Diagnostic Test Kit Scan Surface with Control Markings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic testing methods require specialized equipment and trained personnel, limiting their use to controlled settings and leading to inaccurate results due to subjective interpretation of faint positive test results.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using computer vision techniques to analyze diagnostic tests, including a diagnostic test kit with a scan surface featuring control markings and a test placement guide, allowing for accurate interpretation of test results using mobile devices without the need for specialized hardware or training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If naked eye interpretation of diagnostic test results is used, then operation simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to subjective interpretation of faint positive test results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual system of naked eye interpretation with an automated image processing system. The system captures images of diagnostic tests using mobile devices and applies computer vision algorithms to automatically detect and interpret test results, eliminating subjective human interpretation while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image processing system between the diagnostic test and the final result interpretation. This intermediary system processes images through multiple stages including quality validation, control marking verification, and automated analysis to bridge the gap between simple operation and precise measurement.
2Measurement precision
If customized reading equipment is used to standardize test reading environment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and requires specialized training to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the reading system universal by using common mobile devices (smartphones, tablets) that most people already possess and know how to operate. The system is designed to work with standard camera devices and common operating systems, eliminating the need for specialized equipment while maintaining standardized reading conditions through software-based environmental control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated self-validation features including image quality checks, control marking verification, and automatic detection of test regions. These self-service functions eliminate the need for specialized training by automatically compensating for environmental variations and guiding users through the process without requiring expert knowledge.
3Measurement precision
If controlled setting operation is required for accurate reading, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to restrictions in location and patient convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters of the reading system from requiring controlled physical environments to using software-based environmental assessment and compensation. The system evaluates image quality parameters (lighting, focus, exposure) and automatically adjusts or validates readings, allowing accurate testing in diverse locations including patients' homes without sacrificing measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If specialized training is required to operate diagnostic test reading devices, then measurement precision is improved through standardized operation, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated self-validation features including image quality checks, control marking verification, and automatic detection of test regions. These self-service functions eliminate the need for specialized training by automatically compensating for environmental variations and guiding users through the process without requiring expert knowledge.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for analyzing a diagnostic test may include receiving an image depicting a diagnostic test, wherein the diagnostic test comprises a test region indicating a test result, validating quality of the image, locating a test region image portion of the image depicting the test region of the diagnostic test; and predicting the test result based on the test region image portion. Furthermore, a method for facilitating analysis of a diagnostic test may include receiving one or more images depicting one or more control markings on a scan surface, wherein the one or more control markings are representative of one or more predetermined test results for the diagnostic test, and verifying detection of the one or more control markings in the one or more images using at least one computer vision technique.