Camera-Based Pulse Oximeter Data Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pulse oximeters require testing to ensure proper operation, but direct data collection methods can interfere with the measurements, and there is a need to monitor and log medical device operations without physical contact.
Innovation Solution
A camera captures images of the pulse oximeter's display during simulated or actual data reception, converting them into data for storage and analysis, allowing non-invasive testing and logging of the device's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If direct data collection methods are used to test pulse oximeters, then testing and logging capability is improved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to interference with actual values
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a visual copy of the pulse oximeter's display output through camera imaging. Instead of directly accessing or contacting the pulse oximeter's internal data elements, the system captures images of the display screen showing the physiological measurements. This optical copy allows for data collection and testing without physically interfering with the pulse oximeter's measurement process, thus preserving measurement accuracy while enabling testing and logging functionality.
2Ease of operation
If physical contact with pulse oximeter elements is made for data collection, then data access is improved, but device operation reliability deteriorates due to potential corruption of measured values
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary optical path between the pulse oximeter display and the data collection system. A camera captures images of the display screen, and image processing software extracts data from these visual representations. This intermediary approach allows data access without direct physical contact with the pulse oximeter's internal elements, preventing potential corruption of measured values while maintaining ease of data access through automated image analysis.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If visual detection method is used to capture display information, then non-invasive testing is improved, but data collection speed deteriorates due to image processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing display information at optimized intervals and pre-processing images before full analysis. The camera is positioned and focused in advance on the pulse oximeter display, and image capture timing is synchronized with the display refresh rate. This preliminary setup and timing optimization reduces the overall processing time required while maintaining the non-invasive nature of visual detection, thereby improving data collection speed without compromising the harm-free testing approach.
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
Enables effective testing and logging of pulse oximeters without interfering with the measured values, ensuring proper operation and monitoring capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A camera may be utilized to capture still or video images of the monitor
Implementation Method 2
Pulse oximeters typically utilize a non-invasive sensor that transmits light through a patient's tissue and that photoelectrically detects the absorption and/or scattering of the transmitted light in such tissue
Implementation Method 3
transmits light through a patient's tissue and that photoelectrically detects the absorption and/or scattering of the transmitted light
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for generating results indicative of physiological parameters of a patient and for capturing the results. The capture of the results may include recordation of the results through the use of a camera, while the physiological parameters may be generated through monitoring of a patient or by simulating such monitoring.