Prediction of the UV Performance of Sunscreens

Abstract

The present invention relates to the development of sunscreen filter compositions. A computer-implemented method (200) is provided for determining the performance of a sunscreen product containing at least one ultraviolet filter in order to accurately determine the sunscreen filter composition in a dosage form. The method includes: a) providing a calculation model for calculating a performance index of the sunscreen product (210), where the calculation model applies a continuous film thickness distribution defined by a gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen product (210); b) providing the target dosage form of the sunscreen product (220); c) adapting the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution to the target dosage form (230); d) using the adapted shape parameter of the gamma distribution to determine the performance index of the ultraviolet filter composition in the target dosage form (240); and e) preferably providing the determined performance index of the sunscreen product having the target dosage form that can be used in the manufacture of the sunscreen product (250). The shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration, TFC, and this function is a saturation-like function where the slope is greater when the TFC is low and the slope is smaller when the TFC is high. The amplitude of this function is related to the performance of the dosage form from the perspective of the performance index of the sunscreen product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a computer-implemented method and apparatus for determining the performance of a sunscreen product comprising at least one ultraviolet 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.

Background Art

[0002] Compositions of sunscreen filters are prepared from a palette of different ultraviolet filter substances known for their different ultraviolet absorption characteristics. When generating a composition of a sunscreen filter, a designer selects substances and combines them to achieve the desired sun protection performance.

[0003] Today, developers of sunscreens can utilize computational tools such as, for example, BASF's Sunscreen Simulator (https: / / sunscreensimulator.basf.com / Sunscreen_Simulator / login), by which the sun protection performance of combinations of ultraviolet filters can be predicted. Currently, the calculation of sun protection performance is based only on combinations of filters. For example, a calculation method for calculating ultraviolet shielding performance is available in B. Herzog and U. Osterwalder, Pure and Applied Chemistry. 87, 937 (2015). However, the medium in which the filter is used can affect the sun protection performance, and thus, different formulations having the same ultraviolet filter composition can exhibit different sun protection performances.

[0004] Accordingly, it can be difficult with current computational tools to accurately evaluate the sun protection performance of a specific formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water liquid, oil-in-water cream, etc.). For this reason, it is necessary to conduct a wide range of in vivo tests.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] There may be a need to accurately determine the sun protection performance of a sunscreen filter composition in a specific formulation type.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The object of the present invention is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims, and further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the aspects described below of the present invention also apply to a computer-implemented method and apparatus for determining the performance of a sunscreen product containing at least one ultraviolet 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 containing at least one ultraviolet filter, the method comprising: a) providing a calculation model (210) for calculating a performance index of the sunscreen product, the calculation model applying a continuous film thickness distribution defined by a gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen product (210); b) providing the target formulation type of the sunscreen product (220); c) adapting the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution to the target formulation type (230); d) using the adapted shape parameter of the gamma distribution to determine the performance index of the ultraviolet filter composition in the target formulation type (240); e) providing (250), preferably, the determined performance index of the sunscreen product having the target formulation type, which can be used for the manufacture of the sunscreen product. In this case, the shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration (TFC), and this function is a saturation like function where the slope is larger when the TFC is low and smaller when the TFC is high. The amplitude of this function is related to the performance of the formulation type from the perspective of the performance index of the sunscreen product.

[0008] Since the UV transmittance depends on the thickness and thickness distribution of the layer to which the sunscreen is applied, currently, the calculation of the sun protection performance is determined based on the characteristics of the UV filter (e.g., extinction, photo-stability alone, or photo-stability of their combination), and a model that describes the layer of the applied sunscreen. The gamma distribution model is an asymmetric distribution suitable for describing the profile of the film to which the sunscreen is applied, and it includes a shape parameter that can be adjusted so that the calculated sun protection performance of a series of tests of the sunscreen matches as closely as possible the reference sun protection performance, which can be, for example, the sun protection factor (SPF) in vivo (ISO24444).

[0009] The computer-implemented method and apparatus described herein adapt the shape parameter c of the model that describes the layer of the applied sunscreen for different formulation types (also called formulation media), taken as a reference, so that the determined sun protection performance takes into account, in addition to the characteristics of the UV filter, the formulation type or formulation medium (e.g., oil-in-water liquid, oil-in-water cream, etc.).

[0010] The shape parameter c is a saturation like function of the TFC. When at least one UV filter composition contains one UV filter, the TFC can be expressed as the concentration of the UV filter in percent (weight / volume). When at least one UV filter composition contains two or more UV filters and each UV filter has its respective concentration in percent, the TFC is the sum of the concentrations in percent of the two or more UV filters.

[0011] Examples of saturation-like functions are described below. An exemplary saturation-like function is shown in FIG. 5A. As described in detail below, particularly with respect to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type (or formulation medium) from the perspective of the performance index of the sunscreen product. By adjusting only this amplitude, the problem that the curves of the shape parameters intersect when plotted against the total filter concentration of different formulation types (or formulation media) can be overcome.

[0012] Since the formulation type can be selected, a desired solution can be adjusted according to the user's requirements. The desired solution can also reduce the difference between the calculated sun protection performance and the sun protection performance measured in vivo, thereby reducing extensive in vivo tests at the user level.

[0013] This will be described in detail below, particularly with respect to the example shown in FIG. 3.

[0014] In addition, the determined calculated performance index of the sunscreen product can be used to control or verify the manufacture of the sunscreen product, and thus large-scale trial runs in the manufacture of the target sunscreen product can be reduced. This will be described in detail below, particularly with respect to the examples shown in FIGS. 7 to 10. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the performance index includes a sun protection factor (SPF) and / or a UVA protection factor (UVA-PF).

[0015] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the saturation-like function includes the following: [Number] (where c is a shape parameter, and a1, a2, a3, and a4 are adjustable parameters, which are determined for each formulation type).

[0016] Certain formulation types were found to always exhibit a higher in vivo SPF than other formulation types while containing the same UV filter composition. To account for the different behaviors of different formulation types, the shape parameter c was determined for each formulation type. The shape parameter c may include a specific set of adjustable parameters a1, a2, a3, and a4 for each formulation type. These parameters determine the shape of the curve when the shape parameter is plotted against the TFC. The higher the shape parameter, the higher the calculated SPF. The calculated SPF can also be referred to as the simulated SPF or the estimated SPF.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable parameters a1, a2, a3, and a4 can have the following ranges: - 0.35 ≤ a1 ≤ 0.6, - 0.3 ≤ a2 ≤ 0.68, - 0.9 ≤ a3 ≤ 1.5, and - a4 ≤ 8.

[0018] As will be described in detail below, particularly with respect to Tables 1 to 3, by being able to adjust the parameters within the above preferred ranges, the accuracy of determining the performance index can be improved.

[0019] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the saturation-like function includes the following:

Equation

[0020] In this example, the saturation-like function further includes the parameter a5, which is only necessary when the filter composition contains a UV absorber in both the oil phase and the water phase. In this case, REAE means the relative erythemally active extinction of the oil phase, and is related to the increase in the performance index that can be obtained when filters are present simultaneously in the oil and water phases 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. For the filter system of the formulation, when only a UV filter is included in the water phase or only a UV filter is included in the oil phase, the parameter a5 can be ignored.

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the parameters a1, a2, a3, a4, and a5 can 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.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the saturation-like function includes the following: c = a1 + a2·(1 - e (-TFC·a6) ) (where c is a shape parameter, a1, a2, and a6 are adjustable parameters, which are determined for each formulation type, the parameters a1 and a2 are in the same range as above, and 0.1 ≦ a6 ≦ 0.9).

