A test tray for single-sample multi-item testing

Abstract

This utility model relates to the field of microfluidic POCT detection technology, specifically disclosing a test tray for single-sample multi-item simultaneous testing. The tray includes: a test liquid containment chamber, a liquid guide groove, a liquid storage tank, an air vent, an overflow outlet, an overflow collection tank, a pressure equalization hole, a drainage groove, a test liquid outlet, and test paper mounting slots. The test tray, through the test liquid containment chamber, liquid guide groove, and liquid storage tank, utilizes microfluidic technology to precisely distribute the test liquid to multiple test paper mounting slots under centrifugal force, achieving highly sensitive detection of multiple indicators with the same sample. This solves the problem of low efficiency in traditional methods where each sample is handled individually, meeting the needs of high-throughput testing. Furthermore, the drainage groove uses a siphon effect to evenly drip the test liquid onto the test paper, avoiding the deviation caused by manual liquid addition and significantly improving the repeatability and consistency of the test results.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of microfluidic POCT detection technology, and in particular to a test tray for single sample addition and multi-item joint testing. Background Technology

[0002] Current test strip detection technologies typically involve manual, drop-by-drop addition of liquid and visual observation of the results. During testing, the operator adds the sample solution or reagent drop-by-drop to the test strip and interprets the result by observing the color change in the indicated area or the appearance of the marking line. This test strip-based method is simple and intuitive, and has been widely used in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and other fields. However, traditional test strip detection methods have significant limitations and shortcomings. The main problems with current test strip detection methods are as follows:

[0003] Traditional methods often only allow for testing a single test strip per run. Testing multiple samples requires processing each strip individually, a cumbersome and inefficient process that fails to meet the demands of high-throughput, rapid batch testing. For example, in scenarios requiring simultaneous analysis of multiple samples, the operation time increases significantly, limiting its efficiency in modern laboratory or industrial applications. Manually adding liquid drop by drop makes precise control of the dosage difficult; to ensure a full reaction, excess liquid is often added, resulting in wasted liquid. Furthermore, manual addition is prone to spillage or residue, further reducing the effective utilization rate of the liquid. Inconsistent operator techniques and judgments can lead to discrepancies in results between different batches or by different personnel. The color development process is significantly affected by human factors, such as the force applied and the timing of liquid addition, making consistent results difficult to obtain with repeated testing. Test results typically rely on visual comparison of color or markings, leading to significant subjective errors. Additionally, external factors such as ambient light and viewing angle can also affect the accuracy of interpretation. The lack of standardized reaction control and reading methods makes it difficult to guarantee testing accuracy and reliability.

[0004] To overcome these limitations, several automated systems have been developed in the prior art. For example, urine analyzers can automatically read urine test strips, providing digital results for multiple parameters such as pH, protein, glucose, and ketones; blood glucose test strip readers can also quickly provide accurate blood glucose concentration values. These automated devices analyze test strip reactions using optical or electrochemical methods, significantly improving the efficiency and accuracy of single-strip testing. However, these devices are typically designed for single-strip testing only, making it difficult to perform batch testing of multiple test strips. For high-throughput applications requiring simultaneous testing of multiple test strips, existing technologies still lack comprehensive solutions. Furthermore, while multi-well plates used in laboratories can be used for batch processing of liquid samples, their design and processing methods are not directly applicable to test strips because the physical form and reaction mechanism of test strips differ from those of liquid samples. Some devices for processing multiple test strips exist on the market, such as test strip dispensers and cutters, but these devices are primarily used for dispensing single test strips or cutting test strips from large sheets, rather than for simultaneous testing of multiple test strips. In the semiconductor manufacturing field, there is a technique called "strip testing," which tests semiconductor devices that are still attached to the lead frame strips before slicing. This method can efficiently test multiple devices in batches, but its technical principles and application scenarios are quite different from those of chemical test strip testing, making it difficult to apply directly to test strip detection.

[0005] Therefore, no existing structured testing device can simultaneously address issues such as batch testing, efficient use of test solutions, result consistency, and guaranteed testing accuracy. In other words, there is currently a lack of a dedicated device that integrates and optimizes the test strip testing process, overcoming these shortcomings through specific structural design. Therefore, a device is needed that enables batch testing of chemical test strips to support simultaneous, quantitative, and high-throughput analysis, ensuring uniform application of the test solution and providing accurate and consistent test results. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this utility model is to overcome the shortcomings of the existing technology. To achieve the above objective, this utility model adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] This utility model embodiment proposes a test tray for single-sample multi-item joint testing. The test tray is connected to the top of an external rotating seat, which is used to drive the test tray to rotate. The test tray is provided with: a test liquid containing cavity, a liquid guiding groove, a liquid storage groove, an air hole, an overflow outlet, an overflow liquid collection groove, a pressure flat hole, a drainage groove, a test liquid outlet, and a test paper mounting groove.

