Visual Inspection System for Medical Devices

Abstract

A visual inspection system (600) for a syringe (502), the system including an image capture device (104), a structure configured to hold a tube of the syringe (502) for inspection, and at least one processor (102) capable of causing an image of the tube to be captured via the image capture device when the tube is placed within the structure, the image including an image of a flange (510) of the tube superimposed on a background (404), the background including white and black. The processor may determine a diameter of the flange of the tube and provide data associated with the diameter of the flange of the tube.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Machine vision (MV) may refer to technology used to provide imaging-based automated inspection and / or analysis for industrial applications, such as automated inspection, process control, and / or robotic guidance. [Background technology]

[0002] Machine vision may include functions in industrial automation environments, but also in other environments, such as security and vehicle guidance. The overall machine vision process may include planning the details of the project requirements and then creating a solution. During runtime, the machine vision process may start with an imaging process, followed by an automatic analysis of the image, and then the extraction of the required information from the automatic analysis.

[0003] However, in certain circumstances, the imaging process may not be able to provide a viable image from which to extract information. For example, an image of a medical device such as a syringe or other container may include a background that does not allow for accurate detection of certain aspects of the medical device from the image. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Thus, improved systems, devices, articles of manufacture, apparatus, and / or methods for inspecting flanges and / or inner diameters of medical devices are provided.

[0005] Further non-limiting embodiments or aspects are described in the following numbered clauses:

[0006] Clause 1: A method for inspecting an aspect of a medical device, the method comprising: capturing, using at least one processor, an image of a tube via an image capture device, the image including an image of a flange of the tube superimposed on a background, the background including a first color and a second color; determining, using the at least one processor, a measurement value of an attribute of the flange of the tube; and providing, using the at least one processor, data associated with the measurement value of the attribute of the flange of the tube.

[0007] Clause 2: The method of clause 1, further comprising the step of performing an edge detection procedure on the image of the tube flange to provide a defined edge of the tube flange, and the step of determining measurements of attributes of the tube flange comprises the step of determining measurements of attributes of the tube flange based on the defined edge of the tube flange.

[0008] Clause 3: The method of clause 1 or 2, further comprising disposing a tube within the structure, wherein a surface of the structure comprises a first color and a second color.

[0009] Clause 4: The method of any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the structure comprises a first component and a second component, and the structure is configured to hold the tube between the first component and the second component.

[0010] Clause 5: The method of any one of clauses 1 to 4, further comprising illuminating the tube with light via at least one light source prior to capturing an image of the tube via the image capture device, the at least one light source including a spotlight and a ring light.

[0011] Clause 6: The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the first color of the background is white and the second color of the background is black.

[0012] Clause 7: The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the tube is a syringe.

[0013] Clause 8: A system for inspecting an aspect of a medical device, the system comprising: a structure configured to hold a tube for inspection; and at least one processor, the system being programmed or configured to: capture an image of the tube via an image capture device when the tube is placed within the structure, the image including an image of a flange of the tube superimposed on a background, the background including a first color and a second color; determine measurements of an attribute of the flange of the tube; and provide data associated with the measurements of the attribute of the flange of the tube.

[0014] Clause 9: The system of clause 8, further comprising at least one light source, the at least one light source configured to illuminate the flange of the tube.

[0015] Clause 10: The system of clause 8 or 9, wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to perform an edge detection procedure on the image of the tube flange to provide a defined edge of the tube flange, and when determining the measurements of the attributes of the tube flange, the at least one processor is programmed or configured to determine the measurements of the attributes of the tube flange based on the defined edge of the tube flange.

[0016] Clause 11: The system of any one of clauses 8 to 10, further comprising a tube disposed within the structure, wherein a surface of the structure comprises a first color and a second color.

[0017] Clause 12: A system described in any one of clauses 8 to 11, wherein the structure comprises a first component and a second component, the structure being configured to hold a tube between the first component and the second component.

[0018] Clause 13: The system of any one of clauses 8 to 12, wherein the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to illuminate the tube with light via at least one light source prior to capturing an image of the tube via the image capture device, the at least one light source including a spotlight and a ring light.

[0019] Clause 14: The system of any one of clauses 8 to 13, wherein the first color of the background is white and the second color of the background is black.

[0020] Clause 15: A system described in any one of clauses 8 to 14, wherein the tube is a syringe.

