JP2005230522A - Device and method for biophotonic feedback controlling - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a process, a device, and a method for on-line control and database collection, and system control for detecting, tracking, and feedback control by a computer. <P>SOLUTION: A system 60 tests nutrients by Raman scattering effect on the skin or other tissues to obtain the content of carottnoid or other nutrients contained in the skin. The blood concentration of nutrients widely varies as time elapsed, but the skin tissue averages such nutrients across the time. By scanning the skin and other tissue by light, carotenoid or other nutrients accumulated in the skin are correctly measured by Raman scattering effect of the nutrients in the skin. A score is produced from an accurately calibrated biophotonic scanner to enable the score to reflect average effective intake of detected nutrients (for instance, such as carotenoid). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a digital computer and an optical scanner, and more particularly to a novel apparatus and method for detecting, tracking, and feedback-controlling ingestion by a target organism by a computer in a timely manner.

  Electronic device systems and optical measurement systems have a wide range and various forms. The system is for optical detection based on radar signatures, infrared signatures, and other spectral signatures in the radio frequency range.

  In the field of optics and detectors, US Pat. No. 6,205,354 issued to Gellerman et al., Issued March 20, 2001, describes carotenoids and related chemicals and biological tissues non-invasively. Describes a measuring method and apparatus (Patent Document 1). Such patents are hereby incorporated by reference into the present disclosure. The method and apparatus by Gererman et al. Allows non-invasive, fast, accurate, and safe determination of carotenoid concentrations, the risk of disease, or the concentration of carotenoids or other antioxidant compounds in the body. Diagnostic information regarding markers that exhibit such symptoms can be provided. Resonance Raman spectroscopy and resonance Raman spectroscopy equipment can be used to measure the concentration of carotenoids and similar substances in tissues.

The laser light is directed to the tissue of interest. Only a portion of the scattered light is scattered inelastically, producing a carotenoid Raman signal with a different frequency than the incident laser light. The Raman signal is collected, filtered and measured. The resulting Raman signal is analyzed to remove the background fluorescence signal, the result is displayed and further compared to a known calibration standard.
US Pat. No. 6,205,354

  Processes, apparatus, and methods are provided for online control and database collection and management of systems for computer detection, tracking and feedback control.

  The system and method according to the present invention provides a system for controlling and communicating between various computer systems. The system includes a laser irradiation and detection system controller and a computer that processes the detector signals. The system collects data, eliminates errors, compensates for background noise, fits data to curves, reports data, and manages a database of data.

  A computer can be programmed to control the laser scanner and detection system, and the software can be used to control instructions to and from the operator to minimize the level of proficiency required of the operator . That is, many devices are constructed with high precision so that those skilled in the art to which the present invention is highly skilled can use. Also, many devices that are quite complex and therefore require a high level of skill and knowledge in terms of both science and hardware to operate can be operated with very rudimentary control. In the method and apparatus according to the present invention, a user interface incorporated in a computer connected to a laser scanner can be easily operated by a non-specialized operator without skill.

  Therefore, the scanner collects data supplied to the master or host computer, processes the data, and determines the intensity of the Raman scattering response of the subject's skin as a result of irradiating laser light in a specific spectral band. Accordingly, the computer processes the data and provides a display to the user or operator regarding the subject's skin contents. For example, the carotenoid concentration can be determined directly or relatively determined as a score that can be compared with previous scan results and subsequent scan results.

  The master computer records the data and uploads the data to the central computer. For example, through a direct link or a world wide web link, the master computer uploads data obtained in one or more scan cycles to the central computer. Thus, many subjects can be tracked over time and recorded in a database. The central computer device can track subjects, operators, nutritional supplement salespersons, organizations, entities, and individuals.

  The following detailed description of embodiments of the system and method according to the present invention shown in the drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but is an example of presently contemplated embodiments according to the present invention. It is just a representation. The same components are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the figures.

Since the drawings depict only exemplary embodiments according to the present invention, these drawings should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention.
Many of the functional units described herein are referred to as modules, executables, systems, servers, etc., and particularly emphasize the uniqueness of the embodiments of these units. For example, a module can be incorporated into software to allow various types of processors to execute. Modules identified by executable code include, for example, one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which are configured as objects, procedures, or functions, for example. In any case, the executable files for the identified modules do not need to be physically co-located, but can contain heterogeneous instructions stored in different locations, and when these instructions are logically combined, the modules To achieve the purpose of the module. For example, a module of executable code can be a single instruction or many instructions, and can be distributed across a number of different code segments, different programs, and a number of memory devices.

  Modules can also be incorporated into hardware as electronic circuits, where the electronic circuits include custom VLSI circuits and commercially available semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors or other discrete elements. A module can also be incorporated into a programmable hardware device such as a field programmable gate array, a programmable array logic, or a programmable logic device.

  Similarly, operational data can be identified and shown herein in modules and can be embodied in any suitable form and organized in any suitable type of data structure. Operational data can be collected as a single data set or distributed across different locations, including different storage devices, and at least partly simply captured as electronic signals in a system or network .

