly to the threshold angle α.

Further, at a predetermined address in the RAM 23, a mode value indicating the current mode, an accumulated moving distance in the X-axis direction, an accumulated moving distance in the Y-axis direction, a moving angle θ, and a continuous light emission flag are stored. The mode value takes a value of "0" in standby mode, "1" in single emission mode, and "2" in continuous emission mode. In addition, the cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction and the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction are converted into movement distances ΔX and ΔY of the irradiation window 57 supplied from the movement detection unit 58 from the immediately previous pulsed light emission position to the current position. This is the integrated value obtained by multiplying by a coefficient. The movement angle θ is determined by the movement direction of the irradiation window 57 in the hair removal area coordinate system from the immediately previous pulsed light emission position to the current position, and the X axis of the hair removal area coordinate system (for example, at the previous pulsed light emission position or the current position). ) is the angle formed by the X axis of In addition, the continuous light emission flag is a flag that indicates whether or not light should be emitted automatically in the continuous light emission mode.If the first pulse light emission has not yet been performed, it takes an OFF value, and the first pulse light emission flag is set to OFF. is performed and the irradiation button is held down to continuously and automatically emit light, the value is ON.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 2 includes an operation panel 30, a movement detection unit 58, a first irradiation button 51, and a second irradiation button 52 as an input system configuration, and a display panel 33 and an output system configuration. A Peltier unit 61, a water pump 63, a speaker 41, a xenon tube 56, a display 53, and an irradiation counter 54 are electrically connected, and are referenced or controlled depending on the execution status of the program in the control unit 2. It consists of These input/output system configurations are driven and controlled via each part drive circuit 24 as necessary.

For example, data on the movement amounts ΔX and ΔY of the irradiation window 57 supplied from the movement detection section 58 are sequentially stored in the predetermined addresses of the RAM 23 described above.

Further, information input by the user by operating each button on the display panel 33 is also sequentially stored in a predetermined address of the RAM 23. For example, information indicating that the emergency stop button 31 was pressed, information indicating that a predetermined mode was selected using the MODE button 34, information on the light emission intensity specified using the SELECT button 36, etc. are stored.

Further, information about the user's operation of the first irradiation button 51 and the second irradiation button 52 is also sequentially stored in a predetermined address of the RAM 23.

Next, the processing executed in the control unit 2 will be explained with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the main processing of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment. In addition, in the main processing, processing that controls the entire device, such as operation control of the optical hair removal device K and user operation response, is also executed, but here, processing for executing continuous light emission mode and single light emission mode are also executed. The explanation will focus on the processing to be executed, and the explanation on various other processing will be omitted.

In the main process, the CPU 21 of the control unit 2 first executes initialization processes such as permission to access the RAM 23 and initialization of the work area (step S11). Specifically, the value of the mode value is set to "0" for standby mode, and the values of the cumulative travel distance in the X-axis direction, the cumulative travel distance in the Y-axis direction, and the travel angle θ are each reset to "0". Further, in this step, the CPU 21 causes the xenon tube 56 to start emitting shimmer light via the unit drive circuit 24.

Next, the CPU 21 executes various processes for realizing various functions of the optical hair removal device K (step S12). For example, in these various processes, a predetermined address in the RAM 23 is referred to, and the process is performed in response to pressing the emergency stop button 31 or selecting a mode using the MODE button 34. If it is determined that the emergency stop button 31 has been pressed, the mode value is set to "0", which is the standby mode, and exits from other modes. Further, when the MODE button 34 is pressed, the value is changed to a mode value corresponding to the mode of the pressed button.

Moreover, in this step S12, driving of the cooling unit 6 is started. That is, the CPU 21 drives the water pump 63 via the unit drive circuit 24 and operates the Peltier unit 61 to circulate and cool the cooling water.

After completing step S12, the CPU 21 next executes a single light emission mode execution process (step S13). The single light emission mode execution process is for not causing the light source to emit light unless there is a predetermined input operation by the user, and causing the light source to emit pulse light when there is the input operation to form an irradiated area singly. The details will be explained later with reference to FIG. 6. Note that by executing the single-emission mode execution process in step S13, the control unit 2 functions as a single-emission mode execution means of the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment.

