WO2019220439A1 - High intensity light treatment - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus, system and method for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment. An apparatus comprising: a transparent attachment shield; an imaging device for acquiring images through a sightline crossing said transparent attachment shield; a light guide for delivering HIL to the target through a sightline crossing said transparent attachment shield; and a robotic motion device for moving said light guide and said imaging device with respect to the transparent attachment shield. A method comprising performing a plurality of times: (i) selecting, based on an image, a target for HIL treatment; (ii) determining, based on a location of the target in the image, a location for performing the HIL treatment; (iii) positioning a light guide to be directed at the location; and (iv) activating an HIL source that is coupled with the light guide, whereby applying HIL at the location to perform the HIL treatment of the target.

Description

HIGH INTENSITY LIGHT TREATMENT

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 62/671,436, entitled APPARATUS FOR HIGH INTENSITY LIGHT TREATMENT AND METHOD THEREOF, filed May 15, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety without giving rise to disavowment.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure is in the field of robotic devices. More specifically, the presently disclosed subject matter is in the field of robotic devices for high spatial accuracy in intensive light-based treatments.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Robots are often being used in the medical industry inter alia in applications including assisting surgeons during surgical procedures. Robots are especially suited for some surgical tasks because they can be very steady, computer controlled, and precise in their movements. Such characteristics can be especially helpful, for example, during procedures for aesthetic or medical purposes.

[0004] Hair removal may be the process of removing unwanted hair. In some cases, exposure to pulses of light that destroy the hair follicle may be employed. Laser or other high intensity light hair removal may be practiced in clinics, and even at homes, using devices designed and priced for consumer self-treatment. The primary principle behind hair removal may be selective photothermolysis, the matching of a specific wavelength of light and of a specific pulse duration to obtain optimal effect on a targeted tissue with minimal effect on surrounding tissue. High intensity treatment device, such as laser-based treatment devices, can be selective, in that it can cause more heat damage upon heating dark target matter, melanin, in the area responsible for hair growth, the follicle, than upon heating the rest of the skin. Since light absorbance by dark objects is more effective than by bright ones, laser energy can be absorbed by dark material in the skin, rapidly and intensively. Dark target matter, or chromophore, can be naturally-occurring or artificially introduced.

[0005] Epidermal cooling has been determined to allow higher fluences and reduce pain and side effects, especially in darker skin. In some exemplary embodiments, fluence may be the radiant energy received by a surface per unit area, or equivalently the irradiance of a surface integrated over time of irradiation. Fluence may be measured in joules per square centimeter (J/cm²). It is important to treat at a fluence setting high enough to heat up the follicles sufficiently for disabling their hair production capability.

[0006] In some exemplary embodiments, some side effects may occur following hair removal treatments by high intensity light. Expectable side effects may include itching, pink skin, redness, swelling around the treatment area, or the like. Less expectable side effects may include more serious side effects such as acne development and skin discoloration.

[0007] In some exemplary embodiments, hair removal by means of selective photothermolysis does not require focused light. It means that high intensity light of either a laser or of other light source, may homogenously irradiate an entire skin portion, yet affecting thermolysis solely, or at least mainly, at hair follicles. However, such means may be restricted to the use for removal dark colored hairs. Removal of gray or light-colored hairs may demand higher energy that may produce more undesirable side effects.

SUMMARY

[0008] One aspect of the disclosed subject matter may be an apparatus for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment, the apparatus comprising: a transparent attachment shield to be immovably maintained during the light-based treatment adjacently to a treatment area in which at least one target to be treated is located; an imaging device for acquiring images from the treatment area through a sightline crossing said transparent attachment shield; a light guide for delivering HIL from an HIL source to the target through a sightline crossing said transparent attachment shield, whereby providing HIL treatment to the target, wherein said light guide is configured to deliver the HIL at a spot having an area of no more than 0.5 square millimeters; and a robotic motion device for moving said light guide and said imaging device with respect to the transparent attachment shield, whereby the treatment area can be scanned by moving said light guide and said imaging device thereby acquiring images for recognizing locations of targets with respect to said transparent attachment shield, and providing HIL treatment for each target based on the recognized location thereof.

[0009] Optionally, said transparent attachment shield is removably connectible to a body of the apparatus as a part of a replaceable unit, whereby facilitating to treat patients with new sterile unit per each treatment session for improving treatment safety.

[0010] Optionally, said light guide comprises a plurality of optical fibers.

[0011] Optionally, said light guide comprises an axial group of one or more optical fibers and one or more peripheral groups of one or more optical fibers; wherein said axial group coincides with or extends parallel to a common longitudinal axis of said light guide; wherein each peripheral group of said one or more peripheral groups extends angularly to the common longitudinal axis in a predetermined angle; and wherein the one or more peripheral groups are configured to extend in such angles and positions that light rays emitted from the ends of their optical fibers coincide at a focal point on the common longitudinal axis at a predetermined distance from a bottom plane of said light guide, wherein the bottom plane is transversely to the common longitudinal axis.

[0012] Optionally, the apparatus comprises at least a second set of one or more peripheral groups of one or more optical fibers, wherein each peripheral group of the second set extends angularly to the common longitudinal axis in a second predetermined angle and position such that once light rays are emitted from the ends of the optical fibers of the second set they coincide at a second focal point on the common longitudinal axis at a second predetermined distance from the bottom plane of said light guide.

[0013] Optionally, said light guide comprises a truncated conus fibers construction, wherein the truncated conus fibers construction extends along an enveloping surface of a conical shape.

[0014] Optionally, said light guide ends at an invariable distance from said transparent attachment shield, wherein the invariable distance is maintained upon activation of said robotic motion device.

[0015] Optionally, said robotic motion device comprises a rotational and axial motion mechanism having two degrees of freedom.

[0016] Optionally, said transparent attachment shield is tubular, having a predetermined external diameter configured for maintaining said transparent attachment shield immovable with respect to a substantially tubular area to be treated from inside.

[0017] Optionally, the substantially tubular area is one of: a nostril and a blood vessel, wherein the transparent attachment shield is configured in size and shape to be inserted into the nostril or the blood vessel.

[0018] Optionally, said light guide extends along a cylindrical body, the cylindrical body is both rotatable and axially movable within said tubular transparent attachment shield by said robotic motion device, wherein said light guide ends in front of a diagonally disposed mirror located near a distal end of the cylindrical body, the diagonally disposed mirror is configured to redirect HIL emitted from the end of said light guide axially, to propagate through a window in an outer wall of the cylindrical body and across said tubular transparent attachment shield.

[0019] Optionally, the cylindrical body comprises a second diagonally disposed mirror configured to redirect light propagating axially from the diagonally disposed mirror, to propagate in a direction of said imaging device, wherein said imaging device having a sightline angled to a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body. [0020] Optionally, said transparent attachment shield is planar, wherein said apparatus further comprises a fixation by suction system for maintaining said attachment shield immovable with respect to the area to be treated.

[0021] Optionally, said robotic motion device is configured to provide exactly two degrees of freedom of motion, by an XY motion mechanism.

[0022] Another aspect of the disclosed subject matter may be a system for HIL treatment, the system comprising the apparatus, wherein said system further comprises: an HIL source coupled to said light guide; and a computerized controller for controlling said robotic motion device.

[0023] Optionally, the system further comprising: a fixation by suction system for maintaining said attachment shield immovable with respect to the area to be treated; and a vacuum pump in fluid communication with said fixation by suction system.

[0024] Optionally, said computerized controller is configured to: recognize targets to be treated based on analysis of images acquired by said imaging device; determine locations of the recognized targets; instruct said robotic motion device to position said light guide to be focused on each selected target; and activate the HIL source for a predetermined time period to direct the HIL at the selected target.

[0025] Yet another aspect of the disclosed subject matter may be a method for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment, the method comprising: performing a plurality of times: selecting a target for HIL treatment, wherein said selecting is based on an image of an area comprising a plurality of potential targets; determining a location for performing the HIL treatment, wherein the location is determined based on a location of the target in the image; positioning a light guide to be directed at the location; and activating an HIL source that is coupled with the light guide, whereby applying HIL at the location to perform the HIL treatment of the target.

[0026] Optionally, the target is at least one of a hair, a lesion, a skin area.

[0027] Optionally, said determining the location comprises estimating a location of an unexposed portion of the target, wherein the unexposed portion of the target is invisible in the image. [0028] Optionally, the light guide is a ferrule comprising a plurality of optical fibers.

[0029] Optionally, each of the plurality of optical fibers having ends that are located at a shared surface that constitutes an end of the light guide, wherein the plurality of optical fibers are positioned so as to cause light rays emitted from their respective ends to coincide at a focal point at a predetermined distance from the light guide, whereby each light ray emitted from an optical fiber is configured to pass through a different location at a surface that is parallel to the shared surface and located in between the shared surface and the focal point.

