JP2007212261A - Test paper measuring instrument and test paper measuring method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a test paper measuring instrument capable of measuring test paper without troubles, even if the test papers are placed on a measuring part at random, further, even if the test papers are fed to a placement measuring part in a random state, and to provide a test paper measuring method. <P>SOLUTION: The test paper measuring instrument is equipped with an imaging element for performing imaging so as to contain the test paper, a memory for storing the imaged RGB digital image data, and a microprocessor for extracting the digital image data of the target test paper from the data on the memory. Since the position and the attitude of the test paper can be detected, the test paper can be measured without troubles, even if the test paper is placed on the placing part at random and, further, the test paper is fed to the measuring part in a random state. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a test paper measuring apparatus and a measuring method for measuring using a test paper. Specifically, even if a test paper is placed randomly on a measuring unit or placed on a transport device to a measuring unit, The present invention relates to a test strip measuring apparatus and a measuring method capable of measuring without hindrance.

  In a test paper analyzer that measures the components in a liquid sample using a stick-shaped test paper with a colored test piece affixed to a stick made of plastic or the like, the measurer immerses the test paper in the liquid sample. After that, it is transported to the measurement unit by the transport mechanism, or there is no transport mechanism and the measurer himself places the test paper on the measurement unit.

  The conventional measuring device has a function to detect the position of a test paper (or a colored test piece that is spotted in the case of a stick-shaped test paper in which a color test piece is attached to a stick made of plastic or the like). Therefore, since it was necessary for the color test piece to occupy the entire measurement range of the detection mechanism, it was necessary to place the color test piece so as to occupy the entire measurement range of the detection mechanism. However, since the detection mechanism of the device is fixed, in order for the test strip color test piece to occupy the entire measurement range of the detection mechanism, the test paper is accurately placed at a limited predetermined placement position. However, since the placement direction and position of the test paper must be fixed, the test paper could not be placed randomly.

  In addition, a device that corrects the posture to be fixed in the measurement unit even if it is randomly placed is known, but even if it is randomly transported to the measurement unit or placed randomly on the measurement unit. However, an apparatus that can measure without any problem is not yet known.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228561 proposes a method for imaging using an image sensor. In this patent specification, it is described that “the test piece is recognized and corrected even when the position of the test piece is deviated”, but the range crossing the color test portion on the test paper is measured. Therefore, in practice, only the displacement of the placement position of the transport surface in the long side direction of the test paper could be corrected. If it is placed randomly, it cannot be measured.

  Further, Patent Document 2 discloses that a CCD color image sensor is used to measure RGB, tristimulus values XYZ or chromaticity coordinates in an apparatus in which a measurement person himself places the test paper on a measurement unit without a transport mechanism. A color determination device is disclosed. However, in this apparatus, the test paper is placed and fixed at a predetermined placement position and measured, and there is no idea to measure without any trouble even if the test paper is placed randomly. In fact, this patent specification also states that “the shape of the target test paper (in the test paper image data is read by reading the arrangement information corresponding to the test paper identification information acquired by the apparatus by the input of the measurer”). As it is clear from the fact that the device does not automatically extract the test paper, the displacement of the test paper placement position is eliminated. Could not correct.

  Further, the conventional apparatus includes a test paper transport path or a placement portion (location) having a placement portion (place) for placing a single test paper, and places a plurality of test papers. A test paper measuring apparatus having a test paper transport path (multiple rows of test paper transport paths) having a placement section (place) to obtain or a placement section (place) on which a plurality of test papers can be placed is completely known. Absent. Since the conventional apparatus for transporting the test paper transports the test paper intermittently and measures it one by one in a stationary state, it can be measured if a plurality of test papers can be placed. Because there was not. In addition, the conventional apparatus in which the measurement person himself / herself places the test paper on the measurement unit without the transport mechanism measures the test paper one by one, and the idea of measuring a plurality of test papers at a time. There was no.

Furthermore, in a conventional test paper analyzer in which a measurer immerses a test paper in a sample by a method and then places the test paper on the device and transports it to the measuring unit, it has only a single test paper transport path. The test paper could not be placed on the apparatus at any timing because it was not transported and was transported intermittently.
JP 7-5110 A JP-A-10-73534

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such points, and even when the test paper is placed randomly on the placement measurement (placement and measurement) section, the test paper is further measured in a random state. An object of the present invention is to provide a test paper measuring apparatus and a measuring method that can measure without trouble even if the paper is transported to a section. Conventionally, such a measuring apparatus and measuring method are not known at all.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a measuring apparatus and a measuring method capable of measuring even when a plurality of test papers are placed on the measurement unit, or even when the test papers are conveyed to the measurement unit in a plurality of rows. .

  It is another object of the present invention to provide a measuring apparatus and a measuring method that not only eliminate the restriction on the position for placing the test paper but also place the test paper on the apparatus at any timing.

  The measuring apparatus according to claim 1 of the present invention that meets the above-described object includes an image sensor that captures an image so as to include a test paper, a memory that stores captured RGB digital image data, and a target test based on the data on the memory. And a microprocessor for extracting digital image data of paper.

  Here, the test paper is included because, for example, a test strip (test piece) used in the field of urinalysis, dry chemistry, etc., which can be colored to perform a desired measurement (colored test piece: presenting). This means that all of the color portion is included. For example, a part or all of a test paper made of filter paper is impregnated with a reagent, and in the case of a test paper such as a stick that is colored by that part, it is the whole, and for example, a stick made of plastic etc. In the case of a stick-shaped test paper with a colored test piece attached, it means that all the colored test pieces are included. It is preferable to include the entire test paper, but the hand-held portion of the stick-shaped test paper that is not colored (not measured) may not necessarily be included. The hand-held part is, for example, a non-colored part (reagent-free part) for the measurer to handle the test paper, and is longer than other non-colored parts (reagent-free part). This is the edge of the test paper. For example, in the case of a stick-shaped test paper with a colored test piece attached to a stick made of plastic or the like, the color test piece for the measurer to handle the test paper is not attached. This is a test paper base portion at the rear end that is longer than the portion where the test piece is not attached.

  The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is formed so as to exhibit an RGB value different from the color before and after the coloration of the test paper, and the microprocessor has R, G, and R different from the colors before and after the coloration. The test paper is detected based on an upper limit or / and lower limit threshold value of at least one of the B values, and a digital image data of the detected test paper is extracted. Image data can be extracted (claim 2).

