Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an adaptable fungal infection combatting device that dynamically adapts to the dimensions of the user's body part affected by fungal infection in view of ensuring a proper fit and facilitating the effective delivery of treatment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Treating fungal infections is essential for maintaining overall health as these infections cause significant discomfort and lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, or candidiasis, affect various parts of the body, including the skin, nails, respiratory system, and internal organs. These infections thrive in warm, moist environments and spread easily through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. Without proper treatment, they persist and worsen, potentially causing chronic symptoms, skin damage, or even systemic infections that affect vital organs. Fungal infections also compromise the immune system particularly in individuals with weakened immunity such as those with diabetes or HIV. Treating fungal infections promptly is crucial to prevent complications, reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others, and alleviate symptoms such as itching, redness, swelling, and pain. Antifungal medications, both topical and oral, are commonly used to effectively eliminate the infection, restore the skin's integrity, and reduce inflammation. Maintaining good hygiene practices and addressing underlying health conditions prevent recurrence and promote long-term well-being and timely treatment of fungal infections is necessary to safeguard health and prevent their negative impact on quality of life.

[0003] Traditional methods of treating fungal infections often involve the use of home remedies and natural treatments. Common approaches include the application of tea tree oil, garlic, aloevera, vinegar, or turmeric, which have antifungal properties. These remedies are often used due to their accessibility, lower cost, and perceived safety. For example, tea tree oil is known for its antifungal and antiseptic properties, while garlic contains allicin, which fight fungal growth. Vinegar, with its acidic nature, is also used to restore skin pH and inhibit fungal activity. However, while these methods provide some relief, they have significant drawbacks. Firstly, their effectiveness is not always scientifically proven, and results vary greatly between individuals. Some of these treatments only target surface-level fungal issues for failing to address deeper or more persistent infections. Some natural remedies cause skin irritation or allergic reactions especially if not used properly or in sensitive areas. Moreover, these methods are not potent enough to eliminate serious fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals. As such, while traditional remedies are useful for mild cases, they are not a substitute for professional medical treatment, which include prescription antifungal medications for more effective and reliable results.

[0004] WO2015035102A2 discloses about an invention that has a compositions and methods for the treatment of fungal infections including compounds containing a pathogen pattern recognition receptor ligand and a β 1,3-glucan synthase inhibitor are disclosed. In particular, compounds containing a lipopeptide moiety and a formyl peptide receptor ligand can be used in the treatment of fungal infections caused by a fungus of the genus Aspergillus or Candida.

[0005] EP0091503A1 discloses about an invention that has Ethenylimidazoles of the formula in which n is 0, 1 or 2, R1 represents a halogen atom, a trifluoromethyl group or an alkyl or alkoxy group with at most 6 carbon atoms, the two substituents being the same or different when n is 2, R2 represents an alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atom, an alkenyl group with 2 to 4 atoms or a cycloalkyl group with 3 to 6 carbon atoms, R3 represents a hydrogen atoms, an alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms, or an alkenyl group with 2 to 4 carbon atoms and R4 represents a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group with 1 to 6 carbon atoms or a nitro group, or an acid addition salt thereof, are used in combatting fungal infections in agricultural products and foodstuffs.

[0006] Conventionally, many methods are available for treating the fungus appropriately. However, the cited invention primarily focuses on systemic or chemical treatments that lacks the personalized and adaptive approach and focus on chemical treatments or compositions for fungal infections. Both approaches rely on systemic or topical application of antifungal agents, which are not fully personalized to the specific needs of the user or the severity of the infection. They lack the ability to assess and adapt to the treatment based on real-time data from the affected area in view of leading to potential inefficiencies in treatment delivery.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that not only provides a more precise and effective treatment for fungal infections, but also offers a personalized approach customized to the individual user's condition. The developed invention addresses these needs by enabling real-time monitoring of the infection's severity, adjusting treatment delivery, regulating environmental factors such as moisture levels that influence the progression of the infection which lead to better outcomes and a reduction in the risk of recurrence or further infection.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of monitoring and adapting to the dimensions of the user's body part affected by fungal infection for ensuring proper fit and effective treatment delivery.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling the detection and assessment of the severity of fungal infection on the user's skin to allow accurate identification of affected areas.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of regulating the moisture levels on the skin patches and preventing excessive moisture that contribute to the fungal infection, by facilitating air circulation around the affected areas.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of selecting and delivering the most suitable anti-fungal treatment based on the evaluation of the infection's severity and the user's skin condition for ensuring effective and personalized therapy.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of preventing the spread of infection to surrounding areas by controlling the precise application of anti-fungal ointment based on the proximity of infected patches and reducing the risk of further contamination.

