A blood sampler for taking blood samples from a finger.

Abstract

A blood sampler (1) for taking a blood sample from a finger (61), comprising: a clip (2) having a first opening (21) for defining a space (20) for receiving at least a portion of the finger (61) and for attaching a vial (3) for receiving the blood sample; and at least one lancet holder (5) for receiving a lancet system (4) including a lancet (43) for cutting at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is in the space (20), located inside or on the clip (2) but different from the first opening (21).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of blood samplers. More particularly, the present invention describes a blood sampler for collecting a blood sample from a finger and a component kit including the blood sampler.

Background Art

[0002] Blood samplers for collecting a blood sample from a finger, i.e., a finger or a toe, that can be used by even an untrained person are known in the art. The advantage of such a blood sampler is that the person from whom the blood sample is to be taken can use it to collect the blood sample himself.

[0003] The process of collecting a blood sample by oneself can be divided into two stages: a preparation stage and a lancet puncture and collection stage. In the state of the art, the preparation stage may be used to optimize blood flow in order to facilitate subsequent steps. In existing self-collection tests, it is required to first wash the hands with warm water and then massage the hands. Thereafter, the finger from which the blood sample is to be taken is disinfected, for example, with an alcohol wipe. The ring finger or the index finger is preferred. The lancet puncture and collection stage begins when the finger is incised with a lancet, e.g., a needle. The released blood is collected with a capillary and then transferred to a tube and sent to a laboratory. Alternatively, the finger is punctured and the blood is simply allowed to drip into the tube. The latter is called "free fall collection". In either method, usually, massage is required to release sufficient blood. Once the tube is filled, it can be sent for further processing. After collection, a band-aid is applied around the finger to prevent contamination.

[0004] An example of a state-of-the-art blood sampler is disclosed in WO2020 / 245258, which describes a blood sampler equipped with a mounting ring for securing the blood sampler to a finger. This positions the finger in a fixed position relative to the opening of the blood sampler. The lancet is movable within the opening between a retracted position and an incision site where the lancet extends at least partially into the space that receives the finger. After moving the lancet to the incision position and incising the finger, blood is collected through the opening into a vial. This design of the blood sampler may require a dedicated vial specifically designed for this particular blood sampler. This limits the types of vials that can be used and may pose problems when manufacturing and using the blood sampler at the lowest possible cost. This problem may be particularly important in low-income countries. Furthermore, when a large amount of blood needs to be collected, the use of the blood sampler may be difficult when incisions are made at multiple locations (on the same finger or different fingers). In fact, it may be necessary to transfer blood from the vial to a secondary vial before using the lancet again to make an incision at an additional site. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Therefore, there is still a need in the art for devices that address at least some of the above problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an excellent blood sampler. A further object of the present invention is to provide an excellent component kit including the blood sampler.

[0007] The above objectives are achieved by the apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] An advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that standard vials can be used in the blood sampler. A further advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that the cost of manufacturing and / or using the blood sampler may be reduced.

[0009] An advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that a single vial can be used to collect blood from various incisions on the finger.

[0010] An advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that the blood sampler may have a relatively simple design.

[0011] An advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that the blood sampler may allow blood to be collected without compressing or massaging the fingers. It is generally known that compressing or massaging the fingers can degrade the quality of the blood.

[0012] An advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that blood leakage is limited or even eliminated entirely, resulting in efficient blood sample collection and potentially reducing anxiety for individuals who are sensitive to blood.

[0013] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to a blood sampler for taking a blood sample from a finger, i.e., a finger or toe. The blood sampler comprises a clip defining a space for receiving at least a portion of a finger. The clip comprises a first opening for attaching a vial for receiving a blood sample. The blood sampler further comprises at least one lancet holder located in or attached to the clip, separate from the first opening. The at least one lancet holder is configured to receive a lancet system comprising a lancet for incising at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is present in the space.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least one lancet holder has at least one second opening within the clip, distinct from a first opening, for allowing at least one lancet of the lancet system to pass through. An advantage of these embodiments is that the presence of a second opening through which the lancet of the lancet system can pass through can simplify the integration of the lancet system into a blood sampler.

