UAV Skin Imaging Control Points for Reproducible Clinical Photography
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional imaging and treatment systems for skin conditions, such as skin cancer, are resource-intensive, prone to errors, and struggle with consistency due to variations in lighting and patient positioning, making it difficult to acquire high-quality and reproducible images for diagnosis and treatment.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a digital camera, light source, and GPS receivers, which navigates to predetermined photography control points to capture high-resolution images and administer photodynamic therapy with precision, ensuring consistent illumination and image quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional imaging systems use multiple cameras positioned to surround a patient, then image coverage is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging task is segmented into multiple sequential captures from different angles, with the single camera moving to predetermined positions around the patient to capture different body segments, replacing the need for multiple simultaneous cameras
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static multi-camera spatial arrangement to a dynamic single-camera system that moves through three-dimensional space, adding the dimension of temporal movement to achieve complete body coverage
2Device complexity
If manual positioning of cameras is used, then system cost is reduced, but measurement precision and reproducibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the controller receives data from GPS receivers and sensors to determine the platform's location and orientation, automatically adjusting positioning to achieve consistent imaging geometry
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical positioning is replaced with automated electronic control systems that use GPS, sensors, and computer algorithms to precisely control camera position and orientation, ensuring reproducible imaging conditions
3Reliability
If numerous cameras are used to capture all body areas, then diagnostic completeness is improved, but resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single camera system performs multiple functions by sequentially capturing different body regions and angles, replacing the need for numerous dedicated cameras for different body parts
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically navigates and captures images without requiring multiple operators or complex manual coordination, with the controller autonomously managing the imaging sequence and platform positioning
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 UAV system enables the acquisition of high-quality, reproducible images and precise photodynamic therapy delivery, improving diagnostic accuracy and treatment consistency over time.
Implementation Method 1
a light source mounted to the drone body
Implementation Method 2
a laser sensor mounted to the drone body
Data Source
AI summary
A method for photographing at least a portion of a subject is disclosed, the method comprising: generating a photography scheme, the photography scheme comprising a set of photography control points, each of the photography control points comprising: a location of the platform relative to the subject; an orientation of the platform relative to the subject; and one or more photography parameters; determining a location and an orientation of the platform carrying the imaging system; navigating the platform to each of the photography control points and operating the imaging system to capture an image of the subject at each of the photography control points according to the associated photography parameters. A method of administering photodynamic therapy to a subject is also disclosed.