DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MITIGATING RISK DUE TO EXPOSURE TO PARTICULATE MATTER

Abstract

DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MITIGATING RISK FROM EXPOSURE TO PARTICULATE MATTER Devices, systems, and methods for determining and measuring exposure to environmental particulate matter are provided. A pollution sensing article implements a polymer that becomes dark or discolored due to the adhesion of airborne particulate matter to the polymer, and a discoloration reference. A computing device includes processor hardware and circuitry configured to capture an image of the pollution sensing article, calculate a degree of discoloration of the polymer, and calculate the level of exposure of the pollution sensing article to environmental particulate matter based on the degree of discoloration of the polymer.The pollution detection article may be used as a stand-alone article to monitor exposure or may be incorporated into other articles, products, devices, or environments for low-maintenance monitoring facilitated by a device for calculating exposure to environmental particulate matter. Figure for abstract: none.

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MITIGATING RISK DUE TO EXPOSURE TO PARTICULATE MATTER ABSTRACT

[0001] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a computing device configured for determining exposure to airborne particulate matter, the computing device comprising: circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution detection article, wherein the image includes imaging of a discoloration reference of the pollution detection article and imaging of a polymer of the pollution detection article, wherein the polymer is configured to adsorb airborne particles thereon to cause the polymer to transform into a discolored polymer; and circuitry configured to compare the discoloration reference to the discolored polymer for an optical comparison, wherein the optical comparison enables determination of whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter.

[0002] In embodiments, the discoloration reference optically matches the discolored polymer, such that imaging of the discoloration reference at least partially matches imaging of the discolored polymer for determining whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter.

[0003] In embodiments, the computing device further includes circuitry configured to determine whether the pollution detection article has exposure to airborne particulate matter based on the optical comparison.

[0004] In embodiments, the pollution detection article comprises a plurality of discoloration references along a gradient and each discoloration reference corresponds to a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer.

[0005] In embodiments, the computing device further comprises circuitry configured to determine a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article based on the optical comparison.

[0006] In embodiments, the computing device further comprises circuitry configured to display, via a user interface, an action and / or product recommendation based on a level of exposure to material airborne particulate matter from the pollution detection article as determined on the basis of optical comparison.

[0007] In embodiments, the circuitry of the computing device is configured for image recognition detection of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer based on an arrangement of the pollution detection article.

[0008] In embodiments, the arrangement includes a position of the discoloration reference relative to a position of the discolored polymer, or is predefined based on a disposition of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer on the pollution detection article.

[0009] In embodiments, the discoloration reference includes an aperture therein, such that a portion of a surface positioned below the aperture appears adjacent to the discoloration reference for optical comparison between the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer.

[0010] In one aspect, the disclosure provides a computing device configured for measuring exposure to airborne particulate matter, the computing device comprising: circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution sensing article, wherein the image includes imaging a plurality of discoloration references along a gradient and imaging a polymer of the pollution sensing article, wherein the polymer is configured to adsorb airborne particles thereon to cause the polymer to transform into a discolored polymer; and circuitry configured to compare the plurality of discoloration references to the discolored polymer for an optical comparison, wherein the optical comparison is used to measure exposure of the pollution sensing article to airborne particulate matter.

[0011] In embodiments, each discoloration reference corresponds to a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter that is based at least in part on a concentration of airborne particulate matter in an environment.

[0012] In embodiments, the optical comparison comprises: calculating, based on imaging of the image, a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer; and calculating a degree of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references that is related to the degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer to enable measurement of an exposure of the pollution detection article to airborne particulate matter.

[0013] In embodiments, the optical comparison comprises: calculating, based on imaging of the image, a plurality of degrees of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references and calculating a standard curve thereof. configured to calculate the degree of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references.

[0014] In embodiments, the computing device further comprises circuitry configured to display, via a user interface, an action and / or product recommendation based on a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article as determined based on the optical comparison.

[0015] In embodiments, the recommendation is further based on a historical level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article and / or a historical level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of an individual.

[0016] This summary is provided to present a selection of concepts in simplified form which are described more fully below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter or to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

[0017] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] shows an exploded perspective view of an example of a stamp of pollution detection, according to the disclosure.

[0018] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] shows a top view of the example detection stamp of pollution, not exposed to particulate pollution.

