Mechanically Powered Drive Means for Handheld Diagnostic Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diagnostic methods require large, expensive equipment and trained technicians, leading to delays in obtaining diagnostic test results at the point of care or even at home.
Innovation Solution
A handheld, self-contained device that uses mechanically powered drive means to transfer liquid samples between zones, eliminating the need for external power and allowing for minimal user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrically driven motors are used in the device, then the device can be automated and easier to operate, but the device becomes larger, more expensive, and requires external power supply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrically driven motors with a mechanically powered drive means that uses a spring-loaded piston system. The spring mechanism provides the driving force to transfer the liquid sample between zones through mechanical action, eliminating the need for electric motors, power supplies, and complex electromechanical control systems. This substitution maintains automated sample transfer functionality while dramatically simplifying the device structure and eliminating external power requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If large bench-mounted equipment is used, then the device can perform complex analysis functions, but the device cannot be used at point of care or home
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the analysis device into discrete, integrated zones (sample introduction zone, reaction zone, detection zone) that are compactly arranged within a single handheld unit. Each zone performs a specific function, and the mechanical drive means efficiently transfers samples between these segmented zones. This segmentation allows complex multi-step analysis functionality to be packed into a small, portable form factor that can be used at point of care or home settings.
3Productivity
If multiple control features are provided, then the device can perform multiple analysis steps, but the device requires trained technicians to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated mechanical drive system. The spring-loaded piston mechanism automatically sequences the transfer of liquid samples through multiple zones, performing mixing, reaction, and detection steps in a predetermined sequence. This merging of multiple control features into one simple mechanical system eliminates the need for trained technicians, as users only need to load the sample and the device automatically completes all analysis steps.
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
Enables rapid, true point-of-care diagnosis without external power, reducing costs and complexity, and allowing for single-use, disposable operation.
Implementation Method 1
The PCB includes a heater configured to heat the liquid in the reaction chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A medical device comprising a multilayer printed circuit board (PCB) comprising a heating element on an inner layer of the PCB; a single cell electrical power source to power the heating element; and a chamber adapted to contain a liquid, at least part of said chamber being defined by a thermally conductive material configured to provide a thermal transfer interface between the chamber and the PCB.