Electrochemical Airborne Pathogen Detection with Collector Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for detecting airborne pathogens are laboratory-based and lack real-time detection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a pathogen collector with a surface area for engaging pathogens, an electrochemical sensor for detection, and a pump for generating an air flow to move pathogens onto the collector, where an electrochemical reaction generates an electronic signal indicative of pathogen presence or concentration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory-based methods are used for pathogen detection, then detection accuracy is maintained, but real-time detection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional laboratory-based mechanical sampling and analysis systems with a portable electrochemical sensor system that performs direct detection in the ambient environment, enabling real-time monitoring without requiring laboratory infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrochemical sensor as an intermediary detection mechanism that can directly interact with airborne pathogens in the environment, bridging the gap between environmental sampling and laboratory analysis to enable real-time detection
2Reliability
If direct sample collection is required for pathogen detection, then detection reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pathogen collector that passively accumulates airborne pathogens on its surface area through natural engagement mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex active sampling systems while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential detection function from complex laboratory systems, isolating the core capability of pathogen detection into a simplified electrochemical sensor that can operate independently without requiring elaborate sample collection infrastructure
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 real-time detection of airborne pathogens, allowing for immediate decision-making and potential alarm or response actions based on pathogen concentration.
Implementation Method 1
an electrochemical sensor for electrochemically detecting pathogens accumulated on the surface area of the pathogen collector, the electrochemical sensor comprising an electrode and a reactive substance selected to electrochemically react with the pathogens
Implementation Method 2
a pump for generating an air flow; wherein the system is configured such that the generated air flow moves pathogens in ambient air towards and/or along the surface area of the pathogen collector
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting airborne pathogens includes a pathogen collector having a surface area for engaging with and collecting pathogens; an electrochemical sensor for detecting pathogens on the pathogen collector, the electrochemical sensor comprising an electrode and a reactive substance selected to electrochemically react with the pathogens; and an air-flow generating pump. The system is configured such that the generated air flow moves pathogens in ambient air towards and/or along the surface area of the pathogen collector such that pathogens engage and accumulate on its surface area. The system is further configured such that the reactive substance of the electrochemical sensor electrochemically reacts with the accumulated pathogens. In response to the electrochemical reaction, the electrochemical sensor's electrode detects an electronic signal that indicates the presence of the pathogens.