Mask Insert with Test Substrate for Non-Invasive Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current testing methods for pathogens and analytes face challenges such as invasive sample collection, limited scalability, high costs, pain associated with sample collection, risk of transmission, and inefficiencies in detecting asymptomatic individuals, particularly during pandemics like COVID-19, where there is a need for rapid and sensitive detection of analytes in air samples.
Innovation Solution
A mask insert comprising a test substrate surrounded by two outer layers that capture analytes from air samples, allowing for non-invasive collection and analysis, with features like integrated vertical or lateral flow assays and buffer dispensing devices to enhance sensitivity and ease of use, enabling efficient detection of pathogens and biomarkers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If invasive sample collection methods (nasal swab, blood draw) are used, then pathogen detection can be performed, but patient comfort deteriorates and pain is caused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (saliva) as a non-invasive medium to collect pathogen information. Instead of directly inserting swabs into nasal passages or taking blood draws, the system collects saliva samples that contain pathogen analytes, thereby maintaining detection reliability while eliminating physical discomfort and pain associated with invasive methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical invasive collection systems (swabs, needles) with a chemical/biological approach using saliva-based detection. The system uses fluorescently labeled antibodies that chemically bind to pathogen analytes in saliva, substituting mechanical tissue penetration with chemical interaction, thus maintaining detection capability while removing physical harm
2Reliability
If current testing methods are used, then pathogen detection is possible, but scalability is limited and testing costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service testing where individuals can perform pathogen detection at home using saliva collection kits and portable detection devices. The system includes self-contained fluorescent antibody reagents, collection tubes, and instruction materials that enable patients to test themselves without requiring healthcare professional intervention, thereby dramatically increasing scalability and reducing per-test costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the detection system that can be mass-produced and distributed widely. The fluorescent antibody-based detection kit is designed as a disposable, low-cost unit that can be manufactured at scale, replacing expensive centralized laboratory testing with affordable point-of-care tests that can be distributed globally
3Quantity of substance
If traditional sample collection devices are used, then samples can be obtained, but the collection process is complex and requires trained healthcare professionals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex sample collection and detection process into separate, simple modules: a saliva collection tube with fluorescent antibody reagent, a portable detection device, and instructional materials. Each component is independently simple and can be understood by laypeople, eliminating the need for trained healthcare professionals while maintaining effective sample collection and analysis capability
4Reliability
If invasive sample collection methods are used, then pathogen detection can be performed, but risk of transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses saliva as an intermediary medium that allows pathogen detection without direct contact between collectors and patients. The fluorescent antibody-based detection system analyzes pathogen analytes in saliva samples through chemical binding, eliminating the need for invasive swabs or blood draws that create transmission risks, thus maintaining detection reliability while reducing harmful transmission possibilities
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 mask insert provides a non-invasive, cost-effective, and scalable solution for detecting pathogens and analytes, reducing the discomfort of traditional sampling methods and improving the sensitivity and speed of testing, particularly suitable for large-scale monitoring during pandemics.
Implementation Method 1
A mask insert comprising a test substrate surrounded by two outer layers that capture analytes from air samples
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are compositions, devices and methods for detecting analytes in air samples obtained from a subject. Compositions can be included on inanimate surfaces such as masks to be worn by an individual having a test substrate for capturing analytes.