AR Microscope Viewing With Protocol Overlay for IVF Error Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Laboratory workers in IVF procedures face fatigue from prolonged microscope use and the risk of human error due to complex protocols and specimen identification challenges.

Innovation Solution

Augmented reality glasses connected to a computer, capable of projecting images of specimens and protocols onto the lenses, preventing interference with natural vision and reducing fatigue, while also using barcode scanning to ensure accurate specimen identification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a microscope eyepiece is used for viewing specimens, then the user can observe specimens in detail, but the user experiences fatigue after prolonged use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespecimen observation detailVSAvoiduser fatigue
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces augmented reality glasses as an intermediary device between the microscope and the user's eyes. The glasses receive video signals from the microscope camera and project them onto transparent displays in front of the user's eyes, allowing detailed specimen observation without direct eyepiece contact and reducing fatigue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical optical system of microscope eyepieces with an electronic display system. Instead of using optical lenses and eyepieces, the system uses cameras to capture images and augmented reality displays to present them, eliminating the need for prolonged eyepiece viewing and associated fatigue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If complex protocols and multiple specimens are handled, then comprehensive IVF procedures can be performed, but human error increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocedure comprehensivenessVSAvoidspecimen identification accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the augmented reality glasses provide real-time visual feedback to the user. Barcode scanning results, specimen identification information, and protocol checklists are displayed directly in the user's field of view, allowing immediate verification and correction of actions to prevent errors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses barcode scanning to create digital copies of specimen identification information. Instead of manually tracking multiple specimens and protocols, the system scans barcodes to automatically capture and display specimen data, reducing manual errors in specimen identification and tracking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Device complexity

If traditional microscope viewing is used, then no additional equipment is needed, but the user cannot simultaneously view protocols and specimens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequipment simplicityVSAvoidprotocol following convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the specimen viewing function and protocol viewing function into a single augmented reality display. The glasses simultaneously present video feeds from the microscope and digital protocol checklists in the user's field of view, allowing both tasks to be performed without switching between separate devices or screens.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10993793B2System and method for following and conducting laboratory procedures
Publication Date: 2021.05.04 SHEENA HAIM
  • US10993793B2 patent drawing
  • US10993793B2 patent drawing
  • US10993793B2 patent drawing

AI summary

There is provided a system and method for following and conducting laboratory procedures for preventing errors and fatigue of the user. The system involves input means, such as a microscope, and a camera connected to the input means, while the camera creates images of the input means. A computer is connected to the camera, and it processes the images so that augmented reality glasses which are also connected to the computer, are capable of having those images projected thereon. The computer also has laboratory protocol files installed thereon, and it projects images of the protocols onto the glasses. The projected images do not interfere with a user's natural vision.