Integrated Optical Module for Wearable Bio-Signal Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional image sensors for analyzing bio-signals are not suitable for wearable devices due to their large size and require continuous reference measurements, making continuous bio-signal monitoring difficult, especially when skin inhomogeneity affects measurement results.
Innovation Solution
An image sensor with a network structure of optical modules, including a light source, first and second detectors, and a processor that calculates scattering and absorption coefficients to analyze object components, allowing for continuous monitoring without the need for continuous reference measurements by emitting light from multiple surfaces and controlling light intensity and patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a general measurement system using an image sensor based on spatial frequency domain imaging is used, then measurement capability is provided, but the device size becomes large and is not suitable for wearable devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light source, first detector, and second detector into a single integrated optical module that can be mounted on a substrate. This merging of components enables the system to maintain absorbance measurement capability while significantly reducing the overall device size, making it suitable for wearable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is segmented into distinct functional units: a light source for emitting light, a first detector for detecting scattered/reflected light from the object, and a second detector for detecting light not incident on the object. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates miniaturization while maintaining measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If a reference is measured every time absorbance is measured to ensure accuracy, then measurement accuracy is improved, but continuous monitoring becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the second detector to measure a reference signal that is emitted by the light source but does not incident on the object. This self-service reference measurement allows the system to compensate for light source drift and environmental changes without requiring external reference samples, enabling continuous accurate monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
By continuously measuring both the sample signal (through the first detector) and the reference signal (through the second detector), the system maintains continuous accurate absorbance monitoring. The reference measurement is performed continuously alongside the sample measurement, eliminating the need for intermittent reference calibration.
3Measurement precision
If two-dimensional measurement is performed to reduce measurement error caused by skin inhomogeneity, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new measurement dimension by using multiple detectors (first detector for scattered light, second detector for reference light) and multiple light patterns. This dimensional expansion allows the system to capture information about skin inhomogeneity and compensate for measurement errors without increasing spatial complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes measurement parameters by varying light patterns (spatial frequency, phase) and using multiple detection channels. This parameter variation enables the system to distinguish between true absorbance signals and artifacts caused by skin inhomogeneity, improving accuracy without requiring complex two-dimensional spatial mapping.
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 accurate and continuous analysis of bio-signals by reducing measurement errors caused by skin inhomogeneity and allowing for the monitoring of components like triglycerides, blood glucose, and chromophores in wearable devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first detector configured to detect a first light that is scattered or reflected from the object on which the emitted source light is incident
Implementation Method 2
a first detector configured to detect a first light that is scattered or reflected from the object on which the emitted source light is incident
Implementation Method 3
calculate a scattering coefficient and an absorption coefficient, based on the detected first light and the detected second light, and analyze the component of the object
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus for analyzing a component of an object are provided. The apparatus includes an image sensor including an optical module, and the optical module includes a light source configured to emit a source light, a first detector configured to detect a first light that is scattered or reflected from the object on which the emitted source light is incident, and a second detector configured to detect a second light that is emitted by the light source but is not incident on the object. The apparatus further includes a processor configured to calculate a scattering coefficient and an absorption coefficient, based on the detected first light and the detected second light, and analyze the component of the object, based on the calculated scattering coefficient and the calculated absorption coefficient.