Tissue Indentation Measurement for Reliable Skin Lesion Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for analyzing biological tissues, particularly skin lesions, are limited by the need for practitioner experience, variability in tissue biomechanics, and the sensitivity and specificity of advanced technologies, which are not user-friendly and require training.
Innovation Solution
A measuring device that includes a support surface, an indenter for tissue deformation, a strain gauge to measure resistance force, and a position sensor to determine indentation depth, allowing for the measurement of tissue stiffness and lesion characterization through a computer-implemented analysis process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical scanners or impedance measurement equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical scanners and impedance measurement equipment with a simple mechanical indenter system. The indenter applies controlled force to the tissue, and strain gauges mounted on the indenter directly measure the mechanical response. This mechanical approach substitutes for sophisticated optical and electrical measurement systems, achieving accurate tissue characterization through straightforward force application and measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive strain gauge sensors that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than investing in expensive, complex optical or impedance measurement equipment. The simple mechanical indenter with strain gauges provides a cost-effective alternative to high-end imaging systems, making the device more accessible and easier to maintain.
2Measurement precision
If optical scanners or impedance measurement equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to training requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex optical scanners and impedance measurement equipment with a simple mechanical indenter system. The indenter applies controlled force to the tissue, and strain gauges mounted on the indenter directly measure the mechanical response. This mechanical approach substitutes for sophisticated optical and electrical measurement systems, achieving accurate tissue characterization through straightforward force application and measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs automated measurements and analysis without requiring expert intervention. The system automatically applies force through the indenter, captures strain gauge data, processes the signals, and generates tissue characterization results. This automation eliminates the need for trained practitioners to interpret complex optical or impedance data, making the device easy to operate for anyone.
3Reliability
If practitioner experience is used to improve analysis, then sensitivity and specificity are improved, but reliability deteriorates due to variability in tissue biomechanics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent measures multiple parameters during the indentation process, including force, displacement, and derived mechanical properties like stiffness and elasticity. By capturing a comprehensive set of mechanical parameters rather than relying on single measurements or expert judgment, the system adapts to different tissue types and biomechanical characteristics. The system processes these parameters through algorithms that account for tissue variability, providing reliable results across different skin types and conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from strain gauges during the indentation process to adjust measurements and analyze tissue response. The feedback mechanism captures the dynamic mechanical behavior of the tissue as it deforms and recovers, allowing the system to adapt to individual tissue characteristics. This feedback-driven approach eliminates the need for practitioner experience while maintaining high reliability across diverse tissue types.
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 reliable discrimination between different types of skin lesions by standardizing measurements independent of tissue biomechanical characteristics, mimicking expert palpation and observation, and facilitating user-friendly, accurate tissue analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a strain gauge configured to measure a resistance force of the tissue to the deformation caused by the indenter
Implementation Method 2
an indenter configured to cause deformation of the tissue, the indenter being configured to be movable relative to the support surface between an original position and an indentation position in which the tissue is deformed by the indenter
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4(C)
Figure 5(A)~6(B)
AI summary
The invention relates to a measuring device intended for being placed in contact with a tissue and a method for analysing the measured tissue data. The invention relates to a measuring device (D) intended for being placed in contact with a tissue (T), and comprising an indenter (1) configured to cause a deformation of the tissue (T), a strain gauge (3) configured to measure a force of resistance of the tissue (T) to the deformation caused by the indenter (1); and a position sensor (5) configured to measure an indentation depth representative of a movement of the indenter (1). The invention also relates to a method for analysing tissue data relating to a tissue (T), the method being implemented by computer and comprising a step of associating (A1) a measurement of the indentation depth and a measurement of the force of resistance to the deformation corresponding to the indentation depth.