Liquid sample transfer device
The device effectively transfers a liquid sample from a sealed test container, the device effectively transfers a liquid sample from a sealed test container, the device effectively transfers a liquid sample from a liquid sample from a closed test container, the device effectively transfers a blood sample from a blood sample from a closed sample transfer device, the device efficiently transfers a liquid sample from a closed sample transfer device, the device efficiently transfers a blood sample from a closed blood collection tube to a blood collection tube, which is easy to manufacture, and has a low risk of spillage.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BIOMERIEUX SA
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-08
AI Technical Summary
Existing devices for transferring blood samples from closed containers to capillary tubes are prone to spillage, difficult to manufacture, and costly, making them unsuitable for critical environments like hospital emergency rooms.
A sample transfer device with a cup-shaped structure and a cannula system that utilizes capillary action and surface tension to hold the liquid sample in a sealed test container, reducing the risk of spillage and facilitating easy transfer to capillary tubes.
The device effectively transfers blood samples to capillary tubes with minimal spillage, is easy to manufacture, and economical, and reduces the risk of spillage, and is suitable for use in environments where hygiene is critical, such as hospital emergency rooms.
Smart Images
Figure 2026522727000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid sample transfer device, and more specifically to a blood sample transfer device for transferring a blood sample from a test container (e.g., a sealed blood sample tube) and further transferring the blood sample to a capillary tube. [Background technology]
[0002] Blood samples are typically collected from patients by venous puncture and blood collection from superficial veins in the upper extremities. The vein is punctured with a cannula that is in fluid communication with a test container (e.g., a blood sample tube). The test container is typically a sealed blood sample tube made of sterile glass or plastic, with one end closed and the other end covered with a rubber seal to form a vacuum seal. Air may be evacuated from the tube during manufacturing, creating a vacuum. The amount of air evacuated from the tube may be used to pre-determine the amount of blood to fill the tube before the blood flow stops. One of the test containers described in general terms is commercially available under the brand name "Vacutainer".
[0003] A blood sample tube is typically filled with blood by inserting a cannula into the patient's vein, then connecting the blood sample tube to the cannula, and finally puncturing its rubber seal.
[0004] Numerous devices are commercially available for transferring blood samples from sealed blood sample tubes to or into various sample testing devices.
[0005] The U-Pette has a base with a cannula protruding from one end. This cannula is fluidly connected to a tube emerging from the opposite end of the base. The base further includes two arms with finger grips protruding from its sides. When dispensing blood, the operator inserts the cannula through the rubber seal of the blood sample tube, inverts the tube, and uses the finger grips to press the device against the rubber seal, creating pressure inside the blood sample tube. This causes blood droplets to drip from the tube emerging from the base, dispensing until another droplet is pushed out and replaces the dripping droplet. This process exposes the free-flowing, dripping state of the blood droplets. These droplets typically drip from the device, so there is a risk of spillage. https: / / labcon.com / literature / U-Pette / Labconupette.html
[0006] The C-Pette has a circular base from which a cannula protrudes. This cannula is fluidly connected to a tube emerging from the opposite side of the base. The cannula is inserted through the rubber seal of the blood sample tube, and the circular base is designed to press against or contact a dedicated test cassette port, creating pressure within the blood sample tube, thereby dispensing the blood. Pressing down on the C-Pette when it is not connected to a dedicated cassette may cause blood droplets to drip from the device, posing a risk of spillage. The C-Pette is not suitable for blood transport via capillary tubes. https: / / labcon.com / literature / C-Pette / LabconC-Pette.html
[0007] DIFF-SAFE is a product similar to C-Pette, in which a cannula is inserted through a rubber seal and fluid-connected to the opposite side of the base. The base has a "tripod" configuration for pressing against the test plate. As a result, the base is pressed against the rubber seal, and a small amount of blood is released from the blood sample tube and dripped onto the test plate. http: / / www.alpha-scientific.com / Diff-safe2.html
[0008] In specific cases where it is necessary to transfer blood from a test container via capillary tubes, all of the above products are unsuitable because they expose free droplets of blood, posing a risk of blood spillage.
