Portable Assay Apparatus with Modular Frame for On-Site Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for portable assay apparatus and methods that can conveniently and effectively provide on-site assay results and communicate assay results to users, with existing solutions lacking in portability, efficiency, adaptability, accuracy, and security.

Innovation Solution

A portable assay apparatus comprising an assay module and a frame that releasably retains the module, along with functional modules such as a wireless data transmission device, microprocessor, and display device, enabling on-site assays and secure communication of results through a smartphone or tablet computer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If portable assay apparatus is used for on-site testing, then accessibility and convenience are improved, but measurement precision and reliability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidassay accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The assay apparatus is divided into separate functional modules including a sample processing module, a detection module, and a data processing module. Each module is optimized independently, with the detection module containing precision-engineered components for accurate measurements while the overall system remains portable and easy to operate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functional modules are integrated into the portable frame, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional flexibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The portable frame is designed with universal interfaces and standardized mounting mechanisms that allow different functional modules to be interchangeably installed. The same frame structure can accommodate various assay modules for different testing purposes, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices and reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of information

If wireless data transmission and security features are added, then communication capability and security are improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission securityVSAvoidbattery power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless data transmission system operates in periodic bursts rather than continuously. Data is transmitted only when assay results are obtained or when prompted, with the system entering low-power sleep modes between transmissions. This periodic operation maintains secure communication capabilities while significantly reducing overall power consumption of the portable device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS10753921B2Assay apparatus
Publication Date: 2020.08.25 IASSAY INC
  • US10753921B2 patent drawing
  • US10753921B2 patent drawing
  • US10753921B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided herein is an assay apparatus comprising at least one assay module; and a portable frame adapted to releasably retain the at least one assay module. The at least one assay module is adapted to perform at least one assay. The assay module comprises a sample receiver and an assay device operatively associated with the sample receiver. In some embodiments, the assay apparatus further comprises at least one functional module releasably retained by the portable frame. The functional module is operatively associated with the assay module when retained by the portable frame.