Blood Sample Analyzer Coagulation Detection via Luminance Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood sample analyzing systems face challenges in accurately determining blood coagulation, as existing methods require manual intervention and are prone to errors due to variations in blood volume and coagulation protrusion, leading to inefficiencies and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A blood sample analyzing system that includes a sample check unit with cameras and a tilting mechanism, which images the blood sample in both vertical and tilted positions, uses image processing to detect blood volume and coagulation by analyzing B and R/B luminance ratios, and controls the transport and aspiration of samples based on coagulation status to optimize analysis efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual inspection of blood collection tubes is performed to detect coagulation, then coagulated samples can be identified and removed, but operator time and effort are required and productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting coagulation status through image processing without requiring operator intervention. The apparatus autonomously images blood collection tubes, processes images to detect coagulation, and identifies coagulated samples, eliminating the need for manual inspection while maintaining high detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection with an automated imaging and image processing system. Instead of operators visually examining blood samples, the system uses cameras to capture images and automated algorithms to detect coagulation based on image analysis, thereby increasing productivity while preserving detection accuracy
2Extent of automation
If area difference method is used to determine coagulation by comparing vertical and tilted images, then automated detection is achieved, but accuracy varies depending on blood volume and protrusion conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from area difference to luminance ratio analysis. Instead of comparing areas in vertical and tilted images, the system calculates luminance ratios (B value and R/B luminance ratio) of blood portions in images, which provides more accurate coagulation detection that is not affected by blood volume variations or coagulation protrusion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes color/luminance characteristics of blood to detect coagulation. By analyzing the B value (blue channel luminance) and R/B luminance ratio (red to blue channel ratio) in captured images, the system detects changes in blood optical properties that indicate coagulation, achieving high accuracy automated detection
3Productivity
If blood collection tubes are transported on a transport line, then automated sample handling is achieved, but coagulated tubes clog the nozzle and require manual removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting coagulation status before samples are aspirated by the analyzing operation module. The system images and analyzes blood collection tubes on the transport line, identifies coagulated samples in advance, and flags them for exclusion, preventing nozzle clogging and ensuring continuous transport line operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring blood collection tubes on the transport line through imaging and image processing. The detected coagulation status feeds back to the system control, which automatically excludes coagulated samples from analysis, ensuring reliable continuous operation of the transport line and analyzing module
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides accurate and efficient determination of blood coagulation, reducing manual intervention and improving analysis throughput by automatically distinguishing coagulated samples and directing them appropriately within the analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
a camera (225a, 225b) for imaging the sample container (8)
Implementation Method 2
a sample container tilting mechanism (224) for tilting the sample container (8) taken out from the sample rack (9)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention is to present a blood sample analyzing apparatus, comprising: an aspirator for aspirating a blood sample to be used for measurement; a coagulation determiner for determining whether the blood sample is coagulated or not; and an aspirating controller for controlling an operation of the aspirator based on a determination result by the coagulation determiner.