Assay Reader Fixed Detector Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional assay test strip readers are costly and limited in their ability to detect multiple analyte regions on a test strip without requiring expensive scanning equipment or multiple detectors, making them unsuitable for broad implementation as consumer products.
Innovation Solution
A portable assay reader with fixed detectors that utilize the relative motion between the test strip and the reader to scan for multiple analyte regions, eliminating the need for electro-mechanical scanning mechanisms and allowing detection of multiple analyte regions without additional detectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional opto-electronic readers use imaging-based detectors or multiple photodiodes to detect multiple analyte regions, then detection capability is improved, but device cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the test strip movable relative to the stationary detector. Instead of having multiple stationary detectors or complex imaging systems, a single detector scans along the length of the test strip as the strip moves through the reader, enabling detection of multiple analyte regions with minimal hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electro-mechanical scanning mechanisms with simple user-driven manual insertion and removal of the test strip. The relative motion between the strip and detector is achieved through basic mechanical insertion rather than motors or complex positioning systems, significantly reducing device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If imaging-based opto-electronic readers are used to capture images of the assay strip, then multiple analyte regions can be detected, but the cost of optical detectors and supporting electronics becomes prohibitively high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential detection function from complex imaging systems. Instead of using cameras or array detectors with supporting electronics for image capture and processing, a single photodiode detector is used to detect optical signals at different positions along the test strip, dramatically reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive photodiode detectors rather than expensive imaging sensors. The simplicity of the detector allows for low-cost manufacturing, making the device suitable for consumer-based applications where cost is a critical factor
3Measurement precision
If photodiode-based readers with multiple detectors are used to monitor multiple analyte regions, then detection accuracy is improved, but the device becomes less scalable and more expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single detector universal by using it to detect multiple analyte regions at different positions along the test strip. Through relative motion between the strip and detector, one detector performs the function of multiple detectors, improving scalability while maintaining detection accuracy for multiple analytes
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 low-cost, portable detection of multiple analyte regions on assay test strips, reducing human error and improving accessibility for medical diagnostics by using a single detector or array of detectors fixed within the reader.
Implementation Method 1
a detector positioned within the body such that upon moving the assay test strip outward relative to the body, the detector detects an optical characteristic of each of the plurality of analyte reaction regions of the assay test strip
Data Source
AI summary
Low-cost assay test strip readers are disclosed. Such readers enable creation of profiles of analyte reactions detected on an assay test strip utilizing a simple detector fixedly mounted to a body of the reader. The detector may be a single detector, such as a photodetector, which detects an optical signal at a single point. The assay test strip is inserted and/or removed from the test strip reader and the detector detects the optical elements of the strip during such insertion and/or removal. The movement of the test strip with respect to the body enables the detector to scan a length of the test strip, such that a one-dimensional profile of the optical signals can be generated. The reader may convert the detected profile into a displayable indication of analyte concentrations for diagnostic purposes. Moving the test strip relative to an array of detectors enables creation of a two-dimensional profile.