Breast cancer detection device using visible light, thermal infrared sensors, and image processing

Abstract

A breast cancer detection device using visible light, thermal infrared sensors, and image processing is a medical and oncology tool designed to address the limitations of X-ray technology, which is unsuitable for certain individuals, such as pregnant women, and to overcome the cost and inaccessibility issues associated with traditional equipment. When the device's head is placed around the breast area and activated, an electrical current flows from the rechargeable batteries to the programmed circuit board. Subsequently, the device's red and green LEDs light up, and the light intensity is adjusted using a volume knob. Opposite the LEDs, a camera is positioned to identify skin and breast irregularities and unevenness. Additionally, a thermal infrared sensor detects areas with higher temperatures compared to surrounding regions, which can indicate the presence of a tumor.

Description

English Description DescriptionTitle of Invention : Breast Cancer Detection Device Using Visible Light, Thermal Infrared Sensors, and Image ProcessingTechnical Field

[0001] This invention pertains to the field of medical equipment and oncology.Background Art

[0002] Currently, initial breast cancer examinations are conducted in medical offices through physical palpation of the breast area. Based on a review of internal databases, the following cases were identified:

[0003] 1- Diagnostic sensor for measuring breast cancer biomarkers (Registration No.103349, 2019):

[0004] This invention introduces a diagnostic sensor for measuring breast cancer biomarkers. The covering agent used is a compound called Nereistoxin. Unlike conventional covering agents like mercaptohexanol, which reduce easurement signal strength and ultimately the sensor's response, this sensor uses olybdenum sulfide composite on graphene nanosheets. This method eliminates the need for enzymes or labeled antibodies, simplifying the process and improving system stability. It detects cancer biomarkers in blood serum samples.

[0005] In contrast, the proposed device identifies irregularities and issues in the breast tissue using visible light and image processing through an embedded camera.

[0006] 2- Microwave imaging system for breast cancer diagnosis (Registration No.100170, 2016):

[0007] This system utilizes microwave imaging, which is less hazardous than X-rays, to produce cross-sectional images of the breast that can serve as indicators for cancerous tumors. However, it is expensive, complex, and difficult to use.

[0008] The proposed device, using visible light and image processing, is simpler, safer, and more cost-effective for detecting irregularities in breast tissue.English Description

[0009] 3- One-step synthesis of novel pyrazolo[d-4,3]pyrimidine derivatives for use in anti-breast cancer pharmaceutical applications (Registration No. 81112, 2013):

[0010] This invention is entirely different in terms of structure and functionality from the proposed device.

[0011] 4- BRCA1 mutation detection kit for breast cancer identification (Registration No. 71367, 2011):

[0012] This system uses DNA extraction and PCR amplification techniques to identify BRCA1 mutations in blood samples.

[0013] The proposed device focuses on physical detection of abnormalities in realtime, differing significantly from genetic testing.

[0014] 5- Molecular diagnosis of breast cancer (Registration No. 58606, 2009):

[0015] This method diagnoses breast cancer using patient blood samples.

[0016] 6- Recombinant antibody system for breast cancer treatment (Registration No.84753, 2014):

[0017] This invention is intended for treatment rather than diagnosis and differs in structure and application from the proposed device.

[0018] 7 - Layered chest phantom for dose measurement in breast cancer therapy (Registration No. 81674, 2012):

[0019] This system standardizes brachytherapy dosimetry for early-stage breast cancer treatment. It is entirely different from the proposed diagnostic device.

[0020] 8- Nanocapsule containing Chelidonium majus extract for breast cancer treatment (Registration No. 104980, 2019):

[0021] This study focuses on using plant extracts for breast cancer treatment, which is significantly different from the proposed diagnostic device.

[0022] 9- Combination therapy using FAST-HIF-CAR-T cells and pembrolizumab for breast cancer treatment(Registration No. 97555, 2018):

[0023] This system is intended for cancer treatment rather than diagnosis.English Description

[0024] 10- Isolation and identification of HER2-expressing breast cancer cells using modified magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (Registration No. 105134, 2019):

[0025] This method focuses on identifying cancerous cells using advanced molecular techniques, differing fundamentally from the proposed device's imaging approach.

[0026] 11- Intelligent tactile thermography device for detecting and locating tumors in brain tissue (Registration No. 87561).

[0027] 12- Intelligent infrared thermography device for detecting thyroid gland tumors (Registration No. 97194).

[0028] 13- Thermography device for detecting breast cancer using IR receivers (Registration No. 50995).

[0029] 14- Infrared thermography for burn wounds (Registration No. 42460).

[0030] 15- Pulse-based wrist thermography system for temperament assessment in Iranian traditional medicine(Registration No. 104045).