[0023] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the saturation-like function includes the following:

Equation

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the performance index includes a sun protection factor (SPF) and / or a UVA protection factor (UVA-PF).

[0025] In one example, the formulation type includes a water-containing formulation or a water-free formulation.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the formulation type (or formulation medium) includes one or more of the following: oil-in-water liquid emulsion, oil-in-water cream emulsion, water-in-oil emulsion, water-in-oil-in-water emulsion, oil-in-water-in-oil emulsion, silicone-in-water emulsion, water-in-silicone emulsion, polymer gel cream, lipophilic single-phase oil, lipophilic single-phase gel, lipophilic single-phase stick, lipophilic-alcoholic mixture, hydrophilic single-phase liquid, hydrophilic single-phase gel, and powder.

[0027] The formulation can be a spray, cream, lotion, mousse (foam), powder, etc., and can be appropriately filled into a bottle, jar, pump spray, or aerosol equipped with an appropriate applicator.

[0028] Hydrophilic refers to water and compounds that are soluble or miscible in water.

[0029] Figures 4A - 4C show exemplary implementations of a two-way user interface that can evaluate the interaction between the formulation type and the performance index. [[ID=2 (26]]

[0030] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the parameters of the function for determining the adapted shape parameter are obtained from experimental data of SPF and / or UVA-PF.

[0031] The experimental data of SPF and / or UVA-PF can be in vivo and / or in vitro.

[0032] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sunscreen product further contains one or more cosmetic ingredients.

[0033] Examples of cosmetic ingredients can include, but are not limited to, emulsifiers, emulsion polymers, skin softeners, hydrophilic humectants, waxes, thickening polymers, viscosity increasing agents, silicon-based compounds, pH adjusters, activators, preservatives, and fragrances.

[0034] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a sunscreen product is provided, the method comprising: - providing a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type; - determining the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product according to the method of the first aspect and any related examples; - manufacturing a sunscreen product using a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances within the formulation type.

[0035] This will be described in detail below, particularly with respect to the example shown in FIG. 7.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises: - providing the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product; - comparing the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product with the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product to determine whether the manufactured sunscreen product meets a predetermined quality standard.

[0037] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises: when it is determined that the manufactured sunscreen product meets a predetermined quality standard, generating a control signal that can be used to control the production process, or If it is determined that the manufactured sunscreen product does not meet the predetermined quality standards, it includes the step of generating a warning signal that can be used to indicate the invalidity of the manufactured product, and / or the step of generating an optimization signal that can be used to change the composition provided so that the manufactured sunscreen product meets the predetermined quality standards.

[0038] This will be described in detail below, particularly with regard to the example shown in FIG. 7.

[0039] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product is provided, and this method includes: - A step of providing a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type, wherein the provided composition is different from the composition of the existing manufactured sunscreen product in at least one different substance and / or different formulation type; - A step of determining the calculated performance of the provided composition according to the first aspect and any related examples; - A step of manufacturing a sunscreen product using a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances within a formulation type, wherein the manufactured composition is different from the composition of the existing manufactured sunscreen product in at least one different substance and / or different formulation type; - A step of comparing the measured performance index of the manufactured composition with the existing performance index of the existing sunscreen product to verify at least one substance and / or different formulation type.

[0040] This will be described in detail below, particularly with regard to the example shown in FIG. 8.

[0041] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for determining a performance index of a composition comprising one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type, the apparatus comprising one or more processing devices configured to determine the performance index of the composition of the filter substances forming the sunscreen composition, the one or more processing devices including instructions which, when executed on the one or more processing devices, perform the method steps of the first aspect and any related examples.

[0042] This will be explained in detail below, particularly with reference to the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0043] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for manufacturing a sunscreen product. The apparatus includes a monitoring device and a dosing device. The monitoring device is configured to control the dosing device to manufacture the sunscreen product.

[0044] This will be explained in detail below, particularly with reference to the example shown in FIG. 9.

[0045] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product, the apparatus including one or more processing devices configured to verify the production of the sunscreen product, where the processing devices include instructions which, when executed on the one or more processing devices, execute a method.

[0046] This will be explained in detail below, particularly with reference to the example shown in FIG. 10.

[0047] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer program element including instructions which, when executed by a processing device, cause the processing device to execute the steps of the method of the first aspect and any related examples.

[0048] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable medium having stored thereon a computer program element.

[0049] In one embodiment, the ultraviolet filter substance can include specific compounds that impede the passage of ultraviolet light. In other words, the ultraviolet filter substance can include soluble or insoluble organic or inorganic agents that protect the skin from the harmful effects of sunlight, such as erythema, by absorbing or blocking ultraviolet radiation. Soluble agents function by absorbing ultraviolet light, and insoluble or particulate agents function by absorbing ultraviolet light and further reflecting and / or scattering ultraviolet light. Depending on the jurisdiction, the permitted ultraviolet filter substances may vary. The ultraviolet filters permitted in cosmetics in the European Union are listed in Annex VI of Regulation (EC) No. 1223 / 2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council.

[0050] In one embodiment, exemplary emulsifiers used to form an oil-in-water emulsion can include one or more of the following: - Glucose derivatives such as cetearyl glucoside, arachidyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, coco glucoside, polyglyceryl-3 methyl glucose distearate, methyl glucose sesquistearate, - Sucrose derivatives such as sucrose polystearate, sucrose palmitate, - Sorbitol derivatives such as polysorbate derivatives, - Inulin derivatives such as inulin lauryl carbamate, - Glycerides of fatty acids such as glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE, glyceryl stearate citrate, - Glumatic acid derivatives such as sodium stearoyl glutamate, - Sulfosuccinic acid derivatives such as disodium cetearyl sulfosuccinate, - Phosphate derivatives such as potassium cetyl phosphate, cet-10 phosphate, C20-22 alkyl phosphate, - Fatty acid esters of polyglyceryl such as polyglyceryl-10 stearate, polyglyceryl-6 behenate, - Oxidized alkenylated fatty alcohols such as cetearyl alcohol-20, stearyl alcohol-21, and behenyl alcohol-25, - Oxidized alkenylated fatty acids such as PEG-100 stearate, - Oxidized alkenylated organically modified silicones / polysiloxanes / polyalkyl / polyether copolymers and derivatives such as PEG-12 dimethicone, - Phospholipids based on lecithin derivatives and the like.

[0051] In one embodiment, exemplary emulsifiers used to form a water-in-oil emulsion can include one or more of the following: - Glycerides of fatty acids such as glyceryl oleate and sorbitan laurate, - Sorbitan esters such as sorbitan oleate, - Fatty acid esters of polyglyceryl such as polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, polyglyceryl-2 dipolyhydroxystearate, and polyglyceryl-4 isostearate, - Oxidized alkenylated fatty alcohols such as stearyl alcohol-2, - Oxidized alkenylated fatty acids such as PEG-30 dipolyhydroxystearate, and - Organically modified silicones / polysiloxanes / polyalkyl / polyether copolymers and derivatives such as cetyl dimethicone copolyol, cetyl PEG / PPG-10 / 1 dimethicone, and PEG-10 dimethicone.

