Integrated Sample Processing Apparatus for Microorganism Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for processing samples to detect microorganisms are laborious and time-consuming, lacking efficient devices for simultaneous processing of multiple samples, which complicates the removal of interfering materials and concentration of analytes.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a sample-receiving component with a filter element and a filtrate-receiving component with an analyte-capture element, allowing for the simultaneous processing and concentration of analytes from multiple samples in a single step, facilitated by a flow path that enables fluid passage and contact with the analyte-capture element, and optionally utilizing negative pressure for sample processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional pre-treatment methods are used to remove interfering material and concentrate analytes, then the detection accuracy is improved, but the processing time increases and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the filtration function (removing interfering material) and the analyte capture function (concentrating target substances) into a single integrated unit. The filter element and analyte capture element are positioned in sequence within the same housing, allowing both functions to be performed simultaneously in one操作步骤, eliminating the need for separate filtration and concentration steps required by traditional methods
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs multiple functions (filtration, concentration, and preparation for detection) within a single apparatus. The filter element removes interfering particles while the analyte capture element simultaneously concentrates the target analytes, creating a multi-functional device that replaces multiple separate pre-treatment operations
2Reliability
If multiple samples are processed sequentially using traditional methods, then each sample receives adequate pre-treatment, but the total processing time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with multiple filter elements and analyte capture elements arranged in parallel within the same housing. Each sample can be directed to its own filter-analyte capture pair, allowing simultaneous processing of multiple samples while maintaining the same pre-treatment quality as single-sample processing. The segmented design enables parallel operation without compromising individual sample treatment
3Measurement precision
If multiple pre-treatment steps are performed separately, then each step can be optimized, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines filtration and analyte capture into a single integrated flow path. The filtered liquid automatically flows from the filter element to the analyte capture element without requiring manual transfer or intermediate containers, reducing the number of operational steps while maintaining analyte concentration efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a through-flow design where the filtrate serves as the intermediary medium that automatically transports analytes from the filter element to the analyte capture element. This eliminates the need for manual handling and reduces operational complexity while ensuring complete transfer of concentrated analytes
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
The apparatus effectively reduces the amount of interfering material, concentrates analytes, and allows for simultaneous processing of multiple samples, simplifying the detection of microorganisms by minimizing handling and contamination risks, and enabling efficient transfer of concentrated analytes for further analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a filter element disposed in the first chamber between the first and second openings
Implementation Method 2
an analyte-capture element... facilitating contact between a liquid sample and the analyte-capture element
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~2C
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A first apparatus (100) for processing a liquid sample is disclosed. The apparatus (100) includes a sample-receiving (120), a filtrate-receiving component (150), and an analyte-capture element (170). The apparatus (100) forms a liquid flow path through which the sample passes, thereby causing the analyte-capture element (170) to capture an analyte, if present. A method is disclosed whereby a liquid sample is passed through the first (100) apparatus and the analyte-capture element (170) is easily separated from the apparatus for further processing and detection of the analyte. A structurally-related second apparatus (200) for processing a plurality of liquid samples, and a corresponding method of use, also is disclosed.