Ferrofluidic Assay for Parasite Oocyst Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting parasites and their oocysts in fecal samples are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and require specialized expertise, limiting their effectiveness in efficiently analyzing large samples and providing rapid diagnostic tools for coccidiosis in poultry.

Innovation Solution

An automated diagnostic assay system using a ferrofluidic system that includes a cartridge with imaging and processing means, where samples are mixed with ferrofluid and sodium hydroxide, and then processed through electromagnetic fields to separate and visualize oocysts, allowing for accurate counting and characterization of parasites.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual microscopy methods are used for parasite detection, then specialized expertise can identify oocysts, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidsample analysis speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual microscopy with an automated system that uses magnetic fields and computer vision. The automated image analysis system captures images of oocysts and uses algorithms to identify and count them, eliminating the need for manual microscopy while maintaining detection accuracy and significantly increasing throughput.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces ferrofluid as an intermediary substance that binds to oocysts and enables their detection through magnetic field manipulation. This intermediary allows the automated system to detect and enumerate oocysts without requiring specialized expertise for manual identification, thus improving both accuracy and productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If automated imaging systems are implemented, then labor requirements are reduced, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample processing capacityVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a multi-functional integrated system where a single device performs sample preparation, magnetic separation, imaging, and automated analysis. The system can process multiple sample types (fecal samples, water, food) and detect various parasites, reducing overall system complexity despite the advanced capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex manual procedures with automated magnetic field-based separation and computer vision-based analysis. This substitution simplifies the operational complexity by eliminating manual steps while maintaining high processing capacity through standardized automated protocols.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If traditional detection methods are used, then equipment requirements are minimal, but the subjectivity of manual counting reduces reliability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection consistencyVSAvoidinstrumentation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces subjective manual counting with objective computer vision algorithms that automatically identify and count oocysts in captured images. This substitution eliminates human subjectivity and variability, ensuring consistent and reliable detection results across different samples and operators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses ferrofluid as a magnetic intermediary that enhances oocyst visibility and enables consistent detection. The magnetic properties of ferrofluid provide a reliable physical basis for separation and detection, improving detection consistency while requiring only moderate instrumentation complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 system enables rapid, accurate detection and enumeration of oocysts, reducing manual labor and subjectivity, and can process multiple samples efficiently, providing a scalable solution for monitoring coccidiosis in poultry flocks.

Implementation Method 1

an automated diagnostic assay system using a ferrofluidic system

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFerrofluid: Ferrofluid

Implementation Method 2

processed through electromagnetic fields to separate and visualize oocysts

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic fields: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20240069020A1Ferrofluid-based assay methods, and systems for parasite eggs or oocysts detection

Publication Date: 2024.02.29 ANCERA LLC

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to ferrofluid-based assay methods, systems and device for detecting one or more parasite oocyst or egg, and more specifically, to detecting parasite oocysts or eggs in fecal matter of livestock, so as to determine parasitic infections within such livestock. Such embodiments are configured to help in the ability to maintain healthy livestock for human consumption.