[0019] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] shows a top view of the example detection stamp of pollution, after exposure to a degree of particulate pollution such that a polymer of the stamp is discolored.

[0020] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] shows a top view of the example detection stamp of pollution, after exposure to particulate pollution, with a discoloration reference configured for optical comparison rotated for comparison with the discolored polymer.

[0021] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] shows a flowchart of steps of an example process mitigating risk due to exposure to particulate matter using an exemplary pollution detection patch and calculation device according to the disclosure.

[0022] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] shows a flowchart of steps of an example of a method of calculating an exposure level and generating a recommendation to mitigate risk due to exposure to particulate matter, as may be performed with a calculation device according to the disclosure.

[0023] [Fig.7A] [Fig.7A] shows a first example of a user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting a risk of a rash or acne event.

[0024] [Fig.7B] [Fig.7B] shows a second example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting a risk of a rash or acne event.

[0025] [Fig.7C] [Fig.7C] shows a third example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting trends or activities related to exposure events.

[0026] [Fig.7D] [Fig.7D] shows a fourth example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting historical trends in environment, lifestyle, and weather and exposure forecasts.

[0027] [Fig.7E] [Fig.7E] shows a fifth example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting a value of an exposure metric related to UV, pollution and relative humidity.

[0028] [Fig.7F] [Fig.7F] shows a sixth example of a user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting pollution and humidity levels over several days.

[0029] [Fig.7G] [Fig.7G] shows a seventh example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting the compatibility of a product with an individual's pollution and exposure levels as they relate to the individual's goals for reducing exposure to pollution and harmful UV light.

[0030] [Fig.7H] [Fig.7H] shows an eighth example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting an example product for reducing an individual's exposure to pollution and harmful UV light.

[0031] [Fig.71] [Fig.7I] shows a ninth example of a user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting an individual's resilience to exposure to pollution and harmful UV light, and recommending an example of action to the individual.

[0032] [Fig.7J] [Fig.7J] shows a tenth example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting an example action using an example product for the individual, for the purpose of reducing exposure to pollution and harmful UV light.

[0033] [Fig.7K] [Fig.7K] shows an eleventh example user interface of a computing device according to the disclosure, highlighting an example action using an example product, a UV protection level and a pollen level for the individual, for the purpose of reducing exposure to pollution and harmful UV light.

[0034] The foregoing aspects and numerous associated advantages of the present invention will be more readily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Detailed description

[0035] Particulate pollution or particulate matter (PM) is composed of particles of solids and / or liquids that are in the air. Examples include dust, dirt, soot, smoke, and liquid droplets. This type of pollution can come from primary sources that form particles on their own, such as wood stoves and forest fires, as well as secondary sources that emit gases that, in turn, form particles, such as power plants, coal fires, factories, vehicles, and the like. Often, these emissions contain PM in the form of fine particles (e.g., PM2.5) and / or coarse particles (e.g., PM10). Fine particles (e.g., PM2.5) can be considered particularly hazardous to health because they can penetrate the skin, lungs, blood, and / or other organs and cause health problems.In particular, exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with ischemic heart disease, stroke, COPD, diabetes mellitus, and lung cancer (Sang, S. et al. The global burden of disease attributable to ambient fine particulate matter in 204 countries and territories, 1990-2019: A systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2022 Jun 15;238:113588.).

[0036] There is a need for PM monitoring devices, systems, and methods that can be reliably implemented in a consumer or industrial environment for monitoring PM exposure over longer periods of time. The present disclosure addresses these and other long-unmet needs in the art. POLLUTION DETECTION STAMPS

[0037] In one aspect, the disclosure provides an article, e.g., a pollution detection patch, for determining exposure to airborne particulate matter. In embodiments, the article may be operable to monitor exposure to airborne particulate matter in combination with a computing device of the disclosure. The article may include a polymer, e.g., a hydrophobic polymer, that adsorbs airborne particles thereon, causing discoloration of the polymer due to adsorption of particulate matter onto the polymer. The article may further include a discoloration reference that contains one or more reference values ​​for optically comparing, with a computing device or system, a degree of discoloration of the polymer with the reference. This optical comparison allows the determination of whether or not the article is exposed to airborne particulate matter, and if so, to what degree, via a device or a calculation system.