[0008] The test liquid containment chamber is located inside the test pan; the liquid guide groove is connected at one end to the test liquid containment chamber and at the other end to the liquid storage tank; the vent is connected to the liquid storage tank; the overflow outlet is located at the top of the liquid storage tank and is connected to the overflow collection tank; the pressure equalization hole is located on the overflow collection tank; the drainage groove is connected at one end to the bottom of the liquid storage tank and at the other end to the test liquid outlet; the test paper mounting groove is located on the test pan; the test liquid outlet is located on the test pan and above the test paper mounting groove; the drainage groove is arranged at a height higher than the liquid storage tank; the test liquid containment chamber is a circular or polygonal groove located in the center of the test pan, and its side wall has an opening connected to the liquid guide groove.

[0009] Preferably, the drainage channel is a curved channel.

[0010] Preferably, the test disk has a mounting part at the bottom center, which is mounted on an external rotating base and detachably connected to the external rotating base.

[0011] Preferably, one or more sets of test paper fixing ribs are provided in the test paper mounting slot, and the test paper fixing ribs are used to fix the test paper installed in the test paper mounting slot.

[0012] Preferably, multiple test paper mounting slots are evenly distributed circumferentially around the periphery of the test disk.

[0013] Preferably, the periphery of the test liquid container cavity is provided with an annular flow divider wall, which divides the test liquid container cavity into multiple flow channels, and each flow channel is connected to a corresponding liquid storage tank through a liquid guide groove.

[0014] Preferably, the overflow collection tank is an annular tank, arranged around the periphery of the test plate.

[0015] Preferably, it further includes an annular distribution cavity, which is disposed between the test liquid container cavity and the liquid guide tank. The annular distribution cavity surrounds the test liquid container cavity and is connected to the inlet of all liquid guide tanks.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention provides a test tray for single-sample multi-item simultaneous testing. By connecting to an external rotating base, it utilizes a rotation mechanism to achieve uniform distribution of the test solution and simultaneous testing of multiple test strips, significantly overcoming several shortcomings of existing technologies. First, the test tray, through its structural design of a test solution containing cavity, a guide groove, and a storage tank, precisely distributes the test solution to multiple test strip mounting slots under centrifugal force, enabling batch testing and solving the problem of low efficiency in traditional methods that require individual strip operation, thus meeting the needs of high-throughput testing. Second, the storage tank, combined with an air hole and an overflow outlet, ensures quantitative distribution of the test solution. Excess liquid is recovered through an overflow collection tank, improving the utilization rate of the test solution and reducing waste. The pressure equalization hole further balances the air pressure, ensuring the stability of the liquid flow. Furthermore, the diversion groove uses a siphon effect to evenly drip the test solution onto the test strips, avoiding deviations caused by manual liquid addition and significantly improving the repeatability and consistency of the test results. Simultaneously, the automated distribution and reaction process reduces human operation and subjective interpretation errors, improving detection accuracy and reliability. This invention has a simple structure and is easy to operate. It is applicable to fields such as medical diagnosis and environmental monitoring, and can efficiently and quantitatively complete the simultaneous detection of multiple test strips. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0018] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the reagent tray provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the reagent tray provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a front view of the reagent tray provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 4 This is a top view of the reagent tray provided in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0022] Icons: 1-Test liquid containment cavity; 2-Liquid guide groove; 3-Liquid storage tank; 4-Air hole; 5-Overflow outlet; 6-Overflow liquid collection tank; 7-Pressure leveling hole; 8-Drainage groove; 9-Test liquid outlet; 10-Test paper mounting groove; 11-Diverter wall; 12-Mounting part; 13-Test paper fixing rib. Detailed Implementation

[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the present utility model will be briefly introduced below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and descriptions of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the following description of the structure of the accompanying drawings is only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort. It should be noted that the description of these embodiments is used to help understand this utility model, but does not constitute a limitation on this utility model.

[0024] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0025] Example 1:

[0026] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, this is a single-sample, multi-item testing device proposed in this embodiment of the invention. It is used in conjunction with an external rotating base, such as through a mounting part 12. Rotation enables quantitative distribution of the test solution and batch testing of test strips. The test tray in this embodiment includes: a test solution containing cavity 1 located at the center of the tray body; multiple liquid guiding grooves 2 extending radially from the test solution containing cavity 1 to the periphery of the tray body; a liquid storage tank 3 located at the end of each liquid guiding groove 2; and several test strip mounting grooves 10 for mounting test strips. In addition, the test tray is equipped with auxiliary structures that cooperate with the liquid path, including an air hole 4, an overflow outlet 5, an overflow liquid collection tank 6, a pressure equalization hole 7, a drainage groove 8, and a test solution outlet 9, to ensure smooth test solution distribution and reliable testing.