  Here, forming the placement surface so as to show different RGB values from the colors before and after the test paper is colored means that the color of the placement surface is the color before the test paper including all the colored test pieces. A color showing a value larger than the maximum value among at least one of RGB values (one or more values selected from R, G, and B) indicated by the color and the color after coloring, or all color tests A value smaller than the minimum value among at least one of RGB values (one or more values selected from R, G, and B) indicated by the color before and after coloring of the test paper including the piece Means the color shown. Note that at least one value of RGB values (one or more values selected from R, G, and B) is all three values of R, G, and B, and two of R, G, and B It means a value (R and G, R and B, G and B) or one of R, G and B (R, G or B). That is, all three values of R, G, and B, two values of R, G, and B or one value of R, G, and B include all color test pieces At least one value of the corresponding RGB value indicated by the color before and after coloring the paper (all three values of R, G and B, two values of R, G and B, or RGB values indicated by the color before and after coloring of the test paper including all the colored test pieces so as to be larger than the maximum value of one of R, G and B) Less than the minimum value of at least one value (all three values of R, G, and B, two values of R, G, and B or one value of R, G, and B) What should I do.

  When the test paper is a stick-shaped test paper obtained by attaching a color test piece to a stick made of plastic or the like, the microprocessor extracts the digital image data of the stick-shaped test paper and then performs the color test. It is preferable to provide a program for extracting a piece of digital image data.

  The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is formed so as to exhibit an RGB value different from the color of the stick constituting the test paper, and the microprocessor performs R, G of the color of the stick constituting the test paper. And a test paper that includes a program for detecting the test paper image based on an upper limit or / and a lower threshold of at least one of the B values and extracting digital image data of the detected test paper. The digital image data can be extracted.

  Here, to form the placement surface so as to show an RGB value different from the color of the stick constituting the test paper, the color of the placement surface is set to at least one of the RGB values indicated by the color of the stick (R , One or more values selected from G, B), or smaller than at least one of RGB values (one or more values selected from R, G, and B) indicated by the stick color Means a color indicating a value. Note that at least one value of RGB values (one or more values selected from R, G, and B) is all three values of R, G, and B, and two of R, G, and B It means a value (R and G, R and B, G and B) or one of R, G and B (R, G or B). That is, all three values of R, G, and B, two values of R, G, and B or one value of R, G, and B are corresponding RGB values indicated by the color of the stick. Greater than at least one value (all three values of R, G, and B, two values of R, G, and B or one value of R, G, and B) Or at least one of the corresponding RGB values indicated by the color of the stick (all three values of R, G and B, two values of R, G and B or of R, G and B) What is necessary is just to make it smaller than one kind of value).

  The microprocessor includes: a program for performing binarization or shading processing for clarifying the outer shape of the extraction target test paper image on the memory; and a program for performing an edge search on the outer shape of the extraction target test paper image. Thus, the digital image data of the test paper can be extracted.

  As binarization or shading processing, for example, gradation analysis is performed on the light and dark information of each pixel of the image, a threshold value is set, and binarization processing is divided into white and black depending on whether it is brighter or darker More accurate gray processing that treats an image as a grayscale image with, for example, 256 gradations (when the data size is 1 byte), and further, each RGB of a color image has, for example, 256 gradations (the data size of each RGB is 1 byte) Color binarization processing that extracts only the reference color and separates it into other colors by dividing each image into two by color, for example, each of RGB of the color image is 256 gradations (data size is 1 byte) In this case, color density processing for extracting a reference color and converting the difference in the reference color into, for example, grayscale data of 256 gradations (when the data size is 1 byte) can be given.

  An edge is a boundary between a bright part and a dark part generated in an image, and an edge search is to detect a boundary of this light and shade change by image processing.

  The measuring device of the present invention may be provided with a mounting unit having a mounting surface on which the test paper is mounted, as a separate body or as an integral part of the device (Claim 6). In short, the mounting portion having the mounting surface described above may be independent of the device (device itself), or may be integrated with the device (device main body) or separate from the device (device main body). The device itself includes a device that does not include such a placement unit. As a case where it is independent from the apparatus (apparatus itself), for example, an arbitrary surface such as a desk, an appropriate paper, an upper surface of a plate, or the like can be used as the mounting portion. This configuration eliminates the need for a test paper transport mechanism and allows for a cheaper device. In addition, measurement can be performed without contacting any part of the device itself with the test paper. Contamination can be eliminated and maintenance burden can be reduced. In particular, when a paper or the like that can be easily discarded is used for the mounting portion, the maintenance burden can be greatly reduced.

  Further, the apparatus of the present invention uses the mounting surface as a transport surface in a transport mechanism for transporting the test paper to a measurement unit that is imaged so as to include the test paper by the image sensor, and a liquid sample is dropped or impregnated. The test paper thus placed may be placed on the placement surface and automatically conveyed to the measurement unit by the conveyance mechanism (Claim 7).

  In the case where there is no transport mechanism and the measurer himself places the test paper on the measurement unit, or when the above-mentioned arbitrary one is used as the placement unit, a plurality of test papers can be measured at a time. The placing part is preferably formed wide so that a plurality of test papers can be placed, and the placing part comprises a transport mechanism having a transport surface for transporting the test paper to the measurement part. In some cases, when the measurer tries to place the test paper, the test paper transport surface is always in the standby state (a place where the test paper can be placed is secured on the test paper transport surface). Therefore, it is preferable that the transport surface is formed wide so that a plurality of test papers can be placed, and a plurality of rows of test paper transport paths for transporting the plurality of test papers are formed. 8, 9).

  The imaging element is a linear image sensor, and the linear image sensor is arranged so as to be able to image the test paper passing below in the width direction of the test paper transport surface, thereby simultaneously applying a plurality of test papers. Images can be taken continuously (claim 10).

  The transport mechanism for transporting the test paper is configured so that the test paper can be transported continuously rather than being configured to be able to transport the test paper intermittently, that is, the test paper transport surface is intermittent during the measurement. However, it is preferable that the motor is configured to move at a constant speed (without stopping) because the structure becomes simple. Furthermore, it is preferable to form the conveyance surface wide because a plurality of conveyance rows are formed, so that the measurer can randomly place them at any time (claim 11).

  It is preferable that a white plate for correction is disposed in a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper can be obtained.

  A color tone table for determining rank determination can be arranged at a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained. The color tone table is preferably used for determining a threshold value for rank determination.

  The measuring device according to the present invention is a measuring device that can measure even when the test paper is placed or transported in a measuring section in a different posture. (Claim 15) Also, the test paper is a urine test paper. It is suitable as a test paper measuring device (claim 16). Here, the different posture means that the test paper does not need to be placed in a predetermined placement position (a constant placement direction / position), and the posture of the test paper is different for each measurement (the test paper is turned over) This means that the direction and position of each test paper is not constant.

