LFA Strip Reader UVC Sterilization Trigger for Sample Purity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing testing systems lack adequate sterilization features and controls, leading to the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses, and potential contamination of future test samples, rendering test results invalid.
Innovation Solution
A UVC light source is triggered by an imaging device capturing a visual feature on a lateral flow assay strip, activating sterilization cycles and ensuring thorough cleaning of test surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sterilization features are added to testing systems, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sterilization system combines multiple functions into a single integrated unit: the UVC light source serves both as a sterilization mechanism and as a visual trigger indicator, the imaging device captures both the LFA strip results and the sterilization trigger visual feature, and the processor coordinates both the reading and sterilization operations. This merging approach improves reliability by ensuring sterilization is performed while avoiding excessive complexity through functional integration rather than separate independent systems.
2Ease of operation
If automated sterilization triggering is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service sterilization automation where the imaging device automatically detects the visual feature on the LFA strip, the processor automatically triggers the sterilization sequence, and the UVC light source automatically activates without requiring manual user intervention. The system serves itself by using the test strip's own visual features as the trigger mechanism, eliminating the need for separate sensors or complex control interfaces while improving ease of operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If UVC light sources are integrated into the testing device, then object-affected harmful factors are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the sterilization function as a distinct UVC light source component that operates independently from the main testing function. The UVC light source is positioned to illuminate and sterilize the sample carrier and surrounding area, separating the sterilization mechanism from the LFA reading mechanism. This extraction allows the sterilization system to be added without fundamentally redesigning the core testing functionality, thereby reducing pathogen spread while managing complexity through functional separation.
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 system effectively sterilizes testing equipment, preventing the spread of pathogens and ensuring accurate, standardized test results by integrating a UVC light source activated by a visual feature on the assay strip.
Implementation Method 1
A sterilization system includes a sterilization light source in communication with the imaging device and configured to emit light to sterilize a sample carrier and surrounding area.
Data Source
AI summary
A system including a processor and memory coupled to the processor. The system also includes a lateral flow assay (“LFA”) strip reader coupled to the processor for transmitting an LFA strip image to the processor. The processor initiates a sterilization process when the LFA strip image includes a visual feature indicating a sterilization trigger.