[0030] Optionally, said positioning comprises positioning the light guide so as to place the focal point below a skin surface, whereby said activating the HIL source provides an HIL treatment to a target located below the skin surface without injuring the skin surface.

[0031] Optionally, the method further comprising: prior to said performing a plurality of times, fixating a device to a skin and over a transparent attachment shield, wherein the device comprising the light guide; wherein said selecting, determining, positioning and activating are performed by the device.

[0032] Optionally, said activating causes the light guide to deliver HIL to the target through a sightline crossing the transparent attachment shield.

[0033] Optionally, the device comprising an imaging device, wherein said selecting is performed based on images captured by the imaging device.

[0034] Yet another aspect of the disclosed subject matter may be a method for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment, the method comprising; fixating a transparent attachment shield of an HIL treatment apparatus to a surface area in which treatment targets potentially exist; activating a computerized system for automatically controlling HIL treatment steps, the treatment steps comprise: (i) acquiring images from regions within the surface area by at least one robotically controlled camera; (ii) analyzing the images for recognizing target objects to be treated and their respective locations relatively to a reference location associated with the transparent attachment shield and constituting a reference location to a robotic motion mechanism by which motion of the camera is controlled; (iii) moving an HIL light guide into alignment with a location of a target object to be treated, by the robotic motion mechanism; (iv) delivering at least one predetermined dose of HIL from an HIL source to a target object location, through the light guide; and repeating steps (ii) to (iv) for a predetermined time period or until no additional target objects to be treated are recognized within a surface area intended to undergo HIL treatment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035] The presently disclosed subject matter will be understood and appreciated more fully from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in which corresponding or like numerals or characters indicate corresponding or like components. Unless indicated otherwise, the drawings provide exemplary embodiments or aspects of the disclosure and do not limit the scope of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0036] Figure 1 illustrates an enlarged view of a typical structure of a human hair and its surroundings, as a reference for a human hair region, exemplifying a target area including a target to be treated, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0037] Figure 2A illustrates schematics of an exemplary apparatus for HIE treatment, the apparatus comprising a planar transparent attachment shield attached by suction to a patient's skin, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0038] Figure 2B illustrates schematics of a disposable portion detached from the apparatus of Fig. 2A;

[0039] Figure 2C illustrates schematics of a light treatment device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0040] Figure 2D illustrates schematics of an imaging device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter;

[0041] Figure 3 A illustrates an isometric view of a fiber holder for use in various embodiments of the apparatus for HIE treatment according to the presently disclosed subject matter, the isometrics being taken from a top and side perspective;

[0042] Figure 3B illustrates an isometric view of the fiber holder of Fig. 3A, taken from a bottom and side perspective;

[0043] Figure 3C illustrates a side view of the fiber holder of Fig. 3 A; [0044] Figure 3D illustrates a bottom view of the fiber holder of Fig. 3A, with annotations relating to vertical cross sections taken at two different angles which are illustrated respectively by Figs 3E & 3F;

[0045] Figure 3E illustrates a vertical cross section view of the fiber holder of Fig. 3A, taken through line A-A of Fig. 3D;

[0046] Figure 3F illustrates a vertical cross section view of the fiber holder of Fig. 3A, taken through line B-B of Fig. 3D;

[0047] Figure 4A illustrates an isometric view of an apparatus for HIE treatment according to an embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter, taken from a top and side perspective;

[0048] Figure 4B illustrates an isometric view of the apparatus for HIE treatment of Fig. 4A, taken from a top and side perspective with the device positioned in an upside-down orientation;

[0049] Figure 5 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view taken through the longitudinal axis of anther embodiment of the apparatus according to the presently disclosed subject matter, having transparent attachment shield of a tubular design;

[0050] Figure 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method for HIE treatment, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter; and

[0051] Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart diagram of a method for HIE treatment, in accordance with some additional exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0052] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] One technical problem is to provide computer aided guidance for HIL treatment. Computer aided guidance is commonly used in surgery, to improve clinical outcome of treatment. Imaging guided robots are used in medical applications. Particularly, robots are used in orthopedic operations to assist surgeons. A robot may be attached to the body part which undergoes operation, to minimize unintentional motions between the body part and the robot. A robot in this case may include a guiding surgical treatment tool with allows for high precision. See for example US Patent Publication 2010/0198230, entitled "Miniature bone-attached surgical robot and method of use thereof", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes without giving rise to disavowment. However, a solution providing computer aided guidance for HIL treatment is yet to have been presented.

[0054] One technical problem dealt with by the presently disclosed subject matter, is to increase precision in operation or treatment using High Intensity Light (HIL). A method, an apparatus and a system for precise HIL treatments are disclosed as solutions. In some cases, it may be desired to focus HIL more intensively on a specific target, such as hair follicle, lesion, infected skin area, or the like or on the specific target and its immediate surroundings, rather than irradiate indifferently both follicle and skin between hairs.

[0055] Another technical problem with which may dealt with by the disclosed subject matter is the problem of side effects and/or skin damage that may be associated with HIL treatment. The disclosed solutions may enable hair removal without damaging the skin or causing other side effects.

[0056] Yet another technical problem is to provide an HIL treatment device which can deliver the focused HIL on (or near) follicles of many hairs with a high precision and stability independently of possible movements of a patient in the course of treatment.

[0057] Yet another technical problem is to provide for a means to provide HIL to a target located below the epidermal without injuring the epidermal. It may be desired to provide the epidermal itself or other skin portions with a radiant exposure below a predetermined threshold, on the one hand, while providing the sub-skin target with a radiant exposure above the predetermined threshold. In some cases, keeping the radiant exposure of the skin below the predetermined threshold may prevent undesirable side effects to the skin, while such exposure in itself may be insufficient to provide the desired result on the target. So, the sub-skin target is exposed to an increased irradiation, above the same threshold.

[0058] One technical solution of the presently disclosed subject matter includes a provision of an HIL hair removal system which is based on precision targeting, thus need not be based solely on selective photo thermolysis. In some embodiments of the system according to the presently disclosed subject matter, the system may be configured to target light to a desired point under the skin with high spatial accuracy. In the present disclosure, "high spatial accuracy" means a resolution of no more than 0.25 square millimeters, e.g. about 0.1 square millimeters, 2500 square micrometers, 900 square micrometers, 400 square micrometers, 100 square micrometers, or the like. It is noted that a system capable of targeting light at a desired surface of about 1 square millimeter or more, is considered as having "low spatial accuracy".

[0059] In some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, an apparatus for treatment of a portion of human skin (or other tissue, other subject, or the like), may be provided with a capability of precise delivery of focused HIL. The apparatus may comprise at least one HIL actuator for delivering focused HIL light rays, and a robotic motion system (referred to also herein as "robot") for precise mechanical manipulation of said HIL actuator. The apparatus may further comprise at least one attachment member configured to attach a base portion of the apparatus to the skin of the subject, e.g., patient. In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, when the attachment member is in use, motion of the patient body may cause corresponding motion of the apparatus as a whole, yet undesired relative motion between the HIL actuator and the skin region to be treated may be avoided due to the functioning of the attachment member in prevention of such relative motion. The robotic motion system can maneuver said HIL actuator to desired positions relatively to the treated skin, while the attachment member maintains immovability with respect to the target.

[0060] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the device may include a Computerized Visualization System (CVS). In some embodiments, the device may include a base member, and the CVS may be assembled on the base member. The CVS may be configured to perform automatic recognition of hair follicles (and/or of other objects of interest, e.g. objects posing interest from medical point of view, such as lesions, infected skin areas, or the like). Upon recognition of objects of interest, the CVS may determine, e.g. by calculation, positions of hair follicles relatively to an apparatus portion that is immovable with respect to the objects to be treated, e.g. the base member. The apparatus may be configured to perform automatic HIL treatment sessions with high spatial accuracy, following the calculation of a position of a target. For example, based on a recognition of a hair in the image, an estimated location of the hair follicle may be determined and the HIL actuator may be positioned so as to be aimed at the estimated location. HIL may be applied and the hair follicle may be irradiated by HIL. In some exemplary embodiments, robotic induced movement may be with a location resolution of no more than 100 micrometers, e.g., about 40 micrometers, about 20 micrometers, about 10 micrometers, or the like.

[0061] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the apparatus is configured to automatically recognize and determine locations of additional hair follicles intermittently between HIL treatment sessions of already recognized hair follicles.