[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The present invention relates to an adaptable fungal infection combatting device that accurately detect and assess the severity of the fungal infection on the user's skin for enabling precise identification of affected areas and allowing personalized treatment.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an adaptable fungal infection combatting device, comprises of a band worn on the user's infected body part, equipped with an ultrasonic sensor to monitor the dimensions of the affected area. The band is configured with multiple extendable plates controlled by a microcontroller to ensure proper fit. A bottom open chamber on the band houses an AI-based imaging unit, along with a sensing module that includes thermal, color, and biosensors to assess the severity of the infection. Based on the analysis, the microcontroller selects the appropriate anti-fungal ointment. A non-contact moisture sensor monitors the moisture levels near the infection, prompting motorized iris lids to regulate air circulation and reduce excess moisture. Inside the chamber, a multi-sectioned container stores anti-fungal ointments (including hydrazine, 1,2,4 triazole, and 1,3,4 oxadiazol) and electronically controlled nozzles dispense the ointment onto the skin. The device also detects nearby infection-prone areas and adjusts the ointment application to prevent the infection from spreading.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an adaptable fungal infection combatting device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to an adaptable fungal infection combatting device aims to regulate moisture levels around the infected skin patches for promoting optimal healing conditions by preventing excess moisture and controlling the application of anti-fungal ointment, thereby reducing the risk of infection spread to surrounding areas.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an adaptable fungal infection combatting device is illustrated, comprising a band 101 developed to be worn by a user on the user’s body part having fungal infection, band 101 is integrated with an ultrasonic sensor 102, multiple extendable plates 103 integrated on the band 101 with an electromagnetic strip 104 configured at the ends of the band 101, a bottom open chamber 105 arranged at the band 101 and installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106, a non-contact moisture sensor 107 integrated in the chamber 105, multiple motorized iris lids 108 integrated on lateral sides of the chamber 105, a multi-sectioned container 109 arranged inside the chamber 105 and integrated with plurality of electronically controlled nozzles 110.

[0024] The device disclosed herein includes a band 101 developed to be worn on the user’s body part affected by fungal infection that adapts as per the varying shape and size of the user’s body part. This ensures that the band 101 fits securely and comfortably for providing an effective treatment environment. The band 101 is incorporated with an ultrasonic sensor 102 for monitoring the dimensions of the body part affected by the fungal infection. The ultrasonic sensor 102 continuously collects data about the physical characteristics of the body part, such as its size, shape, and any variations due to swelling, inflammation, or other changes caused by the infection. The collected data is then sent to an inbuilt microcontroller, which processes the information in real time. Based on the sensor 102 readings, the microcontroller determines whether the band 101 needs adjustment to ensure it fits appropriately on the user’s body part.

[0025] To facilitate this, the band 101 is equipped with multiple extendable plates 103. These plates 103 are integrated into the structure of the band 101 and are developed to expand or contract based on the size and shape of the affected area. The microcontroller actuates these plates 103, causing them to extend or retract in response to the ultrasonic sensor’s readings. This adjustment ensures that the band 101 remains comfortably fitted to the body part in view of offering adequate coverage and support for the infected area. The band 101 is also equipped with an electromagnetic strip 104 which is primarily developed to assist in ensuring the secure attachment of the band 101 to the user’s body part. The strip 104 provides gentle magnetic forces that help to hold the band 101 in place without the need for tight or uncomfortable fastenings, such as straps or adhesives. This helps to improve the comfort and wearability of the device, especially for long-term use. The strip 104 also enhances the fitting process by allowing for subtle adjustments to be made without causing discomfort, thus ensuring a snug fit.

[0026] As the extendable plates 103 adjust to the dimensions of the body part, the strip 104 helps to keep the band 101 securely positioned and prevents any unintended movement or shifting that compromise the effectiveness of the treatment. This ensures that the treatment process is not interrupted by discomfort or improper placement of the band 101, making this more efficient and effective in combating the fungal infection.