[0052] In one embodiment, exemplary lipophilic thickeners used to increase the viscosity of the emulsion can include one or more of the following: - Fatty alcohols such as cetyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and behenyl alcohol, - Fatty acids such as stearic acid and palmitic acid, - Fatty acid esters such as myristyl stearate, pentaerythrityl distearate, cetyl palmitate, tribehenin, and dextrin palmitate, - Waxes such as beeswax, carnauba wax, microcrystalline wax, ceresin, ozocerite, rice bran wax, sunflower wax, - Hydrogenated vegetable oils, hydrogenated castor oil, hydrogenated plant glycerides, - Hydrogenated castor oil / sebacic acid copolymer, - Poly C10-30 alkyl acrylate, - Polyamide derivatives such as polyamine DE-8, - Silica-based derivatives such as silica, silica dimethylsilylate.

[0053] In one embodiment, exemplary hydrophilic stabilizers / thickeners used to increase the viscosity of the emulsion can include one or more of the following: - Natural gums such as xanthan gum, tara gum, carrageenan, - Silicate derivatives such as magnesium aluminum silicate, - Cellulose derivatives such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, - Polyacrylic acid-based derivatives such as sodium polyacrylate, acrylate / C10-30 alkyl acrylate cross polymer, carbomer, acrylate / beheneth-25 methacrylate copolymer, hydroxyethyl acrylate / acryloyldimethyltaurate sodium copolymer, and - Starch derivatives such as hydroxypropyl starch phosphate.

[0054] In one embodiment, exemplary thickeners used to obtain an oil gel or to enhance the formation of a lipophilic or lipoalcoholic single-phase film can include one or more of the following: - Silica derivatives such as silica, dimethyl silica silylate, and - Poly C10-30 alkyl acrylate.

[0055] In one embodiment, the water-in-oil type liquid (or lotion formulation type) can include formulations having a viscosity measured at 25 °C at 10 revolutions per minute (10 rpm) using a Brookfield DVIII type device with a spindle RV5 of up to 20,000 mPa·s, preferably up to 15,000 mPa·s. If the formulation is too fluid to be measured with the RV5 spindle, it may be necessary to use the spindle LV3.

[0056] In one embodiment, the cream can include formulations that are visually (to the naked eye) firm and do not flow out of a bottle, for example, having a viscosity measured at 25 °C at 10 revolutions per minute (10 rpm) using a Brookfield DVIII type device with a spindle RV5 or RV6 that exceeds 20,000 mPa·s.

[0057] In one embodiment, the input device can include, but is not limited to, any item or element that forms a boundary configured to transfer information. In particular, the input device can be configured to transfer information to a computing device, such as a computer, for example, to receive information. The input device is preferably a separate device configured to receive or transfer information to a computing device and can be, for example, one or more of the following: an interface, particularly a web interface and / or a data interface, a keyboard, a terminal, a touch screen, or any other input device that one skilled in the art deems appropriate. More preferably, the input device includes, or is, a data interface configured to transfer or exchange information as specified hereinafter in this document.

[0058] In one embodiment, the output device can include, but is not limited to, any item or element configured to form a boundary for transferring information. In particular, the output device can be configured to transfer information from a computing device, such as a computer, to another device, such as a control device, for example, to control and / or monitor the production process of the generated composition, for example, by transmitting or outputting information. The output device is preferably a separate device configured to output or transfer information from the computing device and can be, for example, one or more of the following: an interface, specifically a web interface and / or a data interface, a screen, a printer, a touch screen, or any other output device considered appropriate by those skilled in the art. More preferably, the output device includes, or is, a data interface configured to transfer or exchange information as specified hereinafter in this specification.

[0059] Preferably, the input device and the output device are configured as at least one or at least two separate data interfaces, i.e., preferably providing a data transfer connection, such as a wireless transfer, an Internet transfer, Bluetooth®, NFC, inductive coupling, etc. As an example, the data transfer connection can be, or can include, at least one port including one or more of a network or Internet port, a USB port, and a disk drive. The input device and / or the output device can also be at least one web interface.

[0060] In one embodiment, the processing device can include, but is not limited to, any logic circuit configured to execute the operation of a computer or system, and / or generally, that device or apparatus configured to execute a calculation or logical operation. The processing device can include at least one processor. In particular, the processing device can be configured to process the basic instructions that drive a computer or system. As an example, the processing device can include at least one arithmetic logic unit (ALU), at least one floating-point unit (FPU) such as a math coprocessor or a numeric coprocessor, a plurality of registers, and a memory such as a cache memory. In particular, the processing device can be a multi-core processor. The processing device can include a central processing unit (CPU) and / or one or more graphics processing units (GPU) and / or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) and / or one or more tensor processing units (TPU) and / or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), etc. The processing device can be configured to preprocess the input data. The preprocessing can include at least one filtering process on the input data that meets at least one quality criterion. For example, the input data can be filtered to remove missing variables.

[0061] It should be understood that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts described in more detail below (as long as such concepts do not conflict with each other) are considered to be part of the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of the claimed subject matter described at the end of this disclosure are considered to be part of the subject matter of the invention disclosed herein.

[0062] These and other aspects of the invention will be made apparent and explained with reference to the embodiments described below.

[0063] In the drawings, like reference numerals generally refer to like parts throughout the different views. Also, the drawings are not necessarily to scale, but rather are generally focused on showing the principles of the present invention instead.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0064]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 4C

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0065] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary apparatus 10 for determining the performance of a sunscreen product including at least one ultraviolet filter. Apparatus 10 includes an input device 12, a processing device 14, and an output device 16.

[0066] In general, 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) executed by various hardware components, or any combination thereof, as desired for a given set of design parameters or performance constraints. Although FIG. 1 shows, by way of example, a limited number of components, it can be understood that more or fewer components may be employed for a given implementation.

[0067] In some implementations, apparatus 10 may be embodied as a device or apparatus such as a server, a workstation, or a mobile device, etc., or may be embodied in such a device or apparatus. Apparatus 10 may include one or more microprocessors or computer processors, which implement appropriate software. The processing apparatus 14 of apparatus 10 can be realized by one or more of these processors. The software may be downloaded and / or stored in a corresponding memory, such as volatile memory like RAM or non-volatile memory like flash. The software may include instructions for configuring one or more processors to perform the functions described herein.

[0068] Apparatus 10 may be implemented with or without employing a processor, and it should be noted that it can also be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware for performing some functions and a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) for performing other functions. For example, the functional devices of apparatus 10, such as input device 12, one or more processing devices 14, and output device 16, can be implemented in the form of programmable logic, such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), in a device or apparatus. Generally, each functional device of the apparatus can be implemented in the form of a circuit.

[0069] In some implementations, apparatus 10 may also be implemented in a distributed manner. For example, some or all of the devices of apparatus 10 may be arranged as individual modules in a distributed architecture and may be connected by an appropriate communication network such as a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP (registered trademark)) 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.

[0070] The processing device 14 can execute instructions for performing the methods described herein, which will be described in detail with respect to the example shown in FIG. 3.

[0071] FIG. 2 schematically shows an exemplary computer network environment 100 for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, system 100 includes a plurality of electronic communication devices 110, a decision-making support system 120, and a network 130. Although four electronic communication devices 110 are shown, any number of electronic communication devices 110 can be used.

[0072] Queries are sent from the electronic communication devices 110 through the network 130 to the decision-making support system 120 and can perform the calculation of one or more sun protection indices of the ultraviolet filter composition. The query can include information regarding the target formulation type of the ultraviolet filter composition. In the example of FIG. 2, the device shown in FIG. 1 can be implemented as, or within, the decision-making support system 120. The device 10 processes the query and determines the performance index of the sunscreen product. The result of the query is returned from the decision-making support system 120 through the network 130 to the electronic communication devices 110. In FIG. 2, a single decision-making support system 120 is shown by way of example, but note that the functionality of the decision-making support system 120 can be distributed across multiple servers that can be clustered, can be geographically distributed across the network 130, or can be any combination thereof.