[0009] The HemoCup, or blood dispensing cup, is described in relation to the HemoScreen blood analyzer. The HemoCup comprises a cannula that penetrates the rubber seal of a blood test tube. The cannula is fluidly connected to an integrated closure cup or container, which has a side opening for inserting a capillary tube to further transfer the blood sample to another device via the capillary. The HemoCup allows blood to be sampled from the test tube by inserting the cannula through the rubber seal of the test tube, inverting the test tube, and then pressing the test tube toward a flat surface with the HemoCup attached, thereby forcing droplets of blood through the cannula and dripping into the blood collection cup. A capillary tube can then be inserted through the side opening to further collect and transfer the blood sample. The drawbacks of the HemoCup include the difficulty in controlling the amount of blood required for the capillary tube, and the fact that residual blood in the integrated cup can be a concern when positioning the device, as residual blood is not drawn back into the blood test tube when the pressure applied to the seal is released. Residual blood in the cup makes the system vulnerable to blood leakage. Additionally, the manufacturing of a closed, integrated cup is required, which is difficult and increases costs. Furthermore, the stability of the HemoCup and blood test tube may not be optimal because the device is intended to be pressed against a flat surface without operator support, which can limit the entry of the capillary tube into the integrated, closed cup. The HemoCup is described in the following document: “Pixcell Medical: HemoCup Instructions for Use Insert”
[0010] Therefore, none of the existing commercially available devices may be suitable for transferring blood samples for testing from closed sample tubes via capillaries without the risk of spillage, and are unacceptable for use in environments where hygiene is critical, such as hospital emergency rooms. Existing devices may also be impractical to use and difficult to manufacture.
[0011] The first objective of the present invention is to provide a device for rapidly and safely transferring a blood sample from a closed blood collection tube to a blood collection device such as a capillary tube, which is easy to manufacture, cost-effective, and has a low risk of spillage.
[0012] A second object of the present invention is to provide a method for the safe transfer of blood samples from a closed blood collection tube to a capillary tube, using an easily manufactured and economical device, while reducing or eliminating the risk of spillage. A third object of the present invention is to provide a method for transferring liquid samples from a test tube using the present invention. [Overview of the Initiative]
[0013] With the above problems and known solutions in mind, the present invention provides a device for transferring liquid test samples from a test container, in particular a device for transferring blood samples from a blood test tube via a sample collection unit such as a capillary tube, and an analytical apparatus.
[0014] The present invention is described and characterized in the principal claims, while the dependent claims describe other features of the present invention.
[0015] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a sample transfer device for transferring a liquid sample from a sealed test container, the sample transfer device is A longitudinal central axis defining the axial direction, the circumferential direction, and the radial direction, and A base having a radially extending upper base surface facing the axial direction and a base bottom surface facing the opposite direction from the axial direction, further comprising a neck portion extending axially from the upper base surface and a base projection portion extending from the base bottom surface. The neck portion comprises a cup having an upper rim, the upper rim of the cup defining an opening to the cup distal to the base, and a cup bottom positioned proximal to the base defining the bottom of the cup. The base projection comprises a cannula extending from the base projection in a direction substantially opposite to or opposite to the axial direction, and the cannula is in fluid communication with the bottom of the cup via a fluid conduit. The inner diameter of the cup is larger than the inner diameter of the fluid conduit, and the cup is configured to hold the liquid sample inside when in use.
[0016] The larger the diameter of the cup is than the fluid conduit, the easier it becomes to contain a certain amount of blood inside the cup.
[0017] The cup may preferably have a diameter large enough to accommodate the insertion of a sample collection unit, such as a capillary tube, into the cup. The sample collection unit may be made from a material such as glass, plastic, or other suitable material. The sample collection unit may rely on capillary action to draw the liquid sample into it.
[0018] Those skilled in the art will know that terms such as test container, test tube, liquid sample tube, blood sample tube, and blood collection tube may be used to describe similar objects as used herein.
[0019] Those skilled in the art will know that terms such as liquid samples and blood samples may be used to describe similar subjects in this specification.
[0020] In one embodiment, the cup is configured with a diameter and / or cross-sectional area adapted to reduce or eliminate the risk of the liquid sample spilling from the cup. The cup may be sized to reliably hold the liquid sample due to capillary action and surface tension of the liquid sample. The diameter or cross-sectional area may vary, for example, depending on the surface tension exhibited by the liquid sample. The liquid sample can be held in the cup when the device is held with the opening of the cup facing downwards toward the floor / ground.
