Repositioning Device for Diagnostic Test Strip Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of diagnostic test strips for analyte concentration determination in fluid samples poses challenges in handling and reduces the risk of contaminating read-heads, as smaller sizes increase material and packing costs while complicating user manipulation and increasing contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a meter with a repositioning device and a test strip that includes a read-head, a seating device, and a display, where the repositioning device moves the test strip from a loading position to a testing position, positioning the test element proximate to the read-head, allowing for easier handling and reduced contamination risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If the size of the test strip is decreased to minimize material and packing costs, then the cost of the test sensors is reduced, but the difficulty in handling and manipulating the strip by a user increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip is segmented into distinct functional zones: a loading position for sample application, a repositioning mechanism, and a testing position for analysis. This segmentation allows the strip to be optimized for cost while maintaining ease of use through structured interaction points
Solution Approach 2:
A repositioning device acts as an intermediary between the user and the test strip. This mediator facilitates easy handling and precise positioning of the strip without requiring direct manual manipulation of the small strip components, thus resolving the handling difficulty while maintaining small strip size
2Loss of substance
If the size of the test strip is decreased to minimize packing costs, then the packing costs are reduced, but the risk of contaminating the read-head on a meter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The repositioning device serves as a protective intermediary that controls the movement and positioning of the test strip relative to the read-head. This intermediary mechanism ensures precise alignment and minimizes direct contact between potentially contaminating surfaces, reducing contamination risk while maintaining compact strip design
Solution Approach 2:
The test strip is pre-positioned on the repositioning device at the loading position before approaching the read-head. This preliminary positioning action ensures proper orientation and spacing is established before the strip enters the testing zone, preventing contamination while maintaining small strip dimensions
3Loss of substance
If the test strip size is reduced, then material costs decrease, but the functionality and accuracy of analyte detection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The test strip employs local quality optimization by concentrating reagents and sensing elements in specific high-density zones at the testing position. This allows the overall strip size to be reduced while maintaining sufficient reagent volume and detection accuracy at the critical measurement location
Solution Approach 2:
The repositioning device acts as a precision intermediary that ensures the test element is accurately positioned relative to the read-head. This precise positioning mechanism compensates for the reduced strip size by maintaining optimal measurement geometry and alignment, thereby preserving detection accuracy despite smaller dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
A system for analyzing the concentration of an analyte in a fluid sample comprises a test strip and a meter. The test strip is capable of being inoculated by the fluid sample. The test strip includes a test element, which contains at least one reagent adapted to cause a reaction when brought into contact with the analyte. The meter includes a read-head, a repositioning device, and a display. The read-head is capable of producing a signal indicative of the reaction between the analyte and the at least one reagent. The display being capable of displaying the analyte concentration. The repositioning device is adapted to move the test strip from a loading position to a testing position. The testing position positions the test element proximate to the read-head.