Two-Sided Channel Plate Fluid Handling for Microbial Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting and concentrating dilute microbiological organisms in liquids are time-consuming, resource-intensive, and require specialized equipment and training, making them unsuitable for rapid and reliable field sampling.
Innovation Solution
A fluid handling apparatus with a two-sided channel plate and a movable valve plate that allows for the concentration of microbiological particles from a dilute sample through filtration and directed fluid flow, enabling manual operation and analysis of concentrated samples without specialized lab equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional filtration and concentration methods are used, then microbiological particles can be concentrated from dilute samples, but the process requires large and complex laboratory equipment and specialized training
Solution Approach 1:
The concentration device is divided into multiple functional modules: a filtration module with filter elements, a concentration module with channel plates having fluid channels, and a valve module with rotary valves. Each module performs a specific function in the concentration process, allowing the system to achieve high concentration ratios while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs nested structural arrangements where filter elements are positioned within channels, channel plates are stacked with fluid channels aligned between them, and valve components are integrated into the flow path. This nesting allows multiple functions to be combined in a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining concentration capability
2Measurement precision
If conventional concentration methods are used, then accurate quantification of microorganisms can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary concentration and filtration actions before analysis is required. By pre-concentrating the sample through the channel plate and filter elements, the system prepares the sample in advance, reducing the time needed for subsequent analysis and enabling rapid detection without requiring time-consuming laboratory procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces traditional mechanical filtration and manual processing methods with an integrated fluid handling system that uses pressure-driven flow through channel plates and filter elements. This substitution of manual mechanical operations with a streamlined fluid dynamic system reduces processing time while maintaining measurement precision
3Reliability
If specialized laboratory equipment and training are used, then reliable detection of microbiological organisms can be achieved, but field sampling becomes complicated and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with universal functionality that can operate in both laboratory and field settings. The integrated design combining filtration, concentration, and fluid handling in a single portable unit allows it to perform multiple functions without requiring separate specialized equipment, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates self-contained features including integrated fluid pathways, automatic flow control through valve mechanisms, and built-in concentration capabilities that eliminate the need for external laboratory infrastructure. This self-service design allows operators with limited training to conduct reliable microbiological detection in field conditions without requiring specialized laboratory support
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 rapid and reliable concentration and analysis of microbiological samples, allowing for field-based detection and quantification of microbiological material, reducing the need for complex equipment and specialized training.
Implementation Method 1
a filter for receiving dilute sample fluid from the sample port; and a needle to eject the concentrated sample into the sample vial
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of channel ports extending from the first face to the second face for directing fluid between the first face and the second face of the channel plate; a plurality of fluid channels, the fluid channels on the first face and the second face of the channel plate, each fluid channel fluidly connected to at least one channel port
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid handling apparatus having a two-sided channel plate with channel ports extending from one side to the other. Fluid channels on both sides of the channel plate connected to the channel ports direct fluid through the channel plate in a desired fluid path, and the first face and the second face of the channel plate are sealed to fluidly encase the fluid channels.