[0021] In an exemplary configuration of the sample transfer device, the inner diameter of the bottom of the cup is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, 1.5 mm to 15 mm, 2 mm to 13 mm, 2.5 mm to 12 mm, 3 mm to 11 mm, 3.2 mm to 9 mm, 3.4 mm to 7 mm, or 3.5 mm to 5 mm. When within these ranges, the capillary action and surface tension of the liquid sample can hold a certain amount of blood in the cup, reduce or eliminate the risk of spillage, and contribute to inserting a sample collection unit such as a capillary into the cup.
[0022] In an exemplary configuration of the sample transfer device, the upper rim of the cup has a diameter or cross-sectional area that is equal to or larger than that of the bottom of the cup.
[0023] In an exemplary aspect of the sample transfer device, the axial range of the cup from the bottom of the cup to the upper rim of the cup is in the range of 2 mm to 30 mm, 3 mm to 25 mm, 4 mm to 20 mm, 4.5 mm to 15 mm, 5 mm to 11 mm, 6 mm to 9 mm, or 6.5 mm to 8 mm. As a result, it has a size suitable for obtaining an appropriate amount of blood in the cup.
[0024] In an exemplary aspect of the sample transfer device, the volume of the cup is 10 μL to 500 μL, 15 μL to 350 μL, 20 μL to 300 μL, 30 μL to 250 μL, 35 μL to 200 μL, 40 μL to 150 μL, 45 μL to 120 μL, 50 μL to 100 μL, 55 μL to 90 μL, 60 μL to 85 μL, or 70 μL to 80 μL.
[0025] In an exemplary aspect of the sample transfer device, the cross-sectional area of the cup distal to the bottom of the cup is equal compared to the cross-sectional area of the cup near the bottom of the cup, resulting in a linear end of the cup parallel to the axial direction.
[0026] In an exemplary aspect of the sample transfer device, the cross-sectional area of the cup distal to the bottom of the cup is larger compared to the cross-sectional area of the cup near the bottom of the cup, resulting in a conical shape of the cup.
[0027] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the cross-sectional area of the cup is equal at the bottom of the cup and at the top rim of the cup.
[0028] In one exemplary embodiment of a sample transfer device, the cross-sectional area of the cup is greater at the upper rim of the cup than at the bottom of the cup.
[0029] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the bottom of the cup has a rounded profile. This facilitates the filling of sample collection units, such as capillaries, because the opening to the capillary does not easily become clogged when the capillary is fully inserted into the cup.
[0030] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the base comprises at least two arms extending outward from the base bottom surface in a direction substantially opposite to the axial direction. The arms may serve as guides for the user when fitting the sample transfer device to a closed blood collection tube.
[0031] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, each arm is further provided with a finger grip extending radially from each arm at its distal end, from the base, for the user to firmly grasp the device.
[0032] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the device comprises a ring structure connected to an arm and extending circumferentially, the ring structure having a central opening suitable for receiving the insertion of the end of the test vessel. The ring structure provides rigidity to the device and further provides means for guiding the blood collection tube toward the cannula.
[0033] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the ring structure comprises an upper ring structure adjacent to the base and a lower ring structure distal to the base. The cannula extends for its maximum length from the base projection to the vertical level of the lower ring structure or to the vertical level between the upper and lower ring structures. This prevents the user from being punctured by the cannula and protects the cannula from potential damage from contact by external factors.
[0034] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the cannula extends 3 mm to 40 mm, 5 mm to 35 mm, 7.5 mm to 15 mm, 9 mm to 13 mm, or 10 mm to 12 mm from the base projection.
[0035] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the cup is made of a transparent material. This is to facilitate inspection if the device has already been used, or to determine the amount of blood in the cup.
[0036] In one exemplary embodiment of a sample transfer device, the arm is flexible for ergonomic reasons or for use in pressing against and stabilizing the test container.
[0037] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the volume displaced when the base projection is pressed against the sealing portion is equal to the volume of the cup, in order to easily fill the cup with an appropriate amount of blood.
[0038] In one exemplary embodiment of a sample transfer device, the cup has a plurality of cup protrusions on the inner wall of the cup configured to hold a liquid sample within the cup. The protrusions may be circular, may extend in the circumferential direction c, and may be ribbed, triangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, hexagonal, or any other suitable shape. The protrusions may not extend in the circumferential direction and may be confined to a region on the inner surface of the cup, for example, one protrusion may be 0.1 mm 2 ~1mm 2 The area may be covered and separated from adjacent protrusions. The protrusions may extend approximately 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, 0.2 mm to 1 mm, or 0.4 mm to 0.7 mm from the inner surface of the cup.