[0031] All the cases mentioned above differ entirely in terms of both structure and functionality from the proposed device. Furthermore, most of the existing systems are focused on treatment, whereas the proposed device is specifically designed for diagnosis and prevention.

[0032]

[0033] 16 - Thermography for detecting abnormalities in the breast (Patent No.1996154904)

[0034] 17 - Simultaneous MRI thermography and radiofrequency ablation process (Patent No. 20080146912)

[0035] 18 - Method for detection of human mammary carcinoma (Patent No.4043757)

[0036] The proposed device is designed with innovative steps that distinguish it from existing technologies. Its flexible and adjustable design allows customization of the base and head of the device to match the patient's height and positioning. Using red and green visible light LEDs enables non-invasive imaging of the breast area, where tumors appear darker due to different light absorption.English Description

[0037] Key features include:a. 4K camera with image processing: Enables detailed analysis of suspicious tissues.b. Thermal infrared sensor: Measures surface temperature differences, enhancing tumor detection.c. Radiation-free operation: Makes it safe for all age groups, including pregnant women.d. User-friendly, cost-effective, and portable: Ensures widespread accessibility and usability.

[0038] Unlike mammography, the device does not require long intervals between uses and provides a safe, accurate, and reliable solution for early detection. Technical Problem

[0039] Breast cancer is recognized as the most common cancer among women and one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to reports from the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2.3 million new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed globally every year, making it the second leading cause of cancer- related deaths. In 2020, more than 685,000 people worldwide lost their lives to breast cancer. Additionally, statistics indicate that women have a lifetime risk of approximately 1 in 8 of developing this disease. The prevalence of breast cancer in developing countries is increasing due to lifestyle changes, urbanization, and rising life expectancy.

[0040] From a biological and physiological perspective, specific characteristics of blood flow and tumor temperature in breast tissue can serve as key indicators for diagnosing this disease. Tumors rely on the supply of oxygen and nutrients for growth and survival, leading to a process known as angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels). The newly formed blood vessels in tumors are dense but structurally imperfect, delivering increased blood flow to the tumor area.

[0041] Additionally, high metabolism, inflammation, and increased blood flow in tumor areas result in greater heat production compared to surrounding healthy tissues. These physiological changes explain why tumor temperatures are higherEnglish Description than those of normal tissues. Technologies such as thermal infrared sensors and optical image processing enable the detection of these changes and can play a significant role in the early diagnosis of breast cancer.

[0042] Currently, breast cancer is diagnosed through mammography, X-rays, and physical examination of the breast by a physician. However, manual examination lacks sufficient accuracy, and diagnostic mammography has age restrictions and specific conditions, making it unsuitable for frequent use in short intervals.Furthermore, X-ray technology cannot be used for all individuals, such as pregnant women. Rapid, early, and timely diagnosis is critical in controlling and treating this cancer.

[0043] Given that the most well-known symptom of breast cancer is the presence of a lump or mass within breast tissue, we aimed to develop a device using visible light, thermal infrared sensors, and image processing to perform examinations and assessments quickly and without radiation. This device can facilitate early diagnosis and help prevent the onset of breast cancer.Solution to Problem

[0044] This device is an innovative system for non-invasive breast cancer detection, consisting of two main components: the base and the head of the device. The design allows for adjustment and adaptation to the physical conditions of the patient, addressing issues associated with traditional diagnostic methods.

[0045] The base of the device (Figure 5) is designed with adjustable size and angle and is composed of movable parts that can be customized according to the patient's height and position. This high degree of flexibility ensures that the patient’s posture — whether sitting or standing — does not affect the accuracy of the diagnostic process.

[0046] The head of the device (Figure 9), which performs the primary diagnostic function, includes several specialized components. The connection area between the device and the tissue is adjustable and modeled on an origami structure (Figure 13), enabling it to conform appropriately to the size of each patient's breast. This section is equipped with red visible light LEDs (9) and flexible green LED strips (12) to illuminate the area being examined. These LEDs can illuminateEnglish Description the breast area in a dark environment using red or green light (individually or simultaneously, depending on the physician's needs). When these lights shine on the surface of the breast, potential tumors appear as darker regions due to their higher absorption of light compared to healthy tissue. The light intensity can be adjusted using touch sensors (7 and 8).

[0047] To capture these changes, the device is equipped with an advanced 12- megapixel camera with 4K imaging capability(11) and an adjustable lens (1), which records high-quality images of the area under examination. These images are analyzed using image processing technology and an onboard circuit board (13), identifying the location, size, and characteristics of any tumors. Additionally, alongside the camera, a thermal infrared sensor (8) is included to measure the surface temperature of the breast area. Due to higher metabolism and increased blood flow, tumors have a higher temperature compared to healthy tissue. The thermal sensor detects these temperature differences, pinpointing areas suspected of having tumors.

