Automatic discrimination system, automatic discrimination method, and automatic discrimination program

Abstract

The present invention provides an automatic discrimination system, which includes: an information storage unit that stores detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having detection result image information obtained by transcribing expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; and a discrimination result export unit that compares the image contained in the detection result image information with a data table and exports the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an automatic discrimination system, an automatic discrimination method, and an automatic discrimination program. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, known analytical methods for analyzing biological components such as proteins and nucleic acids contained in liquid samples included immunochromatography and nucleic acid chromatography. These analytical methods, for example, utilize test strips that employ paper chromatography (hereinafter sometimes referred to as chromatographic strips).

[0003] Chromatographic strips may have, for example, a sample supply section, a membrane section for developing the sample, and an absorbent pad section for absorbing the sample. After the sample is supplied to the sample supply section and developed using a developing solvent, the color of the lines produced when a specified biological component is present is read on the membrane section (the color development of the test line), thereby enabling the detection of the biological component contained in the supplied sample.

[0004] Regarding the reading of line coloring on the membrane, the chromatographic strip is usually placed on a judgment aid (hereinafter, sometimes called a "chromatographic strip support") that records the detection items corresponding to the position of the line coloring, and the detection items that can be seen by visual confirmation are made by visually confirming that the line coloring is visible.

[0005] Furthermore, for the purpose of quantitative analysis based on the intensity (concentration) of line coloring, and to suppress human reading errors when there are multiple colored test lines, the following techniques are being researched to automatically read the coloring of lines on chromatographic strips using a device equipped with an image sensor or similar imaging unit, instead of relying on visual observation by a human. Regarding such techniques, for example, techniques have been proposed concerning devices that use an image sensor to capture a colorimetric image (chromogenic region) in the chromatogram, perform various image processing on the captured image, and thereby perform chromatographic-based quantitative determination (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2000-266752

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2009-98080

[0008] Here, the intensity (concentration) of the coloring in the chromatographic strip depends on the amount and concentration of the target substance in the supplied sample, and therefore can be weak or insufficient. Thus, if the coloring in the chromatographic strip is weak, even if the coloring can be read visually (the presence or absence of coloring can be identified), sometimes it is impossible to correctly read the coloring when using a device with an image sensor or similar means (the presence or absence of coloring cannot be identified, leading to incorrect judgment).

[0009] In addition, when attempting to read by photographing the line coloring in a chromatographic strip using a device having an image sensor or the like, affected by light such as illumination during the photographing of the line coloring, so-called "overexposure (Japanese: shirotobi)" sometimes occurs. At this time, the weaker the line coloring, the lower the reading accuracy.

[0010] Moreover, since there is a case where the line coloring (color development of the test line) in the chromatographic strip changes color over time (decolorization or darkening of the color), it is difficult to store the chromatographic strip after inspection for a long time while maintaining the correct line coloring at the time of inspection. Therefore, when wanting to store the information of the line coloring of the chromatographic strip after inspection for a long time, in the case of storing the chromatographic strip itself, the color development state of the chromatographic strip changes, and there is a problem that the information of the correct line coloring at the time of inspection is lost. In addition, in the case of storing the image obtained by photographing the chromatographic strip, there is a problem that it is difficult to recognize the test line with weak color development from the image.

[0011] As the worldwide problem of the recent novel coronavirus pandemic has become apparent, there is a high need to provide and improve a system that can collect, analyze, etc. information that can discriminate the discrimination result of a specimen. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The subject of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned various problems in the past and achieve the following objectives. That is, the objective of the present invention is to provide an automatic discrimination system or the like that can store for a long time information that can recognize the expression information in a chromatographic strip after inspection and can be stored as unified information, and based on the information that can recognize the expression information, can correctly derive the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip.

[0013] As a means for solving the above-mentioned subject of the present invention, for example, as follows.

[0014] <1> An automatic discrimination system, characterized by having: an information storage unit that stores detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support member, the chromatographic strip support member having the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the chromatographic strip after inspection; and a discrimination result derivation unit that compares the image included in the detection result image information with a data table and derives the discrimination result corresponding to the image included in the data table.

[0015] <2> The automatic discrimination system according to <1> above, wherein the information storage unit stores the specimen information in association with the detection result image information, the specimen information is obtained from the chromatographic strip support member, and the chromatographic strip support member also has the specimen information provided to the chromatographic strip.

[0016] <3> According to the automatic discrimination system described in <2> above, the information storage unit stores the discrimination result exported by the discrimination result exporting unit in association with the specimen information and the detection result image information.

[0017] <4> According to any one of <2> to <3> above, the automatic discrimination system is wherein the specimen information is code information and the detection result image information is identification card information.

[0018] <5> The automatic discrimination system described in any one of <2> to <4> above, wherein the automatic discrimination system further comprises an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the specimen information and the detection result image information.

[0019] <6> According to the automatic discrimination system described in <5> above, the information acquisition unit is a shooting unit.

[0020] <7> An automatic discrimination method, characterized in that it includes: an information storage step, storing detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; and

[0021] The discrimination result export process compares the image contained in the detection result image information with the data table and exports the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

[0022] <8> An automatic discrimination program, characterized in that it causes a computer to perform the following processing: information storage processing, storing detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; and discrimination result export processing, comparing the image contained in the detection result image information with a data table, and exporting the discrimination result contained in the data table corresponding to the image.

[0023] According to the present invention, an automatic discrimination system or the like can be provided, which can store information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strip after inspection for a long period of time and store it as unified information, and can correctly derive the discrimination result of the chromatographic strip based on the information that can identify the expression information. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1A This diagram illustrates an example of how, in conventional technology, a terminal device equipped with an image sensor (an example of an information acquisition unit) reads the coloring of lines in a chromatographic strip.

[0025] Figure 1B This diagram illustrates an example of how, in conventional technology, a terminal device equipped with an image sensor (an example of an information acquisition unit) reads the coloring of lines in a chromatographic strip.

[0026] Figure 1C This diagram illustrates an example of how, in conventional technology, a terminal device equipped with an image sensor (an example of an information acquisition unit) reads the coloring of lines in a chromatographic strip.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a diagram representing an example of the data table used to derive the judgment results.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a discrimination result table that can associate discrimination results with specimen information and detection result image information.

[0029] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing an example of a chromatographic strip support and an example of a chromatographic strip according to the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a display section when the front end of the chromatographic strip is placed on the support surface with the first contact portion abutting the ground.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a top view showing an example of the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 7A From Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the X-X' axis as observed from viewpoint A.

[0033] Figure 7B From Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the Y-Y' axis as observed from viewpoint B.

[0034] Figure 8A From Figure 6 The end face view observed from viewpoint A.

[0035] Figure 8B From Figure 6 The end face view observed from viewpoint B.

[0036] Figure 8C From Figure 6 The end face view observed from viewpoint C.

[0037] Figure 9A This is a perspective view showing an example of a chromatography strip support member according to the first embodiment, having a support surface 11 and a bent portion 22 that is continuous with the support surface 11 via a bend 21.

[0038] Figure 9BThis is a perspective view showing an example of a chromatography strip support member in the first embodiment, in which the bent portion 22 is bent along the fold curve 21.

[0039] Figure 9C This is a perspective view showing an example of a chromatography strip support member in the first embodiment, in which the bent portion 22 is fixed by contact with the support surface 11.

[0040] Figure 10A This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of how the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment is used.

[0041] Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of how the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment is used.

[0042] Figure 10C This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of how the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment is used.

[0043] Figure 10D This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of how the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment is used.

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a modified version of the first embodiment, showing the display section 14.

[0045] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a modified version of the first embodiment, showing the display section 14.

[0046] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing an example of a chromatographic strip support and an example of a chromatographic strip according to the second embodiment.

[0047] Figure 14 This is a top view showing an example of the chromatography strip support of the second embodiment.

