Specimen Container Quality Check Module Using Multi-Angle 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated testing systems face challenges in accurately assessing the integrity of biological specimens due to interferents like hemolysis, icterus, lipemia, clots, bubbles, and foam, especially when specimen containers are labeled, making it difficult to visually inspect the specimens without manual intervention, which is subjective and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A quality check module equipped with cameras and spectrally-switchable light sources provides imaging and characterization of specimen containers and their contents, using back lighting and high dynamic range image processing to quantify serum and plasma volumes, detect artifacts, and identify interferents, even when labels obscure the view.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If barcode labels are adhered to specimen containers for identification and tracking, then specimen identification and automation are improved, but visual inspection of specimen integrity is obscured and becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D visual inspection to 3D imaging by capturing images from multiple angles (front, back, left, right, top, bottom) and reconstructing a three-dimensional model of the specimen container. This allows the inspection system to see through and around barcode labels, detecting specimen integrity issues like hemolysis, clots, and improper fill levels that would be obscured in traditional 2D views.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital 3D copy or virtual model of the physical specimen container based on multiple 2D images captured from different viewpoints. This digital twin allows for comprehensive inspection of specimen integrity without physically removing or rotating the labeled container, enabling detection of issues that would be hidden by barcode labels in direct view.
2Measurement precision
If manual visual inspection is performed to assess specimen integrity, then detection of interferents like hemolysis and clots is possible, but subjectivity and human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the human visual inspection system with an automated imaging and image processing system. Multiple cameras capture images from different angles, and software algorithms automatically analyze the 3D reconstructed model to detect specimen interferents such as hemolysis, clots, bubbles, and improper fill levels. This eliminates subjective human judgment and provides consistent, objective assessment across all specimens.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automated feedback by analyzing the 3D images and generating objective assessments of specimen integrity. The image processing algorithms compare detected features against predetermined criteria to determine whether specimens are acceptable or require rejection, providing consistent feedback without human variability.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If manual rotation of specimen containers is performed to find unobstructed views, then complete visual inspection is achieved, but time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by capturing all necessary images from multiple predetermined angles simultaneously or in rapid sequence before any rotation or manual manipulation is needed. The multi-view imaging system is pre-configured to capture front, back, left, right, top, and bottom views, eliminating the need for subsequent manual rotation to obtain complete inspection data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotation process with a stationary multi-angle imaging system. Instead of physically rotating the specimen container to view all surfaces, multiple cameras are positioned at different angles to capture complete 3D information while the container remains stationary, dramatically increasing throughput and eliminating mechanical manipulation.
4Measurement precision
If spectrally-switchable light sources are used for imaging, then detection of interferents like hemolysis and lipemia is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spectral parameter of illumination by using light sources that can switch between different wavelengths or spectral distributions. By illuminating specimens with specific wavelengths, the system enhances the contrast and detectability of particular interferents - for example, certain wavelengths may highlight hemolysis while others emphasize lipemia or icterus, allowing the same imaging system to detect multiple types of specimen issues by adjusting only the light source parameters.
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 precise and automated pre-analytical screening of specimens, ensuring accurate specimen handling and analysis by minimizing human error and maintaining the speed of analyzer test results, while functioning on labeled containers without the need for manual rotation.
Implementation Method 1
one or a plurality of spectrally-switchable light sources each including a light panel assembly located adjacent to the imaging location and configured to provide lighting for the cameras, the spectrally-switchable light source configured to be operatively switchable between multiple different spectra
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of cameras located at one or more viewpoints adjacent to the imaging location
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4A
AI summary
A quality check module for characterizing a specimen and/or a specimen container. The quality check module includes an imaging location within the quality check module configured to receive a specimen container containing a specimen, one or more cameras located at one or more viewpoints adjacent to the imaging location, and one or more spectrally-switchable light source including a light panel assembly located adjacent the imaging location and configured to provide lighting for the one or more cameras, the spectrally-switchable light source configured to be operatively switchable between multiple different spectra. Methods of imaging a specimen and/or specimen container and specimen, and specimen testing apparatus including a quality check module adapted to carry out the method are described herein, as are other aspects.