[0048] It is worth noting that for ease of use in various locations, the device is powered by a rechargeable single-cell lithium polymer battery (5). Energy is supplied through a Type-C charging port (10) and an adapter, depending on the physician's requirements.

[0049] This device offers a safe, precise, and non-invasive solution, reducing the reliance on radiation-based methods and enabling the early detection of tumors. These features make this technology a key tool in improving breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.Advantageous Effects of Inventiona. This device detects irregularities using visible light, thermal infrared sensors, and image processing, without any side effects or harmful radiation.b. It is suitable for all age groups.c. The device can be adjusted based on the patient’s height, positioning, and breast size.d. It is significantly more affordable than existing methods.English Description e. The device is portable and easier to use compared to current alternatives. f. It can be used in all locations, including remote and underserved areas. g. It helps prevent breast cancer and is suitable for repeated use.Brief Description of Drawings

[0050] Figure 1 : A 3D view of the entire device and its components, shown schematically for general usability.

[0051] Figure 2: A 3D front view of the device.

[0052] Figure 3: A 3D side view of the device.

[0053] Figure 4: A 3D top view of the device.

[0054] Figure 5: Adjustable mechanical base for positioning the device and height adjustment based on the individual's height.

[0055] Figure 6: Collapsed and compact view of the adjustable mechanical base for positioning the device and height adjustment based on the individual's height.

[0056] Figure 7: Front view of the adjustable mechanical base for positioning the device and height adjustment based on the individual's height.

[0057] Figure 8: Side view of the adjustable mechanical base for positioning the device and height adjustment based on the individual's height.

[0058] Figure 9: A 3D exploded view of the device, showing its components. This figure includes:a. Camera lens with manual zoom adjustment.b. Device housing.c. Location for the MLX90614 temperature sensor module.d. PCB board for electronic components.e. Rechargeable single-cell lithium polymer battery for powering the system. f. Touch sensor for increasing light and temperature.g. Touch sensor for decreasing light and temperature.h. MLX90614 temperature sensor module.i. Four 3-watt red LEDs.j. Type-C charging port.k. 12-megapixel camera with 4K imaging capability.l. Flexible green LED strip.m. Electronic board.

[0059] Figure 10: A 3D schematic view of the electronic components together.English Description

[0060] Figure 11 : A 3D top schematic view of the electronic components.

[0061] Figure 12: A 3D side schematic view of the electronic components.

[0062] Figure 13: A 3D view of the origami-inspired structure for attachment and adjustment over breasts of different sizes.

[0063] Figure 14: A 3D top view of the origami-inspired structure.

[0064] Figure 15: A 3D front view of the origami-inspired structure.Examples

[0065] In many underserved areas, high costs, limited access to mammography equipment, and a shortage of specialists lead to delays in diagnosing breast cancer. These delays often allow the disease to progress to untreatable stages. Due to its simple and portable design, this device can be easily transported to small healthcare centers or remote areas.

[0066] The device is placed around the breast area, its angle and height are adjusted, and the head of the device is configured according to the patient’s breast size. Using red and green LEDs, the device identifies tumors through image processing and thermal infrared sensors.

[0067] The images and data recorded by the device can be transmitted via internet connections to specialists in urban centers for final diagnosis and treatment consultations. This method not only reduces diagnostic costs but also significantly lowers breast cancer mortality rates in underserved areas.Industrial Applicability

[0068] This device can be used in:a. Medical clinics and hospitalsb. Screening and health centersc. Occupational health servicesd. Remote and underserved arease. Universities

Claims

English Claims Claims

1. An electronic device for detecting breast cancer using visible light, thermal infrared sensors, and image processing, which comprising:a. Deviceb. Camera lens with manual zoom adjustmentc. MLX90614 temperature sensor moduled. Flexible green LED stripe. Concave-shaped part

2. The electronic device for detecting breast cancer according to claim 1 , the camera, with image processing capability for detecting tissue masses and breast abnormalities, is installed on the head of the device within a concave-shaped area and alongside the camera, a thermal infrared sensor is located to identify areas with higher temperatures than their surroundings, which correspond to tumors.

3. The electronic device for detecting breast cancer according to claim 1 , the device head is designed with origami-style foldability to adjust to the size of the patient's breast and can be opened and closed as needed.

4. The electronic device for detecting breast cancer according to claim 1 , the device base is designed in modular pieces and can be adjusted according to the height, posture, and positioning angle of the patient.

5. The electronic device for detecting breast cancer according to claim 1 , the visible red and green LEDs are placed on the device handle to illuminate breast tissue in darkroom conditions, the intensity of the LEDs can be adjusted using a volume knob on the handle, to monitor the patient's treatment progress, images and videos captured during device usage are transmitted via a Bluetooth module to the physician’s mobile device or personal computer.

Images