Prediction of UV performance of sunscreen

Abstract

The present invention relates to the development of sunscreen filter compositions. In order to accurately determine a sunscreen filter composition having a certain formulation type, a computer-implemented method (200) for determining the performance of a sunscreen product comprising at least one UV filter is provided, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing (210) a computational model to calculate a performance index of the sunscreen product, the calculation model applies the continuous film thickness distribution defined by the gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen product; b) providing (220) a desired formulation type of the sunscreen product; c) adapting (230) a shape parameter c of the gamma profile to the desired formulation type; d) determining (240) a performance index of the UV filter composition of the desired formulation type using the adapted shape parameter of the gamma profile; and e) providing (250) a determined performance index of a sunscreen product having the desired formulation type, which performance index is preferably useful for manufacturing the sunscreen product, where the shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration TFC, where the function is a saturation-like function having a larger slope at lower TFC and a smaller slope at higher TFC, where the shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration TFC. And in terms of the performance index of the sunscreen product, the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a computer-implemented method and device for determining the properties of a sunscreen product comprising at least one UV filter, a method and device for manufacturing a sunscreen product, a method and device for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product, a computer program element, and a computer-readable medium. Background Art

[0002] Sunscreen filter compositions are prepared from a variety of different UV filter substances, which are known to have different UV absorption properties. When creating a sunscreen filter composition, the designer selects the various substances and combines them in order to achieve the desired sun protection properties.

[0003] Today, sunscreen developers can use calculation tools, such as BASF's Sunscreen Simulator (https: / / sunscreensimulator.basf.com / Sunscreen_Simulator / login), which can predict the sunscreen performance of UV filter combinations. Currently, the calculation of sunscreen performance is based only on filter combinations. For example, calculation methods for calculating UV protection performance are available in B. Herzog and U. Osterwalder, Pure and Applied Chemistry 87, 937 (2015). However, the medium used by the filter may affect the sunscreen performance, so different formulations with the same UV filter combination may show different sunscreen performance.

[0004] Therefore, current computational tools may have difficulty accurately assessing the sunscreen performance of a particular formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water fluid, oil-in-water cream, etc.). Therefore, extensive in vivo testing must be performed. Summary of the invention

[0005] It may be desirable to accurately determine the sun protection performance of a sunscreen filter composition for a particular formulation type.

[0006] The objects of the invention are achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims, wherein further embodiments are contained in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the aspects of the invention described below also apply to a computer-implemented method and apparatus for determining the properties of a sunscreen product comprising at least one UV filter, a method and apparatus for manufacturing a sunscreen product, a method and apparatus for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product, a computer program element and a computer-readable medium.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-implemented method for determining the performance of a sunscreen product comprising at least one UV filter, the method comprising the following steps:

[0008] a) providing (210) a computational model to calculate a performance index of a sunscreen product, wherein the computational model uses a continuous film thickness distribution defined by a gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen product;

[0009] b) providing (220) a desired formulation type for the sunscreen product;

[0010] c) adapting (230) the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution to the desired formulation type;

[0011] d) determining (240) a performance index of the UV filter composition of the desired formulation type using the adapted shape parameters of the gamma distribution; and

[0012] e) providing (250) a determined performance index of a sunscreen product having the desired formulation type, the performance index preferably being useful for manufacturing the sunscreen product,

[0013] wherein the shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration (TFC), wherein the function is a quasi-saturation function having a larger slope at lower TFCs and a smaller slope at higher TFCs, and wherein the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type with respect to the performance index of the sunscreen product.

[0014] The calculation of sun protection performance is currently determined based on the properties of the UV filter(s) (e.g. extinction, photostability alone or in combination) and a model describing the applied sunscreen layer, since the UV transmittance depends on the thickness and thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen layer. The gamma distribution model is an asymmetric distribution suitable for describing the profile of a film applied with sunscreen, which contains adjustable shape parameters so that the calculated sun protection performance of a series of test sunscreens matches as closely as possible a reference sun protection performance, which can be, for example, an in vivo sun protection factor (SPF) (ISO 24444).

[0015] The computer-implemented methods and apparatus as described herein adapt the shape parameter c in the model describing the applied sunscreen layer for different formulation types (also referred to as formulation vehicles) as a reference so that the determined sun protection performance takes into account the formulation type or formulation vehicle (e.g., oil-in-water fluid, oil-in-water cream, etc.) in addition to the properties of the UV filters.

[0016] The shape parameter c is a quasi-saturation function of the TFC. If the at least one UV filter composition comprises one UV filter, the TFC can be expressed as the concentration of the UV filter in percentage (weight / volume). If the at least one UV filter composition comprises two or more UV filters, each UV filter having a respective concentration in percentage, the TFC is the sum of the concentrations of the two or more UV filters in percentage.

[0017] Examples of quasi-saturation functions are described below. Figure 5A An exemplary quasi-saturation function is shown in FIG. As will be described below and with particular reference to Figure 5A and Figure 5B As explained in detail, in terms of the performance index of a sunscreen product, the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type (or formulation vehicle). By adjusting only this amplitude, the problem of the crossing of the curves of the shape parameters when plotted against the total filter concentration of different formulation types (or formulation vehicles) can be overcome.

[0018] Since the formulation type can be selected, the desired solution can be tailored to the needs of the user. The desired solution can also reduce the discrepancy between the calculated sun protection performance and the in vivo measured sun protection performance, thereby reducing extensive in vivo testing at the user level.

[0019] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Figure 3 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0020] In addition, the calculated performance index of the determined sunscreen product can be used to control or verify the manufacture of the sunscreen product and thus can reduce the number of test runs required to manufacture the desired sunscreen product. This will be discussed below and in particular with reference to Figures 7 to 10 The example shown in is discussed in detail.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the performance index includes a sun protection factor (SPF) and / or a UVA protection factor (UVA-PF).

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the quasi-saturation function includes:

[0023]

[0024] Where c is the shape parameter and a1, a2, a3 and a4 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type.

[0025] It is observed that when containing the same UV filter composition, certain formulation types always show higher in vivo SPF than other formulation types. In order to take into account the different behaviors of different formulation types, the shape parameter c of each formulation type is determined. The shape parameter c can include a specific set a1, a2, a3 and a4 of adjustable parameters for each formulation type. When the shape parameters are drawn relative to TFC, these parameters determine the form of the curve. The higher the shape parameter, the higher the calculated SPF. The calculated SPF can also be referred to as simulated SPF or estimated SPF.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable parameters a1, a2, a3 and a4 may have the following ranges:

[0027] -0.35≤a1≤0.6;

[0028] -0.3≤a2≤0.68;

[0029] -0.9≤a3≤1.5; and

[0030] -a4≤8.

[0031] As will be explained in detail below and with particular reference to Tables 1 to 3, improved accuracy for determining the performance index may be achieved using adjustable parameters within the preferred ranges described above.

[0032] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the quasi-saturation function includes:

[0033]

[0034] Where c is the shape parameter and a1, a2, a3, a4 and a5 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type.

[0035] In this example, the saturation-like function further includes a parameter a5, which is only required when the filter composition contains UV absorbers in both the oil phase and in the water phase, wherein REAE means relative erythema active extinction in the oil phase and relates to the increase in the performance index that can be obtained when the filter is present in both the oil phase and the water phase of the emulsion (B. Herzog and U. Osterwalder, Pure and Applied Chemistry 87, 937 (2015).). The parameter a5 can vary between 0 and 1. These parameters are determined for each formulation type. If the filter system of the formulation contains only water-phase UV filters or only oil-phase UV filters, the parameter a5 can be ignored.

[0036] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the parameters a1, a2, a3, a4 and a5 may have the following ranges:

[0037] -0.35≤a1≤0.6;

[0038] -0.3≤a2≤0.68;

[0039] -0.9≤a3≤1.5;

[0040] -a4≤8; and

[0041] -0≤a5≤1.

[0042] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the quasi-saturation function includes:

[0043] c=a1+a2·(1-e (-TFC·a6) )

[0044] Wherein c is the shape parameter, a1, a2 and a6 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type, and the parameters a1 and a2 are in the same range as described above, and 0.1≤a6≤0.9.