  In the measurement method of the present invention, an image sensor is used to capture an image of a test strip, the captured RGB digital image data is transferred to a memory, and the target test strip digital image data is transferred from the data on the memory to a microprocessor. A value based on at least one of the R, G and B values obtained and extracted using the at least one value of the corresponding R, G and B values of a standard test strip stored in advance in memory The concentration of the object to be measured is measured as compared with the value based on (Claim 16). Here, the value based on at least one of the R, G, and B values of the standard test paper is the R, G of the test paper when a sample-containing sample (standard, calibrator, etc.) having a known concentration is used. And a value based on at least one of the B values, or at least the R, G, and B values of the color chart equivalent to that of the test paper when using a sample-containing sample having a known concentration set in a predetermined apparatus It means a value based on one value. The value based on at least one of the R, G, and B values is at least one of the R, G, and B values itself (all three values of R, G, and B, R, G, and B 2 values of them or 1 value of R, G and B), values obtained by converting from at least one of R, G and B values (for example, values in chromaticity coordinates), etc. is there.

  The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is a color indicating an RGB value different from the color before and after the coloration of the test paper, and R, G, and B values set in advance based on the degree of coloration of the test paper The test paper is detected by a microprocessor based on an upper limit or / and lower limit threshold of at least one value, digital image data of the detected test paper is extracted, and the obtained R, G, and B values are Comparing the value based on at least one value with a value based on at least one of the corresponding R, G and B values of a standard test strip pre-stored in memory to measure the concentration of the object to be measured (Claim 18).

  When the test paper is a stick-shaped test paper in which a colored test piece is attached to a stick made of plastic or the like, the microprocessor extracts the digital image data of the stick-shaped test paper, and then displays the presentation paper. A digital image of the color test strip is extracted, and a value based on at least one of the obtained R, G, and B values is calculated for the corresponding R, G, and B values of the standard test strip stored in advance in memory. It is preferable to measure the concentration of the object to be measured as compared with a value based on at least one value (claim 19).

  The color of the placement surface on which the test paper is placed is a color indicating an RGB value different from the color of the stick constituting the test paper, and the microprocessor is based on the color of the stick constituting the test paper. A test paper image is detected, digital image data of the detected test paper is extracted, and a value based on at least one of the obtained RGB values is determined as at least one of the RGB values of the standard test paper stored in the memory in advance. Compared to a value based on one value, the concentration of the object to be measured can be measured (claim 20).

  The digital image in the memory can be extracted by clarifying the outer shape of the target test paper image to be detected by binarization or density processing, and performing an edge search on the outer shape.

  The mounting surface of the test paper can be used as a transport surface of a transport mechanism for transporting the test paper to the measurement unit, and the test paper can be transported to the measurement unit by the transport mechanism.

  Preferably, the image sensor is a linear image sensor, and the test paper passing under the linear image sensor is continuously imaged (Claim 23).

  It is preferable that a correction white plate is provided at a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained to perform gradation correction of the RGB values.

  It is possible to perform rank determination by arranging a color tone table at a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained. It is preferable to arrange a color tone table to obtain a threshold value for rank determination, and to perform rank determination based on the obtained threshold value.

  Since the work is facilitated by placing the test paper in a free posture on the measuring unit or transporting it to the measuring unit (Claim 27), it is suitable as a test paper measuring method for urinalysis (Claim). 28).

According to the present invention, no matter how the test paper is placed on the placement measuring unit or the conveyance surface to the measurement unit, the measurement can be performed without any trouble, so that the restriction of the test paper placement position is substantially eliminated and the measurement operability is improved. Remarkably improved.
Further, according to the invention described in claim 6, a plurality of (rows) can be placed on the measurement unit or conveyed to the measurement unit in a plurality of rows, so that the test paper can be placed at any timing of the measurer. it can.

  In the present invention, in the case of simply a test paper, it is meant to include a test piece that can be colored (colored test piece) itself for performing a desired measurement and the entire test paper having one or more such test pieces. However, it may mean only the entire test paper in order to distinguish it from the colored test piece that has been stuck. For example, in the case of a stick-shaped test paper, there are a case of the whole and a case of meaning an attached test piece. When extracting the test paper in one step, it means the test piece that can be colored, but when extracting in two steps, the first step is a stick-shaped test paper and the second step can be colored. Meaning of test piece.

  Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the present invention, and images are taken continuously as a stick-shaped test paper sequentially passes under an elongated CCD linear image sensor (imaging device) orthogonal to the test paper transport belt. It is like that.

  It is preferable that the CCD linear image sensor is configured to be orthogonal to the test paper transport belt because the test paper reaches the image sensor in the order of placement. However, even if the test papers do not reach the image sensor in the order of placement, if the order of the test papers that have reached the image sensor can be corrected from the oblique intersection angle (about), The sensor may be crossed obliquely without being orthogonal to the belt.

  The image sensor used in the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it can capture images as RGB digital image data. Examples of such a sensor include an image sensor such as a monochrome image sensor combined with a color image sensor or a color filter, such as a CCD image sensor, a CMOS image sensor, or a VMIS image sensor. The image sensor includes a linear image sensor and an area image sensor, and any of them can be used in the present invention, but it is preferable to use a linear image sensor.

  The test paper being conveyed can be imaged as a continuous screen, or can be imaged by a predetermined length (range) (in units of pages).

  When transporting multiple test papers at the same time, if one test paper image data is divided due to limitations on memory capacity that can be handled at one time (that is, test papers in which the entire image is not captured) In addition, when a predetermined length (range) is imaged, a test paper in which the entire image is not captured may be generated. In such a case, the image data of the divided test papers may be reconstructed by connecting them by image processing.

  It should be noted that the data after image processing / extraction is preferably deleted sequentially so that the memory capacity is not exceeded.

  The pixel coordinates are set simultaneously with the start of imaging, and the pixel coordinates increase as the imaging area increases. The image data is pixel coordinates and RGB values at the coordinates, that is, RGB amounts (intensities) at each point expressed numerically (gradation data).

  From this pixel coordinate, the “position detection” of the test paper can be performed regardless of the number of test papers, so the order in which the test papers are placed can be detected, and the test paper of which specimen the image can be identified.

  The sample and the measurement result are associated with each other in the measurement order, and the measurement order is the order of the test paper to be detected. If the heads of the plurality of test papers completely coincide, the apparatus cannot associate the sample with the measurement result. However, since it takes 5 to 8 seconds to take out the test paper, immerse it in the sample, and place it on the apparatus, it is usually unthinkable that the tops of the test paper completely coincide. If the tops of the test papers completely match, it is possible that something abnormal has occurred, so it is advisable to issue an error message to check the status and re-measure.

  The above is a case where a plurality of test papers are conveyed in the long side direction as shown in FIG. 1 and the like. In the case of one test paper, the comparison of the top positions of the test papers or the order in which the test papers are placed is performed. No decision is necessary. Also, when transporting horizontally, multiple test papers do not enter the detection / measurement mechanism at the same time. After the measurement of the test paper placed first is completed, the next test paper is detected and Since it enters the measurement mechanism, it is not necessary to detect the head position.