  Referring to FIG. 1, an apparatus 10 executes the present invention on one or more nodes 11 (clients 11, computers 11) that include a processor 12 (CPU 12). All the components are included in a single node 11 or included in a plurality of nodes 11 and 52 separated from each other. CPU 12 is operatively connected to memory device 14. The memory device 14 includes a hard drive or other non-volatile storage 16, a read only memory 18 (ROM 18), and a random access (and usually volatile) memory 20 (RAM 20, operational memory 20). ) Including one or more devices.

  Apparatus 10 includes an input device 22 that receives input from a user or from another device. Similarly, output device 24 may be provided in node 11 or accessed within apparatus 10. A network card 26 (interface card) or port 28 is provided to connect to an external device such as the network 30.

  Internally, a bus 32 or a plurality of buses 32 operatively connect the processor 12, memory device 14, input device 22, output device 24, network card 26 and port 28 to one another. Bus 32 can be considered a data carrier. Accordingly, the bus 32 can be embodied in many configurations. Wired communication, optical fiber communication, and wireless electromagnetic communication using visible light, infrared light, and radio frequency can be similarly realized as the bus 32 and the network 30 as necessary.

  Input device 22 may include one or more physical embodiments. For example, the keyboard 34 can be used for user interaction as well as the mouse 36 or pen input pad 37. The touch screen 38 and the telephone 39, that is, the communication line 39 can be used to communicate with other devices or users. Similarly, the scanner 40 can be used to receive graphic inputs, and these inputs may or may not be converted to other formats. The hard drive 41, that is, another memory device 41 is arranged in the node 11, arranged in another node 52 (for example, 52, 54, etc.) of the network 30, or via another network. It can be used as an input device regardless of the arrangement.

  The output device 24 can similarly include one or more physical hardware units. For example, port 28 is typically used to accept input internally and send output from node 11. In any case, the monitor 42 provides output to the user during the process for feedback to the user or to support bi-directional communication between the processor 12 and the user. Information is output from output device 24 using printer 44, hard drive 46 or other device.

  In general, the network 30 to which the node 11 is connected is connected to another network 50 via the router 48. Typically, the two nodes 11, 52 are located in the network 30, are located in adjacent networks 30, 50, or are separated as individual nodes 11, 52 of the interconnect network by a plurality of routers 48 and a plurality of networks 50. can do. Individual nodes 52 (eg, 11, 48, 52, 54) can have various communication functions.

  In one embodiment, minimal logic functions can be utilized on all nodes 52. Here, it should be noted that any of the individual nodes 11, 48, 52, 54 can be collectively referred to as a node 11 or a node 52. Each node includes a processor 12 configured to allow other components 14-46 to be arranged in any manner.

  The network 30 includes one or more servers 54. A server can be used to manage, store, transfer, transmit, access, update, etc. any number of files or databases of other nodes 52 of the network 30 if practical. Normally, the server 54 is accessible from all nodes 11 and 52 of the network 30. In any case, other special functions, including communications, applications, directory services, etc., are performed by an individual server 54 or multiple servers 54.

  In general, the node 11 needs to communicate with the server 54, the router 48, or the node group 52 through the network 30. Similarly, node 11 needs to communicate with a number of remote nodes 52 via another network (50) of the interconnect network. Similarly, the individual components 12-46 need to communicate with each other. Communication links are usually provided between any device pair.

  With reference to FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the system 60 includes various hardware and software components to sell, track, track and implement reward structures, test and motivate consumers, License fee allocation and rewards and nutrient delivery can be performed in an integrated manner. In one embodiment, the system 60 may include hardware and software suitable for making a connection with the Internet 62. For example, the Internet service provider 64 can connect to the system 60 through an Internet service provider (ISP) interface 66. Alternatively, or in addition to the above configuration, the telecommunications interface 68 can be connected to a conventional telecommunications network 69. In either or both cases, the system 60 allows communication with networks of customers, operators, merchants, managers, suppliers, etc.

  Database system 70 can be configured to operate in any of a number of modes. For example, an object-oriented database incorporates both executable files and attributes (operational data) into a single object associated with a particular function, purpose, entity, or the like. Similarly, relational databases operate based on tables that are collected and managed by an independent executable or database engine.

  Either the database engine 72 is independent of the database record 74, or the database engine 72 can be executed by an individual object as an executable file and an attribute, respectively. It is not necessary to determine whether it is embedded. Database system 70 provides the functionality of database engine 72, which moves data into or out of database record 74, and performs search, indexing, etc. of database record 74. Have

  In one embodiment, server 76 is programmed in software, hardware, or both to process uploaded data files received from an operator operating in accordance with the present invention. For example, data files received for processing or capture directly into the database 74 are uploaded to the server 76 via the Internet 62 or telecommunications network 69 from other users (customers, merchants, operators, etc.).

  Software updates are required for software to operate with the system 60 or to operate a scanner (see, for example, scanner 102 in FIGS. 3-5, 7). The server 78 supplies the updated software to customers who have access to the software to which they are downloaded, particularly those who need software such as operators or distributors. Normally, the update software realizes the latest operating characteristics of the scanner 102 by the server 78 supplying the operator.