Next, the CPU 21 executes continuous light emission mode execution processing in step S14. In the continuous light emission mode execution process, the user moves the irradiation window 57 during parallel or oblique movement irradiation work, and when the irradiation target area reaches a circumscribed position with the previously irradiated area, the xenon tube 56 is automatically turned on. This is a process for emitting pulsed light from the irradiation window 57 to form a continuous irradiated area on the hair removal target area, and the details will be explained later with reference to FIG. 7. Note that the control unit 2 functions as continuous light emission mode execution means of the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment by executing the continuous light emission mode execution process in step S14.

Next, the CPU 21 executes acoustic notification processing (step S15). Specifically, the mode value stored in a predetermined address of the RAM 23 is referred to, and the sound corresponding to the current mode is reproduced from the speaker 41. This sound is not particularly limited as long as it is a sound that allows the user to distinguish the current mode; for example, it may be an electronic sound or sound effect such as "beep" or "beep", or an environmental sound such as a bird chirping. It may be a sound or a predetermined piece of music may be used. Note that by executing this acoustic notification process, the control unit 2 functions as a notification means of the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment. After completing this step S14, the CPU 21 returns the process to step S12.

Next, the single light emission mode execution process in step S13 will be described with reference to FIG.

In the single flash mode execution process, the CPU 21 first refers to a predetermined address in the RAM 23 and determines whether the mode value is 1, that is, whether the single flash mode is selected (step S21). If it is determined that the mode value is not 1 (step S21: No), the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode value is 1 (step S21: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S22.

In step S22, the CPU 21 refers to a predetermined address in the RAM 23 and determines whether either the first irradiation button 51 or the second irradiation button 52 has been pressed. If it is determined that the irradiation button is not pressed (step S22: No), the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the irradiation button has been pressed (step S22: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S23.

In step S23, the CPU 21 performs pulse light emission processing. Specifically, with reference to the RAM 23, the xenon tube 56 is caused to emit light via the section drive circuit 24 at the emitted light intensity and pulse width designated by the user. After completing this step S23, the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process.

Next, the continuous light emission mode execution process in step S14 will be explained with reference to FIG.

In the continuous light emission mode execution process, the CPU 21 first refers to a predetermined address in the RAM 23 and determines whether the mode value is 2, that is, whether the continuous light emission mode is selected (step S31). If it is determined that the mode value is not 2 (step S31: No), the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode value is 2 (step S31: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S32.

In step S32, the CPU 21 refers to a predetermined address in the RAM 23 and determines whether either the first irradiation button 51 or the second irradiation button 52 has been pressed. If it is determined that the irradiation button is not pressed (step S32: No), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S33.

In step S33, the CPU 21 resets the cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction and the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction stored in a predetermined address of the RAM 23, and turns off the value of the continuous light emission flag. After completing this step S33, the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S32 that the irradiation button has been pressed (step S32: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S34.

In step S34, the CPU 21 refers to the RAM 23 and determines whether the value of the continuous light emission flag is ON. If it is determined that the value of the continuous light emission flag is not ON (step S34: No), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S35.

In step S35, the CPU 21 performs pulsed light emission processing. Specifically, with reference to the RAM 23, the xenon tube 56 is caused to emit light via the section drive circuit 24 at the emitted light intensity and pulse width designated by the user. Note that when the value of the continuous light emission flag is OFF, the value of the continuous light emission flag is set to ON. Further, in this step S35, if the value of the continuous light emission flag is ON, the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction and the cumulative moving distance in the Y-axis direction are reset. After completing this step S35, the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S34 that the value of the continuous light emission flag is ON (step S34: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S36.

In step S36, the CPU 21 acquires the values of ΔX and ΔY from the movement detection unit 58 stored in a predetermined address of the RAM 23, refers to the movement distance conversion coefficient, and adds the difference movement distance to the original cumulative movement distance. Then, the cumulative travel distance in the X-axis direction and the cumulative travel distance in the Y-axis direction are calculated.

