Remote Fluorescence Assay Reader Using Image Capture and RF Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current disease diagnostic methods involving test samples require physical transportation to laboratories, leading to time-consuming delays, which can be hazardous during epidemics or when timely treatment is critical.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a compact reader device and smartphone application for fluorescence immunodiagnostic assays, allowing for on-site or remote analysis of test cartridges using image-capturing devices that upload images to a remote server for rapid diagnostic results, leveraging cloud computing and AI for accurate analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If test samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis, then accurate diagnostic results are obtained, but time-consuming delays occur due to physical transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the test cartridge using an image-capturing device that takes photographs of the test results. This digital image is then transmitted to a remote server for analysis, eliminating the need to physically transport the actual test cartridge to a laboratory while preserving the diagnostic information for accurate interpretation by AI algorithms.
2Reliability
If physical transportation of test cartridges is required, then laboratory analysis can be performed, but the process becomes complex and requires specialized facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical transportation with an optical and digital system. Instead of physically moving test cartridges through logistics chains, the invention uses image-capturing devices to optically scan the test results and transmit digital images through communication networks, thereby maintaining diagnostic reliability while dramatically simplifying the system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a digital image as an intermediary between the test cartridge and the analysis system. Rather than directly transporting the physical test cartridge to specialized laboratory facilities, the system creates a digital representation that can be transmitted and analyzed remotely, reducing the need for complex specialized infrastructure at multiple locations.
3Speed
If rapid diagnostic results are needed during epidemics, then immediate treatment can be initiated, but current methods cause hazardous delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary diagnostic action to be performed at the point of care using portable image-capturing devices. Test results can be immediately captured, transmitted, and preliminarily interpreted without waiting for laboratory processing, allowing immediate treatment decisions to be made while reducing the window during which infected individuals might spread disease.
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 quick, accurate, and cost-effective disease diagnosis without the need for specialized personnel or facilities, reducing the risk of infection spread and improving access to testing, especially during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
an image-capturing device to collect an image of a test cartridge
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit in an image-capturing device is provided. The circuit includes a light source controller configured to provide a signal to a light source when a cartridge mount has received, inside a dark chamber, a test cartridge. The circuit also includes a sensor array controller configured to activate at least one pixel in a sensor array when the light source is activated, and to receive a signal from the at least one pixel, the signal indicative of an optical intensity of a light emitted from the test cartridge. The circuit also includes a processor, configured to form a transmittable file with the signal from the at least one pixel, and a radio-frequency antenna configured to transmit the transmittable file to an external processor.