[0021] Clause 16: A system for inspecting an aspect of a medical device, the system comprising: a structure configured to hold the medical device for inspection; an image capture device; and at least one processor, the at least one processor programmed or configured to: capture an image of the tube via the image capture device when the tube is placed within the structure, the image including an image of a flange of the tube superimposed on a background, the background including a first color and a second color; determine measurements of an attribute of the flange of the tube; and provide data associated with the measurements of the attribute of the flange of the tube.

[0022] Clause 17: The system described in clause 16, wherein the image capture device is positioned to capture an image of the tube when the flange of the tube is illuminated via at least one light source, the at least one light source including a spotlight and a ring light.

[0023] Clause 18: The system of clause 16 or 17, further comprising a tube disposed within the structure, wherein a surface of the structure comprises a first color and a second color.

[0024] Clause 19: A system described in any one of clauses 16 to 18, wherein the structure comprises a first component and a second component, the structure being configured to hold a tube between the first component and the second component.

[0025] Clause 20: The system of any one of clauses 16 to 19, wherein the first color of the background is white and the second color of the background is black. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0026] Further advantages and details are explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an environment in which the methods and / or systems described herein may be implemented in accordance with the principles of the presently disclosed subject matter. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of components of one or more devices and / or one or more systems of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flow chart of a non-limiting embodiment of a process for visually inspecting a medical device. [Figure 4A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a structure for an inspection system. [Figure 4B] FIG. 2 is a front view of a non-limiting embodiment of a structure for an inspection system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of a medical device used in an inspection system. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of an implementation of an inspection system. [Figure 6B] FIG. 2 is a non-limiting embodiment of another implementation of an inspection system. [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of a captured image of an inspection system. [Figure 7B] FIG. 2 illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of a captured image of an inspection system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] It is to be understood that the present disclosure may contemplate various alternative variations and step sequences unless expressly specified otherwise. Also, it is to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary and non-limiting embodiments or aspects. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

[0029] For purposes of the following description, the terms "end", "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal", and their derivatives shall refer to the embodiment or aspect as they are oriented in the drawings. However, it should be understood that the embodiment or aspect may assume various alternative variations and step sequences unless expressly specified otherwise. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely non-limiting, exemplary embodiments or aspects. Thus, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics associated with the embodiments or aspects disclosed herein should not be considered limiting unless otherwise indicated.

[0030] As used herein, aspects, components, elements, structures, acts, steps, functions, instructions, and the like should not be construed as critical or essential unless expressly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" and "at least one." As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In addition, and further as used herein, the terms "set" and "group" are intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, combinations of related and unrelated items, etc.) and may be used interchangeably with "one or more" or "at least one." When only one item is intended, the term "a" or similar language is used. Also, terms such as "has," "have," "having," and the like, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended terms. Additionally, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on," unless otherwise specified. Additionally, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on," unless otherwise specified. Additionally, the phrase "based on" means "in response to" and may indicate a condition for automatically triggering a specified operation of an electronic device (e.g., a controller, a processor, a computing device, etc.) as appropriately referred to herein.

[0031] As used herein, the terms "communication" and "communicating" may refer to receiving, receiving, sending, transferring, providing, etc., information (e.g., data, signals, messages, instructions, commands, etc.). One unit (e.g., a device, a system, a component of a device or system, combinations thereof, etc.) communicating with another unit means that one unit can directly or indirectly receive information from the other unit and / or send (e.g., transmit) information to the other unit. This may refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection that is wired and / or wireless in nature. Furthermore, two units may be in communication with each other even if the information transmitted may be modified, processed, relayed, and / or routed between the first unit and the second unit. For example, a first unit may be in communication with a second unit even if the first unit passively receives information and does not actively transmit information to the second unit. As another example, a first unit may be in communication with a second unit if at least one intermediate unit (e.g., a third unit located between the first unit and the second unit) processes information received from the first unit and transmits the processed information to the second unit. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a message may refer to a network packet (e.g., a data packet, etc.) that includes data.

[0032] Some non-limiting embodiments or aspects may be described herein in relation to a threshold value. As used herein, meeting a threshold may refer to a value being greater than the threshold, more than the threshold, higher than the threshold, equal to or greater than the threshold, less than the threshold, less than the threshold, lower than the threshold, less than or equal to the threshold, equal to the threshold, etc.

