Modular Diagnostic System for Rapid Point-of-Care Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current clinical testing methods are hindered by human errors, time-consuming processes, limited accessibility, and inefficiencies in sample collection and analysis, leading to delayed diagnosis and inadequate medical responses, particularly for chronic disease management and time-sensitive conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising sample preparation, assay, and detection stations that perform various laboratory procedures such as centrifugation, immunoassays, and cytometric assays, capable of processing small sample volumes with high accuracy and speed, and configured for point-of-service use to facilitate rapid and frequent diagnostics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If samples are transported to centralized laboratories for testing, then comprehensive analysis can be performed, but the turn around time becomes prohibitively long and accessibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized laboratory testing function into distributed point-of-care testing modules that can be placed in various healthcare settings. This allows comprehensive analysis capabilities to be distributed closer to patients, reducing transport time and enabling faster turnaround while maintaining analytical quality through standardized modular systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces automated sample handling systems and robotic platforms as intermediaries between sample collection and centralized analysis. These intermediaries automate sample processing, preparation, and transport, significantly reducing manual intervention time and enabling faster throughput while maintaining sample integrity throughout the workflow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual sample processing is used, then flexibility in handling various sample types is maintained, but human errors increase and processing speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automated sample processing systems with self-calibrating and self-diagnosing capabilities. The systems automatically adapt to different sample types through programmed protocols and sensors that detect sample characteristics, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining flexibility through software-configurable workflows that reduce human error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs multi-functional processing modules that can handle various sample types (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) through a single automated platform. These universal modules use programmable robotics and sensor arrays to automatically adjust processing parameters based on sample type, providing both flexibility and consistency without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If frequent testing is conducted to monitor disease progression, then better disease management is achieved, but patient burden and healthcare costs increase due to repeated visits to specialized locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions testing from centralized laboratory locations to distributed point-of-care settings within existing healthcare facilities and even home environments. This dimensional shift in testing location enables frequent monitoring without requiring patients to travel to specialized laboratories, reducing burden while improving monitoring frequency and disease management outcomes.
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 system enables rapid, accurate, and frequent diagnostics, improving disease management and reducing healthcare costs by providing timely and reliable test results, thereby enhancing patient outcomes and reducing hospitalizations.
Implementation Method 1
The system is configured to perform (a) at least one sample preparation procedure selected from the group consisting of sample processing, centrifugation, separation, and chemical processing
Implementation Method 2
multiple types of assays selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay
Implementation Method 3
multiple types of assays selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.