Sample Container Imaging for Test Result Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The reliability of test results for samples such as feces and blood is compromised due to inadequate management of sample collection and storage conditions, including elapsed time and environmental temperature, which affects the quality of the samples and the accuracy of test outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A management system that acquires images of sample containers to recognize relevant information like collection date and temperature exposure, using temperature detection materials and transparent portions to assess sample reliability, and derives reliability information based on these factors, associating test results with subject information and group boundaries to ensure accurate testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual barcode attachment and reading methods are used to associate test results with samples, then the process is simple and low-cost, but the reliability of test results is compromised due to inadequate management of sample collection and storage conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary imaging of the sample container to capture collection date information and temperature detection material readings before the test is conducted. This advance capture of management information ensures that sample conditions are recorded while still accurate, enabling reliable assessment of sample integrity prior to testing without adding complexity to the actual testing process
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary imaging device that captures visual information from the sample container, including collection date labels and temperature detection materials. This intermediary mechanism bridges the gap between simple sample handling and reliable test result association, providing objective evidence of sample conditions without requiring complex direct monitoring systems
2Reliability
If sample management information is not captured, then the process is fast and simple, but the quality of samples deteriorates due to unmonitored elapsed time and temperature conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The sample container itself serves the dual function of holding the sample and displaying its management information (collection date labels and temperature detection materials). The imaging device simply captures what is already presented on the container surface, eliminating the need for separate data entry or additional monitoring devices, thus maintaining rapid processing while ensuring sample quality through objective information capture
3Reliability
If temperature detection materials and imaging devices are used to monitor sample conditions, then sample reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the essential visual information from the sample container (collection date from labels and temperature data from detection materials) using a standard imaging device. By taking out only the necessary information rather than implementing complex continuous monitoring systems, the solution achieves improved sample reliability while maintaining ease of manufacture and implementation
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy (image) of the sample container's management information rather than implementing physical monitoring infrastructure. This copying approach using standard imaging technology provides reliable documentation of sample conditions without requiring specialized or expensive manufacturing, making the system easy to implement while improving test result reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A management system including at least one processor, wherein the processor is configured to acquire an image obtained by imaging a sample container containing a sample, recognize relevant information related to reliability of a test result related to the sample based on the image, and derive reliability information indicating the reliability of the test result related to the sample based on the recognized relevant information.