ELISA Condom with Colorimetric STD Antigen Detection Bands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current condoms do not inform users about the presence of infectious agents associated with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) on either the wearer or their partner, failing to effectively prevent the transmission of such diseases.
Innovation Solution
A condom device equipped with a visually detectable enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) system, featuring localized bands of antibodies on its surface that change color in response to the presence of STD-associated antigens, allowing for immediate detection through a colorimetric reaction, with a control band ensuring device viability and a detection band indicating a positive result.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a condom is used to prevent pregnancy and STD transmission, then physical barrier protection is provided, but users remain unaware of the presence of infectious agents on either partner
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the condom barrier function with an ELISA detection system into a single integrated device. The condom substrate serves as both the physical barrier and the platform for antibody immobilization, allowing simultaneous protection and detection without requiring separate devices
Solution Approach 2:
The condom is designed to perform multiple functions: (1) physical barrier against pregnancy and STD transmission, (2) detection of STD antigens through immobilized antibodies, and (3) provision of lubrication. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by adding detection capability without requiring separate specialized devices
2Reliability
If an ELISA detection system is integrated into the condom, then STD detection capability is provided, but the device structure and reagent requirements become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The ELISA system is segmented into distinct functional zones on the condom surface: immobilized capture antibodies in specific regions, control bands with indiscriminate antibodies, and separate developing antibody application zones. This segmentation allows complex detection functionality to be organized into manageable, spatially-separated components
Solution Approach 2:
The capture antibodies are pre-immobilized on the condom substrate during manufacturing, and the control bands are pre-positioned. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly steps by the user and ensures proper reagent placement, reducing operational complexity while maintaining detection reliability
3Measurement precision
If multiple antibody bands are added to the condom surface, then detection capability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a lubricating gel or development solution as an intermediary carrier to deliver the developing antibodies to the detection zones. This intermediary mechanism allows flexible application and distribution of reagents without requiring precise pre-positioning of all components, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining detection sensitivity
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 users to visually determine the presence of STDs during or after use, providing immediate feedback on potential infections and promoting safer sexual practices by identifying the presence of antigens associated with diseases like Zika, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.
Implementation Method 1
a visually detectable (such as colorimetric) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) strategy
Implementation Method 2
Color change in the control band and detection band will indicate a positive result
Data Source
AI summary
A condom for detection of STDs, including an interior condom surface having a control band and a test band, and an exterior condom surface that also has a control band and test band. Each test band allows binding and subsequent detection of STD antigens. A separate developing antibody produces a color change if bound to the antigen/antibody conjugate. The developing antibody may be present on the condom or applied separately after use.