[0045] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the quasi-saturation function includes:

[0046]

[0047] Wherein, c is the shape parameter, a1, a2 and a6 are adjustable parameters in the same range as described in the above embodiment, and 0≤a5≤1.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the performance index includes a sun protection factor (SPF) and / or a UVA protection factor (UVA-PF).

[0049] In an example, the formulation type includes a formulation containing water or a formulation not containing water.

[0050] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the formulation type (or formulation vehicle) includes one or more of the following: oil-in-water fluid emulsion, oil-in-water cream emulsion, water-in-oil emulsion, oil-in-water-in-oil emulsion, water-in-oil-in-water emulsion, water-in-silicone emulsion, silicone-in-water emulsion, polymer gel cream, lipophilic single-phase oil, lipophilic single-phase gel, lipophilic single-phase stick, lipophilic-alcohol mixture, hydrophilic single-phase fluid, hydrophilic single-phase gel and powder.

[0051] The formulation may be a spray, cream, lotion, mousse (foam), powder, etc., and may be packaged accordingly in a bottle, can, pump sprayer or aerosol with a suitable applicator.

[0052] Hydrophilicity refers to water and compounds that are soluble or miscible in water.

[0053] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4CAn exemplary embodiment of an interactive user interface that enables interaction between formulation types and performance indices to be evaluated is presented.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the parameters of the function determining the adapted shape parameters are derived from experimental data of SPF and / or UVA-PF.

[0055] Experimental data for SPF and / or UVA-PF may be in vivo and / or in vitro.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sunscreen product further comprises one or more cosmetic ingredients.

[0057] Examples of cosmetic ingredients may include, but are not limited to, emulsifiers, emulsifying polymers, emollients, hydrophilic humectants, waxes, thickening polymers, consistency enhancers, silicon-based compounds, pH adjusters, active substances, preservatives, and fragrances.

[0058] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a sunscreen product, the method comprising the following steps:

[0059] - providing a composition of the type of formulation comprising one or more UV filter substances;

[0060] - determining a calculated performance index for a desired sunscreen product according to the method of the first aspect and any associated examples; and

[0061] - Use of compositions comprising one or more UV filter substances within this formulation type for the manufacture of sun protection products.

[0062] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Figure 7 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0063] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises:

[0064] - provide measured performance indices of manufactured sunscreen products; and

[0065] - Comparing the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product with the calculated performance index of the desired sunscreen product to determine whether the manufactured sunscreen product meets predetermined quality standards.

[0066] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises:

[0067] In response to determining that the manufactured sunscreen product meets the predetermined quality standard, generating a control signal that can be used to control the production process; or

[0068] In response to determining that the manufactured sunscreen product does not meet the predetermined quality standard, a warning signal is generated that can be used to indicate that the manufactured product is invalid and / or an optimization signal is generated that can be used to change the provided composition so that the manufactured sunscreen product meets the predetermined quality standard.

[0069] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Figure 7 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0070] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product, the method comprising the following steps:

[0071] - providing a composition of a formulation type comprising one or more UV filter substances, wherein the provided composition differs from the composition of currently produced sunscreen products by at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type;

[0072] - determining the computational performance of a provided composition according to the first aspect and any associated examples;

[0073] - manufacturing a sunscreen product using a composition comprising one or more UV filter substances within this formulation type, wherein the manufactured composition differs from the composition of currently produced sunscreen products by the at least one different substance and / or the different formulation type; and

[0074] - comparing the measured performance index of the manufactured composition with the existing performance index of the existing sunscreen product in order to validate the at least one substance and / or the different formulation type.

[0075] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Figure 8 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0076] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for determining a performance index of a composition of a formulation type comprising one or more UV filter substances, the device comprising one or more processing units configured to determine a performance index of a composition of filter substances used to form a sunscreen composition, wherein the one or more processing units comprise instructions which, when executed on the one or more processing units, perform the method steps described in accordance with the first aspect and any associated examples.

[0077] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Figure 1 and Figure 2 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0078] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for manufacturing a sunscreen product, the apparatus comprising a monitoring device and a dosing device, the monitoring device being configured to control the dosing device to manufacture the sunscreen product.

[0079] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Fig. 9 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0080] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for verifying the manufacture of sunscreen products, the apparatus comprising one or more processing units configured to verify the production of sunscreen products, wherein the (multiple) processing units comprise instructions that, when executed on the one or more processing units, perform the method.

[0081] This will be referred to hereinafter and in particular Fig.10 The example shown in is explained in detail.

[0082] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program element comprising instructions which, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to perform the steps of the method of the first aspect and any associated examples.

[0083] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer readable medium having computer program elements stored thereon.

[0084] In an embodiment, the UV filter material may include a specific compound that blocks ultraviolet light from passing through. In other words, the UV filter material may include soluble or insoluble organic or inorganic agents that protect the skin from the damaging effects of sunlight (such as erythema) by absorbing or blocking ultraviolet radiation. Soluble agents work by absorbing UV rays, and insoluble agents or particulate agents work by absorbing and additionally reflecting and / or scattering UV rays. Different jurisdictions may allow different UV filter materials. The UV filters allowed for use in EU cosmetics are listed in Annex VI of Regulation "EC" No. 1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and the Council.

[0085] In embodiments, exemplary emulsifiers for forming an oil-in-water emulsion may include one or more of the following:

[0086] - glucose derivatives such as cetearyl glucoside, arachidonic glucoside, lauryl glucoside, cocoyl glucoside, polyglyceryl-3 methyl glucose distearate, glucose methyl sesquistearate;

[0087] - sucrose derivatives, such as sucrose polystearate, sucrose palmitate;

[0088] - sorbitol derivatives, such as polysorbate derivatives;

[0089] - inulin derivatives, such as inulin lauryl carbamate;

[0090] - glyceryl esters of fatty acids, such as glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE, glyceryl stearate citrate;

[0091] - Glutamic acid derivatives, such as sodium stearoyl glutamate;

[0092] - sulfosuccinic acid derivatives, such as disodium cetearyl sulfosuccinate;

[0093] - Phosphoric acid derivatives, such as potassium cetyl phosphate; ceteth-10 phosphate, C20-22 alkyl phosphate;

[0094] - Polyglyceryl fatty acid esters, such as polyglyceryl-10 stearate, polyglyceryl-6 behenate;

[0095] - Oxyalkylene fatty alcohols, such as ceteareth-20, steareth-21, beheneth-25;

[0096] -Oxyalkylene fatty acids, such as PEG-100 stearate;

[0097] - oxyalkylenated organomodified silicone / polysiloxane / polyalkyl / polyether copolymers and derivatives, such as PEG-12 dimethicone; and

[0098] - Phospholipids, such as phosphatidylcholine derivatives.

[0099] In embodiments, exemplary emulsifiers for forming water-in-oil emulsions may include one or more of the following:

[0100] - glycerides of fatty acids, such as olein, sorbitan laurate;

[0101] - sorbitan esters, such as sorbitan oleate;

[0102] - polyglyceryl fatty acid esters, such as polyglyceryl-3-diisostearate, polyglyceryl-2-dipolyhydroxystearate, polyglyceryl-4-isostearate;

[0103] - Oxyalkylene fatty alcohols, such as Steareth-2;

[0104] - oxyalkylene fatty acids, such as PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate; and

[0105] -Organomodified siloxane / polysiloxane / polyalkyl / polyether copolymers and derivatives, such as cetyl dimethicone copolyol, cetyl PEG / PPG-10 / 1 dimethicone, PEG-10 dimethicone.

[0106] In embodiments, exemplary lipophilic thickeners for increasing the viscosity of the emulsion may include one or more of the following:

[0107] - fatty alcohols, such as cetyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol; behenyl alcohol;

[0108] - fatty acids, such as stearic acid; palmitic acid;

[0109] - fatty acid esters, such as myristyl stearate, pentaerythritol distearate, cetyl palmitate; triphein, dextrin palmitate;

[0110] - waxes, such as beeswax, carnauba wax, microcrystalline wax, ceresin, ozocerite; rice wax, sunflower wax;

[0111] - Hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrogenated castor oil, hydrogenated vegetable glycerides;

[0112] - Hydrogenated castor oil / sebacic acid copolymer

[0113] - Polyacrylate C10-30 alkyl ester;

[0114] - polyamide derivatives, such as polyamide-8; and

[0115] - Based on silica derivatives, such as silicon dioxide, silica dimethyl silylate.

