Coaxial Sample Prep Module for Point-of-Care Nucleic Acid Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological analysis techniques require centralized laboratory facilities, trained technicians, and specific resources, limiting their use in point-of-care and resource-limited settings where immediate and accurate diagnostics are needed.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a sample preparation module with a pressure cap and coaxially arranged layers to isolate analytes, allowing for sample preparation, fluid path modification, and pressure generation using a single mechanical movement, enabling efficient nucleic acid-based diagnostics at the point of care.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If centralized laboratory facilities and trained technicians are used for biological analysis, then analysis accuracy and reliability are improved, but device complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple coaxially arranged layers (first layer, second layer, third layer) that can be selectively connected to form different fluid paths. Each layer contains specific functional elements (lysis solution, capture material, wash solution, elution solution) that perform discrete analytical functions, allowing complex sample processing to be broken down into manageable segments that can be executed in a simplified point-of-care device
Solution Approach 2:
The sample preparation module integrates multiple functions into a single device: sample lysis, analyte capture, washing, and elution can all be performed using the same coaxial layer structure by selectively connecting different fluid paths. The central shaft with threaded section and complementary keys provides a universal mechanical interface for controlling all these operations through rotation
2Measurement precision
If multiple fluid paths are used for sample preparation, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fluid paths that would traditionally require separate channels and valves are merged into a single coaxial structure. The first, second, and third layers can be selectively connected to the central shaft to create different fluid flow configurations, allowing multiple analytical functions to be achieved through a unified mechanical design rather than complex independent pathways
3Ease of operation
If manual sample preparation techniques are used, then ease of operation is improved, but productivity and speed of analysis decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The sample preparation process is organized into periodic cycles where the central shaft rotates to different positions (first position, second position, third position) to sequentially perform lysis, capture, washing, and elution steps. This periodic mechanical rotation automates the sample preparation workflow, maintaining operational simplicity while significantly increasing analysis speed compared to manual techniques
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 immediate, accurate, and cost-effective nucleic acid diagnostics with quality control measures, suitable for point-of-care settings by simplifying sample preparation and reducing resource requirements.
Implementation Method 1
rotation of the shaft relative to the housing compresses the compartment thereby generating pressure against the upstream surface of the first coaxially arranged layer
Implementation Method 2
The coaxially arranged layers have complementary facing surfaces assembled in a frictional, sealed engagement
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to fluidic systems for controlling one or more fluids or reagents. These systems can be used in combination with one or more devices for assaying, processing, or storing samples. In particular, the systems and related methods can allow for controlled pressure and actuation of fluids.