Automated Fluorometer Configuration for Multi-Analyte Quantification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluorometers require users to manually select filters, light sources, and sensitivity settings, and perform tedious calculations for analyte measurements, posing barriers for untrained users and increasing operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A device with integrated analyte sensing elements and automated algorithms that automatically select the appropriate light sources, filters, and sensitivity settings for specific assays, allowing for seamless operation and simplified data analysis, using a disposable microcentrifuge tube without the need for computer connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluorometers are designed as versatile instruments with multiple filter sets and adjustable sensitivities, then they can perform many different types of assays, but the user complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the assay-specific components (filters, light sources, sensitivity settings) into pre-configured assay modules. Each module is optimized for a specific assay type, allowing the device to handle multiple assays while keeping the user interface simple. The user selects from predefined assay types rather than manually configuring individual parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-configuration by automatically selecting the appropriate filter sets, light sources, and sensitivity settings based on the selected assay type. This eliminates the need for users to manually adjust multiple parameters, reducing operational complexity while maintaining versatility across different assay types.
2Ease of operation
If conventional fluorometers require manual filter and light source selection, then users have control over measurement parameters, but the time required for setup and operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary configuration by pre-setting filter combinations, light source selections, and sensitivity parameters for each assay type. When a user selects an assay, the device has already prepared the optimal settings, eliminating the need for manual configuration and significantly reducing setup time while maintaining parameter control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fluorometers display relative fluorescence values requiring standard curves and calculations, then measurement flexibility is maintained, but the complexity of data analysis increases for untrained users
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-analysis by automatically generating standard curves from internal standards, calculating analyte concentrations, and presenting final results. This eliminates the need for users to manually create standard curves or perform calculations, making the device accessible to untrained users while maintaining measurement flexibility through selectable assay types.
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces the manual mechanical process of creating standard curves and performing calculations with automated computational algorithms. The system uses embedded processors to automatically analyze fluorescence data, generate concentration values, and present results, substituting complex manual operations with automated electronic processing.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If conventional fluorometers require computer connection for data analysis, then sophisticated calculations can be performed, but the device complexity and required infrastructure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the data analysis capabilities previously separated in external computer software with the instrument itself. By integrating processing power, storage, and analysis algorithms directly into the fluorometer, the device performs sophisticated calculations independently, eliminating the need for separate computer infrastructure while maintaining advanced analytical capabilities.
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
Facilitates intuitive and efficient analyte measurement by reducing user complexity, minimizing the number of required standards, and eliminating the need for additional hardware and software setup, thus enhancing usability and reducing operational time.
Implementation Method 1
a light source that emits light at a specific wavelength
Implementation Method 2
an excitation filter that isolates the excitation wavelength from the light source
Implementation Method 3
an emission filter that isolates the emission wavelength from the sample
Implementation Method 4
a photodetector to detect the emitted light from the sample
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for measuring the quantity of multiple analytes in a sample can include a device designed such that each of the analyte sensing elements is configured to measure the quantity of a predetermined analyte and machine executable instructions configured to select the proper analyte sensing element corresponding to the analyte to be measured.