[0116] In embodiments, exemplary hydrophilic stabilizers / thickeners for increasing the viscosity of the emulsion may include one or more of the following:

[0117] - Natural gums, such as xanthan gum, tara gum, carrageenan;

[0118] - silicate derivatives, such as magnesium aluminum silicate;

[0119] - Cellulose derivatives, such as hydroxypropylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose;

[0120] - polyacrylic acid derivatives such as sodium polyacrylate, acrylates / C10-30 alkyl ester crosspolymer, carbomer, acrylates / beheneth-25 methacrylate copolymer, hydroxyethyl acrylate / sodium acryloyldimethyl taurate copolymer; and

[0121] - Starch derivatives, such as hydroxypropyl starch phosphate.

[0122] In embodiments, exemplary thickeners for obtaining an oleogel or for increasing the film formation of a lipophilic or lipophilic single phase may include one or more of the following:

[0123] - silica derivatives, such as silicon dioxide, silicon dimethyl silylate; and

[0124] - Polyacrylate C10-30 alkyl ester.

[0125] In an embodiment, the oil-in-water fluid (or lotion formulation type) may include formulations having a viscosity of up to 20,000 mPa.s, preferably up to 15,000 mPa.s, as measured at 25° C. using a Brookfield DVIII apparatus at a rotation speed of 10 per minute (10 rpm) using spindle RV5. When the formulation is too fluid to be measured using the RV5 spindle, it may be necessary to use spindle LV3.

[0126] In embodiments, the cream may include a visually (by the naked eye) firm formulation that does not flow from a bottle and has a viscosity above 20,000 mPa.s as measured at 25°C, for example using a Brookfield DVIII apparatus at a rotation speed of 10 per minute (10 rpm) using spindle RV5 or RV6.

[0127] In an embodiment, the input unit may include, but is not limited to, any item or element forming a boundary configured for transmitting information. In particular, the input unit may be configured to transmit information to a computing device, such as a computer, in order to receive information. The input unit is preferably a separate unit configured to receive information or transmit information to a computing device, such as one or more of the following: an interface, in particular a web interface and / or a data interface; a keyboard; a terminal; a touch screen or any other input device deemed appropriate by the skilled person. More preferably, the input unit includes or is configured to transmit or exchange information as specified below. The data interface.

[0128] In an embodiment, the output unit may include, but is not limited to, any item or element that forms a boundary configured to transmit information. In particular, the output unit may be configured to transmit information from a computing device (e.g., a computer), such as sending or outputting information to, for example, another device (e.g., a control unit) that controls and / or monitors the production process of the produced composition. The output unit is preferably a separate unit configured to output or transmit information from a computing device, such as one or more of the following: an interface, specifically a web interface and / or a data interface; a screen, a printer or a touch screen or any other output device that the technician deems appropriate. More preferably, the output unit includes or is configured to transmit or exchange a data interface of information as specified below.

[0129] Preferably, the input unit and the output unit are configured as at least one or at least two separate data interfaces; that is, preferably, a data transmission connection is provided, such as wireless transmission, Internet transmission, Bluetooth, NFC, inductive coupling, etc. As an example, the data transmission connection can be or can include at least one port, the at least one port including one or more of a network or Internet port, a USB port and a disk drive. The input unit and / or the output unit can also be at least one web interface.

[0130] In an embodiment, a processing unit may include, but is not limited to, any logic circuit system configured to perform the operation of a computer or system, and / or generally refers to a device or unit thereof configured to perform a calculation or logic operation. A processing unit may include at least one processor. In particular, a processing unit may be configured to process basic instructions that drive a computer or system. As an example, a processing unit may include at least one arithmetic logic unit (ALU), at least one floating point unit (FPU) (such as a mathematical coprocessor or a digital coprocessor), a plurality of registers, and a memory (such as a cache memory). In particular, a processing unit may be a multi-core processor. A processing unit may include a central processing unit (CPU) and / or one or more graphics processing units (GPUs) and / or one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and / or one or more tensor processing units (TPUs) and / or one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc. A processing unit may be configured to preprocess input data. Preprocessing may include at least one filtering process for input data that meets at least one quality standard. For example, input data may be filtered to remove missing variables.

[0131] It should be understood that all combinations of the aforementioned concepts and the additional concepts discussed in more detail below (provided that these concepts are not mutually contradictory) are considered to be part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are considered to be part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein.

[0132] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0133] In the drawings, like reference numerals generally refer to the same parts throughout the different views. Also, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention.

[0134] Figure 1 A block diagram of an exemplary apparatus for determining the performance of a sunscreen product including at least one UV filter is presented.

[0135] Figure 2 An exemplary computer network environment or embodiments implementing the present disclosure are schematically depicted.

[0136] Figure 3 A flow chart describing a computer-implemented method for determining the performance of a sunscreen product including at least one UV filter is presented.

[0137] Figure 4A An exemplary embodiment of an interactive user interface that enables interaction between formulation types and performance indices to be evaluated is presented.

[0138] Figure 4B Another exemplary embodiment of an interactive user interface that enables interaction between evaluation of formulation types and performance indices is presented.

[0139] Figure 4C Additional exemplary embodiments of interactive user interfaces that enable interaction between evaluation formulation types and performance indices are presented.

[0140] Figure 5A The curves of the shape parameter c for different formulation types are shown, wherein the amplitude of the function has no clear relationship to the performance of the formulation type in terms of the performance index of the sunscreen product.

[0141] Figure 5B The curves of the shape parameter c for different formulation types are shown, wherein the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type in terms of the performance index of the sunscreen product.

[0142] Figure 6 An example of a curve of the shape parameter c given by the following equations (6) and (8) plotted against TFC is shown.

[0143] Figure 7 A flow chart describing a method for providing a method for manufacturing a sun protection product is presented.

[0144] Figure 8An example of a flow chart describing a method for verifying the manufacture of a sun protection product is shown.

[0145] Fig. 9 An example of a production line with a monitoring device for manufacturing sun protection products is shown.

[0146] Fig.10 Another example of a production line with a verification device for manufacturing sun protection products is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0147] Figure 1 A block diagram of an exemplary apparatus 10 for determining the performance of a sunscreen product comprising at least one UV filter is shown. The apparatus 10 comprises an input unit 12, a processing unit 14 and an output unit 16.

[0148] In general, the apparatus 10 may include various physical and / or logical components for communicating and manipulating information, which may be implemented as hardware components (e.g., computing devices, processors, logic devices), executable computer program instructions (e.g., firmware, software) to be executed by various hardware components, or any combination thereof, as desired for a given set of design parameters or performance constraints. Figure 1 A limited number of components may be shown as an example, but it is understood that a greater or lesser number of components may be employed for a given implementation.

[0149] In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 may be implemented as or in a device or apparatus, such as a server, a workstation, or a mobile device. The apparatus 10 may include one or more microprocessors or computer processors that execute appropriate software. The processing unit 14 of the apparatus 10 may be implemented by one or more of these processors. The software may have been downloaded and / or stored in a corresponding memory, for example, a volatile memory such as RAM or a non-volatile memory such as flash memory. The software may include instructions that configure one or more processors to perform the functions described herein.

[0150] Note that the apparatus 10 may be implemented with or without a processor, and may also be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware that performs certain functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) that performs other functions. For example, the functional units of the apparatus 10 (e.g., input unit 12, one or more processing units 14, and output unit 16) may be implemented in a device or apparatus in the form of programmable logic (e.g., as a field programmable gate array (FPGA)). In general, each functional unit of the apparatus may be implemented in the form of a circuit.

[0151] In some embodiments, the device 10 may also be implemented in a distributed manner. For example, some or all units of the device 10 may be arranged as separate modules in a distributed architecture and connected in a suitable communication network, such as a third generation partnership project (3GPP) network, a long term evolution (LTE) network, the Internet, a LAN (local area network), a wireless LAN (local area network), a WAN (wide area network), etc.

