Automated Immunoassay Device Using Magnetic Particle Complex
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current immunoassay methods face challenges in efficiently extracting and discharging large magnetic particles of various shapes and performing multiple inspections quickly, as they often require manual handling and can only inspect one particle at a time, leading to complexity and reduced accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An immunoassay apparatus with a cartridge system that integrates tubes for T tip, reaction, washing, and signal measurement, utilizing a magnetic rod and T tip for automated extraction and washing of magnetic particles, and an image analyzer for simultaneous inspection of multiple particles based on shape analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling and single-particle inspection methods are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but inspection speed and accuracy are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple inspection functions into a single integrated system where the magnetic particle complex serves both as the detection target and as the inspection subject. The complex includes magnetic particles of different shapes (spheres, rods, plates) that can be simultaneously inspected using one inspection mechanism, eliminating the need for separate inspection steps for each particle type.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic particle complex is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as the detection target for immunoassay, as the carrier for magnetic particles of various shapes, and as the sample for inspection. This multi-functionality allows a single inspection mechanism to handle multiple particle types and perform multiple inspection tasks simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If large magnetic particles of various shapes are inspected one at a time, then inspection accuracy can be maintained, but inspection time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple inspection operations into a single simultaneous inspection process. By combining spheres, rods, and plates into one magnetic particle complex that can be inspected together, the system achieves parallel processing of multiple particle types, dramatically reducing total inspection time while maintaining accuracy through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from sequential inspection (one particle at a time) to parallel inspection (multiple particles simultaneously). By organizing particles of different shapes and sizes into a unified complex structure, the system enables multi-dimensional inspection where all particle types are processed concurrently rather than sequentially.
3Measurement precision
If complex extraction and discharge processes are used, then particle handling accuracy is improved, but operational simplicity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic particle complex is designed to be self-handling through its integrated structure. The complex automatically maintains particle integrity and can be easily manipulated as a single unit rather than individual particles. The embedding matrix and magnetic particle arrangement enable the complex to self-organize and self-maintain during extraction and discharge processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite material structures where magnetic particles of different shapes are embedded in a matrix material. This composite structure provides mechanical integrity while maintaining the distinct identities of individual particles. The composite design allows the complex to be handled as one unit while preserving particle-specific properties for accurate detection and discharge.
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 quick, efficient, and accurate extraction and discharge of magnetic particles, allowing for multiple simultaneous inspections, thereby simplifying the process and improving the accuracy of immune response results.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic rod and a T tip for automated extraction and washing of magnetic particles
Implementation Method 2
a heating member that generates heat by being disposed at a region in which the reaction tube is seated in the cartridge holder
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an immunoassay apparatus and a method thereof. The immunoassay apparatus including a cartridge 13 in which a tube for T tip 9, a reaction tube 11, a tube for washing 3, and a tube for signal measurement 5 are integrally coupled or individually configured; a T tip 7 and a magnetic rod 31 used for performing reaction and washing processes while moving large magnetic particles m, capture materials, signal materials, and analyte materials with magnetic force by entering successively a plurality of tubes 3 and 5; a cartridge holder 15 in which the cartridge 13 is seated; and a heating member 17 that generates heat by being disposed at a region in which the reaction tube 11 is seated in the cartridge holder 15; is configured in a state where each of the different shapes of magnetic particles is bound with materials.