[0033] Improved devices, systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for inspecting a flange and / or inner diameter of a medical device.Embodiments of the present disclosure may include an inspection system including a structure, an image capture device, and at least one processor in communication with the image capture device, the at least one processor being programmed or configured to: capture an image of a tube via the image capture device when the tube is placed within the structure, the image including an image of the flange of the tube superimposed on a background, the background including a first color and a second color; determine measurements of an attribute of the flange of the tube; and provide data associated with the measurements of the attribute of the flange of the tube.In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a surface of the structure may include the first color and the second color.

[0034] In some non-limiting embodiments, the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to perform an edge detection procedure on the image of the tube flange to provide a defined edge of the tube flange, and determining the measurements of the attributes of the tube flange includes determining the measurements of the attributes of the tube flange based on the defined edge of the tube flange. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the at least one processor is further programmed or configured to illuminate the tube with light via the at least one light source, the at least one light source including a spot light and a ring light, prior to capturing the image of the tube via the image capture device.

[0035] In this manner, embodiments of the present disclosure enable an inspection system that can accurately detect certain aspects of a medical device, such as a tube, syringe, etc., from an image. For example, the inspection system may be able to determine the presence of defects and / or more accurately detect the inner diameter of the medical device to ensure proper inspection of the medical device.

[0036]

[0023] Referring now to Figure 1, Figure 1 is an illustration of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of an environment 100 in which methods and / or systems described herein may be implemented. As shown in Figure 1, the environment 100 may include an inspection system 102, an image capture device 104, and a light source 106. The inspection system 102, the image capture device 104, and the light source 106 may be interconnected (e.g., establish a connection to communicate, etc.) via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may include one or more of the image capture device 104 and / or the light source 106.

[0037] In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may include one or more devices capable of receiving information from and / or communicating information to the image capture device 104 and / or the light source 106. For example, the inspection system 102 may include a computing device, such as a processor, a server, a group of servers, and / or other similar devices. The inspection system 102 may be capable of sending signals to the image capture device 104 and / or the light source 106, and the inspection system 102 may be capable of receiving data and / or signals from the image capture device 104 and / or the light source 106.

[0038] In some non-limiting embodiments, the image capture device 104 may include a camera. The image capture device 104 may be capable of capturing static and / or dynamic pictures (e.g., video). In some non-limiting embodiments, the image capture device 104 may be capable of receiving information from and / or communicating information to the inspection system 102. For example, the image capture device 104 may be capable of receiving signals from and / or sending signals and / or data to the inspection system 102.

[0039] In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may include a spotlight and / or a ring light. The light source 106 may be adjusted such that the light source 106 may illuminate one or more portions of the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be capable of receiving information from the inspection system 102 and / or communicating information to the inspection system 104. For example, the light source 106 may be capable of receiving signals from the inspection system 102 and / or may be capable of sending signals and / or data to the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may include one or more light sources (e.g., one or more spotlights and / or one or more ring lights).

[0040] 2, which is a diagram of example components of a device 200. The device 200 may correspond to the inspection system 102, the image capture device 104, the light source 106, and / or one or more components of the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102, the image capture device 104, and / or the light source 106 may include at least one of the device 200 and / or at least one component of the device 200. As shown in FIG. 2, the device 200 may include a bus 202, a processor 204, a memory 206, a storage component 208, an input component 210, an output component 212, and a communication interface 214.

[0041] The bus 202 may include components that enable communication between the components of the device 200. In some non-limiting embodiments, the processor 204 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, the processor 204 may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), etc.), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and / or any processing component that may be programmed to perform a function (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.). The memory 206 may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc.) that stores information and / or instructions for use by the processor 204.

[0042] The storage component 208 may store information and / or software related to the operation and use of the device 200. For example, the storage component 208 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a solid-state disk, etc.), a compact disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and / or another type of computer-readable medium along with a corresponding drive.

[0043] Input components 210 may include components that enable device 200 to receive information via user input (e.g., a touchscreen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, buttons, switches, a microphone, a camera, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, input components 210 may include sensors for sensing information (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS) component, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an actuator, etc.). Output components 212 may include components that provide output information from device 200 (e.g., a display, a speaker, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), etc.).

[0044] The communications interface 214 may include transceiver-like components (e.g., a transceiver, a separate receiver and transmitter, etc.) that enable the device 200 to communicate with other devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. The communications interface 214 may enable the device 200 to receive information from another device and / or provide information to another device. For example, the communications interface 214 may include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency (RF) interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Wi-Fi interface, a Bluetooth interface, a Zigbee interface, a cellular network interface, etc.

