Portable Analyte Detection Cartridge for Fast Accurate Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional molecule detection technologies require expensive equipment and expert personnel, leading to long wait times and increased risk of illness or contamination spread due to the need for laboratory-based testing.
Innovation Solution
Development of portable, user-friendly analyte detection systems that include a sample collection device, cartridge device, and reader device, enabling rapid detection of molecules in non-clinical settings with minimal technical expertise and biohazard risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional laboratory-based molecule detection is used, then detection accuracy and reliability are improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection function into two segments: a complex reader device that remains in the laboratory and a simple portable cartridge that can be used anywhere. The cartridge contains all necessary reagents and reaction chambers, while the reader performs the actual detection. This segmentation allows high reliability detection to be achieved through the sophisticated reader while the portable portion remains simple and easy to use.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable cartridge serves as an intermediary between the sample collection point and the laboratory reader. It contains pre-loaded reagents and reaction chambers that prepare the sample for analysis, acting as a bridge that transfers the detection function to non-laboratory settings while maintaining connection to the sophisticated detection capabilities of the laboratory reader.
2Measurement precision
If conventional laboratory-based molecule detection is used, then detection precision is improved, but response time deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is prepared in advance with all necessary reagents loaded into separate chambers and the reaction pathway pre-configured. When a sample is introduced, the detection process can begin immediately without waiting for reagent preparation or setup. The preliminary preparation of the cartridge enables rapid response while maintaining detection precision through the sophisticated reader device.
3Reliability
If conventional laboratory-based molecule detection is used, then detection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates operational complexity from portability by placing all complex components (reagents, reaction chambers, fluidics) in the disposable cartridge, while the reusable reader device remains in the laboratory. This allows non-experts to simply collect samples and insert cartridges, while the sophisticated detection reliability is maintained by the laboratory-based reader.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed as a disposable, single-use component that contains all necessary reagents and reaction elements. This eliminates the need for trained personnel to handle complex reagents or perform complex operations - users simply insert the pre-prepared cartridge, and it is discarded after one use, maintaining detection reliability through consistent manufacturing quality.
4Measurement precision
If conventional laboratory-based molecule detection is used, then detection accuracy is improved, but accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the detection function into a portable cartridge that can be used in any setting and a laboratory-based reader that provides accurate detection. This allows detection capabilities to be extended to remote locations, schools, and non-laboratory settings while maintaining accuracy through the sophisticated reader device that remains in the laboratory.
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
Enables quick and accurate detection of various analytes, including pathogens and contaminants, in non-laboratory settings, reducing wait times and improving public health response by allowing for timely identification and action.
Implementation Method 1
A sonicator element may be disposed in the housing and configured to transmit controlled amounts of energy into the sample preparation reservoir
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B~1C
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for detecting molecules of interest within a collected sample are described herein. In certain embodiments, self-contained sample analysis systems are disclosed, which include a reusable reader component, a disposable cartridge component, and a disposable sample collection component. The reader component may communicate with a remote computing device for the digital transmission of test protocols and test results. In various disclosed embodiments, the systems, components, and methods are configured to identify the presence, absence, and/or quantity of particular nucleic acids, proteins, or other analytes of interest, for example, in order to test for the presence of one or more pathogens or contaminants in a sample.