[0039] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the cup bottom is provided with at least one cup bottom stopper positioned at the bottom of the cup and protruding 0.5 mm to 4 mm, 0.5 mm to 3 mm, 0.5 mm to 2 mm, or 1 mm to 2 mm toward the upper rim of the cup, thereby ensuring a clearance between the sample collection unit and the cup bottom even when the sample collection unit is fully inserted into the cup. This ensures sufficient liquid flow from the cup into the sample collection unit.
[0040] The sample transfer device may be equipped with 1 to 10, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 bottom stoppers.
[0041] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the cup further comprises a cup end that defines a transition from the bottom to the top of the cup, The lower part of the cup is positioned proximal to the bottom of the cup, and the upper part of the cup is positioned distal to the bottom of the cup. The cross-sectional area of the upper part of the cup is larger distal to the edge of the cup than proximal to the edge of the cup. The angle between the upper side wall and the longitudinal central axis of the cup is greater than the angle between the lower side wall and the longitudinal central axis, thereby configuring the cup to hold a liquid sample in the lower part of the cup during use. The liquid sample held in the lower part of the cup can be protected by the upper side wall. The angle of the upper side wall can assist in the correct insertion of a sample collection unit, such as a capillary tube. This side wall can function as a funnel, making it easier to aim and insert the sample for collection.
[0042] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the angle between the side wall of the top of the cup and the longitudinal central axis is 15°–70°, 20°–65°, 25°–60°, 30°–55°, 35°–50°, 37°–45°, 38°–42°, or approximately 40°. The angle between the lower side wall of the cup and the longitudinal central axis is 0° to 25°, 3° to 20°, 5° to 17°, 7° to 15°, 8° to 12°, or approximately 10°.
[0043] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the volume at the bottom of the cup is 10 μL to 70 μL, 20 μL to 60 μL, 25 μL to 55 μL, 28 μL to 50 μL, 30 μL to 40 μL, 31 μL to 37 μL, 32 μL to 35 μL, or approximately 33 μL.
[0044] In one exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device, the volume of the top of the cup is 10 μL to 80 μL, 20 μL to 70 μL, 30 μL to 60 μL, 35 μL to 55 μL, 40 μL to 50 μL, 43 μL to 47 μL, or approximately 44 μL.
[0045] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for transferring a liquid sample from a sealed test container using a sample transfer device described in any or a combination thereof. The method includes the following steps: A. The step of puncturing the seal on the test container by inserting a cannula so that it penetrates the seal and enters the liquid sample. B. Optionally, the step of reorienting the test container together with the sample transfer device so that the liquid sample covers at least the tip of the cannula. C. A step of applying force to the sample transfer device so that the base protrusion is pressed against the sealing portion. D. The step of obtaining the liquid sample in the cup of the sample transfer device, E. The step of inserting the sample collection unit into the cup in order to fill the sample transfer unit with at least a portion of the liquid sample, and F. A step of using a sample collection unit to transfer at least a portion of a liquid sample to another device in order to collect at least a portion of the liquid sample.
[0046] The sample collection unit may be, for example, a capillary tube, which relies on capillary action to draw the liquid sample into the capillary tube, or a needle connected to a syringe to draw in the sample.
[0047] In one exemplary embodiment of the present method, the method further includes the following steps between step C and step D. A step to visually align the level of the liquid sample with the edge of the cup in order to obtain the appropriate amount of liquid sample.
[0048] In one exemplary embodiment of this method, the method further includes the following step after step E or F. A step to release the force applied in step C, allowing any residual liquid sample in the cup to be drawn into the test container. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0049] [Figure 1] A side view of one embodiment of a sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 2] A side view of one embodiment of a sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 3A] A side view of one embodiment of a sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 3B] A detailed side view of the cup and inlet of the sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 4] A side view of the sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 5] A perspective view of the sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 6A] This shows a top view of a sample transfer device having a cup bottom stopper positioned at the bottom of the cup. [Figure 6B] The bottom view of the sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 7] A cross-sectional view of the sample transfer device is shown. [Figure 8] This shows a cross-sectional view of the sample transfer device connected to the test container. [Figure 9A] This shows a sample transfer device connected to a test tube with a cannula immersed in a liquid sample. [Figure 9B] This shows a sample transfer device connected to a test tube, with a cannula immersed in the liquid sample and a capillary tube inserted into the cup, for transferring the liquid sample. [Figure 10]This shows a sample transfer device having a protrusion on the inner surface of the cup. [Modes for carrying out the invention]
[0050] Specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments and drawings contained herein. The present invention is particularly intended to include modified forms of embodiments (including parts of embodiments and combinations of elements of various embodiments). It should be understood that in developing any actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, specific judgments will be required to achieve the developer's specific objectives (e.g., conformity to system and / or business constraints). Furthermore, it should be understood that although such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, they are still routine design, production, and manufacturing tasks for those skilled in the art and have the advantages of this disclosure.
