Devices, systems, and methods for sample capture and extraction

Abstract

To provide methods, apparatuses and systems associated with aerosol collection devices (including but not limited to breath-aerosol collector devices, breathalyzers and the like).SOLUTION: An example aerosol collection device includes a sample transfer adapter configured to receive a sample, and a device body connected to the sample transfer adapter. In some examples, the device body defines a flow channel that guides the sample to a filter component, and the filter component contains a buffer solution.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6J

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 198,609 (filed October 29, 2020) and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 154,476 (filed February 26, 2021), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] Existing methods, devices, and systems for collecting aerosols are plagued by challenges and limitations.

[0003]

[0003] For example, the shelf life, efficiency, and / or accuracy of these devices may be limited due to various factors, such as, but not limited to, structural limitations and / or contamination risks. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to various examples of the present disclosure, various exemplary methods, apparatus, and systems for sample capture and extraction (such as, but not limited to, aerosol collection devices) are provided.

[0005] In some embodiments, an aerosol collection device is provided, including: a sample transfer adapter configured to receive a sample; and a device body connected to the sample transfer adapter, the device body defining a flow channel that guides the sample to a filter component, the filter component containing a buffer solution.

[0006] In some embodiments, the device body includes a reservoir component having a sample distribution ring member, and in some embodiments, the buffer is contained in at least one of a first side of the filter component adjacent to the sample distribution ring member or a second side of the filter component opposite the first side.

[0007] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is a sampling tunnel.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is a mask component.

[0009] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further comprises an extraction cartridge.

[0010] In some embodiments, the device body includes a sample liquid extraction outlet, and in some embodiments, the extraction cartridge includes one or more piercing members configured to extend at least partially into the sample liquid extraction outlet.

[0011]

[0011] In some embodiments, the device body includes a container component including at least one capsule extraction body member; at least one capsule component positioned on an upper surface of the at least one capsule extraction body member; and an upper plunger component positioned on an upper surface of the at least one capsule component.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one capsule component stores a buffer solution.

[0013]

[0013] In some embodiments, each of the at least one capsule component includes a holder member and a cap member, hi some embodiments, the buffer solution is sealed within the holder member by the cap member.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one capsule extraction body member includes a protrusion positioned on an upper surface of the at least one capsule extraction body member, and in some embodiments, the cap member is positioned on the protrusion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the container component includes at least two vertical ridge members disposed on an inner lateral surface of the container component, and at least a portion of each of the at least one capsule component is positioned between the at least two vertical ridge members.

[0016]

[0016] In some embodiments, in response to receiving a vertically downward force applied to an upper surface of the upper plunger component, the upper plunger component is configured to transmit the vertically downward force to at least one capsule component, causing vertical movement of the at least one capsule component.

[0017] In some embodiments, the vertical movement of the at least one capsule component causes the at least one capsule extraction body member to break the cap member of each of the at least one capsule component.

[0018] In some embodiments, after the cap member is broken, the buffer solution flows over the filter component.

[0019] In some embodiments, the container component further includes a sample distribution ring member including a plurality of holes, and a valve support ring member disposed within the sample distribution ring member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the at least one capsule extraction body member is positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member.

[0021] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further includes a tubing component secured to the sample distribution ring; and a valve component supported by the valve support ring.

[0022] In some embodiments, the filter component is interposed between the sample distribution ring member and the at least one capsule extraction body member. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further includes a lower plunger component positioned above the upper surface of the filter component.

[0023] In some embodiments, the lower plunger component includes a plurality of plunger support wings, each of which is positioned between two capsule components.

[0024] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component is configured to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration due to a rotational force. In some embodiments, in the first configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts a respective top surface of the at least one capsule component. In some embodiments, in the second configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts a respective top surface of the plurality of plunger support wings.

[0025] In some embodiments, a vessel component is provided having an inner bottom surface and an inner side surface. In some embodiments, the vessel component includes a sample distribution ring member positioned on the inner bottom surface of the vessel component, a valve support ring member positioned within the sample distribution ring member, at least one filter support body member positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member on the inner bottom surface of the vessel component, and at least one capsule extraction body member positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member on the inner bottom surface of the vessel component.

[0026] In some embodiments, at least one capsule extraction body member is positioned between an inner bottom surface of the container component and an inner side surface of the container component.

[0027] In some embodiments, at least one filter support body member is positioned between the interior bottom surface of the container component and the interior side surface of the container component.

[0028] In some embodiments, each of the at least one capsule extraction body member is positioned between two filter support body members.

[0029] In some embodiments, the valve support collar includes a plurality of support beams.

[0030]

[0030] In some embodiments, the container component further includes at least one horizontal ridge member disposed on an inner lateral surface of the container component and at least one vertical ridge member disposed on an inner lateral surface of the container component.

[0031] In some embodiments, the at least one horizontal ridge member and the at least one vertical ridge member are connected and in a vertical arrangement.

[0032] In some embodiments, the at least one vertical ridge member includes at least one vertical locking ridge member and at least one vertical stop ridge member.

[0033] In some embodiments, the tubing component includes a pipe member and a vent bluff annulus element. In some embodiments, the pipe member has a top portion and a bottom portion. In some embodiments, the top portion is connected to the bottom portion and forms at least a portion of a flow channel for receiving a sample. In some embodiments, the vent bluff annulus element surrounds the top portion of the pipe member.

[0034] In some embodiments, the vent bluff ring has at least one opening on a side surface of the vent bluff ring.

[0035] In some embodiments, the lower plunger component includes a plunger ring member having an outer lateral surface and at least one plunger support wing disposed on the outer lateral surface, hi some embodiments, the at least one plunger support wing includes a bottom portion and a lateral portion.

[0036] In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the at least one plunger support wing is in a perpendicular orientation relative to the side portion of the at least one plunger support wing.

[0037] In some embodiments, the plunger ring includes at least one plunger leg component extending inwardly toward a central axis of the plunger ring and perpendicularly disposed relative to an inner lateral surface of the plunger ring.

[0038] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component includes a plunger body member and a plunger head member secured to the plunger body member.

[0039] In some embodiments, the plunger body member further includes a central ring portion; an intermediate ring portion; and at least one leg portion. In some embodiments, the central ring portion is positioned within the intermediate ring portion. In some embodiments, the at least one leg portion is connected to the intermediate ring portion and positioned radically outward from the intermediate ring portion.

[0040]

[0040] In some embodiments, the first end of the central ring portion is partially connected to the first end of the intermediate ring portion, forming at least a portion of at least one vent channel between the central ring portion and the intermediate ring portion.

[0041]

[0041] In some embodiments, a first end of at least one leg portion is connected to a first end of the intermediate ring portion and forms at least a portion of a ring groove on the upper surface of the plunger body member.

[0042] In some embodiments, the side surface of the plunger body member defines an O-ring groove.

[0043] In some embodiments, the plunger head member includes an annular projection extending from a bottom surface of the plunger head member.

[0044] In some embodiments, the plunger head member defines a central bore and one or more apertures positioned radially outward from the central bore.