In step S36, the CPU 21 moves the irradiation window 57 in the hair removal area coordinate system from the immediately previous pulsed light emission position, which is the origin, to the current position, based on the cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction and the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction. The angle θ between the direction and the X-axis of the hair removal area coordinate system (for example, the X-axis at the immediately previous pulsed light emission position or the current position) is calculated.

Next, the CPU 21 refers to the threshold angle α stored at a predetermined address in the RAM 23 (step S37), and moves the process to step S38.

In step S38, the CPU 21 determines whether the angle θ is within the range of 0°≦θ≦α. If it is determined that the angle θ is within the range of 0°≦θ≦α (step S38: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S39.

In step S39, the CPU 21 compares the pre-stored value of ΔX obtained by the previous execution of step S36 with the value of ΔX obtained by the current execution of step S36, and determines that the sign of ΔX is reversed. That is, in the case of a positive value, it is determined whether the value is negative, and in the case of a negative value, it is determined whether the value is positive. If it is determined that the signs are reversed (step S39: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S40.

In step S40, the CPU 21 sets the mode value to 1 indicating the single emission mode, and also indicates that the irradiation window 57 has been moved in the opposite direction to the direction in which it has been moving, in other words, the handpiece 5 The user is notified that the image has been scanned in the reverse direction. Note that this notification may be performed audibly using sound, or visually using a display, or both may be performed simultaneously. When using sound, it can be performed via the speaker 41 provided on the device main body 1 or the hand piece 5, and when using display, it can be performed via the display panel 33 or indicator 53. After completing this step S40, the CPU 21 moves the process to step S33.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S39 that the signs are not reversed (step S39: No), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S41.

In step S41, the CPU 21 refers to the value of the length B in the longitudinal direction of the irradiation window 57 (for example, B = 20 mm in this embodiment) stored in the RAM 23 or the storage means provided in the handpiece 5, A determination is made as to whether the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction calculated in step S36 is equal to or greater than length B. Here, if it is determined that the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction is not longer than length B (step S41: No), the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction is greater than or equal to the length B (step S41: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S42.

In step S42, the CPU 21 refers to the waiting time value stored in the RAM 23 and determines whether the elapsed time since the previous pulse emission has exceeded the waiting time value. Here, if it is determined that the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the waiting time value (step S42: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S35. On the other hand, if it is determined that the elapsed time is not equal to or greater than the waiting time value (step S42: No), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S43.

In step S43, the CPU 21 issues and alerts the user that the moving speed is too fast. This notification may also be made audibly by sound or visually by display, similar to the notification to the effect that movement has been made in the opposite direction in step S40 described above. It is also possible to do it simultaneously. After completing this step S43, the CPU 21 moves the process to the main process.

Here, returning to the explanation of step S38 mentioned above, if it is determined in step S38 that the angle θ is not within the range of 0°≦θ≦α (step S38: No), the CPU 21 advances the process to step S44. Move.

In step S44, the CPU 21 determines whether the angle θ is within the range α<θ≦90°. If it is determined that the angle θ is not within the range of α<θ≦90° (step S44: No), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S33. On the other hand, if it is determined that the angle θ is within the range of α<θ≦90° (step S44: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S45.

In step S45, the CPU 21 compares the pre-stored value of ΔY obtained by the previous execution of step S36 with the value of ΔY obtained by the current execution of step S36, and determines that the sign of ΔY is reversed. That is, if it is a positive value, it is determined whether it is negative, and if it is a negative value, it is determined whether it is positive. If it is determined that the signs are reversed (step S45: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S40. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S45 that the signs are not reversed (step S45: No), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S46.

