Portable Liquid Analyzer with Dry-Reagent Color Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing threat liquid detection devices are costly, require hazardous reagents, involve complex multi-step processes, and pose safety risks, while lacking portability and efficiency for mass transit screening.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a solid support coated with dry chemical reagents that provide presumptive color indications for multiple threat liquids, using a single test and avoiding hazardous materials, with a portable design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate test devices are used to identify different threat liquids, then identification capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by integrating multiple chemical reagents onto a single solid support substrate, enabling one device to detect multiple different threat liquids simultaneously. Each reagent is spatially separated but co-located on the same device, providing multi-functional detection capability without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate test devices into a single integrated device by combining multiple chemical reagents on one solid support. This consolidation reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to identify various threat liquids through the combined reagent system.
2Measurement precision
If chemical reagents are used to facilitate presumptive identification, then detection capability is improved, but hazardous exposure risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a solid support substrate that acts as a protective matrix to contain and deliver chemical reagents in a controlled manner. This solid-phase format reduces the need for hazardous liquid reagents and minimizes operator exposure risks while maintaining detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of reagents from liquid to solid phase by coating them onto a solid support. This parameter change reduces volatility and hazardous exposure risks while preserving the chemical reactivity needed for threat liquid detection.
3Measurement precision
If multi-step reaction sequences are used for testing, then detection accuracy is improved, but analytical time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-coating the solid support with multiple chemical reagents before use. This pre-preparation eliminates the need for sequential addition of reagents during testing, allowing simultaneous or rapid sequential reactions that reduce analytical time while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous detection by having multiple reagents ready on the solid support, allowing the testing process to proceed without interruption or waiting for sequential reagent additions. This continuity maintains detection accuracy while significantly reducing total analytical time.
4Ease of operation
If portable design is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection system into a compact solid support format with integrated reagents, eliminating the need for bulky liquid handling equipment, power supplies, or complex mechanical components. This segmentation enables portability while using simple, straightforward manufacturing processes for applying reagents to the solid support.
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
The system reduces manufacturing costs, minimizes hazardous exposure, and enables rapid, single-step identification of various threat liquids, enhancing safety and usability for mass transit screening.
Implementation Method 1
Each chemical reagent produces a presumptive color indication that identifies or excludes the presence of a target molecule or ion
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for identifying the presence of a target molecule or ion. The system comprises a solid support, and at least one chemical reagent applied to the solid support. Each chemical reagent produces a presumptive color indication that identifies or excludes the presence of a target molecule or ion.