[0073] The electronic communication device 110 can function as a terminal of the decision-making support system 120, a graphical display client, or other network client. The electronic communication device 110 can include an application configured to interface with web services provided by the decision-making support system 120. For example, the web browser application of the electronic communication device 110 can support an interface with the web server application of the decision-making support system 120. Such a browser can support an interface with the decision-making support system 120 using controls, plugins, or applets. The electronic communication device 110 can use other customized programs, applications, or modules to interface with the decision-making support system 120. The electronic communication device 110 can be a desktop computer, laptop, handheld, mobile device, cell phone, server, terminal, sink client, or any other computerized device.

[0074] Network 130 can be any communication network that can support communication between the electronic communication device 110 and the decision-making support system 120. Network 130 can be wired, wireless, optical, wireless communication, packet switching, circuit switching, or any combination thereof. Network 130 can use any topology, and the links of Network 130 can be 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 network mechanism, etc., and can support any network technology, protocol, or bandwidth. Network 130 can be an intranet, the Internet (or World Wide Web), LAN, WAN, MAN, or any other network for interconnecting computers. To support a large amount of data and load, a distributed computing environment can be implemented using network technologies that can include, but are not limited to, TCP / IP, RPC, RMI, HHTP, web services (such as XML-RPC, JAX-RPC, SOAP, etc.).

[0075] In addition to the exemplary network environment shown in FIG. 2, it should be understood that the decision-making support system 120 and the electronic communication device 110 can also be combined into a single computing device. Such a combined computing device can support the calculation of various sun protection indices of the ultraviolet filter composition.

[0076] FIG. 3 shows a flowchart illustrating a computer-implemented method 200 for determining the performance of a sunscreen product containing at least one ultraviolet filter.

[0077] In block 210, i.e., in step a), a calculation model for calculating the performance index of a sunscreen product is provided. The calculation model uses the characteristics of the UV filter (e.g., extinction, light stability only, or light stability of a combination thereof), and applies a gamma distribution as a model to determine the thickness distribution of the film of the sunscreen product. In some examples, the calculation model can be stored in the decision support system 120 shown in FIG. 2. The electronic communication device 110 can include a web browser application or other customized program, application, or module configured to interface with the web service provided by the decision support system 120. Through the web browser application or other customized program, application, or module, the user can access or obtain the calculation model of the decision support system 120, for example, using a username and password authentication, etc.

[0078] The performance index can 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 by the presence of the sunscreen. This coefficient is given by the reciprocal 1 / T of the UV transmittance of the absorption film. At a specific wavelength λ, (1 / T(λ)) is also called the monochromatic protection factor (MPF). Since the spectral range related to the formation of erythema is from 290 nm to 400 nm, the monochromatic protection factor needs to be averaged over this range. To obtain the SPF, this average needs to be weighted by the intensity of the light source, S s (λ) and the erythema action spectrum, S er (λ) and the following formula needs to be derived:

Equation

[0079] For example, the basic principle of UVA-PF calculation (or PPD calculation) is similar to that of SPF calculation, but it differs depending on the spectral range used and the action spectrum used. The spectral range related to the prevention of UVA light is from 320 nm to 400 nm. The monochromatic protection factor needs to be averaged over this range. To obtain UVA-PF, this average value needs to be weighted by the intensity of the light source, S s (λ) and the persistent pigment darkening action spectrum, S PPD (λ), and the following equation needs to be derived:

Equation

[0080] When calculating the UV transmittance T(λ), it is necessary to consider the irregular film thickness distribution, because the human skin itself is somewhat rough, so the sunscreen product cannot be applied uniformly, for example, with the same thickness, over the entire human skin. This is very important because the light transmittance of an absorption film with a uniform thickness is lower than that of the corresponding irregular film with the same average thickness.

[0081] To explain the irregularities of the sunscreen film, several models have been published. For example, there is the model of Ferrero and colleagues published in L. Ferrero, M. Pissavini, S. Marguerie, L. Zastrow. J. Cosmet. Sci, 54, 63 (2003). In this model, the profile of the film becomes equivalent to the bearing area curve of Abbot and Firestone, and is constructed based on the cumulative distribution function F(h) that includes 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: [Equation] (where h is the random variable "relative height", c is the adjustable shape parameter, b is necessary for normalization, and r(c) is the value of the gamma function at c). The cumulative height distribution F(h) is obtained by integrating f(h): [Equation]

[0082] To construct the film thickness profile, h is estimated from its cumulative distribution F(h) in the range from 0 to 1. Subsequently, the transmittance of the film can be calculated: [Equation]

[0083] The transmittance calculated in Equation (5) can be input into Equation (1) or Equation (2) to obtain the calculated SPF value (referred to as the in silico SPF) or the calculated UVA-PF value (referred to as the in silico UVA-PF). The shape parameter c is a screw that can be adjusted to fit the calculated results to the in vivo SPF and / or in vitro SPF.

[0084] In block 220, that is, in step b), the target formulation type of the sunscreen product is provided. A two-way user interface can be provided using a graphical user interface to enable the user to select one or more target formulation types.

[0085] Figures 4A-4C show an exemplary implementation of a two-way user interface that enables the evaluation of the interaction between formulation types and performance indices. The interfaces of the illustrated examples display a plurality of facets. For example, the facets shown are "Filter Selection", "Formulation Type Selection", and "Performance Index". In the examples shown in Figures 4A-4C, the performance index is SPF. The layout, number, and order of the facets, as well as the specific names of the facets, are presented only for illustrative purposes. Of course, other layouts, numbers, orders, or names of the facets can be dynamically displayed.

[0086] Although not shown in Figures 4A-4C, it should be understood that the user can have the opportunity to select and specify cosmetic ingredients of the sunscreen formulation, such as emulsifiers, emulsion polymers, skin softeners, hydrophilic humectants, waxes, thickening polymers, viscosity improvers, silicon-based compounds, pH adjusters, activators, preservatives, and fragrances. One or more facets (not shown) can be provided so that the user can select one or more desired ingredients and specify the proportions of the selected ingredients.

[0087] Under the "Filter Selection" facet, the user has the opportunity to select one or more UV filters and specify the proportion of each UV filter. In the examples shown in Figures 4A-4C, the following UV filters are selected: BEMT (INCI: bis-ethylhexyl oxy-phenol methoxyphenyl triazine), DHHB (INCI: diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexyl benzoate), EHS (INCI: ethylhexyl salicylate), and EHT (INCI: ethylhexyl triazone).

[0088] In the "Formulation Type Selection" facet, the user has the opportunity to select one or more formulation types. Examples of formulation types include, but are not limited to, oil-in-water liquid emulsions, oil-in-water cream emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, water-in-oil-in-water emulsions, oil-in-water-in-oil emulsions, silicone-in-water emulsions, water-in-silicone emulsions, polymer gel creams, lipophilic single-phase oils, lipophilic single-phase gels, lipophilic single-phase sticks, lipophilic-alcoholic mixtures, hydrophilic single-phase liquids, hydrophilic single-phase gels, and powders.

[0089] As shown in the examples represented in FIGS. 4A - 4C, the SPF value is shown on the interface according to the ultraviolet filter composition specified by the user and the selected formulation type.

[0090] Returning to FIG. 3, in block 230, that is, in step c), the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution of formula (3) is adapted to the target formulation type. The shape parameter c of formula (3) is not a simple constant but a function of TFC. This function is a saturation-like function where the slope becomes larger as TFC is lower and smaller as TFC is higher, and the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type from the perspective of the performance index of the sunscreen product.

