Integrated Microfluidic Cartridge for On-Demand Sample-to-Result PCR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic processes for biological samples are cumbersome and inefficient, requiring multiple steps, specialized equipment, and trained personnel, leading to delays and increased costs due to the need for batch processing and sample transportation.
Innovation Solution
An integrated apparatus comprising a microfluidic cartridge and a bench-top system that automates sample preparation, PCR, and detection, using a heat source and detector to process polynucleotide-containing samples, allowing for on-demand analysis and reducing the need for separate steps and specialized equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple separate diagnostic steps are performed using specialized equipment, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate diagnostic functions (sample preparation, PCR amplification, and detection) into a single integrated microfluidic cartridge system. The cartridge integrates reaction chambers, fluidic channels, and detection components, allowing all diagnostic steps to be performed in one device rather than requiring multiple separate specialized equipment pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic cartridge is designed as a universal platform that performs multiple diagnostic functions sequentially within a single device. It can handle sample intake, perform thermal cycling for PCR, and conduct optical detection, making one device capable of replacing multiple specialized instruments.
2Productivity
If batch processing is used for specialist equipment, then productivity is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated microfluidic system enables continuous processing of samples through automated fluidic transport and sequential reaction steps. The microfluidic pumps and valves maintain continuous flow and processing without the interruptions inherent in batch processing, allowing samples to move continuously through preparation, amplification, and detection stages.
3Measurement precision
If samples are transported to specialized locations for analysis, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and loss of substance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the specialized diagnostic functions from centralized laboratory equipment and relocates them into a portable microfluidic cartridge that can be used at the point of care. This extraction eliminates the need to transport samples to specialized locations, as the diagnostic capabilities are now embedded in a device that can be deployed wherever needed.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple manual steps are performed by trained personnel, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic cartridge is designed to perform automated sample processing without requiring manual intervention for critical steps. The integrated system automatically handles fluid transport, thermal cycling, and detection, with the cartridge itself managing the processing sequence, thereby reducing dependence on trained personnel while maintaining precision.
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
Facilitates rapid, on-demand diagnostic results by automating key steps in the analysis of biological samples, reducing the need for batch processing and specialized equipment, thereby decreasing delays and costs while improving efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least one heat source thermally coupled to the cartridge and configured to apply heat to one or more selected regions of the cartridge at one or more selected times
Implementation Method 2
a detector configured to detect presence of the one or more amplified polynucleotides
Data Source
AI summary
This patent application describes an integrated apparatus for processing polynucleotide-containing samples, and for providing a diagnostic result thereon. The apparatus is configured to receive a microfluidic cartridge that contains reagents and a network for processing a sample. Also described are methods of using the apparatus.