  In one presently contemplated embodiment, the authentication server 80 manages the authentication and sends the authentication to the operator so that an authorized legitimate scan can be performed using the scanner 102. That is, for example, various patents, licenses, ownership rights, etc. are the most important purposes of intellectual property rights related to the scanner. Accordingly, a number of mechanisms can be executed to obtain revenue from the legitimate use of the scanner 102. For example, if a royalty fee is charged based on the use of the scanner 102, the authentication server 80 assigns, tracks, and controls usage so that the royalty fee is based on usage.

  When the machine is sold, a royalty fee is paid based on the selling price of the scanner 102. Accordingly, the authentication server 80 performs an operation in a role of assigning authentication on a continuous basis or on a specific accidental basis. Depending on the architecture chosen, servers 76, 78, and 80 are all connected to database system 70. In another embodiment, the data file server 76 is connected to the database system 70 and communicates with the authentication server 80 to perform its control functions in a legitimate manner. Similarly, software update server 78 may be installed independently or connected to other modules or components of system 60 to integrate the provision, tracking and accounting of various services.

  The system 82 is actually a separate server 81, a stand-alone hardware system, or simply implemented in an executable file that cooperates with or is incorporated into the authentication server 80. Is done.

  Similarly, the server 76 connects to the authentication server 80, in which case the authentication server 80 provides a gatekeeping function, and the operator is granted the necessary authentication to upload the file to the server 76. Provide functionality. Therefore, various connection methods and control methods can be executed.

  In one embodiment, server 80 may be a web server and transfers files uploaded by computer 100 and operator to server 76 from server 76 to database 70. The planning system 90 takes in software, data, or both, and allocates, manages, tracks, and accounts for the resources of the company to which the server 60 provides the function.

  Enterprise resource planning system 90 also includes or builds plans, schemes or controls for system payments or other resource allocations. The system 90 periodically supplies an update plan to the database system 70.

  The loyalty module 92 may be an executable file, system object, server, etc. that allows for control of patent royalties and provides data related to licensing technology. For example, a royalty fee must be paid for the use of the patented scanner 102, which is supplied by the royalty module 92, included in the module, stored, built, and enhanced by the module Or according to a delivery schedule.

  Similarly, fee system 94 includes, builds, stores, generates, assigns, controls, distributes, or enhances fees, bonuses, and other financial payment schedules. Not only the authentication server 80, permit distribution system 82, but also the upload data file server 76 and software update server 78 process information data resources that flow into and out of the system 60. The quantity and system module 87 is responsible for issuing and assigning information regarding sales quantities and relationships between networks such as sellers and operators.

  The dealer portal 86 is embodied in the web server as software in the system 60, hardware, or both. The entire system 60 is hosted by a single computer, where each module or component is simply a programmed function such as a software application.

  The consumer portal 88 publishes a consumer web page 89 (for example, 89a, 89b). In other words, the consumer portal 88 allows the consumer to track purchases, scan data obtained from various product lists implemented by the scanner 102, product information, information for contacting the seller, and the like. The consumer portal 88 can be generally used by all consumers, authorized specific consumers, or a combination of these, but what kind of consumer can be used by the consumer portal 88? Is determined by software, security, ownership, etc.

  In one embodiment, modem server 84 provides a bank of modems that allow access from computers making connections through telecommunications network 69. Thus, the modem server 84 can operate within the system 60 via the telecommunications interface, ie, the wide area network interface 68.

  With reference to FIG. 3, one embodiment of the system 60 includes a user interface host 100 that provides a connection with a telecommunications interface 68 via a telecommunications network 69. In many embodiments, interface 68 may be referred to as a wide area network (WAN) interface 68. Accordingly, the user interface 100 can be a desktop computer, a computer such as a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or other processor. The user interface 100 can be a portable, digital computer dedicated to the control and operation of the scanner 102.

  The scanner 102 can be constructed according to the technique disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,205,354 by Gellerman et al., Which is incorporated herein by reference. The scanner 102 directs the irradiation beam 103 having an appropriate spectrum toward the subject 104. The subject 104 is, for example, hand or arm skin. Due to Raman scattering, light having a wavelength shifted from the wavelength of light in the input spectrum 103 returns as a beam 105. In response, the beam 105 is detected by the scanner 102 and the data from the detector is processed accordingly as described below.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the user interface host 100 is directly connected to the system 60 by a telecommunications interface 68. Information supplied by the scanner to the host 100 is received by the system 60 via a direct line or the Internet 62.

  In contrast, the consumer computer 106 connects to the Internet 62 and accesses the consumer portal 88 through the system 60. For example, system 60 operates in accordance with a contract with Internet service provider 64 to publish web page 89 from consumer portal 88 over Internet 62. These web pages 89 can be accessed by the consumer through the consumer computer 106.

  Similarly, for example, a dealer computer 108 owned by a nutrient distributor can connect to the Internet 62 and access the dealer portal 86. The dealer portal 86 supplies the quantity and system program 87 or data to the dealer computer 108. FIG. 3 shows a database 70 as the “most important component” of the system 60, which receives and exchanges information from the enterprise resource planning system 90 and the loyalty system 92. Similarly, the database exchanges information with fee system 94 and consumer portal 88. Mediating applications or mediating connections can be executed as needed.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the dealer portal 86 connects to the fee system 94 and issues information to the authorized merchants to authenticate these merchants. Numerous security methods are performed on the normal system 60, and security access is only performed by those authorized to receive security access.

