Disposable Palladium Electrode Assembly for Platelet Aggregation Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring platelet aggregation in small blood samples are either too expensive, difficult to manufacture, or produce inconsistent results, particularly when adapted for smaller sample sizes, making them unsuitable for cost-conscious laboratories and requiring a low-cost, easy-to-use solution for testing platelet function in whole blood.
Innovation Solution
A disposable assembly comprising an electrode subassembly with two fine palladium alloy wires and a cuvette subassembly designed for a small sample volume, allowing complete submersion of the wires and stable platelet aggregation measurement, along with a stir bar for efficient sample mixing, facilitating accurate impedance measurements in a compact sample chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If existing methods for measuring platelet aggregation are adapted for smaller sample sizes, then sample volume is reduced, but measurement reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable electrode assemblies that are pre-calibrated and designed for single-use in small sample volumes. These disposable electrodes eliminate the need for complex recalibration and maintain measurement reliability across different sample sizes, directly addressing the reliability issue when adapting to smaller samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical parameters of the measurement system by using impedance-based detection with specific frequency ranges (40-1000 Hz) optimized for small sample volumes. This parameter adjustment allows reliable measurement in reduced sample sizes without compromising accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If complex electrode assemblies are designed for small sample volumes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode assembly is segmented into modular components including separate working electrodes, reference electrodes, and magnetic stir bar attachments. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly while maintaining measurement precision through standardized interfaces and pre-calibrated configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable electrode assemblies are pre-calibrated and pre-configured to perform measurements automatically upon insertion into the sample chamber. This self-service design eliminates complex manual calibration procedures and reduces operational complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If manual calibration procedures are implemented, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
All calibration and configuration actions are performed preliminarily during the manufacturing of disposable electrode assemblies. The electrodes are pre-calibrated with known standards and pre-configured with appropriate impedance ranges, eliminating the need for manual calibration by the operator while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-calibration through automated reference measurements using built-in reference electrodes and standard solutions integrated into the disposable assemblies. This self-service calibration maintains accuracy while requiring minimal operator intervention.
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 reliable and cost-effective measurement of platelet aggregation in small sample sizes, ensuring reproducible results and ease of use, while maintaining the sensitivity and physiological representativeness of whole blood testing environments.
Implementation Method 1
The electrode assembly consists of two fine palladium alloy wires... allowing complete submersion of the wires and stable platelet aggregation measurement, along with a stir bar for efficient sample mixing, facilitating accurate impedance measurements
Implementation Method 2
a stir bar for efficient sample mixing, facilitating accurate impedance measurements in a compact sample chamber
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for testing platelet aggregation including an electrode subassembly that is mounted in a cuvette subassembly for use with relatively small samples containing platelets.