Test Strip Color Analysis Switching Without Backup Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Preparing backup machines for analysis devices that measure test strip color states is burdensome due to high costs and space requirements, necessitating a solution that allows analysis without such backups.
Innovation Solution
An analysis device with a measurement unit that measures test strip color states and an imaging unit that captures images, enabling analysis through a switching mechanism between direct measurement and image-based analysis, allowing the use of a detachable operation unit for image-based analysis when the measurement unit fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a backup machine is prepared for measurement failure, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the measurement function and image analysis function into a single integrated device. The measurement unit and imaging unit share common hardware resources (light source, optical path, processor), eliminating the need for separate backup machines while maintaining measurement reliability through alternative analysis methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with multi-functionality, where the same hardware system can perform both measurement-based analysis and image-based analysis. This universal design allows the device to adapt to different analysis needs without requiring additional specialized equipment.
2Reliability
If a backup machine is prepared, then reliability is improved, but installation space requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple functions (measurement and image analysis) into one device, the patent eliminates the need for separate backup machines, thereby reducing the total installation space required while maintaining system reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If image-based analysis is used instead of measurement, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an image capture unit as an intermediary method when the direct measurement function is unavailable. The image analysis serves as a substitute that, while potentially less precise than direct measurement, provides sufficient adaptability for continued operation without requiring backup equipment.
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 test strip analysis without a backup machine, reducing user burden by allowing image-based analysis when the measurement unit is unavailable, thus eliminating the need for additional equipment and space.
Implementation Method 1
a measurement unit that measures a color state of a test strip
Implementation Method 2
measures a color state of a test strip
Implementation Method 3
an imaging unit that captures an image of the color state of the test strip
Data Source
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AI summary
An analysis device (10) includes: a measurement unit that measures a color state of a test strip under a certain condition; an imaging unit (20) that captures an image of the color state of the test strip; an analysis unit that analyzes the color state from the captured image obtained by imaging by the imaging unit (20); and a switching unit that selectively switches between a first mode in which the measurement unit measures the color state and a second mode in which the analysis unit analyzes the color state from the captured image.