[0015] In embodiments of the present invention, the blood sampler further comprises at least one lancet system including a lancet movable between a retracted position and an incision position which extends at least partially into space to incise at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is present in space.

[0016] In the retracted position, it is preferable that the lancet is not positioned to insect a portion of the finger when a portion of the finger is in space. In some embodiments, in the retracted position, the lancet is substantially retracted from space. In some embodiments, the lancet system includes a lancet casing having an interior and an entrance, where in the retracted position the lancet is substantially in the interior, and in the incision position the lancet extends at least partially outward through the entrance to the interior. The advantage of these embodiments is that a relatively simple blood sampler configuration is assumed, which is relatively easy to manufacture. A further advantage of these embodiments is that in the retracted position, i.e., when the lancet is not being used to incise at least a portion of the finger, the lancet is safely in the interior. This prevents harm to the person using the blood sampler (e.g., needle stick injuries) and also prevents contamination of the lancet.

[0017] In embodiments of the present invention, the lancet system may be a separate, replaceable component of the blood sampler. The lancet system may be sold separately and connected to or incorporated into the lancet holder to form part of it. In alternative embodiments, the lancet system may be manufactured integrally with the other parts of the lancet holder or form part of the lancet holder.

[0018] In some embodiments, the clip comprises a stationary part having a first opening and a movable part hinged to the stationary part. The stationary part and / or the movable part comprises at least one lancet holder. At least a portion of a finger may be positioned between the stationary part and the movable part, for example, by pinching it. The advantage of embodiments having both the first opening and the lancet holder in the stationary part is that by having both the first opening and the location for securing the lancet system to the clip in the same part of the clip, i.e., the stationary part, the distance between the first opening and the location is independent of the size of at least a portion of the finger.

[0019] In some embodiments, the clip defines a cup around the periphery of the space, with a first opening in the wall of the cup, and at least one lancet holder inside or on the wall of the cup. The cup may allow blood to flow from the finger incision through the cup into a vial attached to the first opening. Furthermore, the cup creates a gap between the finger incision and the clip, so that the blood naturally falls from the finger through the first opening into the vial without touching the clip. The presence of a lancet holder in the wall of the cup may mean that the lancet of the lancet system can pass through a second opening in the wall of the cup.

[0020] In some embodiments, the angle between a first direction from the center of the space where at least a portion of the finger is absent toward a first opening and a second direction from the center toward the lancet system is up to 70°, e.g., 10°–70°, e.g., 20°–70°, e.g., 30°–60°. Larger angles are also possible, but the advantage of these embodiments is that the distance between the site where at least a portion of the finger is incised and the site where the blood sample is taken is short. For example, the site where at least a portion of the finger is incised and the site of the first opening can be on the same side of at least a portion of the finger. This improves the efficiency of blood collection and prevents the blood from first flowing over at least a portion of the finger before falling into the first opening or into the cup, if present. This allows for efficient blood sample collection and prevents contamination of the blood sample.

[0021] In an alternative embodiment, the clip defines a cup and a movable part that is movable relative to the cup, for example, by a hinge. Both the cup and the movable part are located around a space intended to receive at least a portion of a finger. A first opening for attaching a vial to receive a blood sample is located in the wall of the cup, and at least one lancet holder is located in or on the wall of the movable part.

[0022] In some embodiments, at least one lancet holder may be manufactured integrally with the clip. The lancet holder may be, for example, a cup or a hole in a movable part for receiving the lancet system. Alternatively or, the lancet holder may include a housing fixed to or manufactured integrally with the cup or movable part for receiving the lancet system. The housing may have dimensions selected to allow the lancet system to slide in and fit snugly inside it.

[0023] In some embodiments, the clip may include a friction element, such as a rough surface, for contact with at least a portion of the finger in space. In some embodiments, the clip may include a clip foam for contact with at least a portion of the finger in space. The advantage of these embodiments is that they can prevent slippage of at least a portion of the finger in space.