[0062] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, recognition of a plurality of hair follicles and determination of their locations, may be performed in a preceding step involving no HIL treatment. A path to be followed by the HIL actuator may then be calculated for efficiency of treatment (e.g. in terms of time to be spent for completion of a treatment session, in terms of HIL energy consumption per a treatment session, in terms of average light intensity over time per a treatment session or in terms of any other treatment factor which can be considered influential on the efficiency of a treatment). The robotic motion system may then manipulate the HIL actuator to follow the path, to turn on the light source at a desired moment, i.e. when the HIL actuator is aimed at the hair follicle to be treated, to maintain the light on for a desired time period, to turn the light off for a desired time period, to maintain predetermined light intensities per respective time periods, and to maintain the HIL actuator either immovable or in a predetermined motion pattern (in terms of speeds, directions and changes thereof).

[0063] It is noted that the present disclosure focuses on the example of hair removal using HIL. However, the disclosed subject matter is not limited to such embodiment and different subjects may be irradiated using HIL, such as lesions, infected skin, blood vessels, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, the disclosed subject matter may be useful for performing medical procedures such as surgery using automated means. Additionally, or alternatively, the disclosed subject matter may be embodied in endoscopes used for medical procedures.

[0064] One technical effect of utilizing the disclosed subject matter may be to provide for an automated system that focuses light energy specifically at targets of interest. Energy may not be wasted on irrelevant subjects.

[0065] Another technical effect may be that selective photothermolysis need not be used. As a result, the disclosed subject matter may not be limited to specific types of subjects that stand out in their coloration from their background. As an example, gray and blonde hair may be treated efficiently. As another example, dark-skinned human subjects may be treated, without causing skin burns and other undesirable side effects.

[0066] Yet another technical effect may be the ability to automatically perform the HIL treatment using a robot instead of requiring human labor. By fixating the base portion of the device to a body to be treated, the device may become immovable. As a result, registration of the captured images with association to locations on the body to be treated may be accomplished to precisely and accurately move the HIL actuator to perform a desired HIL treatment. In some exemplary embodiments, body fixation and image registration on the body is accomplished by means of vacuum.

[0067] Yet another technical effect may be the ability to provide a device by limiting its complexity. As opposed to a naive solution which may provide six degrees of freedom, the disclosed subject matter may be limited with two degrees of freedom (e.g., XY, or one linear movement and one rotational movement), thereby providing a more simplified robotic device. However, due to the fixation of the device to the subject, and due to a constant distance between the end of the light guide and the surface of the subject (e.g., the skin of the human subject), such limited degrees of freedom may suffice to perform the HIL treatment. Additionally or alternatively, the fact that no depth motion is performed (e.g., axis Z remains fixated) may translate into a relatively less complicated computer vision problem, that can be solved efficiently using smaller, cheaper and lighter components, creating a device feasible both for manufacture and for usage.

[0068] The disclosed subject matter may provide for one or more technical improvements over any pre-existing technique and any technique that has previously become routine or conventional in the art. Additional technical problem, solution and effects may be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art in view of the present disclosure.

[0069] Referring now to Figure 1 showing an enlarged view of a typical structure of a human hair and its surroundings, as a reference for a human hair region to be treated in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0070] In some exemplary embodiments, the hair presented in Figure 1 may be a human hair intended for removal. The hair may be trimmed e.g. by scissors, by a shaver, by electrical hair trimmer, or the like, before starting the procedure of hair removal by precise HIL treatment according to the presently disclosed subject matter. A Shaft Section 101 structure of the human hair may remain protruding from above the skin, following the trimming, as a target for the HIL treatment.

[0071] In some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the precise HIL treatment may be directed to hair Shaft Section 101 comprising an Upper Portion 102 and a Lower Portion 103. Upper Portion 102 may be the exposed portion of Hair Shaft Section 101 that is above Skin 100, e.g., in air, and therefore visible. Lower Portion 103 may be the portion of Hair Shaft Section 101 that is located inside Skin 100. In some exemplary embodiments, Lower Portion 103 may be below the epidermis of Skin 100, within the dermis of Skin 100 or below thereof, or the like. Additionally or alternatively, Lower portion 103 may be subdermal. In some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, Lower Portion 103 may be assumed to comprise a substantially straight portion (i.e. a longitudinal portion extending along an imaginary straight axis).

[0072] In some exemplary embodiments, the point at which a Hair Shaft Section crosses (e.g., sticks out of) Skin Surface 104, is annotated P. [0073] In some exemplary embodiments, d may be a vector representing the direction of Lower Portion 103 of Hair Shaft Section 101.

[0074] Referring now to Figure 2A showing schematics of a high intensity light treatment apparatus, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0075] For simplicity of the presentation, right handed Cartesian coordinates systems may be defined. The S-reference system (SRS) may be defined as a coordinate system about which locations within a treatment region of a human tissue (including but not limited to skin) may be defined. An origin of the SRS reference system may be defined, for example, at a corner point near the treatment area. For example, the Z axis of SRS may coincide with Z axis origin 227 of an XY driving mechanism of the Actuator Reference System (ARS) of an HIL Actuator 211. Z axis of the SRS coordinate system may be substantially perpendicular to a surface of the treated object surface (e.g., Skin Surface 104 of Figure 1) at the point currently subjected to the HIL treatment. An XY plane may be defined perpendicular to the Z axis, and oriented as in a right handed Cartesian coordinates system.

[0076] In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus 200 may be utilized for HIL treatment of a portion of human skin.

[0077] In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus 200 may comprise a Robotic Motion Device 201. Robotic Motion Device 201 may be coupled to an HIL Actuator 211 for performing the HIL treatment. Robotic Motion Device 201 may further comprise a Base 207, a Robotic Motion System 217, and a Disposable Portion 218.

[0078] In some exemplary embodiments, Robotic Motion System 217 may comprise a two degrees of freedom XY motion mechanism, configured to move HIL Actuator 211 such that HIL Actuator Window 212 is slidable on Base Window 210. In some exemplary embodiments, Actuator Window 212 may be fixed within HIL Actuator 211, while a relative location of Base Window 210 may be modifiable with respect to HIL actuator 211 using Robotic Motion System 217. [0079] In some exemplary embodiments, Disposable Portion 218 may comprise an Attachment By Suction (ABS) Arrangement 208. ABS Arrangement 208 may comprise, as a top surface, a transparent attachment shield constituting Suction Attachment Window 209 of ABS Arrangement 208. A surrounding Side Wall 208s of ABS Arrangement 208 may be formed from deformable material such as rubber, silicone rubber, and the like, that can deform and follow the contour of the treatment surface area to which ABS Arrangement 208 is attached.

[0080] Fig. 2B illustrates Disposable Portion 218 detached from Apparatus 200 (and from a patient skin), with Surrounding Wall 208s in its undeformed state.

[0081] In some exemplary embodiments, the transparent attachment shield constituting the Suction Attachment Window 209, is configured to be immovably maintained during the treatment adjacently to a treatment area in which at least one target to be treated is included. In some exemplary embodiments, the treatment area may comprise a plurality of targets, such as dozens of hairs, hundreds of hairs, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, Suction Attachment Window 209 may be formed from a planar transparent plate. The plate can be made of glass, tempered glass, hardened glass, toughed glass, sapphire, or any transparent material with acceptable hardness and transparency properties. The plate may comprise an anti-scratch coating layer. The anti-scratch coating layer may be at its side intended to be facing the patient's skin. Additionally or alternatively, the anti-scratch coating layer may be at its side facing the HIL Actuator 211. Additionally, or alternatively, the plate may be made of a material with anti- reflective properties, so as improve efficiency and reduce energy loss due to reflection. ABS Arrangement 208, may be configured as removably connectible to Apparatus 200, and in some embodiments may be provided with disposability characteristics (in terms of durability, price, and adaptation for recycling processes), intended and/or recommended for one-time use.

[0082] ABS Arrangement 208 of Disposable Portion 218 may be in fluid communication with a Vacuum Pump 203, e.g. through a Vacuum Pipe 206. Vacuum may thus be generated between the patient skin surface (e.g., Skin Surface 104) and Suction Attachment Window 209. In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, Suction Attachment Window 209 is for a single use and Disposable Portion 218 is separable from Suction Attachment Window 209, whereby Disposable Portion 218 can be used for serving a next patient, using a different Suction Attachment Window 209. In some exemplary embodiments, Suction Attachment Window 209 may be a relatively thin layer in comparison to other windows. Additionally, or alternatively, Suction Attachment Window 209 may be made from material such as glass, crystal optical materials-quartz, sapphire, fluorite, other natural or synthetic crystals, polymer optical materials, polymer optical materials having transmission properties for strong light and laser irradiation, or the like. In some cases, disinfection may reduce desired optical properties, and as a result, a disposable Suction Attachment Window 209 may be utilized.