[0045]

[0045] In some embodiments, a method for assembling an aerosol collection device includes the steps of providing a container component including at least a valve support ring member and a sample distribution ring member; inserting a filter component between the sample distribution ring member and at least one of the filter support body member or capsule extraction body member of the container component; positioning a valve component on the valve support ring member; fixing a tube component to the sample distribution ring member; positioning at least one capsule component on the upper surface of the capsule extraction body member; positioning a lower plunger component on the upper surface of the filter component; and fixing an upper plunger component on the upper surface of the at least one capsule component.

[0046] In some embodiments, the valve support collar includes a plurality of support beams. In some embodiments, the valve component is supported by a plurality of support beams.

[0047] In some embodiments, the valve component is positioned between the plurality of support beams of the valve support ring member and the inner surface of the intermediate portion of the pipe member of the tube component.

[0048] In some embodiments, the tubing component is secured to the sample distribution collar through a sliding interference fit.

[0049] In some embodiments, at least one capsule component is secured between at least two vertical ridge members of the container component.

[0050] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component is secured to the inner lateral surface of the container component through an O-ring.

[0051] In some embodiments, the method further includes securing a cap component over the upper plunger component.

[0052] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a container component, the container component including a sample distribution ring member, a valve support ring member within the sample distribution ring member, and / or at least one capsule extraction body member positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a valve component supported by the valve support ring member, a tube component fixed to the sample distribution ring member, at least one capsule component positioned on an upper surface of the at least one capsule extraction body member, and / or an upper plunger component positioned on an upper surface of the at least one capsule component.

[0053] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a filter component interposed between a sample distribution ring member and at least one capsule extraction body member; and a lower plunger component positioned above an upper surface of the filter component. In some embodiments, the sample distribution ring member includes a plurality of holes.

[0054] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a cap component secured to the upper plunger component.

[0055]

[0055] In some embodiments, a method for operating an aerosol collection device includes the steps of removing a cap component of the aerosol collection device from an upper plunger component of the aerosol collection device; connecting a sample transfer adapter to a flow channel defined by the upper plunger component and the tubing component; and causing sample flow into the aerosol collection device through the flow channel so that the sample contacts a buffer solution in the aerosol collection device.

[0056] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes at least one capsule component that stores a buffer solution. In some embodiments, connecting the sample transfer adapter to the flow channel causes release of the buffer solution from the at least one capsule component to a filter component in the aerosol collection device.

[0057] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component is positioned above the top surface of at least one capsule component.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method includes exerting a rotational force on the upper plunger component, causing the upper plunger component to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration. In some embodiments, in the first configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts a top surface of the at least one capsule component, and in the second configuration, the bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts a top surface of the lower plunger component. In some embodiments, the method includes exerting a vertical downward force on a top surface of the upper plunger component when the upper plunger component is in the second configuration, causing the lower plunger component to press against the filter component.

[0059]

[0059] In some embodiments, the method includes connecting a sample extraction device to an aerosol collection device and extracting the buffer solution.

[0060]

[0060] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter includes a sampling channel configured to deliver a sample to the sample inlet portion of the device body.

[0061] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter further comprises an attachment member configured to connect the sample transfer adapter to the device body portion, hi some embodiments, the attachment member defines at least a portion of the sampling channel.

[0062]

[0062] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter further includes one or more adapter ventilation members that define at least a portion of the dispense flow path and facilitate delivery of dispensed sample from the device body to the surrounding environment.

[0063] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is a sampling tunnel.

[0064] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is a mask component.

[0065] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is at least one of a sampling tunnel or a mask component.

[0066] In some embodiments, the mask component includes one or more facial interface members, the one or more facial interface members configured to engage at least a portion of the user's face.

[0067]

[0067] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is configured to engage one or more surfaces of the device body portion so as to provide at least a substantially airtight seal around the sample exhaust outlet portion of the device body portion.

[0068]

[0068] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter includes a sampling hood component including a hood internal cavity, the hood internal cavity configured to receive sample from the device body portion via the sample exhaust outlet portion.

[0069]

[0069] In some embodiments, the sampling hood component further includes a sampling hood outlet portion that is fluidly connected to the hood internal cavity and defines a dispensing flow path to facilitate dispensing of the sample from the hood internal cavity to a downstream environment that is fluidly connected to the sampling hood outlet portion.

[0070] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter includes a sample transfer adapter inlet configured to receive a sample. In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is configured for attachment to an aerosol collection device body, the aerosol collection device body including a filter component disposed therein for filtering the sample.

[0071]

[0071] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter further comprises a sampling channel configured to deliver a sample to the sample inlet portion of the aerosol collection device body portion.

[0072] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter further comprises a mounting member configured to connect the sample transfer adapter to the aerosol collection device body, hi some embodiments, the mounting member defines at least a portion of the sampling channel.

[0073]

[0073] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter further includes one or more adapter ventilation members that define at least a portion of the dispense flow path and facilitate delivery of the dispensed sample released from the aerosol collection device body to the surrounding environment.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mask component includes one or more facial interface members, the one or more facial interface members configured to engage at least a portion of the user's face.

[0075]

[0075] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is further configured to engage one or more surfaces of the aerosol collection device body portion so as to provide at least a substantially airtight seal around the sample exhaust outlet portion of the aerosol collection device body portion.

[0076]

[0076] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter further includes a sampling hood component including a hood internal cavity, the hood internal cavity configured to receive dispensed sample released from the aerosol collection device main body portion through the sample exhaust outlet portion.

[0077]

[0077] In some embodiments, the sampling hood component further includes a sampling hood outlet portion that is fluidly connected to the hood internal cavity and defines a dispensing flow path to facilitate delivery of the dispensed sample from the hood internal cavity to a downstream environment that is fluidly connected to the sampling hood outlet portion.

[0078]

[0078] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a capsule extraction body member and at least one capsule component, the at least one capsule component storing a buffer solution and positioned on the capsule extraction body member.

[0079]

[0079] In some embodiments, each of the at least one capsule component includes a holder member and a cap member, hi some embodiments, the buffer solution is sealed within the holder member by the cap member.

[0080] In some embodiments, the cap member is attached to the holder member via a chemical adhesive.

[0081] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a container component having an inner lateral surface.

[0082] In some embodiments, the container component includes at least two vertical ridge members disposed on the inner lateral surface, and at least a portion of each of the at least one capsule component is positioned between the at least two vertical ridge members.

[0083] In some embodiments, the container component includes at least one horizontal ridge member disposed on an inner lateral surface of the aerosol collection device, and in some embodiments, at least an upper surface of each of the at least one capsule component is coplanar with an upper surface of the at least one horizontal ridge member.

[0084] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further comprises a first capsule component that stores a first buffer solution and a second capsule component that stores a second buffer solution.

[0085] In some embodiments, the first buffer is the same as the second buffer.

[0086] In some embodiments, the first buffer is different from the second buffer.

[0087] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further comprises a first capsule component, a second capsule component, and a third capsule component.

[0088] In some embodiments, the capsule extraction body member includes a protrusion positioned on an upper surface of the capsule extraction body member, hi some embodiments, the cap member of the capsule component is positioned on the protrusion.

[0089]

[0089] In some embodiments, an air gap is formed between the top surface of the capsule extraction body member and the cap member.

[0090]

[0090] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes at least one capsule component that stores a buffer solution; and an upper plunger component in contact with the top surface of the at least one capsule component.