[0024] In some embodiments, the blood sampler includes means for attaching a vial to a first opening in any suitable manner, for example, by a push-fit, for example, a crimp-fit ​​or friction-fit connection. Alternatively, a snap-fit ​​and / or screw connection may be used. A push-fit connection allows for quick fastening and easy removal of the vial. Typically, when a vial is present, there are corresponding means for attaching the vial to the first opening of the blood sampler. In some embodiments, the blood sampler includes a vial. However, this is not essential, and the vial may only be available when the blood sampler is in use.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the finger is a finger. Preferably, at least a portion of the finger that is received in space is at least a portion of the fingertip, i.e., at least a portion of the distal portion. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and instead, at least a portion of the finger that is received in space may be at least a portion of the middle or proximal portion of the finger.

[0026] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a component kit. The component kit includes a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. Further, the component kit includes a tourniquet for restricting, for example, compressing a finger to restrict the flow of blood through a finger vein. Usually, when the tourniquet is tightly wrapped around the finger to compress the finger, usually at a location between the incision part of the finger and the palm as described above, it does not restrict the blood from flowing through the vein in the direction from the heart to the finger, but restricts the blood from flowing through the vein from the finger towards the heart, for example, can substantially prevent or even stop it. When the finger is incised, if the flow of blood from the finger towards the heart is restricted, the blood is induced to flow out of the finger through the incised part of the finger. The advantages of these embodiments are that a good blood sample can be obtained. The advantage of these embodiments is that there is no need to massage the finger to collect the blood sample. Massaging may reduce the quality of the collected sample. For example, particles may be released from the vein wall by massage and then may be collected into the vial. Further, massage promotes blood coagulation.

[0027] In some embodiments, the component kit further includes at least one lancet system including a lancet movable between a retracted position and an incision position.

[0028] In some embodiments, in addition to the sampler, the component kit also includes a vial and a vial cap. The vial may have the advantage of being a standard commercially available vial. The advantage of the embodiments of the present invention is that there is no need to design a dedicated vial. Thus, the present invention can result in a reduction in the costs required for manufacturing and using the component kit. However, this is not essential, and the vial may be a dedicated vial.

[0029] The vial can usually be removably attached to the first opening, and thus, the vial may be attached to the first opening immediately before collecting a blood sample and removed after collecting the blood sample. Preferably, before using the component kit, the vial of the component kit is closed by a closing means, such as a cap, a disposable cap, or foil. The closing means may be removed immediately before using the component kit, for example, immediately before attaching the vial to the first opening. The closing means can prevent internal contamination of the vial from receiving the blood sample. After the blood sample enters the vial, the vial can be removed from the first opening and the vial can be closed by a cap.

[0030] In some embodiments, the vial has a thread and the cap has a complementary thread. An advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that the cap can be screwed onto the vial to close the vial, and as a result, a very secure closure of the vial is provided. Alternatively, the vial and the cap may have complementary means for obtaining a press fit or snap fit connection between the vial and the cap.

[0031] Specific preferred aspects of the present invention are described in the appended independent claims and dependent claims. The features of the dependent claims are not only explicitly described in the claims, but can also be combined with the features of the independent claims and the features of other dependent claims, if appropriate.

[0032] The above and other features, characteristics, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings that illustrate the principles of the present invention. This description is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but is given merely by way of example. References to the figures shown below refer to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0033] [Figure 1] It is a schematic side view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic front view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic perspective view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a schematic side view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the protective cap removed and the lance of the blood sampler in the retracted position. [Figure 6] This is a schematic side view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the protective cap removed and the lance of the blood sampler in the incision position. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention, used for collecting blood samples. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention after blood sample collection. [Figure 9] This is a schematic exploded view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This is a schematic side view of a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention, which includes two lancet systems. [Figure 11] This is a schematic diagram of a blood sampler according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in which the lancet holder is manufactured integrally with the movable part of the clip, and the lancet system is introduced into the lancet holder. [Figure 12] Figure 11 is an exploded view of the blood sampler, including the lancet system. [Figure 13] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a blood sampler, showing the lancet system located within the lancet holder. [Figure 14] Figure 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a blood sampler without a lancet system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0034] In different drawings, the same reference numeral refers to the same or similar element.

