Skin State Estimation via Nasal Feature Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for predicting future skin states, such as those using ultrasonic diagnostic devices, are not easily accessible or practical for general skin care applications.

Innovation Solution

A method that estimates skin state by identifying nasal features using a smartphone or similar device with camera functionality, employing image processing and machine learning to correlate nasal features with skin states, allowing for the prediction of future skin issues.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If ultrasonic diagnostic device is used to predict skin state, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveskin state prediction accuracyVSAvoidultrasonic diagnostic device

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses optical imaging (camera photographs) as a substitute for ultrasonic imaging. Instead of requiring complex ultrasonic diagnostic equipment, the system captures optical images of the nasal region and extracts features from these copies/representations to predict skin state, thereby achieving similar functionality with simpler devices

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical ultrasonic diagnostic system with an optical system. By substituting ultrasonic waves with light-based camera imaging and using computer vision algorithms for analysis, the system achieves skin state prediction without requiring complex mechanical ultrasonic equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If ultrasonic diagnostic device is used to predict skin state, then skin state prediction accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveskin state prediction accuracyVSAvoidaccessibility for general users

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables users to perform skin state prediction themselves using their own smartphone cameras. Users simply photograph their nasal region and the system automatically processes the images to provide skin state predictions, eliminating the need for professional ultrasonic diagnostic equipment and trained operators

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent leverages the ubiquity of smartphone cameras as a multi-functional device that can serve both general photography purposes and specialized skin state prediction. This universal tool approach makes the technology accessible to everyone without requiring specialized medical equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20240074694A1Skin state estimation method, device, program, system, trained model generation method, and trained model

Publication Date: 2024.03.07 SHISEIDO CO LTD

AI summary

A skin state is readily obtained. A method according to one embodiment of the present invention includes identifying a nasal feature of a user; and estimating a skin state of the user based on the nasal feature of the user.