Reaction Cassette Segmentation for Multi-Analyte Diagnostics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current diagnostic assays are limited in the number of analytes that can be detected from a single liquid test sample and often require the entire sample volume for a single assay, restricting the ability to perform multiple tests.

Innovation Solution

A reaction cassette that mixes a patient's single liquid test sample with a reaction buffer and separates it into multiple subsamples, allowing for the conductance of multiple diagnostic assays within the same cassette, utilizing a buffer tray with a flexible cover for reagent dispensing and a filter to ensure accurate sample separation and analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the entire volume of patient's liquid test sample is utilized in a single assay, then the diagnostic accuracy for that specific analyte is improved, but the ability to perform multiple diagnostic assays on the same sample is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic accuracyVSAvoidability to perform multiple assays
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The reaction chamber is divided into multiple separate reaction zones, each capable of performing different diagnostic assays. The sample is distributed into these separate zones, allowing multiple assays to be performed simultaneously on the same sample without depleting it entirely for one test.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The reaction chamber is designed as a multi-functional component that can simultaneously support multiple different diagnostic assays. Each reaction zone within the chamber can be configured for different analytes, enabling the single chamber to serve multiple diagnostic purposes.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple diagnostic assays are performed on a single liquid test sample, then the diagnostic capabilities and analyte detection range are increased, but the sample volume required and reagent complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of analytes detectedVSAvoidsample volume and reagent consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The reaction chamber is segmented into multiple separate reaction zones, each dedicated to a specific analyte or assay type. This segmentation allows the sample to be distributed efficiently across multiple assays simultaneously, increasing the number of detectable analytes while controlling overall reagent consumption through targeted reagent placement in each zone.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple reaction zones are nested within the single reaction chamber structure, with each zone containing specific reagents and components needed for its designated assay. This nested arrangement allows multiple assays to be contained within a single integrated platform, reducing overall system complexity and reagent requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Productivity

If multiple diagnostic assays are conducted within a single reaction cassette, then the productivity and diagnostic throughput are improved, but the device complexity and structural requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnostic throughputVSAvoidreaction cassette structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple reaction zones, reagent delivery systems, and detection components are merged into a single integrated reaction cassette. This combining of functions into one unified structure allows multiple diagnostic assays to be performed simultaneously, improving throughput while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The reaction cassette is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different assays through standardized reaction zones and interfaces. This multi-functional design enables high productivity by allowing various analytes to be tested using the same basic cassette structure, reducing the need for completely different devices for different tests.

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

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 the detection of multiple analytes from a single liquid test sample without depleting the sample volume, facilitating increased diagnostic capabilities within a single reaction cassette.

Implementation Method 1

mixes a patient's single liquid test sample with a reaction buffer

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMixing:

Implementation Method 2

separates it into multiple subsamples, allowing for the conductance of multiple diagnostic assays

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSeparation:

Implementation Method 3

a filter to ensure accurate sample separation and analysis

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP3752290B1Methods of using a diagnostic assay cartridge for conducting multiple diagnostic assays on a patient's single liquid test sample
Publication Date: 2023.08.23 SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS INC

AI summary

Devices, kits, and methods for conducting a plurality of diagnostic assays on a patient's single liquid test sample within a single reaction cassette.