Diagnostic Device Hydrophilic Layer Capillary Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low-cost diagnostic devices face challenges in biofluid distribution due to hydrophobic detection zones, which limit wetting and distribution, requiring trained personnel for result interpretation and relying on manual handling of antibodies or instruments.
Innovation Solution
A diagnostic device with a distribution zone comprising two hydrophilic layers separated by a gap, utilizing capillary action to distribute biofluids to a detection zone with a binding element for visual indication of analyte properties, eliminating the need for external power or diluents and allowing for easy result interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the detection zone uses hydrophobic biospecific reagents to achieve specific binding, then binding specificity is improved, but liquid distribution and wetting are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a distribution zone with hydrophilic layers and a detection zone with hydrophobic reagents. The distribution zone is segmented into multiple layers (first hydrophilic layer, second hydrophilic layer) with gaps between them, allowing liquid to be distributed through capillary action without being blocked by the hydrophobic detection zone
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrophobic detection zone is extracted and separated from the liquid distribution pathway. The detection zone is positioned such that it does not interfere with the capillary-driven liquid flow, allowing the hydrophobic reagents to maintain their binding specificity while the hydrophilic distribution layers ensure complete liquid coverage
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling of antibodies and instruments is used, then test flexibility is improved, but operational complexity and training requirements are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-service through capillary action, which automatically distributes the liquid sample across the detection zone without requiring manual intervention. The hydrophilic layers self-regulate the liquid flow, eliminating the need for trained personnel to manually handle antibodies or operate complex instruments while maintaining test flexibility
3Measurement precision
If trained personnel are required for result interpretation, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but accessibility and ease of use are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses color changes or visual indicators on the detection zone to indicate test results. The hydrophobic biosspecific reagents produce visible changes (such as colorimetric signals) when binding occurs, allowing users to interpret results directly without requiring trained personnel, while maintaining diagnostic accuracy through the specificity of the binding reaction
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
Enables simple, one-step biofluid distribution and result reporting, independent of detection zone wettability, facilitating user-friendly blood typing and other biofluid analyses without requiring trained personnel or external assistance.
Implementation Method 1
a pattern of grooves, holes, and/or stripes by which the biofluid sample introduced via the top layer's opening is distributed by capillary action to reach the bottom layer; the bottom layer also has a means by which the biofluid sample distributed from the top layer, is distributed by capillary action to reach the detection layer
Data Source
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AI summary
A diagnostic device for analysing properties of an analyte in a sample liquid including: a distribution zone having at least two hydrophilic layers placed one on top of the other, wherein one layer is a top layer (12) and the other is a bottom layer (13); and a detection zone located under the distribution zone, the detection zone having a detection layer (14), wherein: the top layer has one or more openings (15) through which the sample liquid is introduced into the device; the bottom layer having one or more openings (16) connecting the distribution zone to the detection zone; the bottom layer also having a means by which the sample liquid is distributed from the top layer's opening to the detection layer through the bottom layer's opening; and a visual indication results on the detection layer when the sample liquid comes into contact with the detection layer.