Variable-Thickness Assay Plates for Whole-Blood Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biological and chemical assays face challenges in accurately measuring multiple analytes in a sample with different thicknesses without dilution, particularly in whole blood analysis, where red blood cells and white blood cells require different thicknesses for precise measurement.
Innovation Solution
A device and method using a QMAX card with varying spacer heights to create different sample thicknesses on the same plate, allowing for precise measurement of red blood cells and white blood cells without dilution, by sandwiching a sample between two plates with different spacing heights at different areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single uniform sample thickness is used on the entire plate, then the assay structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot simultaneously optimize measurements for different analyte types (e.g., red blood cells vs. white blood cells)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different sample thicknesses in different regions of the same plate. The first region has a first sample thickness optimized for measuring first analytes (e.g., red blood cells), while the second region has a second sample thickness optimized for measuring second analytes (e.g., white blood cells). This allows the plate to be adapted for multiple analyte types without requiring separate plates for each measurement.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sample thicknesses are created on the same plate using varying spacer heights, then measurement accuracy for different analytes is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the spacer height parameter across different regions of the plate. The first region uses spacers with a first height to create the first sample thickness, while the second region uses spacers with a second height to create the second sample thickness. This parameter variation enables optimized measurement conditions for different analytes while maintaining manufacturability through standard fabrication techniques.
3Productivity
If the plate is designed with different spacer heights at different areas, then the dynamic range and linearity range of the assay are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the plate into multiple distinct regions, each with its own optimized sample thickness. The first region is dedicated to measuring first analytes with a first sample thickness, while the second region is dedicated to measuring second analytes with a second sample thickness. This segmentation allows each region to be optimized for its specific analyte type, improving overall assay efficiency and dynamic range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by creating a multi-functional plate that can measure different types of analytes simultaneously. The same plate structure serves multiple purposes: the first region measures first analytes (e.g., red blood cell parameters) while the second region measures second analytes (e.g., white blood cell parameters). This multi-functionality improves productivity by eliminating the need for separate plates for different analyte measurements.
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
Improves assay performance by enhancing measurement accuracy, dynamic range, and efficiency, while reducing Hook effects, and achieving precise control over sample thickness with sub-micron precision.
Implementation Method 1
the spacers and the surface of the sample contact areas are configured to make a first spacing height and a second spacing height different from each other
Implementation Method 2
the at least one imager is configured to image the samples in the first and second sample contact areas, and to measure an optical signal related to the analyte
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect of the present invention is to provide the device and methods for performing an assay that uses the multiplexing of sample thicknesses on the same plate. The sample thickness multiplexing can offer many information that is unavailable in using a single sample thickness.