Video test strip reader and method for evaluating test strips

摘要

A video test strip reader (10) uses a video imager or camera (12) for viewing a viewing field (14) containing reagent test strips (16) each having test pads (28) reacted with a specimen containing constituents of interest. The video imager produces an analog signal representing an image of the viewing field. An image handler (18) coupled to the video imager converts or digitizes the analog signal into a digital signal representing the image and stores the image in the form of an array of pixels representing the image. Each pixel contains color information broken down into red, green or blue (RGB). A processor (24) coupled to the image handler analyzes the array of pixels, determines the location and orientation of a test strip, identifies the test areas on the test strip, measures the corresponding test areas on the strip at the proper times and calculates the test results, such as the concentration of the constituents of interest in the specimen or other measurable properties of the specimen such as color or specific gravity, etc. Accordingly, the video test strip reader can simultaneously locate, color analyze and time track multiple test strips on the viewing field. IMAGE