LFA Strip Reader Automates Patient Data Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current testing systems for COVID-19 are inadequate as they require uncomfortable nasal swabs, involve manual data entry prone to errors, and do not efficiently link patient samples to identification, leading to delayed and inaccurate results, which can exacerbate the spread of the disease.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a processor and memory that reads lateral flow assay strips, associates patient identification with unique cassette identifiers, and gathers vital signs and symptoms through automated means, providing rapid, accurate, and standardized test results that can be stored and shared electronically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual data entry is used to collect patient information and test results, then flexibility in data collection is maintained, but human error increases and accuracy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service data collection where the testing device automatically captures patient information through integrated scanners and sensors, and autonomously processes test results without requiring manual data entry by healthcare workers. This eliminates human error while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry processes with automated electronic data capture systems. Scanners, sensors, and processors automatically collect and process patient information and test results, substituting human manual operations with electronic automation to improve accuracy.
2Loss of time
If patient identification and test results are not efficiently linked, then data collection remains simple, but result tracking becomes delayed and inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where patient identification data is immediately captured, linked to test samples, and tracked through the testing process. Results are automatically associated with the correct patient record, providing real-time feedback and eliminating tracking delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an automated data management system that acts as an intermediary between patient identification, sample processing, and result reporting. This intermediary system ensures accurate linking and tracking of all test data without manual intervention.
3Productivity
If only test results are collected without additional patient data, then data collection is rapid, but comprehensive analysis capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a diagnostic tool and a comprehensive data collection system. It simultaneously performs testing while gathering patient demographics, symptoms, vitals, and contact information, eliminating the need for separate data collection processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the testing function with comprehensive patient data collection capabilities into a single integrated system. Multiple data collection functions (scanning, sensing, recording) are combined with the testing process itself, maintaining productivity while enhancing analytical capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including a processor and memory coupled to the processor. The memory stores a local testing database having a test configuration profile for a cassette having a unique identifier having a lateral flow assay (“LFA”) strip having a test line including an intensity threshold value for the test line that represents an intensity value which if met or exceeded indicates a positive test result. A scanner is coupled to the processor for receiving patient identification information that is provided to the processor, and an LFA strip reader is coupled to the processor for reading the LFA strip. The processor determines an LFA test result based on comparing a measured intensity value of a portion of the test line in the LFA strip image to the intensity threshold value, receives patient identification information from the scanner, and associates the patient identification information with the unique identifier of the cassette.