Assay Card Tracking Label and Compression Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological and chemical assays lack effective methods for uniquely identifying, tracking, and monitoring devices used in these assays, which is crucial for providing information about assay types, reagents, manufacturing details, and troubleshooting.
Innovation Solution
A trackable device for sample analysis comprising movable plates with a tracking label that can be imaged by a camera, allowing for machine-readable information related to the device, including assay types, manufacturing details, and troubleshooting, using configurations that compress samples into a uniform thickness for imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two plates are used to compress the sample into a uniform layer, then the sample can be imaged by a camera, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate plates (first plate and second plate) that can be moved independently. The first plate holds the sample contact area, while the second plate applies compression force. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall device manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second plate is designed to be movable relative to the first plate, transitioning between a first position (for sample deposition) and a second position (for compression). This dynamic design enables the device to adapt its configuration based on the operational stage, facilitating both sample loading and compression functions without requiring a completely static complex structure.
2Loss of information
If a tracking label is added to the device, then device identification and tracking are enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of adding complex identification hardware or electronic tags, the patent uses a tracking label that creates a visual copy or representation of device information. This label can be read by external detection systems, providing device identification and tracking capabilities through a simple optical interface rather than complex embedded systems.
3Manufacturing precision
If the plates are made movable to enable compression, then sample uniformity is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The second plate is designed to be movable relative to the first plate, transitioning between a first position (for sample deposition) and a second position (for compression). This dynamic design enables the device to adapt its configuration based on the operational stage, facilitating both sample loading and compression functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is configured to first allow sample deposition on the first plate before the second plate is moved into the compression position. This preliminary action sequence ensures that the sample is properly placed and prepared before compression begins, maintaining operational simplicity while achieving uniform sample layers.
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 efficient identification, tracking, and monitoring of devices during assays, providing essential information about assay processes, reagents, and manufacturing details, enhancing assay management and troubleshooting capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
at least part of the sample is compressed by the two plates into a layer of uniform thickness and is substantially stagnant relative to the plates
Data Source
AI summary
Among other things, the present invention is related to devices, systems, and methods of performing biological and chemical assays for certain analysis and to the identification, tracking, and monitoring of these devices and systems.