Mobile Test Card Imaging With Rectification for Result Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical test card reading systems are limited by the availability of dedicated test stations, which may be far from patients or malfunctioning, and lack the flexibility to read results using ubiquitous mobile devices.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a mobile device with a camera to capture images of test cards, which are analyzed by a diagnostic server for result identification, applying image transformations and machine learning algorithms to rectify and interpret the test results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated test stations are used to read test cards, then reading accuracy is maintained, but device availability and accessibility deteriorate due to limited locations and potential malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling mobile devices (smartphones, tablets) to perform test card reading functions that were previously exclusive to dedicated test stations. The mobile device camera captures images of test cards, and image processing algorithms analyze the results, allowing the same functionality to be performed across multiple device types and locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating digital images of test cards using mobile device cameras instead of requiring physical presence at dedicated reading stations. The captured images are then processed to extract test results, effectively copying the visual information needed for analysis and enabling remote or flexible reading locations.
2Device complexity
If manual interpretation of test cards is performed, then no specialized equipment is needed, but reading time and potential for human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies self-service by enabling automatic test card reading through mobile devices and image processing algorithms. The mobile device captures the test card image, and automated processing extracts results without requiring manual interpretation by medical professionals, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining simplicity in equipment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of test card interpretation with an automated image processing system. Instead of human eyes and brains analyzing test card markings, computer algorithms process the captured images to identify and interpret results, substituting mechanical human cognition with automated computational analysis.
3Measurement precision
If image transformations are applied to rectify test card images, then measurement precision improves, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing image rectification and transformation operations before the actual test result analysis. The system captures the test card image, applies necessary geometric corrections, scaling, and orientation adjustments upfront, and then proceeds with result identification on the pre-processed image, ensuring accurate measurements while organizing complexity in a structured sequence.
Data Source
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AI summary
An input image is received from a mobile device. A portion of the input image is determined to correspond to a test card and an image transformation is applied to that portion of the input image. The image transformation rectifies the portion of the input image. Based on the rectified image, a specific test for which the test card includes a result and the result of that test are both identified.