Flow Evaluation of a Multifaceted Urine Analyzer Through Ansys Simulations and Experimental Photometry

This study presents the development and validation of the Physical, Chemical, and Biological Dynamics Analyzer (PCODA), a multiscale, multimodal urine analyzer designed for point-of-care diagnostics. The PCODA device integrates a fluidic manifold that precisely mixes urine and reagent solutions to facilitate biomarker detection. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models using ANSYS Fluent® were developed to simulate fluid flow and mixing dynamics within the manifold, focusing on optimizing reagent injection and mixing efficiency. The simulations employed a multiphase Volume of Fluid (VOF) model and species transport to predict the diffusion and interaction of urine and reagent. Experimental validation was performed using a custom-built photometry system that monitors mixing dynamics in real-time by measuring the absorbance of a dyed reagent solution. The experimental results showed good agreement with the CFD simulations, confirming the accuracy of the model in predicting flow rates and mixing behavior. This combined computational and experimental approach provides valuable insights for design optimization and operational parameter refinement of the PCODA device. The work demonstrates a systematic process for integrating CFD modeling with experimental testing to advance the development of biomedical diagnostic devices.