AI Skin Analysis System Standardizing Dermatological Examinations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dermatologist office procedures for total body skin examinations lack standardization, leading to inefficiencies and challenges in diagnosing skin conditions, particularly due to issues with reproducibility, patient comfort, and the time required for comprehensive examinations.
Innovation Solution
The use of high-frequency ultrasound (HFUS) imaging combined with artificial intelligence (AI) for fully automated epidermal layer segmentation, and the implementation of wearable ultrasound patches that allow for remote and non-invasive skin examinations using AI algorithms for image analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional manual skin examination methods are used by dermatologists, then diagnostic accuracy can be maintained through expert judgment, but the process lacks standardization leading to interobserver variability and inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and physical examination methods with automated optical imaging systems and computer-based analysis algorithms. The system uses standardized photographic capture and automated image processing to eliminate interobserver variability while maintaining diagnostic accuracy, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms subjective diagnostic parameters into objective, quantifiable measurements through standardized imaging protocols and automated analysis. By converting visual assessments into measurable parameters such as lesion dimensions, color values, and texture features, the system achieves both standardization and efficiency simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive total body skin examinations are performed manually, then all skin areas can be examined, but the time required for examinations increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary automated screening of the entire body surface using standardized photographic imaging before focused analysis of suspicious areas. This preliminary capture of all skin regions enables comprehensive examination without requiring prolonged manual inspection, as the system can quickly review and prioritize areas of concern.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital copies of skin surfaces through high-resolution photography and stores them for automated analysis. These digital replicas allow for rapid, repeated examination of all skin areas without the time constraints of manual inspection, enabling complete coverage while reducing examination duration.
3Reliability
If multiple dermatologists review skin lesions to improve diagnostic accuracy, then diagnostic reliability increases, but the complexity of the examination process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an automated image analysis algorithm as an intermediary between the dermatologist and the skin lesions. This intermediary performs preliminary assessment, prioritization, and measurement of lesions, providing standardized recommendations that guide dermatologist review. This reduces the need for multiple dermatologist consultations while maintaining or improving diagnostic accuracy.
4Stability of the object's composition
If standardized protocols are implemented for skin examinations, then reproducibility improves, but the adaptability to individual patient needs decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic protocols that automatically adjust examination parameters based on individual patient characteristics such as skin type, medical history, and risk factors. The standardized imaging and analysis framework remains in place, but the system adapts the specific protocols, imaging settings, and analysis focus to each patient's needs, resolving the contradiction between standardization and customization.
Data Source
AI summary
Camera and/or other sensor analysis of skin, used to diagnose and monitor health conditions. A computer, receiving skin data from a user, where the skin data is images and/or other data of the skin. The computer processes the skin data identify skin conditions, their status, and to compare the skin data with information indicative of health conditions that are not skin diseases. This can be done by finding similar skin data to other data received from other people who have specified health conditions and/or by looking for changes from previous images. The skin data can be captured by a smart phone camera (alone or with digital peripheral attachments) or a dedicated capture device such as a periscope, one way mirror, or cubicle. An augmented reality marking system can be used to mark areas on the user's skin to compare against other previous skin images and/or data.