[0083] Additionally, or alternatively, the deformable material from which the Disposable Portion may deteriorate more rapidly than Suction Attachment Window 209, with negative effect of the degree of vacuum that can be maintained during treatment, or with negative effect on the operation of the vacuum pump. One may accordingly opt to dispose the Disposable Portion 218 after predetermined number of treatments, and to sterilize or disinfect the window plate for reuse.

[0084] In some exemplary embodiments, HIL Actuator 211 may comprise an HIL Treatment Device 219, an HIL Actuator Body 220, an HIL Actuator Window 212, and one or more Imaging Devices 213. HIL Treatment Device 219 may comprise a plurality of Optical Fibers 216, which are assembled together as a bundle into a Fiber Holder 215 (referred to herein also "Ferrule"). In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, Ferrule 215 merges with a Fiber Sleeve 214. The Fiber Sleeve 214 may be configured as, or comprise, a bend relief boot (not shown).

[0085] In some exemplary embodiments, from Fiber Sleeve 214, the bundle of Optical Fibers 216 extends through a flexible sheath constituting a Cable's Outer Jacket 205, into HIL Source 202. In some exemplary embodiments, a single HIL Source 202 may be utilized to provide the HIL to all the optical fibers. Additionally, or alternatively, there may be different HIL Sources 202, each of which illuminating a different portion of the optical fibers. For example, each source may illuminate a different optical fiber, a different bundle of optical fibers, such as a group of several fibers, e.g., seven fibers, as is illustrated by 3l6a in Figure 3A. [0086] In some embodiments, an optical coupling connector is provided along the bundle for facilitating replacement of the bundle and/or of Ferrule 215. In some exemplary embodiments, different ferrules may provide a different focal point (TP) due to having different spatial positioning of the contained optical fibers. For example, a first ferrule may provide a focal point TP at a 2mm distance from the end of the first ferrule, while a second ferrule may provide a focal point at a 4mm distance. As another example, a third ferrule may provide two focal points, one at a distance of 2mm and the other at a distance of 4mm.

[0087] In some exemplary embodiments, HIL Treatment Device 219 may be connected to HIL Source 202 by means of light guide such as a fiber or a bundle of Fibers 216. In some exemplary embodiments, HIL Actuator 211 may be configured to focus the HIL received from HIL Source 202, into a desired point on the human skin, on a treatment area, or on a treatment target intended to undergo the HIL treatment.

[0088] In some exemplary embodiments, Base 207 may comprise a Base Window 210. Base Window 210, HIL Actuator Window 212, and Suction Attachment Window 209 may be made each of an optically transparent material, which have a desired transparency characteristics. For example, the material may be transmissive for both visible and infrared light with relatively minimal scattering and energy losses, such as below desired values. In some cases, the desired values may be determined by a designer accounting for cost effectiveness of the system as a whole.

[0089] In some exemplary embodiments, Suction Attachment Window 209 may be rigidly connected to ABS Arrangement 208. ABS Arrangement 208 may be rigidly connectable to Base 207. Base Window 210 may be rigidly assembled into Base 207. In some exemplary embodiments, when ABS Arrangement 208 is rigidly connected to Base 207, Suction Attachment Window 209 may be pressed upon Base Window 210. HIL Actuator Window 212 may be pressed upon a surface of Base Window 210 in such a way that HIL Actuator 211 as a whole can slidably move on top of the surface of Suction Attachment Window 209.

[0090] In some exemplary embodiments, Robotic Motion System 217 may be rigidly attached to Base 207. HIL Actuator 211 may be connected to Robotic Motion System 217 in such a way that a parallel stage (e.g. in XY plane) may be configured to move HIL Actuator 211 relatively to Base 207. In some exemplary embodiments, Spaces between two adjacent windows (e.g., Windows 209, 210, 212) or between a window (e.g., Suction Attachment Window 209) and the patient skin can be filled with a layer of optically clear liquid or gel for reduction of reflection from surfaces of said windows. In some cases, the liquid or gel may be useful for reduction of reflection while avoiding direct contact friction between the two windows, thereby facilitating motion of HIL Actuator 211 by Robotic Motion System 217 and increasing life span of both windows. In some exemplary embodiments, one set of adjacent windows may be HIL Actuator Window 212 and Base Window 210. Additionally or alternatively, another set of adjacent windows may be Base Window 210 and Suction Attachment Window 209.

[0091] In some exemplary embodiments, a controller, such as Computing Device 204, may be in communication with, and control HIL Source 202. Additionally or alternatively, Computing Device may be in communication with and control Vacuum Pump 203.

[0092] Additionally, or alternatively, a controller such as Computing Device 204 may be in communication with, and control Imaging Device 213 and Robotic Motion System 217. Imaging Device 213 may be configured to acquire close-up images of treated tissue surface (such as 104 of Figure 1) and transfer them to Computing Device 204. Computing Device 204 may be configured to estimate the location of the target. For example, the location of the target may be visible on the skin and determined precisely based on the image. As another example, in case the target is subdermal, such as Lower Portion 103 of Figure 1, the location may be estimated based on the visible portion (e.g., Upper Portion 102), based on vector d of the visible portion of the hair, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, Computing Device 204 may control a treatment procedure by controlling Robotic Motion System 217 to direct Ferrule 215 at the estimated location of the target. Additionally or alternatively, Computing Device 204 may control HIL Source 202 to emit HIL at the target for a desired period of time or until a visible condition or a change in a visible parameter is detected using Imaging Device 213. Additionally or alternatively, Computing Device 204 may prevent activation of the HIL treatment if Vacuum Pump 203 did not operate, if Disposable Portion 218 is not affixed to the treated area, if image registration is not possible due to respective movement between Disposable Portion 218 and treated area, or the like. [0093] Referring now to Figure 2C showing an illustration of a high intensity light treatment device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0094] In some exemplary embodiments, HIL Treatment Device 219 may comprise a plurality of Optical Fibers 216. The number and spatial arrangement of the Optical Fibers 216 may be adapted for effectively focusing the HIL on a treatment target, and for concentrating a desired amount of light energy onto a small target area, such as of a surface of no more than about 0.25 square millimeter. In some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter the HIL treatment Device 219 is configured to concentrate the emitted light energy onto a small target area, such as about 0.25 square millimeter, about 0.1 square millimeter, about 0.01 square millimeter, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, any number of fibers, such as 5 fibers, 6 fibers, 7 fibers, 10 fibers, or the like may be used for delivering the HIL to the target. In some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter (e.g. as illustrated by Fig. 3A), the HIL treatment device comprises a plurality (e.g. between 10 and 30) of groups, each group comprising a plurality (e.g. between 3 and 13) of fibers each.

[0095] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the HIL treatment device may include also a bundle comprising a plurality of optic fibers for endoscopic imaging purposes, e.g. for acquiring an image of the target and/or its surroundings and delivering it to Computing Device 204. Such imaging arrangement may be either additional or alternative to the Imaging Devices 213. Low intensity light may be delivered through the Optical Fibers 216 during imaging by the endoscopic bundle of optic fibers, for illuminating the target. In some exemplary embodiments, Computing Device 204 may be configured to switch the HIL Treatment Device 219 from treatment mode of operation to imaging mode of operation, while controlling the light intensity emitted from the Light Source 202, by selecting between alternative light sources (not shown), or the like, according to the current mode of operation.

[0096] In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of Optical Fibers 216 are arranged in the HIL Treatment Device 219 such that a Central Fiber (or bundle of fibers) 216b is located along the longitudinal axis of the HIL Treatment Device 219, while a plurality of Peripheral Fibers 216a extend angularly to the longitudinal axis of the HIL Treatment Device 219, each ending at a respective point on a circular end of the HIL Treatment Device 219. In some exemplary embodiments, the circular end may have a predetermined radius originating about and oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the HIL Treatment Device 219.

[0097] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the plurality of Peripheral Fibers 216a may be angularly spaced about the longitudinal axis, such that they form a truncated conus like fibers construction, with each fiber situated on and extending along an enveloping surface (either imaginary or formed by a real casing wall, such as constituting a Ferrule 215) of substantially conical shape, wherein the conical shape being truncated by said circle, transversely to the longitudinal axis of the HIL Treatment Device 219. Central Fiber 216b may be substantially aligned with said longitudinal axis, which in some embodiments is an axis of symmetry of the conical surface. Main optical axes of all Optical Fibers 216 may intersect in one point (such as the point annotated TP in Figure 2A). In some exemplary embodiments, having this spatial arrangement of the Optical Fibers 216, HIL emitted by all of the Optical Fibers 216, may irradiate simultaneously a treatment target located at point TP. As a result of the delivery of the HIL by the plurality of Optical Fibers 216 being focused accurately into a single point, the intensity of radiation at the point become multiplied according to the number of Optical Fibers 216. In some exemplary embodiments, intermediate surfaces, such as Skin Surface 104 through which the HIL passes, may be subject to the same amount of radiation but spanning over different sizes of areas. As a result, each affected area in the intermediate surface is subject to a reduced amount of radiation compared with the radiation at TP, and may not be adversely affected, as opposed to if all energy passed through a single point in the skin.

