Normalized Decimal Laboratory Results Reporting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laboratory test result reporting systems face challenges such as varying reference ranges due to different methods and instruments, complexity in data interpretation, storage issues, and lack of standardization, leading to difficulties in data portability and intuitive reporting.
Innovation Solution
A results reporting system that normalizes laboratory results using a decimal equivalent scale, referred to as CentiBlick units, allowing for intuitive comparison and storage, reducing the need for reference ranges and units, and enabling easier graphical representation and data portability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If reference ranges are stored with each associated result, then reports on archived data can be generated more readily, but additional storage space is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the reference range data from individual test results and stores it separately in a centralized reference range database. This allows test results to be stored with minimal data, reducing storage requirements, while reference ranges remain accessible for report generation through the separate database.
Solution Approach 2:
The reference range database serves multiple functions: it provides reference ranges for current test results, enables generation of reports on archived data, and supports comparison across different laboratories and testing methods. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need to store redundant reference range data with each individual result.
2Measurement precision
If conventional reference range systems are used with varying units and numerical results, then laboratory-specific accuracy is maintained, but data interpretation becomes complicated and lacks standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms test results from their original units and scales into a normalized standardized scale. This parameter transformation allows results from different laboratories and testing methods to be compared directly, simplifying interpretation while maintaining the underlying precision through the normalization process.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized scale acts as an intermediary that translates between different laboratory-specific measurement systems. This mediator enables comparison and interpretation across diverse sources without losing the precision of the original measurements, as the transformation is reversible and mathematically rigorous.
3Loss of information
If multiple reference ranges and units are displayed on reports, then complete information is provided, but reports become cluttered and pertinent information is harder to locate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different data representations to different contexts: standardized values are used for direct comparison and trending across tests, while original units and reference ranges are available on-demand for specific test interpretation. This local quality approach ensures information completeness while maintaining report clarity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If results are normalized to a single scale, then graphical representation and data portability are enhanced, but conversion from conventional units is required
Solution Approach 1:
The normalization conversion is performed preliminarily when test results are entered into the system, rather than when they are needed for reporting or analysis. This preliminary action converts all incoming data to the standardized scale immediately, eliminating the need for repeated conversions and reducing the apparent complexity during data retrieval and analysis operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A results reporting system can generate test results at one or more laboratory sites. Each of the generated test results can be in a conventional unit of measurement. The results reporting system can then convert each of the testing results to a normalized decimal equivalent unit system of measurement. The normalized decimal equivalent unit of measurement can be a unit of measurement that is normalized to an associated reference range of the test result. Once converted to normalized decimal equivalent unit, the test results can be stored in a mass storage device for later reporting. A triggering event (e.g., a request from a reviewing entity) can then trigger the reporting system to generate a results report using the stored test results. The results report can convey the test results to a reviewing entity using the normalized decimal equivalent unit of measurement in graphs, tables or other methods of conveying data. In some embodiments, result reports can be displayed on a computer display and can include selectable icons that, when selected, display additional information related to the displayed results.