Reagent Dispensing Cap for Automated Clinical Analyzer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in-vitro diagnostic testing procedures involve manual reagent preparation, leading to inefficiencies, human error, contamination risks, and reagent evaporation, which compromises test consistency and reliability.
Innovation Solution
An automated reagent dispensing cap system that stores and mixes reagent components within an automated clinical analyzer, preventing evaporation and minimizing human intervention through a housing with internal threads, a rotatable cylindrical member, and a seal to maintain reagent stability and consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual reagent preparation is used, then flexibility and ease of operation are maintained, but productivity is reduced and human error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent container is designed to automatically mix reagent components without external manual intervention. The container self-performs the mixing function through its internal structure (e.g., T-shaped mixing chamber, rotating mixing element) that automatically combines reagent components when the container is placed in the analyzer, eliminating the need for manual pipetting and mixing while maintaining operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If manual mixing is performed, then device complexity is minimized, but manufacturing precision and reliability are compromised due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent container is segmented into distinct functional zones: a storage chamber for concentrated reagent, a T-shaped mixing chamber for dilution, and a dispensing chamber for final delivery. This segmentation allows each zone to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall reliability through structured, repeatable mixing geometry rather than manual variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mixing chamber is nested within the container structure, with the T-shaped mixing zone integrated into the overall container geometry. The dispensing needle is nested within the mixing chamber, and the entire mixing assembly is contained within the outer container shell. This nesting provides a compact, reliable structure that ensures consistent mixing without requiring complex external mixing devices.
3Reliability
If reagent containers are placed in clinical analyzers, then automated analysis is enabled, but reagent evaporation occurs compromising result consistency
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent container incorporates a flexible membrane or thin film barrier that seals the reagent storage and mixing chambers. This flexible barrier prevents evaporation of the reagent while allowing the container to maintain its structural integrity during automated handling in the clinical analyzer, ensuring reagent stability without compromising the automated analysis capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is an automated reagent dispensing cap and methods of use in an automated clinical analyzer for introducing one or more reagent components housed in the reagent dispensing cap into a container enclosing another reagent component with which it is combined to achieve a reagent useful for diagnostic testing.