Modular Biological Testing Device With Optical Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing biological samples in the field face challenges such as contamination, sample degradation, and insufficient sample quantity, which require additional resources and time for re-collection and testing.
Innovation Solution
A modular testing device comprising a base unit and expansion units, equipped with an optical assembly for sample analysis, allows for on-site testing with isothermal amplification processes, reducing the need for thermocycling and enabling quick analysis of biological samples with reagent mixtures using fluorescence, turbidity, or other analytical methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If portable testing devices are made small for easy transport, then portability is improved, but the number of biological samples that can be tested at one time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The testing device is divided into a base unit and multiple interchangeable expansion units. Each expansion unit contains a receptacle for sample holders and an optical assembly for testing. This segmentation allows the device to maintain a compact base unit for portability while enabling the addition of multiple expansion units to increase testing capacity when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of expansion units. Each expansion unit contains complete testing functionality with its own optical assembly and receptacle, allowing any expansion unit to be interchangeably attached to the base unit. This multi-functionality enables the system to adapt to different testing needs while maintaining a compact form factor.
2Measurement precision
If biological samples are collected in the field and transported to the laboratory, then comprehensive testing equipment can be used, but sample contamination and degradation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The portable testing device enables preliminary testing actions to be performed directly at the sample collection site in the field. The device includes all necessary components (optical assembly, receptacle for sample holders, and processing unit) to conduct complete biological sample analysis without requiring subsequent transport to a laboratory, thereby preventing contamination and degradation that occur during transportation.
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 modular device enables efficient, on-site analysis of biological samples, minimizing contamination and sample degradation, allowing for immediate results and reducing the need for additional sampling, thus enhancing field testing capabilities and resource efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The optical assembly is configured to excite and detect a signal from the biological sample and reagent mixture
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A modular testing device includes a base unit and an expansion unit that communicates with the base unit. The expansion unit includes a housing, a receptacle in which a sample holder containing a biological sample and reagent mixture can be placed, and an optical assembly positioned in the housing. The optical assembly is configured to amplify and detect a signal from the biological sample and reagent mixture. Data that is collected in the optical assembly is communicated to the base unit.