Modular Diagnostic Device Segmentation for Point-of-Care Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic methods for living beings are either time-consuming due to sample transportation to laboratories, costly and complex devices that require specialized training, or limited by the use of single-use devices with restricted capabilities and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A portable diagnostic device with a reusable part and a disposable part, where the reusable part contains a container for reagents or buffers, and the disposable part collects biological samples, allowing for precise fluid control and easy replacement, enabling point-of-care diagnostics without the need for extensive training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If single-use diagnostic devices are used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision and device capabilities deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic device is divided into two distinct segments: a reusable main body containing precision components (pump, valves, sensors, processor) and disposable parts (sample collection device, test strip) that are replaced after each use. This segmentation allows the precision measurement components to be maintained and reused while the disposable parts ensure ease of operation and prevent cross-contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable components (sample collection device, test strip) that are inexpensive and replaced after single use. These disposable parts handle the sample collection and initial testing functions, while the expensive reusable main body provides the precision measurement and analysis capabilities, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If complex diagnostic devices are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The complex precision measurement and control functions (pump, valves, sensors, processor) are extracted into a separate reusable main body, while the disposable parts contain only the sample collection and basic testing functions. This extraction reduces the complexity burden on the user-operated disposable components while maintaining high measurement precision in the reusable portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The reusable main body is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different disposable parts for various diagnostic tests. The main body contains multi-functional components (pump, valves, sensors) that can work with different test strips and sample collection devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision across multiple test types.
3Measurement precision
If sample transportation to laboratories is used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic device enables self-service diagnostics at the point of care. The reusable main body with its integrated pump, valves, and sensors automatically performs sample processing, reagent mixing, and measurement without requiring laboratory infrastructure. The disposable parts facilitate easy sample collection and disposal, allowing precise measurements to be performed immediately at the patient location, eliminating transportation time while maintaining measurement precision.
Data Source
AI summary
In some examples, a diagnostic device includes a reusable part to receive a container of a fluid, the reusable part reusable for a plurality of diagnostic tests. The diagnostic device further includes a disposable part detachably attached to the reusable part and comprising a sample collector to collect a target sample of a living being. The diagnostic device further includes a tester comprising a fluid channel to transport the fluid to combine the fluid and the target sample to form a fluid combination, and to use the fluid combination to diagnose a condition of the target sample.