When measuring different types of test paper at the same time, it is necessary to determine the type of test paper. The type of test paper can be determined by any of the following three methods.
(1) The type of test paper is determined from the number of color test pieces and / or the color of the color test pieces. The number of color test pieces can be obtained by binarization processing or edge search of the obtained test paper image. . When there are two or more types of test papers having the same number of color test pieces, the color is determined by detecting the color of the color test pieces having different colors depending on the type of test paper. In the case of a test paper having a plurality of color test pieces, a combination (array) of the number of color test pieces and the color of the color test pieces (color before color and / or color after color) ), And the number of the colored test pieces according to the type of the test paper stored in advance and the combination (array) of the color of the colored test pieces are collated. Identification of the type and detection of the direction of the test paper can also be performed.
(2) The type of the test paper is determined by comparison with the image pattern of the color test piece of the test paper recorded in advance. In the case of a stick-shaped test paper, at least one of the R, G, and B values of the pixel coordinate image. It is possible to detect the hand-held portion of the test paper base from one value, and to detect the direction of the test paper that has been conveyed. In this way, the top part of the test paper (opposite end of the hand-held part) can be detected, so if the type of test paper is known, the order of the colored test strips at a specific position from this top part is also detected. it can. From this order, the type of test piece can be specified.
(3) The test paper type is determined by checking the correspondence between the test paper type stored in advance and the test paper mark. A specific mark (mark) corresponding to the test paper type is attached to the test paper base. In addition, if the correspondence between the mark and the type of test paper (which mark is which type of test paper) is stored in advance, the mark attached to the transported test paper is detected. Then, by comparing this with the correspondence relationship between the mark stored in advance and the type of test paper, the type of test paper that has been conveyed can be specified. Similarly, the direction of the test paper can be detected.
The methods (1) to (3) for determining the type of test paper are not only for measuring different types of test paper, but also for measuring one type (single) of test paper. Available. That is, if the above-described determination method is performed, the apparatus can automatically determine and specify the type of test paper, and it is unnecessary for the measurer to input the type of test paper to be used in the apparatus in advance.

  Also, since the sizes of the test paper and the colored test piece are known in advance, the size of the detected test paper and the colored test piece is confirmed from the pixel coordinates, and the detection is performed accurately. You can check.

Furthermore, from the RGB values of the pixel coordinate image, it is possible to detect an abnormal reaction such as a non-uniform reaction that occurs when the sample is impregnated non-uniformly or a non-hemolytic sample.
In the case of reflectance measurement by the conventional method, even if the reaction is non-uniform, only the reflectance data of the entire test piece can be obtained, so the non-uniform reaction cannot be detected, but in the present invention, the test paper (colored test piece) Since a large number of RGB value data at each pixel coordinate is obtained, a non-uniform reaction can be detected from the non-uniformity of the RGB value data.

  In addition, since the conventional method for measuring reflectance cannot identify the color, an abnormal reaction cannot be detected. However, in the present invention, the color is identified. If it is registered in advance as coordinate data, the other data can be detected as an abnormal reaction.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an image processing process after imaging.
A microprocessor reads a program, then receives data from a storage device such as a memory according to the instructions of the program, calculates and processes the data according to the program, and then outputs an output device such as a storage device such as a memory or a display (display device) Process to send to.

  In the case of the present invention, the microprocessor stores the RGB value data of the image captured from the image sensor (input device) in a memory, and then performs image processing, quantification / rank determination, and displays the data on a display or a printer (output device). ) To print.

  As a method for connecting the image sensor, the microprocessor, and the memory, for example, a frame buffer system shown in FIG. 3A and a FIFO system shown in FIG.

  In the frame buffer method, an image from an image sensor is stored in a memory by control logic, and an image in the memory is processed by a microprocessor via the control logic.

  In the FIFO method, an image from an image sensor is stored in a FIFO memory by a microprocessor, and an image in the FIFO memory is processed by the microprocessor.

  In any of the above systems, image processing such as “extraction” and “determination / rank determination” are performed by the microprocessor while referring to the data in the memory. For example, “extraction” is an image obtained by extracting a “test paper image” from a “total image” (including a test paper image and a background image such as a conveyor belt) stored in a memory. Is stored in another area on the memory, for example. If the “whole image” becomes unnecessary at this stage (for example, if there are multiple test paper images in the whole image and the last test paper image is extracted), the “whole image” is deleted from the memory. The freed memory is used for the next processing. The “quantitative / rank determination” is a method for obtaining data based on at least one of RGB values obtained from a measured color test piece, at least RGB values stored in a predetermined memory area. This is done by comparing with data based on one value.

  Next, a specific measuring method of the present invention in the case of stick-shaped test paper will be described.

  The image sensor transfers RGB value (digital) data of the captured image to the memory, and the image data transferred to the memory is stationary on the memory. In this state, the leading edge (or / and trailing edge) of the test paper is known.

  Next, a specific method for performing image processing and extraction on a memory will be described. The image on the memory is processed by the microprocessor with an image processing program as follows, and the target image is extracted, quantified, or ranked.

  (1) The image data in the memory is subjected to, for example, any one of “monochrome binarization processing”, “monochrome tone processing (gray processing)”, “color binarization processing”, and “color shading processing”. After that, an edge search is performed.

  (2) The partial image (the entire test paper) recognized based on the detected edge is compared with the image data of the test paper registered in advance, and the image portion of the test paper is detected and extracted. The image of the stick-shaped test paper extracted in this way is also stored in the memory.

  (3) The image data of the stick-shaped test paper in the memory is, for example, any one of “monochrome binarization processing”, “black and white density processing (gray processing)”, “color binarization processing”, and “color density processing” After performing the above process, an edge search is performed for the colored test piece.

  (4) The partial image recognized based on the detected edge is compared with the image data of the color test piece registered in advance, and the image portion of the color test piece is detected, extracted, and stored in the memory. .

  (5) The type of test paper is determined from the number of extracted color test pieces and the characteristic color arrangement, and the inspection items of each color test piece are determined.

