Integrated Fluid Module for Controlled Test-Fluid Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional test devices require complex procedures and skilled operators for accurate fluid delivery to test materials, often leading to user errors and inconsistent results due to the complexity of fluid application steps.
Innovation Solution
An integrated fluid delivery module with a frangible seal and controlled discharge mechanism, allowing for a controlled release of test fluid onto the test material through a reservoir and delivery vessel, facilitated by a fluid delivery actuator that varies the rate of release based on the size and shape of the opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional test devices use multiple separate components and complex procedures for fluid delivery, then the test functionality is comprehensive, but the ease of operation deteriorates and user errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (reservoir, delivery vessel, conduit, actuator) into a single integrated fluid delivery module. The reservoir body, delivery vessel, and conduit are merged into one unit that can be sterilized as a single component, eliminating the need for users to handle multiple separate parts and reducing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fluid delivery module serves multiple functions within a single device: it stores the test fluid in the reservoir, controls fluid flow through the conduit, delivers fluid to the test material via the delivery vessel, and allows user activation through the actuator. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate devices needed.
2Reliability
If conventional test devices require precise manual fluid application steps, then the measurement precision can be maintained, but the reliability deteriorates due to user errors
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated fluid delivery module enables self-service operation where the device itself controls the fluid delivery process. The actuator mechanism allows the user to simply activate the device, which then automatically controls the fluid flow through the conduit to the delivery vessel, eliminating the need for users to manually perform precise fluid application steps and reducing user errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is prepared in advance with the test fluid already contained in the sealed reservoir and the delivery pathway pre-sterilized. The frangible seal is pre-positioned to ensure controlled release. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for users to perform complex fluid handling steps during operation, improving reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional test devices use separate components that require sterilization of multiple parts, then the adaptability is maintained, but the manufacturing precision deteriorates due to assembly variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reservoir, delivery vessel, and conduit into a single integrated component that can be sterilized as one unit. This eliminates assembly variations between multiple separate parts and ensures consistent sterility and fluid tightness. The integrated design allows for precise manufacturing of the fluid pathway without the variability introduced by assembling multiple separate components.
4Ease of operation
If conventional test devices require skilled operators for accurate fluid delivery, then the measurement precision is maintained, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated fluid delivery module performs the complex fluid delivery function automatically once activated by the user. The device itself controls the fluid flow rate and delivery timing through its internal conduit and actuator mechanism, eliminating the need for skilled operators to manually control fluid delivery. This maintains measurement precision while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces the need for skilled manual mechanical fluid handling with an automated mechanical system. The actuator mechanism and internal conduit design automatically control fluid flow without requiring user skill, substituting complex manual operations with a self-regulating mechanical system that ensures precise fluid delivery.
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 convenient, accurate, and practical fluid delivery, ensuring consistent and controlled fluid application directly to the test material, reducing user errors and improving test reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The frangible seal is adapted to break upon application of pressure to release the test fluid
Implementation Method 2
using a set of first tools to heat seal the base component to the reservoir body, so as to create a fluid tight seal around the reservoir body
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated testing device and fluid module are disclosed, as well as a method of manufacture. Fluid module contains a reservoir containing a test fluid, and a control vessel. The reservoir discharges test fluid into the control vessel, which discharges the test fluid in a controlled way to a test component.