Multi-Test Lateral Flow Assay Device with Capillary Distribution
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current lateral flow assay devices are limited to detecting a single analyte per test sample, requiring multiple handling steps that can lead to contamination, errors, and inefficiencies, especially when testing for multiple chemicals in a single fluid sample, and lack automated result recording.
Innovation Solution
A multi-test lateral flow assay device with multiple test strips that can detect different analytes in a single fluid sample, featuring a collar-shaped sample pad for distributing the sample to each strip via capillary action, and optical detection using photosensitive detectors to automatically communicate results to an electronic device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate testing procedures are used to detect multiple analytes, then comprehensive analyte detection is achieved, but handling complexity increases and contamination risk rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate testing procedures into a single integrated device that can detect multiple analytes simultaneously. The device incorporates multiple test strips with different analyte-specific reagents, allowing comprehensive detection in one operation rather than requiring sequential separate tests.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a universal testing platform capable of detecting various analytes through multiple test strips. Each test strip is specialized for a specific analyte, but all are integrated into one device that handles a single fluid sample, providing multi-functionality without increasing handling complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If manual data entry is used to record test results, then data collection is simple, but human error increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of data entry with an automated optical detection system. Photosensitive detectors automatically read the test results from the test strips and transmit data electronically, eliminating human intervention in data recording and reducing errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-data-collection through integrated optical detectors that automatically capture and transmit test results. The system serves itself by eliminating the need for external manual data entry, thereby increasing productivity and reducing human error.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple handling steps are required for testing, then comprehensive analysis is possible, but spillage and contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple handling steps into a single integrated operation. The device accepts one fluid sample and internally distributes it to multiple test strips through capillary action, eliminating the need for repeated sample transfers and reducing contamination risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses an internal fluid distribution system as an intermediary to transport the sample to multiple test strips without external handling. This controlled internal pathway prevents spillage and maintains sample integrity throughout the testing process.
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 efficient and accurate detection of multiple analytes in a single sample, reducing contamination risks and manual data entry errors, while automating result recording for improved reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The collar-shaped sample pad accepts a fluid sample from the nosepiece and distributes a fluid sub-sample to the multiple test strips through capillary action
Implementation Method 2
The photosensitive detectors comprise a field of light emitting diodes and photodiodes, which read the test results by detecting, for example, the presence of a test line, or color change of a test line
Data Source
AI summary
A lateral flow assay device that contains multiple test strips, allows multiple tests on a single fluid sample, and displays and transmits the test results to external monitors. The device receives a fluid sample and distributes it to multiple, independent test strips by capillary action. Each test strip has a conjugate pad, test line, and control line, that are designed to detect the presence of a specific analyte. Once the test is complete, photosensitive detectors convert the test results into electrical signals and transmit them to a motherboard. The motherboard then analyzes the test results to format appropriate messages, and transmits the messages to external monitors as well as to the device's own display screen.