The new technique also increases the analytical versatility. For example, multiple reagent additions can be made, flow can be stopped and started, tests can be semi-quantitative , and multiple tests can be performed on one device. All this is done automatically with no other equipment involved. Development equipment is low cost consisting essentially of a PC, CAD software, pen plotter and a drying oven. Development can be rapid because a device can be modified and tested in a few minutes.
Manufacturing cost is low for small or large quantities.
So research is very much interdisciplinary. Traditionally, electronics is closely linked to clinical instrumentation but in these devices, electronics is largely replaced by fluid mechanics. Most of the scientific information resides in patents and within companies, rather than in scientific journals, and may be why academic research into such devices has been slow to catch on. To help in the design and optimisation of these types of devices we have developed several computer programmes which deal with fluid flow and the opto- immunological reactions. We are currently seeking academic and industrial collaborations with a view to investigating new applications, improving scientific understanding, and commercialisation of the technology.