Diagnostic Strip Channel Layout for Smooth Multi-Test Specimen Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in vitro diagnostic strips face challenges in efficiently spreading and processing a clinical specimen for multiple diagnostics, with specimens not smoothly flowing through channels and requiring manual recognition of diagnostic items.
Innovation Solution
The diagnostic strip features a main spread channel, sub-spread channels, and vent channels with varying widths to facilitate smooth specimen flow via capillary action, accompanied by a label for automatic scanning and diagnostics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single main spread channel is used for specimen flow, then the structure is simple, but the specimen does not flow smoothly to multiple diagnostic channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single main spread channel into multiple sub-spread channels that branch off from the main channel. This segmentation allows the clinical specimen to flow smoothly through the main channel and then distribute into multiple sub-channels for parallel diagnostic testing, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and smooth multi-channel flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different width dimensions to different channel segments: the main spread channel has a first width, sub-spread channels have a second width (narrower than main), and vent channels have a third width (narrowest). This local quality variation optimizes capillary action at each stage, enabling smooth specimen flow through the hierarchical channel structure.
2Ease of operation
If uniform width channels are used, then manufacturing is simple, but capillary action is insufficient for smooth specimen suction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by assigning different width specifications to different functional zones: main spread channel (first width), sub-spread channels (second width), and vent channels (third width). This localized dimension variation enhances capillary action in each zone according to its specific function, while the overall structure remains manufacturable through standardized molding processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameter (width) of the channels to optimize capillary action. By varying the width parameter across different channel types, the patent enhances the capillary forces that drive specimen flow without requiring external power sources or complex pumping mechanisms.
3Productivity
If manual recognition of diagnostic items is required, then device complexity is low, but diagnostic efficiency and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by incorporating a barcode or QR code label on the strip that automatically identifies diagnostic items when scanned by the diagnostic device. The system reads the code and automatically retrieves the corresponding diagnostic information, eliminating manual recognition and significantly improving diagnostic efficiency without requiring complex additional hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of diagnostic item recognition with an optical/electronic scanning system. The barcode/QR code label combined with automated scanning substitutes human visual inspection and manual data entry, thereby increasing productivity and reducing errors.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sub-spread channels are added for various diagnostics, then diagnostic versatility increases, but specimen flow distribution becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the specimen flow path into a main spread channel that receives the clinical specimen and multiple sub-spread channels that branch off to perform different diagnostics. This segmentation enables one specimen to be distributed to multiple test channels simultaneously, achieving diagnostic versatility while maintaining smooth flow through proper channel design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses local quality by making sub-spread channels narrower (second width) compared to the main spread channel (first width). This width difference creates appropriate capillary action that draws specimen from the main channel into the sub-channels, ensuring proper flow distribution to multiple diagnostic pathways.
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 efficient performance of various diagnostics using one specimen by ensuring smooth flow and automated item recognition, enhancing diagnostic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a vent channel may be formed between the end portion of the main spread channel and the first vent hole, and a width of the vent channel may be formed to be smaller than a width of the sub-spread channel
Data Source
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AI summary
The in vitro diagnostic strip according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise: a strip main body into which a specimen is injected; a main deployment channel, formed on the strip main body, into which the specimen injected into the strip main body spreads; and a plurality of sub-deployment channels, branching and extending from one side of the main deployment channel, into which the specimen spreads.