[0091]

[0091] In some embodiments, each of the at least one capsule component includes a holder member defining a cavity, the cavity having an opening above the bottom surface of the corresponding capsule component and storing a buffer solution, and a cap member sealing the opening of the holder member.

[0092] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component contacts the top surface of the holder member. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cap member contacts the capsule extraction body member.

[0093]

[0093] In some embodiments, in response to receiving a vertically downward force applied to an upper surface of the upper plunger component, the upper plunger component is configured to transmit the vertically downward force to at least one capsule component, causing vertical movement of the at least one capsule component.

[0094]

[0094] In some embodiments, vertical movement of the at least one capsule component causes the capsule extraction body member to break the cap member of each of the at least one capsule component.

[0095]

[0095] In some embodiments, after the cap member is broken, the buffer solution flows onto the capsule extraction body member.

[0096] In some embodiments, a filter component is positioned adjacent to the capsule extraction body member, hi some embodiments, after the cap member is broken, the buffer solution flows to the filter component.

[0097]

[0097] In some embodiments, a method for operating an aerosol collection device includes the steps of exerting a vertical downward force on an upper surface of an upper plunger to cause the release of buffer solution from within at least one capsule component onto a filter component; and providing a sample to the filter component.

[0098] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes an upper plunger component including a central ring portion and an intermediate ring portion. In some embodiments, the central ring portion is disposed within the intermediate ring portion, forming a gap between the central and intermediate ring portions. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a tubing component including a vented bluff ring member. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the central ring portion is positioned within and in contact with the vented bluff ring member.

[0099] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component includes a plunger head member defining a central bore, hi some embodiments, the tubing component includes a pipe member connected to the central bore and forming a portion of a flow channel for receiving a sample.

[0100]

[0100] In some embodiments, the central and intermediate ring portions define a portion of a vent channel for expelling the sample.

[0101] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a lower plunger component including a plurality of plunger support wings; and an upper plunger component configured to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration by a rotational force. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of plunger support wings is positioned between two of the plurality of capsule components. In some embodiments, in the first configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts a top surface of each of the plurality of capsule components, and in the second configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts a top surface of each of the plurality of plunger support wings.

[0102] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component includes at least one leg portion, wherein in a first configuration, a bottom surface of the at least one leg portion contacts a respective top surface of the plurality of capsule components, and in a second configuration, a bottom surface of the at least one leg portion contacts a respective top surface of the plurality of plunger support wings.

[0103]

[0103] In some embodiments, the lower plunger component and the upper plunger component are housed within a container component, and the container component has at least one vertical locking ridge member and at least one vertical stop ridge member disposed on an inner lateral surface of the container component.

[0104]

[0104] In some embodiments, the rotational force causes at least a portion of at least one leg portion to rotate past at least one vertical locking ridge member and to stop at at least one vertical stop ridge member.

[0105] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a lower plunger component and an upper plunger component. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the lower plunger component is in contact with the filter component. In some embodiments, the upper plunger component is in contact with the top surface of the lower plunger component.

[0106]

[0106] In some embodiments, in response to receiving a vertical force applied to the upper surface of the upper plunger component, the upper plunger component is configured to transmit the vertical force to the lower plunger component, causing vertical movement of the lower plunger component when the lower plunger component is in the second configuration.

[0107]

[0107] In some embodiments, vertical movement of the lower plunger component causes the filter component to be squeezed.

[0108] In some embodiments, a method for operating an aerosol collection device includes exerting a rotational force on an upper plunger component, causing the upper plunger component to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration. In some embodiments, in the first configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts an upper surface of each of the plurality of capsule components, and in the second configuration, the bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts an upper surface of each of the plurality of plunger support wings of the lower plunger component. In some embodiments, the method for operating an aerosol collection device further includes exerting a vertical force on the upper surface of the upper plunger component.

[0109] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a device body configured to receive a sample. In some embodiments, the device body includes a filter component disposed within the inner device body portion to filter the sample, and a sample distribution ring member fluidly connected to the filter component. In some embodiments, the sample distribution ring member is configured to receive the sample and deliver at least a portion of the sample to one or more portions of the filter component.

[0110]

[0110] In some embodiments, the sample distribution ring member includes one or more sample distribution members, which are configured to promote distribution of the sample throughout the filter element.

[0111]

[0111] In some embodiments, each of the one or more sample distribution members is configured to distribute at least a portion of the sample to a respective filter portion of a plurality of distributed filter portions defined throughout the filter element.

[0112] In some embodiments, the filter component includes an at least substantially cylindrical configuration defined at least in part by a substantially cylindrical inner filter. In some embodiments, the sample distribution ring member includes a sample distribution ring member sidewall, and the device body member is configured such that an outer surface of the sample distribution ring member is positioned at least substantially adjacent to a surface of the inner filter.

[0113]

[0113] In some embodiments, one or more sample distribution members include a plurality of orifices extending through the sample distribution ring member side wall portion of the sample distribution ring member, each of the plurality of orifices defining a fluid connection between the sample distribution ring member and the filter component.

[0114]

[0114] In some embodiments, the plurality of orifices are configured to promote at least substantially uniform annular distribution of the sample from the sample distribution ring member to the inner filter surface.

[0115]

[0115] In some embodiments, the filter element is configured to receive a sample and capture aerosols from the sample within the filter element.

[0116]

[0116] In some embodiments, the filter element is wetted with a buffer solution.

[0117]

[0117] In some embodiments, the buffer is configured to cause the captured aerosol disposed within the filter component to remain at least partially in a liquid state.

[0118]

[0118] In some embodiments, the filter element is configured to allow a predetermined volume of air defined by the aerosol-depleted portion of the sample received by the filter element to flow upward along the length of the filter element to the upper boundary of the filter element.

[0119]

[0119] In some embodiments, the filter component is further configured to allow a predetermined volume of air defined by the aerosol-removed portion of the sample to emerge from the upper boundary of the filter component into a breathalyzer chamber, the breathalyzer chamber being positioned above the filter component and configured to receive the predetermined volume of air.

[0120] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a device body configured to receive a sample. In some embodiments, the device body includes a housing including one or more exterior surfaces and defining an internal device body portion therein; a filter component disposed within the internal device body portion for filtering the sample; and an observation orifice configured to define a line of sight to at least a portion of the filter component. In some embodiments, the line of sight extends through at least a portion of the one or more exterior surfaces of the housing.

[0121] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further comprises at least one transparent member configured to cover a surface area of ​​the observation orifice.

[0122]

[0122] In some embodiments, at least one transparent member embodies a magnifying member, the magnifying member configured to visually magnify at least a portion of a filter component positioned within the line of sight.

[0123]

[0123] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device further comprises a plurality of observation orifices.

[0124]

[0124] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of observation orifices is configured to define a respective line of sight to a respective breath analyzer component disposed within the internal device body portion, with each line of sight extending through a respective portion of one or more exterior surfaces of the housing.

[0125]

[0125] In some embodiments, each of the multiple observation orifices is configured to define a respective line of sight to a respective portion of the filter component, with each line of sight extending through a respective portion of one or more exterior surfaces of the housing.

[0126]

[0126] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the filter component in the line of sight is positioned at least substantially adjacent to the observation orifice.