In step S46, the CPU 21 refers to the value of the length A in the width direction of the irradiation window 57 (for example, A=60 mm in this embodiment) stored in the RAM 23 or the storage means provided in the handpiece 5, and performs step S46. A determination is made as to whether or not the cumulative moving distance in the Y-axis direction calculated in S36 is greater than or equal to length A. Here, if it is determined that the cumulative moving distance in the Y-axis direction is not longer than the length A (step S46: No), the CPU 21 returns the process to the main process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the cumulative moving distance in the Y-axis direction is equal to or greater than the length A (step S46: Yes), the CPU 21 moves the process to step S42.

Next, the operation of the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment having such a configuration will be explained with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11.

The user first inserts a key into the key switch 32 provided in the operating section 3 of the main body 1 of the optical hair removal device K and rotates the key. In accordance with this, initial settings are performed in the control unit 2 in step S11, and the optical hair removal device K is activated in standby mode.

Next, the user selects a desired mode for hair removal treatment. For example, when the B button of the MODE button 34 is pressed to select the single flash mode, the single flash mode execution process in step S13 is executed, so that the control unit 2 functions as a single flash mode execution means, and the user Pulsed light is emitted from the irradiation window 57 every time the first or second irradiation button is pressed at an arbitrary timing.

In addition, when the user presses the A button of the MODE button 34 to select the continuous light emission mode during hair removal treatment, the continuous light emission mode execution process of step S14 is executed, causing the control unit 2 to execute the continuous light emission mode. It functions as a means.

Based on the information from the movement detection unit 58 accompanying the linear movement of the irradiation window 57 facing the hair removal target area along the surface direction of the hair removal target area, the irradiation target area is determined to be the previous irradiated area. The xenon tube 56 emits pulses at the position of the circumscribed irradiation window 57 to form a continuous irradiated region V in the moving direction, thereby promoting hair removal.

In addition, when the control section 2 executes the continuous light emission mode execution process, it functions as a movement distance/angle calculation means by executing step S36, and based on ΔX and ΔY supplied from the movement detection section 58, the immediately preceding pulse The angle θ formed by the moving direction of the irradiation window 57 in the hair removal area coordinate system from the light emission position to the current position and the X axis of the same coordinate system, and the cumulative movement in the X-axis direction and Y-axis direction in the hair removal area coordinate system The distance is calculated.

Further, in the optical hair removal device K equipped with a rectangular irradiation window having a length B in the X-axis direction and A in the Y-axis direction of the hair removal area coordinate system, the RAM 23 stores [90°-{arctan (B/A)}°] A predetermined angle within the range of ±5° is memorized. For example, in the optical hair removal device K according to this embodiment, since A=60 mm and B=20 mm, [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°]±5° is in the range of 66.6° to 76.5°. The threshold angle α is set to 70.5°, which is also the value of {arccos(B/A)}° rounded to the second decimal place, and by storing this value, it functions as a threshold angle storage means. Note that the calculation process up to calculating this threshold angle α may be implemented in the optical hair removal device K, or only the value may be stored in the optical hair removal device K after being calculated in advance. In other words, in the present application, when automatically emitting pulsed light from a photoepilator, even if the angle formed between the short side of the irradiation window and the direction of movement is increased, the pulsed light emission is automatically performed at a position circumscribing the previously irradiated area. The present invention also proposes a method and means for calculating an angle that is a reference for irradiating pulsed light onto a target area, a means for providing a threshold angle, and the like.

Then, after referring to the threshold angle α in step S37, steps S38, S44, S41, and S46 are executed, and step S35 is executed when each condition is met, so that the angle θ is 0°≦ If θ≦threshold angle α, the xenon tube 56 emits pulses if the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction is B or more, and if the angle θ is threshold angle α<θ≦90°, it moves in the Y-axis direction. If the cumulative moving distance is equal to or greater than A, a pulse light emitting means for causing the xenon tube 56 to emit pulse light is realized.

Here, we will discuss this in more detail with reference to the drawings. First, as shown in FIG. 8, the irradiation window 57 of the handpiece 5 is placed opposite to the arm of the patient G, and while the handpiece 5 is moved in the extension direction of the arm Gr, the irradiation window 57 is placed opposite the arm of the patient G. Assume that an oblique moving irradiation work is performed with a tilt angle θ.