[0152] The processing unit(s) 14 may execute instructions to perform the methods described herein, which will be referred to herein. Figure 3 The examples shown in are explained in detail.

[0153] Figure 2 An exemplary computer network environment 100 is schematically depicted or implementing an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the system 100 includes a plurality of electronic communication devices 110, a decision support system 120, and a network 130. Although four electronic communication devices 110 are shown, any number of electronic communication devices 110 may be used.

[0154] A query may be transmitted from the electronic communication device 110 to the decision support system 120 via the network 130 to calculate one or more sun protection factors for the UV filter composition. The query may include information about the desired formulation type of the UV filter composition. Figure 2 In the example, Figure 1 The apparatus shown in can be implemented as a decision support system 120 or implemented in a decision support system. The apparatus 10 processes the query and determines the performance index of the sunscreen product. The result of the query is returned from the decision support system 120 to the electronic communication device 110 via the network 130. Figure 2 A single decision support system 120 is shown by way of example in FIG. 1 , but it should be understood that the functionality of the decision support system 120 may be distributed across multiple servers, which may be clustered, geographically distributed across the network 130, or any combination thereof.

[0155] The electronic communication device 110 may act as a terminal, a graphical display client, or other networked client to the decision support system 120. The electronic communication device 110 may include an application configured to interface with a web service provided by the decision support system 120. For example, a web browser application at the electronic communication device 110 may support interfacing with a web server application at the decision support system 120. Such a browser may use controls, plug-ins, or applets to support interfacing with the decision support system 120. The electronic communication device 110 may use other custom programs, applications, or modules to interface with the decision support system 120. The electronic communication device 110 may be a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a handheld device, a mobile device, a mobile phone, a server, a terminal, a thin client, or any other computerized device.

[0156] The network 130 can be any communication network capable of supporting the communication between the electronic communication device 110 and the decision support system 120. The network 130 can be wired, wireless, optical, radio, packet switching, circuit switching or any combination thereof. The network 130 can use any topology, and the link of the network 130 can support any networking technology, protocol or bandwidth, such as Ethernet, DSL, cable modem, ATM, SONET, MPLS, PSTN, POTS modem, PONS, HFC, satellite, ISDN, WiFi, WiMax, mobile cellular, any combination thereof, or any other data interconnection or networking mechanism. The network 130 can be an intranet, the Internet (or World Wide Web), a LAN, a WAN, a MAN or any other network for interconnecting computers. In order to support high capacity and load, a distributed computing environment can be implemented by using networking technologies, which can include but are not limited to TCP / IP, RPC, RMI, HTTP, web services (XML-RPC, JAX-RPC, SOAP, etc.).

[0157] It should be understood that, in addition to Figure 2 In addition to the illustrated network environment shown in FIG, the decision support system 120 and the electronic communication device 110 can be combined into a single computing device. Such a combined computing device can support the calculation of various sun protection factors of UV filter compositions.

[0158] Figure 3 A flow chart depicting a computer-implemented method 200 for determining the performance of a sunscreen product including at least one UV filter is shown.

[0159] At box 210, i.e., at step a), a computational model is provided to calculate a performance index of a sunscreen product. The computational model uses the properties of the UV filter(s) (e.g., extinction, photostability alone or in combination) and applies a gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the sunscreen product. In some examples, the computational model may be stored in Figure 2 The electronic communication device 110 may include a web browser application or other custom programs, applications or modules configured to interface with web services provided by the decision support system 120. Via the web browser application or other custom programs, applications or modules, a user may access or retrieve a computational model in the decision support system 120 using, for example, a username and password authentication.

[0160] Performance indices may include SPF and / or UVA-PF. For example, the basic principle of SPF calculation is to calculate the coefficient by which the intensity of UV radiation is reduced due to the presence of a sunscreen. This coefficient is given by the inverse of the UV transmittance of the absorbing film, 1 / T. At a specific wavelength λ, (1 / T(λ) is also designated as the monochromatic protection factor (MPF). Since the spectral range relevant for erythema formation is between 290 nm and 400 nm, the monochromatic protection factor should be averaged over this range. To obtain the SPF, this average should be used with the intensity S of the light source. s (λ) and erythema action spectrum S er (λ) is weighted to obtain the following equation:

[0161]

[0162] S s (λ) and S er Data on (λ) can be found, for example, in DL Diffey, J. Robson, J. Soc. Cosmet, Chem. [Journal of the American Chemical Society] 40, 127 (1989) and AF McKinlay, BL Diffey, CIE J. [Acta Electronica Sinica] 6 17 (1987). However, the T(λ) of the respective sunscreen must be determined by in vitro measurements or by calculation.

[0163] For example, the basic principle of the UVA-PF calculation (or PPD calculation) is similar to the calculation of the SPF, but differs in the spectral range used and the action spectrum used. The spectral range relevant for protection against UVA rays is between 320nm and 400nm. The monochromatic protection factors should be averaged over this range. To obtain the UVA-PF, this average should be calculated using the intensity S of the light source. s (λ) and the melanin persistence spectrum S PPD(λ) is weighted to obtain the following equation:

[0164]

[0165] When calculating the UV transmittance T(λ), the irregular film thickness distribution must be taken into account, since it is not possible to apply, for example, a sunscreen product with the same thickness evenly over the entire human skin, since the human skin itself exhibits a certain roughness. This is of the utmost importance, since the optical transmittance of an absorbing film of uniform thickness is lower than the optical transmittance of a corresponding irregular film of the same average thickness.

[0166] Several models have been published to describe the irregularity of sunscreen films, such as the model of Ferrero and colleagues, published in, for example, L. Ferrero, M. Pissavini, S. Marguerie, L. Zastrow. J. Cosmet, Sci [Journal of Cosmetic Science], 54, 63 (2003). In this model, the profile of the film becomes equivalent to the support area curve of Abbot and Firestone and is constructed based on a cumulative distribution function F(h) containing the film height h as a random variable. The gamma law can represent an asymmetric distribution, and f(h) is the associated probability density function:

[0167]

[0168] where h is the random variable "relative height", c is the shape parameter to be adjusted, b is required for normalization, and Γ(c) is the value of the gamma function at c. The cumulative height distribution F(h) is obtained by integrating f(h):

[0169]

[0170] To construct the film thickness profile, h is derived from its cumulative distribution F(h), ranging from 0 to 1. The transmittance of the film can then be calculated:

[0171]

[0172] The transmittance calculated via equation (5) can be input into equation (1) or equation (2) to obtain a calculated SPF value (referred to as computer-simulated SPF) or a calculated UVA-PF value (referred to as computer-simulated UVA-PF). Shape parameter c is a screw by which the calculation result can be adjusted to adapt to in vivo SPF and / or in vitro SPF.

[0173] At box 220, ie, at step b), a desired formulation type for a sunscreen product is provided.A graphical user interface may be used to provide an interactive user interface that allows a user to select one or more desired formulation types.

[0174] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C An exemplary embodiment of an interactive user interface that enables the interaction between formulation type and performance index to be evaluated is shown. The illustrated example interface displays multiple facets. For example, the facets depicted are "Filter Selection," "Formulation Type Selection," and "Performance Index." FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C In the example shown, the performance index is SPF. The layout, number and order of these facets and the specific names of these facets are presented only for the purpose of illustrating the concept. Of course, other layouts, numbers, orders or names of these facets can be dynamically displayed.

[0175] It should be understood that although FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , but the user may have the opportunity to select and define cosmetic ingredients for the sunscreen formulation, such as emulsifiers, emulsifying polymers, emollients, hydrophilic humectants, waxes, thickening polymers, consistency enhancers, silicon-based compounds, pH adjusters, active substances, preservatives and fragrances. One or more facets (not shown) may be provided to allow the user to select one or more desired ingredients and define the percentage of the selected ingredient(s).

[0176] Under the facet "Filter selection" the user has the opportunity to select one or more UV filters and define the percentage of each UV filter. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C In the example shown, the following UV filters were selected: BEMT (INCI: BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE), DHHB (INCI: DIETHYLAMINO HYDROXYBENZOYL HEXYL BENZOATE), EHS (INCI: ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE) and EHT (INCI: ETHYLHEXYL TRIAZINE).