[0038] In embodiments, the article is for binary determination, with a computing device or system of the disclosure, of whether the article is exposed to PM in an environment (i.e., TRUE or FALSE PM exposure). However, in embodiments, the article may be discolored according to a degree of discoloration, and a plurality of discoloration references, e.g., along a gradient, are configured for optical comparison with the discolored polymer with a computing device or system. In such embodiments, the optical comparison of the computing device or system correlates a particular discoloration reference of the gradient with the degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer for measurement of an exposure of the article to airborne particulate matter with a computing device or system.

[0039] By way of example, [Fig. 1] shows an exemplary pollution detection patch, according to the disclosure, in an exploded perspective view. In the embodiment shown, a pollution detection patch 1 includes a plurality of discoloration references 2 (i.e., is composed of individual discoloration references 5, 6, 7, 8) along a gradient, such that each discoloration reference corresponds to a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer. For example, reference 5 corresponds to no or negligible exposure to PM; reference 6 corresponds to light exposure; reference 7 corresponds to intermediate exposure; and reference 8 corresponds to heavy exposure. The shade of the reference increases in opacity or darkness as the corresponding exposure levels are higher.In the embodiment shown, the article 1 is circular, and the arrangement of the plurality of discoloration references 2 is a semicircle, and each discoloration reference (5, 6, 7, 8) is a sector of the semicircle. However, other article shapes and other arrangements of the plurality of discoloration references 2 may be implemented, according to embodiments. In embodiments, the plurality of discoloration references 2 may be laminated with a transparent polymer film or glass, for example.

[0040] In the embodiment shown, the plurality of discoloration references 2 are arranged on a semicircular piece of suitable material, such as fabric, paper, polymer, plastic, wood, metal or any combination thereof, or other suitable material; however, other shapes and / or materials may be implemented, in embodiments. In the embodiment shown, the plurality of discoloration references 2 are arranged so that the references are adjacent to each other in an arrangement where the gradient increases along the arrangement, however, the references (5, 6, 7, 8) may be arranged in any arrangement. In the embodiment shown, each reference (5, 6, 7, 8) contains an aperture (5a, 6a, 7a, 8a) therethrough, so that surfaces positioned below the aperture are visible when viewed from above the article, as explained elsewhere herein. In this manner, the references (5, 6, 7, 8) are more easily compared visually or optically with the polymer for the determination of an exposure level by a computing device or system.

[0041] In the embodiment shown, the patch 1 comprises a polymer layer 3, composed of an inert support 10 and a polymer 11; in embodiments, the inert support 10 is coated with a dispersion of a pollutant-attracting polymer, as described elsewhere herein. The inert support 10 may be non-reactive with MP, however, the polymer 11 is reactive with MP in the sense that it adsorbs MP onto it, resulting in discoloration of the polymer 11 and functionality of the patch in detecting and / or quantifying levels of exposure to airborne MP in the environment. In embodiments, the polymer 11 is deposited on one half of a circular disc-shaped inert support 10, such that half of the inert support 10 does not include the polymer thereon, and the other half of the inert support 11 does include the polymer thereon.However, in some embodiments, a larger portion of the inert support 10, e.g., the entire inert support 10, may receive the polymer 11 deposited thereon for complete coverage of the upper surface of the polymer layer 3 with the polymer 11.

[0042] In the embodiment shown, the article 1 further comprises an attachment portion 4 configured for attachment of the article 1 to a surface. The attachment portion 4 may comprise, for example, an adhesive tape, a magnetic layer for attachment of the stamp to metal surfaces such as cars or the like, a hook-and-loop fastener, or other structure on a bottom of the attachment portion 4. The attachment portion 4 may include an adhesive 12 on a top of the attachment portion 4 for securing the polymer layer 3 thereto.