In such a case, if the angle θ is 30°, for example, 0°≦θ≦70.5° (threshold angle α), so as shown in FIG. 9(a), from the irradiated area U10 of the irradiation window 57 The cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction related to movement to the irradiation target area T11 will be explained by showing a reference point for easy understanding. The cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction corresponding to Mb11, which is the X-axis direction component in the hair removal area coordinate system of the distance and direction vector M11 when moving from the position P10 to the reference point P11 of the irradiation target area T11, is the irradiation target area T11. When the length B in the longitudinal direction of the window 57 is 20 mm, it becomes a circumscribed position, and pulse emission is performed at the position of the irradiation target area T11 which is 20 mm or more (for example, about 20 mm to 25 mm), and by repeating this process. A continuous irradiated region V is formed. Therefore, the hair removal work is performed with a width of effective irradiation width=Acosθ=60mm×cos30°≈52mm. Note that the orthogonal arrows shown along the sides of the irradiated region U10 in FIG. The X and Y axes of the system are shown.

Further, even when the angle θ is set to 60°, for example, in order to narrow the width of the region Q to be depilated, in other words, to narrow the effective irradiation width, it is generally the same as the above-mentioned case of 30°. That is, since 0°≦θ≦70.5° (threshold angle α), as shown in FIG. 9(b), the X When the cumulative moving distance in the axial direction (Mb13) reaches 20 mm, which is the length B in the longitudinal direction of the irradiation window 57, it becomes a circumscribed position, and pulsed light emission is performed at the position of the irradiation target area T13 where the distance is 20 mm or more. By repeating this process, a continuously irradiated region V is formed. Therefore, the hair removal work is performed with a width of effective irradiation width=Acosθ=60mm×cos60°=30mm.

Here, in order to further narrow the effective irradiation width, if the angle θ is set to [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°], for example, in this embodiment, [90°-{arctan(B/A)} [°]≈71.6°, as shown in FIG. 10A, the tip corner of the irradiated region U14 on the moving direction side is circumscribed by the diagonal corner of the irradiation target region T15.

Therefore, if the angle θ is larger than [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°] (here, 71.6°), the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction will be the length of the irradiation window 57. Even if the size B is 20 mm, it cannot be circumscribed, and the cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction (Mb15) is ) is small and errors are likely to occur. However, the effect of pulsed light on hair removal varies to some extent depending on the intensity of the irradiated light and the condition of the skin.

Therefore, in the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, with respect to the angle represented by [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°], based on the long experience of the present inventors in hair removal, ±5° The threshold angle α is defined as a value within a range having a width of .

Further, in the present invention, in particular, when the angle θ is in the range of α<θ≦90°, which is larger than the threshold angle α, by executing steps S44 and S46, the cumulative moving distance in the Y-axis direction is reduced to 57. If the length A in the width direction is 60 mm or more, the xenon tube 56 is caused to emit pulsed light.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(b), when the threshold angle α is 70.5°, which is adopted as the value of the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, and the angle θ is, for example, 80°, , as shown in FIG. 10(b), the cumulative movement distance (Ma17) in the Y-axis direction related to the movement (M17) of the irradiation window 57 from the irradiated area U16 to the irradiation target area T17 is equal to the width of the irradiation window 57. When the length A in the direction is 60 mm, it becomes a circumscribed position, and pulse light emission is performed at the position of the irradiation target region T17 which is 60 mm or more, and by repeating this, a continuous irradiated region V is formed. At this time, according to the concept of the effective irradiation width described above, the hair removal operation is performed with a width of effective irradiation width=Bsinθ=20mm×sin80°≈19.7mm.

In particular, when the angle θ is 90°, as shown in FIG. 11, the cumulative moving distance in the X-axis direction (Mb19) related to the movement of the irradiation window 57 from the irradiated area U18 to the irradiation target area T19 (M19) becomes 0, and thus it was difficult for conventional photoepilators to determine the circumscribed position and to perform appropriate pulse irradiation. However, according to the photoepilator K according to the present embodiment, α<θ In the case of ≦90°, pulse light emission should be performed at the position of the irradiation target area T19 where the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction (Ma19) is 60 mm or more, which is the length A in the width direction of the irradiation window 57. Therefore, it is possible to form an irradiated region by emitting pulsed light at a correct circumscribed position, and by repeating this process, it is possible to form a continuous irradiated region V. At this time, the hair removal work is performed with an effective irradiation width=Bsinθ=20mm×sin90°=20mm.

