Fluid Analysis Device with Passive Multi-Assay Loading and Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional fluid analysis devices, particularly for sperm analysis, lack desired tests, are expensive, and/or are complicated.
Innovation Solution
A fluid analysis device with a passive self-loading mechanism, including a fluid inlet, distribution channels, and assays, designed to uniformly distribute test fluid to isolated assays, using passive mechanisms like capillary action and static pressure, with features like vent holes to prevent bubble trapping and a clear bottom layer for result viewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional fluid analysis methods are used for sperm analysis, then the tests can be performed, but the devices are expensive and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple functional layers (inlet layer, distribution layer, assay layer, bottom layer) that can be manufactured separately and assembled, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining complete testing functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution layer serves multiple functions: it distributes fluid to multiple assays, provides structural support, and enables passive self-loading through capillary action, reducing the need for additional components
2Ease of operation
If passive self-loading mechanism is used to distribute test fluid, then the device operation is simplified, but uniform distribution to multiple assays must be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution layer has varying local properties with different channel geometries and capillary dimensions tailored to specific regions, enabling uniform fluid distribution across multiple assays through passive capillary action without external control
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a multi-layer vertical structure where fluid distribution occurs in the vertical dimension through aligned channels, allowing uniform distribution to multiple assays arranged in different layers and positions
3Productivity
If multiple fluid paths are used to reach assays, then fluid can be distributed to multiple locations, but bubble trapping may occur
Solution Approach 1:
Air vents are provided that extract air bubbles from the fluid paths and allow them to escape to the atmosphere, preventing bubble trapping in the assays while maintaining the multi-branch fluid distribution capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of trying to prevent air from entering the fluid paths, the device provides dedicated air vents that actively facilitate air escape, inverting the approach from prevention to active removal of harmful bubbles
4Reliability
If assays are fluidly isolated from each other, then cross-contamination is prevented, but fluid distribution to isolated assays must be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a multi-layer structure with distinct inlet, distribution, and assay layers that are fluidly isolated yet connected through vertically aligned channels, enabling independent assay operation while simplifying the overall fluid path configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution layer acts as an intermediary between the inlet layer and assay layer, receiving fluid from the inlet and distributing it to multiple isolated assays through controlled channels, managing fluid distribution without direct complex connections between assays
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 efficiently and uniformly distributes test fluid to multiple assays, preventing bubble trapping and allowing clear visualization of results, enhancing the analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
receive and distribute the test fluid from the fluid inlet opening using a passive self-loading mechanism
Implementation Method 2
receive and distribute the test fluid from the fluid inlet opening using a passive self-loading mechanism
Implementation Method 3
The inlet layer can include a plurality of vent holes defined therein in fluid communication with the one or more fluid distribution channels to allow air flow through the plurality of vent holes (to prevent bubble trapping
Implementation Method 4
The one or more distribution layers can include and/or are formed from a channel layer material that is configured to be wetted by the test fluid. For example, the channel layer material can be hydrophilic (e.g., for a water based fluid, e.g., semen)
Implementation Method 5
the channel layer material can be hydrophilic (e.g., for a water based fluid, e.g., semen)
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid analysis device can include a fluid inlet opening configured to receive a test fluid, and one or more fluid distribution channels in fluid communication with the fluid inlet opening and configured to receive and distribute the test fluid from the fluid inlet opening using a passive self-loading mechanism. The device can include a plurality of assays fluidly isolated from each other and configured to receive the test fluid from the one or more fluid distribution channels.