Multiplexed Rapid Test Device Asymmetrical Sample Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rapid test devices, such as lateral flow assays and colorimetric test strips, cannot integrate multiple diagnostic methods into a single device due to differences in sample volume and deposition mechanisms, limiting their ability to perform both antibody detection and chemical concentration analysis from a single test sample.
Innovation Solution
The development of a multiplexed rapid test device with asymmetrical sample distribution capabilities, allowing disproportionate amounts of a test sample to flow to different diagnostic elements, enabling both colorimetric and lateral flow assay analyses from a single sample without overwhelming either component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single rapid test device integrates multiple diagnostic methods (colorimetric and lateral flow), then the versatility and productivity improve, but the device complexity increases due to different sample volume and deposition mechanism requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The test device is segmented into multiple independent flow paths, each optimized for specific diagnostic methods. The sample distribution substrate divides the sample into separate streams that can be independently controlled to reach different diagnostic elements (colorimetric regions, lateral flow regions) with appropriate sample volumes and deposition mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the test device are designed with locally optimized properties. The sample distribution substrate creates zones with different hydrophilic/hydrophobic characteristics to control sample flow locally. Each diagnostic element region receives sample according to its specific requirements, allowing integration of multiple diagnostic methods with different sample volume needs.
2Measurement precision
If disproportionate amounts of test sample are distributed to different diagnostic elements, then the measurement precision improves, but the device complexity increases due to asymmetrical sample distribution requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The sample distribution system employs asymmetrical design where different flow paths have different sample distribution ratios. The sample distribution substrate creates unequal division of sample flow to different diagnostic elements based on their specific requirements. This asymmetrical distribution optimizes each diagnostic method's performance while maintaining a unified test device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes physical parameters of sample flow (flow rate, volume, deposition amount) differently for each diagnostic element. By controlling parameters such as hydrophilic/hydrophobic ratios in different regions of the sample distribution substrate, the system optimizes sample delivery parameters for each diagnostic method to achieve accurate test results.
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 simultaneous performance of multiple tests from a single sample, reducing complexity and ambiguity, and providing accurate results by optimizing liquid distribution to each diagnostic element based on its requirements.
Implementation Method 1
a first hydrophilic region and a first hydrophobic region that defines a boundary of the first hydrophilic region, wherein the first hydrophilic region receives liquid deposited at the sample receiving region
Implementation Method 2
a second hydrophobic region that opposes traversal of liquid from the second hydrophilic region to the third hydrophilic region
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment includes a sample receiving region, a first diagnostic element that includes one or more colorimetric analysis regions, and a second diagnostic element that includes one or more lateral flow assay analysis regions. The embodiment also includes a first flow path that allows a portion of a liquid deposited at the sample receiving region to flow to the first diagnostic element. The embodiment also includes a second flow path that allows a portion of the liquid deposited at the sample receiving region to flow to the second diagnostic element.