Portable Biological Specimen Testing with Smartphone Camera Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing biological specimens, such as semen, require expensive microscope equipment and professional expertise, making frequent testing burdensome and costly for individuals.
Innovation Solution
A portable testing equipment with a magnifying function that includes a specimen holding area, a convex lens magnifying part, and a detachable cover, allowing for magnified observation of biological specimens using a smartphone camera without the need for traditional microscopes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional microscope equipment is used for biological specimen testing, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a camera to capture images of the specimen through the magnifying lens, creating a digital copy of the specimen view. This allows the complex analysis to be performed on the digital image rather than requiring direct microscopic observation, reducing the complexity of the physical device while maintaining observation accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical optical system of traditional microscopes with a combination of a simple magnifying lens and a digital camera system. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining the ability to observe specimens at magnified levels
2Measurement precision
If professional testing authorities perform testing, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but loss of time and accessibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables individuals to perform testing themselves using the portable device with magnifying lens and camera. The device includes features like automated image capture and analysis capabilities, allowing users to conduct tests without needing to visit professional testing authorities, thus reducing time loss and improving accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The device allows specimens to be prepared and observed immediately at home rather than requiring transport to professional facilities. The preliminary preparation and observation can be done right when the specimen is collected, eliminating delays associated with professional testing schedules
3Measurement precision
If expensive microscope equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera captures digital images of the specimen, allowing users to view and analyze specimens on a screen rather than through complex optical eyepieces. This digital interface is more intuitive and easier to operate for individuals without specialized training
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical microscope controls with a simple camera-based system that can be operated through standard digital interfaces, making the device accessible to users without professional training
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 individuals to perform semen testing and other biological analyses conveniently and cost-effectively, providing accurate results for sperm concentration, motility, and morphology without requiring specialized equipment or expertise.
Implementation Method 1
a magnifying part (30) with a magnifying ratio of more than 10x, the magnifying part (30) having a convex lens
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are calibration techniques that can be implemented by a device that conducts biological tests. In certain embodiments, the device for testing a biological specimen includes a receiving mechanism to receive a carrier, a camera module arranged to capture imagery of the carrier, and a processor. Some examples of the processor can detect a calibration mode trigger. In calibration mode, the processor can divide the captured imagery into segments and selectively perform one or more calibration procedures for each segment. Then, the processor records a calibration result for each segment.