Optical Test Strip Analysis Using Mobile Camera Relative Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for analytical measurements using mobile devices, such as smartphones, face challenges in accurately determining analyte concentrations due to variations in camera systems and lighting conditions, which affect the reliability and accuracy of results.
Innovation Solution
A method involving capturing initial and subsequent images of an optical test strip with locked image acquisition settings, using a mobile device's camera, to determine analytical measurement results by comparing the images and accounting for ambient lighting conditions, thereby improving measurement accuracy and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If standard camera systems in mobile devices are used for analytical measurements, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to variations in camera systems and lighting conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from absolute color values to relative color differences by comparing test field to reference field. This transformation makes the measurement invariant to camera system variations and lighting conditions, thereby maintaining measurement precision while using simple mobile device cameras
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reference field as an intermediary element that captures ambient lighting conditions. By comparing the test field to this reference field, the system eliminates the effect of varying lighting conditions and camera characteristics, achieving reliable measurements with simple devices
2Measurement precision
If absolute color measurement methods are used, then measurement accuracy may be maintained under controlled conditions, but the adaptability to different lighting conditions and camera systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the measurement from absolute color values to relative color differences by subtracting the reference field values from the test field values. This parameter transformation enables the system to adapt to different lighting conditions and camera systems while maintaining measurement accuracy through relative comparison
3Reliability
If specialized photometric devices are used for analytical measurements, then measurement reliability is improved, but the ease of operation and accessibility by general users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the analytical measurement system universal by using a mobile device camera that can perform both reference field capture and test field measurement. This multi-functional approach allows general users to perform reliable analytical measurements with devices they already possess, eliminating the need for specialized equipment
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 enhances the reliability and accuracy of analytical measurements by using relative image analysis, simplifying the process for users, and being compatible with a wide range of mobile devices, reducing the need for precise color measurement capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
capturing at least one first image of at least part of the test field
Implementation Method 2
by using the camera with at least one image acquisition setting of the camera
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method of performing an analytical measurement based on a color formation reaction in an optical test strip (116) by using a mobile device (112) having a camera (114) as well as a computer program including computer-executable instructions for performing the method are disclosed. Further disclosed are a mobile device and a kit for performing an analytical measurement. The method comprises step a): providing an optical test strip (116) having a test field (118) without having a sample applied thereto; step b): capturing at least one first image of at least part of the test field (118) of the optical test strip (116) without having a sample applied thereto by using the camera (114) with at least one image acquisition setting of the camera (114), specifically with a set of acquisition settings of the camera (114); step c): applying a sample, specifically a drop, of bodily fluid to the test field (118) of the optical test strip (116); step d): waiting for a predetermined minimum amount of time; step e): capturing at least one second image of at least part of the test field (118) of the optical test strip (116) having the sample of bodily fluid applied thereto by using the camera (114) with the one or more image acquisition settings of the camera (114), wherein the image acquisition settings of the camera (114) are the same image acquisition settings of the camera (114) as used in step b); and step f): determining an analytical measurement result value by using the first and the second image of the optical test field (118) of the optical test strip (116), specifically by comparing the at least two images.