Manufacturing process for sample initiated assay device

A quantitative test device is manufactured using a feedback loop which allows one to modify continuously the dimensions of a reading scale printed on the device. The quantitative test device is manufactured by attaching the critical component of a two-component dye system to minute particles such as microcrystalline cellulose, silica, or latex, which particles are suspended in a solution of a polymeric binder. Additional non-immobilized components of the reaction system of the test device are optionally added to the polymer solution. The suspension of dyed particles in polymer solution is applied to a fabric as a coating, using conventional coating machines, to obtain a homogeneous distribution of immobilized dye throughout the fabric. The device includes a measurement zone which is made from a film support made of a material having a lower melting point than the filter cloth fabric used in the measurement zone was used. By using a lower melting point material for the support film, impulse heat sealing is controlled to a degree such that the lower melting point support is made to melt and extrude through the mesh of the fabric on either side of a channel, forming a seal along the sides of the channel.