(6) Next, quantitative determination or rank determination is performed. This determination and rank determination are performed using a value based on at least one of so-called R, G, and B values. The measurement result of each inspection item is a value based on at least one of the R, G, and B values of the extracted image, and the value and density based on at least one of the R, G, and B values serving as the reference. The density is calculated or the rank is determined using the relationship.
Here, at least one value of the R, G, and B values is one or more values selected from R, G, and B. That is, in the determination and rank determination of the present invention, all three values of R, G and B, two values of R, G and B (R and G, R and B, G and B), Alternatively, any one of R, G, and B (R, G, or B) may be used.
The value based on at least one of the R, G, and B values is at least one of the R, G, and B values itself (all three values of R, G, and B, R, G, and B 2 values of them or 1 value of R, G and B), and various values obtained by converting from at least one of RGB values, specifically, R, G and These are at least one value of the B value itself, a value in chromaticity coordinates obtained by conversion from at least one value of the R, G, and B values. In addition to the value in the chromaticity coordinate, all values obtained by conversion from at least one of R, G, and B values are included.
Specifically, for example, quantitative determination or rank determination is performed by the methods (a) to (f) described below.
(A) From at least one of the R, G, and B values of the extracted image, using the relationship between the density and the at least one of the R, G, and B values stored corresponding thereto, density calculation or Determine the rank.
(B) From at least one value of R, G and B values of the extracted image, using the relationship between at least one value of R, G and B values of the corresponding color tone table (standard) and the density, Is calculated or rank is determined.
(C) From at least one of the R, G and B values of the extracted image, obtained from a color test piece (control) measured in the same manner using a standard solution containing an analyte having a known concentration, Using the relationship between the density and the density of at least one of the corresponding RGB values, the density is calculated or the rank is determined.
(D) Converting the R, G, and B values of the extracted image into chromaticity coordinate parameters, and at least one value of the obtained chromaticity coordinate parameters, and correspondingly stored chromaticity The density is calculated or the rank is determined from the relationship between the value of at least one of the coordinate parameters and the density.
(E) Converting the R, G, and B values of the extracted image into chromaticity coordinate parameters, and obtaining at least one value of the obtained chromaticity coordinate parameters and the corresponding color tone table (standard) Based on the relationship between at least one value of the chromaticity coordinate parameters and the density, density calculation or rank determination is performed.
(F) Converting the R, G and B values of the extracted image into chromaticity coordinate parameters, and containing at least one value of the obtained chromaticity coordinate parameters and an analyte having a known concentration Calculate the density or determine the rank from the relationship between the density and the value of at least one of the corresponding chromaticity coordinate parameters obtained from the color test piece (control) measured in the same way using a standard solution, etc. .
As the standard solution, a plurality of standard solutions containing different concentrations are usually used. Further, the determination and rank determination in the present invention are not limited to the above methods (a) to (f).

  In the above embodiment, extraction is performed twice. However, only a portion of the color test piece may be extracted once. However, if it is extracted twice, it is preferable because this can be detected when the test paper placed for some reason is turned over.

That is, when only the color test piece is detected / extracted, the inverted test paper is not detected, and is transparent from the detection system of the apparatus. Therefore, the test result corresponding to the specimen is shifted.
As in the above example, it is performed in two stages of “detection / extraction of test paper” and “detection / extraction of colored test piece”.
(Detect and extract the entire test paper) + (No color test piece) → "Turn over the test paper"
And the inside out of the test paper can be detected.
The microprocessor converts the R, G, and B values into chromaticity coordinate data. The conversion of the R, G, and B values into chromaticity coordinates may be performed by a known method. For example, the R, G, and B values may be converted into tristimulus values XYZ through γ correction, and the tristimulus values XYZ may be converted into various color system parameters. It should be noted that the microprocessor normally performs conversion of at least one of the R, G, and B values to a value other than the value in the chromaticity coordinates.

  In order to detect the image data of the extraction target test paper (or color test strip) on the image data, the image data of the extraction target test paper (or color test strip) on the image data is stored in advance. You may compare with the test paper (or / and a color test piece) used as a standard. In other words, one or both of the images are used so that the image data of the extraction target test paper (or / and the color test piece) matches the image data of the standard test paper (or / and the color test piece). Data is moved or rotated on the pixel coordinates, and the matched image portion is detected. However, even if the orientation of the test paper varies, the pixel coordinates of the test paper (colored test piece) portion from which the RGB value data is to be read are determined by image processing. Therefore, position correction is performed when acquiring the target RGB data. Not necessary.

  At least one value (A) of the R, G, and B values of the belt (conveying surface) on which the test paper is placed corresponds to at least one of the R, G, and B values of the stick of the stick-shaped test paper. (B) and a corresponding coloration test piece and a coloration test piece that has been colored, by making the value different from at least one of the R, G, and B values (C), binarization or shading processing, edge Even without processing, the test paper / colored test piece can be detected and extracted from the entire image including the test paper / colored test piece and the background belt. In addition, when extracting a color test piece directly, all the R, G, and B values of the stick of the stick-shaped test paper are all the values of the R, G, and B values of the belt (conveying surface) to be placed. It may be the same.

  FIG. 4 shows an embodiment in which a stick-shaped urine test paper is measured with a black belt.

  Black represents R = 0, G = 0, and B = 0 when RGB values are expressed in 256 gradations from 0 to 255. Is most preferably black. The stick-shaped urine test paper usually has 1 to 10 colored test pieces attached to a white plastic base. Since white is R = 255, G = 255, B = 255, the belt image data is R = 0, G = 0, B = 0, and the base of the test paper is R = 255, G = 255, B = 255.

  When the RGB value of the color appearing with the color of the test piece is in the range of 50 to 200, for example, the lower limit threshold value of RGB value is set to 25 and the upper limit threshold value is set to 225. Thus, the image of the color test piece can be detected and extracted without edge processing. still. The lower threshold value may be smaller than 25 and larger than 0, and the upper threshold value may be larger than 200 and smaller than 255. When RGB of the image to be detected / extracted is a value larger than zero and smaller than 50, for example, R> 25, G> 25, B> 25, the entire stick-shaped test paper including the stick can be detected / extracted.

  After the entire test paper is detected and extracted, each test piece is stored separately in a memory, and in the same manner as described above, concentration measurement (quantitative) or rank determination is performed in comparison with the standard.

  When at least one of R, G, and B values of the color of the colored test piece and the color that appears as a result of coloration is completely different depending on the test piece, the test piece can be detected and extracted separately. The extracted test pieces are separately stored in a memory, and similarly, concentration measurement (quantitative) or rank determination is performed in comparison with the standard.

  R, G and B values (A) on the mounting surface, R, G and B values (B) on the stick, and R, G and B values (C) on the colored test paper pieces and colored test paper pieces are all complete If they are the same, the threshold cannot be set. However, even if (A) and (B) are completely the same, if at least one of the R, G, and B values in (C) is different, the threshold value can be set in the same manner as described above. In the case of the current stick-shaped urine test paper, since the RGB values of the plurality of color test pieces are all different, the number of color test pieces that are the same as the belt will not be more than one.

  When measuring using an image sensor, the captured image contains a larger range of data than conventional methods such as reflectance measurement, and the concentration of the target component is calculated by selecting the necessary part from that (quantitative determination) ) Or rank. Which part of the captured image is used for density calculation (quantification) or rank determination is determined by image processing after imaging, and is unknown at the time of imaging. Therefore, uniform illumination over the entire imaging range is very important.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, an elongated light source is provided in front of the linear image sensor so as to be orthogonal to the conveyor belt. This light source is line illumination having a light emitting surface in a line shape. This illumination is oblique illumination (dark field illumination), and is a method in which light is applied obliquely.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the linear image sensor is disposed so as to be sandwiched between elongated light sources (line illumination). By comprising in this way, the uniform illumination range of a measurement part can be enlarged more.

