Multi-layer UV Dosimeter with Sunscreen-Absorbing Over-Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UV dosimeter devices are vulnerable to corrosion when exposed to sunscreen components like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which can prevent UV radiation from interacting with photochromic materials and hinder color change, necessitating a solution that protects the matrix while allowing sunscreen absorption.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer dosimeter device with a top layer that absorbs sunscreen without penetrating through to the photochromic layer, using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for the top and bottom layers to mimic skin texture and prevent corrosion, and a colorant layer with photochromic materials that can change color in response to UV radiation, potentially including components to inhibit color reversal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-layer dosimeter is used, then the device is simple in structure, but it is vulnerable to corrosion from sunscreen components
Solution Approach 1:
The dosimeter is divided into multiple functional layers: a top layer that absorbs sunscreen without penetrating to the photochromic layer, a middle layer containing photochromic materials for UV detection, and a bottom layer providing structural support. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while protecting the photochromic materials from corrosion.
Solution Approach 2:
The top layer acts as an intermediary between the sunscreen and the photochromic materials. It absorbs the sunscreen components (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) preventing them from reaching and corroding the photochromic layer, while still allowing UV radiation to pass through for detection.
2Reliability
If the top layer absorbs sunscreen, then corrosion is prevented, but UV radiation interaction with photochromic materials may be blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The top layer is designed with specific properties: it is opaque to visible light (preventing corrosion) but transparent to UV radiation (allowing detection). This local quality differentiation enables the layer to simultaneously protect the photochromic materials while permitting UV interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The material composition and optical properties of the top layer are carefully selected to change the transmission characteristics at different wavelengths. The layer absorbs sunscreen components while maintaining UV transparency, achieving both protection and detection functionality.
3Measurement precision
If photochromic materials are used without protection, then UV detection is enabled, but sunscreen components cause corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful sunscreen components (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) are extracted and isolated in the top layer, separating them from the photochromic materials in the middle layer. This extraction prevents the corrosion interaction while maintaining UV detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The top layer serves as a protective barrier that absorbs sunscreen components before they can reach and corrode the photochromic materials. This beforehand protection ensures the longevity and reliability of the UV detection function.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively monitors UV radiation exposure even when sunscreen is applied, providing accurate color change without sunscreen-induced corrosion, ensuring reliable UV detection and comfort for wear on the skin or clothing.
Implementation Method 1
photochromic materials that change color when exposed to UV radiation
Implementation Method 2
an over-layer... comprising a material that is constructed and arranged to allow at least a portion of the sunscreen, when deposited on the top surface of the over-layer, to be absorbed by the over-layer
Implementation Method 3
preventing the sunscreen so deposited from penetrating through the over-layer to the colorant layer
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring or detecting UV radiation that is usable with sunscreen, the device including:(a) a colorant layer having at least one photochromic material that is capable of changing its color when exposed to UV radiation, and(b) an over-layer atop the colorant layer having (i) a bottom surface that is in contact with a top surface of the colorant layer and (ii) an opposing top surface, the over-layer having a material that is constructed and arranged to allow at least a portion of the sunscreen, when deposited on the top surface of the over-layer, to be absorbed by the over-layer while preventing the sunscreen so deposited from penetrating through the over-layer to the colorant layer, the over-layer being transparent to allow UV radiation to pass through the over-layer to the colorant layer at least when the surface of the over-layer is not covered with the sunscreen. Also, methods for preparing and using the device.