UV Topical Product Irradiation for Vitamin D Without Skin Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a critical need for a safe and effective method to synthesize vitamin D without the risks associated with UV light exposure or synthetic supplementation, as widespread vitamin D deficiency has emerged due to reduced sunlight exposure and the limitations of existing supplementation methods.
Innovation Solution
An ultraviolet light emitting device is used to irradiate a topical product containing sterols, converting them to previtamin D, which then converts to vitamin D at body temperature, utilizing a housing with a UV light source and safety mechanisms to prevent accidental exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If UV light is used to synthesize vitamin D in skin, then vitamin D production is enabled, but skin damage and cancer risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vitamin D synthesis function from the harmful UV light exposure context. By applying UV light to a topical product containing 7-dehydrocholesterol in a controlled device setting, the beneficial previtamin D3 is generated in the product itself, which then transfers to the skin without requiring direct UV exposure to the skin, thus separating the synthesis function from the harmful effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The topical product acts as an intermediary medium. It contains 7-dehydrocholesterol that converts to previtamin D3 when exposed to UV light in the device, and this previtamin D3 then transfers to the skin. This intermediary approach allows vitamin D synthesis to occur without direct UV light contact with the skin, reducing harmful effects while maintaining benefits.
2Quantity of substance
If oral supplementation with synthetic vitamin D is used, then vitamin D levels are increased, but toxicity and hypercalcaemia risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables the user's own skin to produce vitamin D through a controlled process. By applying the topical product containing 7-dehydrocholesterol and using the device to convert it to previtamin D3, the body's natural vitamin D synthesis pathway is utilized, allowing self-regulation and avoiding the toxicity risks associated with synthetic supplementation.
3Quantity of substance
If direct sunlight exposure is increased for vitamin D synthesis, then vitamin D production improves, but DNA damage and ageing rate increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vitamin D synthesis capability from the context of uncontrolled sunlight exposure. By using artificial UV light in a controlled device to convert 7-dehydrocholesterol in a topical product to previtamin D3, the beneficial synthesis occurs without the harmful DNA damage and ageing effects associated with direct sunlight exposure.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If previtamin D3 is stabilized at room temperature for commercial shelf life, then product viability improves, but natural isomerization to vitamin D3 is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs the isomerization action in advance by converting 7-dehydrocholesterol to previtamin D3 within the topical product during a controlled treatment period. The product is then applied to the skin where body temperature completes the conversion to vitamin D3. This preliminary conversion in the product allows for stable storage before use.
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
This method allows for vitamin D synthesis indoors without harmful UV exposure, reducing the risks of skin damage and toxicity, and effectively increasing systemic vitamin D levels.
Implementation Method 1
irradiation of the topical product by the ultraviolet light source to operatively convert a sterol in the topical product to an intermediate of vitamin D
Implementation Method 2
irradiation of the topical product by the ultraviolet light source to operatively convert a precursor 5,7-dehydrosterol in the topical product to an intermediate of vitamin D
Implementation Method 3
a housing, a recess defined by the housing and configured to receive the topical product, and an ultraviolet light source capable of irradiating the topical product within an irradiation zone of the recess
Data Source
AI summary
An ultraviolet light emitting device for irradiating a topical product. The device may include a housing, a recess defined by the housing. The recess may be configured to receive the topical product. An ultraviolet light source may be capable of irradiating the topical product within an irradiation zone of the recess. The light source and irradiation zone are substantially opposite one another so as to enable irradiation of the topical product by the ultraviolet light source to operatively convert a sterol in the topical product to an intermediate of vitamin D.