Constructing real time vein imaging device utilizing near infrared technology and embedded system

Abstract

This paper proposes an idea that utilizes near-infrared (NIR) imaging technique and embedded system to construct a low-cost device for detecting and visualizing veins of patients, who have problems with vein visibility, directly on the skin. The use of NIR light has received a considerable attention as it is non-invasive and can reveal much more information than visible one. By convention, biological materials of blood (hemoglobin, etc.) has larger attenuation coefficient than those of the skin (collagen, melanin, etc.), especially in the NIR region. Accordingly, vein patterns would appear darker, whereas skin would appear lighter. The embedded system then captures image of the interest area and conducts image processing in order to enhance contrast between veins and the surroundings. The experimental results show that, even in a preliminary implementation, images of vein pattern and location obtained by using the device exhibit promising consistency, accuracy and time-performance. It is anticipated that, with further investigation and optimization, the proposed system can develop and construct 3D depth image of veins.