Skin Imaging System with Multi-Wavelength Probes
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for capturing and analyzing skin conditions are limited, as they primarily rely on visible light photography and professional-grade equipment, failing to effectively visualize and measure non-visible skin issues, and do not provide consumers with accessible tools for informed skin care product decisions.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a camera, light sources with different filters, and probes for capturing images and measuring skin parameters, allowing users to take and view images under various lighting conditions (standard, polarized, ultraviolet, and blue fluorescence) and obtain skin data, which is then displayed and analyzed for suggesting appropriate skin care products.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If visible light photography is used, then the device is simple and easy to operate, but it cannot visualize non-visible skin issues such as subsurface features, pigmentation, and bacteria
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system incorporates multiple light sources (visible, UV, polarized) and filters that can be selectively activated, allowing a single device to perform multiple imaging functions. The system can switch between different imaging modes (standard photography, UV photography, polarized photography) to detect various skin conditions that are invisible under normal visible light, thereby providing universal detection capability while maintaining ease of operation.
2Measurement precision
If professional-grade skin testing equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and accessibility to consumers is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple professional-grade imaging and measurement functions (visible light photography, UV photography, polarized photography, and skin parameter measurement) into a single integrated device. By merging these functions that were previously available only through separate professional equipment, the system achieves comprehensive skin analysis capability while maintaining a unified, consumer-accessible platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replicates professional imaging capabilities (UV photography, polarized photography) in a consumer-friendly format. By copying the essential functions of professional equipment and adapting them for consumer use, the system provides accurate skin condition detection without requiring the complexity and size of full professional-grade instruments.
3Loss of information
If multiple imaging modes and measurement functions are integrated, then skin condition detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control of light sources and filters, where different imaging modes can be selectively activated based on the detection needs. The controller dynamically switches between visible light, UV, and polarized light sources, and adjusts filter configurations to optimize detection for specific skin conditions, thereby providing comprehensive detection capability while managing system complexity through intelligent control.
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 consumers to gain detailed insights into their skin conditions, facilitating more informed purchasing decisions and personalized product recommendations based on enhanced visualizations and measurements, promoting effective skin care.
Implementation Method 1
Polarized light photography has also been developed to selectively enhance either surface or subsurface features of the skin. These results are accomplished by placing a polarizing filter (typically a linear polarizing filter) both in front of the flash unit, and in front of the camera.
Implementation Method 2
Ultraviolet photography, where the flash unit is filtered to produce ultraviolet A light and the camera is filtered so that only visible light enters the lens, has been used to visually enhance the appearance of pigmentation, the bacteria p. acnes, and horns.
Implementation Method 3
Fluorescence spectroscopy is similarly useful for ascertaining the presence of tryptophan, collagen cross-links, elastin cross-links and keratin.
Data Source
AI summary
A skin testing and imaging station and corresponding method for capturing, displaying and analyzing images of a person and for testing the skin using a variety of probes includes a digital camera, a light source capable of providing at least two different wavelengths of light, a plurality of probes for conducting skin tests, a touch-screen display and a computer for controlling the components of the station. The apparatus selectively captures and displays a plurality of digital images using different wavelengths of illuminating light, e.g., using a plurality of flashes and filters, some of which may be adjustable to adjust the angle of incidence of the illuminating light on the subject. In video mode, the camera displays a real time image on the display facilitating a user to position a probe for testing any specific area of the skin. Preferably, the apparatus is self-serve, allowing any person to capture, review and analyze the images and skin data. Verbal and/or graphic instructions to a user aid in use of the station. An intuitive graphic user interface with thumbnail images is employed. Focus control, zoom and synchronized side-by side comparison of images are available.