Digital Color Scale Analysis for Test Strip Interpretation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current color test strip technologies are prone to human error and variability in interpretation due to factors like inconsistent dipping techniques, perception differences, and environmental factors, leading to reduced accuracy in color measurement.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that involves capturing a digital image of a color test strip proximate to a preprinted color scale, using computer processing to determine digital color values, and comparing them to a digital representation of the color scale to accurately interpret the test results, thereby minimizing human error and environmental influences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If human reading of color test strips is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to human error and variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical human visual inspection system with a digital imaging system that captures photographs of the test strip and uses computer algorithms to analyze colors. The system substitutes human eyes and brain processing with a camera sensor and image processing software, eliminating human variability while maintaining operational simplicity through automated digital analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (photograph) of the test strip color and analyzes this copy rather than the physical strip itself. By working with digital image data instead of physical test strips, the system eliminates the need for direct human handling and visual interpretation, thereby improving measurement precision while keeping the operation simple
2Measurement precision
If color charts are used for comparison, then measurement capability is provided, but measurement precision deteriorates due to printing variability and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical color charts with digitally stored reference color values. Instead of relying on printed charts that vary due to printing processes and environmental exposure, the system uses digital color data that can be consistently stored and retrieved, eliminating the reliability issues associated with physical chart degradation and variability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from physical color parameters (printed ink colors on paper charts) to digital color parameters (numeric color values in image files). This parameter change from physical to digital domain eliminates the reliability problems of printing variability, ink fading, and environmental degradation that affect physical color charts
3Measurement precision
If digital image processing is implemented, then measurement precision improves through automated analysis, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated image processing algorithms that automatically analyze the captured test strip photograph and determine color results without requiring complex manual intervention. The system performs automatic color extraction, comparison, and result generation, reducing the need for complex user operations and specialized equipment while maintaining high measurement precision
4Adaptability or versatility
If human interpretation of color tests is used, then adaptability to various test conditions is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates due to perception variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the human perceptual system with a digital imaging and processing system that consistently measures color values regardless of environmental conditions. The digital system captures images and analyzes color data algorithmically, eliminating the perception variability that affects human interpreters while maintaining adaptability through software-based analysis that can be adjusted for different test conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A method for interpreting a color in a photographic digital image is disclosed. The method includes receiving a photographic digital image comprising a color portion proximate to a color scale. Different spatial positions on the color scale correspond to different known outcome values. The position of the color portion in the digital image is located and a digital color value for the color portion is determined. Digital scale color values at different positions on the color scale are determined. The digital color value is compared to one or more digital scale color values to determine a digital reference color value that approximates the digital color value of the color portion. A position of the digital reference color value on the color scale is determined. An outcome value is then determined based on the position of the digital reference color value.