[0048] Figure 15A From Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the X-X' axis as observed from viewpoint A.

[0049] Figure 15B From Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the Y-Y' axis as observed from viewpoint B.

[0050] Figure 16A From Figure 14 The end face view observed from viewpoint A.

[0051] Figure 16B From Figure 14 The end face view observed from viewpoint B.

[0052] Figure 16C From Figure 14The end face view observed from viewpoint C.

[0053] Figure 17 This is a perspective view showing an example of a chromatographic strip support and an example of a chromatographic strip according to the third embodiment.

[0054] Figure 18 This is a top view showing an example of the chromatographic strip support of the third embodiment.

[0055] Figure 19A From Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of the X-X' axis as observed from viewpoint A.

[0056] Figure 19B From Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of the Y-Y' axis as observed from viewpoint B.

[0057] Figure 20A From Figure 18 The end face view observed from viewpoint A.

[0058] Figure 20B From Figure 18 The end face view observed from viewpoint B.

[0059] Figure 20C From Figure 18 The end face view observed from viewpoint C.

[0060] Figure 21 This is a top view showing an example of the display format of various information possessed by the chromatographic strip support of the third embodiment.

[0061] Figure 22 This is another example of a top view showing the display format of various information possessed by the chromatographic strip support of the third embodiment.

[0062] Figure 23 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 24 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 25 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the information storage unit of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 26 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the discrimination result deriving unit of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 27This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a terminal device of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 28 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a terminal device of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 29 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process of automatically judging a chromatographic strip after inspection using the automatic discrimination system of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0069] (Automatic discrimination system)

[0070] The automatic discrimination system of the present invention is based on the following discovery by the inventors: In the prior art, it is sometimes impossible to retain information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strip after the inspection is completed for a long time, and it is also impossible to correctly derive the discrimination results in the chromatographic strip.

[0071] As mentioned above, the intensity of the coloration of the lines in the chromatographic strip (the color development of the test line) depends on the amount and concentration of the target substance in the supplied sample, and therefore there are cases where the coloration is weak (light). In such cases, even if the concentration of the line coloration can be correctly read by human visual observation, when the line coloration is read automatically using a device with an image sensor or the like, sometimes it cannot be read correctly (the presence or absence of line coloration cannot be identified, resulting in erroneous judgment).

[0072] Furthermore, as mentioned above, when using a device with an image sensor or the like to photograph the coloring of lines in a chromatogram and then reading the image, the light, such as illumination during the photographing of the coloring of the lines, can sometimes cause so-called "overexposure," and the weaker the coloring of the lines, the lower the accuracy of the reading.

[0073] Therefore, in conventional techniques as described above, where the coloring of the test line in the chromatographic strip is read (whether the test line is colored) based on an image obtained by capturing the test line itself using an image sensor or the like, the coloring of the line may be weak (light), sometimes resulting in incorrect judgment.

[0074] Figures 1A to 1C This diagram illustrates an example of how, in conventional technology, a terminal device equipped with an image sensor (an example of an information acquisition unit) reads the coloring of lines in a chromatographic strip.

[0075] In previous technologies, such as Figure 1A As shown, after the chromatographic strip 15 has been inspected, the terminal device 400 (e.g., a smartphone) is activated to take a picture of the chromatographic strip 15.

[0076] Next, in previous technologies, such as Figure 1B As shown, the terminal device 400 reads and identifies the colored lines of the membrane portion 17 that causes the specimen to unfold in the photographed chromatographic strip 15.

[0077] Moreover, in previous technologies, such as Figure 1C As shown, based on the results of reading the line coloring, the presence or absence of line coloring (positive or negative) is determined. Here, Figure 1C The example shown illustrates that because line 5 is lighter in color than other detection lines 1, 3, and 6, although the coloring of line 5 can be visually determined, the terminal device 400 cannot read it correctly. Figure 1C In the example shown, line 5 is actually colored, but the terminal device 400 cannot read it correctly and incorrectly identifies line 5 as negative.

[0078] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the intensity of the coloration of the lines in the chromatographic strip (the color development of the test line) sometimes changes over time (fading or darkening). Therefore, when intending to preserve the information on the coloration of the lines of a chromatographic strip after inspection for a long period, especially when the test line has faded, the correct coloration information at the time of inspection may be lost. Additionally, as mentioned above, when intending to preserve the information on the coloration of the lines of a chromatographic strip after inspection for a long period, it is sometimes difficult to identify weaker test lines (lighter coloration) from the image obtained from photographing the chromatographic strip.

[0079] Thus, conventional techniques have the following problems: sometimes it is impossible to retain information from the chromatographic strips that can be identified and express information (e.g., information about which test line is colored) for an extended period. Furthermore, conventional techniques have the following problems: when reading the color of the lines on the chromatographic strips after inspection using the device, there are instances where the line coloring cannot be read correctly, and sometimes the judgment results cannot be correctly derived (resulting in incorrect judgments).

[0080] Therefore, the inventors have conducted repeated and in-depth research on automatic discrimination systems, which can store information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strips after inspection for a long time and can store it as unified information. Based on the information that can identify the expression information, the discrimination results in the chromatographic strips can be correctly derived. The research results are as follows.

[0081] That is, the inventors have discovered that, through the following automatic discrimination system, it is possible to store information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strip after inspection for a long period of time and to store it as unified information. Based on the information that can identify the expression information, the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip can be correctly derived. The automatic discrimination system has: an information storage unit that stores the detection result image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; and a discrimination result deriving unit that compares the image contained in the detection result image information with a data table and derives the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

[0082] First, in the information storage unit of the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the detection result image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support is stored. Furthermore, the chromatographic strip support has detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip. That is, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip is stored.

[0083] Here, the expression information obtained from the examined chromatographic strip may, for example, be information related to the biomolecules in the sample that are considered to be contained within the sample, corresponding to the position of the line coloring produced by the sample provided to the chromatographic strip during the examination using the chromatographic strip. In other words, the information related to the expression information obtained from the examined chromatographic strip may, for example, be information related to the detection items that produce line coloring during the examination using the chromatographic strip.

[0084] Furthermore, the image information of the detection result can be, for example, information obtained by transcribing the detection items (expression information) that produce such line coloring onto the chromatographic strip support as image information. Additionally, as the image information of the detection result obtained by transcribing expression information, information such as the information on which the operator reads the expression information from the inspected chromatographic strip and marks (applies marks) at the positions corresponding to the detection items on the chromatographic strip support where the expression information is obtained can be captured as image information.

[0085] Thus, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, since the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip is stored, even if the coloring of the lines in the chromatographic strip changes over time or the coloring of the lines is light, the detection result image information based on the expression information of the lines coloring can be converted into a marker and stored long-term as information that can identify the expression information.

[0086] That is, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, for example, the information used to identify (determine) the expressive information can be stored as detection result image information containing information represented by symbols, etc., so it can be stored as image information that does not change over time and can be stored for a long time. Even when the line color itself is weak (light), it can be in a state that is not easily affected by the lighting environment when read by an image sensor or the like, and the expressive information can be correctly identified (determined).

[0087] Furthermore, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, for example, it is possible to store the detection result image information transcribed in the desired form, and thus it is possible to store the information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strip after inspection as unified information.

[0088] Furthermore, in the information storage unit of the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the image contained in the detection result image information is compared with a data table, and the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table is derived. That is, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, for example, based on the data table that associates the information of the image containing the information obtained by transcribing the expression information with the discrimination result (inspection result) in the chromatographic strip, the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip after inspection is derived (determined).

[0089] Thus, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip is derived based on the detection result image information, which is converted into markers, etc., expressing information. Therefore, even when the line coloring itself is weak (light), the line coloring can be correctly read through the converted information, and the discrimination result (inspection result) in the chromatographic strip can be correctly derived.