[0035] The present invention is described with reference to specific drawings in relation to particular embodiments, but the present invention is not limited thereto and is limited only by the claims. The drawings described are merely schematic and not limiting. In the drawings, some of the sizes of elements may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may not be drawn to scale. Dimensions and relative dimensions do not correspond to actual scales for the implementation of the present invention.

[0036] Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," etc., in the description and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe order in time, space, ranking, or any other manner. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in any order other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0037] Furthermore, terms such as "above," "below," "above," and "below" in the description and claims are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to describe relative positions. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that embodiments of the invention described herein may operate in orientations other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0038] It should be noted that the term “comprising” as used in the claims should not be interpreted as restricting to the means subsequently enumerated, nor as excluding other elements or steps. Therefore, it should be interpreted as indicating the existence of the stated feature, integer, step, or component mentioned, but not excluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the term “comprising” covers situations where only the stated features exist, and situations where these features and one or more other features exist. Therefore, the term “comprising” in the present invention also includes the absence of further components as one embodiment. Accordingly, the scope of the expression “apparatus comprising means A and B” should not be interpreted as being limited to an apparatus consisting only of components A and B. This simply means, with respect to the present invention, that the relevant components of the apparatus are A and B.

[0039] Similarly, it should be noted that the term “combined” should not be interpreted as being limited only to direct connections. The terms “combined” and “connected” and their derivatives may be used. It should be understood that these terms are not intended to be synonymous with each other. Therefore, the expression “device A coupled to device B” should not be limited to a device or system in which the output of device A is directly connected to the input of device B. This means that a path exists between the output of A and the input of B, and that path may include other devices or means. “Combined” can mean that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but still cooperate or interact with each other.

[0040] Throughout this specification, any reference to “one embodiment” or “embodiment” means that certain features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to an embodiment are included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in a particular embodiment” appearing in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, although they may. Furthermore, certain features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0041] Similarly, in the description of exemplary embodiments of the Invention, it should be understood that various features of the Invention may be grouped together in a single embodiment, drawing, or description for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various aspects of the Invention. However, this method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly described in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims below, the aspects of the Invention have fewer features than all of the single embodiments disclosed above. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated into this detailed description, and each claim exists independently as a distinct embodiment of the Invention.

[0042] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include certain features but do not include other features included in other embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to fall within the scope of the invention and form different embodiments. For example, any combination of the claimed embodiments may be used within the following claims.

[0043] The description provided herein includes many specific details. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be carried out without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, structures, and techniques are not described in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this description.

[0044] The present invention will now be described by a detailed description of several embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent that other embodiments of the present invention can be constructed in accordance with the knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the technical teachings of the present invention, and the present invention is limited only by the terms of the accompanying claims.

[0045] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to a blood sampler for taking a blood sample from a finger, i.e., a finger or toe. The blood sampler comprises a clip defining a space for receiving at least a portion of a finger. The clip comprises a first opening for mounting a vial for receiving a blood sample. The blood sampler further comprises at least one lancet holder in or on the clip at a location different from the first opening. The lancet holder is intended and configured to receive a lancet system comprising a lancet for incising at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is present in the space. In some embodiments, the lancet is movable between a retracted position and an incision position which extends at least partially into the space to incise at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is present in the space.

[0046] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a parts kit. The parts kit includes a blood sampler according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. Furthermore, the parts kit includes a tourniquet for compressing a finger to restrict the flow of blood through the veins of the finger.

[0047] Refer to Figures 1 and 2. In this example, the blood sampler 1 comprises a clip 2 having a stationary part 25 and a movable part 24 hinged to the stationary part 25 by a hinge mechanism, for example, a pin 27. The clip 2 defines a space 20 that receives at least a portion of a finger from the user. The movable part 24 can be guided to rotate around the hinge mechanism, for example, the pin 27, so that the size of the space 20 increases, and in the side view of Figure 1, the rotation is clockwise. This allows at least a portion of the finger to be easily received within the space 20. Guiding the hinge action is facilitated by a lever 28 protruding from the movable part 24 of the clip. Here, the user can apply a downward force to the lever 28 in the side view of Figure 1 to guide the clockwise rotation.