  This corresponds to oblique illumination (dark field illumination) shown in FIG. 9B, and the light source strikes the imaging object obliquely from the front and back in the traveling direction. Line illumination is suitable for imaging with a linear image sensor.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, an example is shown in which illumination is performed over a wide range by ring illumination (ring diameter is larger than that of the image sensor) having a light emitting surface in a ring shape above the image sensor.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 8 shows an example in which the imaging object is illuminated with the coaxial epi-illumination (bright field illumination) shown in FIG.

An elongated light source (line illumination) is positioned in front of the linear image sensor, and a half mirror is inserted between the image sensor and the object to be imaged to irradiate from the same direction as the imaging surface of the camera.

  Examples of light sources that can be used for the ring illumination and line illumination include halogen lamps, LEDs, fluorescent lamps, tungsten lamps, metal halides, and xenon lamps.

  It is preferable to provide a white plate for correction and / or a color tone table in order to correct data variation due to state changes due to environmental conditions such as light source / image sensor deterioration over time, difference between lots, temperature, etc. .

  FIG. 10 shows an example in which a white plate for correction and a color tone table are arranged below the light source in the portion protruding from the conveyance belt side end of the image sensor and the light source sandwiching the image sensor.

  The white plate is used for RGB value gradation (256 gradation) correction (white balance), and the color tone table is used as a standard for determining rank determination. Specifically, this color tone table is used to obtain a threshold value for rank determination.

  The procedure for gradation correction (white balance) using the “correction white plate” is as follows: (1) The gradation of the RGB value when measuring the white plate is 255, and (2) the RGB value when the light source is not turned on. The gradation of 0 may be set to 0.

  This correction should be performed immediately before the sample measurement, but if the optical characteristics of the detection / measurement mechanism are stable, there will be almost no change in the correction value. For example, since the stability lasts for one day, it can be measured as it is for one day.

  The rank determination procedure using the “color tone table” includes (1) reading a value based on at least one of the R, G, and B values of the colored test piece, and (2) after (or before) ), Reading a value based on at least one of the R, G, and B values of the color tone table equivalent to the color corresponding to the threshold value, and (3) R, G, and R of the colored color test specimen and the color tone table Rank determination is performed by comparing values based on at least one of the B values.

  If the optical characteristics from the detection / measurement mechanism are stable, there is almost no change in the readings from the color chart, so the threshold values of all ranks of all items are read when the instrument is turned on, and the color chart for each sample measurement No reading is performed. For example, since the reading value from the color tone table is stable for one day, it can be measured for one day as it is.

  The “correction white plate” and “color tone table” may be installed anywhere in the apparatus as long as the illumination conditions equivalent to the measurement location of the test paper can be obtained. The most convenient location that satisfies this condition is in the immediate vicinity of the test strip measurement location. However, if the orientation of the image sensor can be changed in a place that satisfies the above lighting conditions to prevent contamination of the “correction white plate” and “color tone table” by the test paper with the sample attached, measurement of the test paper is possible. It does not have to be close to the place.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 5 to 8, and 10, when the test paper is transported in the long side direction, the test paper is taken out, immersed in the sample, and placed on the apparatus (transport surface). Since it takes ~ 8 seconds, if it is 5 rows, it takes 25 ~ 40 seconds from placing the first specimen (first test paper) to placing the sixth specimen (sixth test paper) . If the length of the test paper is 10 cm, it is always possible to secure a place for placing the test paper by transporting 10 cm or more in 25 to 40 seconds. Therefore, the test paper can be placed at this transport speed without any timing restriction.
1, FIG. 5 to FIG. 8, and FIG. 10 show the case where five test papers are placed, the width of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) and the transport surface (transport) according to the apparatus of the present invention. In general, the conveying speed of the belt may be set as follows.
The width of the test paper conveyance surface (conveyance belt) may be set to a width that allows a desired number of test papers to be placed without being stacked. Specifically, the portion (assigned portion) of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) per one test paper (one sample) is 2 to 5 times the width of the test paper (one) in the short side direction, preferably The overall width of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) may be set so as to be 3 to 4 times. When n (specimen) test papers are placed on the test paper transport surface (transport belt), the test paper transport surface (transport belt) portion (assignment portion) per test paper (1 sample) is tested. 2 to 5 times, preferably 3 to 4 times (that is, 2 × Ycm to 5 × Ycm, preferably 3 × Ycm to 4 × Ycm) of the width (Ycm) in the short side direction of one piece of paper, The total width of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is n × 2 to n × 5 times, preferably n × 3 to n × 4 times the width (Ycm) in the short side direction of the test paper (one) (ie 2 × n × Ycm to 5 × n × Ycm, preferably 3 × n × Ycm to 4 × n × Ycm). For example, when five test papers with a width of 0.5 cm are placed, the allocated part of the test paper transport surface per test paper is 1.0 cm to 2.5 cm, preferably 1.5 cm to 2.0 cm. The width of the entire surface is 5.0 cm to 12.5 cm, preferably 7.5 cm to 10.0 cm.
The number (number) of test papers to be placed on the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is not particularly limited, but is usually 1 to 10, preferably 2 to 8, more preferably 4 to 6, In particular, about 5 is preferable because the size of the film does not increase.
In addition, on the test paper transport surface (transport belt), the test paper transport surface (transport belt) portion (assignment portion) per test paper (one sample) is used as a guide for the position where the test paper is placed. ), For example, a dividing line may be drawn, or a partition or the like may be provided. Note that these separator lines and partitions are only a guide for the test paper placement position, and it is not always necessary to place individual test papers inside these separator lines and partitions.

