Testing Module Flow Path Block Member Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional testing modules are time-consuming and prone to measurement errors due to excess test sample adhering to sampling members, leading to inaccurate results.

Innovation Solution

A testing module with a flow path, storage chamber, carrier, block member, and sampling assembly that allows controlled fluid flow and mixing with the test sample, preventing excess sample from contaminating the reactive reagent and improving measurement accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional mixing chamber is used to mix fluid and test sample, then the mixing function is achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and complex to operate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidtime-consuming
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device segments the mixing process into two distinct locations: (1) preliminary mixing occurs in the sampling member where test sample is collected and initially mixed with fluid, and (2) final mixing occurs in the mixing chamber. This segmentation eliminates the need for manual intervention and reduces operational complexity while maintaining effective mixing functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sampling member performs preliminary mixing of the test sample with fluid before the mixture enters the main mixing chamber. This preliminary action prepares the sample in advance, reducing the workload and time required for subsequent mixing operations in the mixing chamber.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If excess test sample adheres to the sampling member surface, then complete sample collection is achieved, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to sample loss

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidexcess test sample
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The device extracts excess test sample from the sampling member surface using a cleaning member. The cleaning member removes adhered sample and directs it into the mixing chamber, preventing sample loss and ensuring complete sample utilization for measurement, thereby improving measurement accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning member acts as an intermediary between the sampling member and the mixing chamber. It transfers excess sample from the sampling member surface to the mixing chamber, ensuring that no sample is wasted and all collected sample is utilized for the measurement process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If excess test sample on sampling member is not removed, then sampling is complete, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to changes in specimen amount

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement accuracyVSAvoidamount of specimen
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The cleaning member extracts excess test sample from the sampling member surface and directs it into the mixing chamber. This ensures that the total amount of specimen used for measurement is controlled and accurate, preventing measurement errors caused by unintended sample quantity variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning mechanism provides feedback control for sample quantity. By removing excess sample from the sampling member surface and directing it to the mixing chamber, the system ensures that the correct amount of sample is transferred for measurement, maintaining precise control over specimen quantity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

The module enables quick operation and precise control of the test sample, reducing measurement errors and enhancing testing efficiency by ensuring accurate mixing and dilution of the sample before measurement.

Implementation Method 1

The puncturing structure is configured to penetrate the block member. The first state refers to the block member being intact without breakage, and the second state refers to an opening being formed on the block member after the sampling assembly is connected to the carrier.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

At least a portion of the fluid flows into the downstream of the flow path via the sampling member and mixes with the test sample in the sampling member.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid flow mixing:

Implementation Method 3

The sampling member is used to collect the test sample. A passage is formed in the sampling member, and the test sample is disposed in the passage.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCapillary action: Capillary Action

Implementation Method 4

The flow path is used to guide the flow of a fluid. The storage chamber is fluidly connected to an upstream of the flow path.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure differential: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentEP2982436B1Testing module for testing a sample
Publication Date: 2020.09.09 SKYLA CORP HSINCHU SCI PARK BRANCH
  • EP2982436B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2982436B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2982436B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

The disclosure provides a testing module including a carrier, a block member, and a sampling assembly. A flow path connects a storage chamber to a mixing chamber to guide the flow of a fluid. The block member is formed in the flow path to block the fluid from flowing from the storage chamber to the mixing chamber before the connection of the sampling assembly. When the sampling assembly which contains a test sample is connected to the carrier, the fluid mixes with the test sample and flows to the mixing chamber.