Diluent storage and sample collection integrated device
By integrating a diluent storage and sample collection device, the problem of cumbersome sample collection in existing technologies is solved, the integrated operation of diluent and sample is realized, the risk of sample contamination is reduced, and the experimental efficiency is improved.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202422492112.5
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-10-15
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-02
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-10-15
AI Technical Summary
Existing diluent storage and sample collection processes are cumbersome, requiring multiple quantitative sample transfers, which increases the probability of sample contamination.
Design an integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection, including a dilution tube, a sealing cap, and a dropper. Through a sealed connection, the device integrates diluent storage, sampling, sample-diluent mixing, and quantitative sample loading into the same device, and utilizes air pressure difference and a ruler to achieve precise operation.
It simplifies the operation process, reduces the probability of sample contamination, improves experimental efficiency, saves costs, and the choice of device materials avoids dilution leakage.
Smart Images
Figure CN223623950U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to an integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection, belonging to the field of clinical testing technology. Background Technology
[0002] Immunochromatography primarily utilizes the principle of immune binding reactions to detect the presence of analytes in samples. It can be used to detect various biological samples such as saliva, blood, urine, and sweat. Using blood as a sample for disease detection, immunochromatography has been developed and applied in multiple fields, including tumor marker detection, early prediction of cardiovascular diseases, and infectious disease screening. Blood, especially finger-prick blood, is a common sample source, and its minimally invasive and rapid collection characteristics have led to its widespread use on various platforms.
[0003] In clinical point-of-care testing (POCT) platforms, numerous procedures require diluting samples into matching diluents before loading and testing. Most existing reagent kits use diluents stored in sealable containers, necessitating alternative quantitative sampling methods to add the sample to the diluent. For example, in finger-prick blood collection using capillary tubes, multiple quantitative transfers of the sample are required, increasing the risk of contamination. The cumbersome sample collection and dilution processes, involving numerous materials, further increase the probability of sample contamination. Utility Model Content
[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention provides an integrated device for storing and collecting immunodiluents. This integrated device can integrate multiple processes such as storing the immunodiluent, sampling, mixing the sample with the immunodiluent, and quantitative loading into a single device, thereby reducing the amount of materials used and lowering the probability of sample contamination.
[0005] This utility model is achieved through the following technical solution:
[0006] An integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection includes:
[0007] A dilution tube, wherein the dilution tube is configured as a cavity with an opening at one end for storing a diluent;
[0008] A sealing cap, one end of which is connected to the dilution tube;
[0009] A dropper is located at the end of the sealing cap away from the dilution tube, and the dropper abuts against the dilution tube.
[0010] In one embodiment of this utility model, a first thread is provided on the outside of the dilution tube, and the first thread is connected to the sealing cap.
[0011] In one embodiment of this invention, a sealing film is provided at the opening of the dilution tube, and a protrusion is provided at the edge of the sealing film. The sealing film is used to seal the diluent and also extends the storage time of the diluent. The protrusion serves as a tear-off corner, making it easy for the experimenter to tear off the sealing film when using the diluent.
[0012] In one embodiment of this utility model, the sealing cap is provided with a first hole and a second hole, the first hole is connected to the second hole and penetrates the sealing cap; the first hole is connected to the dilution tube and the second hole is connected to the dropper.
[0013] In one embodiment of this utility model, the diameter of the second hole is smaller than the diameter of the first hole, and the connection between the first hole and the second hole forms a plane.
[0014] In one embodiment of this utility model, the first hole is provided with a second thread, and the second thread is connected to the first thread.
[0015] In one embodiment of this utility model, a sealing ring is further provided inside the sealing cover. The sealing ring is located between the second thread and the second hole and abuts against the plane.
[0016] In one embodiment of this utility model, the dropper includes a ball, a tube, and an extension. One end of the ball is connected to the tube, and the end of the tube away from the ball is connected to the extension. The side of the extension near the tube abuts against the sealing ring, and the side of the extension away from the tube abuts against the opening of the dilution tube.
