Automated Urinalysis Device with Multi-LED Optical Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current urinalysis devices are not suitable for home use due to their complexity, high cost, and lack of user-friendly features, often relying on manual interpretation of test strips which can lead to human error and inaccurate results.
Innovation Solution
A user-friendly, automated urinalysis device with an interactive touchscreen display, multiple LED light sources, a timer system, and digital storage for data logging, allowing for accurate and easy analysis of urine samples with features like error checking and user verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated electronic analysis is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual interpretation of test strips with an automated electronic device that uses optical sensors and image processing to analyze urine samples. The device captures images of the test strip pads and uses software algorithms to determine analyte concentrations, eliminating human error in color interpretation while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through the use of standard camera modules and LED light sources.
2Measurement precision
If multiple LED light sources are used, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses multiple LED light sources with different wavelengths (e.g., blue, green, red, UV) that are activated sequentially rather than simultaneously. The control system turns on specific LEDs at different time intervals to illuminate the test strip pads for optical analysis. This periodic activation of individual LEDs reduces overall energy consumption compared to having all LEDs on continuously, while still providing the full spectrum of light wavelengths needed for accurate colorimetric analysis of different analytes.
3Reliability
If timing mechanism is added, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates an automated timing mechanism that automatically tracks the elapsed time since the test strip was dipped in the urine sample. The timer is integrated into the device's control system and automatically prompts the user to insert the test strip at the appropriate time interval. This self-service timing function ensures that tests are performed within the optimal time window for accurate results without requiring the user to manually time the procedure, and the timing logic is implemented through simple software control rather than complex mechanical mechanisms.
4Loss of information
If data logging capability is added, then loss of information is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device includes data logging capability that automatically stores test results, timestamps, and analysis data in internal memory. The system creates digital copies of each test result and maintains a historical record of multiple tests. This allows users to review past results and track trends over time. The data logging function is implemented through straightforward software that writes results to storage memory, avoiding the need for complex external data management systems while preventing information loss.
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 device provides accurate and reliable urinalysis results with reduced human error, allowing users to easily interpret their data over time through graphical displays and remote access, while ensuring tests are conducted within the appropriate timeframe.
Implementation Method 1
at least two light emitting diode (LED) light sources, housed in the housing and including a white LED and a red-blue-green (RBG) LED
Implementation Method 2
a camera module housed in the housing, both the plurality of LEDs and the camera module directed to an illumination and detection zone
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary urinalysis device for non-clinical use is described as having: a housing; a touchscreen on the housing; a test strip holder, which is removably, slidably engaged with the housing; at least two light emitting diode (LED) light sources, housed in the housing and including a white LED and a red-blue-green (RBG) LED; a camera module housed in the housing, both the plurality of LEDs and the camera module directed to an illumination and detection zone; a timer system; and/or a computational system in electronic communication with the plurality of LEDs, the camera module and the timer system, the computational system including a processor and a memory. Related methods and systems also are described.