Smartphone Microscope with Detachable Magnifying Lens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing biological specimens, such as semen analysis, require expensive microscope equipment and are not feasible for frequent or home-based testing due to their complexity and cost, posing a burden in terms of time and expense.
Innovation Solution
A portable and cost-effective testing equipment with a magnifying function that includes a detachable cover with a magnifying component, compatible with smartphones or tablets, allowing for easy use and instant results, suitable for various biological specimen testing including semen, urine, and blood analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional microscope equipment is used for biological specimen testing, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
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 complex optical systems for direct observation. The camera system replicates the visual inspection function while enabling digital processing and analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical microscope system with a simpler magnifying lens combined with a digital camera system. Instead of using complex mechanical microscope structures with multiple lenses and adjustment mechanisms, the invention uses a single magnifying lens (50-100x) coupled with digital imaging to achieve the same observation capability with reduced mechanical complexity.
2Measurement precision
If conventional microscope equipment is used for biological specimen testing, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and potentially disposed of after use. The magnifying lens (50-100x) and camera system are significantly cheaper than conventional microscopes, and the carrier with specimen receiving area can be designed as a disposable element, eliminating the need for expensive, complex, and expensive laboratory equipment while maintaining adequate measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If professional testing authorities perform testing, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables individuals to perform testing themselves without requiring professional expertise. The system combines a simple magnifying lens (50-100x) with a camera and automated analysis software that processes the captured images to determine sperm count, motility, and morphology. This self-service capability allows users to conduct tests at home using their own smartphone or camera, eliminating the need to visit professional testing authorities while maintaining measurement precision through automated analysis.
4Productivity
If frequent testing is performed, then productivity is improved, but loss of time and expense increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the testing process into simple, sequential steps that can be quickly performed: (1) place specimen on carrier, (2) attach carrier to device, (3) capture image with camera, (4) automated analysis. This segmentation of the testing process into discrete, rapid steps enables frequent testing without significant time burden, as each complete test cycle can be accomplished quickly at home without requiring lengthy preparation or analysis time.
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 affordable, user-friendly, and efficient testing of biological specimens at home, reducing the need for expensive laboratory equipment and facilitating informed decision-making for fertility assessments without the need for professional expertise.
Implementation Method 1
The detachable cover includes a magnifying component configured to align with the specimen holding area. The focal length of the magnifying component is from 0.1 mm to 8.5 mm. The magnifying component has a linear magnification ratio of at least 1.0.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclose a device for testing biological specimen. The device includes a sample carrier and a detachable cover. The sample carrier includes a specimen holding area. The detachable cover is placed on top of the specimen holding area. The detachable cover includes a magnifying component configured to align with the specimen holding area. The focal length of the magnifying component is from 0.1 mm to 8.5 mm. The magnifying component has a linear magnification ratio of at least 1. Some embodiments further include a multi-camera configuration. These embodiments include a first camera module and a second camera module arranged to capture one or more images of the first holding area and the second holding area, respectively. The processor may perform different analytic processes on the captured images of different holding areas to determine an outcome with regard to the biological specimen.