  Authentication server 80 is connected to telecommunications interface 68 through line 109a. The upload data server 76 connects to the telecommunications interface 68 through line 109b. Appropriate schemes and management schemes can be used to optimize data flow, data processing, and provision of appropriate information.

  Referring to FIG. 4, in another embodiment, the system 60 accurately connects through the Internet 62. That is, the consumer computer 106 and the dealer computer 108 access the Internet 62 to obtain access rights to the respective portals 88 and 86 of the system 60. In yet another embodiment, either or both of the consumer computer 106 and the dealer computer 108 are connected to the system 60 through the telecommunications interface 68.

  Referring to FIG. 5, in yet another embodiment, the system 60 connects to one or more user interfaces 100a through a telecommunications interface 68 to support a scanner 102a that scans a subject 104a. With the same token, the user interface host 100b makes a connection through the Internet 62 and ISP 64 to access the system 60. Many people believe that the Internet 62 without appropriate measures is less secure than the direct line 69. Therefore, extra software, signatures, etc. are required for connection through the Internet 62 in order to ensure equivalent security.

  Referring to FIG. 6, the method and apparatus according to the present invention may include a service core 180. In order to operate the system 60, the entity data 182 is maintained by the database 70. Entity data 182 includes information regarding merchants, operators, consumers, patent licensees, manufacturers, suppliers, and others. The relationship data 184 is a systematic diagram of individuals or entities (for example, connections indicating relationships between sales entities at a plurality of stages), rank (for example, organization scale, business content, production volume). Etc.). Permits, including licensors (licensers) and licensees (licensees), contracts, and other information, are included in the relationship data 184. The relationship data 184 is particularly important during communication and rewards.

  The sales data 186 includes the date and time of an event such as information presentation, sales, scanning, etc. Similarly, data 186 includes product identification, quantity of specific products, quantity normalized to be close to dollars, and data accumulated over various periods of interest in sales or other activities. Similarly, sales data 186 includes scanner identification information, customer identification information, authentication numbers, merchant identification information, and other information useful for associating sales with entities 182 and relationships 184.

  The quantity data 188 can be considered as all information that is useful in determining the sales performance of individuals and entities. Since the relationship data 184 includes a systematic relationship between vendors in the organization, the quantity data 188 associated with each of these individuals depends on these relationships. For example, the sales commission for a merchant when a merchant sells directly to a consumer merchant is typically higher than the commission paid to that same merchant for the same sale.

  In any case, as the quantity increases within a particular merchant or manager organization, the reward to quantity ratio increases as an incentive. Therefore, the quantity data 188 becomes intermediate information of the sales data 186, and important information necessary for the reward method and the reward schedule can be specified by this information. The quantity data 188 can be the input, output, or both of reward calculation equations. The quantity data 188 can be raw data, intermediate data incorporating both sales data 186 and relationship data 184, or a combination of these data.

  Since marketing has become a global activity, currency data 189 is important. For example, in service core 180, currency data 189 is needed to allow rewards between individuals having relationships defined by relationship data 184 covering different countries, or among other entities. For example, there are many currencies in Asia. Similarly, in Europe, attempts are made to unify the currency into the euro, but there are various currencies in Europe.

  In any case, with the ease of travel, it is no longer special for individuals to contact and communicate across borders and language barriers. Thus, Latin American countries can build relationships across more than one country. Similarly, merchants or others in the United States can establish relationships with Europeans, Asians, Africans, Latin Americans, and the like. Accordingly, the currency data 189 and the service core 180 enable the operation of the reward system, and the credit settlement with the correct currency can be performed.

  Data 182, 184, 186, 188 and 189 are maintained by the database 70. The presentation system 190 supplies, for example, presentation graphics and presentation data, and formats these graphics and data. The presentation engine 192 is programmed to provide presentation data 194 to all visitors to the consumer portal 88 or dealer portal 86.

Presentation engine 192 interacts with the operator. Presentation data 194 may include formatting 196 and content 198.
The processing system 200 is important when processing information transmission. For example, the database engine 72 often includes very sophisticated programming in a number of different libraries or other executable programs, thereby capturing, outputting, and managing database records 74. A number of necessary components currently contemplated for the processing system 200 include a processing engine 202 that is programmed to process information such as financial information 204 and report information 206.

  The financial information 204 may include raw data, partial processing data, personal data regarding all personal consumers, merchants, persons in a legal entity, or entities. Similarly, the report information 206 can include information regarding sales volume, marketing alliances, individuals, and the like.

  A widely available Internet system typically benefits from the security system 210. The executable file 212 or algorithm 212 that performs the security operates according to data 214 such as entity and personal passwords, authorities, classifications or classes, classes of information, and the like. Accordingly, the security system 210 executes the algorithm 212 to authenticate, obtain, or operate according to the data 214 on which the security system 210 depends.

