Electrochemical Pathogen Detection Device for Rapid Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting viruses and bacterial pathogens are slow, limited to laboratory settings, and require extensive training, making them inadequate for rapid and widespread detection, especially during pandemics like COVID-19.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electrochemical sensing platform that includes a portable, user-friendly device for self-testing, clinical use, and mass testing, utilizing functionalized printed sensor electrodes and a smartphone app for data interpretation and reporting, enabling rapid detection of viruses and bacterial pathogens in various settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional laboratory-based detection methods are used, then detection accuracy is maintained, but detection speed is slow and device complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical laboratory equipment with electrochemical sensing technology that uses electrical signals to detect pathogens. The electrochemical sensor converts biological interactions into measurable electrical signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical incubators, microscopes, and other laboratory equipment, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining rapid detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from traditional optical or mechanical methods to electrochemical parameters. By measuring electrical current, voltage, or impedance changes that occur when pathogens interact with functionalized electrodes, the system achieves rapid detection without complex equipment, resolving the contradiction between detection speed and device complexity
2Ease of operation
If traditional laboratory-based detection methods are used, then detection accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to extensive training requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the device automatically performs sample preparation, incubation, detection, and result interpretation without requiring user expertise. The system includes built-in controls that guide users through the process and automatically analyze results, enabling non-experts to perform accurate pathogen detection without extensive training while maintaining detection precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that acts as a bridge between the user and the complex detection processes. The device includes automated sample processing chambers, temperature-controlled incubation systems, and algorithm-based result interpretation that mediate between simple user input and complex analytical requirements, making operation easy while preserving accuracy
3Productivity
If traditional laboratory-based detection methods are used, then detection capability is maintained, but productivity is low due to limited application venue availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal detection device that can be deployed in multiple settings including homes, clinics, and laboratories. The device performs multiple functions: sample processing, pathogen detection, result interpretation, and data reporting, all in one unit. This multi-functionality enables high detection throughput across diverse venues without requiring separate complex equipment for each setting, resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity
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
This solution allows for rapid, accurate, and widespread detection of viruses and bacterial pathogens, facilitating early treatment and infection control, while also enabling data collection for public health monitoring, thus addressing the limitations of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor device includes an electrochemical sensor configured to detect a presence of a virus or a bacterial pathogen in a test sample
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments disclose an apparatus including a test cartridge configured for inserting into a reader, a sample insertion component coupled to the test cartridge a test sample, a heater device coupled to the test cartridge configured to heat to a predetermined temperature the test sample, a sensor array coupled to the test cartridge consisting of at least one electrochemical sensor for sensing analytes in a sample, a reader configured to gather test related data from the sensor array coupled to the test cartridge, an analyzer coupled to the reader configured for determining test results of each sensor in the sensor array and comparing all the test results for confirmation of a valid test and coherent results, a MCU (Microcontroller Unit) to perform main control and processing functions, and orchestrates all the functionality for the Reader, and a BLE Radio RF link between the MCU and an external processing system.