[0027] A bottom open chamber 105 is arranged on the band 101 and equipped with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 to interact directly with the user’s skin to monitor the condition of the user’s skin and provide real-time, personalized treatment. The imaging unit 106 is responsible for capturing multiple high-resolution images of the skin in the vicinity of the chamber 105, specifically focusing on the infected area. The images are taken continuously or at regular intervals for allowing the device to observe any changes in the infection’s progression over time. The imaging unit 106 is powered by a processor that is capable of analyzing these images in real time and uses image recognition protocols, trained to identify specific signs of fungal infection, such as redness, discoloration, and the distinct patches commonly associated with such conditions.

[0028] The images are processed and interpreted by the AI imaging unit 106, which detects and locates the fungal patches on the user’s skin. The imaging unit 106 identify the size, shape, and distribution of these patches for providing critical data about the infection’s spread and severity. This real-time analysis ensures that the treatment is targeted precisely where it is needed, and that any changes in the condition of the infection are noted promptly. In addition to the imaging unit 106, the chamber 105 houses a sensing module, which works in parallel with the imaging unit 106 to assess the severity of the infection. This sensing module consists of multiple sensors such as a thermal sensor, a color sensor, and a biosensor. Each of these sensors is specifically developed to detect different indicators of infection for providing a comprehensive understanding of the condition of the skin.

[0029] The thermal sensor mentioned herein measures the temperature of the skin in the affected area. Fungal infections often lead to localized inflammation, which is associated with an increase in skin temperature. By monitoring these temperature fluctuations, the sensor helps to identify areas of heightened infection or inflammation, which require more intensive treatment. The temperature data collected by the thermal sensor is sent to the microcontroller, which integrates it with the other sensor readings for a more accurate analysis of the infection’s severity.

[0030] The color sensor detects changes in the color of the skin, which is one of the most visible signs of fungal infections. Fungal patches often appear as discolored areas on the skin, ranging from red or pink to white, brown, or even gray, depending on the type and stage of infection. The color sensor allows the device to accurately assess the extent of discoloration in the affected area and provides the microcontroller with vital input on the severity of the infection.

[0031] On the other hand, the biosensor is specifically developed to detect biochemical markers associated with the fungal infection and analyze factors such as the presence of fungi, the breakdown of skin tissues, or other indicators of infection that are not visible to the naked eye. The biosensor provides additional, deeper insights into the infection that complements the data provided by the thermal and color sensors. This helps ensure that the device does not miss any subtle signs of infection that affect the treatment outcome. Together, the imaging unit 106 and sensing module work seamlessly to create a comprehensive picture of the infection’s status. The microcontroller, which is the central processing unit of the device, receives all of the data from the sensors and the AI imaging unit 106. Using this information, the microcontroller evaluates the severity of the infection and determines the most appropriate anti-fungal treatment for the user’s specific condition.

[0032] The microcontroller, after evaluating the infection, makes decisions about the type of anti-fungal ointment that is to used, selecting it from a pre-fed set of treatments based on the data gathered from the sensing and imaging unit 106. This personalized approach ensures that the ointment chosen is suited to the user’s specific infection for improving the chances of successful treatment. The microcontroller adjusts the treatment protocol dynamically, as new data is captured in view of ensuring that the user receives the most effective and targeted care based on the real-time condition of their infection.

[0033] A non-contact moisture sensor 107 is integrated into the chamber 105 that works in conjunction with sensing module and imaging unit 106 to provide optimal treatment for fungal infections. Moisture aids in development and persistence of fungal infections, as fungi thrive in warm, damp environments. Therefore, controlling moisture levels around the infected area is essential for promoting healing and preventing the infection from worsening or spreading. The moisture sensor 107 continuously monitors the levels of moisture on or near the infected patches on the user’s skin for providing real-time data on the skin’s hydration status.

[0034] The sensor 107 is developed to be non-contact which means that the sensor 107 does not physically touch the skin but instead uses a means such as capacitive sensing to detect moisture levels in the air or surface of the skin. This ensures that the device monitor the moisture without causing any discomfort or risk of contamination. The sensor 107 measures the presence of moisture around the infected area, detecting even slight changes in the humidity or moisture content, which is indicative of skin hydration, perspiration, or moisture accumulation due to the infection itself.

