Optical Waveguide Skinprint Analysis for Volume Quantification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the volume of a skinprint are not accurate, cost-effective, and not suitable for robust in-the-field measurements, particularly for quantifying analytes in skinprints.
Innovation Solution
A method using an apparatus with a primary electromagnetic radiation source and a translucent waveguide to transmit and reflect radiation based on the presence of a skinprint, coupled with electromagnetic radiation detection and calibration data to determine skinprint volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing methods for determining skinprint volume are used, then the analysis can be performed, but the accuracy is insufficient and cost-effectiveness is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or chemical measurement systems with an optical measurement system. A light source and detector are used to measure skinprint volume through optical transmission, which is simpler, more accurate, and cost-effective compared to existing mechanical or chemical methods for volume determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct physical contact or chemical analysis to optical transmission properties. By measuring light transmission through the skinprint, the system achieves accurate volume determination without the complexity and cost of existing methods.
2Reliability
If existing methods are used for skinprint analysis, then measurement can be performed, but they are not suitable for robust in-the-field measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with a portable optical system that can be deployed in the field. The light transmission method requires minimal infrastructure and can be performed robustly in various field conditions without requiring controlled laboratory environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be self-contained and portable, enabling independent operation in the field without requiring external support systems. The optical measurement device can be deployed autonomously for skinprint analysis in various field scenarios.
3Measurement precision
If skinprint volume is not accurately determined, then analysis can still proceed, but concentration determination of analytes cannot be accurately achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical measurement to determine skinprint volume, which provides accurate data for analyte concentration calculations without requiring complex measurement systems. The light transmission method gives precise volume information that enables accurate concentration determination while keeping the system simple.
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
Provides an accurate and cost-effective means to determine skinprint volume, facilitating high-throughput analysis and enabling concentration determination of analytes in skinprints.
Implementation Method 1
where the waveguide interface interfaces directly with ambient, the primary electromagnetic radiation incident on the waveguide interface reflects in the waveguide interface at an angle of reflection relative to and on a second side of the normal line opposite the first side
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A method of determining volume of a deposited skinprint uses an apparatus comprising: a primary electromagnetic radiation source; an electromagnetic radiation detector; and a translucent waveguide comprising a first surface providing a waveguide interface coincident with a skinprint receiving region. The method comprises transmitting primary electromagnetic radiation from the primary electromagnetic radiation source towards the waveguide interface at an angle of incidence relative to and on a first side of a normal line that is perpendicular to the waveguide interface, such that: (a) where the waveguide interface interfaces directly with ambient, the primary electromagnetic radiation incident on the waveguide interface reflects in the waveguide interface at an angle of reflection relative to and on a second side of the normal line opposite the first side; and (b) where a deposited skinprint is present on the skinprint receiving region such that the waveguide interface interfaces with the skinprint and the skinprint interfaces with ambient, at least a portion of the primary electromagnetic radiation incident on the waveguide interface is caused by the skinprint to be transmitted through the waveguide interface. The method further comprises using the electromagnetic radiation detector to determine a primary output value being an amount of primary electromagnetic radiation transmitted through the waveguide interface and/or reflected by the waveguide interface. The method also comprises: using calibration data that provides correspondence between the primary output value and the volume of skinprint on the substrate so as to provide a value for the volume of the deposited skinprint.