[0048] After receiving at least a portion of the finger into the space 20, the movable portion 24 is guided to rotate around a hinge mechanism, such as a pin 27, so that the stationary portion 25 and the movable portion 24 move toward each other to reduce the size, e.g., volume, of the space 20. In the side view of Figure 1, the rotation is counterclockwise. This counterclockwise direction may be guided by a clip spring (45, see Figures 2 and 9). This allows at least a portion of the finger to be clamped between the movable portion 24 and the stationary portion 25 by the clip 2, i.e., the clip 2 can be fastened to at least a portion of the finger so that at least a portion of the finger is positioned where it will be cut by a lancet of a lancet system 4 introduced into a lancet holder 5 fixed to the clip 2. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2, the lancet holder 5 and the stationary portion 25 of the clip 2 are manufactured as a single unit. A friction element, such as a clip foam 26, fixed to the movable portion 24 of the clip 2 can prevent movement such as sliding of at least a portion of the finger within the space 20.

[0049] In this example, the blood sampler 1 comprises a cup 23 around a space 20. The cup 23 is located on a stationary portion 25 of the clip 2, for example, defined by the stationary portion 25. In this example, the blood sampler 1 has a vial 3 attached to a first opening 21, the first opening 21 being on the wall of the cup 23. In this example, the blood sampler 1 comprises means for attaching the vial 3 to the first opening 21 by a push-fit connection. In this example, the means comprises a protruding substantially cylindrical portion 211, which preferably has an outer diameter substantially the same as the inner diameter of the inlet of the vial 3. This allows for a push-fit, for example, friction-fit connection between the vial 3 and the cylindrical portion 211. An advantage of these embodiments is that any vial having an inlet with an inner diameter substantially the same as the outer diameter of the protruding portion can be used. Alternatively, the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 211 may be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the inlet of the vial 3. Instead of a substantially cylindrical shape, the protruding portion may have a substantially frustoconical shape, with its diameter slightly decreasing towards the end to which vial 3 is connected, thereby facilitating a push-fit connection. Furthermore, the protruding portion may have any other suitable shape, for example, the cross-section of the protruding portion may have a square, triangular, or any other regular or irregular inner circumference, and vial 3 may have a complementary outer circumference that enables a push-fit.

[0050] The lancet system 4 is introduced into a lancet holder 5 located on the wall of the cup 23, for example, fabricated, fixed, or integrally fabricated with the wall of the cup 23. In the illustrated example, the lancet system 4 is introduced into a lancet holder 5 formed by a tubular element 47 integrally fabricated with the wall of the cup 23. A second opening in the cup 23 allows the lancet of the lancet system 4 to enter the space 20 through the wall of the cup 23. In Figures 1 and 2, the blood sampler 1 is shown in a preferred position for use, i.e., with the cup 23 directly below the space 20. In this position, the first opening 21 is preferably below the space 20, for example, in the substantially lowest area of ​​the cup 23. The angle α between a first direction from the center of the space 20 where at least part of the finger is absent toward the first opening 21, i.e., along the dashed line 51, and a second direction from the center toward the lancet holder 5, i.e., along the dashed line 52, is about 45° in this example. Preferably, the lancet is oriented substantially along the second direction, and is movable substantially along the second direction, i.e., along the dashed line 52. Therefore, when in use, the lancet system 4 is introduced into the lancet holder 5 and positioned such that at least a portion of the finger to be incised is above or nearly above the first opening 21, so that the blood flowing from at least a portion of the finger can fall directly into the vial 3 attached to the first opening 21 and / or first into the cup 23 and then flow into the vial 3. As shown in Figure 2, a lip 30 can be provided inside the cup 23 to guide the blood droplets more quickly towards the vial 3. Preferably, the first opening 21 and the vial 3 are adapted to allow the blood sample to fall into the vial 3 by gravity, for example. This makes it possible to quickly collect a large volume of blood sample, which is more difficult when collecting blood samples using a low-volume capillary tube that instead utilizes capillary force.

