Integrated Sample Concentration and Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing dilute liquid samples are cumbersome and prone to contamination, requiring multiple steps and separate devices for concentration and detection, which limits sensitivity and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that integrates sample concentration and detection within a single device, allowing for the processing of large sample volumes without exposing the sample to ambiance, thereby simplifying the process and reducing contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate devices and steps are used for sample concentration and detection, then the processing can be performed with existing methods, but the process becomes cumbersome and prone to contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate functions (filtration/concentration, transfer, and detection/assay) into a single integrated device. The filter element is positioned within the assay device such that concentrated sample is transferred directly to the detection chamber without external manipulation, eliminating contamination risks associated with multiple separate devices and manual transfer steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions within a single system: it filters/concentrates the sample, transfers the concentrated sample, and enables detection/assay. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of separate devices needed while maintaining or improving reliability by minimizing exposure to ambient contamination.
2Measurement precision
If sample is transferred between devices, then concentration and detection can be performed separately, but sensitivity and accuracy are limited due to contamination and loss
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is integrated directly within the assay device, creating a unified system where sample concentration and detection occur in close proximity. This integration eliminates transfer steps that cause sample loss and contamination, thereby improving detection accuracy and sensitivity while maintaining manageable device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated filter element acts as an intermediary that directly feeds concentrated sample into the detection chamber without external intervention. This intermediary structure ensures seamless transition from concentration to detection, preventing contamination and sample loss that would otherwise reduce measurement precision.
3Productivity
If filtration and assay are performed in the same device, then transfer steps are eliminated, but spatial separation of functions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges filtration and assay functions into a single integrated unit where the filter element is positioned within the assay device. This allows concentrated sample to be transferred directly to the detection chamber without removal from the device, eliminating transfer steps and improving processing efficiency while maintaining organized functional separation through careful spatial arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
While integrating functions, the device maintains segmentation of operational zones: the filter element occupies a specific region for concentration, and the detection chamber occupies another region for assay. This spatial segmentation within the integrated device allows efficient processing while keeping functional areas distinct and manageable.
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 enhances assay sensitivity and accuracy by eliminating the need for transfer steps and spatially separating filtration and assay, allowing for the removal of undesired sample portions and improving the detection of analytes in dilute liquid samples.
Implementation Method 1
filtering the sample to form a concentrated sample
Implementation Method 2
moving the concentrated sample in a fluid path to a detection chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for processing samples. The system can include a loading chamber, a detection chamber positioned in fluid communication with the loading chamber, and a fluid path defined at least partially by the loading chamber and the detection chamber. The system can further include a filter positioned such that at least one of its inlet and its outlet is positioned in the fluid path. The method can include positioning a sample in the loading chamber, filtering the sample in the fluid path to form a concentrated sample and a filtrate, removing the filtrate from the fluid path at a location upstream of the detection chamber, moving at least a portion of the concentrated sample in the fluid path to the detection chamber, and analyzing at least a portion of the concentrated sample in the detection chamber for an analyte of interest.