Integrated Biosensor Cassette for Single-Step Lateral Flow Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lateral flow devices for detecting analytes in solid or liquid substrates require separate, poorly integrated components and multi-step procedures, leading to end-user errors and impracticality in field locations.
Innovation Solution
A modular biosensor system that integrates an immunoassay test strip with sample extraction and liquid delivery in a small, disposable format, allowing for rapid and accurate single-step testing with minimal user training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate components (test strip, extraction buffer, pipette) are used for lateral flow testing, then the system can perform sample extraction and liquid delivery, but the device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases due to multi-step procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the test strip, extraction buffer reservoir, and liquid delivery mechanism into a single integrated lateral flow device. The extraction buffer is pre-loaded in the device housing, and the test strip is positioned to receive liquid directly from the buffer, eliminating the need for separate pipettes and manual transfer steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions (sample extraction, liquid delivery, and immunochromatographic testing) within a single unit. The housing serves both as structural support and as the liquid delivery mechanism, while the test strip integrates both the extraction buffer interface and the detection functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate components are used for lateral flow testing, then the system can perform extraction and delivery functions, but ease of operation deteriorates due to end-user errors in liquid delivery volume and location
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to perform liquid delivery automatically without requiring user intervention for volume measurement or positioning. The extraction buffer is pre-loaded in precise quantities, and the test strip geometry ensures automatic alignment, allowing the device to self-correct potential user errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction buffer and test strip are pre-configured during manufacturing with precise liquid volumes and geometric alignments. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for users to perform precise liquid handling operations, as the critical parameters are already optimized before the device reaches the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multi-step procedures are used with separate components, then extraction and delivery can be performed, but productivity decreases due to cumbersome procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device enables continuous liquid flow from the extraction buffer through the test strip without interruption. The liquid delivery mechanism is designed to maintain constant flow, eliminating the pauses and manual transfer operations required by multi-step procedures with separate components.
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 system enables rapid detection of analytes from various substrates with high accuracy and ease of use, reducing end-user errors and improving the practicality of point-of-care testing.
Implementation Method 1
The restrictor port—in combination with the test strip chamber and the bottom portion of the test strip, forms a structure that functions to create a capillary force that wicks the analyte from the bottom of the sleeve, through the restrictor port and up the test strip
Data Source
AI summary
The biosensor platform is a rapid point-of-care (POC) device wherein detection of a target substance is performed in a single step using a fully integrated disposable biosensor test system. In one embodiment, the system comprises a horizontally oriented multi-strip test cassette. A user initiates the test by depositing an analyte onto an immunochromatographic test strip sandwiched between a (top) cassette lid and a (bottom) slotted cassette tray. The test strip is held in place by at least one horizontally extending self-adjusting flex plate. The system is structured so that as the analyte flows through the test strip, the analyte reacts with a reagent in the test strip to indicate a presence or absence of the targeted substance as the test strip is held in place by the self-adjusting flex plate.