Fluorescence Reader with UV-C LED and Optical Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coronavirus test methods, particularly those using fluorescence signals, require specialized equipment and training, making it difficult for non-professionals to obtain accurate and consistent on-site readings, which is a barrier for early diagnosis, especially in non-laboratory settings like homes or workplaces.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that allows direct qualitative reading of fluorescence signals using a UV-C LED light source, a semi-closed chamber, and user-friendly controls, enabling users to operate without medical assistance, with features like spectral filtration and anchor points to reduce variability and ensure safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluorescent immunoassay is used for coronavirus testing, then sensitivity is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to requiring specialized readers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable test strips with integrated fluorescent markers that combine the assay reagents and fluorescent signal generation in a single-use format. This eliminates the need for complex reusable equipment while maintaining fluorescent detection sensitivity, as each strip is self-contained and discarded after one use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex laboratory reader functionality into a simplified handheld device that only needs to provide UV excitation and basic optical filtering. By separating the complex assay chemistry into disposable strips and keeping only the essential light source and detector in the handheld reader, the system achieves high sensitivity without requiring complex equipment
2Measurement precision
If laboratory-grade fluorescence readers are used, then reading accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring professional training
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip is designed as a self-contained unit that automatically performs sample application, reagent mixing, and signal generation. The user simply applies the sample and waits for results, with no manual intervention needed for the complex assay steps, making it as easy to use as a pregnancy test while maintaining fluorescent detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
All complex assay reagents, fluorescent markers, and reaction conditions are pre-configured in the test strip during manufacturing. The user receives a ready-to-use strip that requires no preparation or training, eliminating the need for professional knowledge while ensuring consistent, accurate results through factory-optimized assay conditions
3Ease of operation
If Colloidal Gold method is used, then ease of operation is improved for non-professionals, but detection sensitivity deteriorates compared to fluorescent method
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ease of use of colloidal gold lateral flow with the sensitivity of fluorescent detection by combining fluorescent markers into the lateral flow strip format. This integration allows non-professionals to perform simple drop-based testing while achieving fluorescent-level sensitivity through the fluorescently-labeled antibodies that generate detectable signals at the test line
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 economic, easy-to-use, and accurate on-site fluorescence readings, making rapid testing feasible in non-laboratory settings, enhancing sensitivity and reducing the need for professional guidance, thereby improving early diagnosis capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a light source for generate an excitation light for exciting the fluorescent source of the assay to generate a fluorescent light
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention teaches an apparatus for consistent and accurate on-site readings of fluorescence signals of coronavirus test result, with which a user directly reads a fluorescent light qualitatively instead of using electronic sensors. The fluorescent light is excited from a fluorescent source in a site of interest in a target assay. The device comprises a light source for generating an excitation light for exciting the fluorescent source of the target assay to generate a fluorescent light, a component for accurately transmitting the excitation light and the fluorescent light with less noise or reflection, a component for consistent detecting of the fluorescent source by bare eyes with minimal health risks, and a user control system that requires minimal training.