[0051] The blood sampler 1 includes a lancet holder 5 for receiving a lancet system 4, which is fixed to a clip 2 at a location different from the first opening 21. In other words, the location where blood is collected (i.e., the first opening 21) and the location where the lancet enters the space 20 during use do not overlap. This allows for a much simpler design than when the lancet and the location where blood is collected are substantially in the same place. The lancet of the lancet system 4 is normally movable between a retracted position where the lancet is substantially retracted from the space 20 and an incision position where it extends at least partially into the space 20 to incise at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is in the space 20. The lancet is normally in the retracted position before use. To further prevent accidental incisions of the user or any other object by the lancet, as well as contamination of the lancet, a protective cap 41 can be used to prevent premature exposure of the lancet. For example, the protective cap 41 can cover the lancet. In another example, the lancet system 4 includes a lancet casing having an interior and an inlet, where the lancet is substantially inside in the retracted position and at least partially extends outside the interior through the inlet in the incision position. In some embodiments, a protective cap 41 can cover the inlet of the lancet system 4 so that the lancet exits the interior of the lancet system but is still covered by the protective cap 41, or so that the inlet is blocked to completely prevent the lancet from exiting the interior. The protective cap 41 can be removed before using the blood sampler to collect a blood sample, for example, immediately before introducing at least a portion of a finger into the space 20. The lancet can be guided to move from the retracted position to the incision position by activating an actuation mechanism, for example by pressing a knob 42 or engaging a slider (not shown).

[0052] Refer to Figure 3, which is a front view of the blood sampler in Figure 1. The blood sampler 1 preferably includes means for properly positioning at least a portion of a finger within the space 20. In this example, the movable part 24 of the clip 2 is provided with a hole 29, which allows for precise determination of the position and orientation of at least a portion of the finger within the space 20. For example, the hole 29 is shaped such that when the fingernail overlaps the hole 29, at least a portion of the finger is properly positioned within the space 20, thereby allowing the lancet to incise the finger and efficiently collect blood from the finger.

[0053] See Figures 1, 2, and 3 for perspective views of the blood sampler 1, and Figure 4. In this example, the clip 2 has a second opening 22 distinct from the first opening 21, the second opening 22 being located in the wall of the cup 23. Here, the lancet system 4 is introduced into the lancet holder 5 at the location of the second opening 22, so that the lance of the lancet system 4 can move through the second opening 22 into the space 20.

[0054] Refer to Figure 5. After removing the protective cap (41, see Figure 1), the blood sampler 1 can be activated for use. In Figure 5, the lancet is in the retracted position. In this example, this means the lancet is not in space 20.

[0055] By activating the actuation mechanism, for example by pressing knob 42, the lancet is guided to move to the incision position. Referring to Figure 6, a blood sampler 1 is shown with the lancet 43 in the incision position, and the lancet 43 extends at least partially into the space 20 to incise at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is within the space 20.

[0056] Refer to Figure 7. The tip of the user's middle finger 61, i.e., a portion of its distal end, is received within the space 20 of the blood sampler 1. In this example, the blood sampler 1 is configured so that the actuation mechanism can be activated when the tip of the middle finger 61 is in the space 20, for example, by pressing the knob 42 with the thumb 62 of the same hand as the user's middle finger 61. This allows for a repeatable incision at a predetermined location on the finger, e.g., the middle finger 61, whenever the knob 42 is pressed with the thumb 62. Pressing the knob 42 moves the lancet to the incision position and incises the user's middle finger 61.

[0057] In this example, the component kit according to the embodiment of the present invention further includes a box 7 having a hole 71 in which a vial 3 can be placed. By placing the vial 3 in the hole 71 when the box 7 is placed on a table, it is ensured that the blood sampler 1 is at a height lower than the heart, thereby allowing gravity to guide the flow of blood from the incision in the finger without the need to massage the finger.

