Test Device Segmentation for Multi-Analyte Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing kits for analyzing biological samples using thin-layer chromatography are limited in their ability to detect multiple analytes simultaneously and can cause irritation or damage to mucous membranes during sample collection.

Innovation Solution

A redesigned kit with a test device and container configuration that allows for multiple test strips to analyze multiple analytes and incorporates a sample collection element that minimizes contact with mucous membranes, using a cylindrical or hollow cylinder design to prevent irritation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single test strip is used in the test device, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the versatility to detect multiple analytes simultaneously is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to detect multiple analytesVSAvoidtest device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The test device is segmented to accommodate multiple test strips, each designed to detect different analytes. The housing contains separate compartments or mounting positions for multiple test strips, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple analytes in a single sample application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The test device housing is designed as a universal platform that can hold and support multiple different types of test strips. The sample application mechanism and buffer fluid delivery system are configured to serve all test strips simultaneously, enabling the device to perform multiple analytical functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If a cone-shaped rod end is used to pierce the membrane, then the productivity of sample collection is improved with easy membrane penetration, but harmful factors increase due to potential mucous membrane irritation or damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample collection efficiencyVSAvoidmucous membrane irritation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The rod tip geometry is modified to have a flattened or rounded end surface instead of a sharp cone. This local change in geometry at the contact point with the membrane maintains sufficient piercing capability while distributing the force over a larger area, preventing concentration of stress that would cause tissue damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The design converts the potentially harmful sharp cone into a beneficial flattened surface that provides both membrane penetration capability and safety. The flat end surface allows controlled piercing through the membrane while the distributed contact area prevents damage to underlying tissues, turning a harmful feature into a safe one.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 and accurate detection of multiple analytes in a single sample without causing mucous membrane irritation, improving the versatility and safety of the analysis process.

Implementation Method 1

Chromatography is a physico-chemical method for the analysis of the substances based on the distribution of the substance components between two phases—mobile and stationary ones

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectChromatography: Chromatography

Implementation Method 2

In TLC method, a stationary solid phase (sorbent) is applied in a thin layer on a base, such as a plate or a strip

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThin-layer chromatography: Chromatography

Implementation Method 3

TLC uses capillary forces that occur when the so-called starting edge of the plate or the strip is immersed into the solvent containing the substance to be analyzed. Due to capillary forces, the solvent containing the substance to be analyzed moves from the starting edge of the plate or the strip into the volume of the sorbent on the plate or the strip and transports the substance components at different rates

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCapillary action: Capillary Action

Implementation Method 4

One of the subtypes of TLC is immunochromatographic analysis. Immunochromatographic analysis (in the literature it is abbreviated as ICA, is also referred to as 'Lateral flow test') also relates to immunochemical analysis. ICA is based on the principle of the thin-layer chromatography, and it uses the reaction between the antigen and the corresponding antibody

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImmunochromatographic analysis:

Data Source

PatentUS20240226874A1A kit for analysis of a material sample for one or more analytes (variants)

Publication Date: 2024.07.11 ME & LABA SL

AI summary

The disclosure relates to the means for conducting a rapid analysis of biological samples using chromatographic analysis that can be applied in medicine, veterinary medicine, and food quality control. Provided a kit for analysis of a material sample for one or more analytes comprising a test device for receiving the material sample and for displaying the result of the analysis of the material sample, and a container for storing a buffer fluid required for the analysis of the material sample. The disclosure enables rapid and easy detection of the multiple analytes in the material sample, and prevention of irritation or trauma of the mucous membranes when collecting the material.