Fluorescence Reference Strip Calibration for Consistent Test Strip Readings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing measurement systems using test strips experience variations in optical information due to instrument differences, affecting measurement accuracy.

Innovation Solution

A determination system incorporating a fluorescence determination element with predetermined fluorescent portions, a light source, and a control section that acquires calibration data and determines fluorescence information to correct for instrument variations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a test strip is used to detect reaction by optical information, then measurement capability is provided, but instrument differences cause variations in detected color tone and intensity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidconsistency across instruments
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a fluorescence reference strip as an intermediary standard between the test strip and the imaging device. This reference strip contains fluorescent substances with known emission characteristics that serve as a mediator to calibrate and standardize the optical measurement system, enabling consistent measurements across different instruments by providing a common reference point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes fluorescence emission parameters (intensity, wavelength) as changeable physical quantities to correct optical measurement variations. By measuring the fluorescence signal from the reference strip and comparing it against known standards, the system dynamically adjusts measurement parameters to compensate for instrument-specific variations in color tone and intensity detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If color tone correction technology is applied, then color accuracy is improved, but multiple light sources or complex correction methods are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecolor accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the calibration function from complex multi-source illumination systems and implements it through a simple single light source combined with a fluorescence reference strip. By separating the measurement function from the calibration function and using fluorescence properties inherent to the reference strip, the system achieves color accuracy without requiring multiple light sources or complex correction algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a simplified optical calibration model by using a fluorescence reference strip that copies or replicates the measurement conditions in a standardized form. The reference strip provides a known fluorescence signal that serves as a template for correction, allowing the system to derive correction factors without needing complex physical models or multiple illumination sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

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 ensures accurate measurement results by correcting for instrument-specific fluctuations in optical information, enhancing measurement precision.

Implementation Method 1

The fluorescence determination element has a predetermined plural number of fluorescent portions arranged at predetermined positions. The light source irradiates the fluorescence determination element with a single excitation light.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence: Fluorescence

Data Source

PatentUS20250377302A1Determination system, test strip, and fluorescence reference strip
Publication Date: 2025.12.11 ARKRAY INC
  • US20250377302A1 patent drawing
  • US20250377302A1 patent drawing
  • US20250377302A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A determination system including a fluorescence determination element, a light source, and a control section. The fluorescence determination element has a predetermined plural number of fluorescent portions arranged at predetermined positions. The light source irradiates the fluorescence determination element with a single excitation light. The control section includes an image acquisition unit that acquires calibration data, which is image data from capturing the fluorescence determination element irradiated by the light source, and a determination unit that determines fluorescence information based on the calibration data.