DIGITAL TEST ANALYZER AND RELATED METHODS

Abstract

ABSTRACT The digital test analyzer is designed with multiple sample cabinets connected by capillary tubes containing reagents. It features a reagent control button (111) for directing specific reagents to designated test locations, and grooves with transparent lids for conducting chemical tests. The device includes an indicator for displaying test results and is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery. Borosilicate glass cuvettes store testing reagents, and PTFE rubber capillaries transport these reagents to the grooves. The analyzer is constructed from lab-grade plastic and includes a power ON/OFF button for operational control. The method of using the analyzer involves selecting the reagent control button, adding a sample, and allowing a chemical reaction to occur, with results displayed visually. Reference Fig 1

Specification

Description:DIGITAL TEST ANALYZER AND RELATED METHODS

TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The invention relates to a digital test analyzer designed for efficient and safe chemical testing, featuring integrated sample cabinets, capillary tubes, and a result indicator.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In the realm of chemical analysis, the accuracy and efficiency of testing procedures are paramount. Traditional methods often involve manual handling of reagents and samples, which can lead to errors, contamination, and increased time consumption. The need for more streamlined and automated processes has become increasingly evident, especially in laboratories where high throughput and precision are required. The integration of technology into chemical testing apparatuses aims to address these challenges by minimizing human intervention and enhancing the reliability of test results.

[0003] Moreover, the handling of chemicals poses safety risks, necessitating the development of systems that can mitigate direct contact with hazardous substances. The use of glassware, while common, also presents issues such as fragility and the potential for cross-contamination. As laboratories strive to improve safety standards and operational efficiency, there is a growing demand for innovative solutions that can offer ease of use, portability, and reduced dependency on traditional glassware. These advancements are crucial in facilitating more effective and safer chemical testing environments.
SUMMARY
[0004] In accordance with embodiments, a digital test analyzer is provided, comprising a plurality of sample cabinets joined by capillary tubes containing reagents. The digital test analyzer includes a reagent control button on its front face, configured to allow a specific reagent to move towards a particular test location. It also features a plurality of grooves with transparent lids at the top for performing specific chemical tests on samples. An indicator is configured to display test results, and a chargeable battery powers the device, specifically a rechargeable lithium battery with a capacity of 1200 mAh. The analyzer includes borosilicate glass cuvettes for storing approximately 2 ml of a testing reagent, and thin, flexible capillary tubes made of PTFE rubber material for transporting reagents from the cuvettes to the grooves, with the capillary tubes joining end to end.

[0005] In accordance with other embodiments, the digital test analyzer is made of lab grade plastic material, enhancing its durability and suitability for laboratory environments.

[0006] In yet other embodiments, the digital test analyzer further comprises a power ON/OFF button configured to control power to the device, providing ease of use and energy efficiency.

[0007] In accordance with additional embodiments, the grooves of the digital test analyzer are accessible and transparent, facilitating the conduction of specific chemical tests on samples with ease and precision.

[0008] In other embodiments, the indicator of the digital test analyzer is a visual display, effectively communicating test results to the user in a clear and concise manner.

[0009] In further embodiments, the reagent control button is designed to be user-friendly and externally accessible, allowing users to direct specific reagents to particular test locations with minimal effort.

[0010] In accordance with method embodiments, a method of using the digital test analyzer is provided. The method includes turning on the analyzer, selecting the reagent control button for a specific test, adding the sample to the groove, and pushing the reagent control button to allow the specific reagent to reach the groove via capillary action. A chemical reaction occurs between the sample and the reagent, and the result is displayed on the indicator.

[0011] In additional method embodiments, the result of the chemical reaction is a color reaction, providing a visual indication of the test outcome.

[0012] In yet other method embodiments, the method further comprises switching off the digital test analyzer using the power ON/OFF button after displaying the result, ensuring energy conservation and device longevity.

