Microscope-ready sample collecting device

Abstract

A microscope-ready sample collecting device 10 has a hinge 24 between a sample housing portion 80 and a sample collecting portion 90 comprising a sample collecting head 16a / 16b, which may include an adhesive coating. The hinge 24, which may be a living hinge, foldably couples the sample collecting portion 90 to the sample housing portion 80. The housing portion 80 has a sample-viewing window 14a in a first surface 12a, a sample-housing 14b defined by a wall 22 upstanding from a second surface 12b and opposing side walls 20a / 20b. The hinge 24 allows the collecting head 16a / 16b to be folded within the sample housing 14b so a collected sample is presented to the viewing window for microscope analysis. The device 10 may be plastic and the side walls 20a / 20b may have ribs or ridges or other mouldings to enhance grip. Connection means may secure the collecting head in a folded, microscope-ready position in the housing. The collecting head 16a / 16b and the sample housing portion 80 may have snap-fit cooperating elements. The connection means may provide evidence of tampering or may have a release tab to disengage the connection means.