Integrated Analyte Testing and Fingerprint Verification Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for substance testing, such as membrane test strip devices, often require multiple steps, pose risks of disease exposure, and fail to securely retain fluid samples for confirmation or identify the test subject, leading to issues with contamination, mislabeling, and chain of custody concerns.
Innovation Solution
A device that integrates a sample receiving member, a sample retention member, and at least one membrane test strip to indicate analyte presence, along with a fingerprint acquisition pad for positive identification, allowing for simultaneous testing and secure sample retention within a single apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices and steps are used for testing and sample retention, then testing capability is provided, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to potential contamination and mislabeling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the membrane test strip device with a sample retention container into a single integrated device. The test strip is positioned within the container, allowing the fluid sample to simultaneously undergo testing and be retained for later confirmation in the same apparatus, eliminating the need for separate devices and reducing contamination risks
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions: the membrane test strip conducts initial analyte testing, while the sample retention container stores the fluid sample for confirmation testing and donor identification. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into one unified system
2Adaptability or versatility
If the fluid sample is not retained after initial testing, then device simplicity is maintained, but the ability to confirm results and identify the test subject is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The sample retention container is integrated into the device structure, combining the initial testing function with the sample retention function in one apparatus. This allows the device to adapt to both immediate testing needs and future confirmation requirements without requiring a completely separate retention system
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the test administrator handles the fluid sample manually, then testing operation is simple, but the risk of disease exposure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device serves as an intermediary system that receives the fluid sample through a collection device, processes it through the membrane test strip, and retains it in the container without requiring direct manual handling of the sample by the test administrator. This intermediary apparatus reduces disease exposure risk while maintaining operational simplicity
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 device enables efficient, reliable testing with secure sample retention and positive identification, reducing risks of contamination and mislabeling, while maintaining the simplicity of membrane test strip technology.
Implementation Method 1
at least one membrane test strip, in fluid communication with the sample receiving member, to indicate the presence or absence of at least one analyte in the fluid sample
Implementation Method 2
membrane test strip device... to indicate the presence or absence of at least one analyte
Implementation Method 3
an absorbent material, to absorb a fluid sample
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an apparatus for fluid sample collection and analyte testing, including a sample receiving member and at least one membrane test strip, and optionally a sample retention member, fingerprint acquisition pad, and/or fluid collector. It also provides a fluid collection apparatus having an absorbent material, compression element, and closure element, and optionally a lid that allows the apparatus to be used in conjunction with a fluid container. Also provided are methods of collecting, testing, and retaining a fluid sample and verifying the identity of one or more individuals associated with the sample, such as the test subject, test administrator, and/or witnesses.