Automated Screening Test Paper Reader for Precision Color Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional screening test paper reading systems face inaccuracies due to human error in color interpretation and the need for precise placement of test papers under spectrum analyzers, leading to false negatives and time-consuming adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A screening test paper reading system with a reading and light illumination unit, an optical analyzing unit, and a moving and carrier platform that uses an image enlarger to analyze spectrum signals from the reaction zone, ensuring precise screening and reducing false negatives by automating the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual placement of screening test paper under spectrum analyzer is used, then the system structure is simple, but the screening precision deteriorates due to inaccurate placement and paper wearing
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated platform automatically places, positions, and reads the screening test paper without requiring manual intervention. The platform moves the test paper carrier to precise positions and the reading device automatically captures spectrum signals from the reaction zone, eliminating the need for users to manually place papers while maintaining simple operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical placement system with an automated moving platform that uses motorized control to position the test paper carrier. The reading device replaces manual visual inspection with automated spectrum signal capture and analysis, substituting mechanical human operation with automated electro-mechanical systems.
2Productivity
If manual adjustment of test paper position is performed, then the device structure is simple, but the screening time increases due to time-consuming adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary positioning actions by pre-configuring the test paper carrier with bearing grooves that guide proper placement. The automated platform then executes pre-programmed movement sequences to automatically position the carrier at the correct reading position, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual adjustments during the screening process.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated moving platform performs self-service positioning by automatically moving the test paper carrier from the insertion position to the reading position and back. The system autonomously completes the positioning tasks that previously required manual intervention, significantly reducing the time lost to adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If human eyes are used to determine color change, then no additional equipment is needed, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to poor accuracy and false negatives
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the human visual system with an automated reading device that captures spectrum signals from the reaction zone. The optical analyzing unit processes these signals to objectively determine color changes and concentration values, substituting subjective human vision with automated optical measurement equipment that eliminates false negatives.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transforms the color change detection from visual observation to quantitative spectrum signal analysis. By measuring optical density values across different wavelengths and converting them to concentration values through algorithms, the system changes the detection parameter from qualitative visual assessment to quantitative spectral measurement, significantly improving accuracy.
4Reliability
If fast-track screening is conducted without replacement, then operational simplicity is maintained, but the reliability deteriorates due to inability to perform subsequent high-precision screening
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by combining both fast-track screening and high-precision re-screening capabilities in a single automated platform. The same automated system that performs rapid initial screening can also conduct follow-up high-precision screenings by simply replacing the test paper, eliminating the need for separate equipment while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated platform enables seamless transition between fast-track and high-precision screening modes through self-service operation. Users simply replace the test paper in the same carrier, and the system automatically continues with the appropriate screening protocol, maintaining ease of operation while significantly improving reliability by enabling confirmatory testing.
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
The system enables rapid and precise screening by automating the analysis of spectrum signals from the test paper, reducing false negatives and improving the accuracy of screenings, particularly for COVID-19 IgM/IgG Rapid Test Kits and other immunochromatography tests.
Implementation Method 1
the light illumination device radiates light to the screening paper, the reading device reads spectrum signals of an reflected image from the screened line
Implementation Method 2
analyzing spectrum signals of a screened line image received from the reaction zone
Data Source
AI summary
A screening test paper reading system includes a reading and light illumination unit which has a reading device and a light illumination device, a screening test paper having a reaction zone arranged thereon for reacting chemically with a number of specific specimens and change its color accordingly, an optical analyzing unit connected to the reading and light illumination unit, and analyzing spectrum signals of a screened line image received from a reaction zone on a screening test paper. Notably, the reading device reads spectrum signals of an reflected image from the screened line after illuminated in the reaction zone and then transmits the spectrum signals of the reflected image subsequently to the optical analyzing unit for computing and analyzing.