[0027] The test liquid receiving cavity 1 is located at the center of the test pan and is a concave cavity within the pan to hold the test liquid. Preferably, the test liquid receiving cavity 1 is a circular or polygonal groove located at the center of the test pan, with an opening on its side wall connected to a liquid guide groove for dispensing the test liquid; simultaneously, the receiving cavity 1 can be a circular or nearly circular groove structure with its opening facing upwards to facilitate liquid injection from above. When the test pan is mounted on a rotating base, the test liquid receiving cavity 1 is coaxial with the rotation axis, thereby generating a uniform centrifugal force field during rotation. Preferably, the volume of the test liquid receiving cavity 1 is designed according to the sample volume required for a single test, and can hold the entire volume of test liquid required for one test.

[0028] Multiple liquid guiding channels 2 extend radially outward from the test liquid receiving cavity 1. Each liquid guiding channel 2 is a long, narrow channel structure on the disk body, used to guide the test liquid from the central receiving cavity to the periphery of the disk body. The multiple liquid guiding channels 2 are evenly distributed on the disk surface; for example, in this embodiment, there are six liquid guiding channels 2, arranged at 60° intervals around the center. One end of each liquid guiding channel 2 is connected to the test liquid receiving cavity 1, and the other end is connected to the corresponding liquid storage tank 3. The liquid guiding channels 2 are typically enclosed by grooves formed on the disk body and a cover plate above them, forming a closed channel. When the test disk rotates, the test liquid moves rapidly along the liquid guiding channels 2 under centrifugal force, achieving transfer from the center to the outside.

[0029] At the connection between the test liquid receiving cavity 1 and each liquid guiding channel 2, several radially arranged diversion walls 11 are provided. The diversion walls 11 are vertical baffle structures extending outward from the inner wall of the receiving cavity 1, separating the inlets of adjacent liquid guiding channels 2 from each other. Through these diversion walls 11, the test liquid receiving cavity 1 is divided into several outlet areas, with one outlet channel corresponding to each liquid guiding channel 2. This design serves to divert the flow when the test disc rotates, allowing the test liquid to be distributed approximately evenly into each liquid guiding channel 2, preventing liquid from flowing into individual channels. In this embodiment, the positions of the diversion walls 11 and the liquid guiding channels 2 correspond one-to-one. For example, if there are 6 liquid guiding channels 2, then 6 diversion walls 11 are arranged, dividing the outlet of the receiving cavity 1 into 6 equal areas.

[0030] The outer end of the liquid guiding groove 2 is connected to the liquid storage groove 3. The liquid storage groove 3 is located near the periphery of the test plate and is an enlarged cavity at the end of the liquid guiding groove 2, used to temporarily store the test liquid delivered from the liquid guiding groove 2. Each liquid guiding groove 2 corresponds to one liquid storage groove 3, and the number and layout of the liquid storage grooves 3 are consistent with those of the liquid guiding groove 2 (e.g., 6 in this embodiment, evenly distributed around the plate). The volume of the liquid storage groove 3 is designed to hold the amount of liquid required for one test strip. The shape of the liquid storage groove 3 can be a circular, elliptical, or other suitable geometric shape, and its depth is generally greater than that of the liquid guiding groove 2 so that a certain amount of liquid can be retained even after rotation stops. The arrangement of the liquid storage groove 3 provides a space for the test liquid to collect and stabilize before reaching the test strip, which helps with quantitative distribution: when each liquid storage groove 3 is full, it means that the corresponding test strip has obtained a sufficient and approximately the same amount of sample liquid.

[0031] To prevent air bubbles from forming during high-speed flow or dripping of the liquid and affecting normal distribution, vent holes 4 are provided above each liquid storage tank 3. Vent holes 4 are typically small spaces on the outer periphery of the liquid storage tank 3, connected to the outside atmosphere via a drainage channel 8 and a test liquid outlet 9, and also connected to the interior of the liquid storage tank 3. Their function is to promptly expel residual air from the tank before it is completely filled with liquid, preventing air stagnation and the formation of air bubbles. Through the function of vent holes 4, the liquid can smoothly fill the entire space of the liquid storage tank 3 without being blocked by air. The diameter of these vent holes can be small, mainly to ensure no air bubbles between the liquid storage tank 3 and the drainage channel 8. When the test liquid enters the liquid storage tank 3, under the action of centrifugal force, the test liquid quickly enters the vent holes 4, allowing the test liquid to quickly accumulate near the vent holes 4 in the liquid storage tank 3, thus quickly filling the liquid storage tank 3. Preferably, the drainage channel 8 is a curved channel, suitable for guiding the test liquid from the liquid storage tank 3 to the test liquid outlet 9 through a siphon effect.

