Lateral Flow Testing with Frangible-Seal Buffer Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lateral flow testing devices are prone to human error, require complex handling of fluids, and may lead to contamination, especially in at-home testing scenarios, with limited capacity for multiple tests and integration with readers.
Innovation Solution
A test device with a built-in buffer storage container and frangible seal, allowing for automatic mixing of the sample with buffer liquid, reducing spill risk and enabling simultaneous performance of multiple tests on horizontal test strips, integrated with a reader for accurate image capture and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling of buffer liquid is used, then flexibility in testing is maintained, but spill risk and contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer storage container is designed to automatically dispense buffer liquid onto the test strip when the sample collector is inserted, eliminating the need for manual handling and reducing spill risk while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
A frangible seal acts as an intermediary mechanism between the buffer storage container and the test strip, enabling automatic buffer transfer upon sample insertion while preventing premature contact and contamination
2Productivity
If multiple test strips are used simultaneously, then testing capacity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer storage container serves multiple functions: storing buffer liquid, automatically dispensing it to multiple test strips, and enabling simultaneous testing of multiple samples or multiple targets on a single sample, thereby increasing productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity
3Measurement precision
If vertical test strip configuration is used, then space is saved, but glare issues and reading accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The test strips are arranged horizontally rather than vertically, changing the spatial dimension of the testing area. This horizontal configuration eliminates glare issues by positioning the test lines in a plane optimal for optical detection by the reader, improving measurement precision while accepting a larger device footprint
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 solution provides quick, reliable, and user-friendly testing with reduced contamination risk, enabling simultaneous multiple tests and accurate result interpretation, while eliminating human error and glare issues.
Implementation Method 1
A frangible seal extends across the top of the buffer storage container
Implementation Method 2
Lateral flow tests are easy-to-use diagnostic devices
Data Source
AI summary
A test device includes a base holding at least one test strip in a plane. A buffer storage container is adjacent a first end of the test strip. A top of the buffer storage container is higher than the plane of the base. A frangible seal extends across the top of the buffer storage container. A transfer passage between the top of the buffer storage container and the first end of the test strip.