[0091] In one example, the saturation-like function can be represented by formula (6):

Equation

[0092] In another example, the saturation-like function can be represented by formula (7):

Equation

[0093] Preferably, the adjustable parameter a1 of the shape parameter c ranges from 0.35 to 0.60, the adjustable parameter a2 of the shape parameter c ranges from 0.30 to 0.68, the adjustable parameter a3 of the shape parameter c ranges from 0.90 to 1.50, the adjustable parameter a4 of the shape parameter c is less than 8, preferably less than 6, and most preferably less than 4, and the adjustable parameter a5 of the shape parameter c ranges from 0 to 1.

[0094] A further example of the saturation-like function can be represented by formula (8): c = a1 + a2·(1 - e (-TFC·a6) ) (wherein, a1, a2, a6 are adjustable parameters and are determined for each formulation type). In formula (8), parameters a1 and a2 have the same meaning as those described with respect to formulas (6) and (7). Parameter a6 determines the steep gradient of the function. Parameters a1 and a2 are in the same ranges as those described with respect to formulas (6) and (7), and a6 is from 0.1 to 0.9.

[0095] A further example of the saturation-like function can be represented by formula (9):

Number

[0096] Figure 6 shows an example of a curve of the shape parameter c plotted against the TFCs represented by Equations (6) and (8). As shown in Figure 6, for both equations, the curves of the shape parameter c plotted against the TFCs have a steeper slope as the TFC is lower and a shallower slope as the TFC is higher. The parameters determined for the saturation-like function (6) are a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.62, a3 = 1.09, and a4 = 1.95. The determined parameters of the saturation-like function (8) are a1 = 0.37, a2 = 0.62, and a6 = 0.33.

[0097] The above exemplary saturation-like functions that describe the shape parameter c as a function of the TFC can be determined in advance for each of the different formulation types using a suitable formulation having a range of known in vivo SPF values used as a reference.

[0098] As an example, in Equation (7), different formulation types having a known in vivo SPF value range are provided as a reference. Four parameters a1 to a4 are determined for each formulation type such that the best correlation between the in silico SPF based on the determined a1 to a4 parameters and the in vivo SPF of these reference formulations is obtained. In this case, parameter a5 is set to a value of 0.5. When the filter system contains only an aqueous phase filter, or conversely, only an oil phase filter, the second term of Equation (7) containing parameter a5 becomes zero. For this purpose, combinations of filters having predicted SPF values of SPF50, SPF30, and SPF15 (calculated with BASF's sunscreen simulator (https: / / sunscreensimulator.basf.com / Sunscreen_Simulator / login)) are incorporated into different formulation types (or formulation media), and the performance of each of these formulation types containing each filter combination (predicted SPF50, predicted SPF30, and predicted SPF15) is measured in vivo at two different test institutions twice each, according to ISO24444. As an example, the obtained in vivo SPF of an oil-in-water formulation type with a predicted SPF of 15 is the average of four individual SPF measurements according to ISO24444. Using the in vivo SPF data obtained for all these reference formulation types (or formulation media), the shape parameter c is determined based on the determination of the values of parameters a1 to a4 for each formulation type, and then this data can be used to predict the performance of any other filter combination intended to be incorporated into one of the formulation types (or formulation media).

[0099] However, as shown in Figure 5A, unexpected problems were found when plotting the shape parameter c of different formulation types against the total filter concentration (TFC). The curves of the shape parameter c plotted against the TFC of different formulation types cross each other, such as the oil-in-water cream (O / W cream) and the oil-in-water liquid (O / W liquid) shown in Figure 5A. However, since the SPF of a specific formulation type should always be higher than that of another formulation type across the entire TFC range, the curves of the shape parameter c as a function of TFC should not cross for different formulation types.

[0100] Surprisingly, this problem could be overcome by applying the following strategy. The values of a1, a3, a4, and a6 were kept as fixed values regardless of the formulation type (or formulation medium), and only the value of a2 was different for each formulation type. In this way, it was ensured that the curves of the shape parameter c of different formulation types plotted against the TFC, such as the O / W cream and the O / W liquid shown in Figure 5B, did not cross each other. This approach made it possible to determine the value of the shape parameter c for each formulation type (or formulation medium), thereby improving the accuracy of the obtained in silico SPF, which was almost identical to the in vivo SPF of a series of reference formulations compared to the known in silico method.

[0101] Therefore, the adjustable parameters a1, a3, a4, and a6 have the same value for each formulation type (or formulation medium), while the adjustable parameter a2 is different depending on the formulation type. In other words, the amplitude of the saturation-like function is related to the performance of the formulation type from the perspective of performance indices such as the SPF of the sunscreen product. In this way, the problem of the curves of the shape parameter c crossing when plotted against the TFC was overcome.

[0102] The 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. If it is smaller than a specific value, it can affect the simulation of filter combinations with low TFC, and the SPF values of those combinations may be underestimated. For this reason, it is preferable that this parameter does not take a value smaller than the specific value. For this reason, the value of parameter a1 is desirably in the range of 0.35 to 0.60.

[0103] Parameters a3, a4, and a6 determine the form of the function of the shape parameter c plotted against TFC, that is, they affect the steepness of c as a function of 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 opposite effects on the steepness. To obtain the most realistic SPF prediction from low to very high SPF values, the value of parameter a3 is desirably preferably in the range of 0.90 to 1.50, a4 is desirably preferably less than 8, more preferably less than 6, and even more preferably less than 4, and the value of parameter a6 is desirably preferably in the range of 0.1 to 0.9.

[0104] Parameter a2 determines the amplitude of the curve of the shape parameter and thus determines the range of the calculated SPF (in silico SPF) values. If a2 is too low, all calculated SPFs, regardless of TFC, may be too small, and vice versa. To obtain the most realistic and accurate SPF prediction from low to very high SPF values, the value of parameter a2 is preferably in the range of 0.30 to 0.68.

[0105] For example, the adjustable parameters a1 to a5 of the saturation-like function of the shape parameter c (Equation (7)) were determined in advance for the reference formulation types "oil-in-water lotion" and "oil-in-water cream" using known values of in vivo SPF for different predicted SPFs (SPF50, SPF30, SPF15). The determined parameters of the saturation-like function were a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.62, a3 = 1.09, and a4 = 1.95, and a5 = 0.5 for the oil-in-water lotion, resulting in c = 1.0376, and a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.64, a3 = 1.09, and a4 = 1.95, and a5 = 0.5 for the oil-in-water cream emulsion, with the shape parameter c being 1.0542.

[0106] The obtained shape parameter c (i.e., the c value) is then used for the in silico prediction of the SPF for any combination of UV filters for each of the different formulation types (or formulation media).

[0107] Table 1 compares the in silico SPF values using values of a1 to a4 (shown as COMP1 in Table 1) outside the preferred ranges and the in silico SPF values using values of a1 to a4 (shown as Cream INV1 in Table 1) within the preferred ranges for different compositions of the cream formulation. In particular, in the simulation of COMP1, a1 = 0.33 is outside the range of 0.35 - 0.60, a2 = 0.69 is outside the range of 0.30 - 0.68, a3 = 0.89 is outside the range of 0.90 - 1.50, a4 = 1.95, and a5 = 0.50. In contrast to the simulation of COMP1, in the simulation of Cream INV1, for different compositions of the cream formulation, a1 = 0.40, a2 = 0.64, a3 = 1.09, a4 = 1.95, a5 = 0.50. All of these parameters are within the above - mentioned preferred ranges. As can be seen from Table 1, compared with the in silico SPF obtained with the parameters of COMP1, the in silico SPF obtained with the parameters of INV1 is closer to the reference in - vivo SPF and within + / - 15% of the in - vivo SPF for different compositions of the cream formulation. For the INV1 cream, the prediction of SPF is more accurate.