[0017] In one embodiment of this invention, the dropper further includes a thin tube located on the side of the sphere away from the tube body. A sealing element is provided at the end of the thin tube away from the sphere, and the sealing element abuts against the thin tube. The sealing element seals the dropper, which is only removed when aspirating liquid samples, reducing the probability of sample contamination during other processes.
[0018] In one embodiment of this invention, a scale is provided on the outside of the thin tube. This allows researchers to visually determine the volume of sample drawn or dispensed.
[0019] Beneficial effects
[0020] 1. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection provided by this utility model includes a dilution tube, a sealing cap, and a dropper. The dilution tube and the dropper are connected by the sealing cap, and the integrated design of the dilution tube and the dropper can complete multiple processes such as diluent storage, sampling, sample and diluent mixing, and quantitative sample loading on the same device. It uses fewer tools and materials, is simple and quick to operate, improves experimental and detection efficiency, saves experimental or clinical testing costs, and reduces the probability of sample contamination.
[0021] 2. The dropper of this integrated dilution solution storage and sample collection device consists of a bulb and a tapered tube. The tapered tube is equipped with a scale. By pressing the bulb, the pressure difference is used to draw or expel the liquid sample. Combined with the scale on the tapered tube, a precise volume of liquid sample can be drawn. The opening of the tapered tube is also equipped with a seal to keep the dropper sealed, allowing it to be removed only when drawing liquid samples, thus reducing the probability of sample contamination during other processes.
[0022] 3. The dilution tubes and sealing caps of this integrated dilution storage and sample collection device are made of non-deformable polymer materials, which can avoid the risk of liquid leakage due to external pressure during storage and transportation. A sealing film is provided at the opening of the dilution tube to seal the dilution and extend its storage time. The sealing film has raised protrusions for easy tearing during use, preventing any residual film from obstructing liquid flow and affecting the mixing of the dilution and sample. Attached Figure Description
[0023] Figure 1 The front view of the integrated device for storing immunodiluent and collecting samples provided by this utility model.
[0024] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Sectional view along line AA.
[0025] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the dilution tube provided by this utility model.
[0026] Figure 4 A top view of the sealing film provided by this utility model.
[0027] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the sealing cap provided by this utility model.
[0028] Figure 6 This is a front view of the dropper provided by this utility model.
[0029] In the diagram: 1. Dilution tube; 11. First thread; 12. Sealing membrane; 13. Protrusion; 2. Sealing cap; 21. First hole; 22. Second thread; 23. Second hole; 24. Sealing ring; 25. Flat surface; 3. Dropper; 31. Sphere; 32. Tube body; 33. Extension; 34. Thin tube; 35. Seal. Detailed Implementation
[0030] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0031] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.
[0032] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.
[0033] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this application provides an integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection. The device includes a dilution tube 1, a sealing cap 2, and a dropper 3. The dilution tube 1 stores the diluent, with one end connected to the sealing cap 2. The end of the sealing cap 2 away from the dilution tube 1 is connected to the dropper 3. The dropper 3 is used to draw liquid samples and, after mixing the liquid sample with the diluent, to quantitatively drip it onto test paper. The liquid sample can be whole blood, plasma, tears, urine, or other test liquids. The sealing cap 2 connects the dilution tube 1 and the dropper 3, forming a seal at the connection point to prevent external substances from contaminating the diluent and sample.
[0034] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, the dilution tube 1 is a cylinder with an opening at one end and an internal cavity for storing the diluent. The capacity of the dilution tube 1 can be adapted according to actual needs. Further, a first thread 11 is provided at one end near the opening of the dilution tube 1. The first thread 11 connects to the sealing cap 2, ensuring a tight connection between the dilution tube 1 and the sealing cap 2, forming a seal. A sealing film 12 is also provided at the opening of the dilution tube 1. The sealing film 12 is a circular thin film that covers the opening of the dilution tube 1, sealing the diluent and extending its storage time. A protrusion 13 is provided at the edge of the sealing film 12, serving as a tear-off corner. This allows the experimenter to easily tear off the sealing film 12 when using the diluent, enabling the liquid to flow smoothly within the device and preventing residue of the sealing film 12 from hindering the mixing of the diluent and sample.
