Modular Assay Reader With Barcode Input and Result Traceability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing immunoassay devices lack simplicity, reliability, and flexibility for rapid detection of analytes, particularly in non-clinical settings, and often require complex user interactions and manual data entry, which can lead to errors and non-compliance with documentation standards.
Innovation Solution
A modular assay reader device with interchangeable modules, including a barcode scanner and optional network connectivity, allows for simplified user input, automated result analysis, and seamless data transmission to remote storage, ensuring compliance with documentation standards through customizable workflows and automatic data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual data entry is required for test results, then user control and verification are improved, but time consumption and error risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic data capture through barcode scanning and automated result transmission to remote storage devices. The assay reader device autonomously reads barcodes, processes test results, and uploads data without requiring manual user input, thereby eliminating transcription errors and saving time while maintaining data accuracy through automated verification protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry operations with automated optical scanning and electronic data transmission systems. Barcode scanners automatically capture identification information, and wireless communication modules automatically transmit results to remote storage, substituting manual typing and paper-based processes with automated electronic systems that reduce both time and error rates.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed functionality devices are used, then manufacturing and training are simplified, but adaptability to different testing needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs interchangeable modules that can be attached to or removed from the base assay reader device. These modules include barcode scanners, network connectivity components, and other functional add-ons that allow the device to be customized for different testing scenarios. The modular design enables manufacturers to produce standardized base units while allowing end-users to configure specific functionality as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The assay reader device is designed with universal interfaces and communication protocols that accommodate multiple types of modules and connectivity options. The device can function as a standalone unit or integrate with various remote storage devices, networks, and accessories through standardized connections, enabling a single device platform to serve multiple testing configurations and environments.
3Productivity
If automated result transmission is implemented, then data integration speed is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts communication and data transmission functionality into separate, dedicated modules rather than integrating all complexity into the main device. The assay reader can operate with basic local storage, while optional wireless communication modules handle remote data transmission. This separation allows automated transmission capabilities to be added only when needed, maintaining simplicity for basic operations while enabling advanced productivity features when required.
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 provides rapid, reliable, and compliant testing with reduced user interaction, minimizing errors and enabling real-time data integration into centralized systems, enhancing traceability and compliance across various healthcare settings.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor positioned to detect changes in optical characteristics of an assay following application of a biological sample to the assay, the optical sensor configured to generate a signal indicating the detected changes in optical characteristics of the assay
Data Source
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AI summary
Certain aspects relate to systems and usage techniques for modular lateral flow assay reader devices that can receive a number of different modules having a barcode scanning input device and optional network connectivity capabilities. A barcode scanning module can provide a simple input method that reduces errors compared to manual data entry. A network connectivity module can enable transmission of test results over a public network for standardizing, tracking and electronically connecting test results from assay reader devices located throughout a network. Such devices can programmatically implement a simplified workflow whereby pressing a single button readies the device for imaging, analyzing, and data storage/transmission and, in some implementations, configures the device to operate in one of a plurality of device operation modes.