Microbead Packing Platelet Testing Device Using Blockage Phenomenon
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current platelet function tests are difficult to standardize, have low clinical usefulness, require invasive methods, and are costly due to dependence on von Willebrand factor (vWF) and a two-stage testing process, with issues in repeatability and blood volume requirements.
Innovation Solution
A platelet testing device using blockage phenomenon with a microbead packing system in a microfluidic tube, where microbeads form voids that allow platelet attachment and aggregation, facilitating a reliable test with a small blood sample volume by controlling the size and activation of platelets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a long capillary is used to enable blood to flow at high shear rate for vWF activation, then platelet aggregation can be measured, but a large amount of blood is required and the test shows poor repeatability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the single long capillary into multiple parallel capillaries. This segmentation allows blood to flow through multiple shorter paths simultaneously, reducing the total blood volume required while maintaining the necessary shear rate conditions for vWF activation and platelet aggregation measurement, thereby improving test repeatability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a one-dimensional single capillary flow path to a multi-dimensional parallel capillary array. By arranging multiple capillaries in parallel, the system achieves the required total flow and shear rate conditions with reduced individual capillary lengths and reduced total blood volume, resolving the contradiction between reliability and sample volume.
2Productivity
If a micro-chip-based device with fine channel height is used, then test time and costs are reduced, but manufacturing errors cause non-uniform channel height and decrease test reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses multiple parallel capillaries with larger individual dimensions rather than a single fine channel. This segmentation approach maintains fast testing by running multiple flows simultaneously while improving reliability because the larger channel dimensions are less sensitive to manufacturing tolerances, ensuring more uniform flow conditions across tests.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention optimizes the channel dimensions locally by using larger cross-sectional areas in parallel capillaries rather than a single narrow channel. This local quality change makes the system more robust to manufacturing variations while maintaining the overall testing efficiency through parallel processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If platelets are activated by high shear rate in a long capillary, then vWF function can be tested, but the test cannot be performed for anti-platelet or anti-clopidogrel resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal testing platform using parallel capillaries that can perform multiple platelet function tests. By providing multiple parallel flow paths, the system can simultaneously or sequentially conduct vWF activation tests, anti-platelet drug resistance tests, and other platelet function assessments, all while using reduced blood sample volumes compared to traditional single-capillary methods.
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 device enhances test reliability and reduces blood sample requirements while maintaining consistent blockage phenomena, allowing for efficient platelet function testing with improved accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of microbeads contained in the packing pipe and arranged to be in close contact with each other so as to form voids between the microbeads
Implementation Method 2
an stirrer provided in the sample storage chamber to induce a shear flow in the blood sample
Implementation Method 3
a vacuum device connected to the ends of the parallel channels to enable the stirred blood to flow through the parallel channels while maintaining a constant pressure
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a platelet testing device using blockage phenomenon, comprising: a sample chamber containing blood sample; a microfluidic tube which is in fluid communication with the sample chamber and through which the blood sample flows; and a microbead packing arranged on a flow path of the blood sample of the microfluidic tube; wherein the microbead packing comprises: a packing pipe which constitutes a part of the flow path of the blood sample; and a plurality of microbeads contained in the packing pipe and arranged to be in close contact with each other so as to form voids between the microbeads, whereby function of the platelet is tested by blockage phenomenon of the voids due to the platelet in the blood sample which flows through the microfluidic tube from the sample chamber according to the present invention.