[0035] The data gathered by the moisture sensor 107 is sent to the device’s microcontroller, where it is analyzed alongside the information obtained from the AI imaging unit 106 and sensing module. High moisture levels in the vicinity of the infected skin patches often create an ideal environment for fungal growth, potentially exacerbating the infection. Therefore, the microcontroller uses the moisture level data to determine if any action is required to reduce excessive moisture and improve the conditions for healing. If the moisture levels are found to be higher than optimal, the microcontroller activates multiple motorized iris lids 108 that are integrated on the lateral sides of the chamber 105. These iris lids 108 function like adjustable vents or shutters, capable of opening and closing in response to changes in the moisture levels detected by the sensor 107. The iris lids 108 are developed to provide controlled and precise adjustment of the lids, allowing the device to regulate airflow around the infected area effectively. When the moisture sensor 107 detects excessive moisture, the microcontroller triggers the iris lids 108 to open, allowing fresh air to circulate freely around the skin patches. This enhanced airflow helps to evaporate excess moisture, reducing the humidity in the immediate vicinity of the infection.

[0036] By maintaining proper ventilation, the device helps to create a drier environment that discourages fungal growth. This is particularly important because fungal infections thrive in moist conditions, and keeping the skin patches dry significantly slow down the progression of the infection. The iris lids 108, which adjusts based on real-time sensor feedback, ensures that the skin remains in an optimal state for healing, neither too dry nor too moist. The use of motorized iris lids 108 allows for dynamic and responsive adjustments. The moisture sensor 107 continually monitors the skin's hydration levels, and as these levels fluctuate, the microcontroller continuously adjusts the opening of the iris lids 108.

[0037] For example, if the skin becomes too dry, the microcontroller reduces the airflow by partially closing the lids to retain some moisture, ensuring that the skin does not become excessively dehydrated, which cause irritation or damage. This fine-tuned regulation is essential for providing the most effective healing environment for the user’s skin, as it balances the need for moisture reduction with the necessity of maintaining skin health.

[0038] By syncing the non-contact moisture sensor 107 with the imaging unit 106 and the other sensing module, the device assesses both the visual state of the infection and the moisture levels at the same time. This approach allows the microcontroller to make informed decisions about when to adjust the moisture levels and how to optimize the healing environment. A multi-sectioned container 109 housed inside the chamber 105 allows for precise and controlled dispensing of anti-fungal ointment directly onto the user’s skin. The container 109 is developed to hold different types of anti-fungal ointments, such as hydrazine, 1,2,4 triazole, and 1,3,4 oxadiazol, which are stored in separate sections within the container 109. Each section holds a specific type of ointment, which is selected based on the analysis performed by the device’s imaging unit 106 and sensing module. These anti-fungal compounds are selected for their known effectiveness in treating various types of fungal infections, and the device allows for customized treatment depending on the infection's severity, type, and stage. The multi-sectioned container 109 ensures that each ointment is dispensed in the correct amount and at the right time for maximum efficacy, helping to combat the fungal infection and prevent its spread.

[0039] The container 109 is integrated with a set of electronically controlled nozzles 110, each of which is capable of dispensing the anti-fungal ointment directly onto the affected skin. These nozzles 110 are regulated by the device’s microcontroller, which processes data to determine exactly how much ointment is to be dispensed and when. The microcontroller controls the nozzles’ operation in a highly precise manner for ensuring that the correct quantity of the selected ointment is applied to the infection site without over-application or wastage which is then spread evenly by the user itself accordingly. This level of control is essential for both the effective treatment of the infection and the prevention of any side effects that arise from excessive ointment application.

[0040] In addition to dispensing the ointment, the device has the capability to detect the infection-affected area in proximity to the user’s fungal patch. Once the infection area has been mapped and its severity assessed, the microcontroller processes this data to regulate the dispensing of the anti-fungal ointment. Based on the size and extent of the infection, the device determines the appropriate amount of ointment needed to effectively combat the fungi. The microcontroller then actuates the nozzles 110 accordingly, ensuring that the ointment is delivered precisely where it is most needed. For example, if the infection has spread to surrounding areas that are at risk of becoming affected, the device adjusts the dispensing process to cover not only the directly infected area but also the nearby regions to prevent further spread of the infection. The microcontroller’s ability to control the nozzles 110 based on real-time sensor data allows for highly targeted treatment, ensuring that the anti-fungal ointment is applied evenly and effectively across the infected skin.