[0108]

Table 1

[0109] BMDBM: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, OCR: Octocrylene, EHS: Ethylhexyl Salicylate, BEMT: Bisethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, MBBT: Methylene Bisbenzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, EHMC: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, DHHB: Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, EHT: Ethylhexyl Triazone, BEMT Aq corresponds to the effective amount of BEMT in the commercial product Tinosorb S Lite Aqua (2% BEMT Aq corresponds to 10% of Tinosorb S Lite Aqua), TBPT: Trisbiphenyl Triazine, PBSA: Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, DBT: Diethylhexyl Butamidotriazine, TiO2: Titanium Dioxide.

[0110] * refers to the effective amount of the commercial product MT-100Z. Each titanium dioxide grade (commercial product) may have slightly different absorption spectra, for example, due to coating differences. Therefore, in the calculation model, by considering the absorption spectra of each titanium dioxide grade, the accuracy of the calculated performance can be further improved. (1) Appendix c of ISO24444 (2) ISO24444 test and screening test conducted by an external institution (3) Sunscreen formulation meeting the criteria of Appendix c of ISO24444.

[0111] Table 2 compares the in silico SPF using values of a1 to a4 outside the preferred range (shown as COMP1 in Table 2) as a comparison set with the in silico SPF using values of a1 to a4 within the preferred range (shown as lotion INV2 in Table 2) for different compositions of the lotion formulation (water-in-oil liquid emulsion). In Table 2, the simulation of COMP1 uses the same values from a1 to a4 as in Table 1. In the simulation of lotion INV2, the adjustable parameters a1, a3, and a4 have the same values for each formulation type, and only the adjustable parameter a2 varies by formulation type. Thus, in the simulation of lotion INV2 (Table 2), the values of parameters a1, a3, and a4 are the same as in the simulation of cream INV1 shown in Table 1, but the adjustable parameter a2 is different. For example, in the simulation of cream INV1 shown in Table 1, a2 = 0.64, and in the simulation of lotion INV2 shown in Table 2, a2 = 0.62. As can be seen from Table 2, compared with the in silico SPF obtained with the parameters of COMP1, the in silico SPF obtained with the parameters of the simulation of lotion INV2 is also close to the in vivo SPF and within + / - 15% of the in vivo SPF for different compositions of the lotion formulation. In the lotion of INV2, the prediction of SPF is more accurate.

[0112]

Table 2

[0113] ZnO, zinc oxide * refers to the effective amount of the commercial product Z - Cote HP1. Since each zinc oxide grade (different commercial products) may have slightly different absorption spectra, for example, due to differences in coating, considering the absorption spectra of each zinc oxide grade in the calculation model can improve the accuracy of the calculated performance. (1) Appendix c of ISO24444 (2) ISO24444 tests and screening tests conducted by an external institution (3) Sunscreen formulations that meet the criteria in Appendix c of ISO24444.

[0114] Using the values of the adjustable parameters within the above - preferred ranges and the values of the adjustable parameters of the comparison set (COMP1 in Tables 1 and 2), the correlation relationship shown by the formula in Table 3 between the in - silico SPF and in - vivo SPF of a series of different formulation types was tested.

[0115] In Table 3, the slope of the formula for testing the relationship between in - silico SPF and in - vivo SPF becomes closer to 1 when using the adjustable parameters within the above - preferred ranges compared to the values of the adjustable parameters of the comparative test (COMP1). This indicates that the correlation relationship and performance prediction within the above - preferred ranges are more improved. In Table 3, y corresponds to the in - silico SPF and x corresponds to the in - vivo SPF.

[0116]

Table 3

[0117] Therefore, since the shape parameter c of Equation (3) that describes the applied sunscreen thickness distribution layer is adaptable according to the formulation type (or formulation medium) specified by the user, the determined in silico SPF takes into account not only the properties of the UV filters and their interactions, but also the formulation type of the sunscreen product (e.g., oil-in-water liquid, oil-in-water cream, etc.) for which the combination of UV filters is intended to be used. For different formulation types (or formulation media), the adjustable parameters (a1 - a6) of the function of the shape parameter c shown in Equations (6), (7), or (8) can be determined based on in vitro and / or in vivo clinical experimental data. For example, the in vivo SPF values of different reference formulation types containing the same combination of UV filters can be measured, and the shape parameter c can be determined using these experimental in vivo data so that the in silico SPF is equal to, or as close as possible to, the in vivo SPF. The experiments can cover, for example, a very wide range from a low SPF (e.g., SPF ≤ 10) to a very high SPF (e.g., SPF = 50+), and can be performed over different ranges of SPF values to improve the accuracy of the prediction. In other words, several combinations of UV filters targeting different SPF values are tested in different formulation types, and the shape parameter c for each formulation type is obtained.

[0118] Returning to FIG. 3, in block 240 of FIG. 3, i.e., in step d), the performance index (e.g., SPF) of the UV filter composition in the target formulation type is determined 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 of Equation (3) is adaptable according to the change in the formulation type selected by the user.

[0119] For example, as shown by way of example in FIG. 4A, a user can select "oil-in-water liquid emulsion" as the formulation type of interest. Depending on the formulation type specified or selected by the user, an SPF value of 12 is calculated using the shape parameter c defined for the oil-in-water liquid formulation type and is shown under the facet "Performance Index". In the example shown in FIG. 4B, the user can select "lipophilic single-phase liquid" as the formulation type of interest. Depending on the formulation type specified or selected by the user, an SPF value of 8 is determined using the shape parameter c defined for the "lipophilic single-phase liquid" formulation type and is shown under the facet "Performance Index". Considering the influence of the formulation type, different formulation types shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B have different in silico SPF values even though they have the same UV filter composition. In some examples, the user may have the opportunity to select more than one formulation type. As shown by way of example in FIG. 4C, the user can select multiple formulation types such as "oil-in-water" and "lipophilic single-phase liquid". The SPF values for these formulation types are then calculated and shown under the facet "Performance Index".

[0120] Returning to FIG. 3, at block 250, i.e., in step e), the determined performance index of the sunscreen product having the formulation type of interest is provided, which is preferably available for use in the manufacture of the sunscreen product. For example, the determined performance index can be returned from the decision support system 120 to the electronic communication device 110 via the network 130. For example, the determined performance index can be stored in the decision support system 120.

[0121] FIG. 7 shows a flowchart illustrating a method 300 for providing the manufacture of a sunscreen product.

[0122] In block 310, a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type is provided. For example, a user can select one or more ultraviolet filter substances, one or more cosmetic ingredients, and a formulation type via the exemplary interfaces shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C. Examples of ultraviolet filter substances can be found in Annex VI of 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 liquid emulsions, oil-in-water cream emulsions, water-in-oil emulsions, water-in-oil-in-water emulsions, oil-in-water-in-oil emulsions, silicone-in-water emulsions, water-in-silicone emulsions, polymer gel creams, lipophilic single-phase oils, lipophilic single-phase gels, lipophilic single-phase sticks, lipophilic-alcoholic mixtures, hydrophilic single-phase liquids, hydrophilic single-phase gels, and powders.