[0090] Thus, the automatic discrimination system of the present invention has the aforementioned information storage unit and discrimination result export unit, thereby enabling long-term storage of information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strip after inspection and storing it as unified information. Based on the information that can identify the expression information, the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip can be correctly exported.

[0091] Therefore, by using the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, information related to the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip can be properly stored, and the results of the inspection using the chromatographic strip can be automatically and correctly exported and discriminated.

[0092] The following describes in detail the various units in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention.

[0093] The automatic discrimination system of the present invention includes an information storage unit and a discrimination result export unit, and preferably includes an information acquisition unit, with other units provided as needed. Furthermore, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, each unit can also be independent (separate from each other). When each unit is independent, for example, it is preferable to connect the units using a network such as an intranet or the Internet. In other words, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, it is preferable that the information storage unit and the discrimination result export unit are interconnected by a network.

[0094] <Information Storage Unit>

[0095] The information storage unit is a unit that stores the detection result image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support, which has the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip.

[0096] As an information storage unit, there are no special restrictions as long as it can store the detection result image information. It can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as using known computers, server devices, mobile terminals, etc.

[0097] <<Detection Result Image Information>>

[0098] As the image information of the test results stored by the information storage unit, there are no particular restrictions as long as it is image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip, and is image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support; it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. That is, the image information of the test results may include, for example, an image containing information about the transcribing of the expression information.

[0099] Here, as the image information of the detection result, as described above, for example, information that can be captured as image information is information that the operator reads the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip and marks (applies a mark) at the position in the chromatographic strip support corresponding to the detection item for which the expression information was obtained.

[0100] As for the information to be expressed, there are no particular limitations as long as it is related to the biomolecules found (detected) in the chromatographic strip examination, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the information to be expressed may, for example, be information related to the biomolecules contained in the sample, corresponding to the position of the line coloring produced by the sample provided to the chromatographic strip during the examination using the chromatographic strip (e.g., name, etc.). Moreover, the coloring produced by the sample provided to the chromatographic strip is not limited to line coloring; for example, it may be dotted coloring, circular coloring, or even decolorization (a reaction lighter than the reference color of the chromatographic strip).

[0101] As the image information of the detection result, for example, it can be information obtained by transcribing the expression information read by the operator in the marker area of ​​the chromatographic strip support through markings such as filling and checking (e.g., image information obtained by taking a picture of the marker area where the position (check mark) corresponding to the detection item for which the expression information is obtained is filled). In other words, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the detection result image information is preferably the marker information obtained by taking a picture of the marker area in the chromatographic strip support.

[0102] Thus, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, information representing expression information can be stored in a more readable and uniform form, and discrimination results (inspection results) in chromatographic strips can be exported more easily and accurately.

[0103] Furthermore, regarding the image information of the detection results, the method of marking (applying markings) the position in the chromatographic strip support corresponding to the detection item (expression information) for which expression information is obtained is not limited to filling or checking the check box of the above-mentioned identification card. There are no particular restrictions as long as a mark that can be identified by image processing can be applied, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.

[0104] <<Specimen Information>>

[0105] In the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the preferred information storage unit further stores the specimen-related information (scrutin information) provided to the chromatographic strip.

[0106] More specifically, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the preferred information storage unit stores the specimen information obtained from the chromatographic strip support, which also has specimen information provided to the chromatographic strip.

[0107] As for specimen information, there are no particular restrictions on any specimen-related information provided to the chromatographic strip, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, it can include information about the subject providing the specimen, the date of specimen collection, the hospital where the specimen was collected, etc. Information about the subject providing the specimen can include, for example, the subject's identification information (ID), date of birth, name, age, gender, blood type, and affiliation.

[0108] Specimen information may be, for example, information displayed (recorded) on the aforementioned chromatographic strip support. There are no particular limitations on the form in which specimen information is displayed (recorded) on the chromatographic strip support; it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as displaying it in text, in symbols, or in patterns.

[0109] Furthermore, regarding the specimen information, among the aforementioned display (recording) formats, it is preferable to display it using symbols or patterns; more specifically, for example, it is preferable to display it as code information represented by a combination of symbols or patterns. In other words, in this invention, the specimen information is preferably code information. Examples of code information include barcodes and QR codes (registered trademarks).

[0110] By using coded information for the sample, more sample information can be displayed even when the area for displaying sample information in the chromatographic strip support is limited. Furthermore, by using coded information for the sample, the sample information can be easily and accurately read using the imaging unit.

[0111] Alternatively, the sample information may be information not displayed (recorded) on the aforementioned chromatographic strip support, or more specifically, it may be displayed as readable electronic information. Examples of electronic information include RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags and IC (Integrated Circuit) tags. In this case, it is preferable that the electronic information is embedded in the chromatographic strip support.

[0112] By translating the sample information into electronic information, a greater amount of sample information can be displayed (read out) even when the area within the chromatographic strip support that can display the sample information is very limited. Furthermore, by translating the sample information into electronic information, the sample information can be repeatedly rewritten, allowing the chromatographic strip support to be reused after use.

[0113] In addition, the chromatographic strip support may also have information other than the aforementioned test result image information and sample information, such as product identification information and usage instructions. The display (recording) format of this information is the same as that of the sample information, for example, it may be displayed in text, symbols, or patterns. Alternatively, if this information is not displayed (recorded) on the chromatographic strip support, it may be displayed (read out) as electronic tag information, similar to the sample information.

[0114] In addition, the detection result image information and specimen information stored by the information storage unit and the chromatographic strip support are preferably information obtained by the information acquisition unit described later, but for example, it may also be information manually entered by the operator or information downloaded from other computers (other databases).

[0115] Here, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the preferred information storage unit stores the above-mentioned specimen information and the detection result image information in association (correspondingly). In the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the preferred information storage unit stores the specimen information and the detection result image information in association, and the specimen information is obtained from a chromatographic strip support that also provides specimen information to the chromatographic strip.

[0116] Thus, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the information of the specimen provided to the chromatographic strip and the expression information obtained from the examined chromatographic strip can be correlated and stored for a long time and stored as unified information, which can be used for automatic discrimination.

[0117] Furthermore, the preferred information storage unit stores the various information contained in the chromatographic strip support, such as the aforementioned specimen information and test result image information, into a database. Additionally, the preferred information storage unit can update the database with the aforementioned various information contained in the chromatographic strip support, such as the aforementioned specimen information and test result image information, at any time.

[0118] Furthermore, specific implementation methods for the chromatographic strip support, including the sample information and the information obtained by transcribing the expression information, will be described later.

[0119] <Discrimination Result Derivation Unit>

[0120] The discrimination result export unit is a unit that compares the image contained in the detection result image information with the data table and exports the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

[0121] As a discrimination unit, there are no special restrictions as long as the discrimination result can be derived. It can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as using well-known computers, server devices, mobile terminals, etc.

[0122] Here, as described above, the discrimination result export unit, for example, exports (determines) the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip after inspection based on a data table that associates information from an image containing information transcribed with expression information with the discrimination result (inspection result) in the chromatographic strip.

[0123] Here, the data table used for deriving the discrimination result is not particularly limited as long as it is a table that associates information from an image containing information transcribed with the expression information with the discrimination result (test result) in the chromatogram strip, and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the data table used for deriving the discrimination result can be a data table that can be used to correlate the information transcribed with the discrimination result in the chromatogram strip according to the configuration pattern of the image in the detection result image information.

[0124] More specifically, as a data table, for example, when the detection result image information is the identification card information obtained by photographing the identification card area in the chromatographic strip support, a data table can be used to correlate the judgment result (inspection result) corresponding to the marking pattern (which item is filled in the pattern) in the identification card information.

[0125] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the data table used to derive the discrimination results. The data table used to derive the discrimination results is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, for example, a data table containing the discrimination result ID, detection result image information, and discrimination result can be used. The data table used for deriving the discrimination result is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, for example, a data table can be used that records the discrimination result ID, the detection result image information, and the discrimination result in one record (row), and records information related to other discrimination results in each column (column).

