Swab Testing Device with Channel Selector for Eluate Fractionation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current swab testing processes are time and labor intensive, requiring multiple discrete stages and posing exposure risks due to infectious analytes, as they involve transferring partially processed samples between different equipment.
Innovation Solution
A testing device with a swab chamber, elution source, discard channel, analysis channel, and channel selector that selectively directs eluate fractions for efficient processing and analysis within a single apparatus, allowing for automated multi-stage analysis of swab samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple discrete stages are used for swab testing, then each stage can be performed with specialized equipment, but the process becomes time and labor intensive requiring technician transfer between equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete testing stages (elution, lysis, PCR amplification, and detection) into a single integrated device. The elution source, swab chamber, analysis channel with lysing section, and detection section are merged into one continuous fluidic pathway, eliminating the need for technician transfer between separate equipment and automating the entire process.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions within a single apparatus: it elutes the swab sample, lyse the viral particles, amplify the nucleic acid via PCR, and detect the amplification signal. This multi-functional design reduces testing time while maintaining the specialized capabilities needed for each stage.
2Reliability
If multiple discrete stages are used for swab testing, then each stage can be optimized independently, but labor intensity increases due to technician transfer requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges all testing stages into one automated device with continuous fluidic flow. The eluate flows automatically from the swab chamber through the lysing section and PCR amplification region to the detection section, eliminating manual transfer operations and reducing labor intensity while preserving testing quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service through automated fluidic flow control. The eluate moves automatically through each processing stage via capillary action or pressure-driven flow, eliminating the need for technician intervention in sample transfer operations.
3Reliability
If discrete equipment is used for each testing stage, then specialized processing can be achieved, but exposure risk increases where the analyte is infectious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines all processing stages within a single sealed device, creating a closed system that contains the infectious analyte throughout the entire testing process. The eluate flows continuously through enclosed channels from elution to detection without exposure to the external environment, minimizing technician exposure risk while maintaining processing effectiveness.
4Quantity of substance
If the entire eluate is used for analysis, then all sample information is captured, but initial washing fractions may contaminate the analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the eluate flow into distinct fractions using a channel selector. The initial washing fractions are directed to a discard channel, while subsequent fractions containing the target analyte are directed to the analysis channel. This segmentation purifies the analysis sample while still utilizing the full eluate volume for complete sample processing.
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 efficient and safe analysis of swab samples by automating at least two stages of the testing process, reducing labor and minimizing exposure risks through selective eluate fraction processing and integration of lysing and amplification sections within a disposable cartridge.
Implementation Method 1
the eluent is a liquid that interacts with the swab sample to produce an eluate indicative of a property of the swab sample
Implementation Method 2
the analysis channel includes a hydrophobic surface
Data Source
AI summary
Testing devices for testing a swab sample, the devices including a swab chamber configured to receive the swab sample; an elution source configured to supply an eluent to the swab chamber, wherein the eluent is a liquid that interacts with the swab sample to produce an eluate indicative of a property of the swab sample; a discard channel configured to receive a first portion of the eluate from the swab chamber to be discarded; an analysis channel configured to receive a second portion of the eluate from the swab chamber to be processed; and a channel selector configured to selectively direct the first portion into the discard channel and the second portion into the analysis channel.