Microchip Platelet Test Parallel Channels Shear Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current platelet function tests are difficult to standardize, have low clinical usefulness, require invasive methods, and are dependent on von Willebrand factor (vWF) function, leading to issues with repeatability and increased test costs, especially when testing for anti-aspirin or anti-clopidogrel responsiveness.
Innovation Solution
A microchip-based platelet multi-function test apparatus that uses a parallel channel design with a stirrer to create a uniform high shear flow, allowing for simultaneous testing with different reagents and measuring closure time using an image sensor and light source, which activates vWF uniformly and reduces test time and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a long capillary tube is used to activate vWF at high shear rate, then platelet aggregation can be measured, but a large amount of blood is required and test repeatability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The long capillary tube is divided into multiple parallel capillary channels. This segmentation allows the blood sample to be distributed across multiple smaller channels, reducing the total blood volume required while maintaining the high shear rate conditions necessary for vWF activation and platelet aggregation measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single long capillary tube (one-dimensional approach) to multiple parallel capillary channels (multi-dimensional approach). This dimensional change enables simultaneous measurement across multiple channels, improving statistical reliability and reducing the blood sample volume needed per channel.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tests are performed for different platelet functions, then comprehensive platelet function evaluation is achieved, but test cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel capillary channel system is designed to perform multiple platelet function tests simultaneously. Different channels can be configured with various coatings and conditions to evaluate different platelet functions in a single integrated apparatus, eliminating the need for multiple separate tests and reducing both time and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple testing functions are merged into a single integrated system. The parallel capillary channels allow simultaneous execution of different platelet function assays, combining what would traditionally require separate tests into one unified measurement process.
3Reliability
If vWF is activated in a long capillary tube, then platelet aggregation occurs, but activation is non-uniform leading to poor repeatability
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the long capillary tube into multiple parallel channels creates more uniform flow conditions in each individual channel. The shorter length and consistent geometry of each capillary ensure more uniform shear rate distribution and vWF activation across all channels, improving measurement repeatability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each capillary channel is designed with optimized local dimensions and geometry to ensure uniform flow characteristics and vWF activation. The local quality of each channel is controlled to maintain consistent shear rates, ensuring reliable and repeatable platelet aggregation measurements.
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 approach enables a single test to evaluate multiple platelet functions with improved repeatability and accuracy, reducing the need for multiple tests and minimizing blood sample requirements.
Implementation Method 1
blood stirred at a high shear rate is injected to a parallel channel
Implementation Method 2
measuring a flowing distance of the blood flow using an image sensor and a light source installed in a rear end of the parallel channel
Data Source
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Figure 2
AI summary
There is provided a microchip-based platelet multi-function test apparatus. The apparatus includes a sample container configured to accommodate a blood sample therein, a stirrer that is installed inside the sample container and induces a shear flow in the blood sample, a parallel channel configured to divide and flow the blood stirred by the stirrer into a plurality of paths, a vacuum device that is connected to an end of each parallel channel, maintains constant pressure, allows the stirred blood to flow along the parallel channel, a light source that is installed in a rear side of the parallel channel and radiates light to the parallel channel, and an image sensor that receives light transmitted through the blood in the parallel channel, converts the light into an electrical signal, and measures a flowing distance of a blood flow. According to the invention, it is possible to test a plurality of platelet functions through a single test, and reduce a test time and a test cost.