[0127] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a device body configured to receive a sample and an extraction cartridge configured to extract a predetermined volume of sample liquid from within the device body. In some embodiments, the device body includes a filter component disposed within the device body to capture the sample. In some embodiments, the device body provides the predetermined volume of sample liquid therein.

[0128]

[0128] In some embodiments, the predetermined volume of sample liquid comprises a buffer and an aerosol.

[0129]

[0129] In some embodiments, the device body further comprises a sample liquid extraction outlet comprising an opening extending through the bottom surface of the device body along the central axis of the device body.

[0130]

[0130] In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge comprises one or more attachment means configured to attach the extraction cartridge to the sample liquid extraction outlet.

[0131]

[0131] In some embodiments, the device body includes a groove component disposed on a bottom surface of the device body.

[0132]

[0132] In some embodiments, the gutter component is configured to fluidly isolate the sample liquid extraction outlet from a predetermined volume of sample liquid within the device body.

[0133]

[0133] In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge comprises one or more attachment means configured to attach the extraction cartridge to the sample liquid extraction outlet.

[0134]

[0134] In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge further comprises one or more puncturing means configured to puncture a groove component of the device body portion when the extraction cartridge is attached to the sample liquid extraction outlet portion.

[0135]

[0135] In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge includes an extraction plunger disposed within a cylindrically shaped cartridge body of the extraction cartridge.

[0136]

[0136] In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge is configured to extract a predetermined volume of sample liquid from within the device body based at least in part on a pressure differential generated by an extraction plunger.

[0137]

[0137] In some embodiments, the extraction plunger is configured to generate a pressure differential based at least in part on displacement along the central axis of the cylindrical cartridge body.

[0138]

[0138] In some embodiments, a method for extracting sample liquid from an aerosol collection device includes providing sample liquid into a device body; and extracting the sample liquid from the device body through a sample liquid extraction outlet that includes an opening extending through a bottom surface of the device body.

[0139]

[0139] In some embodiments, the method includes attaching the extraction cartridge to the sample liquid extraction outlet via one or more attachment means defined at least in part by the extraction cartridge.

[0140]

[0140] In some embodiments, the step of attaching the extraction cartridge to the sample liquid extraction outlet portion includes a step of puncturing a groove component disposed around the bottom surface of the device body portion when the extraction cartridge is attached to the sample liquid extraction outlet portion.

[0141]

[0141] In some embodiments, the step of puncturing a groove component disposed around the bottom surface of the device body creates a fluid communication path between the device body and an extraction cartridge attached thereto.

[0142] In some embodiments, the method further includes generating a pressure differential between the device body and an extraction cartridge connected to the sample liquid extraction outlet, hi some embodiments, the sample liquid is extracted from within the device body by the extraction cartridge based at least in part on the generated pressure differential.

[0143] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving sample liquid extracted from the device body in an extraction cartridge connected to the sample liquid extraction outlet; determining that the extraction cartridge has received a maximum volume of sample liquid that can be received by the extraction cartridge; and generating an alarm signal indicating that the extraction cartridge has reached its sample liquid volume capacity. In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge is defined at least in part by a sample liquid volume capacity that corresponds to the maximum volume of sample liquid that can be received by the extraction cartridge.

[0144]

[0144] In some embodiments, the method further comprises the step of disconnecting the extraction cartridge from the sample liquid extraction outlet portion of the device.

[0145]

[0145] The foregoing illustrative objectives and other illustrative objectives and / or advantages of the present disclosure, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, are further explained in the following detailed description and its accompanying drawings.

[0146]

[0146] The description of the examples for illustrative purposes may be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. It will be recognized that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, components and members shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale unless otherwise noted. For example, the dimensions of some of the components or members may be exaggerated relative to other members unless otherwise noted. Examples incorporating the teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with reference to the figures presented herein. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0147] [Figure 1A]

[0147] An illustrative diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B]

[0148] 1 is an illustrative diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C]

[0149] 1 is an illustrative diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A]

[0150] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary container components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary container components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 2C] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary container components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 2D] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary container components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 3]

[0151] 3A and 3B are exemplary diagrams of exemplary tube components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]

[0152] 4A and 4B are exemplary diagrams of an exemplary lower plunger component according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A]

[0153] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5E] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5F] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 5G] 1A-1C are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A]

[0154] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6C] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6D] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6E] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6F]1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6G] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6H] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6I] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6J] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A]

[0155] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7D] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7E] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]

[0156] 1 is an illustrative diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]

[0157] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary sample transfer adapters according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 10]

[0158] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary sample transfer adapters according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]

[0159] 1A-1C are illustrative diagrams of exemplary sample transfer adapters according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]

[0160] 12A and 12B are illustrative diagrams of an exemplary sample transfer adapter connected to an exemplary device body, according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 13]

[0161] 13A and 13B are illustrative diagrams of an exemplary sample transfer adapter according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 14]

[0162] 14A and 14B are illustrative diagrams of an exemplary sample transfer adapter according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 15A]

[0163] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary capsule components according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 15B] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary capsule components according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 15C] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary capsule components according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 15D] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary capsule components according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 16]

[0164] 1A-1C are exemplary illustrations of at least a portion of an exemplary capsule extraction body member according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17]

[0165] 17A and 17B are exemplary diagrams of at least a portion of an exemplary capsule component and an exemplary capsule extraction body member, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18]

[0166] 18A and 18B are exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary capsule component and / or a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 19]

[0167] 1 is an illustrative diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 20]

[0168] 1 is an illustrative diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 21]

[0169] 1A-1C are exemplary diagrams of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component and at least a portion of an exemplary capsule component, according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 22]

[0170] 10A-10C are exemplary illustrations of exemplary ridge members disposed on inner lateral surfaces of exemplary container components, according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 23]

[0171] 1 is an exemplary diagram of an exemplary portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 24]

[0172] 1 is an exemplary diagram of an exemplary portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 25]

[0173] 1A-1C are exemplary views of an exemplary tube component and an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 26A]

[0174] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 26B] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 26C] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 27A]

[0175] 10A-10C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary upper plunger components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 27B] 10A-10C are exemplary diagrams of exemplary upper plunger components according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 28]

[0176] 1A-1C are exemplary views of an exemplary tube component and an exemplary upper plunger component according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 29A]

[0177] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 29B] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 30]

[0178] 1 illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 31]

[0179] 31A and 31B are illustrative diagrams of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 32A]

[0180] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 32B] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 32C] 1 is an illustrative diagram of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 33]

[0181] 33A and 33B are illustrative diagrams of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 34]

[0182] 34A and 34B are illustrative diagrams of an exemplary extraction cartridge according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 35]

[0183] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary extraction cartridge according to various examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 36]

[0184] 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary extraction cartridge and an exemplary device body according to various examples of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0148]

[0185] Certain examples of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, examples of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, these disclosures may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein. Rather, these examples are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like parts throughout.

[0149]

[0186] Phrases such as "in one example," "according to one example," and "in some examples" generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic that follows the phrase may be included in at least one example of the present disclosure, and may be included in more than one example of the present disclosure (importantly, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same example).

