Automated Rapid Test Cartridge with Magnetic Bead Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current COVID-19 detection methods, such as RT-PCR, are time-consuming, require specialized equipment and personnel, and are costly, while rapid tests lack reproducibility and pose risks to healthcare workers, and there is a need for rapid, inexpensive, and safe methods to assess immunity and viral load.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, automated rapid test device using Microscale Affinity Chromatography (MAC) and optical molecular sensing technology, employing disposable cartridges with pre-filled reagents and magnetic beads for rapid detection of COVID-19 and antibodies in saliva samples, providing results in minutes without the need for cleaning or servicing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RT-PCR is used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection process into discrete automated steps: sample loading, magnetic bead mixing, washing, and fluorescence detection. Each step is performed by dedicated automated components, enabling rapid sequential processing that maintains RT-PCR detection accuracy while reducing total test time from hours to minutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated magnetic actuation. Magnetic beads are used to automate mixing, washing, and sample handling, eliminating the need for manual pipetting and mechanical manipulation, thereby reducing test duration while maintaining detection precision.
2Measurement precision
If RT-PCR is used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into a single integrated automated device: sample preparation, magnetic bead manipulation, washing, and fluorescence detection are all performed by one instrument. This consolidation maintains RT-PCR detection accuracy while reducing the need for multiple separate pieces of specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated device performs multiple functions using a single platform: it can load samples, manipulate magnetic beads for mixing and washing, and detect fluorescence signals. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment for each step.
3Loss of time
If rapid tests are used, then loss of time is reduced, but reliability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated feedback control through fluorescence detection that quantifies binding signals in real-time. This objective measurement feedback ensures reproducible results by automatically determining endpoint criteria, eliminating subjective interpretation and improving reliability while maintaining rapid test duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated device performs self-service through program-controlled magnetic bead manipulation and automated data analysis. The system automatically mixes, washes, detects, and interprets results without manual intervention, ensuring consistent reproducible results across tests while maintaining rapid processing.
4Productivity
If automated mixing is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces complex mechanical mixing mechanisms with magnetic field actuation. Magnetic beads are manipulated using magnetic fields generated by simple electromagnets or permanent magnets, eliminating the need for complex mechanical mixers, stirrers, or pumps while achieving rapid automated mixing and maintaining high productivity.
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 rapid, accurate, and safe detection of COVID-19 and assessment of immunity with high sensitivity, reducing the risk to healthcare workers and lowering costs, suitable for point-of-care use in various settings.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet disposed on the pinion and disposed relative to the cartridge so as to move at least a portion of the contents of the cartridge among chambers of the cartridge when the motor is driven
Implementation Method 2
a first reservoir pre-filled with reagent labeled with a fluorescent compound, the reagent antibodies adapted to bind to micromagnetic particles that are bound to the target substance
Implementation Method 3
The cartridge may comprise a first chamber configured to receive a test sample including a target substance, the first chamber pre-filled with micromagnetic particles treated so as to bind to the target substance
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments may include a rapid test device that provide rapid detection of substances, including those involved in pathogen infection, for example, using Microscale Affinity Chromatography (MAC), indirect ELISA, and optical molecular sensing technology. For example, in an embodiment, an apparatus may comprise a loading bay disposed on the apparatus to receive a cartridge, a door disposed on the apparatus to cover the loading bay, a plurality of prongs disposed on an interior of the door to provide actuation force to dispense blister reservoirs disposed on the cartridge when the door is closed, and a device disposed relative to the cartridge to move at least a portion of contents of the cartridge among chambers of the cartridge.