[0098] In some exemplary embodiments, Optical Fibers 219 may be positioned so as to cause light rays emitted from their respective ends to coincide at a focal point at a predetermined distance from the end of the HIL Treatment Device 219 (e.g., at TP). In some exemplary embodiments, each light ray emitted from a different Optical Fiber 216 is configured to pass through a different location at an imaginary surface transversely to a longitudinal axis of Fermle 215 and located in between the distal end of Ferrule 215 and the focal point. In some cases, Skin Surface 104 may be placed in between the distal end of Ferrule 215 and the focal point, and accordingly areas of the skin may be affected by a reduced (or null) amount of energy, in comparison to that affecting the focal point TP, which is located below Skin Surface 104. [0099] In some exemplary embodiments, HIL Treatment Device 219 may be rigidly attached to HIL Actuator Window 212. Additionally, or alternatively, an Actuator Reference System (ARS) is defined in association with Actuator Window 212. A Base Reference System (BRS) is defined in association with Base Window 210. The Z axis of ARS may be parallel to the Z axis of BRS. In some exemplary embodiments, (xo,yo,z₀) may be defined as the origin of ARS in BRS. In some exemplary embodiments, z_o may be substantially constant, as HIL Treatment Device 219 may not have any degree of freedom with respect to the Z axis. XY plane of ARS may be substantially parallel to XY plane of BRS and may be situated on the same, constant, distance |z_o | one from another.

[0100] Referring now to Figure 2D showing an illustration of an imaging device, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0101] In some exemplary embodiments, HIL Actuator 211 may comprise one or more Imaging Devices 213. Imaging Device 213 may comprise a Camera 241, such as a digital camera(s), for acquiring images of the area which includes the target to be treated (such as Skin Surface 104 of Figure 1). In some exemplary embodiments, Imaging Device 213 may comprise one or more Illumination Devices 242 for illumination of the treated tissue for acquiring images using Camera(s) 241. Camera(s) 241 may be configured to acquire images either within the visible or within the infrared spectrums of light. Alternatively, separate Cameras 241 can be used, each configured to acquire images in a different spectrum ranges of light. Illumination Device(s) 242 may be configured accordingly, to illuminate with light wavelengths in match with the intended image acquiring modality. In some embodiments more than one source of light may be included, each of which for illuminating with light at the desired wave lengths (and the desired intensity per a wave length or a range of wavelengths), which may or may not vary depending on stage of the treatment method.

[0102] Figures 3 A to 3F illustrate different views of embodiments of a Fiber Holder 300, for use in various embodiments of the apparatus for HIL treatment according to the presently disclosed subject matter. Fiber Holder 300 comprises an array of nineteen Bores 320, each extending between a Top Plane 326 and a Bottom Plane 336 located at top and bottom portions of a Body 301 of Fiber Holder 300. Top Plane 326 and Bottom Plane 336 may be transversely to a Common Longitudinal Axis 337, and parallel to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, each Bore 320 is configured to hold a group of one or more optical fibers (e.g., seven optical fibers: one of which in the middle, surrounded by six others) ending at or close to Bottom Plane 336, and projecting outwardly from Top Plane 326, where all groups may be packaged into a cable of fibers (e.g., Cable 205 of Figure 2A), to be coupled to an HIL Source (e.g., 202 of Figure 2A).

[0103] In some exemplary embodiments, Fiber Holder 300 may comprise several sets of groups of optical fibers. A group of fibers, such as for example 316a, 316b, 316c, or 3 l6d, may comprise one or more optical fibers. As illustrated in Figures 3A-3F, each group may comprise seven optical fibers that are directed at a same location. In some exemplary embodiments, each group within a set of groups of optical fibers may be directed at a same target point. In some cases, groups within two or more sets of groups may be directed at a same target point.

[0104] In some exemplary embodiments, an Axial Group 3l6b may coincide with or extends parallel to Common Longitudinal Axis 337. Axial Group 316b may pass through a center point of a plane transversely to Common Longitudinal Axis 337, such as Top Plane 326 and Bottom Plane 336.

[0105] Additionally or alternatively, one or more sets of peripheral groups may be included in Fiber Holder 300. Peripheral groups may extend angularly to Common Longitudinal Axis 377.

[0106] In some exemplary embodiments, a first set of peripheral groups of optical fibers may comprise Peripheral Groups 316c, each of which including seven fibers, and extending angularly to Common Longitudinal Axis 377 in a first predetermined angle. In some exemplary embodiments, the optical fibers constituting Axial Group 316b and the optical fibers constituting the sets of Peripheral Groups 316c may terminate each group remotely from the others and not farther from Bottom Plane 336, whereby light rays to be emitted from the ends of the optical fibers are configured to coincide at a shared focal point a predetermined distance from Bottom Plane 336, e.g. 4 millimeters away from Bottom Plane 336 (FPac), 2 millimeters away from Bottom Plane 336 (PFd), or the like, on common Longitudinal Axis 337. In some exemplary embodiments, each group of the first set of Peripheral Groups 316c may be located so as to pass through a circle in Top Plane 326 having a center at the intersection of Common Longitudinal Axis 377 with Top Plane 326.

[0107] In some exemplary embodiments, a second set of peripheral groups may comprise Peripheral Groups 316a. As is illustrated, Peripheral Groups 316a are located so as to pass through a second circle in Top Plane 326 having a center at the same intersection point and having a larger diameter than the circle on which the first set of Peripheral Groups 316c is located. In some exemplary embodiments, the second set of Peripheral Groups 316a may be remoter from Axial Group 316b than the first set of Peripheral Groups 316c. Each Peripheral Group 316a may extend angularly to common Longitudinal Axis 337 in a second predetermined angle. In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second predetermined angles may be different angles. In some exemplary embodiments, each Peripheral Group 316c terminates remotely from the others and not farther from the Bottom Plane 336, which is disposed transversely to Common Longitudinal Axis 337.

[0108] As become apparent from Ligs 3A to 3L, the HIL treatment device may comprise a plurality (e.g. between 10 and 100) of groups, each group comprising a plurality (e.g. between 3 and 13) of optical fibers.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the array of optical fibers comprises nineteen groups. One of the nineteen groups, constituting an Axial Group 316b, is arranged along the longitudinal axis of the fiber holder 300 (which may form an inner part of Lerrule 215).

[0110] Another set of six Peripheral Groups 3l6c enter a proximal end of the Top Plane 326, symmetrically spaced from one another and from Axial Group 316b along a circular line having a first predetermined diameter from Common Longitudinal Axis 337, on Top Plane 326 transversely to Common Longitudinal Axis 337.

[0111] The remaining twelve groups of fibers comprise a third set of six Peripheral Groups 316a and a fourth set of six Peripheral Groups 3l6d. In some exemplary embodiments, each Peripheral Group 316a or 3l6d may enter Top Plane 326 of fiber Holder 300 symmetrically spaced from one another and from Axial Group 316b along a second circular line having a second predetermined diameter from Common Longitudinal Axis 337 on said Top Plane 326, which is disposed transversely to Common Longitudinal Axis 337. [0112] In some exemplary embodiments, Fiber Holder 300 may hold the peripheral groups of fibers in predetermined angles with respect to Common Longitudinal Axis 317 (hence in predetermined angles with respect to Axial Group 316b). In some exemplary embodiments, the angles may be designed such that the fibers of the Peripheral Groups 316a, 316c and 3l6d converge towards Axial Group 316b as they all come closer to a distal end of Fiber Holder (Bottom Plane 336). In some exemplary embodiments, Peripheral Groups 3l6d may be spatially oriented such that light emitted from the distal end of each fiber of the set of Peripheral Groups 3l6d meets a focal point common to all Peripheral Groups 3l6d, FPd, at a predetermined distance e.g. 2 millimeters from the distal end of Fiber Holder 300 (Bottom Plane 336). Axis 3l7d illustrates an axis along which a ray emitted from one Peripheral Group 3 l6d travels and illustrates it reaching FPd.

[0113] In some exemplary embodiments, Peripheral Groups 316a and 316c may be spatially oriented such that light emitted from the distal end of each fiber of the set of Peripheral Groups 316a and 316c meets a focal point common to all Peripheral Groups 316a and 316c, FPac, at a predetermined distance e.g. 4 millimeters from the distal end of Fiber Holder 300 (Bottom Plane 336). Axis 3l7c illustrates an axis along which a ray emitted from one Peripheral Group 3 l6c travels and illustrates it reaching FPac. Similarly, Axis 3 l7a illustrates an axis along which a ray emitted from one Peripheral Group 316a travels and illustrates it reaching FPac.