[0035] like Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the sealing cap 2 is a cylinder with a first hole 21 inside, which is used to connect to the dilution tube 1. A second hole 23 is provided at the end opposite to the first hole 21, which is used to connect to the dropper 3. The diameter of the second hole 23 is smaller than the diameter of the first hole 21, and the two are connected, forming a stepped hole inside the sealing cap 2. A plane 25 is formed at the connection between the first hole 21 and the second hole 23. A second thread 22 is provided on the inner side of the first hole 21 away from the second hole 23. The second thread 22 can cooperate with the first thread 11 to connect the sealing cap 2 to the dilution tube 1. After tightening, a seal is formed at the connection between the two. A sealing ring 24 is provided inside the sealing cap 2. The sealing ring 24 is located between the second thread 22 and the second hole 23 and abuts against the plane 25. The outer diameter of the sealing ring 24 is smaller than the diameter of the first hole 21 for easy installation.
[0036] like Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the dropper 3 is a conical dropper with a spherical cavity, which can draw liquid by squeezing. The dropper 3 includes a sphere 31, which is a spherical cavity filled with gas. The function of the dropper 3 in drawing liquid is achieved by squeezing the gas in the sphere 31. One end of the sphere 31 is connected to a tube 32, which connects the sphere 31 to the sealing cap 2. An extension 33 is provided at the end of the tube 32 away from the sphere 31. The extension 33 is a protrusion on the outer circumference of the tube 32. Figure 2As shown, the tube body 32 and the extension 33 are inserted into the second hole 23, and the extension 33 passes through the sealing ring 24, connecting the dropper 3 to the sealing cap 2. The end of the extension 33 away from the tube body 32 abuts against the opening of the dilution tube 1, and the side of the extension 33 near the tube body 32 abuts against the sealing ring 24. When the first thread 11 of the dilution tube 1 is tightened with the second thread 22 of the sealing cap 2, the first thread 11 presses the extension 33 upward, causing the extension 33 to abut against the sealing ring 24. The sealing ring 24 abuts against the plane 25, forming a seal at the connection between the sealing cap 2 and the dropper 3.
[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the dropper 3 also includes a thin tube 34, which is a conical cavity structure located at the end of the sphere 31 away from the tube body 32. The thin tube 34 is used to aspirate liquid, and a scale is provided on the outer surface of the thin tube 34 to facilitate the experimenter in visually determining the volume of sample aspirated or dripped. A sealing element 35 is provided at the end of the thin tube 34 away from the sphere 31. The sealing element 35 is a cylindrical shape with one open end, and the diameter of the sealing element 35 is consistent with the outer diameter of the port of the thin tube 34 away from the sphere 31. Since the thin tube 34 is conical, its outer diameter gradually increases along the direction close to the sphere 31. The sealing element 35 is installed at the port of the thin tube 34 away from the sphere 31, and the sealing element 35 is pressed to make the sealing element 35 abut against the thin tube 34, thereby forming a seal.
[0038] Furthermore, the volume of the sphere 31 should not be less than the maximum value of the scale on the outer side of the capillary tube 34. The volume of sample drawn by the dropper 3 is consistent with the volume of gas expelled by squeezing the sphere 31. Therefore, the volume of the sphere 31 must be greater than or equal to the maximum value of the scale on the outer side of the capillary tube 34 to ensure that the dropper 3 can draw any value on the scale.
[0039] Optionally, the values on the outer scale of the capillary tube 34 can be customized according to actual needs.
[0040] Optionally, the diameter of the second hole 23 is larger than the outer diameter of the tube body 32, so that the dropper 3 can be inserted into the sealing cap 2.
[0041] Optionally, the dilution tube 1 and the sealing cap 2 are made of a non-deformable polymer material to prevent the diluent from being squeezed during storage or transportation, which could cause the diluent to overflow.
[0042] Optionally, the dropper 3 is made of a deformable material that can draw liquid by squeezing.