[0045] Device 200 may perform one or more processes described herein. Device 200 may perform these processes based on processor 204 executing software instructions stored by a computer-readable medium, such as memory 206 and / or storage component 208. Computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media) are defined herein as non-transitory memory devices. A non-transitory memory device includes a memory space located within a single physical storage device or a memory space distributed across multiple physical storage devices.

[0046] Software instructions may be loaded into memory 206 and / or storage component 208 from another computer-readable medium or from another device via communications interface 214. The software instructions stored in memory 206 and / or storage component 208, when executed, may cause processor 204 to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Thus, embodiments or aspects described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0047] The memory 206 and / or the storage component 208 may include a data store or one or more data structures (e.g., a database, etc.). The device 200 may be capable of receiving information from, storing information in, communicating information to, or retrieving information stored in the data store or one or more data structures in the memory 206 and / or the storage component 208. For example, the information may include input data, output data, image data, measurement data, or any combination thereof.

[0048] The number and arrangement of components shown in Figure 2 are provided as an example. In some non-limiting embodiments, device 200 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components compared to those shown in Figure 2. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of device 200 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of device 200.

[0049] 3, which is a flowchart of a non-limiting embodiment or aspect of a process 300 for inspecting an aspect of a medical device. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the functions described with respect to process 300 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, one or more of the steps of process 300 may be performed (e.g., fully, partially, etc.) by another device or group of devices separate from and / or including inspection system 102, such as image capture device 104 and / or light source 106.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3, in step 302, the process 300 may include capturing an image. For example, the inspection system 102 may capture an image using the image capture device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments, the image associated with the image capture device 104 may include an image of a flange of a tube (e.g., a syringe) superimposed on a background. In some non-limiting embodiments, the image associated with the image capture device 104 may include an axial (e.g., cross-sectional) view of the tube superimposed on a background. In some non-limiting embodiments, the background may include a first color and a second color. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first color may be white and the second color may be black.

[0051] In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may store images as image data determined (e.g., measured, detected, sensed, acquired, etc.) by the inspection system 102 during operation of the inspection system 102.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 3, at step 304, the process 300 may include determining measurements. For example, the inspection system 102 may determine a measurement associated with a flange of the tube based on an image captured by the image capture device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may determine a measurement of an attribute of the flange of the tube. For example, the inspection system 102 may determine a measurement of an inside diameter of the flange of the tube. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may determine a measurement of an attribute of the tube. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may perform an inspection on the tube after the tube is placed within a structure, where a surface of the structure includes a first color and a second color.

[0053] In some non-limiting embodiments, determining the measurement of the attribute of the tube flange may include determining the measurement of the attribute of the tube flange based on a defined edge of the tube flange.

[0054] In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may determine measurements associated with the flanges of the tube by analyzing images and / or image data captured by the image capture device 104.

[0055] 3, in step 306, the process 300 may include providing data. For example, the inspection system 102 may provide data associated with measurements of attributes of the tube flange. In some non-limiting embodiments, the data associated with the measurements of the attributes may include an inner diameter value of the tube flange.

[0056] In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may illuminate the tube with light via at least one light source (e.g., light source 106) prior to capturing an image of the tube via the image capture device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments, the at least one light source may include a spot light and / or a ring light. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may include one or more light sources (e.g., one or more spot lights and / or one or more ring lights).

[0057] 4A and 4B, which show a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a structure and a front view of a non-limiting embodiment of a structure for the inspection system 102. The inspection system 102 can include a structure according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] 4A, which is a perspective view of a non-limiting embodiment of a structure 400 for an inspection system. As shown in FIG. 4A, the structure 400 can include at least two support blocks 402. In some non-limiting embodiments, the structure 400 can be configured to hold a tube between a first support block 402 and a second support block 402.

[0059] In some non-limiting embodiments, the support block 402 can include a front surface 404, a back surface 406, a first side 408, a second side 410, a top surface 412, a bottom surface 414, perforations 416, notches 418, fastener holes 420, through holes 422, a first color 424, and a second color 426. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first portion of the support block 402 can include the first color 424 and the second portion of the support block 402 can include the second color 426.

