Surface Contaminant Detection Using Fluorescence and Laptop Cameras
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies lack effective methods for detecting contaminants, particularly pathogenic bacteria, on surfaces using visible light fluorescent spectroscopy in combination with mobile technology, leading to potential spread of illnesses and inconsistencies in hygiene compliance.
Innovation Solution
A portable computer-based system with a camera, light emitter, and software that generates and detects specific excitation wavelengths for contaminants, providing real-time feedback on contamination levels and recommending remediation actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If visible light fluorescent spectroscopy is used to detect contaminants, then detection capability for pathogenic bacteria is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable computer serves multiple functions: it acts as the detection system, processing unit, display device, and communication interface all in one device. The camera captures images, the processor analyzes fluorescent signals, and the screen displays results - eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a standard camera to capture images of contaminants rather than requiring specialized detection hardware. By copying the visual information through the camera and processing it computationally, the system achieves detection capability without the complexity of dedicated optical detection instruments.
2Reliability
If real-time contaminant detection is implemented, then hygiene compliance consistency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs detection periodically rather than continuously - when a contaminant is suspected or during specific hygiene monitoring intervals. The camera captures images only when needed, and the processor analyzes them at appropriate moments, reducing energy consumption while maintaining consistent hygiene compliance through timely detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable computer utilizes its own existing resources (camera, processor, display, battery) to perform the detection function without requiring external power-intensive equipment. The system serves itself by leveraging the computational and optical capabilities already present in the device, minimizing additional energy consumption.
3Ease of operation
If portable computer-based detection system is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system adjusts detection parameters dynamically based on the specific contaminant being detected and the lighting conditions. The processor modifies analysis parameters such as fluorescence wavelength ranges, image exposure settings, and detection sensitivity thresholds to optimize both ease of operation and measurement precision for different contamination scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback through the display screen showing detected contaminants and their locations in real-time. This feedback mechanism guides the user on proper positioning and detection procedures, improving ease of operation while maintaining precision through iterative adjustment based on the displayed results.
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 effectively identifies various contaminants on surfaces, reducing the spread of pathogens and ensuring consistent hygiene compliance by providing immediate and actionable feedback.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitter capable of generating light of with least one excitation wavelength for a specific contaminant present in its output spectrum
Data Source
AI summary
A contaminant detection system for a portable computer with the computer having a camera, an integral screen and central processing unit (CPU; a. an enclosure having at least one grasper disposed for coupling the system to the portable computer; b. a light emitter capable of generating light of with least one excitation wavelength for a contaminant present in its output spectrum with output of the emitter oriented into the field of view of the camera; c. electronic communication between the computer and the emitter; c. software loaded onto the computer capable of (1) activating the emitter, (2) comparing a scene recorded by the camera to at least one emission wavelength for the specific contaminant corresponding to the excitation wavelength, and (3) displaying an output on the computer's screen corresponding to the areas within the camera's field of view where the contaminant is present in amounts greater than a detection threshold.