[0051] Figures 1 to 10 show various aspects and embodiments of the sample transfer device 1.
[0052] Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a sample transfer device 1 comprising a base 100 having a base upper surface 101 facing the axial direction z and a base bottom surface 102 facing the opposite direction. The sample transfer device has a longitudinal central axis A defining the axial direction z, circumferential direction c, and radial direction r. L It holds.
[0053] The base 100 extends in the radial direction r and may have an elliptical shape. It is also conceivable that the base 100 may have another suitable shape, such as a square, rectangle, or circle.
[0054] The hollow neck portion 107 extends axially z from the base portion 100 to the upper rim 124 of the cup, defining the cup 121. The upper rim 124 defines the top of the cup 121 and the opening 120 to the cup 121. The opening 120 is located distal to the base portion 100. The cup has a cup bottom portion 122 located proximal to the base portion 100, which may be located in the center of the upper surface 101 of the base portion.
[0055] A base projection extends from the base bottom surface 102 in the direction opposite to the axial direction z. The base projection 105 may be located in the center of the base bottom surface 102. The base projection 105 may be equipped with a fluid conduit 110 that is fluidly connected to a cannula 115 extending from the base projection. This establishes a fluid connection from the tip of the cannula 115 to the bottom of the cup 122, allowing fluids such as blood samples to enter the cup 121 via the cannula 115.
[0056] Figure 1 also shows that the bottom of the cup 122 has a rounded profile.
[0057] Cup 121 has a volume and shape adapted to receive and hold the liquid sample 170 without the risk of spillage. Although not bound by theory, the liquid sample 170 can be held in place by its viscosity and surface tension.
[0058] Two arms 130 may extend from the side of the base 100 in a direction opposite to the axial direction z. Each arm 130 has a proximal end 133 to which the arm 130 is fixed to the base 100, and a distal end 132 to which a finger grip 140 is attached and which may extend radially r. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the finger grip can be sized to be suitable for ergonomically accommodating the fingers of the user of the sample transfer device 1.
[0059] The sample transfer device 1 may optionally include a ring structure 131 connected to the arm 130 and extending circumferentially in the radial direction r. The ring structure 131 may be located in the central portion between the arms 130 and occupy a portion of the region between the distal end 132 and the proximal end 133 of the arm.
[0060] The ring structure 131 defines an opening 150 that provides access to the tip of the cannula 115 for the test container 50, as shown in Figures 8, 9A, and 9B.
[0061] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the sample transfer device 1 in which the side walls of the cup 121 are substantially parallel to the axial direction z. An embodiment of the sample transfer device in which the side walls of the cup 121 are parallel to the axial direction z can also be envisioned, in which case the cross-sectional area of the cup 121 is equal at the bottom 122 and the upper rim 124 of the cup.
[0062] Figure 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device 1 in which the cross-sectional area of the cup 121 at the upper rim 124 of the cup is larger than the cross-sectional area at the bottom 122 of the cup.
[0063] As shown in Figure 4, the ring structure may include an upper ring structure 131a and a lower ring structure 131b.
[0064] Returning to Figure 2, it is shown that the cannula 115 extends to the vertical level between the upper part 131a and the lower part 131b of the ring structure. This ensures that the cannula 115 is protected from potential damage from external objects, and that the user of the sample transfer device 1 is protected from any injury that could be caused by the sharp cannula 115 when handling the sample transfer device 1.
[0065] Figures 3A and 3B show another exemplary embodiment of the sample transfer device 1, wherein the cup has a characteristic cup end 123 that defines a transition from the lower cup 121a and the upper cup 121b. The lower cup is located proximal to the base 100, and the upper cup is located distal to the base 100.
[0066] As best shown in FIG. 3B, the lower cup portion 121a shows a side wall 121a1, and the upper cup portion 121b shows a side wall 121b1. The angle between the side wall 121a1 and the longitudinal central axis A L is represented as α y and the angle between the side wall 121b1 and the longitudinal central axis A L is represented as α x The angle α x may be larger than the angle α y That is, as the distance from the base 100 increases, the cross-sectional area of the upper cup portion 121b gradually becomes larger than the cross-sectional area of the lower cup portion 121a.