[0126] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, for instance, in the record (row) with the discrimination result ID "P1", there is recorded image information indicating that items 2 and 3 were detected, and the corresponding discrimination result is "influenza virus". The discrimination result derivation unit, for example, through... Figure 2 The detection result image information in the data table and the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strips are subjected to image processing such as pattern matching, so as to derive the discrimination result contained in the data table and the image contained in the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strips.

[0127] Furthermore, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the preferred information storage unit stores the discrimination result derived by the discrimination result derivation unit in association with the specimen information and the detection result image information. In other words, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, for example, it is preferred to store the discrimination result derived based on the detection result image information in association (correspondingly) with the detection result image information and the specimen information.

[0128] Thus, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, the information of the specimen provided to the chromatographic strip, the information of the expression obtained from the examined chromatographic strip, and the discrimination result (examination result) in the examined chromatographic strip can be stored in a long-term manner in a mutually related manner and can be stored as unified information.

[0129] Furthermore, when the discrimination result corresponding to an image contained in the detection result image information is not included in the data table, the discrimination result derivation unit can also append the new discrimination result corresponding to the image to the data table along with the image. Moreover, when the discrimination result corresponding to an image contained in the detection result image information is not included in the data table, the discrimination result derivation unit can also infer and derive the discrimination result based on the discrimination results contained in the data table.

[0130] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates an example of a discrimination result table that can associate and store discrimination results with specimen information and detection result image information. As a discrimination result table, such as... Figure 3 As shown, for example, a table can be used that records sample (sample) ID, sample (sample) information, product name used, test result image information, expression information, and discrimination results. As a discrimination result table, such as... Figure 3 As shown, for example, it is possible to use a table that records the sample (sample) ID, sample (sample) information, product name used, test result image information, expression information and discrimination result in a record (row), and records information related to other discrimination results in each column (column).

[0131] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, for instance, in the record (row) with sample ID "S1", the image information of the detection result is read. In the chromatographic strips that have been checked, "+" indicates the detected items (the biomolecules found) and "-" indicates the undetected items, which are recorded in the column (column) of "expression information".

[0132] <Information Acquisition Unit>

[0133] An information acquisition unit is a unit that acquires at least one of the specimen information and the detection result image information.

[0134] As an information acquisition unit, there are no particular restrictions as long as it can acquire at least one of the specimen information and the detection result image information. It can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as listing the imaging unit, reader, etc.

[0135] Examples of devices that can be used for imaging include those with a camera (image sensor) and scanners. Examples of devices with a camera (image sensor) include smartphones, tablets, and personal computers (PCs).

[0136] As a reader, examples include barcode readers and QR code readers. Alternatively, a terminal device with an application installed that can read barcodes, QR codes, etc., can also be used as a reader.

[0137] Examples of electronic information readers include RFID readers and IC readers. Additionally, terminal devices equipped with applications capable of reading and / or writing RFID tags, IC tags, etc., can also be used as electronic information readers.

[0138] Furthermore, as an information acquisition unit, for example, an information acquisition unit for acquiring specimen information and an information acquisition unit for acquiring test result image information can be set separately. It is preferable to use an information acquisition unit that can acquire both specimen information and test result image information at the same time. As an information acquisition unit that can acquire both specimen information and test result image information at the same time, a terminal device such as the aforementioned smartphone can be appropriately used, for example.

[0139] Furthermore, when storing information acquired by the information acquisition unit in the information storage unit, it is preferable, for example, to send the information acquired by the information acquisition unit from the information acquisition unit to the information storage unit. In other words, in the automatic discrimination system of the present invention, it is preferable that the information storage unit and the information acquisition unit are communicatively connected.

[0140] There are no particular limitations on the method for sending specimen information and test result image information from the information acquisition unit to the information storage unit, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, the following method can be used: sending specimen information and test result image information from the information acquisition unit to the information storage unit via a network such as the Internet. Thus, in this invention, in terms of being able to communicate with the information storage unit, a terminal device such as a smartphone can also be appropriately used as the information acquisition unit.

[0141] Here, there are no particular limitations on the method by which the information acquisition unit acquires at least one of the chromatographic strip support, the specimen information, and the detection result image information, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. When the image acquisition unit is a shooting unit, for example, it is preferable to shoot an image of the entire chromatographic strip support, and determine and acquire the specimen information (e.g., code information) and the detection result image information (e.g., identification card information) contained in the shot image.

[0142] Furthermore, in cases where an image of the entire chromatographic strip support is captured, as in the example above, markings for determining the position and orientation are provided at predetermined locations on the chromatographic strip support. Based on these markings, the position and orientation of the chromatographic strip support in the captured image are determined and obtained, thereby improving the accuracy of obtaining this information. Additionally, if the planar shape of the chromatographic strip support is quadrilateral, it is preferable that the markings for determining the position and orientation of the chromatographic strip support are located at the four corners of the chromatographic strip support.

[0143] <Other Units>

[0144] As for other units, there are no particular restrictions, and they can be selected appropriately according to the purpose.

[0145] (Automatic identification method)

[0146] The automatic discrimination method of the present invention includes:

[0147] The information storage process stores the detection result image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support, which has the capability to transcrib the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; and

[0148] The discrimination result export process compares the images contained in the detection result image information with the data table and exports the discrimination results corresponding to the images contained in the data table.

[0149] The automatic discrimination method of the present invention can be implemented, for example, by the automatic discrimination system described above. Therefore, the preferred embodiment of the automatic discrimination method of the present invention can be the same as that of the automatic discrimination system described above.

[0150] (Automatic identification program)

[0151] The automatic discrimination program of the present invention enables a computer to perform the following processes: information storage processing, storing detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having detection result image information obtained by transcribing expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; and discrimination result export processing, comparing the image contained in the detection result image information with a data table, and exporting the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

[0152] The automatic discrimination program of the present invention can be, for example, a program for implementing the above-described automatic discrimination method by a computer. In other words, by executing the automatic discrimination program of the present invention by a computer, the computer can function as the above-described automatic discrimination system. Therefore, the preferred embodiment of the automatic discrimination program of the present invention can be the same as the above-described automatic discrimination system and automatic discrimination method.

[0153] The automatic discrimination program of this invention can be made using various programming languages, depending on the architecture of the computer and the type / version of the operating system.

[0154] The automatic discrimination program of this invention can also be recorded on storage media such as hard disks, or on storage media such as CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc-ROM), MO (Magneto-Optical) discs, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, SD (Secure Digital) cards, micro SD cards, compact flash memory (registered trademark), etc.

[0155] Alternatively, the automatic discrimination program of the present invention can be recorded in an external storage area (other computers, etc.) accessible from a computer via an information communication network. In this case, the automatic discrimination program of the present invention recorded in the external storage area can be installed on a hard disk from the external storage area via an information communication network as needed.

[0156] Furthermore, the automatic discrimination program of the present invention can also be segmented and recorded in multiple storage media according to each arbitrary process.

[0157] <Implementation Methods of Chromatographic Strip Support>

[0158] Hereinafter, embodiments of the chromatographic strip support that can be used in the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0159] <<First Implementation>>

[0160] use Figures 4 to 8C An example of the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment will be described.

[0161] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example shown, the chromatographic strip 15 has: a sample supply section 16 for supplying a sample, a membrane section 17 for developing the sample, and an absorbent pad section 18 for absorbing the sample. After the sample is supplied to the sample supply section 16 and developed using a developing solution, the biological components contained in the supplied sample can be detected by reading the color 19b (test line color development) that occurs when a specified biological component is present in the membrane section 17.

[0162] The coloring of the test lines in the chromatographic strips can be achieved using colloidal particles composed of metals such as gold, silver, copper, and platinum; colored latex obtained by coloring latex using pigments or dyes; or silica nanoparticles obtained by fixing pigment molecules inside silica particles. Among these, colored latex particles composed of colloidal gold particles (red) or water-dispersible polymers colored in blue, red, or other colors are preferred.