  Referring to FIG. 7, the user interface host 100 or host 100 is shown operating in conjunction with the scanner 102 as the system 260, which allows the other hand, arm, or other skin of the subject 104 to be used. Part inspection or investigation is performed. Subject 104 is typically an expected consumer. Details of the operation of the scanner 102 are disclosed in Gellerman (Patent Document 1: US Pat. No. 6,205,354). It is considered sufficient to show a simplified schematic diagram here. In general, master processor 262 may be a CPU or processor in host computer 100. Usually, the master processor 262 needs to realize a number of functions.

  For example, the management module 264 executes the function on the processor 262 and manages the entire process. The presentation 190 operates on the processor 262 of the host 100 by programming. The processing system 200 can process various types of information by programming functions into the processor 262.

  Main technical information from the scanner 102 is processed and information available to the user is provided. Therefore, the management module 264 manages the order of presentation information, incorporates control functions, and processes all information received from the scanner 102, input information to the user (operator), and output information from the user. In one embodiment, the management module 264 is responsible for both the function and allocation of the processor 262 resources.

  On the other hand, the user interface module 266 supplies presentation graphics, information, and prompts, and fetches and sends information necessary for the step of the event sequence in which the host 100 and the scanner 102 operate in cooperation with each other. . The detector module 268 is assigned any or all of processing of information input from the scanner 102 and processing of information supplied as an output to the user interface module 266.

  The apparatus 10 will be described in detail later. In any case, as a general premise, the detector module 268 plays a role in data processing of information input from the scanner 102. The user interface module 266 performs a role related to information provided to and sent from the operator. The management module 264 controls the operation of the processor 262, which includes control of the event sequence performed by the scanner 102, and further manages the interface between the user, the host 100 and the scanner 102 by this module. Can do.

  User interface 270 can include any input and output systems. For example, a keyboard, a mouse, a data input device and a data output device, a drive, a screen, a printer, etc. are all properly arranged and used as an input device, an output device, or both devices for interacting with an operator. be able to.

  In general, the scanner 102 includes a laser light source 272 that can be implemented using any suitable means. For example, the laser can be a large laser or a small laser. The light emitting diode emits laser light. The laser light source 272 performs a certain degree of control by itself, the control device 274, or a control function incorporated in the host 100. In general, the laser light source 272 performs a certain level of autonomous low-level physical control. The scanner 102 or other hardware of the host 100 provides additional instructions at a high level.

  Finally, the laser light source 272 is controlled by a signal received through a port 276 that connects the host 100 to the scanner 102. Module 264 processes the input, output, or both of controller 274. In contrast, the laser light source 272 emits a beam 278 toward the director 280. Director 280 may or may not be required in various embodiments. In many embodiments, the separation mirror operates as a director 280 to pass the beam 278 into the beam 282 that strikes the subject 104.

  As a result of the beam 282 impinging on the subject 104, a re-radiated beam or a scattered beam (eg, according to the Raman scattering principle) returns as a beam 284 redirected by the director 280. When the director 280 turns the beam 284, this beam becomes a beam 286 that strikes the detector 288. Many intermediate paths, splitters, directors, filters, polarizing elements, etc. are provided to ensure that the beams 278, 282, 284, 286, all derivatives thereof, or their components meet the required optical requirements. it can. The Gellerman patent describes in more detail various embodiments for implementing the scanner 102.

  Eventually, beam 286 strikes detector 288, which provides a display or signal output corresponding to the intensity and frequency of energy contained in beam 286. Similar to the controller 274 that controls the laser light source 272, the detector 288 typically includes a number of low-level hardware controllers 292 connected to the detector 288, thereby allowing the scanner 102, host 100, or Communication with other hardware existing inside both is facilitated.

  Detector 288 provides a signal 289 that passes through preprocessor 290. That is, depending on the advanced functionality recommended to be programmed into the hardware, firmware, or software within the scanner 102, the preprocessor 290 analyzes the information output from the detector 288 as a raw electrical signal 289. Can be performed. In general, the preprocessor 290 has functions such as sampling, smoothing, and filtering. Information from the preprocessor 290 is finally sent to the host 100, in particular the detector module 268. The detector module 268 is responsible for processing the data generated at the detector 288. Referring again to FIG. 7, the schematic diagram of the system 260 in this figure represents the functions logically together. To enable reading by the system 260, many independent components in various arrangements can be used to perform the functions required by the system 260. This reading or output can be characterized as a body defense score (body antioxidant level: BDS) corresponding to the carotenoid content of the subject 104.

  In general, devices developed by Gellerman are for detecting carotenoids in the skin. In any case, other systems 200 can scan different portions of subject 104, including other tissues and the like. Thus, one embodiment of the apparatus and method according to the present invention will include a license to implement Gellerman's technology as a scanner 102 in system 260, although other technologies may be applied to other embodiments. it can.

  Referring to FIG. 8, the operation method 324 of the scanner 260 includes turning on the power 326 of the scanner 102, that is, starting 326. Although predetermined calibration is performed during manufacturing, field calibration 328 works effectively during each test, ie, each power-up event 326, or by performing it periodically. Subject presentation 330 may or may not include a permit presentation shown as an optional step in parentheses.

