FSH Test Strip Color Analysis for Ovulation Prediction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for estimating ovulation date using LH or FSH test strips have limited accuracy, allowing reliable estimation only about 24 to 48 hours before actual ovulation, which is not sufficient for advanced prediction.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a camera and processor that analyzes color data from FSH test strips to detect a first FSH downward trend, enabling estimation of ovulation date 5 to 7 days in advance by mapping color information to hormonal concentration values and using mathematical and statistical analysis to predict the ovulation date.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If LH test strips are used to estimate ovulation date, then the detection of LH peak is enabled, but the estimation accuracy is limited to only 24 to 48 hours before actual ovulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measured parameter from LH concentration to FSH concentration. By monitoring FSH levels instead of LH levels, the system can detect the first FSH downward trend which occurs 5 to 7 days before ovulation, thereby extending the prediction time window while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary detection of the first FSH downward trend well in advance of the LH peak. By identifying this early FSH pattern, the system enables users to take preliminary actions (such as timing intercourse or fertility treatments) 5 to 7 days before ovulation occurs, rather than waiting until the LH peak is detected
2Loss of time
If FSH test strips are used to detect FSH surge, then the prediction time window is extended, but the measurement accuracy decreases compared to LH detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism that monitors FSH concentration trends over multiple measurement points. By analyzing the pattern of FSH levels (rising to a peak and then declining) rather than relying on a single threshold detection, the system maintains measurement accuracy while extending the prediction window to 5 to 7 days before ovulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static threshold-based detection to dynamic trend analysis. Instead of detecting a fixed LH peak threshold, the system dynamically identifies the first FSH downward trend by comparing sequential measurements, allowing accurate detection of the characteristic FSH rise-and-fall pattern that occurs 5 to 7 days before ovulation
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 device achieves high accuracy in predicting ovulation date by detecting the first FSH downward trend, allowing users to estimate ovulation 5 to 7 days in advance with an average of 6 days' notice, significantly improving upon conventional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a camera, configured to obtain colour data of successive test strips
Data Source
AI summary
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for estimation of an ovulation date, comprising a camera, configured to obtain colour data of successive FSH test strips and a processor, configured to evaluate the colour data obtained by the camera. The processor is configured to determine a concentration value of each successive FSH test strip based on the data of the camera and to output a signal, if the processor determines that a first FSH downward trend of the FSH test strip values is occurring in the successive FSH test strips.