[0163] Examples of chromatographic strips include those used in immunochromatography and nucleic acid chromatography. Furthermore, lateral flow type chromatographic strips are preferred.

[0164] Chromatographic strips have no particular limitations and can be used for various detection purposes depending on the objective. For example, they can be appropriately used for the examination of infectious diseases, the detection of allergens in food, and the quality management of food (inspection of disguised foods, genetically modified foods, etc.), which require special accuracy in reading (discrimination accuracy) of the colored lines.

[0165] The chromatographic strip support 10 of the first embodiment has: as shown in the example Figure 4 , Figures 6 to 8C As shown, a continuous support surface 11 for the chromatographic strip 15 can be configured; as Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figures 7B to 8C As shown, the protrusion 13 is formed on the support surface 11; and as shown Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the display portion 14 is formed on the support surface 11.

[0166] From the perspective of preventing the infiltration of the specimen, the materials used for the support surface 11, the protrusion 13, and the display part 14 are preferably paper with a waterproof coating.

[0167] like Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 7B , Figures 8B to 8C As shown, the protrusion 13 has a first contact portion 12a that can abut against the front end 18a of one end side (absorption pad portion 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 disposed (placed) on the support surface 11.

[0168] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a display unit 14 when the aforementioned front end 18a of the chromatographic strip 15 is brought into contact with the aforementioned first contact portion 12a and the chromatographic strip 15 is placed on the support surface 11.

[0169] like Figure 5 As shown, the display unit 14 has a detection item 20a. In Figure 5 In the test, “M. peregrium” refers to a species belonging to the genus *M. peregrium*.

[0170] When a detection is observed at a specified position 19a in the chromatographic strip 15 (line coloring 19b), the detection item 20a is displayed at the same specified position 19b where the detection was observed.

[0171] As the chromatographic strip support 10 mentioned above, such as Figure 9AAs shown, it has a continuous support surface 11 for arranging chromatographic strips 15, and a bent portion 22 that is continuous with the support surface 11 via a bend 21.

[0172] The above-mentioned bent portion 22 is imaged. Figure 9B As shown, bend along the aforementioned curve 21, like Figure 9C When it comes into contact with the support surface 11 as shown, a protrusion 13 is formed having a first contact portion 12a that can come into contact with the front end 18a of one end side (absorption pad portion 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 disposed (placed) on the support surface 11, and is then fixed thereto.

[0173] The aforementioned bent portion 22 is fixed using an adhesive.

[0174] The following uses Figure 4 and Figure 5 The operation and function of chromatographic support components constructed as described above will be explained.

[0175] When the chromatographic strip 15 is disposed (placed) on the support surface 11 of the chromatographic strip support 10, as follows: Figure 4 As shown, the front end 18a of one end side (absorbent pad 18) of the chromatographic strip 15, opposite to the side where the sample supply section 16 is located, is brought into contact with the first contact portion 12a, thereby positioning (placing) the chromatographic strip 15 on the support surface. Thus, as... Figure 5 As shown, the detection item 20a in the display section 14 of the chromatographic strip support 10 is displayed at the same position as the detection (line coloring 19b) at the designated position 19a of the chromatographic strip 15, thus preventing reading errors (false detections) of line coloring caused by positional offset of the chromatographic strip 15.

[0176] The aforementioned protrusion 13 abuts only against the absorption pad portion 18 of the aforementioned chromatographic strip 15, and not against the membrane portion 17. Therefore, it does not obstruct the smooth development (flow) of the sample, allowing for accurate information expression (detection results; line coloring). Furthermore, the aforementioned absorption pad portion 18 is designed to prevent backflow of the sample, so even if it abuts against the aforementioned protrusion 13, it will not obstruct the development (flow) of the sample.

[0177] use Figures 10A to 10D An example of the method of using the chromatographic strip support of the first embodiment will be described.

[0178] like Figure 10A As shown, on the support surface 11 of the chromatographic strip support member 10, the front end 18a of the absorption pad portion 18 of the chromatographic strip 15 is placed on the support surface with the first contact portion 12a abutting against each other.

[0179] like Figure 10B As shown, the liquid sample 24 is added to the sample supply section 16 of the chromatographic strip 15 using the sample additive 23.

[0180] like Figure 10C As shown, the developing solution 25 is added to the sample supply section 16 of the chromatographic strip 15 using the sample additive 23, at a position closer to the front end of the sample supply section 16 than the position where the sample 24 was added. By adding the developing solution 25, the sample 24 and the developing solution 25 move along the membrane section 17. Figure 10C The membrane unfolds in the direction of the arrow. At this time, the side of the membrane 17 does not come into contact with any component, so it does not hinder the smooth unfolding of the specimen 24.

[0181] like Figure 10D As shown, when the sample 24 contains a specified biological molecule, a few minutes after the developing solution 25 is developed, the specified line color 19b is generated at a specified position on the membrane portion 17. Since the position of the generated line color 19b corresponds to the position of the detection item 20a displayed on the display portion 14 of the chromatographic strip support 10, it is possible to determine that the sample 24 contains a specified biological molecule.

[0182] In the first embodiment, a support surface 11 is formed Figure 3 The display section 14 shown can also be formed on the support surface 11, for example. Figure 11 The display unit 14 shown.

[0183] Figure 11 The display unit 14 shown displays multiple detection items 20a corresponding to multiple specified positions 19a in the chromatographic strip. Therefore, multiple expression information (detection results; line coloring) can be obtained in a single inspection. Furthermore, in Figure 11 In the test results, “M. peregrium”, “M. chelonae”, “M. fortuitum” and “M. abscessus / bolletii” refer to different species belonging to the genus Acid-fast Bacteria.

[0184] Here, according to Figures 2 to 11 In the first embodiment of the chromatographic strip support described herein, when obtaining detection result image information obtained by transcribing the detection item 20a (expression information) that has generated line coloring 19b, for example, by using circles to surround a predetermined position of the detection item 20a corresponding to the generated line coloring 19b (e.g., Figure 5 and Figure 11After the markings "C", "1", "2", "4", etc. of the detection item 20a in the image, the chromatographic strip support is photographed by the imaging unit, thereby obtaining the image information of the detection result.

[0185] In addition, Figure 11 In addition to the example shown, it is also possible to form, for example, the aforementioned support surface 11. Figure 12 The display unit 14 shown. Figure 12 The display unit 14 shown has the aforementioned detection item 20a, recording unit 20b, and auxiliary item 20c.

[0186] As for the aforementioned record section 20b, there are no particular restrictions, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as listing identification cards, check boxes, etc.

[0187] exist Figure 12 In the example shown, for instance, if a line color 19b is generated at the specified position 19a, the operator reads the line color 19b and records it in the recording section 20b of the inspection item 20a. When the operator reads the line color 19b and records it in the recording section 20b of the inspection item 20a, it is preferable for the operator to fill the recording section 20b.

[0188] There are no particular restrictions on the location of the recording section 20b, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, but it is preferred to be located adjacent to the detection item 20a.

[0189] As an auxiliary item 20c mentioned above, there are no particular restrictions, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as displaying the location of sample addition, the order of sample addition, and the amount of sample added. Figure 12 In this example, "△STEP1 Sample 5μL" shown as an auxiliary item means "First, add 5μL of sample (examine) to the position indicated by the △ mark (examine supply section of the chromatographic strip)". "△STEP2 Sample 70μL" shown as an auxiliary item means "Second, add 70μL of sample (developing solution) to the position indicated by the △ mark (examine supply section of the chromatographic strip)". Thus, with the above auxiliary item 20c, even a novice can use the chromatographic strip support.

