Multiplexed Assay Kit Assembly With Visual-Guided Reagent Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing binding assays face complexity in setup and processing, necessitating improved products and packaging that facilitate reagent preparation and assay processing.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising an integral assembly of visually marked containers and a receptacle holder, which guides users through the assay process by ensuring proper placement and orientation, reducing errors and expediting protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If complex binding assays are conducted using traditional packaging methods, then the assay can be performed, but the setup and processing become complicated and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The packaging is divided into multiple discrete containers (first container, second container, third container) each holding specific reagents. This segmentation allows users to systematically prepare reagents in an ordered manner, reducing confusion and errors during complex assay setup while maintaining clear organization of multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as the fourth container holding a master mix solution, and the fifth container with a visual indicator system. These intermediaries mediate between the user and the complex assay protocol, providing guidance and pre-prepared solutions that simplify the overall process without requiring users to manage all individual reagent preparations manually.
2Loss of information
If traditional packaging without visual indicators is used, then the packaging structure remains simple, but users cannot easily distinguish container contents and proper placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs visual indicators including color-coded labels on containers and a colorimetric visual indicator in the fifth container that changes color based on reagent presence or assay progress. This allows users to quickly distinguish between different container contents and monitor assay status without adding significant structural complexity, thereby preventing information loss while maintaining packaging simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a visual dimension to container identification through labels, colors, and visual indicators rather than relying solely on physical structural differences. This dimensional addition (visual information layer) enables easy distinction of container contents and proper placement without requiring complex structural modifications to the packaging itself.
3Reliability
If manual reagent preparation is performed without guidance, then no additional packaging components are needed, but users may make errors in reagent preparation and assay processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a master mix solution pre-prepared in the fourth container, and a visual indicator system pre-configured in the fifth container. These preliminary preparations reduce the steps users must perform manually, minimizing opportunities for error in reagent preparation while the structured multi-container design provides inherent guidance for proper assay processing sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual indicator in the fifth container provides real-time feedback to users about reagent presence, container placement correctness, or assay progress. This feedback mechanism increases reliability by alerting users to potential errors immediately, allowing correction before they affect assay results, while the feedback is integrated into the existing packaging structure rather than requiring separate monitoring systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to kits and components thereof used in the conduct of solid-phase binding assays.