Further, as a feature of the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, in the continuous light emission mode execution process executed in step S14, by executing step S38 and step S39, when the angle θ is 0°≦θ≦α, is configured so that when the sign of ΔX is reversed from the sign of ΔX within the previous minute time, step S40 is executed to shift to the single light emission mode, and the user is notified to that effect. There is.

Furthermore, by executing step S44 and step S45, if the angle θ is α<θ≦90°, even if the sign of ΔY is reversed with respect to the sign of ΔY within the previous minute time, step S40 is executed. The system is configured to execute this, shift to the single light emission mode, and notify the user of this fact.

In this way, the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment realizes a redundant irradiation suppressing means, and according to this, when the practitioner moves the handpiece in the opposite direction to the previous movement direction, continuous irradiation is performed. Since the light emitting mode is shifted to the single light emitting mode, it is possible to provide an optical hair removal device that allows safer treatment. In particular, a duplicate irradiation suppressing means that functions even when the angle θ is 0° (parallel irradiation work) or 90° is realized.

Further, in the present invention, by executing the acoustic notification process in step S15 in the main process, a notification means is realized that notifies the user of the current status of the optical hair removal device K, such as the mode in use, by sound. The user does not need to visually check the current situation, etc., and can concentrate on the treatment. In this embodiment, the notification means is performed by sound through the speaker 41, but the notification is not limited to this as long as the user can know the current status of the optical hair removal device K. For example, it is possible to configure the notification means by using light or vibration, or by using these in combination. In particular, in the case of notification using light, the current status of the photoepilation device K can be informed to the user by associating the status of the photoepilation device K with the emitted light color, or by notifying the user with light through a configuration such as a predetermined indicator. can be accurately understood.

Further, in the present invention, in the continuous light emission mode execution process executed in step S14, by executing step S42, the elapsed time from the previous pulsed light emission is less than or equal to a predetermined time, that is, less than or equal to a predefined waiting time value. In this case, the movement speed warning means is constructed so as to execute step S43 before the pulse emission process performed in step S35 to notify the user of a movement speed warning.

Therefore, it is possible to secure the time required for the optical epilator to be in a state where it can emit pulsed light, and to perform a reliable treatment.

As described above, according to the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, the irradiation window that emits pulsed light from the light source and the movement of the irradiation window along the surface direction of the surface of the hair removal target area are detected. The irradiation window is moved based on information from the movement detection means that transmits information on the amount of movement, and the movement detection means accompanying the linear movement of the irradiation window facing the hair removal target area along the surface direction. Once the pulsed light is emitted, the light source is pulsed at a position of the irradiation window where the area on the surface of the area to be irradiated circumscribes the previous irradiated area, and the irradiated area is continuously covered in the moving direction. a control unit comprising a continuous light emitting mode execution means formed in a direction to promote hair removal in the irradiated area, wherein the irradiation window is arranged in orthogonal two-dimensional coordinates assumed to be on the surface of the hair removal target area. The system has a rectangular shape with a length B in the X-axis direction and a length A in the Y-axis direction, and the continuous light emission mode execution means is configured to perform the following in the coordinate system within a predetermined minute time supplied from the movement detection means. Based on the information on the amount of movement in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, the angle θ formed by the movement direction of the irradiation window in the coordinate system from the immediately previous pulsed light emission position to the current position and the X-axis of the same coordinate system and a movement distance/angle calculation means for calculating the cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction and Y-axis direction in the coordinate system, and a threshold that is [90°-{arctan(B/A)}°]±5°. threshold angle providing means for providing an angle α; and when the angle θ is 0°≦θ≦α, if the cumulative moving distance in the is α<θ≦90°, and if the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction is equal to or greater than A, the light source is provided with a pulse light emitting means that causes the light source to emit pulse light, so that oblique movement irradiation work is performed. Even when the handpiece tilt (the angle between the short side of the irradiation window and the direction of movement) is increased, the pulsed light can be automatically irradiated at a position circumscribing the previously irradiated area. equipment can be provided.

