Single Detector Electronic Assay Apparatus for Multi-Analyte Test Strips
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic assay apparatuses for reading lateral flow test strips are prone to erroneous results due to subjectivity and require complex, costly manufacturing processes for dual test strips, which increase costs and complicate the detection of multiple analytes or varying concentrations.
Innovation Solution
An electronic assay apparatus with three light sources and a single detector, arranged within a fan-shaped region, illuminates and detects light from separate zones on a single test strip, eliminating the need for dual test strips and simplifying the manufacturing process while enabling accurate detection of multiple analytes or concentrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two test strips are used to detect multiple analytes or concentrations, then the detection capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple test zones (first test zone for first analyte, second test zone for second analyte, control zone) onto a single test strip. The electronic assay apparatus uses multiple light sources and a single detector to read all zones sequentially, eliminating the need for multiple separate test strips while maintaining the ability to detect multiple analytes or concentrations simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The single test strip is designed with multiple functional zones that can detect different analytes (e.g., hCG and LH for pregnancy and ovulation) or different concentrations of the same analyte. The electronic assay apparatus is configured with multiple light sources and a single detector that can sequentially read all zones, making the system universal for multiple detection purposes without requiring separate test strips.
2Device complexity
If user interpretation of test results is used, then the apparatus complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to subjectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/subjective human interpretation process with an electronic detection system. The electronic assay apparatus uses light sources to illuminate the test zones and a detector to measure light reflection or transmission, with a microprocessor that automatically compares the measured values to reference values and displays the result. This substitution eliminates subjective human judgment while maintaining simple apparatus operation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple light sources and detectors are used to read multiple zones, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the test strip into multiple distinct zones (first test zone, second test zone, control zone) that can be illuminated and read sequentially. The electronic assay apparatus uses multiple light sources positioned to illuminate different zones and a single detector that reads each zone in sequence. This segmentation allows precise reading of multiple zones without requiring multiple simultaneous detectors, reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic assay apparatus performs periodic action by sequentially illuminating and reading different test zones rather than simultaneously detecting all zones. The microprocessor controls the light sources to illuminate each zone in turn and the detector reads each zone sequentially, comparing results to reference values. This periodic reading approach maintains measurement precision while using a single detector instead of multiple simultaneous detectors.
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 design reduces manufacturing costs, decreases structural complexity, and provides accurate results without the need for additional processing steps, such as sample flow velocity detection, while allowing for precise measurements of analytes using green, blue, or yellow-green light.
Implementation Method 1
The first light detector detects light reflected from the control zone and some of the reference zone and the second light detector detects light reflected from some of the reference zone and the test zone
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention related to an electronic assay apparatus and a testing method thereof. The electronic assay apparatus for determining a result of an assay performed using a test strip comprises three light sources, only one detector and a microprocessor. The three light sources respectively illuminate light incident upon three different zones of the test strip. The detector detects light from the three zones alternately and the distances between the only one detector and the three light sources respectively are almost the same. Further, multiple openings corresponding to the three light sources respectively have the same size and/or shape. The microprocessor compares a calculating result value to only one threshold for showing a result.