[0123] In block 320, using the composition provided according to the method described herein, the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product is determined. An exemplary method is described with respect to FIG. 3. The user can change, for example, the type and / or number of ultraviolet filter substances, the type and / or number of cosmetic ingredients, the type of formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water cream, oil-in-water liquid, etc.) via the exemplary interfaces shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C until the calculated performance index meets a predefined criterion. In some examples, the predefined criterion can be that the difference between the measured performance index and the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product is less than a predetermined threshold. In some examples, the predefined criterion can be that the measured performance index is closest to the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product.

[0124] In block 330, a sunscreen product is manufactured using a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type.

[0125] In block 340, the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product is provided. The measured performance index can include one or more characteristics such as SPF and UVA-PF.

[0126] In block 350, the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product is compared with the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product, and it is determined whether the manufactured sunscreen product meets a predetermined quality standard.

[0127] The comparison can be performed by comparing one or more physical, chemical, or physico-chemical characteristics related to the performance index. For example, the measured SPF of the manufactured sunscreen product can be compared with the calculated SPF of the target sunscreen product. For example, the measured UVA-PF of the manufactured sunscreen product can be compared with the calculated UVA-PF of the target sunscreen product.

[0128] The calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product, the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product, or any corresponding values derived therefrom can be used for verification. Such verification can be done by comparing values or ranges of values.

[0129] If the value is within an acceptable range or value, such as within an interval of one or two standard deviations, the measured manufactured composition can be valid in the sense that it meets the performance criteria. If the value is not within an acceptable range such as within an interval of one or two standard deviations, the measured manufactured composition can be invalid in the sense that it does not meet the performance criteria.

[0130] If the manufactured composition is valid, for example, in block 360, a control signal for the production process can be triggered. Such a control signal can be associated with the composition of the produced product. This can control a dosing device for dosing different substances of the product produced in the production process.

[0131] If the manufactured product is invalid, for example, a warning signal for the operator of the production process can be triggered at block 370. Such a warning signal can indicate the invalidity of the manufactured product. The invalidity can trigger a stop signal for the production process. In such a case, an optimization signal can be generated to achieve the calculated performance index of the manufactured product for the production of the manufactured product. The optimization signal can be used to update the composition provided at block 310. For example, the optimization signal can change one or more of the type and / or number of ultraviolet filter substances, the type and / or number of cosmetic ingredients, the type of formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water cream, oil-in-water liquid, etc.), and their ratios to achieve the target performance index of the product to be manufactured. In some examples, method 300 can be performed over multiple repetitions during a trial run, and one or more parameters of the composition can be adjusted repeatedly to approximate the target performance index. Through successive repetitions, one or more parameters of the composition, such as the type and / or number of ultraviolet filter substances, the type and / or number of cosmetic ingredients, the type of formulation type (e.g., oil-in-water cream, oil-in-water liquid, etc.), and their ratios, can be improved such that the manufactured product meets a predetermined quality standard. If the manufactured product is determined to be valid, then the process proceeds to block 360 and the production process can be started.

[0132] By considering the formulation type when determining the sun protection performance, the difference between the calculated sun protection performance and the sun protection performance measured in vivo can be reduced, thereby reducing the number of repetitions performed to iteratively improve one or more parameters of the composition with respect to the target performance index. This can reduce large-scale trial runs in the manufacture of the target sunscreen product.

[0133] Figure 8 shows an example of a flowchart illustrating a method 400 for verifying the manufacture of a sunscreen product.

[0134] In block 410, a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type is provided. The provided composition differs by at least one different substance from the composition of existing produced sunscreen products and / or is of a different formulation type. The exchange of substances may be desired for various reasons, such as the existence of competing intellectual property rights, regulatory issues in various countries, or lack of resources. The provided composition and existing produced sunscreen products can include different formulation types. For example, an existing produced sunscreen product can be an oil-in-water cream, while the provided composition can be used with an oil-in-water liquid.

[0135] In block 420, the calculated performance index of the provided composition according to the method described herein. An exemplary implementation of the method is described with respect to FIG. 3.

[0136] In block 430, a sunscreen product is manufactured using the provided composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type. In other words, the ultraviolet filter composition is intended to be formulated in a formulation type (e.g., water-in-oil emulsion). The manufactured product differs from existing produced sunscreen products by at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type.

[0137] In block 440, the measured performance index of the manufactured product is compared with the existing performance index of existing sunscreen products to verify at least one substance and / or a different formulation type. If the comparison is within an acceptable range, at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type of the manufactured product is effective. On the other hand, if the comparison is not within the acceptable range, at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type is ineffective.

[0138] If at least one different substance and / or different formulation type is effective, for example, at block 450, a control signal generated by a production process based on at least one substance can be triggered. Such a control signal can be associated with a composition of a sunscreen product that includes at least one different substance and / or different formulation type. This can control a dosing device configured to administer different substances of the sunscreen product in the production process.

[0139] If at least one different substance and / or different formulation type is ineffective, for example, at block 460, a warning signal can be triggered for an operator of the production process. Such a warning signal may indicate the ineffectiveness of at least one different substance and / or different formulation type. This can trigger a stop signal for the production process.

[0140] Figure 9 shows an example of a production line 500 for manufacturing a sunscreen product equipped with a monitoring device 520.

[0141] The production line 500 can include a dosing device 510 configured to administer different substances of the sunscreen product during the production process. The production line 500 can include, for example, a conveyor system 530 for transporting bottles for filling the sunscreen product, plastic packaging, or other suitable packaging. The production line 500 can include a monitoring device 520 configured to monitor the quality of the sunscreen product in the production process.

[0142] The monitoring device 520 and / or the dosing device 510 can be configured to receive the performance index of the sunscreen product and the composition data of the sunscreen product containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances by formulation type. The target performance index can include quality criteria such as SPF and / or UVA-PF. The monitoring device 520 can be configured to provide the composition data to the dosing device. The dosing device 510 can be configured to control the dosing based on the provided composition data.

[0143] The monitoring device 520 can be configured to receive the measured performance index of the produced product. If the comparison is within the acceptable range or value, the produced composition meets the quality criteria. If the comparison is not within the acceptable range or value, the produced composition does not meet the quality criteria. In the latter case, the monitoring device can be configured to notify the operator or provide adjusted composition data to the dosing device 510.

[0144] Figure 10 shows another example of a production line 600 for manufacturing a sunscreen product equipped with a verification device 610.

[0145] The production line 600 can include a dosing device 620 configured to administer different substances of the sunscreen product in the production process. The production line 600 can include, for example, a conveyor system 630 for transporting bottles for filling the sunscreen product, plastic packaging, or other suitable packaging. The production line 600 can include a verification device 610 configured to verify the production of the sunscreen product.

[0146] The verification device 610 can be configured to receive existing performance indices of sunscreen products (e.g., SPF, UVA-PF, etc.). The verification device 610 can be configured to generate an optimization signal based on the existing performance indices. The optimization signal can include information regarding at least one new substance and / or new formulation type. The verification device 610 can be configured to verify at least one different substance and / or different formulation type for the production of sunscreen products. The verification device 610 can be configured to compare the performance index of a sunscreen product produced using the new optimization signal with the existing performance index. The verification device 610 can be configured to provide composition data including at least one different substance to a dosing device.

[0147] Combinations and modifications of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 are similarly possible. Both methods exemplify the advantages of the methods described herein. Thereby, by monitoring the production of sunscreen products or by verifying new substances and / or new formulation types used in the manufacture of sunscreen products, simplified and more reliable production becomes possible.

