Differential Pressure Filtration for Rapid Microorganism Counting

The patent replaces conventional mechanical and chemical enumeration methods (viable plate count, direct microscopic count, turbidimetric method) with an acoustic impedance-based detection system. The system uses acoustic waves to detect changes in the liquid sample caused by microorganisms, enabling rapid measurement without time-consuming cultural or staining procedures. This substitution of detection mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement accuracy while dramatically reducing enumeration time.

The patent measures acoustic impedance parameters of the liquid sample to detect microorganism concentration. By monitoring changes in acoustic impedance (a physical parameter) rather than using biological or chemical methods, the system achieves rapid enumeration. The acoustic impedance changes in response to microorganism presence and concentration, providing a direct correlation between measured parameter and target analyte, thus resolving the time-accuracy contradiction.

The patent employs dynamic acoustic impedance measurement that can adapt to different microorganism concentrations. The system measures the dynamic response of the liquid sample to acoustic waves, and the acoustic impedance changes proportionally with microorganism concentration across a wide range. This dynamic measurement approach allows the system to maintain reliability whether the concentration is low or high, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and reliability.

The acoustic impedance-based detection system is designed to detect various types of microorganisms (bacteria, yeast, mold) across different concentration ranges using the same fundamental measurement principle. The system's universal detection mechanism does not require method adjustment for different concentration levels, providing both wide adaptability and consistent measurement reliability across the entire applicable range.

The patent uses disposable acoustic sensors or sensor tips that are inexpensive to manufacture and replace. Rather than requiring expensive, complex instrumentation for each measurement, the system employs cost-effective acoustic detection elements that can be disposed of after use, eliminating the need for expensive sterilization, calibration, and maintenance infrastructure while maintaining measurement precision.

The patent replaces expensive conventional enumeration equipment (incubators for plate counts, microscopes for direct counting, spectrophotometers for turbidimetry) with an acoustic impedance measurement system. Acoustic sensors and signal processing electronics are generally less expensive than the specialized equipment required by traditional methods, thereby reducing system cost while preserving or improving measurement accuracy.