Wireless HEMT Pathogen Sensor for Rapid On-Site Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting aquatic pathogens like Perkinsus marinus are slow, expensive, and impractical for field use due to the need for specialized equipment, expertise, and lengthy sample transportation, making them unsuitable for immediate and on-site monitoring in aquaculture and ornamental industries.
Innovation Solution
Field-deployable electronic biological sensors using functionalized high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) that can be used for on-site detection of marine pathogens, such as Perkinsus marinus, with a portable power supply and wireless transmission capabilities, allowing for immediate results and reducing the need for laboratory disposables and infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional pathogen detection methods (FTM assay, PCR) are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but detection time increases significantly and field deployment becomes impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/biological detection systems (FTM assay requiring incubation, PCR requiring multiple thermal cycling steps) with an electronic field-effect transistor sensor system that detects pathogens through electrical signal changes caused by antigen-antibody binding, enabling rapid results without complex mechanical processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and isolates the specific detection function from complex laboratory procedures by using functionalized transistors that directly bind to target pathogens in the sample, eliminating the need for sample transportation, extensive preparation, and multiple processing steps required by traditional methods
2Reliability
If traditional pathogen detection methods are used, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal sensor platform using field-effect transistors that can be functionalized with different antibodies to detect various pathogens, replacing multiple specialized laboratory systems with a single versatile device that maintains reliability across different detection applications
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system performs self-diagnosis and signal processing, with the transistor automatically detecting antigen binding through changes in its electrical characteristics, eliminating the need for complex external instrumentation, specialized personnel, and elaborate laboratory infrastructure
3Measurement precision
If traditional pathogen detection methods are used, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but cost increases due to specialized equipment and reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive transistor sensors that can be mass-produced using standard semiconductor fabrication techniques, replacing costly specialized laboratory equipment and disposable reagents with affordable, easily manufacturable electronic components that maintain diagnostic accuracy
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 HEMT sensors provide rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective on-site detection of aquatic pathogens, eliminating delays and costs associated with traditional methods, enabling immediate assessment and reducing the need for laboratory resources and regulatory oversight.
Implementation Method 1
The HEMT sensors can be used for the on-site detection of marine pathogens such as Perkinsus marinus
Implementation Method 2
functionalized high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) that can be used for on-site detection
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present Invention provide antibody functionalized high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) devices for marine or freshwater pathogen sensing. In one embodiment, the marine pathogen can be Perkinsus marinus. A sensing unit can include a wireless transmitter fabricated on the HEMT. The sensing unit allows testing in areas without direct access to electrical outlets and can send the testing results to a central location using the wireless transmitter. According to embodiments, results of testing can be achieved within seconds.