[0067] Without being bound by theory, this configuration may reduce or eliminate capillary action above the cup end 123, thus improving the retention of the liquid sample 170 in the lower cup portion 121a. This means that the tendency for the liquid sample 170 to be drawn upward at the side wall 121b1 is minimized or eliminated.
[0068] The cup end 123 may be a sharp end or may have a more rounded or gentle profile.
[0069] FIG. 5 provides a side view of the sample transfer device 1, showing the opening 120 of the neck portion 107 and the base protrusion 105 with the cannula 115 extending to the vertical level of the ring structure 131 and the finger grip 140 connected to the arm 130.
[0070] Figure 6A shows a top view of an embodiment of the sample transfer device 1 according to the present invention, showing the base 100, the centrally located opening 120, and the ring structure 131 and finger grip 140. Furthermore, a cup bottom stopper 126 located at the bottom of the cup 122 is shown. The cup bottom stopper 126 protrudes from the bottom of the cup toward the upper rim 124 of the cup. The cup bottom stopper 126 may extend, for example, 0.5 mm to 2 mm (e.g., 1 mm) in the axial z direction from the bottom of the cup 122. This prevents the cup bottom stopper 126 from reaching the bottom of the cup 122 when the sample collection unit 160 is fully inserted into the cup 121, so that there is always a gap between the sample collection unit 160, such as a capillary tube, and the cup bottom stopper 126. In this way, free flow of liquid into the sample collection unit 160 is ensured.
[0071] Figure 6B shows a bottom view of an embodiment of the sample transfer device 1, which comprises a base 100 and a ring structure 131, with a base projection 105 and a cannula 115 positioned in the center. The base projection 105 has a larger diameter than the cannula 115 and is fitted to abut against the seal 55 of the test container 50. The base projection 105 may be further configured such that the volume displaced within the test container when pressed against the flexible seal 55 is equal to the volume of the cup 121 or the lower part of the cup 121a. This allows the volume of the liquid test sample to be transferred through the cannula 115 to the cup 121 or the lower part of the cup 121a to be fitted to a suitable volume equal to or smaller than the volume of the cup 121 or the lower part of the cup 121a.
[0072] Figure 7 shows an embodiment of the sample transfer device 1, which includes an arm 130 and a finger grip 140, but lacks a ring structure 131. This configuration allows the arm 130 to have more flexibility when an appropriate amount of pressure is applied to it by the user of the sample transfer device 1, and further grants it the ability to contact or grip the test container 50. Figure 7 shows an example of a sample transfer device with a cup end 123. Those skilled in the art will recognize that all embodiments of the cup 121 presented herein are compatible with embodiments of the sample transfer device 1 in which the ring structure 131 is absent.
[0073] Figure 8 shows the sample transfer device 1 attached to the test container 50 with the cannula 115 inserted so as to penetrate the seal portion 55 of the test container 50. It is also shown that by applying force, the base projection 105 pushes the seal portion 55 downward, partially into the test container 50. Those skilled in the art will know that this results in pressure accumulating inside the test container 50, making it possible to discharge the contents of the container 50.
[0074] Figure 9A shows the sample transfer device 1 attached to the test container 50 with the cannula 115 inserted so as to penetrate the seal. The test container 50 is tilted together with the sample transfer device 1 so that the liquid sample 170 inside the test container 50 covers the tip of the cannula 115. This is also shown by the liquid meniscus 171 rising to the bottom of the test container 50, which is higher than the seal shown in Figures 9A and 9B.
[0075] Figure 9B shows the sample collection unit 160 inserted into the cup 121 of the sample transfer device. The sample transfer unit 160 may be a capillary tube or any other device suitable for inserting into the cup 121 and collecting the liquid sample 170 transferred from the test container 50 to the cup 121 via the cannula 115 and fluid conduit 110.
[0076] Figure 10 shows a sample transfer device 1 having a cup projection 125 on the inner surface of the lower part 121a of the cup. The cup projection 125 functions to keep the liquid sample within the lower part 121a of the cup. While not bound by theory, it is believed that an increase in surface area is at least part of the cause of this effect. It should be understood that the cup projection 125 may be shown in all embodiments disclosed herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that the cup projection 125 does not have to be limited to the lower part 121a of the cup, but may be on the upper part 121b of the cup or on the entire surface of the cup 121 where there is no cup edge 123.
