Integrated Allergen Detection Device with On-Board Food Grinding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for detecting allergens, such as gluten, require multiple components and necessitate users to process food samples manually, which can lead to exposure risks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained allergen detection device that integrates a grinding mechanism with a lateral flow test, allowing for on-the-go testing of food samples without the need for external equipment or manual processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for allergen detection, then detection capability is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (food processor, lateral flow test, and processing equipment) into a single integrated device. The food processor and lateral flow test are merged into one unit, eliminating the need for separate equipment and reducing the number of components the user must handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions within a single unit: it can process various types of food samples (solids and liquids), perform allergen detection, and provide results. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate processing equipment and makes the device adaptable to different testing scenarios.
2Reliability
If manual food processing is required, then allergen detection can be performed, but ease of operation and safety deteriorate due to exposure risks
Solution Approach 1:
The food processing function and allergen detection function are merged into a single integrated device. The lateral flow test is incorporated directly into the food processor, allowing users to load the food sample once and complete both processing and detection without manual intervention or exposure to allergens.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs food processing and allergen detection automatically without requiring user intervention. The system self-manages the processing of the food sample and the detection process, eliminating the need for users to manually handle food samples and reducing exposure risks.
3Ease of manufacture
If separate processing equipment is used, then food samples can be processed, but productivity and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the food processing capability and allergen detection capability into a single device. This integration eliminates the need for separate processing equipment and allows users to complete the entire testing process in one device, significantly improving productivity and convenience.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enables rapid and accurate detection of allergens in various food types, reducing exposure risks and improving convenience by eliminating the need for separate processing equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a mixture of a lateral flow test liquid and the ground food sample is to saturate a portion of a lateral flow test material to indicate whether the food sample includes an allergen
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus relating to detection of allergens using a lateral flow test are described. In an embodiment, an apparatus comprises: a food processor to receive a food sample and a lid to engage the food processor mechanically to grind the food sample. A mixture of a lateral flow test liquid and the ground food sample saturates a portion of a lateral flow test material to indicate whether the food sample includes an allergen. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.