[0013] In further method embodiments, the indicator is a visual display for communicating the result of the chemical reaction, ensuring that users receive clear and immediate feedback on the test results.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates digital test analyzer (100)
[0015] FIG. 2 illustrates, in a flowchart, operations for automating chemical testing using a digital test analyzer.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] The digital test analyzer (100) is a device designed for chemical analysis, featuring a compact and efficient setup for conducting tests. This is illustrated in Fig 1. The composition of the analyzer includes several integral components that contribute to its functionality. The reagent sample cabinets (111) are connected by capillary tubes (120) containing reagents, facilitating the analysis process. These capillary tubes (120), constructed from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rubber material, efficiently transport reagents from borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) to the testing grooves (140). The grooves (140), equipped with transparent lids (150), serve as the test location where the chemical reaction between the sample and the reagent occurs. A reagent control button (130), located at the front face of the analyzer, allows for precise control over the movement of reagents, ensuring they reach the correct test location. The results of the chemical reaction are displayed on an indicator (160), which provides a visual representation of the test outcomes. The device is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery (170), offering both portability and convenience. Constructed from lab-grade plastic material, the analyzer is lightweight and easy to handle, minimizing direct contact with chemicals and reducing the need for glassware, thereby decreasing the risk of cross-contamination.

[0017] The borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) are used for storing approximately 2 ml of a testing reagent, ensuring that the reagents are readily available for testing purposes. The cuvettes (180) are strategically positioned within the digital test analyzer (100) to facilitate easy access and efficient reagent management. The use of borosilicate glass provides durability and chemical resistance, making it suitable for handling various reagents. The capillary tubes (120), made of PTFE rubber material, are thin and flexible, joining end to end from the borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) to the testing grooves (140). This design facilitates the efficient movement of reagents through capillary action, ensuring that the reagents reach the testing grooves (140) in a timely manner. The integration of the cuvettes (180) and capillary tubes (120) is essential for the functionality of the digital test analyzer (100), as they work together to ensure that the reagents are delivered to the testing grooves (140) accurately and efficiently.

[0018] The power ON/OFF button (200) is configured to control power to the digital test analyzer (100), allowing users to manage the device's power state effectively. This control is particularly useful in scenarios where the device is used intermittently, as it prevents unnecessary power drain. The power management system accommodates both battery and direct AC operation, providing flexibility in how the device is powered. This dual power capability enhances the device's usability in various settings, allowing it to function in environments where direct AC power is available or where battery operation is preferred.

[0019] The flowchart in FIG. 2 illustrates a method for operating the digital test analyzer (100). Initially, the device is activated by engaging the power ON/OFF button (200), which controls the power supply to the apparatus. This activation initiates the operational readiness of the device, allowing subsequent actions to be performed. The apparatus, constructed from lab-grade plastic material, houses various components for conducting chemical tests. The power supply is facilitated by a rechargeable lithium battery (170) with a capacity of 1200 mAh, ensuring the device is adequately powered for its use. The activation of the digital test analyzer (100) sets the stage for selecting reagents and conducting tests, as outlined in subsequent steps.

[0020] The process involves selecting the reagent control button (130) for a test, which is configured to allow a reagent to move towards a test location. The reagent control button (130) is externally accessible and user-friendly, facilitating the direction of the reagent to the desired test location. The selection of the reagent control button (130) serves the purpose of directing the reagent flow, which is essential for the subsequent chemical testing process. The reagent is directed to the test location through capillary tubes (120) made of PTFE rubber material, ensuring the efficient transport of reagents. The capillary tubes (120) join end to end from the borosilicate glass cuvettes (180), where the reagents are stored, to the grooves (140) where the chemical test is performed.

[0021] In the next step, a sample is added to the groove (140), a component of the digital test analyzer (100). The groove (140), designed with transparent lids (150), serves as the test location where the chemical test of the sample is conducted. The sample, once added to the groove (140), is prepared for interaction with a reagent. This interaction is facilitated by the reagent control button (130), which allows the reagent to move towards the groove (140) through capillary tubes (120). The groove (140), being accessible and transparent, allows for the observation of the chemical reaction that occurs between the sample and the reagent.

[0022] The process continues with the action of pushing the reagent control button (130) to facilitate the movement of a reagent towards the testing groove (140). This is achieved through the capillary action facilitated by the capillary tubes (120). The reagent control button (130), configured to allow a reagent to move towards a test location, is externally accessible and user-friendly. The capillary tubes (120), made of PTFE rubber material, transport the reagents from the borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) to the grooves (140), ensuring the reagent reaches the intended location. This step sets up the conditions necessary for the subsequent chemical reaction between the sample and the reagent, which occurs in the testing groove (140).