[0190] Right now, Figure 12 The example shown is an example of information obtained by transcribing the test item 20a read by the operator using the filled marks in the identification card area of ​​the chromatographic strip support as test result image information (an example of test result image being identification card information), which may be a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0191] In the first embodiment, paper with a waterproof coating is used as the material for the support surface 11, the protrusion 13, and the display portion 14. However, as other examples, waterproof plastics, metals, or the like can be used. By using waterproof plastics, metals, or the like as the material, the infiltration of the sample can be further prevented.

[0192] Furthermore, adhesive labels containing specimen information can be affixed to the chromatographic strip support. This allows for the long-term, interconnected storage of specimen information and test result image information, and enables unified collection, storage, and automatic identification.

[0193] There are no particular restrictions on the types of labels that can be affixed; they can be selected appropriately depending on the purpose, such as barcodes, QR codes (registered trademarks), etc.

[0194] There are no particular limitations on the location for affixing the adhesive label; it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include the support surface 11, the protrusion 13, and the display portion 14. Among these structures, the protrusion 13 is preferred, and a location passing through one end of the protrusion 13 and the chromatographic strip support 10 is more preferred. This prevents the chromatographic strip 15 from falling off the chromatographic strip support 10.

[0195] In the first embodiment, the bent portion 22 is bent along the bending curve 21 so that it abuts against and is fixed to the support surface 11. However, as another example, the protrusion 13 may be stacked on the support surface 11 and fixed.

[0196] As for the aforementioned fixing methods, there are no particular restrictions as long as two or more boards can be joined together, and the appropriate method can be selected according to the purpose, such as fixing with adhesives.

[0197] In the first embodiment, the sample is supplied to the sample supply unit 16 after one end (absorption pad 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 is disposed (placed) on the protrusion 13 formed on the support surface 11 of the chromatographic strip support member 10. However, in a variation of the first embodiment, the sample may be supplied to the sample supply unit 16 before one end of the chromatographic strip 15 is disposed (placed) on the protrusion 13 formed on the support surface 11 of the chromatographic strip support member 10.

[0198] <<Second Implementation>>

[0199] use Figures 13 to 16C An example of the chromatographic strip support of the second embodiment will be described.

[0200] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used to mark the same structures as in the previously described embodiments, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0201] like Figures 13 to 16C As shown, the chromatographic strip support 10 of the second embodiment has: a continuous support surface 11 on which the chromatographic strip 15 can be arranged, a protrusion 13 formed on the support surface 11, and a display portion 14 formed on the support surface 11.

[0202] like Figures 13 to 16C As shown, the protrusion 13 in the second embodiment has: a first abutting portion 12a, which can abut against the front end 18a of one end side (absorption pad portion 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 disposed (placed) on the support surface 11; and a second abutting portion 12b, which can abut against at least a portion of the side side 18b of one end side (absorption pad portion 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 that is parallel to the length direction of the chromatographic strip 15.

[0203] When the chromatographic strip 15 is positioned (placed) on the support surface 11, the front end 18a of one end side (absorbent pad 18) of the chromatographic strip 15, opposite to the side where the sample supply part 16 is located, abuts against the first contact part 12a, and at least a portion of the side side 18b of the chromatographic strip 15 parallel to the length direction abuts against the second contact part 12b. This positions the chromatographic strip 15 on the support surface. This prevents errors in reading the information (detection results; line coloring) caused by positional misalignment of the chromatographic strip 15.

[0204] As the chromatographic strip support 10 of the second embodiment described above, such as Figure 14 As shown, when viewed from above the support surface 11, it is preferable that the first abutting portion 12a and the second abutting portion 12b in the protrusion 13 are arranged in a mutually orthogonal position. Furthermore, when viewed from above the support surface 11, it is preferable that one end of the first abutting portion 12a and one end of the second abutting portion 12b are in contact with each other.

[0205] <<Third Implementation Method>>

[0206] use Figures 17 to 22 An example of a chromatographic strip support according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0207] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, for structures that are the same as those in the already described embodiments, the same reference numerals are used and their descriptions are omitted.

[0208] like Figure 17As shown in FIG19C, the chromatographic strip support 10 of the third embodiment has: a continuous support surface 11 on which the chromatographic strip 15 can be arranged, a protrusion 13 formed on the support surface 11, and a display portion 14 formed on the support surface 11.

[0209] like Figure 17 As shown, the protrusion 13 in the third embodiment has: a first abutting portion 12a, which can abut against the front end 18a of one end side (absorption pad portion 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 disposed (placed) on the support surface 11; and a pair of second abutting portions 12b, which can abut against at least a portion of one end side (absorption pad portion 18) of the chromatographic strip 15, and a pair of side surfaces 18b of the chromatographic strip 15 parallel to the length direction.

[0210] When the chromatographic strip 15 is positioned (placed) on the support surface 11, the front end 18a of one end side (absorbent pad 18) of the chromatographic strip 15 opposite to the side where the sample supply part 16 is located abuts against the first abutment part 12a, and at least a portion of the pair of side surfaces 18b of the chromatographic strip 15 parallel to the length direction abuts against the pair of second abutment parts 12b. This positions the chromatographic strip 15 on the support surface. This further prevents errors in reading the expressed information (detection results; line coloring) due to positional misalignment of the chromatographic strip 15.

[0211] Figure 21 This is a top view showing an example of the display format of various information possessed by the chromatographic strip support of the third embodiment.

[0212] like Figure 21 As shown, the chromatographic strip support in the third embodiment includes, for example, an information transcribing unit 30, a product identification information display unit 31, and an information acquisition assistance identification unit 32.

[0213] The information transfer section (identification card area) 30 is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose; for example, it can be an identification card, a checkbox, etc. In the information transfer section 30, for example, the operator can read the line coloring and transfer (record) it. When the operator reads the line coloring and transfers it to the information transfer section 30, it is preferable for the operator to fill in the checkboxes of the information transfer section 30. Alternatively, when the operator reads the line coloring and transfers it to the information transfer section 30, symbols such as "+" and "-", or text, can also be used to transfer it to the information transfer section 30.

[0214] As a product identification information display unit 31, there are no particular limitations, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, for example... Figure 21As shown, QR codes (registered trademarks) can be used. For example, it is preferable to record the identification information (ID, etc.) of the chromatography strip support on the product identification information display unit 31. Alternatively, the identification information of the chromatography strip support can be selected from the user's terminal device, for example.

[0215] As an information acquisition auxiliary marking unit 32, when acquiring information by capturing an image of the entire chromatographic strip support through an information acquisition unit such as an imaging unit, there are no particular restrictions as long as it can be used as a marking for determining the position and orientation of the chromatographic strip support; it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. In the case of... Figure 21 As shown in the example, when the planar shape of the chromatographic strip support is quadrilateral, it is preferable that the information acquisition auxiliary marking part 32 is provided at the four corners of the chromatographic strip support.

[0216] Figure 22 This is another example of a top view showing the display format of various information possessed by the chromatographic strip support of the third embodiment.

[0217] Figure 22 The chromatographic strip support shown in the third embodiment and Figure 21 Unlike the example shown, it also has a specimen information display unit 33.

[0218] As for the specimen information display unit 33, there are no particular limitations, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, for example... Figure 22 As shown, barcodes and the like can be used. In the specimen information display unit 33, for example, as specimen information, information such as the subject providing the specimen, the date of specimen collection, and the hospital where the specimen was collected can be recorded.

[0219] Alternatively, the specimen information display unit 33 may be attached to the chromatographic strip support by the subject (patient) providing the specimen or the examiner (nurse, etc.). In this case, the specimen information display unit 33 may preferably be an adhesive sheet printed with a barcode.

[0220] Shooting is performed using information acquisition units such as the shooting unit. Figure 22 When information is obtained by displaying an image of the entire chromatographic strip support and stored by the information storage unit, for example, information related to the detection result transfer unit 30, the product identification information display unit 31, and the specimen information display unit 33 may be selected and stored, or the image of the entire chromatographic strip support may be stored as is.