[0043] In some embodiments, the attachment portion 4 may be configured to suspend the article 1 from a surface or other article, or from a body of an individual who is wearing the article 1. In cases where a person is wearing the article 1, the article 1 may function as a type of “dosimeter” to monitor the person’s exposure to PM. This wearable “exposome monitor” may monitor individual exposure and serve as an early warning system for potentially harmful exposure levels, allowing the individual to mitigate their exposure. to potentially harmful pollution (e.g., “exposome”) by adjusting one’s location, behavior, or routine, or by implementing other protective actions such as applying protective materials, substances, or personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect the individual from potential health problems due to exposure to PM. In exemplary embodiments, the patch may be used as an indicator of when and / or where respirators and / or eye or other protection should be worn, for example. In some embodiments, the patch itself may be used as an indicator of when and / or where a filter, such as a respirator or other PM filter, is worn or clogged and should be maintained, cleaned, or replaced; for example, the patch 1 may be attached to or integrated with a respirator, such as an N95 respirator, or the like.Additionally, in industrial environments, for example, the accumulation of airborne PM can be an indicator of actual or potential equipment failure; in such cases, Stamp 1 can be used to warn operators of impending equipment failure or a need for maintenance.

[0044] In the embodiment shown, a central hinge is comprised of an upper pin 9a, which extends through the polymer pinhole 9b and the attachment portion pinhole 9c to secure the plurality of discoloration references 2 to the polymer layer 3 and the attachment portion 4 to form an assembled state of the article 1 for use. The central hinge (91, 9b, 9c) allows rotation of the plurality of discoloration references 2 relative to the polymer layer 3, as described elsewhere herein, for easier visual comparison of the references (5, 6, 7, 8) with the polymer discoloration 11.

[0045] In embodiments, the plurality of discoloration references (5, 6, 7, 8) correspond to qualitative levels of exposure to PM as calculated and / or communicated by a calculation device or system. For example, it may be sufficient in at least some situations for the level of exposure to PM to be indicated by the calculation device or system as "mild", "intermediate" or "significant", as appropriate. However, in other situations, the plurality of discoloration references (i.e., 5, 6, 7, 8) correspond to defined quantitative levels of exposure to PM. An example of a defined level of exposure may include exposure to a particular concentration of airborne PM, optionally for a particular period of time.In embodiments, the plurality of discoloration references may be selected or calibrated based on performance of a particular polymer over a range of defined quantitative exposure levels to PM. In this manner, the coloring or tint of a . A given discolored polymer state can be matched to a particular reference for the determination of at least an approximate exposure level as indicated by that reference. For example, suppose that reference 6 corresponds to a PM exposure quantification of X. If the polymer in the article discolors such that it at least approximately resembles reference 6, then it can be said that a PM exposure quantification in one or more environments in which the article is placed is at least approximately X. In this way, the article can be configured for qualitative use and / or quantitative use, and can be used in any of a variety of scenarios, including personal use, industrial use, and others.

[0046] Referring now to [Fig. 2], there is shown a top view of the exemplary pollution detection patch 1 in an assembled state and not exposed to particulate pollution. The polymer is in an unbleached state 11a, and optically corresponds to reference 5, i.e., the negative control reference. In the embodiment shown, the unbleached state 11a of the polymer is bright white. As shown in [Fig. 3], after exposure to a degree of particulate pollution such that a polymer of the patch is bleached, the polymer is in a bleached state 11b. In the embodiment shown, the discolored state 11b optically corresponds to the reference 6, such that a visual appearance of the discoloration reference 6 at least partially matches a visual appearance of the discolored polymer 11b for determining whether the article is exposed to airborne particulate matter, and if so, to what degree.

[0047] Referring now to [Fig. 4], there is shown a top view of the exemplary pollution detection patch 1 after exposure to particulate pollution, with a discoloration reference 6 configured for optical comparison moved or rotated for comparison with the discolored polymer 11b by a computing device or system. In the embodiment shown, the plurality of discoloration references (5, 6, 7, 8) are rotated 90 degrees such that the discoloration reference 6 overlaps the polymer when the polymer is in the discolored state 11b. In this configuration, the discolored state 11b is visible through the aperture of the reference 6, for easier visual comparison of the reference 6 with the discolored state 11b.In the example shown, the bleached state 11b corresponds at least approximately to reference 6, for example, based on coloration and / or grayscale tone, brightness, chromaticity and / or saturation, for example. The bleached state 11b, and other bleached states of the polymer, may appear as decreases in brightness from the default coloration to bright white, for example. The determined exposure may be graduated, e.g. example, as a score of 1 to 10, wherein 1 corresponds to less exposure and 10 to more exposure to PM, according to embodiments.