[0077] Referring to all the figures above, the user can utilize the sample transfer device 1 by following the sequential steps below. A. The step of perforating the seal portion 55 on the test container 50 by inserting the cannula 115 so that it penetrates the seal portion 55 and enters the liquid sample 170, B. Optionally, the step of changing the orientation of the test container 50 together with the sample transfer device 1 so that the liquid sample 170 covers the cannula 115. C. A step of applying force to the sample transfer device 1 so that the base protrusion 105 is pressed against the sealing portion 55. D. The step of obtaining the liquid sample 170 in the cup 121 of the sample transfer device 1, E. The step of inserting the sample collection unit 160 into the cup 121 in order to fill the sample collection unit 160 with at least a portion of the liquid sample 170, and F. A step of using a sample collection unit 160 to transfer the liquid sample 170 to another device in order to collect the liquid sample.
[0078] This method involves the following steps between step C and step D: To obtain an appropriate amount of liquid sample 170, the step of visually aligning the level of the liquid sample 170 with the edge 123 of the cup. This may further include:
[0079] This method, after step E or F, The step may further include releasing the force applied in step C in order to allow any residual liquid sample 170 in cup 121 to be drawn into the test container 50.
[0080] For clarity, it should be understood that certain features of the present invention described above in relation to separate embodiments may be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features of the present invention described in relation to a single embodiment may be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0081] TIFF2026522727000002.tif255169
Claims
1. A sample transfer device (1) for transferring a liquid sample from a sealed test container (50), A longitudinal central axis (A) defines the axial direction (z), the circumferential direction (c), and the radial direction (r). Ｌ ), and A base (100) that extends in the radial direction (r) and has a base upper surface (101) facing the axial direction (z) and a base bottom surface (102) facing the opposite direction from the axial direction (z), A neck portion (107) extending in the axial direction (z) from the upper surface (101) of the base, A base projection (105) extending from the base bottom surface (102) and A base (100) further equipped with Equipped with, The aforementioned neck portion (107) A cup (121) having an upper cup rim (124), wherein the upper cup rim (124) defines an opening (120) distal to the base (100) to the cup (121), and A cup bottom (122) is positioned near the base (100) and defines the bottom of the cup (121). Equipped with, The base projection (105) includes a cannula (115) extending from the base projection (105) in a direction substantially opposite to the axial direction (z), The cannula (115) is in fluid communication with the bottom of the cup (122) via the fluid conduit (110), A sample transfer device (1) wherein the inner diameter of the cup (121) is larger than the inner diameter of the fluid conduit (110), and the cup (121) is configured to hold the liquid sample inside the cup (121) when in use.
2. The sample transfer device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cup (121) is configured to have a diameter and / or cross-sectional area adapted to reduce or eliminate the risk of liquid sample spilling from the cup (121).
3. The sample transfer device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the inner diameter of the cup bottom (122) is within the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, 1.5 mm to 15 mm, 2 mm to 13 mm, 2.5 mm to 12 mm, 3 mm to 11 mm, 3.2 mm to 9 mm, 3.4 mm to 7 mm, or 3.5 mm to 5 mm.
4. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the axial (z) range of the cup (121) from the bottom of the cup (122) to the upper rim of the cup (124) is within the range of 2 mm to 30 mm, 3 mm to 25 mm, 4 mm to 20 mm, 4.5 mm to 15 mm, 5 mm to 11 mm, 6 mm to 9 mm, or 6.5 mm to 8 mm.
5. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the volume of the cup (121) is 10 μL to 500 μL, 15 μL to 350 μL, 20 μL to 300 μL, 30 μL to 250 μL, 35 μL to 200 μL, 40 μL to 150 μL, 45 μL to 120 μL, 50 μL to 100 μL, 55 μL to 90 μL, 60 μL to 85 μL, or 70 μL to 80 μL.
6. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cross-sectional area of the cup (121) distal to the cup bottom (122) is equal to or greater than the cross-sectional area of the cup (121) proximal to the cup bottom (122).
7. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the bottom of the cup (122) has a rounded profile.
8. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base (100) comprises at least two arms (130) extending outward from the base bottom surface (102) in a direction substantially opposite to the axial direction (z).
9. The sample transfer device (1) according to claim 8, wherein each of the arms (130) further comprises a finger grip (140) extending radially (r) from each of the arms (130) at an end distal to the base (100).
