Eyewear UV Exposure Tracking via Sensor Fusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UV radiation-measuring and warning solutions for eyewear are unable to accurately monitor UV radiation levels when not directly exposed to solar rays, and they are not optimally convenient for use during vigorous physical activities.
Innovation Solution
The eyewear incorporates at least one first sensor, such as an ultraviolet light sensor (UVS) or a photopic ambient light sensor (ALS), attached to its frame, along with a controller that receives light level values, provides a timeline, calculates the probability of outdoor exposure, and provides this information to the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional UV radiation-measuring solutions are used, then UV radiation levels can be monitored, but they are unable to accurately monitor UV radiation when not directly exposed to solar rays (e.g., in shade or through windows)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring task into multiple sensor types: UV sensors for direct UV detection, visible light sensors for ambient light detection, and temperature sensors for environmental context. Each sensor segment handles specific aspects of exposure detection, allowing the system to accurately determine outdoor exposure probability even in complex environments like shade or near windows.
Solution Approach 2:
The eyewear device integrates multiple sensing functions (UV detection, visible light detection, temperature sensing) into a single universal platform. This multi-functional approach enables the device to operate effectively across diverse environments - whether in direct sunlight, partial shade, or near windows - by combining data from all sensors to calculate overall outdoor exposure probability.
2Measurement precision
If conventional UV radiation-measuring solutions are attached to clothing, then UV exposure can be monitored, but they restrict movement during vigorous physical activity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the UV monitoring function with eyewear, a device already worn on the head/face during physical activities. By integrating sensors into the eyewear frame rather than attaching separate monitors to clothing, the system maintains continuous exposure tracking while allowing full range of motion during vigorous activities like volleyball or running.
Solution Approach 2:
The eyewear leverages its position on the user's face - the most exposed body part to sunlight - to automatically monitor UV exposure without requiring additional attachments or user intervention. The device serves itself by utilizing the natural exposure of the facial area to accurately track outdoor exposure probability.
3Device complexity
If prior art solutions assume fixed UV radiation tolerance thresholds, then simple monitoring can be implemented, but they fail to account for intensity of incident radiation variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts exposure thresholds based on multiple varying parameters: UV radiation intensity, visible light levels, and temperature. Instead of using fixed thresholds, the system calculates probability-based exposure limits that adapt to current environmental conditions, accounting for variations in solar intensity, time of day, and weather conditions to provide more accurate safety guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors environmental parameters (UV levels, visible light, temperature) and provides real-time feedback to the user about their outdoor exposure probability. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adjust its monitoring and alert thresholds dynamically based on accumulated exposure data and current conditions, improving accuracy while maintaining manageable system complexity.
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
This solution allows for accurate and reliable monitoring and management of user exposure to UV radiation, enabling users to maintain a healthy lifestyle by avoiding excessive or insufficient outdoor exposure.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first sensor attached to a frame of the eyewear and wherein the first sensor is selected from at least one of: ultraviolet light sensor (UVS)
Implementation Method 2
photopic ambient light sensor (ALS)
Data Source
AI summary
An eyewear and a method for determining user exposure wherein the eyewear includes at least one first sensor attached to a frame of the eyewear and wherein the first sensor is selected from at least one of: ultraviolet light sensor (UVS), photopic ambient light sensor (ALS), and a controller configured to receive values for a photopic light level and an ultraviolet light level from the at least one first sensor, provide a timeline for the received values of the photopic light level and the ultraviolet light level, calculate from the timeline, the photopic light level, and the ultraviolet light level, a probability of time duration the eyewear has been exposed to outdoor environment, and provide the calculated probability of time duration for a user of the eyewear.