[0048] In some embodiments, the pollution detection patch may be implemented as, or incorporated into, any form factor as desired. Exemplary form factors include a disposable patch, a reusable patch, a washable patch, a bracelet, a ring, a necklace, or another wearable form factor. In some embodiments, the patch may be attached to a vehicle, a home, or other structure, to equipment monitoring systems, manufacturing or machining systems, and the like.

[0049] In embodiments, the polymer used to make the patch is hydrophobic and can attract airborne pollution such as dust, carbon soot, PM2.5, and the like. In exemplary embodiments, a polymer produced by MYCELX® may be used as the polymer of a patch or article of the disclosure, however, any suitable polymer or other material may be used depending on its effectiveness. Exemplary MYCELX® polymer compositions for making a polymer of a patch or article of the disclosure may include, by way of non-limiting examples, one or more compositions or polymers disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,746,925, one or more compositions or polymers disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,437,793, and / or one or more compositions or polymers disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,698,139.

[0050] In some embodiments, a polymer composition of the disclosure may be produced by chemically reacting (e.g., crosslinking) linseed oil with isobutyl methacrylate, and diluting the product with a suitable solvent, such as 2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol monoisobutyrate. The composition formed by the thermal reaction of linseed oil with the isobutyl methacrylate polymer is a flexible resinous product that, when diluted with the solvent, results in a mixture that may be sprayed onto a surface, such as the inert support 10 of the stamp of the disclosure. In some embodiments, a polymer of the article of the disclosure may be produced from methacrylate polymers and any of a variety of natural animal and vegetable oils.The oil and polymer may be reacted in a thermal reaction which does not appear to be sensitive to the atmosphere under which the reaction is carried out, i.e., whether it is an inert, oxidizing, or reducing atmosphere. Compositions having an oil / polymer ratio ranging from about 3:1 to 1:1 may be used, resulting in polymers having physical properties ranging from soft to hard, and from elastomeric to brittle in nature depending on the oil / polymer ratio and the choice of polymer and / or oil used.

[0051] In embodiments, a polymer composition may be applied to the inert support 10 by reducing the viscosity of the polymer composition and depositing it onto the inert support 10, which may be porous, in embodiments. Since the viscosity of MYCELX® polymer compositions at room temperature is very high (e.g., about 700 to 800 pa*s), in embodiments, a deposition method of depositing a polymer composition onto an inert support 10 includes reducing the viscosity of a polymer composition by heating, or dissolving in a solution, and then depositing the reduced-viscosity polymer composition onto an inert support 10.

[0052] As a first example of depositing a polymer composition onto an inert support 10, a first step includes mixing the polymer composition into a caprylic / capric triglyceride at any concentration, from 0 to 100% to produce a polymer composition mixture; a second step includes immersing the stamp (e.g., the inert support 10, which may include cellulose, for example) into the polymer composition mixture for 30 minutes; and a third step includes removing the inert support 10 from the polymer composition mixture and drying the inert support 10, optionally at an elevated temperature, for a period of time (e.g., overnight).

[0053] As a second example of depositing a polymer composition onto an inert support 10, a first step includes mixing the polymer composition into isododecane at any concentration, from 0 to 100%, preferably from 20 to 100%, to produce a polymer composition mixture; a second step includes immersing the stamp (e.g., the inert support 10, which may include cellulose, for example) into the polymer composition mixture for 30 minutes; and a third step includes removing the inert support 10 from the polymer composition mixture and drying the inert support 10, optionally at an elevated temperature, for a period of time (e.g., overnight). KITS AND METHODS

[0054] In other aspects, the disclosure provides kits that include one or more patches of the disclosure. Exemplary embodiments of kits include a pollution detection patch, optionally in combination with instructional materials, for example. The kits may be provided and / or used as stand-alone units, or may be combined with other products or kits for combination offerings. An exemplary combination kit includes one or more pollution detection patches and one or more skin care products, for example, to alleviate adverse skin health issues that might result from exposure to pollution or PM, for example.