[0032] To ensure a precise quantity of liquid in each storage tank 3 and prevent excessive overflow, each storage tank 3 is equipped with an overflow port 5. The overflow port 5 is an outlet channel located on the side wall or top of the storage tank 3, used to drain excess liquid out of the tank when the liquid level exceeds a specific height or capacity. The overflow port 5 is typically located at the highest point the liquid level in the storage tank 3 is allowed to reach. As the test liquid continuously flows into the storage tank 3 through the guide channel 2, once the liquid level in a particular storage tank 3 reaches its design capacity, excess liquid will flow out from the overflow port 5 of that storage tank 3. To collect this excess liquid, the test tray is equipped with an overflow collection tank 6 that communicates with all overflow ports 5.

[0033] Preferably, the overflow collection tank 6 is an annular groove, arranged around the periphery of the test pan, and used to collect the test liquid overflowing from each reservoir 3 through its corresponding overflow port. The overflow collection tank 6 is generally formed around the periphery of the test pan, and is an annular groove or cavity structure used to collect and store excess test liquid discharged from each overflow port 5. The collection tank 6 is usually located further outwards from all the reservoirs 3, and the centrifugal force during rotation can throw the overflowing liquid into the collection tank. Through the overflow collection tank 6, excess sample liquid is effectively isolated on the outer ring of the pan, preventing it from flowing back or contaminating the test strip area. Furthermore, the collection tank 6 also serves a safe storage function, facilitating the unified cleaning of these residual liquids after testing.

[0034] A pressure equalization hole 7 is also provided at an appropriate location on the test pan. Its function is to maintain pressure balance between the liquid system inside the pan and the external environment. During liquid transport and distribution, the test pan experiences rapid liquid flow and space filling. Without sufficient ventilation, local positive or negative pressure may form, affecting normal liquid flow. The pressure equalization hole 7 is usually located above the test liquid receiving cavity 1 or on the pan cover, communicating with the internal space of the receiving cavity or the liquid guide tank 2. Through the pressure equalization hole 7, atmospheric pressure can enter each key node of the liquid system, thus preventing uneven or stopped liquid flow caused by pressure changes within the confined space. It should be noted that the vent 4 also plays a role in balancing air pressure to some extent, but the pressure equalization hole 7 is mainly for ensuring smooth flow of excess test liquid into the overflow collection tank 6 when there is too much test liquid in the storage tank 3.

[0035] Each liquid reservoir 3 has a test liquid outlet 9 at its bottom or lower side. The test liquid outlet 9 is typically a small hole or slit leading from the liquid reservoir 3 to the test paper mounting slot 10 below. Multiple test paper mounting slots 10 are evenly distributed circumferentially around the periphery of the test disc. The function of the test liquid outlet 9 is to directionally drip liquid onto the test paper after the liquid reservoir 3 is filled. When the test disc rotates, centrifugal force fills the liquid reservoir 3, and the test liquid flows out through the guide channel 8 into the outlet 9 in the form of drops or a thin stream. The size and shape of the test liquid outlet 9 can be designed as needed to control the dripping speed and flow rate, ensuring that the liquid wets the test paper without over-submerging it. Typically, the diameter of the outlet 9 is small, acting as a throttling agent, allowing the liquid to flow slowly drop by drop onto the test paper surface. In this embodiment, to guide the liquid smoothly from the test liquid outlet 9 to the test paper and prevent the liquid from spreading, a guide channel 8 is also designed near each test paper mounting slot 10. The drainage channel 8 can be understood as a small groove or guiding structure extending from the test liquid outlet 9, used to guide the dripped liquid to accurately land on the target area of ​​the test strip, and to guide the remaining liquid away after the test strip is wetted. Specifically, the drainage channel 8 is usually located downstream of the test strip mounting groove 10, tangent to or slightly lower than the surface of the test strip. Preferably, when the droplet falls onto the test strip and the excess flows along the test strip, the drainage channel 8 can collect the liquid that is not absorbed by the test strip and guide it to the overflow liquid collection groove 6. In this way, after the test strip is fully wetted, the excess liquid will not remain on the surface of the test strip or in the groove, but will be discharged to the outer collection groove 6 in time, thereby maintaining the relative cleanliness of the test strip reaction area environment, which is conducive to subsequent result reading. Preferably, the drainage channel 8 is arranged at a height higher than the liquid storage tank 3 so that when the liquid storage tank is full of test liquid, the drainage channel 8 generates a siphon effect to guide the test liquid in the liquid storage tank 3 to the test liquid outlet.

