Digital Imaging Blood Cell Counter Without Microscope
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for performing complex blood tests, such as CBC and pathogen detection, at point-of-care or in resource-limited settings require expensive instrumentation and skilled operators, making them impractical for immediate diagnosis outside medical facilities.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a testing device with an image sensor and light source for capturing images of blood samples without the need for a microscope, coupled with automated data analysis and decision support, allowing for rapid, accurate, and affordable laboratory-quality blood testing using microfluidic devices or peripheral blood smears.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated and manual methods are used for performing CBC, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a digital camera to capture an image of the blood smear, creating a digital copy of the visual field that would normally require a microscope. This digital copy can then be analyzed automatically by software, replacing the need for complex optical microscopy equipment while maintaining the ability to perform accurate cell counting and identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical system of traditional microscopes with a digital imaging system using a camera sensor, light source, and image processing software. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical focusing mechanisms, objective lenses, and eyepieces while achieving comparable or superior measurement precision through digital image analysis.
2Measurement precision
If automated and manual methods are used for performing CBC, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring highly skilled operators
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated image capture and analysis, with the digital camera automatically capturing the blood smear image and the software automatically counting and classifying cells. This self-service capability eliminates the need for highly skilled operators to manually count cells under a microscope, while maintaining high measurement precision through consistent automated analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automated feedback through the digital image capture and analysis process, allowing operators to review results and make adjustments if needed. The digital nature of the system enables easy re-analysis and quality control without requiring advanced manual skills.
3Measurement precision
If samples are collected, prepared and sent off for testing using conventional methods, then measurement precision is maintained, but loss of time increases due to the time-consuming process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sample preparation and testing functions into a single integrated system. The blood smear is prepared and then immediately imaged and analyzed by the same device, eliminating the need to separate these steps and transport samples to different locations. This merging of functions dramatically reduces the time from sample collection to result while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital camera acts as an intermediary between the blood smear and the analysis system, capturing the visual information and transferring it digitally for immediate processing. This intermediary enables rapid data transfer and analysis without the delays associated with physical sample transport and manual examination.
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 rapid, accurate, and affordable laboratory-quality blood testing at the point of care, eliminating the need for expensive equipment and skilled personnel, facilitating immediate diagnosis and decision-making.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured to transmit light to allow the image sensor to capture at least one image
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for performing a point of care blood, cell, and/or pathogen count or a similar blood test. Disclosed herein are systems that can be used to provide rapid, accurate, affordable laboratory-quality testing at the point of care. The systems described herein are capable of imaging and counting individual cells in a prepared cell sample (e.g., a peripheral blood smear or a blood sample prepared in a microfluidic device) or another prepared cell-containing sample without the need for a microscope or other expensive and cumbersome optics. The systems described herein are designed to eliminate or replace expensive, centralized clinical testing equipment and technical personnel. Such systems may include automated data reporting and decision support.