Lateral Flow Test Interlocking Cover for Automatic Timing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lateral flow tests face challenges such as user error in timing for reading results, potential for false positives and negatives due to incorrect timing, and the inability to prevent reuse of used tests, which increases costs and complicates mass testing scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A lateral flow test system with a cover that interlocks with a reader, exposing the sample pad only when the test is inserted, allowing automatic timing for reading and preventing reuse through mechanical locks, ensuring accurate and consistent results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate reader unit is used to read the test area, then subjectivity and judgment of the reading are removed, but users still need to correctly time from when a sample is deposited on the sample pad and start a timer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reader unit with the lateral flow test strip by integrating the reader into the test strip housing. This combination allows the reader to automatically detect when a sample is deposited on the sample pad and start timing automatically, eliminating the need for users to manually time the test while maintaining automated reading capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated reader system performs self-service by automatically detecting sample deposition and initiating the timing sequence without user intervention. The system monitors the test area and automatically starts the timing mechanism when it detects sample presence, thereby eliminating manual timing operations
2Ease of operation
If the sample pad is exposed from the beginning, then users can easily apply the sample, but the test could be confused with an unused test and potentially reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing instructions on the test strip packaging or in the user manual that guide users to break the seal before use. This pre-prepared instruction system ensures users know to break the seal for sample application while understanding that breaking the seal marks the test as used and prevents reuse
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual indicators such as color changes or distinct markings that appear when the seal is broken or when the test is used. These visual changes provide clear indication that the test has been activated and cannot be reused, while still allowing easy sample application after sealing
3Measurement precision
If digital tests are used to automatically read results, then subjectivity is eliminated and quantitative results are provided, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal system where a single integrated device can perform both manual and automated reading functions. The reader unit can operate in automated mode for precise digital readings or be used in simpler configurations for basic testing, allowing the system to serve multiple functions and user needs while controlling costs through a unified platform
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
This solution simplifies the testing process by eliminating user timing errors, reducing false results, and preventing the reuse of used tests, making the system more user-friendly and cost-effective for large-scale testing.
Implementation Method 1
The sample will flow down the strip to the conjugate pad
Implementation Method 2
the detector particles are removed from the pad and incorporated into the flowing sample. If the analyte is present, detector particles will bind to it
Data Source
AI summary
A lateral flow test includes a lateral flow assay strip having a sample pad arranged to receive a sample for testing, and a cover operable to move with respect to the strip between a first position in which the sample pad is covered by the cover and a second position in which the sample pad is exposed, and further includes an interlocking element operable to interlock with a lateral flow test reader. The interlocking element is positioned such that the interlocking element interlocking with a lateral flow test reader enables the sample pad to be exposed. Timing for reading the test can be set to start automatically on the test interlocking with a reader, since it is only then that the sample pad can be exposed and that a sample can therefore be deposited. This removes the need for a user to track time or ensure a timer is started.