[0221] <Implementation Method of Automatic Discrimination System>

[0222] Hereinafter, embodiments of the automatic discrimination system of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0223] Figure 23 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0224] like Figure 23 As shown, the automatic discrimination system 100 includes an information storage unit 200, a discrimination result export unit 300, and terminal devices 400a, 400b, 400c, ... In the automatic discrimination system 100, the information storage unit 200 and the discrimination result export unit 300 are communicatively connected. In the automatic discrimination system 100, the terminal devices 400a, 400b, 400c, ... are communicatively connected to the information storage unit 200 via a network 500.

[0225] In addition, terminal devices 400a, 400b, 400c, ... have an imaging unit as an example of an information acquisition unit, which can acquire information from chromatographic strip supports 10a, 10b, 10c, ...

[0226] Furthermore, the terminal devices 400a, 400b, 400c, ... have the same device structure, and are collectively referred to as "terminal device 400" below.

[0227] Figure 24 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0228] like Figure 24 As shown, the information storage unit 200 of the automatic discrimination system 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a main storage device 202, an auxiliary storage device 203, a communication interface 204, an input device 205, and an output device 206. They are connected to each other via a bus 207.

[0229] CPU 201 is a processing device that performs various controls and calculations. CPU 201 performs various functions by executing programs loaded into main memory 202, etc. That is, CPU 201 executes various programs (e.g., automatic discrimination programs) in automatic discrimination system 100.

[0230] Furthermore, the CPU 201 can control the overall operation of the information storage unit 200 in the automatic discrimination system 100. In addition, in this embodiment, the device for controlling the overall operation of the information storage unit 200 in the automatic discrimination system 100 is set as the CPU 201, but it is not limited to this. For example, it can also be an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0231] The main storage device 202 stores various programs and the data required to execute these programs.

[0232] The main storage device 202 has, for example, at least one of ROM and RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0233] ROMs can store various programs, such as BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) and the automatic discrimination program of this invention. There are no particular limitations on the type of ROM; it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Examples include mask ROMs and PROMs (Programmable ROMs).

[0234] RAM functions as the operating scope of various programs stored in ROM, auxiliary storage devices, etc., when executed by the CPU 201. There are no particular limitations on RAM; it can be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Examples include DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory).

[0235] As an auxiliary storage device 203, there are no particular limitations as long as it can store various types of information, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose, such as solid-state drives (SSDs), hard disk drives (HDDs), etc. In addition, the auxiliary storage device 203 can also be a CD drive, DVD drive, BD (Blu-ray Disc) drive, or other removable storage devices.

[0236] There are no particular limitations on the communication interface 204; any known communication interface can be appropriately used, such as wireless (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.) or wired communication devices. The information storage unit 200, for example, uses the communication interface 204 to communicate with the user's terminal (terminal device 400) via the network 500 to collect detection result image information.

[0237] As an input device 205, there are no particular restrictions as long as it can accept various requests and information input to the information storage unit 200, and any known input device can be used appropriately, such as a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, microphone, etc. In addition, if the input device 205 is a touch panel (touch display), the input device 205 can also serve as an output device 206.

[0238] There are no particular limitations on the output device 206, and any known output device, such as a display, can be appropriately used. Examples of displays used as output device 206 include liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic EL (Electroluminescence) displays.

[0239] The discrimination result export unit 300 in the automatic discrimination system 100 includes a CPU 301, a main storage device 302, an auxiliary storage device 303, a communication interface 304, an input device 305, and an output device 306. They are connected via a bus 307.

[0240] Each element in the discrimination result derivation unit 300 can use the same elements as those in the information storage unit 200 described above.

[0241] The terminal device 400 in the automatic discrimination system 100 has at least a communication interface 404, an input device 405, an output device 406, and an information acquisition unit 408. They are connected to each other via a bus 407. As a terminal device 400, for example, a smartphone, tablet terminal, personal computer (PC), etc. can be used.

[0242] In addition, as an information acquisition unit 408, an imaging unit (camera, etc.) can be used, for example.

[0243] Furthermore, details regarding the terminal device will be explained later.

[0244] In addition, the automatic discrimination system 100 can also be part of a cloud of computer groups on a network.

[0245] Figure 25 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of an information storage unit in an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0246] like Figure 25 As shown, the information storage unit 200 in the automatic discrimination system 100 includes a communication unit 210, a storage unit 220, a control unit 230, an input unit 240, and an output unit 250.

[0247] In the information storage unit 200, for example, the communication unit 210 is implemented through the communication interface 204, the storage unit 220 is implemented through the main storage device 202 and the auxiliary storage device 203, the control unit 230 is implemented through the CPU 201 and the main storage device 202, the input unit 240 is implemented through the input device 205, and the output unit 250 is implemented through the output device 206.

[0248] The communication unit 210 can send and receive various data with external devices (e.g., terminal device 400). In the information storage unit 200, for example, detection result image information can be obtained by communicating with the terminal device 400 via the network 500 using the communication unit 210.

[0249] Storage unit 220 stores, for example, various programs and data. In addition, storage unit 220 has a detection result image information database (DB) 221, a data table 221, and a judgment result database (DB) 222.

[0250] As for the detection result image information DB221, there are no particular restrictions as long as it is a database that can store the detection result image information obtained by the terminal device 400, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.

[0251] As for data table 222, there are no particular restrictions as long as it is a data table that associates information from an image containing transcribing expression information with the discrimination results (examination results) in the chromatogram strips. It can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, it is possible to use... Figure 2 The data table shown.

[0252] As for the discrimination result DB223, there are no particular restrictions as long as it is a discrimination result DB that can be stored in association with the discrimination result exported by the discrimination result export unit 300 and the specimen information and detection result image information. It can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. For example, it is possible to use a discrimination result DB with... Figure 3 The discrimination result table shown contains the discrimination result DB.

[0253] In addition, in this embodiment, the information storage unit 300 can also be implemented by using a region on a cloud server.

[0254] The control unit 230 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 220, and controls the overall operation of the information storage unit 200.

[0255] The input unit 240, for example, receives various instructions for the information storage unit 200.

[0256] The output unit 250 outputs and displays various information, for example.

[0257] Figure 26 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a discrimination result deriving unit in an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0258] like Figure 26 As shown, the discrimination result derivation unit 300 includes a communication unit 310, a storage unit 320, a control unit 330, an input unit 340, and an output unit 350.

[0259] The communication unit 310, control unit 330, input unit 340, and output unit 350 in the discrimination result derivation unit 300 can be the same as the communication unit 210, control unit 230, input unit 240, and output unit 250 in the information storage unit 200.

[0260] The discrimination result export unit 300, for example, uses the detection result image information DB221 and the data in the data table 222 stored by the information storage unit 200 to compare the image contained in the detection result image information with the data table 222, export the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table 222, and record (store) the discrimination result in the discrimination result DB223.

[0261] Figure 27 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a terminal device in an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of a terminal device in an automatic discrimination system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0262] Reference Figure 27 and 28 To explain in more detail Figure 24 The terminal device 400 shown.

[0263] like Figure 27 As shown, the terminal device 400 includes a CPU 401, a main storage device 402, an auxiliary storage device 403, a communication interface 404, an input device 405, an output device 406, and an information acquisition unit 408. They are connected via a bus 407.

[0264] The CPU 401, main storage device 402, auxiliary storage device 403, communication interface 404, input device 405, and output device 406 in the terminal device 400 can be the same as the CPU 201, main storage device 202, auxiliary storage device 203, communication interface 204, input device 205, and output device 206 in the information storage unit 200.

[0265] Terminal device 400 can communicate with information storage unit 200 via network 500 through communication interface 404, and can send detection result image information to information storage unit 200.

[0266] Furthermore, the information acquisition unit 408 in the terminal device 400 can be, for example, a camera or other imaging unit. By capturing images of the chromatographic strip support 10 using the information acquisition unit 408 in the terminal device 400, information such as detection result image information can be obtained.

