Mobile Device Pathogen Detection via Infrared Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pathogen detection methods, particularly for COVID-19, are slow, invasive, and require specialized equipment and personnel, limiting their effectiveness in rapid mass testing and increasing the risk of transmission due to logistical and administrative challenges.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device-based system that uses a camera, chemically treated transparent test sheets, and infrared light to capture and analyze digital images of saliva samples, applying multivariate statistical analysis and surface chemistry to detect pathogens without the need for expensive equipment or trained personnel, enabling rapid, non-invasive, and cost-effective testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If PCR-based methods are used for pathogen detection, then measurement precision is improved, but testing speed and productivity deteriorate due to laborious sample processing and time-consuming procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential detection function from the complex PCR process, using a simplified test strip that directly detects pathogen presence in saliva without requiring RNA extraction, amplification, or specialized laboratory equipment. This extraction of the core detection capability enables rapid results while maintaining adequate precision for public health screening.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital imaging to create a visual copy of the test strip results that can be analyzed by software algorithms. The mobile device camera captures the test strip appearance, and image processing algorithms automatically interpret the results, replacing the need for skilled technicians to perform complex PCR procedures while maintaining detection accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If centralized laboratories with specialized equipment are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables individuals to perform their own pathogen testing at home using a simple test strip and mobile device. The system is designed to be self-contained and user-friendly, requiring no specialized equipment, trained personnel, or laboratory infrastructure. Users simply collect saliva, apply it to the test strip, and obtain results automatically through the mobile device application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable test strips that are inexpensive to manufacture and use. Each test strip is a single-use, disposable component that eliminates the need for expensive, complex equipment requiring maintenance, calibration, and specialized facilities. The disposable nature ensures consistency and reliability without requiring centralized laboratory infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If invasive sampling methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation and user comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the sample type parameter from invasive nasopharyngeal swabs to non-invasive saliva collection. Saliva is a readily available bodily fluid that users can collect themselves without discomfort or risk of injury. The test strip chemistry is specifically designed to detect pathogens in saliva, maintaining adequate detection precision while dramatically improving ease of operation and user acceptance for mass testing.
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 solution provides rapid, accurate, and inexpensive pathogen detection, allowing individuals to control their medical information and facilitating efficient mass testing, reducing the spread of pathogens by delivering results in minutes and eliminating the need for centralized laboratories and invasive sampling.
Implementation Method 1
one or more infrared light emitting device (IR-LED) selectively transmitting infrared light against said test sheet
Implementation Method 2
an infrared sensitive lens optically associated with the camera
Implementation Method 3
a chemically treated functionalized transparent test sheet, wherein said test sheet receives the specimen
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile device-based human pathogen rapid response diagnostic test system providing a partially disposable test kit and a system functioning within a mobile device software application. The diagnostic test system combines surfaces chemistry, thermochemical detection and automated histological digital imaging to reduce cradle-to-grave testing time relative to the state-of-the-art PCR methods.