Universal RDT Reader with Lensless Smartphone Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rapid diagnostic test (RDT) readers face challenges such as limited compatibility with different smartphone models, reliance on external illumination and control systems, and the need for mechanical adaptations for various RDT cassettes, leading to increased costs and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
A universal RDT reader is developed, featuring a wireless, lensless design that accommodates multiple RDT types without mechanical adjustments. It includes a digital camera, LED illumination, and a universal tray, allowing use with various smartphones and tablets, and employs a photo-sensor to wirelessly control the LEDs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional RDT reader is designed to accommodate different smartphone models, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to mechanical adaptations for various cassette types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal reader body with standardized dimensions (110mm x 75mm x 25mm) that can accommodate any smartphone model without mechanical adaptations. The reader uses a single optical path design with the smartphone camera positioned at a fixed distance (30-50mm) from the RDT cassette, eliminating the need for different mechanical components for various smartphone or cassette types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the illumination function from external components and integrates it into the reader body itself. The LED illumination source is built into the reader, positioned to provide uniform lighting across the RDT cassette through the smartphone camera, eliminating dependency on external flash or ambient light.
2Ease of operation
If external illumination and control systems are used, then functionality is improved, but reliability decreases due to external cabling and dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the illumination source, control electronics, and smartphone interface into a single integrated reader unit. The LED illumination is controlled directly through the smartphone's flash trigger signal, eliminating external cabling and separate control systems. The reader body houses all necessary components including the LED driver circuitry and optical elements in a unified design.
3Extent of automation
If a dedicated smartphone is required for the reader, then control capability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the reader to work with any smartphone model without requiring a dedicated device. The standardized reader body accepts any smartphone of appropriate size, and the smartphone's existing camera and flash trigger capabilities are utilized for automated control. This eliminates the need to purchase a separate dedicated smartphone, reducing overall system cost while maintaining full automation capabilities.
4Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical adaptations are made for different RDT cassettes, then versatility is improved, but ease of operation decreases due to adjustment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal cassette holder design within the reader body that accommodates various RDT cassette types without requiring mechanical adjustments. The holder is designed with sufficient dimensional tolerance and flexible positioning to accept different cassette formats while maintaining consistent optical alignment with the smartphone camera.
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 solution provides a cost-effective, reliable, and portable RDT reader that offers trans-visual sensitivity, enabling accurate and efficient analysis of multiple RDT types across different smartphone platforms, while minimizing mechanical complexity and external dependencies.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination component
Implementation Method 2
employs a photo-sensor to wirelessly control the LEDs
Data Source
AI summary
A universal rapid diagnostics test reader is disclosed and described herein that includes a set of control electronics, a digital camera component, an illumination component, a housing component, and a rapid diagnostics test tray, wherein the tray can hold at least one rapid diagnostics test having a shape and a size in a fixed position relative to the digital camera component and the illumination component, and wherein the reader can accommodate more than one different rapid diagnostics test. Methods are also disclosed that include: providing at least one first rapid diagnostics test having a first physical size, first feature and first format; providing at least one second rapid diagnostics test having a second physical size, second feature and second format; inserting the first rapid diagnostics test in a universal rapid diagnostics test reader; analyzing the first rapid diagnostics test using the universal rapid diagnostics test reader; removing the first rapid diagnostics test from the reader; inserting the second rapid diagnostics test in a universal rapid diagnostics test reader without any mechanical adjustments of the reader or without the use of any additional parts or additional inserts; and analyzing the second rapid diagnostics test using the universal rapid diagnostics test reader.