[0267] In addition, such as Figure 28As shown, the terminal device 400 in the automatic discrimination system 100 includes a communication unit 410, a storage unit 420, a control unit 430, an input unit 440, an output unit 450, and an information acquisition unit 460.

[0268] The communication unit 410, storage unit 420, control unit 430, input unit 440, and output unit 450 in the terminal device 400 can be the same as the communication unit 210, storage unit 220, control unit 230, input unit 240, and output unit 250 in the information storage unit 200.

[0269] The information acquisition unit 460 in the terminal device 400 captures images of the chromatographic strip support 10 and acquires information such as detection result image information. The function of the information acquisition unit 460 is implemented by the information acquisition unit 408.

[0270] In addition, Figures 23 to 28 The invention describes the separate configuration of the information storage unit 200 and the judgment result export unit 300, but the invention is not limited thereto. For example, the information storage unit 200 and the judgment result export unit 300 can also be integrated (e.g., implemented by a server device).

[0271] Figure 29 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process of automatically judging a chromatographic strip after inspection using the automatic discrimination system of the present invention. Here, according to Figure 29 The steps represented by S in the flowchart shown herein illustrate the process of automatically identifying the inspected chromatographic strips using the automatic discrimination system of the present invention.

[0272] First, in step S101, a specimen information display unit is installed on the chromatography strip support. More specifically, in step S101, for example, the subject providing the specimen attaches an adhesive sheet to the chromatography strip support. This adhesive sheet is an adhesive sheet with specimen information containing the subject's own specimen information printed in the form of a barcode.

[0273] Next, in step S102, the test strip is positioned on the chromatographic strip support. More specifically, for example, the test strip is positioned (configured) at a predetermined location on the chromatographic strip support by an operator performing the inspection.

[0274] Next, in step S103, after adding the sample to the test strip, developing solvent is added to perform a strip-based inspection. More specifically, in step S103, for example, the operator performing the inspection adds developing solvent after providing the sample to the test strip, thereby developing the sample to a predetermined position on the test strip for strip-based inspection. Furthermore, here, an example is shown where the strip-based inspection is performed after the test strip is positioned on the strip support; however, for example, after developing the sample to a predetermined position on the test strip and performing strip-based inspection, the inspected strip can also be positioned on the strip support.

[0275] Next, in step S104, the operator reads the line coloring of the test strip to determine the expressive information. More specifically, in step S104, for example, if line coloring occurs at a specified position on the test strip, the operator reads the line coloring (by visual observation), determines the detection item corresponding to the position of the line coloring, and determines the expressive information.

[0276] Furthermore, in step S105, the expression information read by the operator is transferred to the chromatographic strip support. More specifically, in step S105, for example, the operator performing the inspection will transfer the expression information determined by line coloring in S104 to the identification card area in the chromatographic strip support. In step S105, the expression information is preferably transferred, for example, by the operator filling in the checkboxes in the identification card area.

[0277] Next, in step S106, the detection result image information and specimen information obtained by transcribing the expression information are acquired by the information acquisition unit. More specifically, in step S106, for example, the chromatographic strip support is photographed by the imaging unit, which is the information acquisition unit, thereby acquiring the detection result image information and specimen information.

[0278] Next, in step S107, the detection result image information and the specimen information obtained by the information acquisition unit are associated and stored in the information storage unit. More specifically, in step S107, for example, the detection result image information and the specimen information are sent from the information acquisition unit to the information storage unit, and the information storage unit stores them in a data table that associates the detection result image information and the specimen information.

[0279] Next, in step S108, the image contained in the detection result image information is compared with the data table to derive the discrimination result corresponding to the image. More specifically, in step S108, for example, using the detection result image information and data in the data table stored by the information storage unit, the image contained in the detection result image information is compared with the data table to derive the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

[0280] Furthermore, in step S109, if the exported discrimination result is stored in association with the specimen information and the detection result image information, the process ends. More specifically, in step S109, for example, if the discrimination result exported in S108 is stored in the information storage unit by a data table that associates the detection result image information and the specimen information, the process ends.

[0281] Furthermore, this section explains the basis for... Figure 29 The flowchart shown executes the steps in a predetermined order, but the present invention is not limited to this order. Figure 29 The sequential execution of the processes shown in the flowchart can be appropriately changed within the scope of technical inconsistencies, and multiple processes can also be performed simultaneously.

[0282] As described above, the automatic discrimination system of the present invention comprises: an information storage unit that stores detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having detection result image information obtained by transcribing expression information obtained from an inspected chromatographic strip; and a discrimination result export unit that compares the image contained in the detection result image information with a data table and exports the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table.

[0283] Thus, the automatic discrimination system of the present invention can store information that can identify the expression information in the chromatographic strip after inspection for a long time and can store it as unified information. Based on the information that can identify the expression information, the discrimination result in the chromatographic strip can be correctly derived.

[0284] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0285] 10…Chromatographic strip support; 11…Support surface; 12a…First contact part; 12b…Second contact part; 13…Protrusion; 14…Display part; 15…Chromatographic strip; 16…Specimen supply part; 17…Membrane part; 18…Absorbent pad part; 18a…Front end; 18b…Side; 19a…Specified position; 19b…Line coloring; 20a…Detection item; 20b…Recording part; 20c…Auxiliary item; 21…Fold curve; 22…Folded part; 30…Information transfer part (identification card area); 31…Product identification information display part; 32…Information acquisition auxiliary identification part; 33…Specimen information display part; 100…Automatic discrimination system; 200…Information storage unit; 300…Discrimination result export unit; 400…Terminal device; 500…Network.

Claims

1. An automatic discrimination system, characterized in that, have: An information storage unit stores detection result image information obtained from a chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; as well as The discrimination result export unit compares the image contained in the detection result image information with the data table, and exports the discrimination result corresponding to the image contained in the data table. The chromatographic strip support has a separately set chromatographic strip configuration area and a marking and recording area. The chromatographic strip configuration area is used to configure the chromatographic strip, and the marking and recording area is a region marked by the user based on the expression information on the chromatographic strip.

2. The automatic discrimination system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The information storage unit stores the specimen information in association with the detection result image information. The specimen information is obtained from the chromatographic strip support, and the chromatographic strip support also provides the specimen information to the chromatographic strip.

3. The automatic discrimination system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The information storage unit stores the discrimination result exported by the discrimination result export unit in association with the specimen information and the detection result image information.

4. The automatic discrimination system according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that, The specimen information is code information, and the detection result image information is identification card information.

5. The automatic discrimination system according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that, The automatic discrimination system also has an information acquisition unit, which acquires at least one of the specimen information and the detection result image information.

6. The automatic discrimination system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The information acquisition unit is a shooting unit.

7. An automatic discrimination method, characterized in that, Include: The information storage process stores the detection result image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support, which has the capability to transcrib the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; as well as The discrimination result export process involves comparing the images contained in the detection result image information with a data table, and exporting the discrimination results corresponding to the images contained in the data table. The chromatographic strip support has a separately set chromatographic strip configuration area and a marking and recording area. The chromatographic strip configuration area is used to configure the chromatographic strip, and the marking and recording area is a region marked by the user based on the expression information on the chromatographic strip.

8. An automatic discrimination program, characterized in that, The computer will perform the following processing: Information storage and processing, storing the detection result image information obtained from the chromatographic strip support, the chromatographic strip support having the detection result image information obtained by transcribing the expression information obtained from the inspected chromatographic strip; as well as The discrimination result export process involves comparing the images contained in the detection result image information with a data table, and exporting the discrimination results corresponding to the images contained in the data table. The chromatographic strip support has a separately set chromatographic strip configuration area and a marking and recording area. The chromatographic strip configuration area is used to configure the chromatographic strip, and the marking and recording area is a region marked by the user based on the expression information on the chromatographic strip.

Images