[0060] In some non-limiting embodiments, the front surface 404 can include a first color 424 and a second color 426. In some non-limiting embodiments, the front surface 404 can be the background in an image of the flange superimposed on the background. In some non-limiting embodiments, the back surface 406 and the top surface 412 can include a first color 424 and a second color 426. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first side 408, the second side 410, and the bottom surface can include the second color 426. In some non-limiting embodiments, the front surface 404 can include a length equal to 30 millimeters (mm) and a width equal to 16.3 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the front surface 404 can include a length up to 16 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the back surface 406 can include a length equal to the length of the front surface 404 and a width equal to the width of the front surface 404.

[0061] In some non-limiting embodiments, first side 408 can include a length equal to 16.3 mm and a width equal to 16 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, first side 408 can include a length up to 18 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, second side 410 can include a length equal to the length of first side 408 and a width equal to the width of first side 408.

[0062] In some non-limiting embodiments, the top surface 412 can include one or more perforations 416 and a notch 418. In some non-limiting embodiments, the perforations 416 can be configured to receive a fastener. In some non-limiting embodiments, the notch 418 can include a cylindrical notch, a semi-cylindrical notch, a square notch, or another shape such that the notch 418 can be configured to receive a tube or other object disposed within a space defined by the notch 418. In some non-limiting embodiments, the notch 418 can include a diameter equal to 8.26 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the notch 418 can extend from the front surface 404 to the back surface 406. In some non-limiting embodiments, the cutouts 418 can receive a tube when the at least one first cutout 418 merges with the at least one second cutout 418 when the two support blocks 402 are brought together such that the top surfaces 412 of each support block 402 contact one another. In some non-limiting embodiments, the cutouts 418 can include a through hole 422. In some non-limiting embodiments, the cutouts 418 can include a first color 424.

[0063] In some non-limiting embodiments, the top surface 412 can include a length equal to 30 mm and a width equal to 16 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the bottom surface 414 can include a length equal to the length of the top surface 412 and a width equal to the width of the top surface 412.

[0064] In some non-limiting embodiments, the bottom surface 414 can include one or more fastener holes 420 and through holes 422. In some non-limiting embodiments, the fastener holes 420 can be configured to receive fasteners. In some non-limiting embodiments, the through holes 422 can extend from the top surface 412 through the support block 402 to the bottom surface 414.

[0065] In some non-limiting embodiments, the perforation 416 can include a first hole including a first diameter and a bore including a bore depth and a bore diameter. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first hole can include a first diameter equal to 3.4 millimeters (mm). In some non-limiting embodiments, the bore can include a bore depth equal to 3.4 mm and a bore diameter equal to 6.5 mm.

[0066] In some non-limiting embodiments, the fastener hole 420 can include a countersink equal to 90 degrees and having a depth of 1 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the fastener hole 420 can include a first hole section including a depth equal to 7.3 mm and a diameter equal to 2.4 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the fastener hole 420 can include a second hole section including a depth between 3 mm and 4.48 mm. The depth of the second hole section can be measured from the deepest point of the first hole section. For example, the fastener hole 420 can have an overall depth of 10.3 mm to 11.8 mm. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second hole section can be threaded to receive a threaded fastener.

[0067] In some non-limiting embodiments, the through hole 422 can include an overall depth equal to the length of the support block 402 (e.g., the length of the front surface 404, the back surface 406, the first side 408, and / or the second side 410). In some non-limiting embodiments, the through hole 422 can include a diameter of 3.5 mm.

[0068] In some non-limiting embodiments, the perforations 416 can be located along the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412, 414 of the support block 402. Alternatively, the perforations 416 can be located offset from the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412, 414. For example, if the length of the top and bottom surfaces 412, 414 is 16 mm (e.g., the centerline of the width is located 8 mm from the edge of the top and bottom surfaces 412, 414), the perforations 416 can be located 12 mm away from the edge of the front surface 404 and 4 mm away from the edge of the back surface 406. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first support block 402 can have perforations 416 offset from the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412, 414 and the second support block 402 can have perforations 416 located along the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412, 414.

