pH Measurement Device Using Compressed Sample Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for rapid pH measurement in biological and chemical assays are inefficient, particularly in achieving precise and rapid results for health monitoring and environmental testing, as they lack precision volume control and rely on complex equipment.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising movable plates with spacers and pH indicators that compress a sample into a uniform thickness, allowing for rapid pH determination using colorimetric analysis aided by digital image processing and artificial intelligence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex equipment is used for pH measurement, then measurement precision may be improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential pH measurement function from complex laboratory equipment and implements it using simple components: pH indicator strips, mobile device camera, and image processing algorithms. This separates the core measurement capability from unnecessary complexity, achieving accurate pH measurement through a simplified system that uses only a camera and software analysis rather than complex optical instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the pH measurement process by capturing an image of the pH indicator strip with a mobile device camera and analyzing it through software algorithms. Instead of using complex physical measurement equipment, the system creates a digital representation of the color change and processes it computationally to determine pH values, thereby eliminating the need for sophisticated optical measurement devices.
2Productivity
If traditional pH measurement methods are used, then equipment may be simple, but measurement time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calibrating the system with known pH standards and storing reference color images before actual measurements. The mobile device captures reference images of pH indicator strips exposed to standards with known pH values, and these pre-stored references are used for rapid comparison during actual measurements, eliminating the need for complex real-time calibration and enabling immediate pH determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical and manual pH measurement processes with automated digital image processing. Instead of requiring manual color comparison or complex optical instrumentation, the system uses a mobile device camera to capture images and automated algorithms to analyze color values and determine pH, significantly reducing measurement time and eliminating manual intervention.
3Measurement precision
If precise volume control is implemented, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sample application process by providing designated deposition zones on the pH indicator strip where samples should be applied. Rather than requiring precise volume control through complex dispensing mechanisms, the system divides the strip into functional zones and guides users to apply samples to specific areas, ensuring consistent measurement conditions without needing sophisticated volume control 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
Enables rapid, precise pH measurement of bio/chemical samples within 30 seconds, facilitating health monitoring and environmental testing with improved precision and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
one or both of the plates comprise, on the respective inner surface, the pH indicator that, upon contacting the sample, exhibits a color indicative of a pH value of the sample
Implementation Method 2
at least part of the sample is compressed by the two plates into a layer of uniform thickness, the layer is confined by the inner surfaces of the plates
Data Source
AI summary
Among other things, certain embodiments of the present disclosure are related to devices and methods of performing biological and chemical assays, such as but not limited to pH measurement of bio/chemical samples.