Multi-Analyte Detection System with Merged Reporter Substrate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gas-based detectors for explosives, hazardous chemicals, and biological substances have limited ability to detect multiple threats, requiring multiple detectors and increasing logistical and financial burdens, as well as exposing vulnerabilities due to limited operational periods and susceptibility to untargeted contaminants.
Innovation Solution
A multi-analyte detection system comprising a flow system with a sensor head and heating block, a module receiver, and a substrate with multiple reporters, allowing for simultaneous detection of multiple analytes in a gas sample through optical communication and a control system for identifying analytes and minimizing consumable usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detectors with different reporters are deployed to detect multiple threats, then the detection capability for different analytes is improved, but the logistical footprint and consumable expenses increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple reporters that detect different analytes onto a single substrate, creating a multi-analyte detection system. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate detectors, reducing logistical footprint and consumable expenses while maintaining the ability to detect multiple threats simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed with universal functionality to detect multiple types of analytes (explosives, hazardous chemicals, biological substances) using a single detector equipped with multiple reporters on one substrate, making the system adaptable to various detection needs without requiring multiple specialized devices
2Device complexity
If a single detector with one reporter is used to reduce logistical burden, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to detect multiple threats is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple reporters with different detection specificities are merged onto a single substrate within one detector, enabling the device to maintain low complexity while achieving multi-analyte detection capability through the integrated reporter system
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple detectors are deployed to cover all potential threats, then the detection versatility is improved, but the processing time for transitory goods or people increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple reporters onto a single substrate in one detector, the system can analyze multiple analytes simultaneously in a single pass through the detector, eliminating the need for sequential testing with multiple detectors and thus reducing processing time while maintaining comprehensive threat coverage
4Reliability
If the detector uses a porous membrane with chemical reporters for detection, then the detection response is achieved, but the operational period is short and limited before replacement is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a replaceable substrate containing the reporters, allowing the consumable reporter elements to be discarded after use and recovered/replaced without replacing the entire detector system, thereby extending the effective operational period while maintaining detection response capability
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 rapid, efficient detection of multiple substances with reduced logistical and financial burdens, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced security by minimizing the need for multiple detectors and extending the interval between consumable replacements.
Implementation Method 1
The reporter is selected for its ability to respond to a particular analyte curried by the gas sample... suitable for illuminating the sample area, and for at least one optical detector suitable for detecting a change in fluorescence
Implementation Method 2
The apparatus has a heater positioned within the module receiver and positioned to provide heat to the sensor head, the heating block, and the module receiver
Implementation Method 3
detecting a change in fluorescence, color, or a chemiluminescent reaction
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides for a multiple analyte detector that is capable of detecting and identifying explosive, chemical or biological substances having multiple analytes with a single system having multiple reporters. The reporters include fluorescent polymers, conducting polymers, metal oxide elements, electrochemical cells, etc. The reporters may be combinations of other reporters that are optimized for broadband detection.