Bacterial Detection Cartridge with Segmented Lid for Rapid Blood Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated blood culture systems take too long to detect infectious microorganisms in blood samples, often resulting in delayed treatment and increased mortality due to the time-consuming process of segregating samples into smaller volumes for detection.
Innovation Solution
A bacterial detection cartridge system that isolates a bulk blood sample into multiple smaller compartments using a mechanism with a cartridge lid and tray, allowing for rapid detection of microorganisms without the need for manual dispensing, utilizing a sensor to determine the presence of infectious agents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the blood sample is divided into multiple smaller volume samples for detection, then the detection sensitivity and speed are improved, but the complexity of the workflow and time required for sample preparation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is divided into multiple separate compartments, each capable of holding a small volume sample. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high detection sensitivity through small volume samples while eliminating the need for manual sample division, as the compartments are pre-configured in the cartridge structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is pre-assembled with multiple compartments before use. The sample division function is built into the cartridge structure in advance, eliminating the need for operators to perform time-consuming manual sample segregation during the testing process.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual dispensing of sample into individual compartments is performed, then sample distribution control is improved, but the time consumption and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge structure itself provides the sample distribution function through its pre-configured compartments. When the liquid sample is introduced into the cartridge, it automatically distributes among the compartments based on their physical arrangement, eliminating the need for manual dispensing operations while maintaining controlled distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The sample introduction function and the compartment distribution function are merged into a single integrated cartridge structure. The sample is introduced once into the cartridge and automatically partitions into multiple compartments simultaneously, combining what would otherwise be separate manual operations into one automated process.
3Measurement precision
If a large number of small volume compartments are used for sample division, then detection accuracy is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge is manufactured as a single integrated piece with multiple compartments formed directly in the structure. This segmentation is achieved through mold design rather than assembling multiple separate components, which maintains detection accuracy through precise compartment formation while simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sample containment, sample distribution into multiple compartments, and structural support for the detection system. This multi-functionality is built into a single manufactured component, eliminating the need for separate parts and reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are methods and apparatus for rapid detection of microorganisms in biological samples (e.g. blood) for analysis to determine the presence or absence of infectious microorganisms in the samples. The apparatus includes a cartridge with a lid and a tray, a mechanism for isolating a bulk sample into multiple smaller samples, and a sensor disposed on the tray to determine the presence or absence of microorganisms. The cartridge lid includes projections that, in a first position, allow for sample to distribute evenly in the cartridge tray and, in a second position, isolate the sample into multiple smaller volume samples. The apparatus and method shorten the time-to-detection of a microorganism in a sample and reduce the steps required from sample collection to microorganism detection.