[0036] The test strip mounting slot 10 is a structure for placing and fixing the test strips. In this embodiment, six test strip mounting slots 10 are evenly distributed on the test tray, corresponding one-to-one with the six liquid guiding grooves 2 and liquid storage grooves 3 mentioned above. The test strip mounting slot 10 is generally a long and narrow groove, slightly larger than the length and thickness of a standard test strip, allowing the test strip to be laid flat or embedded in the groove. The position and orientation of each mounting slot 10 are designed so that when the test strip is placed in it, its sensing area (such as multiple reagent reaction pads on a urine test strip) is located exactly below or near the corresponding test liquid outlet 9. In this way, once liquid flows out from the outlet 9, it will directly contact the reaction area of ​​the test strip. The test strip can be fixed in the mounting slot 10 by clips, elastic clips or other fixing structures to avoid displacement due to centrifugal force during rotation; preferably, one or more sets of test strip fixing ribs 13 are provided in the test strip mounting slot 10, which are used to fix the test strip installed in the test strip mounting slot 10. Typically, these test strip slots are arranged radially around the center of the disk, with one end of each test strip facing the central receiving cavity 1 and the other end facing the outer edge of the disk. Once the test strip is installed, its liquid-receiving end is aligned inwards with the test liquid outlet 9 to ensure accurate liquid drop onto the test strip. By providing multiple test strip mounting slots 10 on the test disk, multiple test strips can be tested simultaneously using the same sample, significantly improving testing efficiency.

[0037] Application Scenarios and Procedures: This test tray is primarily used in clinical urine test strip testing and other situations requiring the processing of multiple test strips at once. The following describes the specific steps for using this test tray in conjunction with the testing process of routine urine analysis test strips.

[0038] First, the operator selects several urine test strips according to the requirements of the test and inserts them into the test strip mounting slots 10 of the test tray. When inserting, ensure that the sensing end of each test strip (i.e., the end with the reagent pad) faces the center of the tray and is aligned with its corresponding test liquid outlet 9. The test strips can be secured by gentle pressure or clips to ensure they remain firmly in place within the slots. At this point, all test strips are in place, and each test strip slot on the tray contains one strip ready to receive the sample liquid.

[0039] Next, prepare the urine sample to be tested as the test solution. Keep the test tray horizontal and slowly pour urine into the central test solution reservoir 1. The amount of urine poured in should be appropriate, usually slightly more than the total amount required for all test strips, to ensure that each reservoir 3 is filled. For example, if each test strip requires approximately 0.2 mL of urine, and 6 test strips require approximately 1.2 mL, then approximately 1.5 mL of urine can be added to reservoir 1, leaving some margin. The sample should be added as smoothly as possible to avoid creating air bubbles; the large opening of reservoir 1 facilitates pouring, and its concave structure allows the liquid to naturally collect at the bottom of the reservoir, ready for subsequent dispensing.

[0040] Next, install the test tray containing the test strip and sample solution onto the external rotating base. The rotating base is typically a rotatable platform in the testing device, with a fixing structure that engages with the test tray to securely lock it in place. During installation, align the center hole or bottom positioning structure of the test tray mounting part 12 with the rotating shaft of the rotating base, ensuring the tray is level and firmly fixed to the rotating base. After confirming that the installation is correct, start the rotation drive mechanism to accelerate the rotation of the test tray around the central axis.

[0041] As the test disc rotates rapidly, the urine in the receiving cavity 1 is thrown outwards by centrifugal force and enters the radially distributed liquid guiding channels 2. Due to the guiding effect of the diversion wall 11, the urine is divided into multiple streams that flow simultaneously to different liquid guiding channels 2. The urine moves rapidly along the liquid guiding channels 2, reaching the end of each channel almost simultaneously and entering the corresponding storage tank 3. The liquid first collects in the storage tank 3, and when a storage tank 3 is full to its maximum capacity, the excess urine is discharged through the overflow port 5 and enters the outer overflow collection tank 6. Other storage tanks 3 are filled sequentially in the same manner. During this process, the vent 4 continuously functions to promptly expel air from the tanks to prevent interruption of the liquid flow. With the above structural design, this invention can ensure that multiple storage tanks 3 receive sample liquid almost simultaneously and in equal amounts, achieving quantitative synchronous sample dispensing from multiple test strips.

[0042] As the reservoir 3 gradually fills, urine samples begin to drip down onto the test strip through the test solution outlet 9. When the liquid level in the reservoir 3 rises to the outlet orifice, under the combined action of centrifugal force and gravity, droplets are continuously dripped through the small hole onto the sensing area of ​​the test strip below. Because the test disc continues to rotate, each reservoir 3 remains stably aligned with the test strip below, continuously supplying droplets. Within seconds, the sensing area of ​​each test strip is completely wetted with urine. At this point, color reactions for the corresponding test items begin to appear on each test strip. For example, the glucose, protein, and nitrite reagent pads on the urine test strip undergo chemical reactions and change color upon contact with urine.