[0058] Refer to Figure 8. The parts kit further includes a tourniquet 72 that can be secured around the finger to be punctured, for example, the middle finger 61. Preferably, the tourniquet is secured around the middle or proximal part of the finger to be punctured, for example, the middle finger 61, before moving the tip of the finger 61 into the space 20 of the blood sampler 1. The tourniquet 72 compresses the vein of the finger 61 that carries blood back to the user's heart. By blocking the blood flow, the blood is guided to flow through the incision in the finger 61 and can be collected by the vial 3. However, the tourniquet 72 may not be essential when using the blood sampler 1 to collect a blood sample.

[0059] Refer to Figure 9, an exploded view of the blood sampler 1 in which the lancet system 4 is provided. The lancet system 4 includes a lancet casing 44 having an interior and an inlet, the inlet being covered by a protective cap 41, and the lancet 43 being substantially inside in the retracted position. In this example, the lancet casing 44 is substantially located within a cavity defined by a lancet holder 5 in the form of a knob 42 and a tubular element 47, the outer diameter of the knob 42 being substantially the same as the inner diameter of the tubular element 47 forming the lancet holder 5, thereby allowing the knob 42 to slide into the tubular element 47. When the knob 42 is pressed, the lancet casing 44 is guided to release the lancet 43 from the interior, so that the lancet extends at least partially outward through the inlet, thereby moving the lancet to the incision position.

[0060] Alternatively, the lancet is fixed to the lancet casing 44 such that at least a portion of the lancet protrudes from the lancet casing 44. The protective cap 41 covers the lancet, and the lancet can be exposed when the protective cap 41 is removed. The blood sampler 1 may further include one or more springs 46 located between the knob 42 and the lancet holder 5, which is fixed to the clip 2 and, in the illustrated embodiment, is formed by, for example, a integrally fabricated tubular element 47. When the knob 42 is pressed, the lancet casing 44 moves toward the space, and therefore the lancet moves into the space, thereby compressing the springs 46. When the knob 42 is then released, the compression of the springs 46 is released, and therefore the lancet casing 44 is pushed out of the space, thereby moving the lancet out of the space.

[0061] The stationary portion 25 of the clip is provided with a hole 251, and the movable portion 24 is provided with a hole 241, and the holes 241 and 251 can be oriented to simultaneously receive a hinge mechanism, such as a pin 27, in both holes 241 and 251 to form a hinge connection between the stationary portion 25 and the movable portion 24. A clip spring 45 is provided to apply a force that moves the movable portion 24 and the stationary portion 25 toward each other in order to reduce the size of the space 20 defined by the movable portion 24 and the stationary portion 25.

[0062] Refer to Figure 10. The blood sampler 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the single lancet holder 5 described above, but may instead comprise a plurality of lancet holders 5, each accepting a lancet system 4. In Figure 10, the blood sampler 10 comprises a lancet holder 5 shown with a lancet system 4 introduced inside, and a further lancet holder 50 shown with an additional lancet system 40 introduced inside. The further lancet holder 50 may have substantially the same features as the lancet holder 5 described above. The advantage of having the further lancet holder 50 is that, when at least a portion of the finger is in the space 20, at least a portion of the finger can be incised simultaneously or sequentially at two different locations without the need to move the finger, resulting in efficient collection of blood samples.

[0063] Figures 11–14 show another embodiment of the blood sampler 100 according to the present invention. To avoid repetition, not all details in these drawings are described in as much detail as in the previous drawings. However, device features with the same reference numerals are the same as or similar to the device features with the corresponding reference numerals in the previous description.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the blood sampler 100 includes a clip 2 that defines a space for receiving at least a portion of a finger. The clip 2 is made of a stationary part 25 and a movable part 24. In this embodiment, unlike the previous embodiment, the lancet holder 5 is fixed to the movable part 24, for example, manufactured integrally. Thus, the blood sampler 100 includes a lancet holder 5 for receiving a lancet system 4, which is fixed to the clip 2 at a location different from the first opening 21. In other words, the location where blood is collected (i.e., the first opening 21) and the location where the lancet enters the space 20 when in use do not overlap.

[0065] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the stationary portion 25 may form a cup for easy collection of a blood sample and to guide the blood sample toward the first opening 21 into which the vial 3 is attached, but it is not necessarily required to form a cup.