  Prompt 332 includes various instructions or images for instructing the user, the subject, or both. Notification of operations such as starting, identifying the subject's position, or moving the subject's hand or arm laterally closer to or away from the target location to perform a correct and reliable scan Is done through prompt 332. Similarly, the operator receives notifications of steps, waiting periods, actions to be performed, keys to be entered, and other actions to be taken during scanner operations, before, after, or scanner operations. For example, the prompted operation sequence includes not only the operation of the scanner 102 but also an operation of uploading data by performing a dialog with the SCG system 60 or a dial-up procedure with the home system 60.

  Similarly, browsers, wizards, menus, process steps, etc. all run at prompt 332 to reduce complexity and the level of training required. In one embodiment, prompt 332 can provide information that can be used anywhere, beyond language differences, by imaging most of it.

  The basic purpose of the scanner 102 is to scan 334 the subject 104. Scanner 102 illuminates the subject and detects the response (re-radiation or backscattering of illumination from subject 104 according to Raman scattering theory) to provide a detectable result. The host 100 cooperates with the scanner 102 to process information 336. The data is adjusted or filtered. Similarly, the data can be fitted into a single curve to integrate multiple laser scans performed in a single scan 334 of the subject 104 in a statistically reliable manner.

  Extracting target frequency data most commonly associated with Raman scattering or other scattering techniques that can be used by the scanner 102 allows estimation of intensity. The most focused point is the bottom value and peak value of a specific part of the intensity chart.

  One purpose is to associate the data with one score, which is reproducible and has great significance for the subject 104. Thus, the BDS score association process and output, or other output that has great significance to the user, forms part of the critical data processing 336. Accordingly, the output 338 of the body defense score or other output measurement value is performed by printing, a display image on the screen, a figure, or a graph. Once the new subject 104 has been scanned, test 340 returns process 324 to “present subject 330” to scan for the new subject. If there are no new subjects, the system stops and ends its operation 342.

  Referring to FIG. 9, the user interface host 100 used to connect the scanner 102 to the global system 60 is a laptop, notebook, personal digital assistant such as Palm Pilot or Ipaq, digital tablet, Alternatively, it can be implemented using other dedicated computer devices. In one embodiment, the user interface host 100 is an independent computer device that is physically separate from the scanner 102. However, in other possible embodiments, the user interface host 100 can be integrated with the scanner 102 into a single device.

  The user interface host 100 includes various memory modules 14 including volatile memory such as RAM, or memory that is more persistent with respect to data retention such as ROM, or magnetic storage such as floppy disks or hard disks. Can be included. The memory 14 may include executable operational data 352, 354, 356 that control and operate the scanner 102 and implement an operator graphical interface 358, as well as a seamless global This is effective for replying to the reward system 60.

  For example, in one embodiment, the memory 14 may include an operating system 352 that performs basic system tasks, operates the file system, and provides an interface between applications and hardware components. The operating system 352 can be a collaborative system 352 such as Windows or Linux, or it can be a dedicated operating system 352 specifically designed to operate the scanner 102.

  In one embodiment, the memory 14 optionally includes a browser 354. Browser 354 can be used for a web-based system to communicate with central server 60 or groups of servers 60. Browser 354 may also be used to communicate directly with dealer portal 86, consumer portal 88, or other Internet sites.

  According to the present invention, the scanner interface module 356 can be provided in the memory 14 for connection with the scanner 102. For example, the scanner interface module 356 can include a graphical user interface 358 for use by an operator. The graphical user interface 358 includes a form or template that displays data for the operator and receives inputs such as demographic information, manipulated variables, and the like.

  An initialization module 360 can be used to initialize the scanner 102 prior to operation. For example, the initialization module 360 reads a parameter file and initializes important coefficients and variables that are used to operate the scanner 102. Some of these files are generated during the factory calibration process and are copied to the user interface host 100 when the scanner 102 is “coupled” to the user interface host 100. Since all scanners 102 have characteristics and calibration specifications that can be distinguished from others, a serial number is assigned to each scanner 102. When the scanner operates, the serial number is compared with the serial number stored in the configuration file to confirm that the file corresponds to the connected scanner 102. The initialization module 360 also verifies that the scanner 102 operates with a version of software associated with the scanner.

  The initialization module 360 also initializes one or a number of communication ports between the user interface host 100 and the scanner 102. Also, the coefficients and parameters are read from the scanner memory and analyzed by the user interface host 100.

  The status check module 362 reads various statuses from the scanner 102. For example, the status check module 362 reads the serial number or other identification value of the installed scanner 102 to confirm that the scanner 102 is the first device to be initialized. The status check module 362 also checks various statuses of the laser 272, such as temperature, or verifies that the scanner 102 has been sufficiently "warmed up". The return value indicates that the scanner 102 is connected to the user interface host 100 and is communicating with the host. Other values indicate that the operating parameters are within predetermined limits, thus ensuring that subsequent scans will return accurate and consistent data. The status check module 362 functions exclusively to check the value of important indicators at every selection point.

