Retail Blood Diagnostics via Photonic Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
The rising costs of healthcare due to regulatory burdens and the need for reduced professional intervention in medical diagnostics have led to a decrease in individualized care and access to medical attention, with existing diagnostic methods requiring complex equipment and skilled personnel, making them costly and inaccessible.
Innovation Solution
A finger stick method for collecting whole blood samples, which are then analyzed using photonic sensors and reactants that respond to serum constituents, providing a low-cost, user-friendly diagnostic solution accessible through store kiosks or cell phones, eliminating the need for phlebotomists and reducing costs by simplifying sample collection, processing, and billing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional diagnostic methods are used, then measurement precision is maintained, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential diagnostic function from complex hospital-based equipment and isolates it into a simple photonic sensor that can be deployed in retail settings. By taking out only the critical measurement capability and removing unnecessary complexity, the system achieves accurate diagnostics without requiring sophisticated equipment or specialized facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of traditional diagnostic capabilities using photonic sensors that replicate the essential measurement function without needing the full complexity of hospital laboratory equipment. This copying approach allows diagnostic functions to be performed in accessible retail environments while maintaining measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If traditional diagnostic methods are used, then measurement precision is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to skilled personnel requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables individuals to perform their own diagnostic testing through simple fingerstick blood collection and application to the test strip. The system is designed to be self-operating with automated photonic sensing and digital display of results, eliminating the need for phlebotomists or other skilled personnel while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual laboratory analysis procedures with automated photonic sensing technology. The optical detection system automatically measures serum constituents and converts them into digital readings, substituting complex mechanical and manual operations with automated optical-electronic systems that are easy to operate.
3Reliability
If traditional diagnostic methods are used, then reliability is maintained, but loss of time increases due to professional intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary diagnostic actions directly at the point of care through retail store kiosks, eliminating the need for patients to travel to hospitals or laboratories. By bringing the diagnostic capability to where the patient already is, the system reduces access time while maintaining reliability through automated consistent measurement procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent skips the intermediate steps of professional intervention, sample transport, and laboratory scheduling by implementing direct-on-site testing. The fingerstick sample is immediately analyzed by the photonic sensor, and results are instantly displayed, rushing through the diagnostic process in minutes rather than days.
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
This approach enables individuals to manage their own healthcare by providing affordable, accessible diagnostics, reducing financial burdens and the need for skilled personnel, while allowing for quick and accurate health assessments, including parasite detection, through a simplified and cost-effective system.
Implementation Method 1
The reactants are known in the art and respond to serum constituents in a predictable manner. In one embodiment, the response is a colorimetric change. One or more photonic sensors distinguish the response
Data Source
AI summary
Health care costs must be extremely lowered, and the business manner by which it is distributed simplified for the average person. A business method is described that allows the average person to obtain their own blood tests while shopping at a local store. Diagnostics for cancer, heart disease, infection, liver disease, kidney disease, hormonal imbalance, and many other maladies can be ascertained.