[0150]

[0187] When the specification states that a component or feature "may," "can," "could," "should," "would," "preferably," "in some cases," "typically," "optionally," "for example," "for example," "in some instances," "often," or "might" (or other such language) that the particular component or feature is not required to be included or to have that characteristic. Such component or feature may be optionally included in some examples, or it may be excluded.

[0151]

[0188] The words "example" or "exemplary" are used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations.

[0152]

[0189] Sampling and capturing biological aerosol particles can be an important topic in both research and commercial activities. This can include detecting infectious diseases in sampled aerosols to accurately and quickly detect infectious diseases. Many (if not all) upper respiratory tract diseases result in some of the disease-causing pathogens being present in the aerosols exhaled by a patient while they are infected with the infectious disease. Examples of pathogenic particles include, but are not limited to, bacteria, viruses, and mold / fungal spores.

[0153]

[0190] However, many aerosol samplers are not applicable to direct sampling of exhaled breath. For example, many aerosol samplers may require, among other items, large pressure drops, pumps, and electrostatic fields, which may inhibit the patient's free breathing or otherwise dilute the exhaled aerosol with large amounts of ambient air. Additionally, the processes associated with these aerosol samplers tend to damage pathogens in the aerosol, which may adversely affect the ability to detect collected pathogens.

[0154]

[0191] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, an aerosol collection device for capturing pathogen particles from exhaled aerosols is provided. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device can include one or more sealed capsule components capable of storing a solution (including, but not limited to, a buffer solution). For example, the sealed capsule components can store a buffer solution in the form of an aqueous solution that can resist pH changes when an acid or base (e.g., from a sample) is added to the buffer solution. For example, the buffer solution can include a mixture of a weak acid and its conjugate base, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the buffer solution can provide a medium for storing the bioaerosol.

[0155]

[0192] In some embodiments, the buffer may contain positive and negative control molecules (including, but not limited to, positive and negative control proteins). In some embodiments, the positive and negative control molecules may be selected based on the needs of the subsequent diagnosis.

[0156]

[0193] It is noted that while the description herein uses buffer solutions as examples of solutions, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to buffer solutions. In some instances, various embodiments of the present disclosure may use other types of solutions in addition to or instead of buffer solutions.

[0157]

[0194] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device can feature a series of mechanical features to enhance the fidelity of sample capture. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device can implement an immersed bubbler mechanism that includes a flow channel that guides exhaled breath into a buffer solution that is absorbed by a filter component to collect aerosols from the exhaled breath, where one or more bubbles form in the buffer solution and the aerosols from the exhaled breath are captured by the filter component and / or the buffer solution, details of which are described herein.

[0158]

[0195] As such, the exemplary aerosol collection device according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can address various technical challenges associated with many aerosol samplers and sampling methods and provide accurate and rapid subsequent detection of infectious diseases from a sample (e.g., exhaled breath, etc.). For example, the exemplary aerosol collection device can provide an effective means for capturing aerosols within a sample, which can then be provided for downstream diagnostics for pathogen detection. Additionally or alternatively, the exemplary aerosol collection device can provide low pressure drop for user comfort, eliminating the need for a pump.

[0159]

[0196] 1A, 1B, and 1C, an exemplary aerosol collection device 100 is illustrated in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160]

[0197] 1A, there is shown an exemplary diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device 100. In the example shown in FIG. 1A, the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 can include a sample transfer adapter 115 and a device body portion 126 (including an upper plunger component 107).

[0161]

[0198] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter 115 can be in the form of a tubular structure that can provide a sampling tunnel. For example, the sample transfer adapter 115 can include a hollow portion in the center that allows air to pass through. In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter 115 can be embodied as, but not limited to, a breathing straw. Additional embodiments of the sample transfer adapter 115 are described herein. A sample (e.g., exhaled breath from a user) can be administered into the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 through the sample transfer adapter 115. In some embodiments, the sample can include air and aerosols (which may contain pathogenic particles).

[0162]

[0199] While the above description provides examples of sample transfer adapter 115, it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above description. In some examples, sample transfer adapter 115 may be embodied as, but not limited to, a mask and / or other device. Additional details of exemplary embodiments are shown and described herein, including, but not limited to, those described in connection with at least Figures 8 through 14B.

[0163]

[0200] In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter 115 may be attached to the upper plunger component 107 and / or the device body 126 via various means, including, but not limited to, mechanical means (e.g., the sample transfer adapter 115 may be threaded into the device body 126) and / or chemical means (e.g., chemical glue, etc.).

[0164]

[0201] Referring now to FIG. 1B, a portion of an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol collection device 100 is shown.

[0165]

[0202] 1B, the upper plunger component 107 can define an orifice 111 positioned along a central axis of the upper plunger component 107. In some embodiments, the orifice 111 can allow a sample (such as, but not limited to, exhaled breath from a user) to enter the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. For example, a user can blow into the sample transfer adapter 115, and the exhaled breath (also referred to as a sample) can pass through the sample transfer adapter 115 and the orifice 111 and be accepted by the exemplary aerosol collection device 100.

[0166]

[0203] In some embodiments, the sample can pass down central passage 117A, which is connected to central passage 117B and connected to the bottom portion of exemplary aerosol collection device 100. In some embodiments, central passage 117A and central passage 117B define at least a portion of a flow channel, details of which are described herein. In some embodiments, exemplary aerosol collection device 100 can include a valve component 118 disposed along central passage 117B. Valve component 118 can prevent sample from being extracted from exemplary aerosol collection device 100 through central passage 117A and central passage 117B. For example, if a user accidentally draws air from exemplary aerosol collection device 100 through sample transfer adapter 115, valve component 118 can prevent the user from drawing buffer solution from exemplary aerosol collection device 100, details of which are described herein.

[0167]

[0204] 1B, after passing through valve component 118, the sample may then be deposited into an opening 119 at the bottom portion of exemplary aerosol collection device 100. In some embodiments, opening 119 may be defined as the radial gap between sample distribution ring member 127 and the exterior of valve support ring member 128, details of which are described herein.

[0168]

[0205] In some embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 can include one or more capsule components 102 positioned adjacent to a filter component 105. In some embodiments, the one or more capsule components 102 can be sealed. In some embodiments, the one or more capsule components 102 can store a buffer solution 103 containing positive and / or negative control molecules based on the target pathogen particles to be detected, allowing subsequent virus detection schemes to be more accurate. For example, if target pathogen particles are present, the positive and negative control molecules can allow for more accurate quantification of the target pathogen particles. In some embodiments, the positive and negative control molecules can provide an internal standard that can be detected by downstream diagnostics, which provides a better assessment of any unknown concentration of the targeted pathogen.

[0169]

[0206] In some embodiments, the capsule component 102 can be positioned within the container component 106 of the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 such that the capsule component 102 cannot be moved radially or circumferentially, but can only be moved vertically downward into the capsule extraction body 104. In some embodiments, the capsule component 102 can be mechanically positioned above the capsule extraction body 104. In the example shown in FIG. 1B , the capsule extraction body 104 can be in the form of or include a protrusion from the bottom surface of the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. As such, the capsule extraction body 104 can be configured, for example, to break a seal and allow the buffer solution 103 to be absorbed by the filter component 105. In some embodiments, the buffer solution 103 is contained on at least one of a first side (e.g., upstream side) of the filter element 105 adjacent to the sample distribution ring member 127 and / or a second side (e.g., downstream side) of the filter element 105 opposite the first side.