[0043] Continue rotating the test disc for a set time (e.g., continue rotating for about 10 seconds) to ensure all test strips are fully in contact with the sample solution and that their reactions begin evenly. Then stop the rotation drive and allow the test disc to gradually decelerate until it comes to a complete stop. During this process, the amount of urine flowing out through the test solution outlet 9 also decreases and stops, indicating that the sample solution supply to each test strip is now sufficient and balanced. Any excess urine remaining will be guided to the overflow collection tank 6 through the drainage channel 8 before and after the rotation stops, preventing it from remaining on the test strip surface. After the test disc comes to a complete stop, start timing to allow the chemical reaction on the test strips to proceed fully (generally, routine urine test strips require 1-2 minutes of reaction).

[0044] During the reaction process, each test strip gradually displays patches of varying color intensity, indicating preliminary results for each detection parameter. Once the reaction time is complete, the operator can read and analyze the color changes of the test strips. Because all test strips begin to react almost simultaneously and obtain similar sample volumes, their color development results are synchronous and comparable, greatly improving the accuracy and reliability of readings. When reading the results, the operator can remove the test tray from the rotating base, take out each test strip one by one, and compare it with the standard colorimetric card to determine the concentration of each indicator; alternatively, in some automated devices, the results can be read directly along with the test tray (e.g., using an optical sensor to scan the color of each test strip sequentially). Regardless of the reading method used, the use of this test tray avoids the tedious manual addition of samples one by one, making the detection of multiple test strips simple and efficient.

[0045] After reading the values, the test strips and test tray can be processed. The operator can remove the used test strips from the test strip mounting slot 10 and discard them. If the test tray is a disposable consumable, the entire tray can be discarded to avoid cross-contamination; if the test tray is designed to be washable and reusable, it should be removed from the rotating base, the residual liquid in the overflow collection tank 6 should be poured out, and the tray should be thoroughly cleaned and dried for the next use.

[0046] Example 2:

[0047] The test disc structure provided in this embodiment is basically similar to that in embodiment 1, except that the number of test paper mounting slots 10 is increased and the fluid distribution structure is optimized.

[0048] Specifically, the test tray in Example 2 can accommodate more test strips to meet the needs of batch testing. The number of test strip mounting slots 10 evenly distributed on the tray increases from 6 in Example 1 to 12, with the center angle between any two adjacent test strip slots being approximately 30°, arranged in a circular array. Correspondingly, 12 liquid guiding channels 2 and 12 liquid storage tanks 3 are provided, each corresponding to one of the 12 test strip slots. This means that this embodiment can simultaneously accommodate twelve test strips for parallel testing, further increasing the throughput of a single test.

[0049] To ensure uniform sample liquid distribution across all channels even with double the number of liquid guide tanks 2 and storage tanks 3, Example 2 improved the central distribution structure. Firstly, throttling slits or flow-limiting orifices were installed at the interface between the test liquid receiving chamber 1 and the liquid guide tanks 2. These slits act as flow limiters; as the disc rotates, the flow-limiting orifices at the inlet of each liquid guide tank 2 create resistance to the liquid flow, ensuring that the sample liquid enters each liquid guide tank 2 at approximately equal rates. In this way, even with manufacturing errors or differences in liquid viscosity, the amount of liquid obtained by each channel tends to be consistent.

[0050] On the other hand, an annular distribution cavity is added between the receiving cavity 1 and each liquid guiding groove 2. This annular distribution cavity surrounds the receiving cavity 1 and is connected to the inlet of all liquid guiding grooves 2. When rotating, the sample liquid first enters the annular distribution cavity from the receiving cavity 1, and then simultaneously flows into the multiple liquid guiding grooves 2. Since the annular cavity has the function of temporarily storing and circumferentially equalizing the liquid, it can further improve the synchronicity of liquid distribution and avoid over-injection in some channels because they come into contact with the liquid first. Under this optimized structure, even if the number of test strip grooves increases significantly, the volume of sample liquid obtained by each test strip remains basically the same.

[0051] With the adjustment of the diversion and liquid guiding structure, the number of diversion walls 11 in Example 2 is also increased accordingly, and an improved layout is adopted. The height of the new diversion walls 11 is comparable to that of the receiving cavity 1, but the thickness can be slightly reduced to minimize the occupation of the central volume while providing multi-channel isolation. They cooperate with the aforementioned flow-limiting orifice and annular distribution cavity to ensure the accuracy and synchronization of liquid distribution during rotation.