[0177] Under the facet "Formulation Type Selection", the user is given the opportunity to select one or more formulation types. Examples of formulation types may include, but are not limited to, oil-in-water fluid emulsions, oil-in-water cream emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, oil-in-water-in-oil emulsions, water-in-oil-in-water emulsions, water-in-silicone emulsions, silicone-in-water emulsions, polymer gel creams, lipophilic single-phase oils, lipophilic single-phase gels, lipophilic single-phase sticks, lipophilic-alcohol mixtures, hydrophilic single-phase fluids, hydrophilic single-phase gels, and powders.

[0178] As in FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C As depicted in the example presented in , SPF values ​​are presented in the interface in response to a user-defined UV filter composition and a selected formulation type.

[0179] Return to Figure 3At block 230, i.e., at step c), the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution in equation (3) is adapted to the desired formulation type. The shape parameter c in equation (3) is not a simple constant, but a function of TFC. This function is a quasi-saturation function, which has a larger slope when TFC is low and a smaller slope when TFC is high, and the amplitude of this function is related to the performance of the formulation type in terms of the performance index of the sunscreen product.

[0180] In the example, the saturation-like function can be given by equation (6):

[0181]

[0182] Among them, a1, a2, a3, a4 and a5 are adjustable parameters, which are determined for each formulation type.

[0183] In another example, the saturation-like function can be given by equation (7):

[0184]

[0185] Wherein a1, a2, a3, a4 and a5 are used as adjustable parameters. Compared with equation (6), equation (7) further includes parameter a5, which is only required when the filter composition contains UV absorbers in both the oil phase and the water phase, wherein REAE means relative erythema active extinction in the oil phase and relates to the increase in performance index that can be obtained when the filter is present in both the oil phase and the water phase of the emulsion. These parameters are determined for each formulation type. If the filter system of the formulation contains only water phase filters or only oil phase filters, parameter a5 can be ignored.

[0186] Preferably, the adjustable parameter a1 of the shape parameter c is in the range of 0.35 to 0.60, the adjustable parameter a2 of the shape parameter c is in the range of 0.30 to 0.68, the adjustable parameter a3 of the shape parameter c is in the range of 0.90 to 1.50, the adjustable parameter a4 of the shape parameter c is lower than 8, preferably lower than 6 and most preferably lower than 4, and the adjustable parameter a5 of the shape parameter c is in the range of 0 to 1.

[0187] Another example of a quasi-saturation function can be given by equation (8):

[0188] c=a1+a2·(1-e (-TFC-a6) ) (8)

[0190] Wherein a1, a2, a6 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type. In equation (8), the parameters a1 and a2 have the same meanings as described for equations (6) and (7). The parameter a6 is decisive for the steepness of the function. The parameters a1 and a2 are in the same range as described for equations (6) and (7), and a6 is between 0.1 and 0.9.

[0191] Yet another example of a quasi-saturation function can be given by equation (9):

[0192]

[0193] Wherein a1, a2 and a6 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type. In equation (9), parameters a1, a2 and a6 have the same meanings as described with respect to equation (8), and parameter a5 has the same meaning as described with respect to equation (7). Parameters a1, a2 and a6 are within the same ranges as described with respect to equation (8), and 0≤a5≤1.

[0194] Figure 6 An example of a curve of the shape parameter c given by equations (6) and (8) plotted against TFC is shown. Figure 6 As shown, the curves of the shape parameters c of the two equations plotted against TFC have a larger slope when the TFC is low and a smaller slope when the TFC is high. The determined parameters of the quasi-saturation function (6) are a1=0.40, a2=0.62, a3=1.09 and a4=1.95. The determined parameters of the quasi-saturation function (8) are a1=0.37, a2=0.62 and a6=0.33.

[0195] The above exemplary saturation-like function describing the shape parameter c as a function of TFC can be predetermined for each of the different formulation types using appropriate formulations with a series of known SPF in vivo values ​​used as reference.

[0196] As an example, in equation (7), different formulation types with a series of known SPF in vivo values ​​are provided as references. Four parameters a1 to a4 are determined for each formulation type to obtain the best correlation between the computer-simulated SPF based on the determined a1 to a4 parameters and the in vivo SPF of these reference formulations. In this case, parameter a5 is set to a value of 0.5. When the filter system contains only water phase filters or conversely only oil phase filters, the second term in equation (7) containing parameter a5 will be zero. For this purpose, filter combinations with expected SPF values ​​of SPF 50, SPF 30 and SPF 15 (calculated using the sunscreen simulator of BASF (https: / / sunscreensimulator.basf.com / Sunscreen_Simulator / login)) were incorporated into different formulation types (or formulation vehicles) and the performance of each of these formulation types containing each filter combination (SPF expected value 50, SPF expected value 30 and SPF expected value 15) was measured in vivo in two different test institutes, twice in each institute, according to ISO 24444. As an example, the SPF obtained in vivo for a water-in-oil formulation type with an expected SPF of 15 is the average of four individual SPF measurements according to ISO 24444. Based on the determination of values ​​for parameters a1 to a4 for each formulation type, the SPF in vivo data obtained for all of these reference formulation types (or formulation vehicles) are used to determine a shape parameter c, which can then be used to predict the performance of any other filter combination intended to be incorporated into one of the formulation types (or formulation vehicles).

[0197] However, if Figure 5A As shown, when the shape parameter c of different formulation types is plotted against the total filter concentration (TFC), an unexpected problem is discovered. Figure 5A For the oil-in-water cream (O / W cream) and oil-in-water fluid (O / W fluid) shown in , the curves of shape parameter c plotted against TFC intersect each other. However, since the SPF of a certain formulation type should always be higher than the SPF of another formulation type over the entire TFC range, the curves of shape parameter c varying with TFC for different formulation types should not intersect.

[0198] Surprisingly, this problem can be overcome by applying the following strategy. The values ​​of a1, a3, a4 and a6 are kept at fixed values ​​regardless of the formulation type (or formulation vehicle), and only the value of a2 is different for each formulation type. In this way, it is ensured that the values ​​of different formulation types (such as Figure 5BThe curves for the shape parameter c plotted against TFC for the O / W cream and O / W fluid (shown in Figure 1) do not intersect each other. Using this method, the value of the shape parameter c can be determined for each formulation type (or formulation vehicle), and the accuracy of the resulting computer-simulated SPF is improved compared to previously known computer simulation methods, and is very close to the in vivo SPF of a set of reference formulations.

[0199] Thus, adjustable parameters a1, a3, a4 and a6 have the same value for each formulation type (or formulation vehicle), whereas adjustable parameter a2 varies from formulation type to formulation type. In other words, the magnitude of the saturation-like function is related to the performance of the formulation type in terms of a performance index (such as the SPF of a sunscreen product). In this way, the problem of the curves of the shape parameter c intersecting when plotted against TFC is overcome.

[0200] Different parameters a1 to a4 affect the curve of the shape parameter c in different ways. Parameter a1 determines the minimum value of the shape parameter c. Preferably, it does not fall below a certain value, because it can affect the simulation of filter combinations with low TFC and can lead to underestimation of the SPF values ​​of those combinations. For this reason, it is preferred that the value of parameter a1 is in the range of 0.35 to 0.60.

[0201] Parameters a3, a4 and a6 determine the functional form of the shape parameter c plotted relative to TFC, which means that they affect the steepness of c's variation with TFC. If the steepness is too high, the simulated SPF may be overestimated at low TFC and underestimated at high TFC. The two parameters a3 and a4 have an inversely proportional effect on the steepness. In order to obtain the most realistic SPF predictions from low to very high SPF values, the value of parameter a3 should preferably be a value between 0.90 and 1.50, and a4 should preferably be lower than 8, more preferably lower than 6, and even more preferably lower than 4, and the value of parameter a6 should preferably be a value between 0.1 and 0.9.

[0202] The parameter a2 determines the amplitude of the curve of the shape parameter and therefore determines the range of the calculated SPF (computer simulated SPF) values. When a2 is too low, all calculated SPFs may be too small regardless of TFC, and vice versa. In order to obtain the most realistic and accurate SPF prediction values ​​from low to very high SPF values, the value of parameter a2 should preferably be in the range of 0.30 to 0.68.

