Optical Analysis Device Remote Fluid Test Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing point-of-care testing devices face challenges in remote visual analysis due to suboptimal patient performance and lighting conditions, limiting the successful transmission and interpretation of test results during telehealth sessions.
Innovation Solution
An optical analysis device with a housing base, light chamber assembly, and adjustable camera configuration that allows for controlled illumination and positioning of test samples, enabling clear image capture and transmission of test results for remote viewing, and optionally includes a microcontroller for image interpretation using computer vision techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If patients attempt to transmit test results via telehealth video conferencing, then remote analysis capability is achieved, but image quality and result interpretability deteriorate due to suboptimal lighting and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The device prepares the test sample for optimal imaging before the actual test result is read. The light chamber and camera are pre-configured to capture high-quality images of the test result as soon as it becomes visible, eliminating the need for patients to manually position and light the sample during telehealth visits.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary imaging system between the test sample and the telehealth provider. Instead of patients directly transmitting images through their devices, the specialized camera system acts as an intermediary that captures standardized, high-quality images which are then transmitted to the provider.
2Ease of operation
If patients use existing point-of-care testing devices at home, then testing accessibility is improved, but result interpretation reliability deteriorates due to suboptimal lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The device pre-configures optimal lighting conditions within the light chamber before the test result is read. LEDs are positioned and controlled to provide consistent, shadow-free illumination exactly when the test result becomes visible, ensuring reliable imaging without requiring patient intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The device controls lighting parameters (intensity, duration, spectral composition) to optimize for test result imaging. The system adjusts these parameters automatically based on the test type and timing, transforming variable home lighting conditions into controlled, reliable imaging conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If patients manually position testing devices for telehealth viewing, then remote consultation is enabled, but positioning accuracy deteriorates leading to failed interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-positioning and self-imaging functions that would otherwise require skilled patient操作. The automated camera system positions itself to capture the test result, and the light chamber automatically illuminates the sample, eliminating positioning errors caused by patient inexperience.
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated imaging system. Instead of patients physically adjusting device position and angle, the camera system automatically captures the test result from the optimal viewpoint, substituting mechanical patient manipulation with automated optical capture.
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
Facilitates clear and accurate remote visualization of test results, improving the reliability of telehealth-based point-of-care testing by providing optimal lighting and positioning for test samples, and enabling automated interpretation of results.
Implementation Method 1
A light source is disposed both within the interior volume of the housing base and radially-outwardly of the wall of the light chamber
Data Source
AI summary
An optical analysis device for imaging a test sample with a camera including a housing base defining an interior volume, and a light chamber assembly disposed within the interior volume of the housing base. Optionally, the light chamber assembly includes a light tunnel defined by a continuous tube-shaped wall that extends from a first aperture to a second aperture: a light source is disposed both within the interior volume of the housing base and radially-outwardly of the tube-shaped wall of the light chamber. The camera is selectively positionable adjacent the first aperture of the light tunnel and the sample is selectively positionable within the interior volume of the housing base adjacent the second aperture of the light tunnel.