Portable Medicine Verification Device Using Image Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for checking the taking of medicines lack a standalone, real-time verification method that does not require external central station interactions, making them unreliable for immediate confirmation.
Innovation Solution
A portable device with image capture and processing capabilities that compares captured images against a reference list to verify the presence and correct positioning of medicines, using segmentation and shape recognition to ensure accurate detection and signaling for user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a standalone real-time checking system is implemented, then reliability of verification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the image capture function, image processing capability, and verification logic into a single integrated portable device. The processing means are incorporated directly into the portable element, merging multiple functions (detection, processing, comparison) that would traditionally be separate systems, thereby achieving real-time standalone verification without requiring external central station interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable device performs self-verification by capturing images of medicines, processing them locally through embedded processing means, comparing against reference data, and providing immediate feedback. The system serves itself by containing all necessary verification capabilities within the portable unit, eliminating dependence on external systems for real-time checking.
2Speed
If image processing capabilities are integrated into the portable device, then real-time checking is enabled, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The image processing is performed selectively rather than continuously - the device captures images and processes them only when verification is needed (when the vessel is accessed or at scheduled times). This partial action approach enables real-time checking capability while minimizing energy consumption by keeping the processing means dormant between verification events.
3Ease of operation
If a portable standalone device is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable element is designed as a multi-functional device that combines medicine detection, image capture, image processing, and verification capabilities in a single unit. This universal design allows the same device to perform multiple functions (containing medicines, detecting them via image processing, and verifying correctness) thereby improving ease of operation through portability while managing complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for detecting objects includes a vessel intended to contain the objects. A sensor is configured to capture at least one image of the vessel. A processing device is configured to process at least one captured image by detecting objects of the at least one captured image, extracting characteristics of each detected object, and generating a list of the characteristics of each detected object. A memory stores the generated list, the memory also configured to store a first reference list of object characteristics. The processing device further generates a second list of characteristics from a captured image. The characteristics of each object of the second list are compared with, respectively, the characteristics of each object of the reference list.