Fluid Testing Device with Merged Foam and Microfluidic Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid testing devices are not user-friendly and require additional steps for fluid collection and conveyance, making them unsuitable for quick diagnostics and roadside tests.
Innovation Solution
A compact testing device with a carrier, fluid receiving member, positioning member, and diagnostic device that allows for easy fluid collection and conveyance using capillary forces, eliminating the need for separate collection and conveyance means, and featuring a microfluidic plate with channels for fluid distribution and reagent interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate means for fluid collection and conveyance are used, then fluid testing can be performed, but device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fluid collection member (foam member) and conveyance means (microfluidic plate with channels) into a single integrated testing device. The foam member is positioned directly on the carrier and integrates with the microfluidic plate, eliminating the need for separate collection and conveyance equipment. This merging reduces device complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device performs multiple functions within a single unit: the foam member collects fluid, the microfluidic plate conveys and distributes fluid through channels, and the diagnostic device performs testing. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate collection and conveyance means, directly reducing device complexity while improving ease of operation.
2Productivity
If additional means for fluid collection and conveyance are required, then fluid can be processed, but testing time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic plate with its channel pattern is pre-configured on the carrier before testing. The channels are already in place to receive and convey fluid from the foam member directly to the diagnostic device, eliminating the need for additional conveyance steps during testing. This preliminary arrangement reduces testing time and improves productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the fluid collection foam member with the microfluidic plate that has pre-configured channels, the patent creates an integrated system where fluid flow paths are established in advance. This integration eliminates the need for separate collection and conveyance operations, reducing testing time and improving productivity.
3Ease of operation
If the diagnostic device is always in contact with the fluid receiving member, then testing is ready, but the fluid receiving member cannot be freely used for collection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a positioning member that can be moved along the carrier to position the diagnostic device. This dynamic positioning allows the system to transition between different operational states: the diagnostic device can be positioned away from the foam member for fluid collection, or moved into contact with the microfluidic plate for testing. This dynamic adjustment maintains ease of operation while providing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device is segmented into functionally independent components: the foam member for fluid collection, the microfluidic plate with channels for conveyance, and the diagnostic device for testing. The positioning member allows these segmented components to be independently positioned and activated, providing both ease of operation and adaptability.
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 fast, easy, and accurate fluid testing with minimal user intervention, suitable for point-of-care and roadside applications, providing quick results without the need for additional equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid supplying means of the diagnostic device are adapted to conveying the fluid on the basis of capillary forces
Implementation Method 2
The fluid receiving member may comprise a member which is adapted to absorbing fluid, for example a foam member
Data Source
AI summary
A device for testing a fluid including an elongated carrier; two foam members for absorbing the fluid, which are arranged at an end of the carrier; a positioning member having a sleeve which is slidably arranged on the carrier; and a diagnostic device, which is arranged in the positioning member having a sensor die adapted to detecting at least one property of the fluid and means for supplying the fluid to a sensor surface of the sensor die. After the fluid has been supplied to the foam members, the positioning member is moved towards the end of the carrier where the foam members are located. When the diagnostic device comes into contact with one of the foam members, the fluid is squeezed from the foam member and supplied to the sensor surface of the sensor die through the fluid supplying means of the diagnostic device.