Electronic Analyte Assaying Device with Electro-Optical Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-step analyte detection devices require users to interpret visual signals, which can lead to mistakes in determining pregnancy results, as they need to differentiate between single and double colored lines.
Innovation Solution
A single-step device with an electro-optical system that monitors the test results and displays 'Yes+' for pregnancy or 'No-' for non-pregnancy on an LCD, eliminating the need for user interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users interpret visual signals (single/double colored lines) to determine pregnancy results, then the device structure remains simple, but user error increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual interpretation method with an automated electro-optical detection system. The system uses light sources, photodetectors, and electronic processing to automatically analyze the test strip results, eliminating the need for users to manually interpret colored lines. This substitution of mechanical/manual operations with automated electronic systems resolves the contradiction by improving reliability through automated detection while accepting increased device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary electro-optical detection system between the test strip and the user. This intermediary system includes light sources, photodetectors, and electronic processing components that mediate the detection process, converting the visual information on the test strip into electronic signals for automated analysis. This intermediary layer improves reliability by removing human interpretation errors while managing the complexity through modular system design.
2Reliability
If an electro-optical system with multiple components (light sources, photodetectors, processing circuits) is added to automatically interpret results, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the electro-optical system to perform multiple functions: light emission, light detection, signal processing, and result determination all within a single integrated system. The photodetectors serve both as detection elements and as part of the signal processing chain, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function and thereby managing complexity while maintaining improved reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functional components into an integrated electro-optical detection system. The light sources, photodetectors, signal processing circuits, and control logic are combined into a unified system that automatically performs the complete detection and interpretation process. This merging reduces the operational complexity compared to having separate manual steps while achieving high reliability through automated multi-functional operation.
3Measurement precision
If visual signals require user differentiation between single and double colored lines, then manufacturing remains simple, but measurement precision of result interpretation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the imprecise manual visual differentiation process with an automated electro-optical measurement system. The system uses photodetectors to precisely measure light absorption at specific wavelengths, converting the qualitative visual assessment into quantitative electronic measurements. This substitution dramatically improves measurement precision by eliminating human subjectivity and variability in interpreting single versus double colored lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameters from qualitative visual assessment to quantitative optical density measurements. By measuring light absorption at specific wavelengths and comparing signal intensities, the system transforms the interpretation task into a precise parameter-based analysis. This parameter change enables high-precision determination of pregnancy results through electronic comparison of measured values against predetermined thresholds.
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 device provides accurate and straightforward results, reducing user error by electronically interpreting the test outcomes and displaying them in a clear, readable format.
Implementation Method 1
an electro-optical system means for detecting the presence of an analyte
Data Source
AI summary
An electronically processed single-step test device for detecting the presence of a preselected analyte in a fluid. The device includes a hollow rectangular outer casing, disposed within co-joined upper and lower sections of the casing are assay material, an electronic processing system, and a display. The display is observable through a viewing window. The assay material is a sorptive material including a fluid sample application region in the form of a sample wick in fluid communication with a test strip. The test strip includes an analyte capture region adjacent to a light shield. The system includes lights which are alternately pulsed or energized over predetermined periods of time to determine if fluid test results show a marker or markers in the capture region indicative of the presence of a preselected analyte in the fluid. If so, Yes+ is displayed on the display otherwise, No− is displayed on the display.