  A noise filtering module 364 is used to remove noise from the data collected by the scan. For example, in one embodiment, a “dark scan” is used to remove noise from the scan of the subject 104. A “dark correction” scan is generated by subtracting the raw data values collected during the dark scan pixel by pixel from the raw data values collected during the scan of the subject 104.

  The noise filtering module 364 checks whether the scanner is warmed up and stable whenever the scanner 102 is recalibrated or when the scanner is considered drifting. Perform a “dark scan” in response to various conditions such as

  The reference measurement module 366 performs a scan used in the calibration process. For example, variable values and coefficient values can be set by a reference scan, so that the result (eg, the score supplied to the customer being scanned) is almost equivalent to the value that is considered to have been generated at the factory.

  A calibration module 368 can be provided to calculate, transform, and test key parameters used to calculate the subject score. The subject score refers to an assessment or measurement of the health of the subject 104 (customer) at a certain stage. For example, according to the present invention, scanner 102 provides a score indicating the amount of carotenoid contained in the skin of subject 104. However, the score need not refer to carotenoids and can refer to any measurement or assessment of the patient's health.

  The scanner 102 calculates a score, such as the body defense score of the subject 104. In addition to the raw data measured from the subject 104, a score can be calculated using the inputs generated by the factory calibration process, reference measurements 366, and noise filtering 364.

  A confirmation module 370 is used to confirm that the scanner 102 is correctly calibrated. For example, the scanner 102 can be calibrated using a reference material such as a card or other material containing a known concentration or level of carotenoids. The scanner 102 can be calibrated with reference materials at the factory. In one embodiment, a synthetic material that exhibits a response similar to carotenoids has been shown to function as a calibration material. Synthetic materials can be formulated to behave in a manner that does not contain any carotenoids, ie, exhibit low or high values. Once recalibrated, the scanner 102 again measures the concentration of the reference material.

  Subject scan module 372 is responsible for performing a scan on subject 104. For example, the subject scan module 372 allows for a normal scan of the subject's hand skin and can therefore return a body defense score. The subject scan module 372 also confirms that the serial number obtained from the installed scanner 102 is the same as the scanner 102 that was initialized for the first time to further ensure that the score is accurate. Various operating parameters such as temperature, laser status, etc. can be checked to confirm that the scanner 102 is ready to generate reliable data.

  In one embodiment, subject scan module 372 performs a pre-scan for a predetermined period of time, such as 20 seconds, to “bleach” the subject's skin. Next, the data acquisition scan is performed various times, and the body defense score is calculated for each scan. These scores are averaged.

  Perform one operation to check for scan transmission errors. The scan is also “dark corrected” using the data calculated by the noise filtering module 364. If excessive light emission exceeding the performance range of the scanner 102 is detected, the scanning is stopped. If the scan is successful, the body defense score is calculated by analyzing the data obtained from the scan. A test is performed on the data received from the scan to determine if there is a significant difference between any of a number of body defense scores obtained from the subject. If a large difference is detected, the operator is notified by an error message.

  The diagnostic module 376 diagnoses problems, settings, or status of the scanner 102 such as the communication speed or baud rate of the scanner 102. Various commands are sent to the scanner 102 to monitor the scanner response and confirm that the scanner 102 is operating correctly.

  Another command is sent to read the scanner 102 serial number, or to read the scanner firmware and hardware component version numbers. Still other instructions set temperature, set integration time, set coefficient, turn laser 272 on or off, return the most recently calculated body defense score, return raw data, or Peak data calculated from the data can be returned.

  Upload / download module 376 functions to upload subject data, such as body defense scores or demographic data, to a remote server, such as upload data file server 76. Module 376 further coordinates the download when downloading a new version of software from a remote server such as software update server 78 to operate scanner 102.

  The scanner interface module 356 can store the data 378 by further programming. Data 378 includes raw data 380 collected by scanner 102, processing data 382 such as body defense scores, and subject data 384 such as demographic data corresponding to each subject 104.

  In one embodiment of the calibration process, a dark cap is used. However, the two-sided calibration cap can be replaced with a synthetic composition having a base composition of a silicone compound (a material also known as a silicon viscoelastic and commonly known as Silly Putty). Various concentrations of additives are mixed with the base. While the additive is a naturally occurring compound, the composite used in the film proofing system has been found to be properly shaped and stable when powdered and mixed with a base. There are several of these calibration standards. Each standard represents a different concentration of additive, including neutral or no sample. This material is packed into multiple tubes, where each tube contains enough material to perform 180 calibrations. Thereby, the “problem due to the cap placement” when the scanner is calibrated can be avoided.

  Operators need to wash and dry their hands thoroughly before processing these synthetic calibration material standards. The operator covers the device window and puts a cap on it. Next, a sufficient amount of standard is prepared and the hole in the cap is just filled by twisting the dial on the bottom of the tube of standard material. The operator kneads a ¼ inch sphere of putty-like material for about 15 seconds, then rolls it into a single sphere that is formed by a hole in the calibration cap around the probe window. Place inside. As the material is scanned, the machine is calibrated accordingly. This standard is discarded after a single use to prevent contamination. The machine can be calibrated using “white” scan, low scan, and high scan, as was done in the film cap system.