[0114] It is to be appreciated that the distance of a focal point away from the bottom end of Fiber Holder 300 may be determined in consideration with a width of the transparent attachment shield and of any other intermediation medium located between the area to be treated and the bottom end of the Fiber Holder 300.

[0115] Due to convergence of axes of the Peripheral Groups the proximal end (e.g. top plane 326) of Fiber Holder 300 to its distal end (e.g. Bottom Plane 336), Fiber Holder 300 may have a Truncated Conical Body Member 315, having a smaller diameter at its distal end then at its proximal end.

[0116] In some exemplary embodiments, different embodiments of Fiber Holder 300 may be provided. Some embodiments may comprise a single focal point for all fibers. Additionally, or alternatively, fiber holders having different two or more focal points may be provided. Additionally, or alternatively, fiber holders differing by distances to the focal points may be provided. In some exemplary embodiments, Fiber Holder 300 and its associated array of fibers may be replaceable within HIL Treatment Device (e.g., 219 of Figure 2). The fiber holder may be switched depending on the actual usage, such as based on parameters such as depth of treatment, type of treatment or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, the HIL Source 202 may be configured to direct HIL to selected sets of optical fibers, thereby allowing to utilize a fiber holder having plurality of different focal points per a respective plurality different sets of fibers, for irradiating only through fibers having one or more focal points that meet the requirements of each specific treatment, or of each specific session within each specific treatment. Computing Device 204 may be configured to select a focal point to be utilized, and accordingly utilize HIL Source 202 to propagate HIL via respective fibers that are configured to reach the selected focal point.

[0117] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate different views of an Apparatus 400 for HIL treatment according to another embodiment of the presently disclosed subject matter. Figure 4A illustrates an isometric view of Apparatus 400, taken from a top and side perspective, while Figure 4B illustrates an isometric view taken from a top and side perspective with Apparatus 400 positioned in an upside-down orientation.

[0118] In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus 400 may be configured to treat a target area in the form of a plane. In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus 400 may be configured to treat external surfaces of the human body. For example, Apparatus 400 may be utilized to remove hair from a person's back, hand, chest, or the like.

[0119] Apparatus 400 comprises a Base 407, a transparent attachment shield constituting a Suction Attachment Window Plate 409, and a Fiber Holder 415 movable over Suction Attachment Window Plate 409 by a Robotic Motion Device 401. Robotic Motion Device 401 comprises an Electrical Motor 430y situated in a Moving Plate 4l7y, and related motion transformation system, for moving Fiber Holder 415 in the Y direction, and an Electrical Motor 430x situated in a Moving Plate 4l7x, and related motion transformation system, for moving Fiber Holder 415 in the X direction in some exemplary embodiments, Base 407 comprises a Coupling Terminal 406 to which a Suction Pipe 206 may be coupled for communicating suction power from Vacuum Pump 203, to the space between an area to be treated and Suction Attachment Window Plate 409. In some exemplary embodiments, Suction Attachment Window Plate 409 may become attached by suction to a surface which may include potential targets to be treated. In some exemplary embodiments, Base 407 may include a surrounding Sealing Rim 408s, which together with Suction Attachment Window Plate 409 constitute an Attachment By Suction (ABS) Arrangement 408. The Sealing Rim 408s may have a circular or semi-circular cross section, partly protruding from above the level of the outer surface of Base 407 which faces the area to be treated. The circular or semi-circular contour of the part of Sealing Rim 408s facing the area to be treated provides for increased contact area with the area, thus avoiding pressure damages to the surface to which the ABS Arrangement 408 is attached by suction.

[0120] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, Sealing Rim 408s is separable from Base 407, and in some embodiments is disposable, with or without the Suction Attachment Window Plate 409.

[0121] The surrounding Sealing Rim 408s of ABS Arrangement 408 may be formed from deformable material such as rubber, silicone rubber, and the like.

[0122] In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, the surrounding Sealing Rim 408s may comprise an inwardly facing extension which separates and intermediates between edges of Suction Attachment Window Plate 409 and edges of Window Opening 407w in Base 407 in which ABS Arrangement 408 is situated. The edges of Suction Attachment Window Plate 409 may have a beveled contour such as the semicircular contour of edges (e.g., Edges 209e in Figure 2B) of the edges of Suction Attachment Window Plate 209. The inwardly facing extension of Sealing Rim 408s may have a matching recessed contour for snugly receiving the edges of Suction Attachment Window Plate 409.

[0123] In various embodiments, Apparatus 400 may include a cover such as 2l9c of Fig. 2A. The cover may be secured to the Base 407, e.g. by Screws 407f.

[0124] Referring to Figure 5, a transverse cross-sectional view taken through the longitudinal axis of anther embodiment of an apparatus according to the presently disclosed subject matter, is illustrated. [0125] In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus 500 has a transparent attachment shield of a tubular design, configured as an Outer Envelope 554, which may remain substantially fixed, i.e. immovable with respect to a target area to be treated by HIL. Apparatus 500 may be especially useful for treating target areas within body cavities such as nostrils, by inserting the device into a nostril, with Outer Envelope 554 snugly fitted within the nostril for immovably contacting the surface of the nostril's tissue.

[0126] Additionally, or alternatively, Apparatus 500 may be utilized as part of an endoscope.

[0127] In some exemplary embodiments, there may be an Inner Cylindrical Body 555 which may rotate within the cylindrical Outer Envelope 554. In various embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter, Inner Cylindrical Body 555 is made of metallic material. In various exemplary embodiments, the Cylindrical Body 555 has a Dome Shaped End 555c, whereby protecting sensitive body tissues from injury or pain, and facilitating insertion and positioning of Apparatus 500 within body cavity. In some exemplary embodiments, Outer Envelope 554 may have a closed distal end, having a dome shape additionally or as an alternative to the Dome Shaped End 555c of the Cylindrical Body 555. An aperture may be provided in such embodiments, either at the distal end of the Cylindrical Body 555 or at the closed distal end of the outer envelope, to avoid vacuum or air compression from being developed between the distal end of Cylindrical Body 555 during relative linear motion between Cylindrical Body 555 and the closed end embodiment variation of Outer Envelope 554.

[0128] Inside inner Cylindrical Body 555, two Mirrors 556 and 557 may be disposed, with reflective surfaces thereof forming a 45 degrees angle with a longitudinal axis of symmetry abut which the Inner Cylindrical Body 555 is rotatable within Outer Envelope 554. A Fiber Bundle 551 comprising a plurality of optical fibers extends along longitudinal axis of Inner Cylindrical Body 555, and the plurality of its optical fibers end at Ferrule 55 lf. Ferrule 55 lf may be located so as to be aimed at the reflective surface of Mirror 557. In some exemplary embodiments, in order to reduce a blind spot caused by Fiber Bundle 551 and Ferrule 55 lf, Fiber Bundle 551 and Ferrule 55 lf may be positioned in a distance from the central longitudinal axis of Inner Cylindrical Body 555, such as positioned in parallel to the central longitudinal axis of Inner Cylindrical Body 555 and adjacent the surface of Inner Cylindrical Body 555, crossing a peripheral section of a circular base defining Inner Cylindrical Body 555. Additionally, or alternatively, such position may allow Fiber Bundle 551 to be positioned so as to not pass through Mirror 556 (as opposed to the illustrated embodiment). In some exemplary embodiments, Mirror 556 may be smaller than Mirror 557. In some exemplary embodiments, Fiber Bundle 551 may pass beneath the smaller Mirror 556 and still be aimed at the larger Mirror 557.

[0129] In some exemplary embodiments, a Light 553 originated by an HIL Source (not shown) and delivered therefrom through Optical Fibers 551 which constitute a light guide, becomes redirected by Mirror 557 into an optically transparent Window 552, formed in an outer wall of Inner Cylindrical Body 555. Light 553 may also pass through the transparent attachment shield that is embodied as Outer Envelope 554. In various embodiments, Window 552 may be forms as or include a lens. The lens may be utilized to focus parallel light beams at a focal point at a predetermined distance from the lens.

[0130] Camera 558 has sightline and is in alignment with a reflective surface of Mirror 556, through optically transparent Window 559, such as a glazed window or an aperture, situated on the outer wall of Inner Cylindrical Body 555. Camera 558 may have a sightline crossing the transparent attachment shield that is embodied as Outer Envelope 554, such as in proximity to Window 552. In some exemplary embodiments, Camera 558 can acquire images of the target area by light returning from the target area through the transparent outer envelope, crossing Window 552, redirected by Mirror 557 towards Mirror 556, and redirected by Mirror 556 towards Camera 558 through the Window 559.