[0055] In other aspects, the disclosure provides methods of managing or mitigating risk due to exposure to PM, optionally in combination with one or more other pollutants or environmental stressors. As shown in [Fig. 5], an exemplary method 13 of mitigating risk due to exposure to particulate matter may utilize an exemplary pollution detection patch according to the disclosure. In the embodiment shown, the method 13 of mitigating risk comprises step 14: providing a pollution detection patch, wherein a patch is provided to a person, group of persons, or organization. In step 15, which may be optional, the pollution detection patch may be docked to a surface. In step 16, the pollution detection patch is exposed to particulate pollution, resulting in discoloration of the polymer of the patch, as described elsewhere herein.In step 17, a computing device or system is used, for example, by an individual operator, to scan the pollution detection patch, and the device or system calculates the PM exposure level of the patch based on an optical comparison mediated by the imaging device or system of one or more discoloration references with the imaging of the discolored polymer. In step 18, the individual receives the particulate pollution exposure level and / or recommendations for action(s) and / or product(s), from the computing device or system. In step 19, the individual makes a change to adjust their exposome—the range of potentially harmful environmental exposures to which a person or group of individuals is exposed (including PM exposure)—such that the person or group of individuals has a lower risk of adverse health outcomes due to their exposome.Examples of adjustments may include changing a travel or transportation route, staying indoors for a specified period of time, wearing a respirator, applying a cosmetic composition to the skin or another part of the body, taking medication, or taking another action. COMPUTING DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS

[0056] In various aspects, the disclosure provides a computing device configured for determining exposure to airborne particulate matter. The computing device includes circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution detection article (e.g., the pollution detection patch 1 of Figures 1-4). The image of the patch includes imaging of a discoloration reference and imaging of a polymer configured to adsorb airborne particles thereon to cause the polymer to transform into a discolored polymer, as described herein. The computing device further includes circuitry configured to compare the discoloration reference to the discolored polymer for an optical comparison, thereby enabling the determination, for example, by the computing device, of whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter. As such, in embodiments, the computing device further comprises circuitry configured to determine whether the pollution detection article has an exposure to airborne particulate matter based on the optical comparison (i.e., a binary determination; YES or NO). In embodiments, the computing device further comprises circuitry configured to determine an airborne particulate matter exposure level of the pollution detection article based on the optical comparison (i.e., a measurement determination; exposure level).

[0057] Non-limiting examples of user interfaces are shown in Figures 7A-7K.In embodiments, the computing device further includes circuitry configured to display, via a user interface of the computing device, health insights or findings, historical exposome trends, statistical information related to an exposome, environmental factors such as UV radiation, pollution, humidity, pollen levels, skin care routine(s) used or suggested for use, lifestyle programs or trends such as exercise patterns or diet or sleep patterns, weather information or forecasts, information about predicted future exposomes due to environmental and lifestyle factors, qualitative or quantitative information about exposure, perceived or calculated or actual aging rate, resilience trends or the like, or any combination thereof.In embodiments, the computing device further includes circuitry configured to display, via a user interface of the computing device, an action and / or product recommendation based on a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article as determined based on the optical comparison.

[0058] In embodiments, the circuitry of the computing device is configured for image recognition detection of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer based on an arrangement of the pollution detection article, which may be, for example, a (known or expected) position of the discoloration reference relative to a position of the discolored polymer, or may be predefined based on an arrangement of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer on the pollution detection article, for example. In at least some embodiments, the circuitry of the computing device is configured for detection by image recognition of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer independently of the arrangement of the pollution detection article.

[0059] In various aspects, the disclosure provides a computing device configured for measuring exposure to airborne particulate matter. The computing device includes circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution detection article. The image includes imaging a plurality of discoloration references along a gradient and imaging a polymer of the pollution detection article. The polymer is configured to adsorb airborne particles thereon to cause the polymer to transform into a discolored polymer, as described herein. The circuitry of the computing device is configured to compare the plurality of discoloration references to the discolored polymer for optical comparison, thereby enabling measurement of exposure of the pollution detection article to airborne particulate matter.In embodiments, each discoloration reference corresponds to a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter that is based at least in part on a concentration of airborne particulate matter in an environment.

[0060] [Fig. 6] shows an exemplary method of calculating an exposure level and generating a recommendation for mitigating risk due to exposure to particulate matter, as may be performed with a computing device according to the disclosure. The method 20 comprises, in step 21, capturing an image of a pollution detection patch showing a reference coloration and a polymer discoloration; in step 22, comparing the reference coloration to the polymer discoloration for an optical comparison; in step 23, calculating an exposure level to particulate pollution based on the optical comparison; and in step 24, displaying an action and / or product recommendation via a user interface of the computing device.