[0069] In some non-limiting embodiments, the bottom surface 414 can include one fastener hole 420. In some non-limiting embodiments, the fastener hole 420 can be located along the centerline of the width of the top surface 412 and bottom surface 414 of the support block 402. Alternatively, the fastener hole 420 can be located offset from the centerline of the width of the top surface 412 and bottom surface 414. For example, if the length of the top surface 412 and bottom surface 414 is 16 mm (e.g., the centerline of the width is located 8 mm from the edge of the top surface 412 and bottom surface 414), the fastener hole 420 can be located 12 mm away from the edge of the front surface 404 and 4 mm away from the edge of the back surface 406. In some non-limiting embodiments, an additional fastener hole can be located 12 mm away from the edge of the bottom surface 414 and 4 mm away from the edge of the top surface 412. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first support block 402 can have fastener holes 420 offset from the centerline of the width of the top surface 412 and the bottom surface 414, and the second support block 402 can have fastener holes 420 located along the centerline of the width of the top surface 412 and the bottom surface 414.

[0070] In some non-limiting embodiments, the through holes 422 can be located along the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412 and 414 of the support block 402. Alternatively, the through holes 422 can be offset from the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412 and 414. For example, if the length of the top and bottom surfaces 412 and 414 is 16 mm (e.g., the centerline of the width is located 8 mm from the edge of the top and bottom surfaces 412 and 414), the through holes 422 can be located 12 mm away from the edge of the front surface 404 and 4 mm away from the edge of the back surface 406. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first support block 402 can have the through holes 422 offset from the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412 and 414, and the second support block 402 can have the through holes 422 located along the centerline of the width of the top and bottom surfaces 412 and 414.

[0071] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first color 424 can include white and / or a light color (e.g., off-white, yellow, tan, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments, the first portion of the support block 402 that includes the first color 424 can be smaller (e.g., smaller area, smaller volume, etc.) than the second portion of the support block 402 that includes the second color 426. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first portion of the support block 402 that includes the first color 424 can be made from polyoxymethylene (POM).

[0072] In some non-limiting embodiments, the first color 424 may cover a surface area of ​​the cutout 418. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first color 424 may extend beyond the area of ​​the cutout 418 to form a linear area that is rectangular in shape on the top surface 412 adjacent the surface area of ​​the cutout 418, and the first color 424 may extend beyond the area of ​​the cutout 418 to form radial areas that are circular in shape on the front surface 404 and back surface 406. For example, the first color 424 may extend 4.9 mm onto the top surface 412 beyond the area of ​​the cutout 418 on each side of the area of ​​the cutout 418 to form a rectangular area of ​​the first color 424 on the top surface 412. The first color 424 may extend radially 4.9 mm on the front surface 404 and back surface 406 beyond the area of ​​the cutout 418 to form a radial (e.g., circular, annular, etc.) area of ​​the first color 424 on the front surface 404 and back surface 406.

[0073] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second color 426 can include black and / or a dark color (e.g., dark blue, dark brown, etc.). In some non-limiting embodiments, the second portion of the support block 402 that includes the second color 426 can be larger (e.g., larger area, larger volume, etc.) than the first portion of the support block 402 that includes the first color 424. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second portion of the support block 402 that includes the second color 426 can be made from POM.

[0074] 4B, which is a front view of a non-limiting embodiment of a structure 400 for an inspection system. As shown in FIG. 4B, the structure 400 can include at least two support blocks 402. In some non-limiting embodiments, the support block 402 can include a front surface 404, a first side 408, a second side 410, a top surface 412, a bottom surface 414, perforations 416, notches 418, fastener holes 420, through holes 422, a first color 424, and a second color 426. In some non-limiting embodiments, a first portion of the support block 402 can include the first color 424 and a second portion of the support block 402 can include the second color 426.

[0075] As further shown in Figure 4B, the respective top surfaces 414 of each support block 402 are brought together such that the top surfaces 412 of each support block 402 contact one another. When the first top surface 412 of each support block 402 contacts the second top surface 412, as shown in Figure 4B, the notches 418 merge with one another to form an opening that may be configured to receive a tube. In some non-limiting embodiments, a front view of the structure 400 (e.g., the front surface(s) 404) may be the background in an image of the flange, and the flange is superimposed on the background.

[0076]

[0036] Referring now to Figure 5, Figure 5 is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of a medical device 500. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the medical device 500 may include a tube 502, an elastomeric stopper 504, a distal end 506, a proximal end 508, and a flange 510. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the tube 502 may include a barrel of a syringe, or the like. The tube 502 may be made of glass and / or plastic (e.g., glass and / or plastic suitable for medical use). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the elastomeric stopper 504 may be made of an elastomeric material and may be adapted to be connected to the medical device 500 (e.g., connected to a plunger rod of the medical device 500, or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the distal end 506 may be adapted to be connected to another medical device (e.g., a needle, a cap, a catheter, stacked needles, or the like). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the proximal end 508 can include a flange 510 and can be configured to receive the elastomeric stopper 504 .

