Optical Format With Platform-And-Well Construction For Small Sample Volumes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical formats for fluid analysis require large sample sizes and suffer from mechanical tolerance issues, leading to inaccurate testing due to inconsistent reagent placement and high manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular optical format comprising two pieces that allow precise sample volume measurement and consistent reagent placement, utilizing a mesa for reagent deposition and capillary action for sample transport, manufactured using continuous web processing for cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional optical formats are used, then testing can be performed, but large sample sizes (300 nl or greater) are required
Solution Approach 1:
The format is divided into two separate pieces: a first format member containing the sample well and a second format member containing the platform with reagent. This segmentation allows for precise control of sample volume in the well while ensuring accurate reagent placement on the platform, enabling accurate testing with smaller sample volumes (approximately 50 nl).
Solution Approach 2:
The platform is prepared in advance with a predetermined amount of reagent placed on its surface before the sample is introduced. This preliminary placement of reagent ensures that the correct amount is available for reaction with the sample, improving testing accuracy while reducing the required sample volume.
2Manufacturing precision
If conventional optical formats are used, then testing can be performed, but mechanical tolerance issues cause inconsistent reagent placement
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the format into two pieces with the reagent placed on the platform of the second format member, the system eliminates mechanical tolerance issues associated with single-piece formats. The platform provides a stable, dedicated surface for reagent placement, ensuring consistent positioning and improving test accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional optical formats are used, then testing can be performed, but manufacturing costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The two-piece construction allows for simplified manufacturing of individual components that can be produced more cost-effectively and then assembled. The first format member with the sample well and the second format member with the platform can be manufactured separately using optimized processes, reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining precise sample volume control.
4Volume of moving object
If conventional optical formats are used, then testing can be performed, but the formats are larger than desired
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the format into two separate pieces allows for more efficient use of space. The sample well in the first format member and the platform with reagent in the second format member can be compactly designed and positioned, reducing the overall size of the format while maintaining the necessary sample volume capacity for accurate testing.
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 accurate optical testing with small sample volumes (approximately 50 nl) and consistent reagent placement, reducing manufacturing costs and improving testing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The well is connected to a testing region... sample volume is metered to a required amount within an optical format before the sample is allowed to react with a reagent
Data Source
AI summary
Formats for optical analysis of fluid samples are provided with platforms and wells for contacting fluid samples and bringing reagents in contact with fluid samples. Formats may be made in opposing platform-and-well constructions, allowing a platform protruding from one format member to enter a well contained within an opposing format member. A sample fill nose accepts sample fluid from a sample collection opening and transports the sample fluid through the format.