Automated Lateral Flow Test Dispensing Apparatus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mass testing for SARS-COV-2 using lateral flow tests in non-clinical settings faces challenges due to inconsistency in sample preparation, dispensation, and result interpretation by non-specialist personnel, as well as environmental variations and contamination risks.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus comprising a support device for holding lateral flow test devices and a dispensing apparatus to accurately dispense a predetermined volume of liquid sample onto the test devices, reducing operator error and enhancing result reliability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual dispensing of liquid sample onto lateral flow test devices is used, then the simplicity and speed of mass testing is maintained, but the consistency and accuracy of sample volume dispensed deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespeed of mass testingVSAvoidconsistency of sample volume

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system allows operators to simply load samples into receptacles and insert test devices, while the automated dispensing mechanism handles the precise liquid transfer autonomously, eliminating the need for operators to manually control dispensing while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical dispensing operations with an automated liquid transfer mechanism that uses controlled fluid dynamics to dispense precise volumes, substituting human motor skills with an engineered system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If manual dispensing technique is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of test results deteriorates due to operator error

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of test procedureVSAvoidaccuracy of test results

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs the critical dispensing function automatically once samples are loaded, eliminating operator error while requiring minimal operator intervention, thus maintaining ease of operation while improving reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that monitor the dispensing process to ensure accurate liquid transfer, providing feedback control that prevents errors without complicating the operator's task

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of manufacture

If hand dispensing of multiple drops is used, then the simplicity of the test kit is maintained, but the precision of sample volume control deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of test kitVSAvoidprecision of sample volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual drop-counting with an automated liquid transfer mechanism that dispenses precise volumes based on controlled fluid dynamics, achieving precision without complicating the test kit design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary automated dispensing mechanism between the sample and test device that ensures precise volume control while keeping the overall system simple and integrated

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250044313A1Apparatus and process for performing lateral flow tests

Publication Date: 2025.02.06 RANDOX LAB LTD

AI summary

An apparatus for assaying one or more lateral flow test devices. The apparatus comprises at least one support device for supporting one or more lateral flow test devices in use and at least one sample receptacle configured to receive, in use, a respective liquid sample to be dispensed onto a corresponding lateral flow test device. The apparatus further comprises a dispensing apparatus configured to dispense a known volume of the received liquid sample from the sample receptacle onto the corresponding lateral flow test device supported by the support device.