Device for ensuring correct results in joint self-tests

Abstract

A device for ensuring correct results in joint self-tests, characterized in that this invention, available to each participant and consisting of various system parts – as well as its logical, physical, and data-related interconnection – autonomously regulates and controls the procedure of a participating group of people both temporarily and logically, such that the control unit (SE) of the device informs the group of people around the time of the desired reporting level (M) with infection status (INFQ) (VI), at which time (S) an optionally video-documented self-test (T1, VS) – alternatively (self-)tests with other personal identification – is to be carried out immediately, wherein an included random function (RAN) ensures that this time is not predictable, and in the case of the video-documented self-test, the test stick of the device is marked (K) for identification in the video evaluation.which can also be AI-based, and the swab (TU) has an additive / impregnation with an acid indicator (INDI) so that deliberate wetting by acidic substances by the test subject – and the associated discoloration – leads to an invalid test result – and the non-distribution of a reward; and the device determines the sum of all positive test results (INFM) from the tests (T1), whereby the device then calculates the time interval (INT) after which, in the case of a positive initial test (T1), a second test (T2) must be carried out in order to obtain the reward for the test subject and their housemates if the test result is again positive and quarantine (Q1) has been observed, wherein the calculation is reciprocal – for example, with the calculation approach Q1*(1-INFQ / INFM) – and the resulting adaptive shortening of the test interval (INT) is intended to achieve as many justified reward distributions as possible.

Description

[0001] An alternative approach to pandemic management involves people collectively increasing their efforts to prevent infections, including offering rewards to infected individuals and their housemates for adhering to quarantine. However, the prospect of a reward carries the risk of undermining the incentive system through deliberate falsification of results. The possibilities for falsification are numerous: acidic drinks introduced into the nose beforehand can produce a false-positive test result, as can deliberate self-infection before testing, or the use of unauthorized testing kits.

[0002] All these problems are solved by the features listed in claim 1.

[0003] The device's control unit (SE) informs (VI) the group of people around the time of the desired reporting level (M) with infection status (INFQ), at which time (S) an optional video-documented self-test (T1, VS) – or alternatively, a (self-)test with other personal identification – must be carried out immediately. An integrated random function (RAN) ensures that this time is unpredictable, thus making deliberate self-infection unattractive.In the case of video-documented self-testing, the device's test stick has a marker (K) for identification in the video analysis, which can also be AI-based, and the swab (TU) is impregnated with an acid indicator (INDI). This means that deliberate contact with acidic substances by the test subject—and the resulting discoloration—leads to an invalid test result and the withholding of a reward. The device calculates the sum of all positive test results (INFM) from the tests (T1). The device then calculates the time interval (INT) after which, in the case of a positive initial test (T1), a second test (T2) must be performed. If the second test result is positive and the quarantine period (Q1) is observed, the reward is paid to the test subject and their housemates. This calculation is reciprocal—for example, using the formula Q1 * (1-INFQ / INFM).The resulting adaptive shortening of the test interval (INT) ensures as many justified reward payouts as possible.

[0004] This approach elegantly prevents any deliberate self-infection to obtain unjustified rewards. Above all, the interconnected arrangement of the system components ensures the exclusion of fraud because, firstly, a temporal uncertainty renders deliberate self-infection pointless; secondly, a high infection rate above the expected value temporarily resolves / reduces the simultaneous success rate of T1 and T2; furthermore, physical elements such as a test strip with an acid indicator also reduce fraudulent attempts.

[0005] The advantages of this device are that it optimizes the efficiency of infection prevention, reduces sick leave, deaths, and economic damage during the pandemic because the participating group perceives the incentive of a reward and acts with high motivation, particularly by wanting to participate voluntarily. Ultimately, the device is beneficial for the state, the citizens, and the economy simultaneously, provided a large group participates. The device can also be integrated into existing government or legal measures. Its clear guidelines and minimal resources ensure its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, the device achieves the shortest possible duration for the smallest possible group of people while maintaining motivation. Moreover, widespread participation may even eliminate the need for mandatory vaccination.

[0006] One variant of the device (claim 2) is that the second test is omitted during the process because the calculation of the interval (INT) has fallen below a predetermined minimum distance and the positive test (T1) results in a reward.

[0007] One variant of the device (claim 3) is that the option of a supplementary, additional medical test to fulfill the test requirements is optionally granted.

[0008] One variant of the device (claim 4) is that a safety interval (Si) can be added to or subtracted from any values ​​and criteria.

[0009] One variant of the device (claim 5) is that the indicator substance for indicating intentional acidity is additionally or alternatively located in the buffer / extraction solution or in the test cassette of the test kit. Fig. Section 1 describes the functional structure of the invention. Reference symbol list VI Request for immediate test T1 I Infectious part of the incubation period Duration of infectiousness during illness S Start day with exact start time for test T1 T1 / T2 test, if necessary video-documented self-test or other authenticated test to detect infection Q1 Timeframe for occasional quarantine / lockdown FREE Period of time in which no or only conventional, non-burdensome pandemic measures apply TIME Arrow of Time M Reporting level, which infection volume triggers a new RANDOM calculation of a start day S I+ANS Effective period of infectivity Si optional safety interval / minimum interval between two tests RAN time window with random function for defining VI INFQ Official Infection Rate / optionally scientifically determined INFM Total number of positive test results of participants / subjects SE control unit INT Calculated interval between first and second test VS Video-documented self-test An official, medical test, or one performed by a testing center TU swab K marking for identifying the test kit to be used INDI indicator for acid with color effect Q1x(1-INFQ / INFM) Inverse-like calculation approach, optional Q1*(1-INFQ / INFM)

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