[0131] Illumination of the target area for the imaging stage, may be achieve either by flash light originated at the camera, or by imaging light originated at a proximal end of optical fibers included in Fiber Bundle 551 for image acquiring purposes. In embodiments which make use of flash light originated at Camera 558, the light for the imaging may be delivered to the target area along the same optical path (yet in opposite directionality) through which Camera 558 acquires the target area images. In embodiments which make use of imaging light originated at a proximal end of optical fibers included in Fiber Bundle 551 which deliver HIL for treatment, the light for the imaging may be originated by a light source coupled to the proximal end of the optical fibers dedicated for the image acquiring, and delivered by these optical fibers to Mirror 557, which redirects the imaging light to the target area in front of Window 552.

[0132] In some exemplary embodiments, Apparatus 500 may comprise a robotic motion device coupled between the transparent attachment shield (e.g. Outer Envelope 554) and Inner Cylindrical Body 555, for moving the HIL light guide constituted by the Fiber Bundle 551, and the imaging device constituted by Camera 558 and related optics such as the diagonally disposed Mirrors 556 and 557, with respect to the Outer Envelope 554. The robotic motion device may comprise rotational and axial motion mechanism having two degrees of freedom (one rotational, and the other linear, for shifting the cylindrical body linearly along the longitudinal axis of Outer Envelope 554, between the illustrated position (with Window 552 located near right side end of Outer Envelope 554), and a position in which Window 552 comes closer to the left side end of Outer Envelope 554.

[0133] In some exemplary embodiments, rotational movement of Inner Cylindrical Body 555 may cause a rotation of Fiber Bundle 551 so as that the rotation does not change the relative location between Fiber Bundle 551 and Inner Cylindrical Body 555. Additionally, or alternatively, rotational movement of Inner Cylindrical Body 555 causes a change in the relative location between Camera 558 and Inner Cylindrical Body 555. Additionally, or alternatively, Camera 558 may be positioned differently. Using a system of mirrors and additional optics (e.g., optical periscope) (not shown) Camera 558 may be positioned in any other location. As an example, Camera 558 may be positioned directly in front of the lens, e.g., Window 559. As another example, Camera 558 may be positioned further from Window 559, such as at a distance that is sufficient to host next to the optical module other elements of mechanics for quality scanning and focus that the plot of the tissues. As yet another example, the image to Camera 558 can be transmitted through fiber optics such as the fiber optics that are used in endoscopes.

[0134] In some exemplary embodiments, Mirror 556 may be a one-sided mirror, allowing Ferrule 55 lf to be located at a proximal portion of Inner Cylindrical Body 555 and emitting Light 553 so as to pass through a non -reflective side of Mirror 556. In some exemplary embodiments, the challenge of the existence of the blind spot may be overcome by means of rotation. In some exemplary embodiments, to cover a current blind spot in an acquired image, rotational movement may be performed to acquire a second image, having a blind spot on its own, but covering the spatial location whose view was obstructed in the first acquired image, and which constituted the aforementioned current blind spit.

[0135] In some exemplary embodiments, Fiber Bundle 551 may be affixed to a side wall of Inner Cylindrical Body 555 throughout a longitudinal portion thereof and at a distal portion thereof be positioned so as to depart and become more distant than the side wall and directed at Mirror 557.

[0136] In some exemplary embodiments, Camera 558, or a camera additional to camera 558, may be located at a proximal portion of Inner Cylindrical Body 555 or externally thereto and directed in a direction that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of Inner Cylindrical Body 555.

[0137] Referring now to Figure 6 showing a flowchart diagram of a method, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0138] In some exemplary embodiments, there may be three stages: a Calibration Stage 600, a Preparation Stage 650, and a Treatment Stage 680.

[0139] In some exemplary embodiments, Calibration Stage 600 may comprise Steps 601 and 602.

[0140] On Step 601, an imaging device (such as Imaging Device 213) may be calibrated to remove the imaging device distortions.

[0141] On Step 602, a robotic motion system (such as Robotic Motion System 217) may be calibrated to map robot motion to a respective motion of ARS within BRS.

[0142] In some exemplary embodiments, Preparation Stage 650 may comprise Steps 651, 652 and 653.

[0143] On Step 651, the device may be attached and fixated to the skin. In some exemplary embodiments, a human user, such as a technician, a physician, a surgeon, or the like, may assemble the disposable portion of the device (e.g., Disposable Portion 218) on the basis of the device (e.g., Base 207). The user may rigidly attach the device to the surface of the patient tissue (e.g. Skin 100). A vacuum pump (such as 203) may be configured to create a reduced pressure under a ABS Arrangement (e.g., 208). As a result, outer regions of the tissue's upper surface may become pressed to the surrounding rims of the ABS Arrangement (e.g. surrounding rims of Disposable Portion 218), and central regions of the tissue's upper surface may become pressed toward a respective window (209). Consequently, patient tissue (and SRS referencing it) may remain substantially motionless relatively to BRS as long as the reduced pressure is maintained it can be appreciated that access of infectious sources to the treatment area become limited due to the isolation provided by ABS Arrangement 208, between the area to be treated (which is maintained under reduced pressure), and the open ambient atmosphere.

[0144] On Step 652, a plurality of images of treated tissue surface may be acquired and transferred to Computing Device 204. Images may be acquired by one or more Imaging Devices 213. In some exemplary embodiments, the images may be acquired for several locations and based on a registration, the physical location of each pixel can be identified. Additionally, or alternatively, the images may be images of the same location using different wavelengths, different sensors, or the like,

[0145] On Step 653, target detection may be performed based on computerized analyses of the images. In some exemplary embodiments, subject to be treated, such as a hair, may be identified. A location of the target may be determined based thereon. For example, the location may be determined to be the location of the exposed portion of the hair, the visible leisure, or the like. The location may be determined to be the location non-visible target, such as lower portion of hair, hair follicle, subdermal target, or the like. The location of the target may be estimated based on visual features in the images, such as a vector of an exposed portion of a hair shaft.

[0146] In some exemplary embodiments, based on the target detection a single target may be identified to be treated in Stage 680. After Stage 680 is completed Steps 652-653 may be repeated to locate a next target. Additionally, or alternatively, a plurality of targets may be acquired and a treatment plan may be determined. The treatment plan may comprise a set of targets and their respective locations, to be treated. Additionally, or alternatively, the treatment plan may define an order of treating each target. The order may be determined so as to provide minimal amount of total movements by the robotic device, to enable sufficient cooling off period for potentially affected areas, or the like. For example, the plan may comprise treating a target in one sub-area and treating targets in other sub-areas before returning to the sub-area to treat another target. The treatment plan may be defined so as to ensure that there is a minimal elapsed time between a first treatment session in a sub-area and between a second treatment session. Each treatment session may be treatment of a single target. Additionally, or alternatively, a treatment session may comprise treatment of a plurality of targets. In some exemplary embodiments, a treatment session may be defined by a timeframe. Additionally, or alternatively, a treatment session may be defined by an estimated energy affecting the sub -area. Additionally, or alternatively, a treatment session may be defined by a number of targets treated.

[0147] On Step 681, the light guide, such as ferrule, may be moved. The light guide may be moved to be aimed at the target. In some exemplary embodiments, the light guide may be moved to bring the focal point of the HIL device into alignment with a target point, determined on Step 653. In some exemplary embodiments, the light guide may be aimed using at least one focal point thereof at the target.

[0148] On Step 682, HIL may be emitted via the light guide to affect the target. In some exemplary embodiments, Light Source 202 may be activated for illuminating the target to a desired time period in a desired light intensity via the all or some of the fibers. In some exemplary embodiments, the fibers that are aimed at the focal point that is in alignment with the target point may be utilized.

[0149] Referring now to Ligure 7 showing a flowchart diagram of a method, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0150] On Step 701, HIL treatment device may be fixated to a subject. Lor example, fixation may be implemented by the use of ABS arrangement. Based on the fixation, image registration may be enabled.

[0151] On Step 703, an image may be acquired from a sensor.

[0152] On Step 705, a target location may be determined. The target location may be a target point of a selected target identifiable in the image of Step 703. Additionally, or alternatively, the target location may be identified based on the image. The target location may be a location of the target as is visible in the image, such as an exposed portion of a hair shaft. Additionally, or alternatively, the target location may be computed and estimated based on visual information available in the image, such as perceived vector of the exposed hair shaft, to estimate a location of the subdermal hair follicle located below the skin surface. The subdermal hair follicle is an example of an unexposed portion of a target (e.g., hair).