  The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the principles or basic characteristics of the invention. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims and not by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

1 is a schematic block diagram of a digital computer system as used for various components in an apparatus and method according to the present invention. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a system operating through a computer system that manages a consumer scan process. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a seamless global reward system that operates through the Internet and through a direct connection with the system. Figure 3 is another embodiment of a seamless global tracking system according to the present invention, all operating through the Internet. FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a reporting system that works with a scanner system that operates over the Internet and through a direct connection. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a service core that includes data for managing sales and scanning information. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a scanner and master processor operating as a scanning system and user interface host according to the present invention. It is a schematic block diagram of one Embodiment of the operating method of the user interface host connected to a scanner and a scanner. FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a modular system included in a computer memory for operating and integrating a scanning system according to the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

  60 ... System, 62 ... Internet, 100 ... User interface, 102 ... Scanner

Claims (13)

An on-line data collection and management device for re-radiation response testing and test data from living body tissue,
A test device that performs non-destructive and non-invasive measurements in vivo by detecting a re-radiation response from a selected molecular structure contained in the biological tissue of the subject;
A computer device operatively connected to the test device, performing measurement analysis, being delivered to the subject's biological tissue, and determining a nutrient intake level corresponding to the selected molecular structure;
A communication device for transmitting the data to a remote location over the Internet to store and process data reflecting analysis by the computer device;
A server operatively connected to the computer device via the communication device via the Internet, receiving data reflecting measurements corresponding to a plurality of subjects, and storing and processing the data; With
The apparatus, wherein the server is programmed to provide an output directed to the subject as a result of the measurement. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a synthetic polymer selectively added to calibrate the apparatus by a plurality of tests as an alternative to a living subject. With multiple test devices assigned to multiple operators,
The test device group of the plurality of test devices is movable and independent of each other, and each test device is irradiated non-destructively and distributed from a central location away from the sample. A calibration test is performed by measuring the irradiation response from a sample consisting of a polymer, and a corresponding value reflecting the concentration of the additive as an alternative to the molecular structure associated with the nutrients in a living subject is determined. The apparatus according to claim 2, which is configured as follows. The computer device is programmed to be controlled to prevent unauthorized use by code received from the server over the Internet and corresponding to data uploads to the server over the Internet, The apparatus of claim 3. The server is further programmed to incorporate a database for collecting and managing data corresponding to a plurality of subjects via the Internet, and the plurality of computer devices and a plurality of computer devices connected to the plurality of computer devices. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the test device operates at any time and location, the database is programmed to track the subject, and the data corresponds to each subject. A method of remotely tracking and controlling a test population for nutrient levels via the Internet, comprising:
Providing the operator with a test device effective to non-destructively and non-invasively measure the chemical composition of the subject's tissue in vivo;
Non-destructively and non-invasively measuring in vivo the irradiation response from the chemical component by detection of the chemical component contained in the tissue of the subject by an operator;
Analyzing the measurement with a computer device to determine a comparative nutrient level of the subject corresponding to a chemical component of the subject;
Transmitting the data reflecting the analysis to a server located at a remote location via the Internet, and storing and processing the data;
Processing by the server to provide output directed to the subject as a result of the measurement;
Controlling subsequent testing by the test device with the output via the Internet. 7. The method of claim 6, further comprising tracking, analyzing, and transmitting rewards corresponding to management of a nutritional supplement directed to a subject being tested according to the method over the internet. Further comprising: controlling a plurality of test devices assigned to an operator to prevent illegal use by a code received from the server via the Internet and corresponding to uploading data to the server; The method of claim 7. Managing the database via the Internet to further collect and manage data corresponding to a plurality of subjects, the plurality of computer devices and a plurality of tests connected to the plurality of computer devices 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the device operates at any time and place, the database is programmed to track the subject, and the data corresponds to each subject. A process for feedback control of the management of biological nutrition supplements by a computer,
Providing a device for performing a test, measuring a subject's tissue in vivo, non-invasively and non-destructively, confirming a concentration of a selected molecular structure in the subject's tissue; Providing the device, comprising outputting a value corresponding to the concentration;
Controlling the operation of the device by the central server by downloading data from the device to the central server via the Internet and uploading an authentication code from the central server to the device;
Calibrating the device by irradiating a test sample consisting of a selectively added synthetic polymer to provide corresponding results such that the reproducibility of the operation of the device is adjusted;
Irradiating a user's tissue with the device and measuring with the device to detect the concentration of the selected molecular structure in the tissue. The calibration provides a white scan that irradiates a target formed from a synthetic material that returns approximately the same signal as the living organism's skin, reducing the impact of the selected molecular structure on the calibration. The process of claim 10 comprising. The process of claim 11, wherein the calibration comprises testing a calibrated artificial test sample multiple times with a well-defined dosage as a replacement for a living subject. The calibration is
Forming a silicone composition that responds to radiation in the same manner as the subject's skin;
11. The process of claim 10, comprising adding an additive selected to the silicone composition to respond in the same manner as the selected molecular structure to irradiation from the device.

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