[0043] The working principle of this utility model is as follows: The first thread 11 of the dilution tube 1 is screwed into the second thread 22 of the sealing cap 2, connecting the dilution tube 1 to the sealing cap 2. The tube body 32 and the extension 33 are inserted into the second hole 23, with the extension 33 passing through the sealing ring 24. When the first thread 11 and the second thread 22 are tightened, a seal is formed at the connection between the dilution tube 1 and the sealing cap 2. Simultaneously, the first thread 11 abuts against the extension 33, compressing the extension 33 and causing it to press against the sealing ring 24. The sealing ring 24 abuts against the plane 25, thus forming a seal at the connection between the sealing cap 2 and the dropper 3. A sealing element 35 is installed at the opening of the thin tube 34 of the dropper 3, which can seal the opening of the dropper 3. The sealing membrane 12 separates the diluted liquid in the dilution tube 1 from the sealing cap 2 and the dropper 3. The entire device is interconnected except for the sealing membrane 12. After the sealing membrane 12 is removed, the liquid can flow freely throughout the entire device.
[0044] When it is necessary to collect and dilute a liquid sample, the experimenter pinches the protrusion 13 to tear off the sealing film 12 at the opening of the dilution tube 1, then re-tightens the first thread 11 of the dilution tube 1 and the second thread 22 of the sealing cap 2, opens the seal 35 at the top of the dropper 3, presses the bulb 31 of the dropper 3, draws the liquid sample to the quantitative mark, removes the dropper 3 from the sample, releases the bulb 31, and presses the seal 35 to cover the opening of the thin tube 34. The entire device is then inverted to thoroughly mix the diluent with the liquid sample before use.
[0045] When sample needs to be added, open the seal 35 at the top of the capillary tube 34, invert the device, press the bulb 31, and add the liquid sample mixed with the diluent to the designated location for testing. This device integrates diluent storage and sample collection, completing multiple processes such as diluent storage, sampling, sample-diluent mixing, and quantitative sample loading on the same device. It requires fewer tools and materials, is simple and quick to operate, improves experimental and testing efficiency, saves experimental or clinical testing costs, and reduces the probability of sample contamination.
[0046] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.
[0047] The above embodiments only illustrate several implementation methods of this utility model, and their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this utility model, and these all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.
[0048] This document uses specific embodiments to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this utility model. The descriptions of these embodiments are merely for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this utility model. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications to this utility model without departing from its principles, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model patent should be determined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. An integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection, characterized in that, include: A dilution tube (1) is configured as a cavity with an opening at one end for storing diluent; A sealing cap (2) is connected at one end to the dilution tube (1); A dropper (3) is located at the end of the sealing cap (2) away from the dilution tube (1), and the dropper (3) abuts against the dilution tube (1).
2. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dilution tube (1) is provided with a first thread (11) on the outside, and the first thread (11) is connected to the sealing cap (2).
3. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 1, characterized in that, A sealing membrane (12) is provided at the opening of the dilution tube (1), and a protrusion (13) is provided at the edge of the sealing membrane (12).
4. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sealing cap (2) is provided with a first hole (21) and a second hole (23). The first hole (21) is connected to the second hole (23) and passes through the sealing cap (2). The first hole (21) is connected to the dilution tube (1), and the second hole (23) is connected to the dropper (3).
5. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 4, characterized in that, The diameter of the second hole (23) is smaller than the diameter of the first hole (21), and the connection between the first hole (21) and the second hole (23) forms a plane (25).
6. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first hole (21) is provided with a second thread (22), which is connected to the first thread (11).
7. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing cover (2) is also provided with a sealing ring (24), which is located between the second thread (22) and the second hole (23) and abuts against the plane (25).
8. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 7, characterized in that, The dropper (3) includes a ball (31), a tube (32) and an extension (33). One end of the ball (31) is connected to the tube (32), and the end of the tube (32) away from the ball (31) is connected to the extension (33). The side of the extension (33) close to the tube (32) abuts against the sealing ring (24), and the side of the extension (33) away from the tube (32) abuts against the opening of the dilution tube (1).
9. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 8, characterized in that, The dropper (3) also includes a thin tube (34), which is located on the side of the ball (31) away from the tube body (32). A sealing element (35) is provided at the end of the thin tube (34) away from the ball (31), and the sealing element (35) abuts against the thin tube (34).
10. The integrated device for diluent storage and sample collection according to claim 9, characterized in that, A scale is provided on the outside of the thin tube (34).