Optical Imaging Clinical Sampler for Accurate Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clinical sampling systems are unable to accurately determine the concentration of target compounds in liquid samples, often resulting in inaccuracies due to limitations in detecting small changes in test strip reactions.
Innovation Solution
A clinical sampling system that uses a conventional test strip with a control and sample region, imaged by an optical imager, where the images are digitally processed to provide an indication of the relative amounts of target compounds, such as antibiotics, by comparing the reaction intensity between the sample and control regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If photodiodes are used to register the presence or absence of a reaction on the strip, then the system is simple, but the system is unable to provide an indication of the concentration of the target compounds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple photodiode detection with a digital imaging system using a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. This substitution enables the system to capture detailed images of the test strip, allowing for concentration determination through image analysis while maintaining relative system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a computer as an intermediary between the test strip and the detection system. The computer captures images using the CCD camera and performs digital analysis to determine target compound concentrations, bridging the gap between simple imaging and precise measurement.
2Reliability
If photodetectors are used to detect fluorescence emitted from the sample liquids, then the system can detect target compounds, but the systems are frequently unable to detect small changes in the test strip, which leads to inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional photodetector-based fluorescence detection with a digital imaging system using a CCD camera. This substitution provides higher sensitivity and accuracy in detecting small changes in test strip reactions, as the digital imaging system can capture subtle variations in color intensity and patterns that photodetectors miss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the test strip through imaging. By capturing an image of the test strip and analyzing it digitally, the system can repeatedly examine the same data without degradation, allowing for more accurate detection of small changes compared to single-pass photodetector measurement.
3Measurement precision
If conventional optical scanners or sophisticated instruments are used to acquire color images of sample arrays, then the systems can determine relative concentrations of target compounds, but the systems are very complex and require sophisticated instruments or components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a conventional test strip as a disposable element that can be imaged by a relatively simple digital camera. Instead of requiring expensive, sophisticated test strips or microchips, the system uses standard imaging technology to read information from inexpensive, single-use test strips, thereby reducing overall system complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a digital imaging system that can serve multiple functions: capturing images of test strips, analyzing color patterns, determining concentrations, and providing results. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized instruments, simplifying the overall system while maintaining measurement precision.
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
This approach allows for reliable and accurate determination of target compound concentrations, simplifying the process and reducing the need for complex instruments, while ensuring precise measurement of target compounds in liquid samples.
Implementation Method 1
an optical imager that acquires an image of the sample region and the control region
Data Source
AI summary
A clinical sampling system including a reader capable of optically imaging a test cartridge presented thereto and then automatically determining the presence and concentration of a target compound in a liquid sample placed on the test cartridge. The reader includes an optical imaging unit for illuminating, imaging, and interpreting the test cartridge. The test cartridge houses a reaction strip having a control region and a sample region that reacts to a liquid sample placed on the strip. The presence and concentration of the target compound are interpreted by determining the relative reflected intensities of the control region and sample region and calculating the ratio of the reflected intensities relative to the reflected intensity of the background.