Finally, the description of each embodiment mentioned above is an example of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. Therefore, it goes without saying that various changes can be made to the embodiments other than those described above, depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not depart from the technical idea of the present invention.

For example, in the optical hair removal device K according to the present embodiment, the movement detection section 58 employs an optical mouse sensor, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it goes without saying that the movement detection section 58 may be configured by a combination of a ball and a rotary encoder, such as in a ball mouse. That is, as long as the movement detection section 58 can detect the movement of the irradiation window and provide information such as ΔX and ΔY to the control section 2, its configuration can be appropriately selected based on known techniques.

1 Apparatus body 2 Control section 5 Handpiece 21 CPU
22 ROM
23 RAM
24 Drive circuit for each part 34 MODE button 41 Speaker 51 First irradiation button 52 Second irradiation button 53 Display 55 Irradiation section 56 Xenon tube 57 Irradiation window 58 Movement detection section A Length B Length ΔX, ΔY Movement amount α Threshold angle θ Angle K Optical hair removal device Q Hair removal target area T Irradiation target area U Irradiated area V Continuously irradiated area

Claims (2)

an irradiation window that emits pulsed light from a light source;
movement detection means for detecting movement of the irradiation window along the surface direction of the surface of the hair removal target area and transmitting information on the amount of movement;
If pulsed light is emitted from the irradiation window, it is irradiated based on information from the movement detection means accompanying linear movement of the irradiation window facing the hair removal target area along the surface direction. The light source emits pulses at a position of the irradiation window where an area on the surface of the area to be removed is circumscribed with the immediately previous irradiated area, and an irradiated area is continuously formed in the moving direction to promote hair removal in the irradiated area. a control unit equipped with continuous light emission mode execution means;
In a photo epilator having
The irradiation window has a rectangular shape having a length B in the X-axis direction and A in the Y-axis direction of an orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system assumed on the surface of the hair removal target area,
The continuous light emission mode execution means is configured to detect the immediately preceding pulsed light based on the information on the amount of movement in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system within a predetermined minute time supplied from the movement detection means. An angle θ formed by the moving direction of the irradiation window in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system from the emission position to the current position and the X-axis of the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system, and the X-axis direction and Y in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system. moving distance/angle calculating means for calculating the cumulative moving distance in the axial direction;
Threshold angle providing means for providing a threshold angle α within the range of [90°-[arctan(B/A)]°]±5°;
When the angle θ is 0°≦θ≦α, the light source emits pulse light if the cumulative movement distance in the X-axis direction is B or more, and when the angle θ is α<θ≦90°, pulsed light emitting means for causing the light source to emit pulsed light if the cumulative movement distance in the Y-axis direction is A or more,
The control unit executes a single light emission mode in which the light source does not emit light unless there is a predetermined input operation by the user, and when the input operation is performed, the light source causes the light source to emit pulse light to instantly form an irradiated area. It is equipped with the means;
When the angle θ is 0°≦θ≦α, the continuous light emission mode execution means determines the amount of movement in the X-axis direction in the orthogonal two-dimensional coordinate system within the minute time, and the angle θ is α<θ≦ In the case of 90°, if the sign of the amount of movement in the Y-axis direction is reversed with respect to the sign of the amount of movement in the same axial direction within the previous minute time, execution of the single light emission mode execution means is started. A photo-epilator characterized by comprising means for suppressing redundant irradiation. A claim characterized in that, when the light source emits pulsed light, if the elapsed time from the previous pulsed emission is less than a predetermined time, the moving speed alarm means is provided to notify the user before the pulsed emission by the pulsed light emitting means. Item 1. The photoepilation device according to item 1 .

Images