[0061] In embodiments, the optical comparison comprises calculating, based on imaging of the image, a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer, and calculating a degree of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references that is associated with the degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer. These calculations enable measurement of an exposure of the pollution detection article to airborne particulate matter, for example, by the computing device. In embodiments, the optical comparison comprises calculating, based on imaging of the image, a plurality of degrees of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references and calculating a standard curve thereof configured to calculate the degree of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references, for example, by the computing device.

[0062] In embodiments, the computing device includes circuitry configured to display, via a user interface, an action and / or product recommendation based on an airborne particulate matter exposure level of the pollution detection article as determined based on the optical comparison, as described herein. In embodiments, the recommendation is further based on a historical airborne particulate matter exposure level of the pollution detection article and / or a historical airborne particulate matter exposure level of an individual, for example.

[0063] In embodiments, circuitry of the computing device is configurable with a processor and processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory, machine-readable medium of the computing device, as a non-limiting example, but other approaches to configuring circuitry of the computing device may be implemented in embodiments. In embodiments, the computing device includes a processor for executing instructions stored on a non-transitory, computer-readable medium, to enable the processor to perform all or part of a method or process of the disclosure. Accordingly, in embodiments, a computing device includes a software application configured to perform all or part of one or more methods or processes of the disclosure, in any order or combination.In exemplary embodiments, the computing device is a smartphone or other consumer computing device.

[0064] In some embodiments, the computing device includes a camera or other optical sensor comprising corresponding hardware and logic and / or software to capture one or more images of a pollution detection patch, analyze the one or more images to produce an optical comparison, and calculate the exposure level of the pollution detection patch based on the optical comparison, as described herein. Additional circuitry configuration of the computing device may include networking circuitry, e.g., circuitry configured for a wireless connection, such as a Bluetooth® connection, a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) connection, and / or a Wi-Fi® connection, and / or a wired connection.The networking circuitry, in combination with the computing device circuitry, may be used to request, retrieve, and / or receive data from a remote server, e.g., historical and / or current data related to one or more individuals' exposome levels, weather conditions, pollen, pollution, UV radiation, and the like. The computing device may include circuitry for transmitting calculated PM exposure levels to the remote server, e.g., to put . update a set of data relating to one or more individuals' exposome data, weather conditions, pollen, pollution, UV rays, and the like. NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

[0065] Although general features of the disclosure are described and shown and particular features of the disclosure are set forth in the claims, the following non-limiting embodiments relate to features, and combinations of features, that are explicitly contemplated as part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting embodiments contain elements that are modular and may be combined with each other in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting embodiment, which may itself be combined with other non-limiting embodiments.

[0066] Embodiment 1. A computing device configured for determining exposure to airborne particulate matter, the computing device comprising: circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution detection article, wherein the image includes imaging of a discoloration reference of the pollution detection article and imaging of a polymer of the pollution detection article, wherein the polymer is configured to adsorb airborne particles thereon to cause the polymer to transform into a discolored polymer; and circuitry configured to compare the discoloration reference to the discolored polymer for an optical comparison, wherein the optical comparison enables determination of whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter.

[0067] Embodiment 2. A computing device of any other embodiment, wherein the discoloration reference optically matches the discolored polymer, such that imaging of the discoloration reference at least partially matches imaging of the discolored polymer for determining whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter.

[0068] Embodiment 3. The computing device of any other embodiment, further comprising circuitry configured to determine whether the pollution detection article has exposure to airborne particulate matter based on the optical comparison.

[0069] Embodiment 4. A computing device of any other embodiment, wherein the pollution detection article comprises a plurality of discoloration references along a gradient and each discoloration reference corresponds to a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer.

[0070] Embodiment 5. A computing device of any other embodiment, further comprising circuitry configured to determine a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article based on the optical comparison.

[0071] Embodiment 6. A computing device of any other embodiment, further comprising circuitry configured to display, via a user interface, an action and / or product recommendation based on a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article as determined based on the optical comparison.

[0072] Embodiment 7. A computing device of any other embodiment, wherein the circuitry of the computing device is configured for image recognition detection of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer based on an arrangement of the pollution detection article.