[0170]

[0207] 1B , the upper plunger component 107 can contain an O-ring 108, which can seal the upper plunger component 107 inside the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. The upper plunger component 107 can include a series of leg portions 109, which engage the capsule components 102. When the sample transfer adapter 115 is connected to the device body 126, a vertical force is exerted by the sample transfer adapter 115 on the top surface of the upper plunger component 107, and the force is transmitted to the one or more capsule components 102 (e.g., through the leg portions 109 of the upper plunger component 107), causing the capsule extraction body 104 to puncture the one or more capsule components 102 and break the seals of the capsule components 102, releasing the buffer solution 103 into the filter component 105. In some embodiments, in addition to being absorbed by the filter component 105, the buffer solution may also fill the interior volume below the valve component 118. In some embodiments, the buffer solution may additionally fill a lower portion of the breath analyzer chamber 121. As such, various embodiments of the present disclosure provide methodologies for ensuring proper usage of the exemplary aerosol collection device 100.

[0171]

[0208] In some embodiments, the buffer solution 103 can wet the filter element 105, and aerosols from the sample can be captured in the buffer solution 103 and / or the wetted filter element 105 when the filter element 105 is wetted by the buffer solution 103. In some embodiments, the wetted filter element 105 can capture pathogen aerosols from exhaled breath. For example, when an aerosol contacts the buffer solution 103, pathogen particles present in the aerosol can enter the buffer solution liquid medium, thus improving the capture efficiency of the aerosol from the sample. In the present disclosure, the buffer solution liquid medium containing the aerosols (such as, but not limited to, pathogen particles) can also be referred to as the sample liquid.

[0172]

[0209] In some embodiments, multiple holes (e.g., multiple holes 120) in the sample distribution ring member 127 can be positioned against the filter component 105. In some embodiments, the multiple holes 120 can help evenly distribute the sample to the filter component 105 after the buffer solution 103 from the capsule component 102 is released into the filter component 105.

[0173]

[0210] In some embodiments, the buffer solution 103 containing pathogen particles from the aerosol can be extracted from the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. For example, after a sample is collected (e.g., after a user blows into the sample transfer adapter 115), the sample transfer adapter 115 can be detached from the device body 126. For example, the sample transfer adapter 115 can be unscrewed from the upper plunger component 107 and / or the device body 126. In some embodiments, after the sample transfer adapter 115 is unscrewed from the upper plunger component 107, a rotational force can be exerted on the upper plunger component 640, causing it to rotate.

[0174]

[0211] In some embodiments, movement of the upper plunger component 107 may be controlled by engagement of the leg portion 109 with a set of ridge members 110A, 110B, 110C, and 110D disposed on and protruding from an inner lateral surface of the container component 106 of the exemplary aerosol collection device 100, as shown in FIG. 1C. For example, the upper plunger component 640 may be rotated past one or more vertical locking ridge members 110C (in some embodiments, each of the one or more vertical locking ridge members 110C has a triangular prism shape) and stopped by one or more vertical stop ridge members 110D (in some embodiments, each of the one or more vertical stop ridge members 110D has a rectangular base prism shape). These two sets of ridge members 110C and 110D can lock the upper plunger component 107 in a horizontally fixed position, where the leg portion 109 of the upper plunger component 107 is engaged with the lower plunger component 116, and the lower plunger component 116 is engaged with the filter component 105. In some embodiments, a vertical force is applied onto the upper plunger component 107 (e.g., the upper plunger component 107 is pressed down). After the upper plunger component 107 is pressed down, the leg portion 109 of the upper plunger component 107 engages with the lower plunger component 116, squeezing the sample liquid from the filter component 105 onto the bottom surface of the exemplary aerosol collection device 100.

[0175]

[0212] In some embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 can include a touchless-based mechanism to extract sample liquid from the filter component 105. For example, the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 can include a groove component 122 disposed on a bottom surface of the device body of the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. The groove component 122 can be punctured to open an area for the sample to be extracted, as described in more detail herein.

[0176]

[0213] In some embodiments, aerosols from the sample may be trapped in the buffer solution 103 and / or the filter component 105, and air may be separated from the aerosols in the form of bubbles as the sample moves through the buffer solution 103 and / or the filter component 105.

[0177]

[0214] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component 107 can be depressed against the lower plunger component 116, which can push the sample liquid containing the aerosol out of the filter component 105, creating a pressure differential caused by a reduction in the volume inside the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. In some embodiments, the pressure differential can cause the sample liquid to be pushed out of the open groove component 122.

[0178]

[0215] In some embodiments, after the upper plunger component 107 is depressed, air can then enter a vent channel that includes the breath analyzer chamber 121. In the example shown in Figure 1B, a portion of the breath analyzer chamber 121 is positioned above the filter component 105, thus allowing air to escape from the filter component 105 after a vertical force is exerted on the filter component 105, details of which are described herein.

[0179]

[0216] In some embodiments, air can pass through a gap in the plunger body member 112 of the upper plunger component 107 and then exit the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 via a set of holes in the upper plunger component 107, as described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 100 can contain a filter member 114 that prevents aerosols (e.g., disease-causing pathogens in a sample) from escaping the exemplary aerosol collection device 100. For example, a tube component 124 having a vent bluff ring member 123 that defines a portion of the central passage body can engage with the plunger body member 112 of the upper plunger component 107 such that air escaping through the vent channel must pass through the filter member 114 before exiting through the opening 113, as described in more detail herein.

[0180]

[0217] Thus, the exemplary aerosol collection device according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can provide an effective means for sampling biological aerosol particles.

[0181]

[0218] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, an exemplary device body of an aerosol collection device can include various components, including, but not limited to, a container component (examples of which are shown in FIGS. 2A-2D), a tube component (examples of which are shown in FIGS. 3A-3B), a lower plunger component (examples of which are shown in FIGS. 4A-5B), an upper plunger component (examples of which are shown in FIGS. 5A-5G), a cap component, a filter component, and / or a valve component. In the present disclosure, the term "component" refers to a physical portion or part of an aerosol collection device. In some embodiments, each component of an aerosol collection device may be replaceable. In some embodiments, each component can include one or more "members," and one or more "members" are part or portions of the component.

[0182]

[0219] 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D illustrate exemplary views of an exemplary container component 200 according to examples of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary top view of the exemplary container component 200. FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view from section line A-A', looking in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 2A. FIG. 2C illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view from section line B-B', looking in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 2A. FIG. 2D illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view from section line C-C', looking in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 2A.

[0183]

[0220] In the examples shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D, the container component 200 is shaped similar to a cylindrical shape. It is noted that while these figures provide examples of container components, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these figures. In some examples, the exemplary container component can be shaped similar to other shapes.

[0184]

[0221] 2A and 2B, the container component 200 has an inner bottom surface 203 and an inner side surface 201. In some embodiments, the inner bottom surface 203 corresponds to the inner bottom surface of the cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the inner side surface corresponds to the inner side surface of the cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the inner bottom surface 203 is in an orthogonal or perpendicular alignment with the inner side surface 201.