[0041] The electronically controlled nozzles 110 are developed to release the anti-fungal ointment in a controlled manner, ensuring that each application is both efficient and hygienic. The nozzles 110 are typically developed to create a thin layer of ointment for ensuring even distribution over the affected skin surface. This controlled dispensing helps to avoid waste and ensures that the user receives the optimal amount of medication.

[0042] The inclusion of hydrazine, 1,2,4 triazole, and 1,3,4 oxadiazol in the anti-fungal ointment container 109 adds to the versatility and effectiveness of the treatment. Each of these compounds has specific antifungal properties, targeting different types of fungal organisms that cause skin infections. Hydrazine, for example, has known antifungal and antimicrobial properties that help to inhibit the growth of certain fungal pathogens. 1,2,4 Triazole is commonly used in the treatment of fungal infections, especially for its ability to disrupt the synthesis of essential fungal cell membrane components. Similarly, 1,3,4 oxadiazol is another antifungal agent known for its activity against a range of dermatophytes and yeast-like fungi. The microcontroller is able to select the most appropriate ointment from these options based on the infection’s type, severity, and area of growth. By continuously monitoring the infection, detecting its spread, and dispensing the appropriate ointment precisely when and where it is needed, the device prevents the infection from spreading to surrounding areas and helps to reduce the overall duration of the infection, accelerating the healing process and improving the user’s comfort and well-being.

[0043] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the user as disclosed in the invention wears the band 101 on the affected body. Herein, the ultrasonic sensor 102 continuously monitors the dimensions of the area. Based on this data, the microcontroller actuates the extendable plates 103 to ensure proper fit on the body part. The device then utilizes AI-based imaging unit 106 integrated into the bottom open chamber 105 to capture and process images around the infection area, identifying the fungal patches. The sensing module, which includes thermal, color, and biosensors, assesses the severity of the infection, while the non-contact moisture sensor 107 monitors moisture levels near the patches. If excess moisture is detected, the microcontroller activates motorized iris lids 108 on the chamber's sides to maintain air circulation, helping to reduce moisture around the infected area. The microcontroller then selects the appropriate anti-fungal ointment, stored in the multi-sectioned container 109 inside the chamber 105, based on the infection’s severity. The series of electronically controlled nozzles 110 dispense the ointment directly onto the skin, targeting the infected area. The device detects any surrounding infection-prone areas and regulates the amount of ointment dispensed to prevent the infection from spreading.

[0044] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An adaptable fungal infection combatting device, comprising:

i) a band 101 developed to be worn by a user on said user’s body part having fungal infection, wherein said band 101 is integrated with an ultrasonic sensor 102 for monitoring dimensions of said user’s body part, in accordance to which an inbuilt microcontroller actuates multiple extendable plates 103 integrated on said band 101 to get extended for getting properly accommodated on said user’s body part;
ii) a bottom open chamber 105 arranged at said band 101 and installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said chamber 105, respectively to determine patches on said user’s skin, wherein a sensing module is integrated in said chamber 105 for monitoring severity of infection caused on said user’s skin, in accordance to which said microcontroller evaluates a kind of anti-fungal ointment suitable for said user’s skin infection;
iii) a non-contact moisture sensor 107 integrated in said chamber 105 and synced with said imaging unit 106 for monitoring moisture level on/nearby said patches, in accordance to which said microcontroller actuates multiple motorized iris lids 108 integrated on lateral sides of said chamber 105 to maintain air circulation around said user’s skin patches in order to reduce said monitored moisture level; and
iv) a multi-sectioned container 109 arranged inside said chamber 105 and integrated with plurality of electronically controlled nozzles 110 that are actuated by said microcontroller to dispense said evaluated kind of anti-fungal ointment onto said user’s skin for combatting said user’s fungal infection, wherein said sensing module is also capable of detecting infection affected area in proximity to said user’s fungal patch, based on which said microcontroller regulates dispensing of a regulated amount of ointment on said user’s skin in order to prevent any chances of spread of said infection to nearby affected areas.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module includes a thermal sensor, color sensor and a biosensor.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said anti-fungal ointments stored in said container 109 includes hydrazine, 1,2,4 triazole and 1,3,4 oxadiazol.