[0203] For example, the adjustable parameters a1 to a5 of the saturation-like function of the shape parameter c (Equation (7)) are predetermined for the reference formulation types "Oil-in-water lotion" and "Oil-in-water cream" using known in vivo SPF values ​​(SPF 50, SPF 30, SPF 15) of different expected SPFs. For the oil-in-water lotion, the parameters of the saturation-like function determined are a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.62, a3 = 1.09, and a4 = 1.95 and a5 = 0.5, resulting in a value of c = 1.0376, and for the oil-in-water cream emulsion, the parameters are a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.64, a3 = 1.09, and a4 = 1.95 and a5 = 0.5, resulting in a shape parameter c of 1.0542.

[0204] The resulting shape parameter c (ie, c-value) was then used to predict the computer simulated SPF for any UV filter combination for each different formulation type (or formulation vehicle).

[0205] Table 1 compares computer-simulated SPFs using values ​​of a1 to a4 outside the preferred range (shown as COMP 1 in Table 1) with computer-simulated SPFs using values ​​of a1 to a4 within the preferred range (shown as cream INV1 in Table 1) for different compositions of cream formulations. In particular, in the COMP 1 simulation, a1 = 0.33 (outside the range of 0.35 to 0.60), a2 = 0.69 (outside the range of 0.30 to 0.68), a3 = 0.89 (outside the range of 0.90 to 1.50), a4 = 1.95, and a5 = 0.50. In contrast to the COMP 1 simulation, in the cream INV1 simulation of different compositions of cream formulations, a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.64, a3 = 1.09, a4 = 1.95, a5 = 0.50. These parameters all fall within the preferred ranges described above. As can be seen in Table 1, the computer-simulated SPF obtained using the parameters of INV1 is closer to the in vivo reference SPF than the computer-simulated SPF obtained using the parameters of COMP 1, and is within + / -15% of the in vivo SPF for different compositions of the cream formulations. The predicted values ​​of SPF are more accurate for the cream containing INV1.

[0206]

[0207]

[0208] Table 1

[0209] BMDBM: butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane; OCR: octocrylene; EHS: ethylhexyl salicylate; BEMT: bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine, MBBT: methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol; EHMC: ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate; DHHB: diethylaminohydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate, EHT; ethylhexyl triazone; BEMT Aq corresponds to the effective amount of BEMT in the market product Tinosorb S Lite Aqua (2% of BEMT Aq corresponds to 10% of Tinosorb S Lite Aqua), TBPT: tris-biphenyl triazine; PBSA: phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid; DBT: diethylhexyl butyramido triazone; TiO2: titanium dioxide.

[0210] * refers to the effective amount of the marketed product MT-100Z. Since each titanium dioxide grade (marketed product) may have a slightly different absorption spectrum, e.g. due to different coatings, the absorption spectrum of each titanium dioxide grade may be considered in the calculation model to obtain better accuracy of the derived performance

[0211] (1) Annex c of ISO 24444

[0212] (2) ISO 24444 testing was performed at an external institute, sun protection testing

[0213] (3) Reference sunscreen formulations in Annex C of ISO 24444

[0214] For different compositions of lotion formulations (oil-in-water fluid emulsions), Table 2 compares the computer-simulated SPF using values ​​of a1 to a4 outside the preferred range as a control group (shown as COMP 1 in Table 2) with the computer-simulated SPF using values ​​of a1 to a4 within the preferred range (shown as Lotion INV2 in Table 2). In Table 2, the COMP 1 simulation uses the same values ​​of a1 to a4 as in Table 1. In the Lotion INV2 simulation, since the adjustable parameters a1, a3, and a4 have the same values ​​for each formulation type, and only the adjustable parameter a2 varies with the formulation type, in the Lotion INV 2 simulation (in Table 2), the parameters a1, a3, and a4 are the same as the Cream INV1 simulation shown in Table 1, while the adjustable parameter a2 is different, for example, for the Cream INV1 simulation shown in Table 1, a2=0.64, while for the Lotion INV 2 simulation shown in Table 2, a2=0.62. As can be seen from Table 2, the computer-simulated SPF obtained using the parameters simulated by lotion INV2 is also closer to the in vivo SPF than the computer-simulated SPF obtained using the parameters of COMP 1, and is within + / -15% of the in vivo SPF for different compositions of lotion formulations. The predicted values ​​of SPF are more accurate for lotions containing INV2.

[0215]

[0216] Table 2

[0217] ZnO, zinc oxide

[0218] * refers to the effective amount of the market product Z-Cote HP1. Since each zinc oxide grade (different market products) may have a slightly different absorption spectrum, e.g. due to different coatings, the absorption spectrum of each zinc oxide grade may be considered in the calculation model to obtain better accuracy of the derived performance.

[0219] (1) Annex c of ISO 24444

[0220] (2) ISO 24444 testing was conducted at an external institute, sun protection testing

[0221] (3) Reference sunscreen formulations in Annex C of ISO 24444

[0222] Using the values ​​of the adjustable parameters within the preferred ranges described above and the values ​​of the adjustable parameters of the control group (COMP 1 in Tables 1 and 2), the correlation between the computer simulated SPF and the in vivo SPF for a range of different formulation types was tested, as shown in the equation in Table 3.

[0223] In Table 3, the slope of the equation for the relationship between the test computer simulated SPF and the in vivo SPF is close to 1 using the adjustable parameters within the preferred ranges described above, compared to the values ​​of the adjustable parameters of the comparative test (COMP 1), thereby showing better correlation and performance prediction within the preferred ranges described above. In Table 3, y corresponds to the computer simulated SPF, and x corresponds to the in vivo SPF.

[0224]

[0225] Therefore, the shape parameter c in equation (3) (which describes the thickness distribution layer of the applied sunscreen) can be adapted according to the user-defined formulation type (or formulation vehicle) so that the determined computer-simulated SPF takes into account not only the characteristics of the UV filters and their interactions, but also the formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water fluid, oil-in-water cream, etc.) that the UV filter combination is intended for use in the sunscreen product. For different formulation types (or formulation vehicles), the adjustable parameters (a1 to a6) in the function of the shape parameter c as given in equations (6), (7) or (8) can be determined based on in vitro and / or clinical in vivo experimental data. For example, in vivo SPF values ​​of different reference formulation types including the same UV filter combination can be measured, and these in vivo experimental data can be used to determine the shape parameter c so that the computer-simulated SPF is equal to or as close as possible to the in vivo SPF. Experiments can be performed on a range of different SPF values, for example, covering low (e.g., SPF≤10) to very high SPF (e.g., SPF=50+) and improving the accuracy of the prediction. In other words, several UV filter combinations for different SPF values ​​have been tested in different formulation types to obtain a shape parameter c for each formulation type.

[0226] Return to Figure 3 ,exist Figure 3 At block 240 in step d), the performance index (e.g., SPF) of the UV filter composition is determined for the desired formulation type using the adapted shape parameter c of the gamma distribution. The value of the SPF can be determined using equation (1). The shape parameter c in equation (3) can be adapted in response to changes in the formulation type selected by the user.

[0227] For example, Figure 4A As shown by way of example in , the user may select "Oil-in-water fluid emulsion" as the desired formulation type. In response to the user-defined or user-selected formulation type, an SPF value of 12 is calculated using the shape parameter c defined for the oil-in-water fluid formulation type and presented under the facet "Performance Index". Figure 4BIn the example depicted in , the user may select "lipophilic single-phase fluid" as the desired formulation type. In response to the user-defined or user-selected formulation type, an SPF value of 8 is determined using the shape parameter c defined for the "lipophilic single-phase fluid" formulation type and is presented under the facet "performance index". Due to the consideration of the effect of the formulation type, Figure 4A and Figure 4B Different formulation types shown in have different computer simulated SPF values, even though the same UV filter composition is used. In some examples, the user may have the opportunity to select two or more formulation types. Figure 4C As shown by way of example in FIG, the user can select multiple formulation types, such as "Oil-in-water fluid" and "Lipophilic single-phase fluid". The SPF values ​​for these formulation types are then calculated and presented under the facet "Performance Index".

