Optical Chamber Standardizes Test Media Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image-based analysis systems for test media face challenges in standardizing image capturing and processing across different devices, leading to variability in test results due to differences in resolution, hue, saturation, and clarity.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an optical chamber with a light source and a computing system that uses a calibration matrix to standardize images, applying algorithms to ensure consistent processing regardless of the image capturing device's capabilities, and a cloud-based service for image analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different image capturing devices are used to analyze test media, then device versatility is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variability in resolution, hue, saturation, and clarity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by capturing images under controlled lighting conditions with standardized illumination intensity and spectral characteristics. The system adjusts and standardizes parameters such as light wavelength (380-780nm), illumination intensity (50-200 lux), and lighting angle (45 degrees) to ensure consistent image quality across different devices, thereby maintaining measurement precision while supporting device versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary standardized lighting environment between the test media and different image capturing devices. This controlled lighting chamber acts as a mediator that ensures all devices capture images under identical conditions, eliminating device-specific variations in resolution, hue, saturation, and clarity while allowing multiple devices to be used
2Measurement precision
If standardized lighting conditions are implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional lighting control components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by designing a standardized lighting chamber that serves multiple purposes: it provides controlled illumination, defines a standardized field of view, controls lighting angle, and ensures consistent background conditions. This single integrated structure achieves multiple standardization goals simultaneously, improving measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating a standardized lighting environment specifically in the region where the test media is placed and imaged. The controlled lighting conditions are applied locally to the test area rather than requiring system-wide complexity, focusing standardization only where it is needed for accurate measurement
3Manufacturing precision
If controlled lighting environment is used, then image processing accuracy is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase for the optical chamber components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the optical chamber with standardized lighting conditions and geometric dimensions before image capture. The chamber is pre-designed with specific dimensions (e.g., 100mm x 100mm x 50mm), lighting angles (45 degrees), and illumination intensities (50-200 lux) to ensure consistent imaging conditions, thereby improving image processing accuracy while managing manufacturing precision requirements through standardized designs
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
The solution enables standardized and accurate image processing of test media, ensuring consistent results across various image capturing devices by calibrating and correcting for device-specific variations, thereby improving the reliability of test results.
Implementation Method 1
a light source that illuminates inside the device
Implementation Method 2
a top panel that comprising an optical lens that aligns with the raised test bed
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and systems for image-based analysis of test media are disclosed herein. An example device includes four side panels connected together so as to form a tubular rectangle, a floor panel that covers an opening of the tubular rectangle, the floor panel having a raised test bed that receives a test medium, a top panel that having an optical lens that aligns with the raised test bed when the top panel covers another opening of the tubular rectangle. The optical lens is aligned with an aperture that extends through the top panel. The four side panels, the floor panel, and the top panel forming an optic chamber when joined together. The device also includes a light source that illuminates inside the device.