Test Strip Analyser Movable Support Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test strip analysis methods are inconvenient, unsanitary, and prone to inaccurate results due to manual dipping and reliance on naked eye color comparison for urine or blood sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
A test strip analyser with a movable support mechanism and optical system, including a light sensor and controller, that automates the test strip immersion and image capture, allowing precise timing and accurate analysis without manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual dipping method is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to inaccurate timing and subjective color comparison
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical dipping operation with an automated mechanical system. A movable support structure automatically lowers the test strip into the sample container and raises it after the reaction time, eliminating manual timing errors. The optical system (light sensor and controller) replaces subjective visual color comparison with objective photometric measurement, significantly improving measurement precision while accepting increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable support structure is designed to automatically control the immersion and removal timing of the test strip. The system serves itself by having the mechanical structure perform the timing function that previously required human operation, ensuring consistent and accurate reaction times for each compound being tested.
2Ease of operation
If automated movable support is introduced, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional mechanical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable support structure with driving mechanisms to replace manual test strip handling. This mechanical substitution automates the dipping and removal process, making operation easier and more consistent while necessarily increasing device complexity through motors, guides, and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing dynamic adjustment of the test strip position. The structure can be lowered into and raised from the sample container as needed, providing ease of operation through automation while the mechanical complexity is contained within the movable assembly rather than the entire device.
3Measurement precision
If optical system with light sensor is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the human visual system with an optical detection system consisting of a light sensor and controller. This substitution provides objective, quantitative measurement of color changes on the test strip, eliminating subjective bias and improving precision. The optical system is more complex than simple visual comparison but provides significantly more reliable and precise measurements.
4Reliability
If automated timing mechanism is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable support structure incorporates automatic timing control where the system itself manages the immersion duration. The mechanism lowers the test strip, maintains it in the sample for the required reaction time, and automatically raises it, ensuring reliable and consistent timing without requiring external timing devices or complex control systems.
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
Provides a convenient, sanitary, and accurate method for analyzing samples by automating the test strip immersion and image processing, reducing human error and improving the reliability of results.
Implementation Method 1
The light sensor is configured to capture an image of the test strip
Data Source
AI summary
A test strip analyser is provided. The test strip analyser includes a frame, a test control module and an optical system. The test control module is disposed in the frame and includes a test strip carrier of a plurality of test strip carriers and a sample container of a plurality of sample containers. The test strip carrier is disposed on the frame and adapted to hold a test strip. The sample container is adapted to contain a sample. The optical system is disposed above the frame and the test control module and includes a light sensor and controller. The light sensor is configured to capture an image of the test strip. The controller is connected to the light sensor to control the light sensor, and the light sensor feedbacks the image to the controller. In addition, an analysing method using the same is also provided.