[0185]

[0222] 2A and 2B, in some embodiments, the container component includes a sample distribution ring member 204. In some embodiments, the sample distribution ring member 204 is positioned on the inner bottom surface 203 of the exemplary container component 200.

[0186]

[0223] 2A and 2B, the sample distribution ring member 204 is shaped like a ring or a tube. It is noted that these figures provide examples of sample distribution ring members, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these figures. In some examples, the exemplary sample distribution ring member can be shaped like other shapes.

[0187]

[0224] In some embodiments, the sample distribution ring member 204 may include or define one or more holes, openings, or apertures on a surface of the sample distribution ring member 204. In some embodiments, one or more bubbles containing the sample may flow through the one or more holes, openings, or apertures, as described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, the sample may flow through the one or more holes, openings, or apertures to form one or more bubbles, as described in more detail herein.

[0188]

[0225] 2A and 2B, the exemplary vessel component 200 includes an exemplary valve support ring member 202. In some embodiments, the exemplary valve support ring member 202 is positioned within a sample distribution ring member 204. In some embodiments, the exemplary valve support ring member 202 is connected to the sample distribution ring member 204 through one or more legs on a bottom surface that form one or more outlets, as described in more detail herein.

[0189]

[0226] In some embodiments, the valve support ring 202 is shaped similar to a ring or tube. It is noted that while these figures provide examples of valve support rings, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these figures. In some examples, the exemplary sample distribution ring can be shaped similar to other shapes.

[0190]

[0227] 2B and 2C, the valve support ring member 202 includes a plurality of support beams 205. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of support beams 205 extends from the top surface of the valve support ring member 202. In some embodiments, the height of the exemplary valve support ring member 202 is greater than the height of the exemplary sample distribution ring member 204. For example, the plurality of support beams 205 extend from the top surface of the valve support ring member 202 so that they are not obscured by the sample distribution ring member 204.

[0191]

[0228] 2A and 2B, exemplary vessel component 200 includes at least one filter support body member (e.g., filter support body member 206 and filter support body member 207). In some embodiments, at least one filter support body member (e.g., filter support body member 206 and filter support body member 207) is positioned on inner bottom surface 203 of vessel component 200 and positioned radially outward from sample distribution ring member 204.

[0192]

[0229] In some embodiments, each of at least one filter support body member (e.g., each of filter support body member 206 and filter support body member 207) is positioned between inner bottom surface 203 of container component 200 and inner side surface 201 of container component 200.

[0193]

[0230] 2A and 2B, the exemplary vessel component 200 includes at least one capsule extraction body member (e.g., capsule extraction body member 208). In some embodiments, the at least one capsule extraction body member (e.g., capsule extraction body member 208) is positioned on the inner bottom surface 203 of the vessel component 200 and positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member 204.

[0194]

[0231] In some embodiments, at least one capsule extraction body member (e.g., capsule extraction body member 208) is positioned between the inner bottom surface 203 of the container component 200 and the inner side surface 201 of the container component 200.

[0195]

[0232] In some embodiments, each of the at least one capsule extraction body member is positioned between two filter support body members. For example, as shown in at least FIG. 2D , capsule extraction body member 208 is positioned between filter support body member 206 and filter support body member 207. In some embodiments, each of the at least one filter support body member is positioned between two capsule extraction body members.

[0196]

[0233] 2B, 2C, and 2D, in some embodiments, the exemplary container component 200 includes at least one horizontal ridge member (e.g., horizontal ridge member 210) disposed on the inner lateral surface 201 of the container component 200. In some embodiments, the exemplary container component 200 includes at least one vertical ridge member (e.g., vertical ridge member 212) disposed on the inner lateral surface 201 of the container component 200.

[0197]

[0234] In some embodiments, at least one horizontal ridge member and at least one vertical ridge member are connected to one another in a perpendicular arrangement, for example, horizontal ridge member 210 and vertical ridge member 212 are connected to one another in a perpendicular arrangement (or orthogonal arrangement) to one another.

[0198]

[0235] In some embodiments, the at least one vertical ridge member includes one or more types of ridge members. For example, the at least one vertical ridge member can include at least one vertical locking ridge member, the at least one vertical locking ridge member including a sloped surface extending from the inner lateral surface 201. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one vertical ridge member can include at least one vertical stop ridge member, the at least one vertical stop ridge member including a ridge surface extending from the inner lateral surface 201 (wherein the distance between the top ridge surface and the inner lateral surface 201 meets a threshold for preventing the leg portion of the upper plunger component from sliding, as described in more detail herein).

[0199]

[0236] 3A and 3B illustrate exemplary views of an exemplary tube component 300 according to an example of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the exemplary tube component 300. FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of the exemplary tube component 300 taken along a plane passing through section line A-A' in FIG. 3A and parallel to the central axis of the tube component 300.

[0200]

[0237] 3A and 3B, the exemplary tubing component 300 includes an exemplary pipe member 301. In some embodiments, the exemplary pipe member 301 is shaped similar to a tube and defines at least a portion of a flow channel 309 for receiving a sample, such that the sample travels through the flow channel 309 in a direction as indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG. 3B, additional details of which are described herein.

[0201]

[0238] It is noted that while the figures provide examples of pipe members, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these figures. In some examples, the exemplary pipe members can have other shapes.

[0202]

[0239] In some embodiments, the exemplary pipe member includes a top portion 302 and a bottom portion 305. In some embodiments, the top portion 302 and the bottom portion 305 are connected through a middle portion 304. In some embodiments, the top portion 302, the middle portion 304, and the bottom portion 305 form at least a portion of a flow channel 309.

[0203]

[0240] 3A and 3B, in some embodiments, the exemplary tube component 300 includes a bent bluff ring member 303. In some embodiments, the bent bluff ring member 303 is shaped similar to a ring or tube. It is noted that while the figures provide examples of bent bluff ring members, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these figures. In some examples, the exemplary bent bluff ring member can be shaped in other ways.

[0204]

[0241] In some embodiments, the bent bluff ring member 303 extends from the middle portion 304 of the pipe member 301. In some embodiments, the bent bluff ring member 303 surrounds the top portion 302 of the pipe member 301 such that the top portion 302 of the pipe member 301 is within the bent bluff ring member 303. In some embodiments, the bent bluff ring member 303 does not surround the bottom portion 305 of the pipe member 301.

[0205]

[0242] In some embodiments, the vent bluff ring member 303 has at least one opening 307 on a side surface thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one opening 307 provides a portion of a vent channel, allowing sample to be expelled from the exemplary aerosol collection device, as described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, the at least one opening 307 represents a series of vent ports configured to intermediately allow air to escape from the container so that an upper plunger component (as described in more detail herein) can be depressed into the immersed filter component without increasing pressure within the aerosol collection device (thus increasing the resistance of the device and aiding in the extraction of fluid (e.g., sample liquid) from the immersed filter component). As the upper plunger component is further depressed, the at least one opening 307 moves across a locking ridge on the upper plunger component (as described in more detail herein), which closes the vent. In some embodiments, further pressure from the user on the upper plunger component increases pressure within the device, forcing fluid into the extraction cartridge, details of which are described herein.