[0153] On Step 707, by means of a robotic device, the light guide may be moved to be positioned at a manner aiming the light at the target location. In some exemplary embodiments, movement of the light guide may be performed in no more than two degrees of freedom, such as two perpendicular linear movements (XY) or a rotational movement and a linear movement, or the like.

[0154] On Step 709, the HIL light source may be activated to provide HIL to be emitted by the light guide towards the target. In some exemplary embodiments, a subset of the fibers may be selected to be used, such as in case the light guide has two or more focal points. The subset may comprise fibers that are aimed at a selected focal point. In some exemplary embodiments, the focal point is selected based on a desired depth, distance in a Z axis, or the like.

[0155] In some exemplary embodiments, Steps 703-709 may be repeated until all targets are handled. Additionally, or alternatively, the steps may be repeated until a treatment duration elapses. Additionally, or alternatively, the steps may be repeated until a user stops the procedure or another halting condition is met. In some exemplary embodiments, there may be applied an intentional delay in between consecutive HIL treatments of different subjects within a same location, such as within a location having an area of about 1 square millimeter, about 1.5 square millimeter, about 25 square millimeter, or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, the delay may be based on the fluence to which the area was exposed in a sliding window. In some exemplary embodiments, the robotic motion may be utilized to direct the HIL treatment to locations external to a first location with respect of which the delay is required, and to redirect the HIL treatment back to the first location for continuing the HIL treatment at the first location after lapse of the desired delay. [0156] The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware -based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0157] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment, the apparatus comprising:

a transparent attachment shield to be immovably maintained during the light- based treatment adjacently to a treatment area in which at least one target to be treated is located;

an imaging device for acquiring images from the treatment area through a sightline crossing said transparent attachment shield;

a light guide for delivering HIL from an HIL source to the target through a sightline crossing said transparent attachment shield, whereby providing HIL treatment to the target, wherein said light guide is configured to deliver the HIL at a spot having an area of no more than 0.5 square millimeters; and

a robotic motion device for moving said light guide and said imaging device with respect to the transparent attachment shield, whereby the treatment area can be scanned by moving said light guide and said imaging device thereby acquiring images for recognizing locations of targets with respect to said transparent attachment shield, and providing HIL treatment for each target based on the recognized location thereof.

2. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said transparent attachment shield is removably connectible to a body of the apparatus as a part of a replaceable unit, whereby facilitating to treat patients with new sterile unit per each treatment session for improving treatment safety.

3. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said light guide comprises a plurality of optical fibers.

4. The apparatus according to Claim 3,

wherein said light guide comprises an axial group of one or more optical fibers and one or more peripheral groups of one or more optical fibers; wherein said axial group coincides with or extends parallel to a common longitudinal axis of said light guide;

wherein each peripheral group of said one or more peripheral groups extends angularly to the common longitudinal axis in a predetermined angle; and

wherein the one or more peripheral groups are configured to extend in such angles and positions that light rays emitted from the ends of their optical fibers coincide at a focal point on the common longitudinal axis at a predetermined distance from a bottom plane of said light guide, wherein the bottom plane is transversely to the common longitudinal axis.

5. The apparatus according to Claim 4 comprising at least a second set of one or more peripheral groups of one or more optical fibers, wherein each peripheral group of the second set extends angularly to the common longitudinal axis in a second predetermined angle and position such that once light rays are emitted from the ends of the optical fibers of the second set they coincide at a second focal point on the common longitudinal axis at a second predetermined distance from the bottom plane of said light guide.

6. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said light guide comprises a truncated conus fibers construction, wherein the truncated conus fibers construction extends along an enveloping surface of a conical shape.

7. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said light guide ends at an invariable distance from said transparent attachment shield, wherein the invariable distance is maintained upon activation of said robotic motion device.

8. The apparatus according to Claim 7, wherein said robotic motion device comprises a rotational and axial motion mechanism having two degrees of freedom.

9. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said transparent attachment shield is tubular, having a predetermined external diameter configured for maintaining said transparent attachment shield immovable with respect to a substantially tubular area to be treated from inside.

10. The apparatus according to Claim 9, wherein the substantially tubular area is one of: a nostril and a blood vessel, wherein the transparent attachment shield is configured in size and shape to be inserted into the nostril or the blood vessel.

11. The apparatus according to Claim 10,

wherein said light guide extends along a cylindrical body, the cylindrical body is both rotatable and axially movable within said tubular transparent attachment shield by said robotic motion device,

wherein said light guide ends in front of a diagonally disposed mirror located near a distal end of the cylindrical body, the diagonally disposed mirror is configured to redirect HIL emitted from the end of said light guide axially, to propagate through a window in an outer wall of the cylindrical body and across said tubular transparent attachment shield.

12. The apparatus according to Claim 11, wherein the cylindrical body comprises a second diagonally disposed mirror configured to redirect light propagating axially from the diagonally disposed mirror, to propagate in a direction of said imaging device, wherein said imaging device having a sightline angled to a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body.

13. The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein said transparent attachment shield is planar, wherein said apparatus further comprises a fixation by suction system for maintaining said attachment shield immovable with respect to the area to be treated.

14. The apparatus accuracy according to Claim 13, wherein said robotic motion device is configured to provide exactly two degrees of freedom of motion, by an XY motion mechanism.

15. A system for HIL treatment, the system comprising the apparatus according to any one of Claims 1 -13, wherein said system further comprises:

an HIL source coupled to said light guide; and

a computerized controller for controlling said robotic motion device.

16. A system for HIL treatment according to Claim 15, the system further comprising: a fixation by suction system for maintaining said attachment shield immovable with respect to the area to be treated; and a vacuum pump in fluid communication with said fixation by suction system.

17. A system for HIL treatment according to any one of Claims 15 and 16, wherein said computerized controller is configured to:

recognize targets to be treated based on analysis of images acquired by said imaging device;

determine locations of the recognized targets;

instruct said robotic motion device to position said light guide to be focused on each selected target; and

activate the HIL source for a predetermined time period to direct the HIL at the selected target.

18. A method for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment, the method comprising:

performing a plurality of times:

selecting a target for HIL treatment, wherein said selecting is based on an image of an area comprising a plurality of potential targets;

determining a location for performing the HIL treatment, wherein the location is determined based on a location of the target in the image;

positioning a light guide to be directed at the location; and

activating an HIL source that is coupled with the light guide, whereby applying HIL at the location to perform the HIL treatment of the target.

19. The method of Claim 18, wherein the target is at least one of a hair, a lesion, a skin area.

20. The method of Claim 18, wherein said determining the location comprises estimating a location of an unexposed portion of the target, wherein the unexposed portion of the target is invisible in the image.

21. The method of Claim 18, wherein the light guide is a ferrule comprising a plurality of optical fibers.

22. The method of Claim 21 , wherein each of the plurality of optical fibers having ends that are located at a shared surface that constitutes an end of the light guide, wherein the plurality of optical fibers are positioned so as to cause light rays emitted from their respective ends to coincide at a focal point at a predetermined distance from the light guide, whereby each light ray emitted from an optical fiber is configured to pass through a different location at a surface that is parallel to the shared surface and located in between the shared surface and the focal point.

23. The method of Claim 22, wherein said positioning comprises positioning the light guide so as to place the focal point below a skin surface, whereby said activating the HIL source provides an HIL treatment to a target located below the skin surface without injuring the skin surface.

24. The method of Claim 18 further comprising:

prior to said performing a plurality of times, fixating a device to a skin and over a transparent attachment shield, wherein the device comprising the light guide; wherein said selecting, determining, positioning and activating are performed by the device.

25. The method of Claim 24, wherein said activating causes the light guide to deliver HIL to the target through a sightline crossing the transparent attachment shield.

26. The method of Claim 24, wherein the device comprising an imaging device, wherein said selecting is performed based on images captured by the imaging device.

27. A method for High Intensity Light (HIL) treatment, the method comprising; fixating a transparent attachment shield of an HIL treatment apparatus to a surface area in which treatment targets potentially exist;

activating a computerized system for automatically controlling HIL treatment steps, the treatment steps comprise:

(i) acquiring images from regions within the surface area by at least one robotically controlled camera;

(ii) analyzing the images for recognizing target objects to be treated and their respective locations relatively to a reference location associated with the transparent attachment shield and constituting a reference location to a robotic motion mechanism by which motion of the camera is controlled;

(iii) moving an HIL light guide into alignment with a location of a target object to be treated, by the robotic motion mechanism;

(iv) delivering at least one predetermined dose of HIL from an HIL source to a target object location, through the light guide; and

(v) repeating steps (ii) to (iv) for a predetermined time period or until no additional target objects to be treated are recognized within a surface area intended to undergo HIL treatment.