Assay Detector Adapter for Smartphone Quantitative Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay tests are limited to providing semi-quantitative results, making them unsuitable for precise analyte measurement above or below the detection limit, and there is a need for devices and methods that offer quantitative results while maintaining ease of use for point-of-care diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A testing device adaptable to handheld digital imaging devices, such as smartphones and tablets, that uses lateral flow assay cassettes to provide rapid, quantitative test results, eliminating the need for centralized clinical testing equipment and technical personnel, with features like expandable/contractible members for secure attachment, adjustable sample holders, and integrated light sources for even illumination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay tests are used for point-of-care testing, then ease of use and rapid results are improved, but measurement precision deteriorates (only semi-quantitative results)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the simplicity of lateral flow immunoassay with digital imaging technology and image analysis software. The assay cassette remains easy to use, while a digital camera captures images of the test results, and computer algorithms automatically analyze the image data to provide quantitative measurements. This merging allows the system to maintain ease of use while achieving laboratory-quality quantitative precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces digital imaging and image analysis as an intermediary between the lateral flow assay and the final measurement. Instead of direct visual interpretation or complex laboratory equipment, a digital camera captures the assay results, and software algorithms process the images to extract quantitative data. This intermediary enables precise measurement without requiring complex equipment or trained personnel.
2Measurement precision
If centralized clinical testing equipment is used for quantitative analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and need for trained personnel increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a digital camera to create a digital copy of the lateral flow assay results. Instead of requiring complex laboratory equipment to directly measure the assay, the camera captures an image that can be analyzed by computer algorithms. This copying approach enables quantitative analysis using simple, widely available technology rather than complex specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical and optical systems of laboratory analyzers with a digital imaging system. Instead of using sophisticated sensors, light sources, and mechanical positioning systems, the invention uses a digital camera and image processing algorithms to achieve quantitative measurement. This substitution dramatically simplifies the device while maintaining measurement precision.
3Productivity
If lateral flow assays are used for rapid testing, then speed of testing is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates (cannot provide quantitative results below detection limit)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces digital image capture and computational analysis as an intermediary that enables quantitative measurement from rapid lateral flow assays. The image capture preserves the visual information, and the analysis software extracts precise quantitative data including measurements below the visual detection limit. This intermediary allows rapid testing to provide laboratory-quality quantitative results.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the need for slow, complex laboratory instrumentation with rapid lateral flow assays combined with digital imaging. The imaging system captures the results quickly, and computer algorithms rapidly process the images to provide quantitative measurements. This substitution maintains the speed advantage of lateral flow while achieving precise quantitative capability.
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 rapid, accurate, and affordable laboratory-quality testing at the point of care, allowing for quantitative detection of analytes and automated data reporting, which can support immediate clinical decision-making without the need for expensive equipment or trained personnel.
Implementation Method 1
a light source positioned in the sample holder to emit light through the sample slot
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for performing a point of care diagnostic test. In one embodiment, such a device may be adaptable to essentially any handheld digital imaging device. Such a device may include a sample holder for positioning an assay device in relation to the digital imaging device and an expandable/contractible member having the sample holder slidably coupled thereto. The expandable/contractible member is configured for removably attaching the testing device the digital imaging device and for positioning the sample holder in relation to an image capture means of the digital imaging device. In one embodiment, such devices may include a second slot configured for receiving one or more of a second assay cassette, an assay device, assay cassettes of various sizes, a printed circuit board, and the like.