Colorimetric Test Strip Reader With Interference Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional test strip readers are highly subjective and prone to errors due to variations in sample volume, reaction time, and light sources, and are not sensitive enough to detect small color variations, resulting in limited detection ranges and frequent false readings.
Innovation Solution
A method and reader system that uses select spectrums of light to illuminate test strips, captures digital images, and analyzes color intensity against calibration curves to determine analyte concentrations, with interference correction for substances affecting measurements, employing machine-learning processes and calibration pads with color reference patches to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional test strip readers use standard light sources and simple color detection, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and reliability are poor due to subjectivity and sensitivity to variations in sample volume, reaction time, and light sources
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calibration by capturing images of calibration pads with known chromaticity values before measuring test strips. This pre-established reference data is stored and used to normalize subsequent measurements, compensating for variations in light sources, cameras, and environmental conditions without requiring complex real-time adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from calibration pad measurements to continuously adjust and normalize test strip readings. The calibration process establishes a reference framework that feeds back into all subsequent measurements, allowing the system to compensate for drift and variations automatically
Solution Approach 3:
The system changes the parameter of light spectrum by using select spectrums of light (specific wavelength ranges) to illuminate test strips. This targeted spectral illumination enhances the sensitivity and precision of color detection for specific analytes while reducing interference from other substances
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional readers use simple color detection methods, then the device is easy to operate, but the detection range is limited and the reader produces null results at low analyte concentrations and becomes saturated at high concentrations
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from simple single-value color detection to multi-dimensional color space analysis by capturing full RGB color information and analyzing it in three-dimensional color space. This dimensional expansion allows the system to distinguish subtle color variations and extend the linear detection range, avoiding saturation at high concentrations and null results at low concentrations
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calibration with standards spanning a wide concentration range to establish calibration curves that cover the entire expected detection range. This pre-established reference framework enables accurate measurement across low, medium, and high analyte concentrations within a single extended range
3Reliability
If conventional readers lack interference correction, then the measurement process is simple, but the reliability is poor due to inability to correct for interference substances that affect color intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the color measurement into multiple independent wavelength channels (RGB components). By analyzing color intensity separately at different wavelengths and using selective light spectrums, the system can identify and correct for interference substances that affect specific wavelength ranges differently, improving the reliability of analyte concentration determination
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from calibration data that includes interference substance characteristics to adjust and correct test strip readings. The calibration process establishes correction factors that feed back into the measurement algorithm, automatically compensating for common interference substances
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 improved accuracy and expanded detection range for test strip analysis, reducing errors and false readings by leveraging advanced imaging and machine-learning capabilities to correct for interference substances and variations in pH and other factors.
Implementation Method 1
Reaction of the analytes with the reactants on the test strip effects a color change that can then be detected using a reader
Implementation Method 2
illuminating a test strip wetted with a sample with select spectrums of light
Implementation Method 3
obtaining at least one digital image of the test strip
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for colorimetric based test strip analysis and reader system are provided. In one aspect, a method of test strip analysis includes: illuminating a test strip wetted with a sample with select spectrums of light, wherein the test strip includes test pads that are configured to change color in the presence of an analyte in the sample; obtaining at least one digital image of the test strip; and analyzing color intensity from the at least one digital image against calibration curves to determine an analyte concentration in the sample with correction for one or more interference substances in the sample that affect the color intensity. A calibration method and a reader device are also provided.