  Also, the transport speed of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is set to the set number (number) of test papers on the transport surface (transport belt), and the next new test paper is transported (transport belt). The speed at which a new test paper can be placed on the transport surface (transport belt) on the rear side of the test paper that was placed first, in other words, the set number It is possible to transport a distance equal to or longer than the length of the test paper in the long side direction within the same time as the time required to place one (number) more test paper than the (number) The conveying surface (conveying belt) may be conveyed at a speed. When placing n (specimen) test papers on the test paper transport surface (transport belt), as described above, one (specimen) test paper is taken out, immersed in the sample, and the apparatus (transport surface) Usually, 5 to 8 seconds are required to place the test paper on the sheet, so that 5 × n to 8 × is required from placing the first test paper to placing the (n + 1) th test paper on the transport surface (transport belt). It takes n seconds. If the length of the test paper in the long side direction is Xcm, if it is transported by more than Xcm in 5 × n to 8 × n seconds, a place for placing the n + 1th test paper can be secured, and the test paper is always transported. It can be placed on the surface (conveyor belt). Therefore, the conveyance speed of the test paper conveyance surface (conveyance belt) is X / (8 × n) to X / (5 × n) cm / second or more. Note that if the transport speed is increased, the test paper placement location can be ensured. However, if the transport speed is too high, the overall length of the test paper transport surface (conveyor belt) becomes longer, and the apparatus becomes larger. However, the upper limit is 4 × X / (8 × n) to 4 × X / (5 × n) cm / sec., Preferably 3 × X / (8 × n) to 3 × X / (5 × n) cm / sec or less, more preferably 2 × X / (8 × n) to 2 × X / (5 × n) cm / sec or less is there. For example, when five test papers having a length of 11 cm in the long side direction are placed, the lower limit of the transport speed of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is 0.27 to 0.44 cm / second, The upper limit is 1.1 to 1.76 cm / second or less, preferably 0.82 to 1.32 cm / second, more preferably 0.55 to 0.88 cm / second or less.

It is also possible to transport the test paper in the short side direction (horizontal placement).
The width of the test paper conveyance surface (conveyance belt) in this case may be a width that allows the test paper to be placed and conveyed in a stable state. Specifically, the lower limit is 1/2 or more of the length in the long side direction of the test paper and is the length of the test piece stuck on the test paper, and the upper limit is not particularly limited. The length in the long side direction is 1.5 times or less, preferably 1 time or less, more preferably less than 1 time. If the width of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is too short, the test paper may not be stably placed or transported, but if it is too long, it will be difficult for the measurer to place the test paper. The width is preferably slightly shorter than the length in the long side direction of the test paper.
The transport speed of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is as follows: one test paper is placed on the transport surface (transport belt), and the next new test paper is placed on the transport surface (transport belt). The speed at which a place where a new test paper can be placed is secured, in other words, the same time as the time from the placement of the first test paper to the placement of the second test paper, or the time The conveying surface (conveying belt) may be conveyed at such a speed that it can convey a distance equal to or longer than the length of the test paper in the short side direction. Preferably, the conveyance surface (conveyance belt) may be conveyed at a speed capable of conveying a distance of 2 to 5 times, more preferably 3 to 4 times the width in the short side direction of one test paper. As described above, it usually takes 5 to 8 seconds to take out a test paper (specimen), immerse it in a sample, and place it on the apparatus (conveying surface), so the first test paper is placed. It takes usually 5 to 8 seconds for the second test paper to be placed. If the length of the test paper in the short side direction is Ycm, if Ycm or more is transported for 5 to 8 seconds, a place for placing the second test paper can be secured, and the test paper is always transported on the transport surface (transport belt). ). Therefore, the conveyance speed of the test paper conveyance surface (conveyance belt) is Y / 8 to Y / 5 cm / second or more, and preferably 2 × Y / 8 to 2 × the width of the test paper (one) in the short side direction. × Y / 5 cm / sec, more preferably 3 × Y / 8 to 3 × Y / 5 cm / sec, still more preferably 4 × Y / 8 to 4 × Y / 5 cm / sec, particularly preferably 5 × Y / 8 to 5 × Y / 5 cm / sec. Note that if the transport speed is increased, the test paper placement location can be ensured. However, if the transport speed is too high, the overall length of the test paper transport surface (conveyor belt) becomes longer, and the apparatus becomes larger. However, it becomes difficult to place the test paper on the conveyance surface (conveyance belt). For example, when a test paper having a length of 0.5 cm in the short side direction is placed, the transport speed of the test paper transport surface (transport belt) is 0.06 to 0.1 cm / second or more, preferably 0.12. It is -0.2 cm / second, More preferably, it is 0.18-0.3 cm / second, More preferably, it is 0.25-0.4 cm / second, Especially preferably, it is 0.31-0.5 cm / second. Therefore, if this is done, the test paper can be placed at this transport speed without timing restrictions.
On the test paper transport surface (transport belt), the test paper transport surface (transport belt) portion (assignment portion) per test paper (one sample) is used as a guide for the position where the test paper is placed. In this case, for example, a separation line may be drawn or a partition may be provided at the boundary of the transport distance (moving distance until the next test paper is placed) as described above. Note that these separator lines and partitions are only a guide for the test paper placement position, and it is not always necessary to place individual test papers inside these separator lines and partitions.
In the above embodiment, the test paper is transported in the long side direction and the test paper is transported in the short side direction (horizontal placement). In this case, the width of the test paper conveyance surface (conveyance belt), the conveyance speed, and the like may be appropriately set according to the above.

  As described above, in any case, the tester always places the test paper at the normal belt speed, even if it is intermittent. Although there can be no paper, in the present invention, it is preferable to carry the paper continuously.

In addition, although said Example is related with the measuring apparatus which has the mounting part which consists of a conveyance mechanism as a mounting part united with the apparatus, the measuring apparatus which has a mounting part which became a separate body from the apparatus. Can also be carried out according to the above embodiment. 11 and 12 show an embodiment of the present invention having a mounting portion that is separate from the apparatus.
FIG. 11 shows an example in which an apparatus including a ring-shaped light source and an image sensor located at the center of the light source is placed so as to cover the test paper on the test paper placement location.
In the above embodiment, since the stick-shaped test paper is used, it is sufficient that all the colored test pieces are covered, and the hand-held part may not be covered. In short, it suffices if imaging can be performed so as to include test paper (this meaning is as described above).
The test paper may be placed on a measurement table such as an experimental table, and it is preferable to place a hygroscopic material such as paper on the table and place the test paper thereon. In this way, since the device itself does not contact the sample at all, contamination by the sample of the device can be avoided and excess sample is absorbed by the hygroscopic material, thus reducing the burden of cleaning and maintenance. Can do.
FIG. 12 shows an example in which a device in which a rod-shaped light source and an image sensor positioned in parallel with the light source in the width direction are placed so as to cover the test paper on the test paper placement place is mounted. Show. In this embodiment, the image sensor is positioned substantially parallel to the width direction of the light source, but is not limited to this.
The test paper mounting place may be formed as a part of the measuring device, that is, as a bottom plate that can be attached to and detached from the bottom surface of the measuring device, as a bottom plate that can be opened and closed, or as an integrated bottom plate. good. However, since the maintenance burden can be reduced and the cost can be reduced, it is preferable that the apparatus is separated from the apparatus as in the embodiment of FIGS.
The measuring apparatus in FIG. 11 has an area where a plurality of test papers can be imaged simultaneously, so that a plurality of test papers can be measured simultaneously. However, since the measuring apparatus in FIG. 12 is an apparatus for measuring one by one, the test paper There is only an area that can be imaged.
In order to perform measurement using the test paper of FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the apparatus is placed on the test paper on which the sample is tested (dropped or immersed), and is imaged by an image sensor after a predetermined reaction time. In the same manner as in the example, after the RGB value data of the image is stored in the memory, image processing, quantitative determination / rank determination are performed, and the image is displayed on a display or printed by a printer (output device).
In addition, as shown in FIG.11 and FIG.12, when arbitrary things, such as an upper surface, such as a desk, a suitable paper, a board, etc. are used as a mounting part as a mounting part separate from an apparatus, The color of these upper surfaces (mounting surfaces) is also preferably the same color as described above.

