Fluid Sample Focusing Rail for Accurate POCT Optical Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Point-of-care testing (POCT) systems face challenges in producing accurate and reliable test results due to variations introduced by disposable elements, requiring frequent focusing adjustments and often incorporating complex and expensive stepper or actuator systems for optical measurements.
Innovation Solution
A fluid analysis system that includes a disposable cartridge with integrated reagent compartments and a focusing mechanism to adjust the position of the fluid sample relative to the analyzer, allowing for precise optical imaging without physical contact, and a controller to manage reagent flow and mixing, ensuring consistent analysis results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If disposable elements are used for capturing and retaining samples, then convenience and rapid test results are achieved, but imprecision and variation are introduced into the measurement system
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts optical parameters (focusing position, illumination intensity) to compensate for variations in disposable elements. The controller modifies these parameters based on detected variations, maintaining measurement precision despite using different disposable units for each test.
2Measurement precision
If highly accurate stepper or actuator systems are used for focusing, then optical measurement accuracy is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The focusing mechanism transitions from static pre-adjusted positions to dynamic real-time adjustment. The system continuously adapts the focusing position based on detected variations in disposable elements, enabling accurate measurements without requiring highly complex mechanical stepper or actuator systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment of focusing parameters based on automatic detection of disposable element variations. The controller autonomously modifies optical parameters without requiring complex external control mechanisms, reducing system complexity while maintaining precision.
3Measurement precision
If focusing adjustments are made for each disposable element, then optical measurement accuracy is maintained, but system complexity and operation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic feedback control where the detector measures variations in disposable elements and the controller adjusts focusing parameters accordingly. This closed-loop approach maintains optimal signal-to-noise ratio while automating the focusing process, reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of disposable element characteristics before the main measurement. By detecting variations upfront and pre-adjusting optical parameters, the system avoids complex real-time adjustments during measurement, simplifying the overall control mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid analysis system may include a stage configured to receive a sample holder including a fluid sample to be analyzed, The fluid analysis system may also include a fluid analyzer configured to monitor at least one characteristic of the fluid sample to be analyzed; and an inclined rail; wherein the stage is configured to move along the inclined rail to cause the sample holder to move with a first component of motion along an analysts axis of the fluid analyzer and simultaneously with a second component of motion orthogonal to the analysis axis of the fluid analyzer, wherein the first component of motion affects a focus of the fluid analyzer relative to at least one constituent of the fluid sample to be analyzed.