Swab Device with Embedded Test Element for Rapid Biological Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample testing techniques lack convenience and effectiveness for immediate, in-office or home use, particularly in providing clear and reliable results for biological samples without requiring specialized equipment or expertise.
Innovation Solution
A swab device with an embedded test element, such as an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or lateral flow assay (LFA) test element, that collects biological samples and uses gold nanoparticles to indicate the presence of target analytes through a control line and test line, providing a visual and potentially thermal indication of test results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sample testing techniques are used, then testing can be performed in laboratories with specialized equipment, but the process lacks convenience for immediate in-office or home use and requires specialized equipment and expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sample collection swab and the test element into a single integrated device. The test element is embedded within the swab handle, merging two previously separate functions (sampling and testing) into one unified tool that can be used immediately without additional equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform testing autonomously without requiring specialized equipment or expert operation. The embedded test element automatically detects analytes in the collected sample and provides visual results through color changes, enabling users to conduct tests themselves without laboratory infrastructure
2Measurement precision
If traditional testing methods are used, then comprehensive analysis can be performed, but clear and reliable results cannot be obtained without specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The test element utilizes colorimetric detection where gold nanoparticles change color based on the presence and concentration of target analytes. The control line and test line produce distinct color patterns that provide clear visual indication of test results, enabling reliable interpretation without specialized instrumentation
Solution Approach 2:
The device detects analyte presence and concentration through changes in optical properties (color intensity and pattern) of the test element. These parameter changes provide measurable, reliable results that can be interpreted visually, achieving measurement precision without requiring complex laboratory equipment
3Loss of time
If rapid testing is implemented, then immediate results can be provided, but the ability to quantify analyte presence may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The intensity and pattern of color changes in the test element provide both qualitative (positive/negative) and quantitative (analyte concentration) information simultaneously. The visual colorimetric response occurs rapidly while maintaining the ability to assess analyte levels, eliminating the trade-off between speed and quantification capability
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
Enables rapid, user-friendly, and accurate testing of biological samples with minimal equipment, allowing for immediate interpretation of results, including the ability to differentiate between positive and negative test outcomes and quantify analyte presence.
Implementation Method 1
uses gold nanoparticles to indicate the presence of target analytes through a control line and test line, providing a visual and potentially thermal indication of test results
Implementation Method 2
providing a visual and potentially thermal indication of test results
Data Source
AI summary
A swab device, according to an example, includes a handle shaft, and a collection element positioned at a distal end of the handle shaft to collect a biological sample. The swab device includes an embedded test element to perform a test on the collected sample and provide an indication of a result of the test.