UV Eyewear and Face Shields for Hands-Free Fluorescence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting fluorescent substances, such as bodily fluids and biological materials, are hindered by the need for manual operation and the interference of visible light emission from UV sources, which can obscure the fluorescence.
Innovation Solution
The integration of UV lights into eyeglasses and face shields that are synchronized with the wearer's head movement, allowing hands-free detection of fluorescent substances through photoluminescence, with adjustable UV light orientation and optional magnification lenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If UV light is used to detect fluorescent substances, then detection capability is improved, but visible light interference obscures the fluorescence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful visible light component from the UV light source by using a UV filter or UV-LED that emits primarily UV radiation with minimal visible light. This allows the UV excitation function to be maintained while removing the interfering visible light that would otherwise obscure fluorescence detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different optical properties to different parts of the system: the UV light source is designed to emit specific wavelengths (UV range), while the detector or viewing system is optimized for UV sensitivity. This local optimization of optical qualities allows effective fluorescence detection while minimizing visible light interference.
2Measurement precision
If manual operation is used for detection, then control precision is maintained, but productivity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through hands-free operation where the UV light source and detector are integrated into eyewear or head-mounted devices that automatically follow the user's line of sight. The system serves itself by using the user's natural head movements and vision to guide the detection process without requiring manual positioning or operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional detection system that combines UV illumination, fluorescence detection, and heads-up display capabilities into a single integrated platform. This universal device can detect various fluorescent substances while providing real-time visual feedback through the eyewear, improving both productivity and ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If UV light intensity is increased to improve detection, then detection capability is enhanced, but visible light emission increases and obscures fluorescence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spectral parameters of the light source by using UV-LEDs or filtered UV lamps that emit at specific UV wavelengths (e.g., 365nm, 395nm) with minimal visible light content. This parameter optimization allows high UV intensity for excitation while maintaining low visible light emission that would interfere with fluorescence observation.
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 efficient, hands-free detection of fluorescent substances in various environments, enhancing visibility of traces like bodily fluids, bed bugs, lice, and fluorescent materials, while minimizing interference from visible light.
Implementation Method 1
The fluorophore converts the energy in the UV radiation from a UV light into visible light. Fluorescent substances can absorb UV light and re-emit it at a different wavelength in the visible spectrum.
Implementation Method 2
In the process of fluorescence photoluminescence, an electron gains energy by absorption of a photon of a certain wavelength, such as in the UV spectrum. The electron relaxes to a lower energy state through a series of non-radiative transitions (vibrational relaxation and internal conversion). Further relaxation to ground state by fluorescence results in emission of a photon of lower energy and longer wavelength (converting UV light to visible light) than the exciting photon.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention comprises eyeglasses in combination with a UV light (UV Glasses) for hands-free ease of detection of fluorescent substances. The present invention also comprises a face shield in combination with a UV light (UV Face Shield). The UV Glasses and UV Face Shield are generally headwear devices that use the head to support the devices. One or more UV lights can be fixedly coupled to the eyeglasses or face shield and so configured to be synchronous with the wearer's head movement along with the wearer's vision to the area where the wearer is looking. In another embodiment, the UV light can be movably, including rotatably, coupled relative to the wearer's head movement in various planes to enable the wearer to adjust the area illuminated by the UV lights.