Biosecurity Screening System for Rapid Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biosecurity screening methods are ineffective in identifying individuals carrying contagious pathogens before clinical symptoms appear, as they cannot simultaneously test multiple individuals for multiple agents quickly and reliably, and do not allow for immediate movement restrictions.
Innovation Solution
A biosecurity screening system that uses diagnostic test cartridges with sample, reagent, and reaction chambers in selective fluidic communication, capable of performing PCR for nucleic acid amplification, allowing for rapid testing of multiple pathogens simultaneously, and conveying results to authorities for immediate decision-making.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If symptom-based detection methodology is used to identify carriers of harmful biological agents, then the screening process is simple and easy to operate, but it is completely ineffective when carriers have not yet exhibited clinical symptoms
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs diagnostic testing on biological samples before clinical symptoms appear, enabling early detection during the incubation period. By collecting and analyzing samples (blood, saliva, urine, swabs) prior to symptom onset, the system identifies carriers in advance, allowing preventive measures to be taken before transmission occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual symptom assessment with automated diagnostic testing instruments that perform PCR and other molecular tests. This substitution of mechanical/manual processes with automated analytical systems enables reliable detection of biological agents without requiring clinical symptom evaluation.
2Productivity
If traditional screening methods test individuals sequentially for multiple pathogens, then the testing process is simple to manage, but it cannot simultaneously test multiple individuals for multiple agents quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple diagnostic test cartridges within a single testing instrument, enabling simultaneous testing for multiple pathogens (Ebola, Lassa, Marburg, smallpox, anthrax) across multiple samples. This merging of testing capabilities into one integrated system achieves high-throughput screening without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic testing instrument is designed with universal functionality to handle various pathogen types through different test cartridges. A single instrument can perform PCR, real-time PCR, and other diagnostic tests for diverse biological agents, eliminating the need for pathogen-specific equipment and enabling simultaneous multi-pathogen screening.
3Loss of time
If rapid diagnostic testing is implemented to identify carriers before symptoms appear, then public health protection is improved, but the complexity of sample processing and analysis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic system is segmented into modular components: sample collection devices, transport mechanisms, multiple specialized test cartridges (each for specific pathogens), and automated analysis instruments. This segmentation allows parallel processing of different sample types and pathogen detections, reducing overall testing time while managing complexity through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces automated sample processing intermediaries including robotic sample handlers, automated extraction systems, and integrated fluidic communication between chambers. These intermediary devices automate complex sample preparation and processing steps, reducing manual intervention time while managing analytical complexity through automation.
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 and reliable identification of individuals carrying pathogens, allowing for immediate action to restrict movement and protect public health by providing quick test results within hours or minutes, even before symptoms appear.
Implementation Method 1
The amplification reaction includes a polymerase chain reaction (PCR), such as a real time PCR.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides systems and methods for rapid screening of individuals who may have been exposed to and carrying biological agents potentially contagious or otherwise harmful to the general public.