Handheld Scanner for Point-of-Care Test Results
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current point-of-care test device readers are large, expensive, and consume substantial power, making them cumbersome and unsuitable for portable use at the bedside or in resource-limited settings.
Innovation Solution
A handheld diagnostic assay system comprising a test device with a test strip and a scanning device that includes a source of electromagnetic radiation, optics assembly, detector, and microprocessor, allowing for movable operation and generation of test result data based on indicia and test lines, facilitating portable and disposable point-of-care testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional point-of-care test device readers are used, then test reading function is achieved, but device size becomes large and portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the test system into two separate components: a disposable test device (swab, collection device, test strip) and a separate handheld reader. This segmentation allows the reader to be miniaturized and handheld while the test device can be optimized independently for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between reading capability and device size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the reading function into a separate handheld device from the traditional integrated system. By taking out the optical detection components and placing them in a portable reader that works with disposable test devices, the system achieves both accurate test reading and reduced device size for portability.
2Measurement precision
If traditional point-of-care test device readers are used, then test reading function is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into expensive reusable reader and inexpensive disposable test devices, the patent reduces overall manufacturing costs. The reader with complex optics is manufactured once and reused, while simple test devices can be mass-produced at low cost, resolving the contradiction between reading function and manufacturing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable test devices (swabs, collection devices, test strips) that are inexpensive to manufacture and discard after single use. This eliminates the need for expensive cleaning, sterilization, and maintenance of reusable components, significantly reducing manufacturing and operational costs while maintaining accurate test reading capability.
3Measurement precision
If traditional point-of-care test device readers are used, then test reading function is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld reader uses periodic action by employing LED light sources that emit light in pulses or brief intervals during the scanning process, rather than continuous illumination. This periodic operation significantly reduces power consumption while still achieving accurate test line detection, resolving the contradiction between reading function and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical scanning systems with optical detection using LEDs and photodetectors. This substitution eliminates the need for continuous power-intensive mechanical components, allowing the reader to be battery-powered and portable while maintaining accurate test reading capability.
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 system enables cost-effective, portable, and easy-to-use point-of-care testing, suitable for resource-limited settings, by providing a handheld and battery-powered solution for reading test results, improving accessibility and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a source of electromagnetic radiation; an optics assembly disposed to direct the electromagnetic radiation; a detector disposed to receive an emission or reflection from the test strip
Data Source
AI summary
A diagnostic assay system including a test device and a scanning device are described. In one implementation, the scanning device includes a source of electromagnetic radiation, an optics assembly, a detector, and a microprocessor disposed within a chassis. The test device and scanning device may be configured to be movable relative to each other during operation of the scanning device.