Motorized Mixer for Non-Invasive Biological Sample Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing biological samples, such as stool, require invasive procedures and are not conducive to convenient, non-invasive, and rapid analysis outside of a medical facility.
Innovation Solution
A test sampling system comprising an outer container with a motorized mixer and a test sensor, which processes and analyzes biological samples by imparting a uniform consistency and detecting target analytes like proteins or nucleic acids, providing easily understandable results without the need for a doctor's visit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If invasive procedures like colonoscopy are used to detect diseases, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but patient comfort and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the diagnostic testing function from the clinical setting and places it in a home environment. The stool sample collection and analysis system can be used by patients at home, extracting the need for invasive procedures while maintaining diagnostic capability through non-invasive stool analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses stool samples as an intermediary medium to detect diseases without requiring direct examination of internal organs. The stool sample serves as a mediator that contains biomarkers indicating gastrointestinal conditions, allowing indirect but accurate diagnosis without invasive procedures
2Productivity
If rapid testing of biological samples is implemented, then testing speed is improved, but sample processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single integrated device: sample collection, mixing, filtration, and analysis are all performed by one system. The processor combines mechanical mixing with analytical detection, eliminating the need for separate processing steps and reducing overall complexity despite rapid testing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service through automated mixing and processing. The processor automatically mixes the stool sample with buffer solution and performs analysis without requiring manual intervention, enabling rapid testing while keeping the system simple to operate
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
Enables convenient, non-invasive testing of biological samples, such as stool, by processing and analyzing samples to detect target analytes, offering rapid and understandable results without the need for invasive procedures.
Implementation Method 1
a motorized mixer... configured to impart a uniform consistency to the test sample
Implementation Method 2
The test sensor can detect proteins or fragments of proteins
Implementation Method 3
The test sensor can detect different forms of nucleic acid (including but not limited to DNA, mRNA, micro-RNA, siRNA)
Implementation Method 4
via detection of specific nucleic acid sequences, for instance through hybridization to an oligonucleotide or through a catalytically inactive CRISPR complex with a sgRNA having an oligonucleotide sequence that is complementary with a DNA sequence of interest
Implementation Method 5
In some embodiments, isothermal DNA amplification can be employed to amplify the DNA and hence facilitate genetic screening for biomarkers
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for analyzing a test sample is provided. A system includes an outer container having first and second ends and a base affixed to the first end. The system includes a motorized mixer affixed to the base. The system includes an inner container having first and second ends. The inner container is sized to be received within the outer container. The first end of the inner container has a membrane layer that is pierceable by the mixer when the inner container is received by the outer container to bring the mixer into contact with a test sample in the inner container. The system further includes a test sensor configured for contact with the test sample, and one or more processors for receiving signals from the test sensor following actuation of the mixer to cause mixing of the sample and analyzing the sample based on the signals.