[0066] Figure 11 and its cross-section Figure 13 show the blood sampler 100 with the lancet system 4 introduced into the lancet holder 5. Figure 14 shows a cross-section of the blood sampler 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention with the lancet system 4 not introduced inside.

[0067] In particular, as can be seen in Figures 13 and 14, this blood sampler 100 may further include one or more springs 46 within the lancet holder 5. When the lancet system 4 introduced into the lancet holder 5 is pressed, the lancet system 4 moves toward the space 20, so that the lancet 43 enters the space 20 through the second opening 22, thereby compressing the spring 46. Subsequently, when the lancet system 4 is released, the compression of the spring 46 is released, so that the lancet system 4 is pushed out of the space 20, so that the lancet 43 moves out of the space 20.

[0068] While specific types of lancet systems have been described above, the blood sampler according to the present invention may be equipped with any type of lancet system known to those skilled in the art.

[0069] Preferred embodiments, specific structures and configurations, and materials of the apparatus according to the present invention have been described herein, but it should be understood that various changes or modifications can be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A blood sampler (1, 10, 100) for collecting a blood sample from a finger (61), A clip (2) having a space (20) for receiving at least a portion of a finger (61) and a first opening (21) for attaching a vial (3) for receiving a blood sample, A lancet holder (5) for receiving a lancet system (4, 40) which includes a lancet (43) for cutting at least a portion of a finger when at least a portion of the finger is in the space (20), located inside or on the clip (2) but in a location different from the first opening (21), A blood sampler equipped with (1, 10, 100).

2. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one lancet holder (5) comprises in the clip (2) at least one second opening (22) different from the first opening (21) for allowing at least one lancet of the lancet system (4) to pass through.

3. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any one of the claims, further comprising at least one lancet system (4, 40) including a lancet (43) movable between a retracted position and an incision position which extends at least partially into the space (20) to incise at least a portion of the finger when at least a portion of the finger is in the space (20).

4. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to claim 3, wherein the at least one lancet system (4, 40) includes a lancet casing having an interior and an inlet, wherein in the retracted position the lancet (43) is substantially inside, and in the incision position the lancet (43) extends at least partially outside the interior through the inlet.

5. The aforementioned clip (2) is, A stationary part (25) having a first opening (21), A movable part (24) is attached to the stationary part (25) in a hinge manner, A blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any one of the claims, wherein the stationary part (25) and / or the movable part (24) each comprises at least one lancet holder (5).

6. The blood sampler (1, 10) according to any one of the claims, wherein the clip (2) defines a cup (23) around the space (20), the first opening (21) is in the wall of the cup (23), and the at least one lancet holder (5) is in or in the wall of the cup (23).

7. The blood sampler (1, 10) according to any of the claims, wherein the angle α between a first direction from the center of the space (20) where at least a portion of the finger (61) is absent toward the first opening (21) and a second direction from the center toward at least one of the at least one lancet system (4, 40) is at most 70°.

8. The blood sampler (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the clip (2) defines the cup (23) and movable part (24) around the space (20), the first opening (21) is in the wall of the cup (23), and the at least one lancet holder (5) is in or on the wall of the movable part (24).

9. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any one of the claims, wherein the at least one lancet holder (5) is manufactured integrally with the clip (2).

10. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any one of the claims, wherein the clip (2) comprises a friction element (26) for contacting at least a portion of the finger (61) in the space (20).

11. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any one of the claims, wherein the blood sampler (1) is provided with means for attaching the vial (3) to the first opening (21) by push-fit connection.

12. The blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any of the above claims, wherein the finger (61) is a finger.

13. It is a parts kit, A blood sampler (1, 10, 100) according to any of the above claims, A tourniquet (72) is used to compress the finger (61) in order to restrict the flow of blood through the veins of the finger (61), A parts kit that includes this.

14. The component kit according to claim 13, further comprising at least one lancet system including a lancet (43).

15. A parts kit according to claim 13 or claim 14, further comprising a vial (3) and a cap for the vial (3).

16. The component kit according to claim 15, wherein the vial (3) has a screw thread and the cap has a complementary screw thread.

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