Automated Parasite Analysis System Using Computer Vision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual counting of parasites in biological samples is unpleasant and prone to errors, posing challenges in evaluating the efficacy of treatments for parasitic infections in livestock.
Innovation Solution
An automated parasite analysis system that uses a pressure vessel, imaging cell, and camera to capture images of the sample, with computer vision analyzing the images to estimate the number of parasites, thereby reducing human exposure and error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual counting of parasites is performed by humans, then the counting process can be completed, but it is unpleasant for the human operator and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical counting process with an automated image analysis system using computer vision algorithms. The system captures images of the sample and automatically identifies and counts parasites, eliminating human exposure to hazardous samples while maintaining or improving counting accuracy through consistent algorithmic application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates visual copies (images) of the parasite sample and performs counting operations on these copies rather than directly manipulating or observing the original hazardous sample. This allows accurate measurement without human exposure to the actual biological hazard.
2Productivity
If manual counting is used to evaluate treatment efficacy, then treatment results can be assessed, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The automated image analysis system replaces manual counting operations with computer vision algorithms that process multiple images simultaneously. This substitution dramatically increases productivity by evaluating treatment efficacy across numerous samples in parallel while ensuring consistent application of counting criteria through algorithmic uniformity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous automated counting operations without the interruptions, fatigue, or variability inherent in manual processes. The computer vision system maintains consistent performance across extended periods, providing reliable and repeatable treatment evaluation results.
Data Source
AI summary
A parasite analysis system includes a pressure vessel configured to store a biological sample, an imaging cell connected to the pressure vessel, and a waste depository connected to the imaging cell. An input valve controls whether biological sample can flow from the pressure vessel into the imaging cell and an output valve controls whether biological sample can flow from the imaging cell into the waste depository. The parasite analysis system also includes a camera that captures a chronological set of images of a portion of the biological sample in the imaging cell and an image analysis system that analyzes the chronological set of images to generate an estimate of a number of parasites in the portion of the biological sample. Estimates for multiple portions of the biological sample may be generated and sampling techniques used to estimate the number of parasites in the entire biological sample.