[0023] A chemical reaction occurs between the sample and the reagent, facilitated by the design of the digital test analyzer (100). The sample and reagent are introduced into the testing groove (140), where the reaction takes place. The grooves (140), designed to perform chemical tests, provide an environment conducive to the reaction. The occurrence of the chemical reaction is part of the testing process, as it leads to the generation of a result that can be displayed on the indicator (160). The indicator (160), configured to display test results, provides a visual representation of the outcome of the chemical reaction.

[0024] Finally, the process of switching off the device is initiated by utilizing the power ON/OFF button (200). This is performed after the test results have been displayed on the indicator (160). The power ON/OFF button (200), configured to control the power supply to the digital test analyzer (100), is engaged to cease the operation of the device. This step ensures the longevity and reliability of the digital test analyzer (100), as it allows for the controlled shutdown of the device, preventing unnecessary power consumption and potential wear on the device's components.

[0025] Referring to Fig. 2, there is illustrated method 100 for using the digital test analyzer (100). The method comprises:
at step 102, method 100 includes turning on the digital test analyzer (100) by pressing the power ON/OFF button (200), which activates the system and prepares it for use.

at step 104, method 100 includes selecting the appropriate reagent by pressing the reagent control button (130), allowing the user to control the reagent that will be used for the specific test.

at step 106, method 100 includes the user adding the sample to the groove (140), which is the designated location where the chemical reaction will take place.

at step 108, method 100 includes pressing the reagent control button (130) to transport the selected reagent from the sample cabinets (111) to the groove (140) via capillary tubes (120), using capillary action to move the reagent.

at step 110, method 100 includes allowing a chemical reaction to occur between the sample and the reagent within the groove (140), with the transparent lids (150) allowing the user to observe the reaction.

at step 112, method 100 includes displaying the result of the chemical reaction on the indicator (160), which provides a visual representation of the test outcome.

at step 114, method 100 includes switching off the digital test analyzer (100) by pressing the power on/off button (200), conserving battery life and preparing the device for future use.

, Claims:CLAIMS
What is claimed is:
1. A digital test analyzer (100), comprising:
a plurality of sample cabinets (111) joined by capillary tubes (120) containing reagents;
a reagent control button (130) provided at a front face of the digital test analyzer (100), the reagent control button (130) configured to allow a specific reagent to move towards a particular test location;
a plurality of grooves (140) with transparent lids (150) provided at a top of the digital test analyzer (100) for performing a specific chemical test of a sample;
an indicator (160) configured to display test results;
a chargeable battery (170) configured to power the digital test analyzer (100), wherein the chargeable battery (170) is a rechargeable lithium battery with a capacity of 1200 mAh;
a plurality of borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) for storing approximately 2 ml of a testing reagent; and
a plurality of thin and flexible capillary tubes (120) made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) rubber material for transporting the reagents from the borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) to the grooves (140), wherein the capillary tubes (120) join end to end from the borosilicate glass cuvettes (180) to the grooves (140).

2. The digital test analyzer (100) of claim 1, wherein the digital test analyzer (100) is made of a lab grade plastic material.

3. The digital test analyzer (100) of claim 1, further comprising a power ON/OFF button (200) configured to control power to the digital test analyzer (100).

4. The digital test analyzer (100) of claim 1, wherein the grooves (140) are accessible and transparent for conducting the specific chemical test on the sample.

5. The digital test analyzer (100) of claim 1, wherein the indicator (160) is a visual display for communicating the test results.

6. The digital test analyzer (100) of claim 1, wherein the reagent control button (130) is user-friendly and externally accessible for directing the specific reagent to the particular test location.

7. A method of using the digital test analyzer (100) of claim 1, the method comprising:
turning on the digital test analyzer (100);
selecting the reagent control button (130) for a specific test;
adding the sample to the groove (140);
pushing the reagent control button (130) to allow the specific reagent to reach the groove (140) via capillary action through the capillary tubes (120);
allowing a chemical reaction to occur between the sample and the specific reagent; and
displaying a result of the chemical reaction on the indicator (160).

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the result of the chemical reaction is a color reaction.

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising switching off the digital test analyzer (100) using the power ON/OFF button (200) after displaying the result.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the indicator (160) is a visual display for communicating the result of the chemical reaction.

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