Interchangeable Detection Module Alignment for Luminescence Assays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luminescence-based assay systems face challenges in maintaining consistent performance due to the inseparable and integrated nature of detection mechanisms, which complicates manufacturing, servicing, and integration across different apparatus formats, leading to inconsistent results.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained detection module with a housing containing a light detector and a control board, including a microcontroller, motion control, and communication electronics, designed for interchangeable use across various apparatus formats, enabling standardized manufacturing and simplified maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the detection mechanism is integrated into the plate reading apparatus, then the system provides stable detection function, but the manufacturing, servicing, and integration become complicated and inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The detection mechanism is separated from the plate reading apparatus into an independent detection module that can be manufactured, serviced, and integrated separately. This module includes a housing with a light detector, positioning features, and engagement elements that interface with the apparatus without being permanently integrated into it.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection module is designed with standardized engagement elements and positioning features that enable it to be interchangeably integrated into different apparatus formats and configurations. This universal design allows the same detection module to serve multiple functions across different plate reading apparatus variants.
2Ease of manufacture
If the detection mechanism is made interchangeable and replaceable, then the manufacturing efficiency and maintenance simplicity improve, but the alignment and engagement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The detection module includes pre-formed positioning features and engagement elements that are manufactured in advance with precise dimensions and tolerances. These features are built into the module housing during manufacturing, ensuring that when the module is installed in the apparatus, the alignment is automatically achieved without requiring additional precision work during integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The engagement elements act as intermediaries between the detection module and the apparatus, providing a standardized interface that ensures precise alignment. These elements include positioning features that guide the module into correct orientation and engagement features that secure it in place, transferring the precision requirement from the integration process to the manufactured components themselves.
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 detection module provides consistent performance and flexibility by allowing interchangeable integration into different assay systems, enhancing manufacturing efficiency and maintenance simplicity while supporting a range of assay formats and results.
Implementation Method 1
measure changes in optical absorbance, emission of luminescence (e.g., fluorescence, phosphorescence, chemiluminescence, and electrochemiluminescence)
Implementation Method 2
The plate bottom has patterned conductive layers that provide the wells with electrode surfaces that act as both solid phase supports for binding reactions as well as electrodes for inducing electrochemiluminescence (ECL)
Data Source
AI summary
We describe a detection module useful with an apparatus and/or system for conducting luminescence assays, and a kit, a system, an apparatus, and a method incorporating the detection module.