Assay Detection Apparatus with Time-Varying Threshold Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing analyte measurement devices face challenges such as subjectivity in result interpretation, sensitivity to misplacement, inconsistent fluid flow velocities, and fixed threshold values that do not account for changing test strip conditions, leading to inaccurate and delayed results.
Innovation Solution
A device with a photoelectric detection circuit, processor, and optical detection system that includes a detection zone and blank zone, where the processor adjusts threshold values based on time signals and compares detected signals to determine assay results accurately and efficiently, using a time controlling module, threshold modification module, and datum comparison module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the reading device and test strip are carefully positioned to ensure accurate detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need for precise alignment and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining the detection zone and control zone positions on the test strip before use. The reading device is pre-programmed with the expected positions of these zones, eliminating the need for real-time alignment adjustments during operation. This allows users to simply insert the test strip without careful positioning, while the device automatically detects and reads from the correct zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The reading device incorporates automatic position detection capabilities that allow it to self-adjust and locate the detection and control zones without user intervention. The device automatically identifies the test strip insertion, locates the relevant zones, and performs readings, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for manual positioning by the user.
2Measurement precision
If the light detector is placed close to the test strip to capture sufficient light signal, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for precise positioning mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the light detector at a fixed optimal distance from the test strip detection zone in the device design. This predetermined positioning ensures sufficient light capture without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms, as the optimal distance is established during device manufacturing based on optical calculations and empirical testing.
3Device complexity
If a fixed threshold value is used for result determination, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to changes in test strip conditions over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing a time-varying threshold value that automatically adjusts based on the elapsed time since test strip insertion. The threshold modification module dynamically changes the threshold according to pre-determined time points, allowing the system to adapt to changes in test strip conditions (such as drying effects) over time while maintaining simple operation for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback by using the control zone reading as a reference to adjust the determination threshold. The threshold modification module uses the ratio between detection zone and control zone signals to dynamically adjust the threshold, creating a self-correcting mechanism that compensates for variations in test strip conditions, sample application, and environmental factors.
4Measurement precision
If the testing time is extended to allow complete reaction equilibrium, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to long waiting periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the optimal reading time point during device development and testing. The time controlling module is pre-programmed with the optimal time when the reaction reaches sufficient equilibrium for accurate results. This allows the device to automatically stop reading at the precise moment when measurement precision is maximized, avoiding both premature readings and unnecessarily extended waiting times.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies the skipping principle by implementing a time-limited reading process that stops at the predetermined optimal time point rather than waiting for complete reaction equilibrium. This allows the device to skip the unnecessary extended waiting period and proceed directly to reading at the point of sufficient accuracy, thereby improving productivity while maintaining adequate measurement precision.
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 solution enables fast and accurate determination of analyte presence and content, reducing errors caused by short waiting times or prolonged testing, while considering test strip conditions and fluid flow variations, ensuring the most accurate results are obtained quickly.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric detection circuit... for measuring assay signals... detects light-reflection intensity signals
Data Source
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AI summary
A device and method for determining the assay result is disclosed. The device includes a photoelectric detection circuit and a processor, and an optical detection device which is set with a detection zone and a blank zone for measuring assay results, and the photoelectric detection circuit detects the light-reflection intensity signal, and feeds back the detected information to the processor, and the processor is preset with a threshold value changing with time, and determined value processed by the processor is compared with the preset threshold value to obtain the result of assay. The method for determining the assay result display the result when confirmed determined value is bigger than the preset threshold value or can not reach preset threshold value within a fixed time or detected signal can not be determined, wherein the threshold value changes with the time. The device and method for determining the assay result work more efficiently, measure more accurately and cost less than the prior art.