Head-Mounted Thermal Camera for Allergic Reaction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collecting thermal measurements of the human face, particularly for detecting allergic reactions, is challenging due to the need for bulky and expensive thermal cameras that struggle with user movements, requiring complex image analysis and registration processes.
Innovation Solution
The use of head-mounted thermal cameras physically coupled to a frame, allowing for continuous and accurate measurement of facial temperatures while the user performs daily activities, with models employing thresholds, time series, or machine learning to detect allergic reactions based on unique thermal patterns specific to each individual.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If thermal cameras are used to collect facial temperature data, then measurement capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase due to bulkiness and need for complex image analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical thermal imaging systems with a simplified sensor-based approach. Instead of using bulky thermal cameras that require complex image analysis and registration, the invention uses temperature sensors (such as thermistors or thermocouples) that directly contact or closely approach the nose to measure temperature. This substitution of mechanical/optical systems with simpler electronic sensors resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement capability while dramatically reducing device complexity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If thermal cameras are used to monitor facial temperatures during daily activities, then continuous monitoring is possible, but reliability decreases due to user movements and positioning difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-adjusting positioning system where the sensor is mounted on a movable structure (such as a flexible arm or adjustable mount) that automatically positions itself to maintain optimal contact with the nose. The system includes feedback mechanisms that detect positioning errors and make real-time adjustments, allowing continuous monitoring during daily activities without requiring manual repositioning. This self-service approach maintains measurement reliability while enabling long-duration continuous monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic positioning mechanisms that allow the sensor to move and adapt to user movements. The mounting structure includes flexible elements, adjustable joints, or active positioning motors that enable the sensor to track the nose's position changes during head movements. This dynamic adaptation ensures continuous reliable contact and measurement throughout daily activities, resolving the contradiction between monitoring duration and reliability.
3Measurement precision
If standard thermal cameras are used, then temperature measurement is achieved, but ease of operation worsens due to need for complex image analysis and registration procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical image analysis systems with direct electronic temperature sensing. Instead of capturing thermal images and performing sophisticated image processing, registration, and analysis, the invention uses temperature sensors that directly convert thermal energy into electrical signals. This substitution eliminates the need for complex image analysis procedures, dramatically simplifying operation while maintaining accurate temperature measurement capability.
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
Enables efficient and accurate collection of thermal data from the face, improving the detection of allergic reactions by accounting for individual physiological variations and movement, providing early alerts for potential allergic responses.
Implementation Method 1
an inward-facing head-mounted thermal camera worn on the user's head that takes thermal measurements of a region on the nose (THN)
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and methods for personalized detection of an allergic reaction of a user. In one embodiment, a system includes an inward-facing head-mounted thermal camera (CAM) and a computer. CAM takes thermal measurements of a region on the nose (THN) of a user. The computer generates feature values based on THN and utilizes a model to detect an allergic reaction of the user based on the feature values. The model is trained based on previous THN of the user taken during different days. Some embodiments may utilize additional thermal cameras that take thermal measurements of other regions on the face, which may be utilized by the computer to generate additional feature values that are used to detect the allergic reaction. In some cases, detection of the allergic reaction may occur following a rise in nasal temperature, even before the user becomes aware of the allergic reaction.