[0073] Embodiment 8. A computing device of any other embodiment, wherein the arrangement includes a position of the discoloration reference relative to a position of the discolored polymer, or is predefined based on an arrangement of the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer on the pollution detection article.

[0074] Embodiment 9. A computing device of any other embodiment, wherein the discoloration reference includes an opening thereon, such that a portion of a surface positioned below the opening appears adjacent to the discoloration reference for optical comparison between the discoloration reference and the discolored polymer.

[0075] Embodiment 10. A computing device configured for measuring exposure to airborne particulate matter, the computing device comprising: circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution detection article, wherein the image includes imaging a plurality of discoloration references along a gradient and imaging a polymer of the pollution detection article, wherein the polymer is configured to adsorb airborne particles thereon to cause the polymer to transform into a discolored polymer; and circuitry configured to compare the plurality of discoloration references to the discolored polymer for an optical comparison, wherein the optical comparison enables measurement of exposure of the pollution detection article to airborne particulate matter.

[0076] Embodiment 11. A computing device of any other embodiment, wherein each discoloration reference corresponds to an airborne particulate matter exposure level that is based at least in part on a concentration of airborne particulate matter in an environment.

[0077] Embodiment 12. A calculating device of any other embodiment, wherein the optical comparison comprises: calculating, based on imaging of the image, a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer; and calculating a degree of discoloration of the plurality of discoloration references that is related to the degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer to enable measurement of an exposure of the pollution detection article to airborne particulate matter.

[0078] Embodiment 13. A calculating device of any other embodiment, wherein the optical comparison comprises: calculating, based on imaging of the image, a plurality of discoloration degrees of the plurality of discoloration references and calculating a standard curve thereof configured for calculating the discoloration degree of the plurality of discoloration references.

[0079] Embodiment 14. A computing device of any other embodiment, further comprising circuitry configured to display, via a user interface, an action and / or product recommendation based on a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article as determined based on the optical comparison.

[0080] Embodiment 15. A calculating device of any other embodiment, wherein the recommendation is further based on a historical level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article and / or a historical level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of an individual.

[0081] Although illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

Claims

1. A computing device configured for determining exposure to airborne particulate matter, the computing device comprising: circuitry configured to capture an image of a pollution detection article, wherein the image includes imaging of a discoloration reference (5) of the pollution detection article and imaging of a polymer (11) of the pollution detection article, wherein the polymer (11) is configured to adsorb airborne particulate matter thereon to cause the polymer (11) to transform into a discolored polymer; and circuitry configured to compare the discoloration reference (5) to the discolored polymer for optical comparison, wherein the optical comparison enables determination of whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter.

2. The computing device of claim 1, wherein the discoloration reference (5) optically matches the discolored polymer, such that imaging of the discoloration reference (5) at least partially matches imaging of the discolored polymer for determining whether the pollution detection article is exposed to airborne particulate matter.

3. The computing device of claim 1, further comprising circuitry configured to determine whether the pollution sensing article has exposure to airborne particulate matter based on the optical comparison.

4. A computing device according to claim 1, wherein the pollution detection article comprises a plurality of discoloration references along a gradient and each discoloration reference (5) corresponds to a degree of discoloration of the discolored polymer.

5. The computing device of claim 1, further comprising circuitry configured to determine a level of exposure to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article based on the optical comparison.

6. A computing device according to claim 1, further comprising circuitry configured to display, via a user interface, an action and / or product recommendation based on an exposure level to airborne particulate matter of the pollution detection article as determined based on optical comparison.

7. A computing device according to claim 1, wherein the circuitry of the computing device is configured for image recognition detection of the discoloration reference (5) and the discolored polymer based on an arrangement of the pollution detection article.

8. A computing device according to claim 7, wherein the arrangement includes a position of the discoloration reference (5) relative to a position of the discolored polymer, or is predefined based on an arrangement of the discoloration reference (5) and the discolored polymer on the pollution detection article.

9. A computing device according to claim 7, wherein the discoloration reference (5) comprises an opening thereon, such that a portion of a surface positioned below the opening appears adjacent to the discoloration reference (5) for optical comparison between the discoloration reference (5) and the discolored polymer.

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