[0052] In addition, Example 2 also strengthens the liquid storage tank 3 and its related supporting structures. Due to the increased number of test strips and the corresponding increase in total sample volume, the volume of each liquid storage tank 3 is slightly increased to accommodate sufficient liquid. The shape of the liquid storage tank 3 can be optimized to facilitate the rapid and stable accumulation of liquid near the outlet; for example, the bottom is slightly conical pointing towards the test liquid outlet 9, so that the liquid can drip smoothly even after rotation stops. The diameter and opening height of the overflow port 5 on each liquid storage tank 3 have also been recalculated and adjusted to accommodate the overflow demand of a larger volume of liquid, ensuring that when all twelve liquid storage tanks 3 are filled, excess liquid can be discharged promptly without stagnation. The overflow collection tank 6 is correspondingly widened and deepened to have sufficient capacity to accommodate excess sample liquid discharged from all channels.

[0053] Regarding ventilation and balancing, Embodiment 2 also considers the needs of multi-channel operation. More air holes 4 and / or pressure equalization holes 7 can be added to the disc cover or at appropriate locations. For example, for the newly added annular distribution chamber, two symmetrically distributed pressure equalization holes 7 can be provided at its top to ensure that the annular chamber does not experience pressure imbalance during rapid liquid filling. Simultaneously, the original air holes 4 in each liquid guide groove 2 and liquid storage groove 3 are increased proportionally to ensure that air can be smoothly and promptly discharged from the system when all twelve channels are simultaneously filled with liquid. Through these improvements, the test disc of Embodiment 2 can maintain good liquid flow and distribution stability even when processing more test strips simultaneously.

[0054] The usage method of this embodiment is basically the same as that of Embodiment 1. The operator installs up to 12 test strips into the slots on the tray as needed, pours in an appropriate amount of test solution (the sample amount is increased appropriately according to the number of test strips), and then connects the test tray to the rotating seat for centrifugal distribution. Due to the optimized structure, even when twelve test strips are supplied simultaneously, the sample solution can be distributed almost synchronously. The wetting, reaction, and reading steps of each test strip are similar to the aforementioned process. Processing such a large number of test strips in a single test is very suitable for large testing laboratories or occasions requiring rapid screening of multiple sample indicators. It should be noted that if the number of test strips is less than the maximum number of slots, for example, if only some slots are used for testing, the test tray of this embodiment is also applicable. The liquid guide trough 2 and liquid storage trough 3 without test strips will not hinder the normal operation of other channels, and excess sample solution will eventually be collected through the overflow liquid collection trough 6, without affecting the overall test results.

[0055] Example 3

[0056] This embodiment proposes a testing method based on the single-sample multi-item combined testing device described in Embodiment 1 or Embodiment 2. It is suitable for batch quantitative testing with test strips, especially for high-throughput, multi-parameter scenarios such as clinical urine analysis. This method combines the rotating liquid dispensing structure and the diversion and guiding system of the test disc to ensure uniform distribution and stable output of the sample solution in multiple test channels. Specifically, it includes the following steps:

[0057] Step 1, Test Strip Preparation and Installation: The operator first prepares the test strips to be tested, such as urine multi-parameter test strips. According to the testing requirements, the appropriate number of test strips (e.g., 6 or 12 strips) are taken from the test strip packaging and inserted into the test strip mounting slots 10 on the test tray. The test strips must ensure that the reagent sensing end faces the center of the tray and is directly opposite their respective test liquid outlets 9. The test strips can be stably fixed by engaging the slots or by using a flexible positioning structure. In Example 1, the test tray has 6 test strip mounting slots 10, suitable for medium-batch testing; in Example 2, the test tray has 12 test strip mounting slots 10, suitable for high-throughput testing.

[0058] Step 2, Sample Injection: Keep the test tray horizontal and inject the test liquid (such as a well-mixed urine sample) into the central test liquid container 1. The injection volume should be slightly higher than the required total volume (for example, 0.2 mL per test strip, or about 2.5 mL for 12 strips). The injection should be done slowly to avoid air bubbles or liquid splashing.

[0059] Step 3, Rotation Drive and Centrifugal Separation: Install the test tray onto the matching external rotating base. Start the rotation device, and the test tray rotates around the central axis at a set speed. At this time, the test liquid in the accommodating cavity is thrown radially into multiple liquid guiding channels 2 under the action of centrifugal force. In Example 1, the liquid flows through 6 liquid guiding channels 2 and enters 6 liquid storage tanks 3 respectively; in Example 2, the liquid is simultaneously divided into 12 channels. Due to the cooperation of the diversion wall 11 and the flow limiting structure, the inlet liquid volume of each liquid guiding channel 2 is approximately the same, thereby ensuring that each liquid storage tank 3 is filled evenly.