10. The sample transfer device (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the sample transfer device (1) comprises a ring structure (131) connected to the arm (130) and extending in the circumferential direction (c), the ring structure having a central opening (150) suitable for receiving the insertion of the end of the test container (50).
11. The ring structure (131) is The upper part of the ring structure (131a) adjacent to the base (100), and The ring structure bottom (131b) distal to the base (100) The sample transfer device (1) according to claim 10, wherein the cannula (115) extends for its maximum length from the base projection (105) to the vertical level of the bottom of the ring structure (131b) or to the vertical level between the upper part of the ring structure (131a) and the bottom of the ring structure (131b).
12. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cup (121) is made of a transparent material.
13. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the arm (130) is flexible.
14. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the volume displaced when the base projection (105) is pressed against the sealing portion (55) is equal to the volume of the cup (121).
15. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the cup (121) has a plurality of cup protrusions (125) on the inner wall of the cup (121) configured to hold a liquid sample in the cup (121).
16. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the cup bottom (122) is provided with at least one cup bottom stopper (126) positioned on the cup bottom (122) and protruding 0.5 mm to 2 mm toward the cup upper rim (124).
17. The aforementioned cup (121) Cup end (123) defining the transition from the lower part of the cup (121a) to the upper part of the cup (121b) Furthermore, The lower part of the cup (121a) is positioned proximal to the bottom of the cup (122), and the upper part of the cup (121b) is positioned distal to the bottom of the cup (122). The cross-sectional area of the upper part of the cup (121b) is larger distal to the cup end (123) than proximal to the cup end (123). The side wall (121b1) of the upper part (121b) of the cup and the longitudinal central axis (A Ｌ The angle between (α) ｘ ) is connected to the side wall (121a1) of the lower part of the cup (121a) and the longitudinal central axis (A Ｌ The angle between (α) ｙ The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the cup (121) is larger than the cup (121a) and is configured to hold a liquid sample in the lower part of the cup (121a) when in use.
18. The upper part of the cup (121b) and the side wall (121b1) and the longitudinal central axis (A Ｌ The angle between (α) ｘ ) are 15° to 70°, 20° to 65°, 25° to 60°, 30° to 55°, 35° to 50°, 37° to 45°, 38° to 42°, or approximately 40°. The angle (α Ｌ between the side wall (121a1) of the lower cup (121a) and the longitudinal central axis (A ｙ ) is 0° to 25°, 3° to 20°, 5° to 17°, 7° to 15°, 8° to 12°, or about 10°, and the sample transfer device (1) according to claim 17.
19. The sample transfer device (1) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the volume of the lower part of the cup (121a) is 10 μL to 70 μL, 20 μL to 60 μL, 25 μL to 55 μL, 28 μL to 50 μL, 30 μL to 40 μL, 31 μL to 37 μL, 32 μL to 35 μL, or approximately 33 μL.
20. The sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the volume of the upper part (121b) of the cup is 10 μL to 80 μL, 20 μL to 70 μL, 30 μL to 60 μL, 35 μL to 55 μL, 40 μL to 50 μL, 43 μL to 47 μL, or approximately 44 μL.
21. A method for transferring a liquid sample from a sealed test container (50) sealed in a sealing section (55) by using a sample transfer device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, A. The step of perforating the sealing portion (55) on the sealed test container (50) by inserting the cannula (115) so that it penetrates the sealing portion (55) and enters the liquid sample, B. Optionally, the step of changing the orientation of the test container (50) together with the sample transfer device (1) so that the liquid sample (170) covers at least the tip of the cannula (115), C. A step of applying force to the sample transfer device (1) so that the base projection (105) is pressed against the sealing portion (55), D. The step of obtaining the liquid sample in the cup (121) of the sample transfer device (1), E. The steps of inserting the sample collection unit into the cup (121) in order to fill the sample collection unit with at least a portion of the liquid sample (170), and F. A step of using a sample collection unit (160) for transferring at least a portion of the liquid sample (170) to another device in order to collect at least a portion of the liquid sample. A method that includes this.
22. Between step C and step D, To obtain an appropriate amount of liquid sample, the step of visually adjusting the level of the liquid sample to the edge (123) of the cup. The method according to claim 21, further comprising:
23. After step E or F, The step of releasing the force applied in step C in order to allow any residual liquid sample in the cup (121) to be drawn into the test container (50). The method according to claim 21 or 22, further comprising: