Fluidic Channel Conductivity Sensing for Rapid Sample Volume Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnostic testing often requires long response times, expensive equipment, large sample sizes, and is limited by sensitivity and reproducibility, especially in point-of-care settings, with high direct and indirect costs due to separate systems for each test.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first portion with a fluid channel, actuator, introducer, and conductivity sensor, and a second portion with wells, allowing movable assembly for sample access and fluid movement, enabling rapid conductivity monitoring and volume determination using a conductivity sensor within the fluid channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional diagnostic testing methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but response time increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a sample handling portion with wells, a fluidic channel system for transport, and a detection portion with sensors. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently while working together to achieve rapid, accurate diagnostics at the point of care.
Solution Approach 2:
A fluidic channel system acts as an intermediary to transport sample material from the well to the detection sensors. This mediator enables the connection between sample introduction and analysis functions while allowing for controlled fluid movement and timing.
2Measurement precision
If traditional diagnostic testing methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into a single integrated device: sample storage wells, fluidic transport channels, conductivity sensors, and analysis capabilities are combined in one unit. This eliminates the need for separate laboratory equipment and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple diagnostic tests using the same basic platform. The fluidic channel system and sensor array can analyze different sample types and targets, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment for each test.
3Measurement precision
If traditional diagnostic testing methods are used, then analysis accuracy is improved, but sample size requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection sensors are positioned at specific locations within the fluidic channel where sample concentration is optimized for detection. The well and channel geometry are designed to concentrate the sample locally at the sensing zone, enabling accurate analysis with minimal sample volume.
4Loss of time
If point of use solutions are used, then response time is reduced, but measurement precision and reproducibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on sample presence, fluid flow status, and measurement results. This feedback mechanism allows for immediate detection and correction of any deviations, ensuring consistent and reproducible measurements while maintaining rapid response times at the point of care.
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
Facilitates rapid, cost-effective diagnostic testing with improved sensitivity and reproducibility, reducing the need for large sample sizes and expensive equipment, and enabling point-of-care analysis with minimal user training.
Implementation Method 1
monitoring a resistance of the conductivity sensor; moving a liquid within the fluidic channel; and monitoring a change in the resistance of the conductivity sensor
Data Source
AI summary
Devices that includes a first portion, the first portion including at least one fluid channel; a fluid actuator; an analysis sensor disposed within the fluid channel; a conductivity sensor disposed within the fluid channel; and an introducer; a second portion, the second portion comprising: at least one well, the well containing at least one material, wherein one of the first or second portion is moveable with respect to the other, wherein the introducer is configured to obtain at least a portion of the material from the at least one well and deliver it to the fluid channel, and wherein the fluid actuator is configured to move at least a portion of the material in the fluid channel.