Lateral Flow Sampling Mechanism for Precise Capillary Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lateral flow test devices face challenges in precisely controlling the volume of sample fluid applied to the test strip, leading to erroneous results due to either too much or too little fluid, especially when using a fixed capillary tube.
Innovation Solution
A capillary tube with a user-actuable mechanism that moves a test strip receiving region into contact with its end, allowing controlled sample fluid transfer from the tube to the strip, integrated within a housing with a button or lever mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed capillary tube is used to draw sample fluid, then the device structure is simplified, but the sample volume control precision deteriorates leading to erroneous results
Solution Approach 1:
The capillary tube is made movable relative to the test strip through a user-actuable mechanism, allowing dynamic adjustment of the tube's position. This enables precise control of sample transfer by bringing the tube into contact with the test strip only when the correct sample volume is achieved, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and volume control precision.
2Measurement precision
If a detached capillary tube is used, then the sample volume control is improved, but the device complexity increases requiring separate components
Solution Approach 1:
The movable capillary tube mechanism is integrated into the housing of the test device, merging the sample collection function with the device structure. This eliminates the need for completely separate detached components while maintaining precise sample volume control through the user-actuable mechanism.
3Measurement precision
If the user withdraws finger at the optimal point, then the sample volume is precise, but the ease of operation deteriorates as it is extremely difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates visual feedback through a window that allows the user to observe the sample filling the capillary tube. This feedback mechanism guides the user to withdraw at the optimal moment when the correct sample volume is achieved, making precise sampling easy to perform without requiring skill or experience.
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 precise control of sample volume, ensuring accurate test results by visually indicating fluid transfer completion, and simplifying the sampling process.
Implementation Method 1
a capillary tube having first and second ends, the first end configured to receive a fluid sample to be tested... whereby, in use, a sample fluid within said capillary tube is drawn from the capillary tube into said receiving region
Data Source
AI summary
A lateral flow test apparatus comprising a housing and a test strip located within the housing. The apparatus further comprises a capillary tube having first and second ends, the first end configured to receive a fluid sample to be tested, and the second opposed end, the housing and the test strip defining an air gap between said second end and a fluid sample receiving region of said test strip, and a user actuable mechanism configured to move said receiving region across said air gap and into contact with said second end, whereby, in use, a sample fluid within said capillary tube is drawn from the capillary tube into said receiving region.