Impedance Biosensor for Rapid Point-of-Care Viral Detection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional diagnostic methods for viral diseases, such as PCR and ELISA, are time-consuming, expensive, and require specialized laboratories and trained personnel, making them unsuitable for fast and cost-effective point-of-care diagnostics, especially for emerging viral outbreaks and on-site detection of pathogens in food or surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A biosensor using impedance spectroscopy with a conducting electrode layer and a probe layer for selective binding of target substances, allowing for rapid detection on a single frequency, reducing the need for complex equipment and trained personnel, and enabling point-of-care testing with lower material costs and faster results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional diagnostic methods (PCR, ELISA) are used, then reliable detection results are achieved, but the detection process becomes time-consuming, expensive, and requires specialized laboratories and trained personnel

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidcomplexity of procedure and equipment

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential detection function from complex laboratory systems by using impedance spectroscopy to directly measure target substances. The biosensor design removes the need for complex PCR or ELISA procedures by implementing a simplified electrode-based detection system that provides reliable results without specialized equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the detection parameter from complex biochemical reactions (PCR, ELISA) to electrical impedance measurements. By monitoring impedance changes at the electrode surface when target substances bind, the system achieves reliable detection with simpler, faster, and more cost-effective methodology

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If conventional diagnostic methods are used, then accurate detection is achieved, but the time required for detection increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces time-consuming mechanical and biochemical procedures (PCR cycling, ELISA washing steps) with rapid electrical impedance measurements. The biosensor provides real-time or near-real-time detection by measuring impedance changes as target substances bind to the electrode surface, dramatically reducing detection time while maintaining accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If conventional diagnostic methods are used, then reliable results are obtained, but the cost of detection increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidcost-effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs disposable biosensor electrodes with probe layers that can be manufactured at low cost using simple fabrication processes. The electrodes are designed for single-use to ensure reliability without the need for expensive, reusable laboratory equipment, making the detection system cost-effective for widespread deployment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

4Reliability

If conventional diagnostic methods are used, then accurate detection is achieved, but the requirement for specialized laboratories and trained personnel increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiduser-friendliness

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the biosensor system to be self-contained and easy to operate, requiring minimal training. The impedance measurement process is automated and provides direct results without needing specialized laboratory techniques, enabling non-experts to perform accurate detections in various settings including point-of-care and on-site applications

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 biosensor provides a fast, sensitive, and reliable method for detecting various target substances, including viruses and bacteria, facilitating prompt diagnosis and control of diseases, while being cost-effective and suitable for on-site use, including in non-medical settings.

Implementation Method 1

EIS measures the electrical impedance by imposing a small sinusoidal voltage at a certain frequency to an electrochemical cell and measuring the resulting current through the cell

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImpedance spectroscopy: Electrical Resistance