[0148] In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, there is provided a computer program or computer program element, characterized in that it is configured to carry out the method steps of a method according to one of the previous embodiments in a suitable system. Accordingly, the computer program element can be stored in a computer device, which can also be part of an embodiment of the invention. This computing device can be configured to carry out or induce the execution of the method steps of the method described above. Further, this can be configured to operate the components of the device described above. The computing device can be configured to operate automatically and / or to carry out the instructions of a user. The computer program can be loaded into the working memory of a data processor. Thus, the data processor can be equipped to execute the method of the invention.

[0149] This exemplary embodiment of the invention encompasses both a computer program that initially uses the invention and a computer program that, through an update, changes an existing program into a program that uses the invention.

[0150] Furthermore, the computer program elements may be capable of providing all the steps necessary to perform the procedures of the exemplary embodiments of the present method described above. According to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, a computer-readable medium such as a CD-ROM is presented, and the computer program elements are stored on this computer-readable medium, and these computer program elements are described in the previous section.

[0151] The computer program can be stored in and / or distributed on a suitable medium such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium that is supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless electrical communication systems.

[0152] However, the computer program can also be presented via a network such as the World Wide Web and downloaded from such a network into the working memory of a data processor. According to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention, a medium is provided that enables the computer program elements to be downloaded, and these computer program elements are configured to implement the method according to one of the above embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A computer implementation method (200) for determining the performance of a sunscreen product of a formulation type that includes at least one ultraviolet filter, a) A step (210) to provide a calculation model for calculating the performance index of a sunscreen product, wherein the calculation model applies a continuous film thickness distribution defined by a gamma distribution as a model to determine the film thickness distribution of the applied sunscreen product (210), b) A step (220) of providing the desired formulation type of the sunscreen product, c) A step (230) to adapt the shape parameter c of the gamma distribution to the target formulation type, d) A step (240) of determining the performance index of the ultraviolet filter composition in the target formulation type using the adapted shape parameters of the gamma distribution, e) A step (250) to provide a determined performance index of the sunscreen product having the formulation type of the target which is preferably usable in the manufacture of the sunscreen product, Includes, The shape parameter c is a function of the total filter concentration, TFC, and the function is a saturation-like function in which the slope is steeper as TFC is lower and smaller as TFC is higher, and the amplitude of the function is related to the performance of the formulation type in terms of the performance index of the sunscreen product, computer implementation method (200).

2. The aforementioned saturation-like function is, [Math 1] (In the formula, c is the shape parameter, and a1, a2, a3, and a4 are adjustable parameters determined for each formulation type.) The computer implementation method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

3. The adjustable parameters a1, a2, a3, and a4 are within the following ranges: - 0.35 ≤ a1 ≤ 0.6, - 0.3 ≤ a² ≤ 0.68, - 0.9 ≤ a3 ≤ 1.5, and - a4 ≤ 8 A computer implementation method according to claim 2, comprising:

4. The aforementioned saturation-like function is, [Math 2] (In the formula, c is the shape parameter, a1, a2, a3, a4, and a5 are adjustable parameters which are determined for each formulation type, and REAE is the relative erythematous absorbance of the oil phase.) The computer implementation method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

5. The parameters a1, a2, a3, a4, and a5 are within the following ranges: - 0.35 ≤ a1 ≤ 0.6, - 0.3 ≤ a² ≤ 0.68, - 0.9 ≤ a3 ≤ 1.5, - a4 ≤ 8, and - 0 ≤ a5 ≤ 1 A computer implementation method according to claim 4, comprising:

6. The aforementioned saturation-like function is, c=a1+a2・(1-e （－ＴＦＣ・ａ６） ) (wherein c is the shape parameter, a1, a2, and a6 are adjustable parameters which are determined for each formulation type, and parameters a1 and a2 are in the same range as described in claim 5, with 0.1 ≤ a6 ≤ 0.9) The computer implementation method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

7. The aforementioned saturation-like function is, [Math 3] (wherein c is the shape parameter, a1, a2, and a6 are adjustable parameters within the same range as described in claim 6, where 0 ≤ a5 ≤ 1) The computer implementation method according to claim 1, including the method described in claim 1.

8. The computer implementation method according to claim 1, wherein the performance index includes sun protection factor, SPF, and / or UVA protection factor, UVA-PF.

9. The aforementioned formulation type is - Oil-in-water liquid emulsion, - Oil-in-water cream emulsion, - Water-in-oil emulsion, - Oil-in-water emulsion, - Water-in-oil emulsion, - Water-in-silicone emulsion, - Underwater silicone emulsion, - Polymer gel cream, - Lipophilic single-phase oil, - Lipophilic single-phase gel, - Lipophilic single-phase stick, - Lipophilic-alcoholic mixture, - Hydrophilic single-phase liquid, - Hydrophilic single-phase gel, and - powder The computer implementation method according to claim 1, comprising one or more of the following.

10. The computer implementation method according to claim 1, wherein the adjustable parameters of the function that determines the adapted shape parameters are obtained from experimental data of SPF and / or UVA-PF.

11. The computer implementation method according to claim 1, wherein the sunscreen product further comprises one or more cosmetic ingredients.

12. A method for manufacturing sunscreen products (300), - A step (310) of providing a composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type, - A step (320) of determining the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product according to the method of claim 1, - A step (330) of manufacturing a sunscreen product using the composition containing one or more ultraviolet filter substances within the formulation type, A method (300) for manufacturing a sunscreen product, including the following.

13. - A step (340) to provide the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product, - A step (350) to determine whether the manufactured sunscreen product meets a predetermined quality standard by comparing the measured performance index of the manufactured sunscreen product with the calculated performance index of the target sunscreen product, The computer implementation method according to claim 12, further comprising:

14. If the manufactured sunscreen product is determined to meet the predetermined quality standards, a step (360) to generate a control signal that can be used to control the production process; or, if the manufactured sunscreen product is determined not to meet the predetermined quality standards, a step (370) to generate a warning signal that can be used to indicate the invalidity of the manufactured product; and / or a step (370) to generate an optimization signal that can be used to modify the provided composition so that the manufactured sunscreen product meets the predetermined quality standards. The computer implementation method according to claim 12, further comprising:

15. - A step (410) of providing a composition comprising one or more ultraviolet filter substances in a formulation type, wherein the provided composition differs from existing sunscreen product compositions by at least one different substance and / or a different formulation type. - A step (420) of determining the calculated performance of the provided composition according to the method of claim 1, - A step of manufacturing a sunscreen product using a composition comprising one or more ultraviolet filter substances within the formulation type, wherein the manufactured product is different from the existing produced sunscreen product in that at least one different substance and / or the different formulation type differs from step (430), - A step (440) of verifying the at least one substance and / or the different formulation type by comparing the measured performance index of the manufactured product with the existing performance index of the existing sunscreen product, A method for verifying the manufacture of sunscreen products, including (400).

16. Apparatus (10) for determining a formulation type composition comprising one or more ultraviolet filter substances, wherein the apparatus includes one or more processing units configured to determine the composition of the filter substances forming the sunscreen composition, the one or more processing units include instructions, the instructions, when performed by the one or more processing units, perform the steps according to claim 1.

17. - Monitoring device (520), - Administration device (510), Includes, An apparatus for manufacturing a sunscreen product, wherein the monitoring device is configured to control the dispensing device to manufacture the sunscreen product described in claim 12.

18. Apparatus (610) for verifying the manufacture of sunscreen products, the apparatus comprising one or more processing units configured to verify the production of sunscreen products, the processing units comprising instructions, which, when performed by the one or more processing units, perform the method according to claim 15.

19. A computer program element that, when implemented by a processing device, includes an instruction causing the processing device to perform a step of the method according to claim 1.

20. A computer-readable medium on which the computer program elements described in claim 19 are stored.

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