ATP Detection Device with Adjustable Support and Light Shielding

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current ATP detection systems face variability in accuracy and repeatability due to difficulties in sample acquisition and optical characteristics, with ambient light interference and awkward operation hindering precise readings.

Innovation Solution

A light detection device with an adjustable support member to maintain an optimal tilt angle and a door mechanism that prevents ambient light from entering, allowing for accurate and user-friendly operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the light detection device is held manually during operation, then the device can be easily transported and operated, but the detection accuracy varies due to hand movement and positioning instability

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveATP detection accuracyVSAvoidManual handling convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device supports itself through an integrated support member that enables autonomous positioning on surfaces. The support member with foot portion allows the device to self-stabilize at optimal angles without requiring manual holding, thereby maintaining detection accuracy while preserving operational convenience through simple surface placement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The support member is designed to be selectively extendable and adjustable, allowing the device to adapt its positioning dynamically. The support member can be extended to different angles (0-45 degrees) depending on the working surface, providing optimal stability for each operating condition while maintaining ease of deployment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If the support member is extended to an optimal angle for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveLight detection precisionVSAvoidSupport mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support function is segmented from the main housing as a separate, selectively deployable support member. This segmentation allows the support mechanism to be simple when not in use (retracted) and only activate the necessary structural complexity when positioning is required, minimizing overall device complexity while maintaining precision capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support member uses a simple, lightweight construction with a foot portion that makes temporary contact with surfaces. Rather than designing a permanently complex mounting structure, the patent employs a simple, easily deployed support element that serves its positioning function and can be easily reset, effectively using a simple temporary structure rather than a permanently complex one.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Measurement precision

If ambient light is allowed to enter the detection chamber, then the device operation is simpler without additional mechanisms, but the detection accuracy decreases due to light interference

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveLight emission detection accuracyVSAvoidLight shielding mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The harmful ambient light is extracted or excluded from the detection environment through the door mechanism. The door acts as a barrier that selectively blocks external light while allowing the device to remain otherwise simple and open for sample placement, effectively removing the interfering element without requiring complex internal light shielding within the detection chamber.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Ease of operation

If the door is kept open for easy sample access, then ease of operation is improved, but ambient light interference increases reducing measurement precision

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSample access convenienceVSAvoidATP detection precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The door operates periodically - open during sample access and closed during detection. This periodic action allows the system to alternate between the two conflicting requirements: easy sample access with the door open, and precise measurement with the door closed to block ambient light. The brief transition between states minimizes the impact on overall operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 device enhances the accuracy and repeatability of ATP detection by minimizing ambient light interference and facilitating easier operation, ensuring consistent and precise measurements.

Implementation Method 1

The presence of ATP can be measured using a bioluminescent enzymatic assay. For example, a luciferin/luciferase enzyme assay system uses ATP to generate light. This light output can be detected and quantified in a light detection device, e.g., a luminometer.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBioluminescence: Bioluminescence

Data Source

PatentEP3268721B1Light detection system
Publication Date: 2022.03.30 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES CO
  • EP3268721B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3268721B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3268721B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

Various embodiments of a light detection device and a method of using such device are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the light detection device can include a housing including a top surface and a bottom surface, where the housing extends along a housing axis between the top surface and the bottom surface; and a support member connected to the housing and adapted to be selectively moved from a closed position to an open position. The support member is further adapted to maintain the light detection device in an upright position when the bottom surface and the support member are in contact with a working surface and the support member is in the open position.