Fluidic Particle Dispersion Evaluation Using Grayscale Calibration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional analyzers fail to accurately determine the dispersion of test particles in fluidic substances, leading to false test results and potential misdiagnosis due to instrument variability and errors, without effective methods to validate particle dispersion.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize an image capture device and processor to calibrate a universal calibration curve based on grayscale values, determining particle concentration and generating a flagging result to ensure proper dispersion, integrated with an automated analyzer to validate reagents in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional analyzers are used to test patient samples, then test results can be obtained, but false test results occur due to improper dispersion of test particles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/optical measurement systems with an image capture device that takes photographs of the reaction vessel. The system uses image processing algorithms to analyze the photographs and determine particle dispersion quality, substituting traditional mechanical sensors with optical imaging and computational analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image capture device and processing system between the test particles and the analysis result. Instead of directly measuring particle properties, the system captures images of the particles in the reaction vessel and uses image analysis to assess dispersion, adding an intermediary visual measurement step.
2Stability of the object's composition
If ultrasonic resuspension is used to disperse test particles, then particle dispersion is improved, but there is no effective method to validate whether particles are properly dispersed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the image capture device continuously monitors particle dispersion in the reaction vessel. The system compares the captured images against dispersion criteria and provides feedback on whether the dispersion is adequate, allowing real-time validation and adjustment of the ultrasonic resuspension process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical validation methods with optical image capture and computational analysis. Instead of using mechanical sensors to detect particle distribution, the system uses photographs and image processing algorithms to validate particle dispersion quality.
3Device complexity
If conventional systems do not determine particle concentration parameters, then system complexity is reduced, but accuracy of test results deteriorates due to instrument variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical concentration measurement systems with a simpler image capture and analysis system. By using photographs and image processing to determine particle concentration, the system achieves accurate measurement without requiring complex mechanical sensors or multiple measurement devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the image capture device serve multiple functions: it captures images for particle dispersion assessment, determines particle concentration, and validates reagent quality. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate measurement devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy.
4Productivity
If multiple tests are conducted using the same analyzer, then productivity is improved, but particle concentration variations occur due to instrument variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback monitoring of particle concentration using the image capture device during multiple test cycles. The system tracks concentration variations in real-time and provides feedback to maintain consistency, allowing multiple tests to be conducted with stable particle concentration despite instrument variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical concentration measurement systems with optical image analysis that can quickly assess particle concentration without physical contact or complex mechanical operations. This enables rapid, consistent measurements across multiple test cycles, maintaining productivity while improving concentration consistency.
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
Ensures accurate particle dispersion evaluation, reducing false results and enabling real-time reagent validation, with improved precision and repeatability across multiple test cycles.
Implementation Method 1
capturing, via an image capture device, a reference image of at least a portion of a container... capturing, via the image capture device, a test image of the container containing the aspirated volume of the fluidic substance
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method (400) of evaluating a fluidic substance (10) having particles (11). The method (400) comprises capturing a reference image (202) of at least a portion of a container (102) that is in an empty state; determining a reference grayscale value (V1) of at least a portion of the reference image (202); aspirating a volume of the fluidic substance (10) into the container (102); capturing a test image (252) of the container (102) containing the aspirated volume of the fluidic substance (10); determining a test grayscale value (V2) of at least a portion of the test image (252); calibrating a universal calibration curve (56) relating particle concentration and grayscale value based on the reference and test grayscale values (V1, V2); and determining a particle concentration (P1) in the fluidic substance (10) based on the test grayscale value (V2) and the calibrated universal calibration curve (60).