Chromogenic Filter Device for Rapid Microbial Quantification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting and quantifying microorganisms in samples, such as in water and food testing, often focus on presence/absence rather than quantification, which is crucial for industries like wastewater treatment and food quality control, and lack efficient tools for rapid and accurate enumeration of microorganisms.
Innovation Solution
A detection device with a filtration membrane and discrete capture locations, combined with a growth medium and chromogenic substrates, allows for the capture, growth, and quantification of microorganisms within 4-6 hours, using enzyme substrates that produce detectable signals under UV light, enabling both detection and quantification of target microorganisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional presence/absence testing methods are used, then the testing process is simple and quick, but quantification of microorganism concentration cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is divided into multiple discrete locations or zones, each capable of capturing and indicating the presence of microorganisms. This segmentation allows quantification by counting positive zones while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A growth medium is introduced as an intermediary substance that enables microorganism growth and produces visible indicators (such as color changes via chromogenic substrates) when microorganisms are present. This mediator transforms the invisible microbial presence into a quantifiable visual signal without significantly complicating the device.
2Productivity
If rapid detection within 4-6 hours is achieved, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The growth medium parameters are optimized to support rapid microorganism growth and early indicator production within 4-6 hours. Chromogenic substrates are selected and configured to produce detectable signals at lower microorganism concentrations and shorter timeframes, enabling both rapid detection and accurate quantification simultaneously.
3Measurement precision
If discrete capture locations are used for quantification, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter surface is divided into multiple discrete locations or zones that can be easily defined and counted. This segmentation provides the basis for quantification by allowing users to count the number of positive zones, achieving measurement precision without requiring complex device architecture.
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 device effectively captures and quantifies microorganisms, providing rapid and accurate results, enhancing the ability to determine microbial concentrations in samples, improving water and food quality assessments.
Implementation Method 1
a filtration membrane on top of and in contact with the absorbent pad
Implementation Method 2
The filter can comprise one or more different enzyme substrates at one or more different discrete locations
Implementation Method 3
The detecting can comprise exposing the filter to ultraviolet light at a wavelength or wavelengths capable of exciting one or more hydrolyzed enzyme substrates
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides devices and methods for rapid quantification of microorganisms and cells. In one embodiment, the devices comprise a container having an upper compartment and a lower compartment, wherein the upper compartment is connected to a passage through which a fluid sample can flow and enter the upper compartment, and wherein the lower compartment is connected to a passage through which a fluid sample can flow and exit the lower compartment; a mounting structure upon which a filter can be positioned; a filter, wherein the filter separates the upper compartment from the lower compartment, wherein the filter comprises a chromogen; a first template covering the filter, wherein the first template comprises a predetermined number of holes through which a liquid sample can flow through to discrete locations on the filter; and an absorbent pad under the filter and in contact with the filter.