[0077] 6A, which is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of an implementation 600 of the inspection system 102. As shown in FIG. 6A, the implementation 600 may include the inspection system 102, the image capture device 104, the light source 106, the support block 402, and the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the support block 402 may include fastener holes 420. In some non-limiting embodiments, the fastener holes 420 may be used to attach the support block 402.

[0078] In some non-limiting embodiments, the support block 402 can be configured such that the support block 402 can support the tube 502 for inspection. In some non-limiting embodiments, the tube 502 can include a portion of the medical device 500 (e.g., the barrel of a syringe). The tube 502 can include at least one flange 510. The inspection system 102 can inspect the flange 510 of the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the tube 502 can be disposed within the support block 402. In some non-limiting embodiments, the front surface 404 of the support block 402 can include a first color 424 and a second color 426.

[0079] The light source 106 may be positioned such that the light source 106 may illuminate the flange 510 of the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be integrated with the image capture device 104 and / or the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be separate from the image capture device 104 and / or the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be positioned between the image capture device 104 and the tube 502 such that the light source 106 may illuminate the flange 510 of the tube 502 without obstructing the line of sight from the image capture device 104 to the tube 502.

[0080] 6B, which is a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of another implementation 610 of the inspection system 102. As shown in FIG. 6B, the implementation 610 may include the inspection system 102, the image capture device 104, the light source 106, the support block 402, and the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may include one or more of the image capture device 104, the light source 106, the support block 402, and / or the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the implementation 610 may include a lens disposed between the image capture device 104 and the light source 106.

[0081] In some non-limiting embodiments, the support block 402 can be configured such that the support block 402 can support the tube 502 for inspection. In some non-limiting embodiments, the tube 502 can include a portion of the medical device 500 (e.g., the barrel of a syringe). The tube 502 can include at least one flange 510. The inspection system 102 can inspect the flange 510 of the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the tube 502 can be disposed within the support block 402. In some non-limiting embodiments, the front surface 404 of the support block 402 can include a first color 424 and a second color 426.

[0082] The light source 106 may be positioned such that the light source 106 may illuminate the flange 510 of the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be integrated with the image capture device 104 and / or the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be separate from the image capture device 104 and / or the inspection system 102. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be positioned between the image capture device 104 and the tube 502 such that the light source 106 may illuminate the flange 510 of the tube 502 without obstructing the line of sight from the image capture device 104 to the tube 502. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may be positioned coaxially with the image capture device 104. In some non-limiting embodiments, the light source 106 may share a line of sight with the image capture device 104 and may be positioned toward the tube 502 in the same direction as the image capture device 104.

[0083] With respect to each of Figures 7A and 7B, as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, illustrations of non-limiting embodiments of captured images of an inspection system show, in Figure 7A, a tube superimposed on a different background, and in Figure 7B, an axial view (e.g., a cross-sectional view) of a tube superimposed on a background on which measurements of attributes of the tube's flanges are determined.

[0084] 7A, a diagram of a non-limiting embodiment of a comparison of images 700 is shown. The comparison of images 700 includes a first captured image 702 and a second captured image 704. The first captured image 702 may include a background that is one color. As shown in FIG. 7A, the first captured image 702 includes a tube superimposed on a completely white background. In this manner, the second captured image 704 may include a greater amount of contrast compared to the first captured image 702, which allows an inspection system (e.g., inspection system 102) to more easily and accurately determine measurements of attributes of the tube, such as the diameter of the tube flange. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second captured image 704 may represent an image that may be captured by an inspection system according to non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0085] In some non-limiting embodiments, the second captured image 704 may include a tube superimposed on a background. In some non-limiting embodiments, the background of the second captured image 704 may include a first color 708 and a second color 710. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first color 708 may include white and the second color 710 may include black. As shown in the second captured image 704 of FIG. 7A, the first color 708 may surround the tube in the second captured image 704 and the second color 710 may surround the first color 708. As shown in the second captured image 704 of FIG. 7A, the first color 708 may form an annular and / or circular region around the tube. It should be understood that the shape formed by the first color 708 in the second captured image 704 may include any shape where the first color 708 surrounds the tube and the second color 710 surrounds the first color 708.