[0228] Return to Figure 3 At block 250, i.e., at step e), a determined performance index of a sunscreen product having a desired formulation type is provided, which performance index is preferably useful for manufacturing the sunscreen product. For example, the determined performance index may be returned from the decision support system 120 to the electronic communication device 110 via the network 130. For example, the determined performance index may be stored in the decision support system 120.

[0229] Figure 7 A flow chart describing a method 300 for providing a method of manufacturing a sun protection product is presented.

[0230] At block 310, a composition having a formulation type including one or more UV filter substances is provided. For example, a user may, for example, FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C , to select one or more UV filter substances, one or more cosmetic ingredients, and a formulation type. Examples of UV filter substances can be found in Annex VI to Regulation (EC) No. 1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council. Examples of formulation types can include, but are not limited to, oil-in-water fluid emulsions, oil-in-water cream emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, oil-in-water-in-oil emulsions, water-in-oil-in-water emulsions, water-in-silicone emulsions, silicone-in-water emulsions, polymer gel creams, lipophilic single-phase oils, lipophilic single-phase gels, lipophilic single-phase sticks, lipophilic-alcohol mixtures, hydrophilic single-phase fluids, hydrophilic single-phase gels, and powders.

[0231] At block 320, a calculated performance index for a desired sunscreen product is determined using the provided composition according to methods as described herein. Figure 3 An exemplary method is described. A user may, for example, FIG. 4A to FIG. 4Cto change, for example, the type and / or amount of UV filter substances, the type and / or amount of cosmetic ingredients, the type of formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water cream, oil-in-water fluid, etc.) until the calculated performance index meets a predefined criterion. In some examples, the predefined criterion may be that the difference between the measured performance index and the calculated performance index of the desired sunscreen product is less than a predetermined threshold. In some examples, the predefined criterion may be that the measured performance index is closest to the calculated performance index of the desired sunscreen product.

[0232] At block 330, a sunscreen product is manufactured using a composition including one or more UV filter substances having a formulation type.

[0233] At block 340, measured performance indices of the manufactured sun protection product are provided. The measured performance indices may include one or more properties, such as SPF and UVA-PF.

[0234] At block 350, the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product is compared to the calculated performance index of the desired sunscreen product to determine whether the manufactured sunscreen product meets predetermined quality standards.

[0235] The comparison can be performed by comparing one or more physical, chemical, or physico-chemical characteristics associated with the performance index. For example, the measured SPF of a manufactured sunscreen product can be compared to the calculated SPF of a desired sunscreen product. For example, the measured UVA-PF of a manufactured sunscreen product can be compared to the calculated UVA-PF of a desired sunscreen product.

[0236] The calculated performance index of the desired sunscreen product and the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product or any corresponding value derived therefrom can be used for verification. Such verification can be performed by comparing values ​​or value ranges.

[0237] If these values ​​are within an acceptable range or values, such as a 1- or 2-standard deviation interval, the measured manufacturing composition may be valid in the sense that it meets the performance criterium or criteria. If these values ​​are not within an acceptable range, such as a 1- or 2-standard deviation interval, the measured manufacturing composition may be invalid in the sense that it does not meet the performance criterium or criteria.

[0238] If the manufactured composition is valid, for example, a control signal for the production process can be triggered at block 360. Such a control signal can be associated with the composition of the production product. It can control dosing equipment used to dosing different substances of the production product in the production process.

[0239] If the manufactured product is invalid, for example, a warning signal to the production process operator can be triggered at box 370. Such a warning signal can indicate that the manufactured product is invalid. Invalidity can trigger a stop signal for the production process. In this case, an optimization signal can be generated for the production of the manufactured product to achieve the calculated performance index of the manufactured product. The optimization signal can be used to update the composition provided at box 310. For example, the optimization signal can change one or more of the following: the type and / or quantity of (multiple) UV filter substances, the type and / or quantity of (multiple) cosmetic ingredients, the type of formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water cream, oil-in-water fluid, etc.) and its percentage to achieve the desired performance index of the product to be manufactured. In some examples, the method 300 can be iterated multiple times during the test run, and one or more parameters of the composition can be adjusted for each iteration to approximate the desired performance index. Through sequential iterations, one or more parameters of the composition (such as the type and / or quantity of (multiple) UV filter substances, the type and / or quantity of (multiple) cosmetic ingredients, the type of formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water cream, oil-in-water fluid, etc.) and its percentage) can be improved so that the manufactured product meets the predetermined quality standard. If it is determined that the manufactured product is valid, processing may proceed to block 360 and the production process may begin.

[0240] By taking formulation type into account when determining sunscreen performance, the difference between calculated sunscreen performance and in vivo measured sunscreen performance can be reduced, thereby reducing the number of iterations performed to iteratively improve one or more parameters of the composition relative to a desired performance index. Thus, this can reduce the large number of test runs required to manufacture a desired sunscreen product.

[0241] Figure 8 An example of a flow chart describing a method 400 for verifying the manufacture of a sun protection product is shown.

[0242] At frame 410, a composition having a formulation type including one or more UV filter substances is provided. The difference between the composition provided and the composition of the sunscreen product currently produced is at least one different substance and / or having different formulation types. It may be desirable to exchange a certain substance for different reasons, such as the existence of competitive intellectual property rights, regulatory issues in different countries, or lack of resources. The composition provided and the sunscreen product currently produced may include different formulation types. For example, the sunscreen product currently produced may be an oil-in-water cream, while the composition provided may be used together with an oil-in-water fluid.

[0243] At block 420, a calculated performance index for the provided composition is determined according to methods as described herein. Figure 3 Exemplary embodiments of the method are described.

[0244] At block 430, a sunscreen product is manufactured using the provided composition including one or more UV filter substances having a formulation type. In other words, the UV filter composition is intended to be formulated into a formulation type (e.g., a water-in-oil emulsion). The manufactured product differs from currently produced sunscreen products in at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type.

[0245] At block 440, the measured performance index of the manufactured product is compared to the existing performance index of the existing sunscreen product to verify at least one substance and / or different formulation type. If the comparison is within an acceptable range, then at least one different substance and / or different formulation type of the manufactured product is valid. On the other hand, if the comparison is not within an acceptable range, then at least one different substance and / or different formulation type is invalid.

[0246] If at least one different substance and / or different formulation type is available, a control signal generated for a production process based on the at least one substance may be triggered, for example, at block 450. Such a control signal may be associated with a composition of a sunscreen product including at least one different substance and / or different formulation type. It may control a dosing device configured to dosing different substances of a sunscreen product in a production process.

[0247] If at least one different substance and / or different formulation type is invalid, a warning signal to an operator of the production process may be triggered, for example, at block 460. Such a warning signal may indicate the invalidity of at least one different substance and / or different formulation type. This may trigger a stop signal for the production process.

[0248] Fig. 9 An example of a production line 500 with a monitoring device 520 for manufacturing sun protection products is shown.

[0249] The production line 500 may include a dosing device 510 configured to dosing different substances of the sunscreen product during the production process. The production line 500 may include a conveyor system 530 to convey, for example, bottles, plastic packaging or other suitable packaging to be filled with the sunscreen product. The production line 500 may include a monitoring device 520 configured to monitor the quality of the sunscreen product during the production process.

[0250] Monitoring device 520 and / or dosing equipment device 510 can be configured to receive the performance index of the sunscreen product and the composition data of the sunscreen product with the formulation type including one or more UV filter substances. The target performance index can include quality standards such as SPF and / or UVA-PF. Monitoring device 520 can be configured to provide the composition data to the dosing equipment. Dosing equipment 510 can be configured to control dosing based on the provided composition data.

[0251] The monitoring device 520 can be configured to receive the measured performance index of the produced product. If the comparison is within an acceptable range or value, the produced composition meets the quality standard. If the comparison is not within an acceptable range or value, the produced composition does not meet the quality standard. In the latter case, the monitoring unit can be configured to inform the operator or provide the adjusted composition data to the dosing equipment 510.

[0252] Fig.10 Another example of a production line 600 with a verification device 610 for manufacturing sun protection products is shown.