[0060] Step four, filling and overflowing of the storage tank 3: Liquid is injected into the storage tank 3 through the liquid guide channel 2 and is smoothly vented by the air vent 4. As the liquid level in the storage tank 3 rises, when the liquid reaches the preset height, the excess test liquid automatically flows through the overflow port 5 into the overflow collection tank 6 set around the outer edge of the test plate. This process is accompanied by the pressure equalization port 7 to buffer the air pressure, maintaining a stable pressure difference between the inside and outside of the tank and preventing liquid surge or vacuum blockage. This step ensures that each storage tank 3 reaches the same liquid level, and excess samples are collected and recycled to avoid contamination or waste.

[0061] Step 5, Siphon Flow and Quantitative Addition: After the rotation stabilizes, the siphon mechanism of the drainage channel 8 is activated. Because the storage tank 3 is higher than the test liquid outlet 9, and the drainage channel 8 is designed with a curved, concave structure, the liquid flows spontaneously under the influence of gravity and air pressure, flowing along the drainage channel 8 into the test liquid outlet 9. At this time, the test liquid is added at a well-controlled flow rate above the sensing area of ​​each test strip. The dripping position is stable and accurate, ensuring that each test strip receives an equal volume of test liquid, guaranteeing consistent reaction conditions.

[0062] Step Six, Reaction and Reading: After the liquid has been added, continue rotating for approximately 10–20 seconds to ensure the test strip fully absorbs the liquid and maintains uniform reaction conditions. Then stop rotating, allow the test pan to remain stationary, and wait for the specified reaction time. Once the reaction is complete, the test results for each test strip can be read manually by colorimetry or using the provided reading device.

[0063] In Example 1, 6 test strips are read; in Example 2, 12 test strips can be read at once, significantly improving detection efficiency. Optional additional steps include automated reading and retrieval: this method can also be combined with an automatic reading module to achieve digital processing such as colorimetric comparison and optical recognition. After testing, the test strips are removed from the slot, or the entire test tray is detached for unified processing.

[0064] Through the above steps, Example 3 provides a reliable, efficient, and low-error test strip testing method, suitable for both small-scale laboratory sample-by-sample testing and multi-sample parallel analysis in medium- to large-scale institutions. Combining the structural designs of Examples 1 and 2, this method exhibits good adaptability and scalability.

[0065] In summary, all embodiments of this utility model achieve batch quantitative detection of test strips through centrifugal rotation, providing a simple, efficient, and reliable test disc solution. It should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical principles and beneficial effects of this utility model and do not limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made under the spirit and principles of this utility model should be covered within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A test disc for single sample loading and multi-project combined detection, the test disc is connected with the top of an external rotating seat, the external rotating seat is used to drive the test disc to rotate, characterized in that, The test tray is equipped with: a test liquid containing cavity, a liquid guiding groove, a liquid storage groove, an air hole, an overflow outlet, an overflow liquid collection groove, a pressure leveling hole, a diversion groove, a test liquid outlet, and a test paper mounting groove; The test liquid containing cavity is located within the test tray; the liquid guiding groove has one end connected to the test liquid containing cavity and the other end connected to the liquid storage tank; the vent is connected to the liquid storage tank; the overflow port is located at the upper part of the liquid storage tank and is connected to the overflow collection tank; the pressure equalization hole is located on the overflow collection tank; the drainage groove has one end connected to the bottom of the liquid storage tank and the other end connected to the test liquid outlet; the test paper mounting groove is located on the test tray; the test liquid outlet is located on the test tray and above the test paper mounting groove; the drainage groove is arranged at a height higher than the liquid storage tank; the test liquid containing cavity is a circular or polygonal groove located at the center of the test tray, and its side wall has an opening connected to the liquid guiding groove.

2. The test disc for single sample loading multi-project combined inspection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drainage channel is a curved channel.

3. The test disc for single sample loading multi-project combined inspection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test disk has a mounting part at the bottom center, which is mounted on the external rotating base and detachably connected to the external rotating base.

4. The test disc for single sample loading multi-project combined inspection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test paper mounting slot is provided with one or more sets of test paper fixing ribs, which are used to fix the test paper installed in the test paper mounting slot.

5. The test disc for single sample loading multi-project combined inspection according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple test paper mounting slots are evenly distributed circumferentially around the periphery of the test disk.

6. The test tray for single-sample multi-item joint testing according to claim 1, characterized in that, The test liquid container cavity is surrounded by an annular flow divider wall, which divides the test liquid container cavity into multiple flow channels. Each flow channel is connected to a corresponding liquid storage tank through a liquid guide groove.

7. The test disc for single-sample multi-project combined inspection according to claim 6, characterized in that, The overflow collection tank is an annular groove, arranged around the periphery of the test plate.

8. The test disc for single sample loading multi-project combined inspection according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an annular distribution cavity, which is disposed between the test liquid container cavity and the liquid guide channel. The annular distribution cavity surrounds the test liquid container cavity and is connected to the inlet of all liquid guide channels.

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