Body Composition Profile for Phenotype Evaluation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods using BMI as a predictor for body fat distribution and metabolic risk are inadequate for individual-level assessments, failing to accurately evaluate phenotype variables related to health status and disease propensity.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the acquisition and combination of body composition parameter values such as visceral fat, subcutaneous fat, tissue compartment volumes, fat infiltration concentrations, and fat in bone marrow to create a body composition profile, which is then compared to stored profiles for evaluating phenotype variables like health state propensity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If BMI is used as a measurement, then the assessment is simple and quick, but the measurement precision of body fat distribution and metabolic risk is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments body fat assessment into multiple distinct components: visceral fat amount, subcutaneous fat amount, and fat infiltration concentration in tissues and organs. This segmentation allows precise measurement of different fat compartments that contribute differently to metabolic risk, resolving the contradiction by maintaining simplicity through structured measurement while achieving high precision through component-specific assessment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from the single-dimensional BMI assessment to a multi-dimensional body composition profile that includes volume, concentration, and distribution patterns of different fat compartments. This dimensional expansion enables comprehensive metabolic risk assessment while maintaining clinical utility through integrated profiling.
2Measurement precision
If multiple body composition parameters are measured, then the evaluation accuracy of phenotype variables is improved, but the device complexity and measurement complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal body composition profile framework that can assess multiple phenotype variables (visceral fat, subcutaneous fat, fat infiltration) using a single integrated measurement system. This multi-functional approach improves evaluation accuracy across different health parameters while avoiding the need for separate specialized devices for each measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary segmentation of body fat into distinct compartments (visceral, subcutaneous, infiltrated) with predefined measurement protocols. This preliminary structuring enables systematic data collection that improves accuracy while reducing the complexity of real-time decision-making during assessment.
3Measurement precision
If detailed body composition profiling is performed, then the distinction between different phenotypes is improved, but the loss of time for data acquisition and processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the body composition assessment into hierarchical levels: core parameters (visceral and subcutaneous fat amounts) that provide immediate phenotype differentiation, and detailed parameters (fat infiltration concentration in specific tissues) that refine the classification. This segmented approach enables rapid initial assessment while offering the option for detailed profiling when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a tiered measurement strategy where essential phenotype-distinguishing parameters are measured to achieve sufficient accuracy for clinical decision-making, rather than measuring all possible body composition parameters. This partial action approach maintains high phenotype distinction accuracy while reducing data acquisition time.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method (100) of providing a basis for an evaluation of an individual's propensity for a certain health state. The method comprises the steps of acquiring (102) at least two of the following parameter values of the individual's body out of the group: amount of visceral fat, amount of subcutaneous fat, volume of at least one tissue compartment, concentration of fat infiltrated in at least one tissue compartment, concentration of fat infiltrated in at least one organ, and concentration of fat in bone marrow; determining (104) a body composition profile, BCP, for the individual using said at least two acquired parameter values in combination, and comparing (106) the BCP for the individual with parameter values which are based on previously stored BCPs of other individuals.