Fluid Analysis Cartridge Two-Step Sample Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample analyzers require extensive processing and operator intervention, increasing costs and time for chemical and biological analysis, and often produce raw data that needs further interpretation by trained personnel.
Innovation Solution
A disposable fluidic cartridge with a sample introduction port, capillary action for fluid sampling, and a valve system that allows for automated fluid handling and processing, enabling self-contained analysis of biological fluids like blood without specialized training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sample analyzers are used with extensive processing and operator intervention, then analysis accuracy can be maintained, but cost and time requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge performs sample preparation actions (dilution, mixing, separation) in advance within the cartridge structure itself, using pre-positioned reagents and pre-designed fluidic pathways. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming manual processing steps after sample collection, thereby reducing analysis time while maintaining accuracy through consistent, pre-programmed processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge is designed to perform sample processing automatically without operator intervention. The fluidic system self-regulates flow rates, mixing ratios, and separation processes through capillary action and pressure differentials, eliminating the need for trained personnel to perform manual processing steps. This self-service capability reduces both time and operational complexity while maintaining analysis precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sample analyzers require operator intervention during analysis, then complex processing can be performed, but cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge automatically performs complex fluid handling operations including sample dilution, reagent mixing, and phase separation without operator intervention. The system uses integrated pumps, valves, and mixing chambers that self-regulate through pressure differentials and capillary forces, providing versatile processing capability while eliminating the need for trained personnel to operate complex equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge replaces manual mechanical operations with automated fluidic systems. Instead of requiring operators to manually mix samples, transfer fluids, or adjust parameters, the system uses microfluidic channels, electrically-controlled valves, and computerized pump systems to automate all mechanical processing steps, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining processing versatility.
3Ease of operation
If sample analyzers provide raw analysis data, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but further calculations and interpretation by trained personnel are required
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge system automatically performs data processing, calculations, and interpretation functions. Integrated sensors and onboard processors analyze the raw measurement data and automatically generate clinically-interpreted results, eliminating the need for trained personnel to perform manual calculations or interpretation. This self-service data processing maintains operational simplicity while eliminating time-consuming interpretation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge merges the measurement function with data processing and interpretation functions into a single integrated system. Instead of separating the analytical measurement from the data interpretation (which would require multiple operators or steps), the system combines these functions in one automated cartridge, thereby maintaining simple operation while eliminating the time required for separate data interpretation steps.
4Measurement precision
If extensive sample processing is performed manually, then accurate analysis results can be obtained, but the need for trained personnel increases cost
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge performs all sample processing operations automatically without requiring trained personnel. The system self-regulates critical parameters such as mixing ratios, flow rates, and separation conditions through integrated sensors and automated control systems, thereby maintaining analysis accuracy while eliminating the need for specialized operator training and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge replaces manual mechanical processing operations with automated microfluidic systems. Precise fluid handling, mixing, and separation operations that previously required trained personnel to perform manually are now executed by computer-controlled pumps, valves, and mixing chambers, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing the need for trained personnel and associated costs.
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 cartridge streamlines sample analysis by automating fluid handling and processing, reducing the need for extensive operator intervention and specialized training, while providing accurate results directly from the cartridge.
Implementation Method 1
at least part of the inner surface is hydrophilic such that the sample introduction port and the sample collection reservoir may be configured to draw a fluid sample through the fluid sample introduction port and into the sample collection reservoir by capillary action
Implementation Method 2
a gas permeable membrane situated between the vacuum port and the sample loading channel
Data Source
AI summary
A two-step method for loading a fluid sample into a disposable fluid analysis cartridge is described. First, capillary action may be used to initially draw a sample through a sample introduction port and into a sample collection reservoir provided in the fluid analysis cartridge. Once the fluid sample has been drawn into the sample collection reservoir by capillary action, a negative pressure may be applied to the cartridge to pull the sample from the sample collection reservoir and into a sample loading channel. A valve may be disposed between the sample collection reservoir and the sample loading channel to prevent backflow of sample into the sample collection reservoir and to retain sample in the sample loading channel.