Multispectral Imaging Apparatus for Skin Lesion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting skin cancer, such as melanoma and basal cell carcinoma, lack effective early detection techniques, especially in areas not exposed to UV radiation, and existing imaging technologies struggle to differentiate between benign and malignant tissues accurately.
Innovation Solution
A multispectral imaging apparatus utilizing a processor-controlled system with visible and short-wavelength infrared light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and cameras to capture images at various wavelengths, optimizing the source cone angle for maximum illumination and minimizing specular reflection, enabling high-resolution imaging of skin lesions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging technologies are used for skin cancer detection, then the imaging process is simple, but the ability to differentiate between benign and malignant tissues is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple independent LED modules, each emitting at a specific wavelength (e.g., 450nm, 530nm, 630nm, 850nm, 1300nm, 1550nm). This segmentation allows the system to capture tissue reflectance across multiple spectral bands, improving tissue differentiation accuracy while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from conventional single-wavelength imaging to multispectral imaging by adding the spectral dimension. By capturing images at multiple wavelengths and analyzing reflectance patterns across the spectrum, the system achieves superior tissue characterization and differentiation capability beyond what single-wavelength imaging can provide
2Measurement precision
If standard illumination angles are used, then the setup is simple, but specular reflection interferes with image quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs an asymmetric illumination geometry where LEDs are positioned at specific non-standard angles relative to the skin surface. This asymmetric arrangement optimizes the balance between achieving sufficient tissue penetration and minimizing specular reflection, thereby improving image quality without requiring complex symmetric mechanical structures
Solution Approach 2:
Different LED modules are positioned at different local angles and orientations tailored to their specific wavelength characteristics and the optical properties of tissue at those wavelengths. This localized optimization of illumination angles allows each wavelength to achieve optimal penetration and reflection characteristics, improving overall image quality while avoiding uniform complex mechanical designs
3Reliability
If single-wavelength imaging is used, then the device is simple, but early detection of skin lesions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple independent LED modules, each emitting at a specific wavelength (e.g., 450nm, 530nm, 630nm, 850nm, 1300nm, 1550nm). This segmentation allows the system to capture tissue reflectance across multiple spectral bands, improving tissue differentiation accuracy while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multiple wavelengths as intermediaries to probe different tissue depths and characteristics. By analyzing reflectance patterns across the spectral range, the system extracts subtle differences in tissue composition and structure that indicate early-stage skin lesions, enhancing detection reliability
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 system effectively differentiates between benign and malignant skin tissues by analyzing tissue texture, granularity, and asymmetry, improving early detection and identification of skin lesions like melanoma and basal cell carcinoma, even in areas not exposed to UV radiation.
Implementation Method 1
one or more first sets of LEDs has a wavelength in a visible range, and one or more second sets of LEDs has a wavelength in a short wavelength infrared range (SWIR)
Implementation Method 2
light reflected off of the surface is received
Data Source
AI summary
A multispectral imaging apparatus includes a processor and a plurality of sets of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in communication with the processor. One or more first sets of LEDs has a wavelength in a visible range, and one or more second sets of LEDs has a wavelength in a short wavelength infrared range. The apparatus includes a truncated source cone through which light from the plurality of sets of LEDs is directed onto a surface and through which light reflected off of the surface is received. The apparatus also includes a visible light camera configured to capture a first image of the surface based on reflected light that originates from the one or more first sets of LEDS. The apparatus further includes an infrared light camera and configured to capture a second image of the surface based on reflected light that originates from the one or more second sets of LEDs.