[0086] As further shown in the second captured image 704 of FIG. 7A , the inspection system 102 may capture a second captured image 704. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second captured image 704 may include a first color 708 and a second color 710. In some non-limiting embodiments, the second captured image 704 may display an edge 706 of an inner diameter of a flange of the tube in the second captured image 704. In some non-limiting embodiments, the edge 706 may be more clearly visible in the second captured image 704 as compared to the edge of the inner diameter of the flange of the tube in the first captured image 702.

[0087] 7B, which is a close-up view of a non-limiting embodiment of a second captured image 704 of an inspection system (e.g., inspection system 102) from a comparison of images 700. As shown in FIG. 7B, the second captured image 704 may include a first color 708 and an edge 706. In some non-limiting embodiments, the inspection system 102 may perform an edge detection procedure on the second captured image 704 of the tube flange to provide a defined edge of the tube flange. For example, the inspection system 102 may perform the edge detection procedure on the second captured image 704 by determining a measurement of an attribute of the tube flange, such as a measurement of a diameter (e.g., inner diameter or outer diameter) of the tube flange based on the edge 706.

[0088] Although embodiments or aspects have been described in detail for purposes of illustration and description, it should be understood that such details are for that purpose only and that the embodiments or aspects are not limited to the disclosed embodiments or aspects, but on the contrary are intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment or aspect can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment or aspect. Indeed, many of these features can be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed herein. Although each dependent claim listed below may depend directly on only one claim, the disclosure of possible implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with all other claims in the set of claims.

Claims

1. 1. A method for inspecting an aspect of a medical device, comprising: causing, with at least one processor, to capture an image of a tube of a syringe via an image capture device, the image including an image of a flange of the tube of the syringe superimposed on a background, the background including a first color and a second color, the first color of the background being white and the second color of the background being black; performing an edge detection procedure on the image of the flange of the tube; determining, with at least one processor, a measurement of a diameter of the flange of the tube based on the edge detection procedure performed on the image of the flange of the tube; providing, with at least one processor, data associated with the measurements of the diameters of the flanges of the tubes; A method comprising:

2. Executing the edge detection procedure on the image of the flange of the tube comprises: performing the edge detection procedure on the image of the flange of the tube to provide a defined edge of the flange of the tube; The step of determining the measurement of the diameter of the flange of the tube comprises: determining the measurement of the diameter of the flange of the tube based on the defined edge of the flange of the tube. The method of claim 1.

3. The method further includes disposing the tube within a structure, the surface of the structure including the first color and the second color. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The structure includes a first component and a second component, the structure being configured to hold the tube between the first component and the second component. The method according to claim 3.

5. and illuminating the tube with light via at least one light source prior to capturing the image of the tube via an image capture device, the at least one light source including a spotlight and a ring light. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. 1. A system for inspecting an aspect of a medical device, comprising: a structure configured to hold a tube for inspection; At least one processor, capturing an image of a tube of a syringe via an image capture device when the tube is placed within the structure, the image including an image of a flange of the tube of the syringe superimposed on a background, the background including a first color and a second color, the first color of the background being white and the second color of the background being black; performing an edge detection procedure on the image of the flange of the tube; determining a diameter measurement of the flange of the tube based on the edge detection procedure performed on the image of the flange of the tube; providing data associated with the measurement of the diameter of the flange of the tube; At least one processor programmed or configured to: A system comprising:

7. and at least one light source configured to illuminate the flange of the tube. The system of claim 6.

8. When performing the edge detection procedure on the image of the flange of the tube, the at least one processor: and further programmed or configured to perform the edge detection procedure on the image of the flange of the tube to provide a defined edge of the flange of the tube; When determining the measurement of the diameter of the flange of the tube, the at least one processor: and determining the measurement of the diameter of the flange of the tube based on the defined edge of the flange of the tube.

8. A system according to claim 6 or 7.

9. a tube disposed within the structure, the surface of the structure including the first color and the second color; A system according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

10. The structure includes a first component and a second component, the structure being configured to hold the tube between the first component and the second component. A system according to any one of claims 6 to 9.

11. The at least one processor and further programmed or configured to illuminate the tube with light via the at least one light source prior to capturing the image of the tube via an image capture device, the at least one light source including a spotlight and a ring light. The system of claim 7.

Images