Lateral Flow Detection Device with Gas-Permeable Symbol Layer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing detection devices using the lateral flow method face challenges in clearly displaying positive and negative results due to material transparency issues and complex production processes, affecting the accuracy and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A detection device comprising a sample detection layer with a reagent that reacts with an analyte and a symbol display layer treated with an indicator that changes color upon gas contact, separated by a gas channel, allowing for clear visual representation of results through a '+' or '-' symbol.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a test piece with color indication line is disposed under the detecting pad to show results, then the visual display of positive and negative results is improved, but the material transparency causes the indication line to be visible before detection, affecting product appearance

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual displayVSAvoidappearance quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into separate functional layers: a detecting pad layer for detection and a symbol display layer for visual output. The symbol display layer contains a gas permeable membrane separated from the detecting pad, allowing the indication line to be hidden during storage and only visible after detection when gas transmission occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The symbol display layer is prepared in advance with a colorless or light-colored gas permeable membrane and indication line, but the actual color change is triggered only when needed during detection through gas transmission from the detecting pad, ensuring the indication line remains invisible before use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of manufacture

If water-absorbing strips with color-changing ink are used to create indication lines, then the detection results can be displayed visually, but the production process becomes complex with many assembly steps

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevisual displayVSAvoidproduction process
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The indicating substance is integrated directly into the gas permeable membrane of the symbol display layer, combining the functions of gas transmission and visual indication into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate water-absorbing strips and complex assembly processes required in prior art.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The gas permeable membrane serves multiple functions: it allows gas transmission from the detecting pad, serves as a substrate for the indication line, and provides the visual display medium. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall device structure and manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of information

If the detecting pad material is made transparent to show the indication line, then the detection results are visible, but the transparency affects the appearance and may cause false readings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection result visibilityVSAvoidappearance quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A gas permeable membrane serves as an intermediary between the detecting pad and the symbol display. This membrane is colorless or light-colored and allows gas transmission while maintaining visual clarity, enabling the indication line to be visible only when activated by gas transmission during detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 provides stable and clear detection results, making it easier for operators to interpret, thus expanding its usability across a wider range of users.

Implementation Method 1

the symbol display layer is treated with an indicator; after the indicator contacts with a gas which can change the color of the indicator, the indicator changes from a first color to a second color

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectColor change upon gas contact: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentUS11604189B2Detection device capable of visual test results
Publication Date: 2023.03.14 LEADWAY HK
  • US11604189B2 patent drawing
  • US11604189B2 patent drawing
  • US11604189B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A detection device (10), comprising a sample detection layer (1) provided thereon with a detection reagent reacted with an analyte and a result display region (18), wherein the device further comprises a symbol display layer (2) on which an indicator (21) is processed; after the indicator contacts with a gas which can change the color of the indicator, the indicator changes from a first color to a second color.