Beautech BIO-LIGHT
A Rotating System for Various Areas
Written by: Seongjin Hwang (Director of Flore Clinic)
Introduction to the Device and Its Features
When a golf club’s driver distance doesn't increase or its direction keeps going off-course, golfers typically make adjustments. This process, known as fitting, helps them find the right balance of center of gravity, shaft length, and elasticity. In the case of medical devices, however, the notion that the device itself is not to blame, and only the technician's skills are the variables, doesn’t always hold true. If the handpiece is too heavy, it will eventually strain the arm. Even if there is no shaking of the hands, one could end up in a situation where fine adjustments become impossible. For me, the essence of design is not just aesthetic beauty but practicality, keeping the user’s convenience in mind. The key keyword in medical device design is convenience.
ViewTech's Low-Level Laser BIO-LIGHT is a PDT (Photodynamic Therapy) device that features red (660nm) and blue (435nm) wavelengths. It is effective for acne treatment and skin regeneration after various procedures. A major advantage is that it doesn't require additional personnel to operate, making it convenient for ordering. Compared to other devices that require manual handling, BIO-LIGHT is much more user-friendly, and even the staff appreciates this.
Reasons Why Technicians Find It Convenient
The BIO-LIGHT’s convenience can be attributed to several features. Firstly, the stand has wheels, making it easy to move the device around. While portable devices are usually lightweight and compact, staff still have to lift and move them, which can sometimes be inconvenient. The ultimate decision depends on the clinic's layout and pricing program, but it's clear that it’s much easier to push the device than to lift it.
Secondly, the device has an analog rotary switch to adjust the LED brightness, rather than a digital button interface. This debunks the misconception that digital is always more convenient than analog. Just as Apple’s iPod used a touch-rotary interface, the best design doesn’t always follow trends.
Finally, another great feature is the head’s ability to rotate easily. BIO-LIGHT’s rotating system allows it to be used on various areas of the body, such as the face, chest, back, and abdomen. The main body has a frame that rotates 360°, and the head rotates 90°. This feature was inspired by feedback from staff during training on how to use the device. This idea broadens the scope of LED therapy beyond the face to include other body areas like the back, chest, and abdomen, creating a more flexible treatment program. The metabolic mechanism may fall within the doctor’s domain, but the process of expanding a device's functionality benefits greatly from input and experience from the staff.
Considerations for Treatment
There are also some downsides to consider. Some have mentioned that the rotating mechanism feels somewhat clunky since it is not powered by a motor or a flexible hinge system. Ideally, we’d be able to balance both functionality and performance, but sometimes focusing on one aspect is necessary. Ultimately, the right decision depends on the specific conditions of each clinic, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.
Another potential downside is that the BIO-LIGHT device only has two wavelengths: 660nm (red) and 435nm (blue). Some patients who have previously used devices with additional wavelengths, such as IR, yellow, or green, may desire more variety. Even if the clinical effectiveness of red and blue has been well documented, patients who seek more color options might be more satisfied with a cheaper color therapy device. In this case, offering additional color options can help support the doctor’s mental well-being and satisfy the patient’s preferences.
Convenience is Not Always the Top Priority When Choosing a Device
Convenience is not always the most important criterion when selecting a device. For example, some devices emphasize user convenience by using touch screens for control panels. However, if the screen malfunctions, it can be very costly to replace the entire screen. Since these touch panels tend to be used frequently, their durability is typically lower than that of regular switches. If this issue can be addressed with careful management and staff training, then touch screens can still be a highly attractive feature.