It is (A) top view and (B) side view which show one Example of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the Example of the apparatus structure of this invention. It is a block diagram of (A) frame buffer system (B) FIFO system which shows the connection of the memory of this invention. It is a figure explaining extraction by the threshold-value of this invention. It is (A) top view and (B) side view which show the other Example of this invention. It is (A) top view and (B) side view which show the other Example of this invention. It is (A) top view and (B) side view which show the other Example of this invention. It is (A) top view and (B) side view which show the other Example of this invention. It is a side view of (A) coaxial incident illumination (B) incident illumination used for this invention. It is (A) top view and (B) side view which show the other Example of this invention. It is the (A) upper surface perspective view and (B) front surface perspective view which show the other Example of this invention. (A) Top perspective drawing, (B) Front perspective drawing, (C) Internal view showing another embodiment of the present invention.

Claims (28)

An image sensor for imaging so as to include a test paper, a memory for storing the captured RGB digital image data, and a microprocessor for extracting the digital image data of the target test paper from the data on the memory. Test paper measuring device. The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is formed so as to exhibit an RGB value different from the color before and after coloring of the test paper, and the microprocessor is different from the color before and after coloring of the test paper. 2. A program for detecting the test paper based on an upper limit or / and a lower threshold of at least one of R, G, and B values, and extracting digital image data of the detected test paper. Measuring device. The test paper is a stick-shaped test paper in which a color test piece is attached to a stick made of plastic or the like, and the microprocessor extracts the digital image data of the stick-shaped test paper and then performs the color test. The measuring apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a program for extracting a piece of digital image data. The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is formed so as to exhibit an RGB value different from the color of the stick constituting the test paper, and the microprocessor performs R, G of the color of the stick constituting the test paper. 4. A measurement according to claim 3, further comprising a program for detecting the test paper image based on an upper limit or / and a lower limit threshold of at least one of the B values and extracting digital image data of the detected test paper. apparatus. The microprocessor includes a program for performing binarization or shading processing for clarifying the outer shape of the extracted target test paper image on the memory, and a program for performing an edge search on the outer shape of the target test paper image. The measuring apparatus according to claim 1 or 3. The measurement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the measurement unit includes a placement unit having a placement surface on which the test paper is placed as a separate body or as an integral part of the device. The measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the placement surface on which the test paper is placed becomes a transport surface in a transport mechanism for transporting the test paper to the measurement unit. The measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the placement surface on which the test paper is placed is formed wide so that a plurality of test papers can be placed. The measuring apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a plurality of rows of test paper transport paths for transporting a plurality of test papers are formed on the transport surface. The said image pick-up element is a linear image sensor, This linear image sensor is arrange | positioned so that the said test paper which passes below in the width direction of a test paper conveyance surface can be imaged. measuring device. The measuring apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the transport mechanism that transports the test paper is configured to continuously transport the test paper. The measuring apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a white plate for correction is disposed in a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained. The measuring apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a color tone table for determining rank determination is arranged at a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained. The measuring apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the color tone table is for determining a threshold value for rank determination. The measurement apparatus according to claim 1, wherein measurement is possible even when the test paper is placed on the measurement unit or conveyed to the measurement unit in a different posture. The measuring device according to claim 1, wherein the test paper is a urine test paper. The image is picked up by an imaging device so as to include an image of the test strip, the captured RGB digital image data is transferred to the memory, and the target test strip digital image data is extracted from the data on the memory using a microprocessor. Comparing a value based on at least one of the R, G and B values obtained with a value based on at least one of the corresponding R, G and B values of a standard test strip stored in advance in memory; A test paper measuring method, comprising measuring the concentration of an object to be measured. The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is a color indicating an RGB value different from the color before and after the coloration of the test paper, and R, G, and B values set in advance based on the degree of coloration of the test paper The test paper is detected by a microprocessor based on an upper limit or / and lower limit threshold of at least one value, digital image data of the detected test paper is extracted, and the obtained R, G and B values are obtained. A value based on at least one value is compared with a value based on at least one of the corresponding R, G and B values of a standard test paper stored in advance in memory, and the concentration of the object to be measured is measured. Item 18. A measuring method according to Item 17. The test paper is a stick-shaped test paper obtained by sticking a color test piece to a stick made of plastic or the like, and after the digital image data of the stick-shaped test paper is extracted by the microprocessor, the color test piece And a value based on at least one of the obtained R, G, and B values is extracted from at least one of the corresponding R, G, and B values of a standard specimen stored in memory. The measurement method according to claim 17, wherein the concentration of the object to be measured is measured as compared with a value based on the value. The placement surface on which the test paper is placed is set to a color showing an RGB value different from the color of the stick constituting the test paper, and the microprocessor is based on the color of the stick constituting the test paper. After detecting the image, extracting the digital image data of the detected test paper, and further extracting the digital image data of the color test piece, a value based on at least one of the obtained R, G and B values is obtained. The measurement method according to claim 19, wherein the concentration of the object to be measured is measured by comparison with a value based on at least one of R, G and B values of a corresponding standard test paper stored in advance in a memory. 20. The measuring method according to claim 17, wherein the digital image of the test paper on the memory is binarized or shaded to clarify an outer shape of the test paper image to be extracted, and the outer shape is extracted by edge search. . The measuring method according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the placement surface of the test paper is a transport surface of a transport mechanism for transporting the test paper to the measurement unit. The measurement method according to any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein the imaging element is a linear image sensor, and continuously images a test paper passing under the linear image sensor. The measurement method according to any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein a gradation correction of the RGB values is performed by arranging a correction white plate in a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained. The measurement method according to any one of claims 17 to 24, wherein rank determination is performed by arranging a color tone table in a place where an illumination condition equivalent to the measurement place of the test paper is obtained. 26. The measurement method according to claim 25, wherein the color tone table is arranged to obtain a rank determination threshold value. 27. The measurement method according to any one of claims 17 to 26, wherein the test paper is placed on the measurement unit in a free posture or placed on a conveyance surface that is conveyed to the measurement unit. The measurement method according to any one of claims 17 to 27, wherein the test paper is a urine test paper.

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