Sample Volume Sensor for Pathogen Detection Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting pathogens in biological fluids through culture-based techniques face challenges in ensuring accurate sample volume measurement, which can affect the reliability of pathogen detection due to variations in sample concentration and volume, potentially leading to false negatives or delayed detection.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize various sensors such as ultrasonic impulse sonar, laser displacement sensing, and capacitive sensors to accurately measure the volume of biological samples in sample containers, providing real-time feedback on sample compliance and adjusting detection algorithms accordingly to optimize pathogen detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple sensor types are used to measure sample volume, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement function into multiple independent sensor modules (ultrasonic sensor, capacitive sensor, optical sensor), each capable of measuring sample volume through different physical principles. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high measurement precision through redundancy and cross-validation while maintaining modular architecture that simplifies individual component design and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple sensor types that can each independently perform sample volume measurement, creating a universal measurement capability that works across different sample types and container configurations. This multi-functionality ensures reliable pathogen detection by providing backup measurement methods and allowing the system to adapt to various measurement challenges.
2Reliability
If real-time sample volume monitoring is implemented, then reliability of pathogen detection is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs sample volume measurements at periodic intervals using ultrasonic, capacitive, or optical sensors rather than continuous monitoring. This periodic measurement approach maintains reliable pathogen detection by checking sample volume compliance at critical stages (initial loading, during incubation, before analysis) while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous real-time monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where sensor measurements of sample volume are continuously monitored and compared against predetermined thresholds. When volume compliance is confirmed, the system can reduce measurement frequency or enter low-power mode, maintaining detection reliability while optimizing energy usage based on actual sample conditions.
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
Ensures reliable and efficient pathogen detection by ensuring sample volume compliance, reducing the risk of false positives/negatives and improving diagnostic accuracy by adjusting detection algorithms based on sample volume data.
Implementation Method 1
A sample volume sensor, separate from or part of the incubation and measurement module, the sensor adapted to measure the sample volume of sample containers
Implementation Method 2
A sample volume sensor, separate from or part of the incubation and measurement module, the sensor adapted to measure the sample volume of sample containers
Implementation Method 3
A sample volume sensor, separate from or part of the incubation and measurement module, the sensor adapted to measure the sample volume of sample containers
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for detecting a pathogen in a sample is provided, the system capable of measuring the volume of a sample in a container through the use of various measurement technologies, thereby ensuring that a user is aware of volumes not meeting specification and/or allowing correction of results to account for the out-of-specification sample.