[0253] The production line 600 may include a dosing device 620 configured to dosing different substances of the sunscreen product during the production process. The production line 600 may include a conveyor system 630 to convey, for example, bottles, plastic packaging or other suitable packaging to be filled with the sunscreen product. The production line 600 may include a verification device 610 configured to verify the production of the sunscreen product.

[0254] Verification device 610 can be configured to receive existing performance indexes (e.g., SPF, UVA-PF, etc.) of sunscreen products. Verification device 610 can be configured to generate optimization signals based on existing performance indexes. The optimization signal can include information about at least one new substance and / or new formulation type. Verification device 610 can be configured to verify at least one different substance and / or different formulation type used to produce sunscreen products. Verification device 610 can be configured to compare the performance index of sunscreen products produced using the new optimization signal with the existing performance index. Verification device 610 can be configured to provide composition data including at least one different substance to dosing equipment.

[0255] Figure 7 and Figure 8 Combinations and modifications of the embodiments shown in are also possible. Both methods illustrate the strength of the method as described herein. This allows simplified and more reliable production by monitoring the production of sunscreen products or by verifying (multiple) new substances and / or new formulation types to be used in the manufacture of sunscreen products.

[0256] In another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a computer program or a computer program element is provided, which is characterized by being adapted to execute the method steps of the method according to one of the preceding embodiments on a suitable system.

[0257] Therefore, the computer program elements can be stored on a computer unit, which can also be part of an embodiment of the present invention. The computing unit can be adapted to perform or cause the steps of the above method to be performed. In addition, the computing unit can be adapted to operate the components of the above device. The computing unit can be adapted to automatically operate and / or execute the user's commands. The computer program can be loaded into the working memory of a data processor. Therefore, the data processor can be equipped to perform the method of the present invention.

[0258] This exemplary embodiment of the invention covers both a computer program which right from the beginning uses the invention and a computer program which by means of an update turns an existing program into a program which uses the invention.

[0259] Furthermore, the computer program element may be capable of providing all necessary steps to complete the procedure of the exemplary embodiment of the method described above.

[0260] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a computer readable medium, such as a CD-ROM, is presented, wherein the computer readable medium has stored thereon a computer program element, which has been described in the preceding section.

[0261] The computer program may be stored and / or distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or solid-state medium provided with or as part of other hardware, but may also be distributed in other forms, such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless telecommunications systems.

[0262] However, the computer program may also be presented via a network such as the World Wide Web and may be downloaded from such a network into a working memory of a data processor. According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a medium for making a computer program element available for download is provided, the computer program element being arranged for performing a method according to one of the aforementioned embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method (200) for determining the performance of a sunscreen product of a certain formulation type comprising at least one UV filter, the method comprising the following steps: a) providing (210) a computational model to calculate a performance index of a sunscreen product, wherein the computational model uses a continuous film thickness distribution defined by a gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen product; b) providing (220) a desired formulation type for the sunscreen product; c) adapting (230) the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution to the desired formulation type; d) determining (240) a performance index of the UV filter composition of the desired formulation type using the adapted shape parameters of the gamma distribution; and e) providing (250) a determined performance index of a sunscreen product having the desired formulation type, the performance index preferably being useful for manufacturing the sunscreen product, wherein the shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration TFC, wherein the function is a quasi-saturation function having a larger slope at lower TFC and a smaller slope at higher TFC, and wherein the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type with respect to the performance index of the sunscreen product.

2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, in, This class of saturation functions includes: Where c is the shape parameter and a1, a2, a3 and a4 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type.

3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2, in, These adjustable parameters a1, a2, a3, and a4 have the following ranges: -0.35≤a1≤0.6； -0.3≤a2≤0.68； -0.9≤a3≤1.5; and -a4≤8。 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, in, This class of saturation functions includes: Where c is the shape parameter, a1, a2, a3, a4 and a5 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type, and REAE is the relative erythema active extinction in the oil phase.

5. The computer-implemented method of claim 4, in, These parameters a1, a2, a3, a4 and a5 have the following ranges: -0.35≤a1≤0.6； -0.3≤a2≤0.68； -0.9≤a3≤1.5； -a4≤8; and -0≤a5≤1。 6. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, in, This class of saturation functions includes: <h2 style=";text-align:left;direction:ltr">c = a1 + a2·(1-e<h2 style=";text-align:left;direction:ltr"> (-TFC·a6) <h2 style=";text-align:left;direction:ltr"> ) Wherein c is the shape parameter, a1, a2 and a6 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type, and these parameters a1 and a2 are in the same range as described in claim 5, and 0.1≤a6≤0.

9.

7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, in, This class of saturation functions includes: Wherein, c is the shape parameter, a1, a2 and a6 are adjustable parameters in the same range as described in claim 6, and 0≤a5≤1.

8. A computer-implemented method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The performance index includes the sun protection factor, SPF, and / or the UVA protection factor UVA-PF.

9. A computer-implemented method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, This type of preparation includes one or more of the following: - oil-in-water fluid emulsions; - Oil-in-water cream lotion; - Water-in-oil emulsions; - Oil-in-water-in-oil emulsions; - water-in-oil-in-water emulsions; - Water-in-silicone emulsions; - Silicone-in-water emulsions; -Polymer gel cream; - lipophilic monophasic oil; - lipophilic single-phase gel; - lipophilic single-phase rods; - lipophilic-alcohol mixtures; -Hydrophilic single-phase fluid; - a hydrophilic single-phase gel; and -powder.

10. A computer-implemented method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, These adjustable parameters, which determine the function of the adapted shape parameter c, are derived from experimental data of SPF and / or UVA-PF.

11. A computer-implemented method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The sunscreen product further comprises one or more cosmetic ingredients.

12. A method (300) for manufacturing a sunscreen product, the method comprising the following steps: - providing (310) a composition of a certain formulation type comprising one or more UV filter substances; - determining (320) a calculated performance index of a desired sunscreen product according to the method of any of the preceding claims; as well as - Using the composition comprising one or more UV filter substances within this formulation type to manufacture (330) a sun protection product.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: - providing (340) a measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product; as well as - Comparing (350) the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product with the calculated performance index of the desired sunscreen product to determine whether the manufactured sunscreen product meets predetermined quality standards.

14. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: In response to determining that the manufactured sunscreen product meets the predetermined quality standard, generating (360) a control signal that can be used to control the production process; or In response to determining that the manufactured sunscreen product does not meet the predetermined quality standard, a warning signal is generated (370) that can be used to indicate that the manufactured product is invalid and / or an optimization signal is generated that can be used to change the provided composition so that the manufactured sunscreen product meets the predetermined quality standard.

15. A method (400) for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product, the method comprising the steps of: - providing (410) a composition of a certain formulation type comprising one or more UV filter substances, wherein the provided composition differs from the composition of currently produced sunscreen products by at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type; - determining (420) a calculated performance index of a provided composition according to the method of any one of claims 1 to 11; - manufacturing (430) a sunscreen product using the composition comprising one or more UV filter substances within the formulation type, wherein the manufactured product differs from the currently produced sunscreen product by the at least one different substance and / or the different formulation type; and - comparing (440) the measured performance index of the manufactured product with the existing performance index of the existing sunscreen product to verify the at least one substance and / or the different formulation type.

16. A device (10) for determining a composition of a certain formulation type comprising one or more UV filter substances, the device comprising one or more processing units configured to determine a composition of filter substances for forming a sunscreen composition, wherein: The one or more processing units comprise instructions which, when executed on the one or more processing units, perform the method steps according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

17. An apparatus for manufacturing a sunscreen product, the apparatus comprising: - monitoring device (520); as well as - dosing equipment (510); Wherein, the monitoring device is configured to control the dosing equipment to manufacture the sunscreen product according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

18. An apparatus (610) for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product, the apparatus comprising one or more processing units configured to verify the production of a sunscreen product, wherein: The processing unit(s) comprise instructions which, when executed on the one or more processing units, perform the method according to claim 15 .

19. A computer program element comprising instructions which, when executed by a processing unit, cause the processing unit to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

20. A computer readable medium having stored thereon a computer program element according to claim 19.

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