Hair Damage Assessment via Interference Reflection Microscopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining hair damage are ineffective and uncomfortable for users, as they do not provide a reliable and user-friendly way to assess the extent of hair damage, which is crucial for selecting suitable cosmetic products.
Innovation Solution
A method using interference reflection microscopy to illuminate hair samples with light, analyzing the interference patterns to differentiate between regions of high and low light reflection, and determining the degree of damage based on these patterns, which can be done using portable devices like smartphones with microscope attachments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional hair damage assessment methods are used, then the assessment process is simple, but the reliability and precision of damage determination is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary substance to assess hair damage. Light interacts with the hair sample, and the reflected or transmitted light patterns reveal the structural integrity of the hair. This intermediary approach enables precise non-contact measurement of hair damage without requiring complex mechanical or chemical analysis systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or chemical hair analysis methods with optical measurement techniques. By using light reflection, transmission, or interference patterns, the system achieves precise damage assessment without physical contact or complex mechanical manipulation of the hair sample, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving precision.
2Ease of operation
If professional laboratory methods are used for hair damage assessment, then the measurement precision is high, but the ease of operation and user-friendliness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to perform hair damage assessment themselves without requiring professional laboratory equipment or expertise. The system is designed to be operated by ordinary users who can simply place their hair sample in the device, which then automatically performs the optical analysis and provides damage assessment results, making the process as easy as self-service.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy or model of the professional laboratory assessment process. Instead of requiring access to complex laboratory equipment, the invention replicates the essential measurement principles in a compact, user-friendly format that maintains measurement precision while eliminating the need for professional operation.
3Reliability
If current hair damage determination methods are used, then the process is quick, but the reliability of the assessment result is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs continuous optical measurement during the assessment process. Light continuously interacts with the hair sample, and the system continuously analyzes the optical signals to determine damage patterns. This continuous measurement approach ensures reliable results are obtained quickly, without requiring multiple discrete steps or repeated measurements that would increase assessment time.
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 method allows for a precise and user-friendly assessment of hair damage, enabling the recommendation of suitable hair care products based on the determined damage level, improving hair health and product selection.
Implementation Method 1
registering light which is radiated by the hair sample while a hair sample is illuminated with light; based on the registered light, determining first regions of the hair sample which reflect the light with higher interference, and second regions of the hair sample which reflect the light with lower interference
Data Source
AI summary
A method is described for determining a degree of damage to hair, which includes: registering light which is radiated by the hair sample while a hair sample is illuminated with light; based on the registered light, determining first regions of the hair sample which reflect the light with higher interference, and second regions of the hair sample which reflect the light with lower interference; and determining a degree of damage to the hair sample based on the extents of the first regions and of the second regions.