[0206]

[0243] 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary views of an exemplary lower plunger component 400 according to an example of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4A illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the exemplary lower plunger component 400. FIG. 4B illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of the exemplary lower plunger component 400 taken along a plane passing through section line A-A' in FIG. 4A and parallel to the central axis of the tube component 300.

[0207]

[0244] In some embodiments, the exemplary lower plunger component 400 includes an exemplary plunger ring member 402. In some embodiments, the exemplary plunger ring member 402 is shaped similar to a ring or tube.

[0208]

[0245] It is noted that while the figures provide examples of plunger ring members, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above description. In some examples, the exemplary plunger ring members can have other shapes.

[0209]

[0246] In some embodiments, the exemplary plunger ring member 402 has an outer lateral surface 403. In some embodiments, at least one plunger support wing (e.g., the exemplary plunger support wing 404) is disposed on the outer lateral surface 403 of the exemplary plunger ring member 402.

[0210]

[0247] 4A and 4B, the example plunger support wing 404 includes a bottom portion 408 and a side portion 406. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 408 of the example plunger support wing 404 is connected to and extends radically outward from the outer side surface 403 of the example plunger collar member 402. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 408 of the example plunger support wing 404 is connected to and in a perpendicular or orthogonal arrangement with the side portion 406 of the example plunger support wing 404.

[0211]

[0248] In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in FIG. 4B ), the exemplary plunger ring member 402 includes at least one plunger leg component (e.g., exemplary plunger leg component 410). In some embodiments, the at least one plunger leg component extends inward toward a central axis of the plunger ring member and is disposed perpendicular to an inner lateral surface of the plunger ring member. In the example shown in FIG. 4B , the exemplary plunger leg component 410 extends inward toward a central axis B-B′ of the exemplary plunger ring member 402 and is disposed perpendicular to an inner lateral surface 405 of the exemplary plunger ring member 402.

[0212]

[0249] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the exemplary plunger leg component 410 contacts the top surface of the exemplary filter component of the aerosol collection device, details of which are described herein.

[0213]

[0250] 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, and 5G each illustrate an exemplary view of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0214]

[0251] 5A and 5B illustrate different views of an exemplary upper plunger component 500, which includes at least an exemplary plunger head member 501 and an exemplary plunger body member 503. FIGS. 5C and 5D illustrate exemplary views of the exemplary plunger body member 503. FIGS. 5E, 5F, and 5G illustrate exemplary views of the exemplary plunger head member 501.

[0215]

[0252] 5A and 5B, an exemplary plunger head member 501 is secured to an exemplary plunger body member 503. As shown in FIG.

[0216]

[0253] In some embodiments, the exemplary plunger head member 501 is secured to the exemplary plunger body member 503 through chemical means, such as, but not limited to, a chemical adhesive (e.g., but not limited to, cyanoacrylate, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the exemplary plunger head member 501 is secured to the exemplary plunger body member 503 through mechanical means (e.g., but not limited to, a tongue-to-groove fit), details of which are described herein. Additionally or alternatively, the exemplary plunger head member 501 is secured to the exemplary plunger body member 503 through other means.

[0217]

[0254] In some embodiments, an exemplary O-ring 531 is disposed on the exemplary O-ring groove on the exemplary plunger head member 501, details of which are described herein.

[0218]

[0255] 5C and 5D, exemplary views of the exemplary plunger body member 503 are shown. In particular, FIG. 5C illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the exemplary plunger body member 503. FIG. 5D illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of the exemplary plunger body member 503 taken along a plane passing through section line A-A' in FIG. 5C and oriented parallel to the central axis of the exemplary plunger body member 503.

[0219]

[0256] In some embodiments, the exemplary plunger body member 503 includes at least a central ring portion 505 , an intermediate ring portion 507 , and at least one leg portion 509 .

[0220]

[0257] In some embodiments, the central ring portion 505 is shaped similar to a ring or tube. It is noted that while the figures provide examples of central ring portions, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the figures. In some examples, the exemplary central ring portion can be shaped in other ways.

[0221]

[0258] In some embodiments, the intermediate ring portion 507 is shaped similar to a ring or tube. It is noted that while the figures provide examples of intermediate ring portions, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the figures. In some examples, the exemplary intermediate ring portion can be shaped in other ways.

[0222]

[0259] In some embodiments, the central ring portion 505 is positioned within the intermediate ring portion 507. In the example shown in FIG. 5D , the first end 516 of the central ring portion 505 is at least partially connected to the second end 518 of the intermediate ring portion 507 through at least a bridge connector 521. In some embodiments, the central ring portion 505 is not completely connected to the intermediate ring portion 507, and a gap may be formed between the central ring portion 505 and the intermediate ring portion 507, and / or an opening / aperture on the upper surface of the plunger body member 503 may be defined between the bridge connectors. For example, as shown in FIG. 5D , a portion of at least one vent channel (e.g., vent channel 511) may be formed between the central ring portion 505 and the intermediate ring portion 507, and the opening 522 may serve as a vent port for the vent channel 511. As described in further detail herein, the vent channel 511 provides a passageway for ejecting the sample from the aerosol collection device.

[0223]

[0260] In some embodiments, at least one filter member can be positioned to cover opening 522. In some embodiments, at least one filter member is positioned between plunger head member 501 and plunger body member 503. Because vent channel 511 is configured to expel a sample from the aerosol collection device, the at least one filter member is configured to remove containment, aerosols, bacteria, and / or viruses, etc., from the sample before it is expelled from the exemplary aerosol collection device, so that the sample expelled from the aerosol collection device does not pose a health or environmental hazard.

[0224]

[0261] In some embodiments, at least one leg portion 509 is connected to the intermediate ring portion 507 and positioned radically outward from the intermediate ring portion 507. For example, as shown in FIG. 5D , a first end 523 of the at least one leg portion 509 is connected to a second end 518 of the intermediate ring portion 507 and forms at least a portion of an annular groove 513 on an upper surface 525 of the plunger body member 503. In some embodiments, the exemplary plunger head member 501 is secured to the exemplary plunger body member 503 through at least the annular groove 513.

[0225]

[0262] In some embodiments, the lateral surface 527 of the plunger body member 503 defines an O-ring groove 515. In some embodiments, an O-ring is positioned over the O-ring groove such that the plunger body member 503 (and the upper plunger component 500 as a whole) is sealed and / or secured to a container component of an aerosol collection device (e.g., the O-ring can be positioned between the O-ring groove and the inner lateral surface of the container component).

[0226]

[0263] 5E, 5F, and 5G, exemplary views of an exemplary plunger head member 501 are shown. In particular, FIG. 5E illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the exemplary plunger head member 501. FIG. 5F illustrates an exemplary top view of the exemplary plunger head member 501. FIG. 5G illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of the exemplary plunger head member 501 taken along a plane passing through section line A-A' in FIG. 5F and aligned parallel to the central axis of the exemplary plunger head member 501.

[0227]

[0264] In some embodiments, the exemplary plunger head member 501 includes a ring ridge 517 extending from a bottom surface of the plunger head member 501. In some embodiments, the ring ridge 517 is locked and / or attached to the ring groove 513 of the plunger body member 503 with or without a chemical adhesive to secure the exemplary plunger head member 501 to the exemplary plunger body member 503.

[0228]

[0265] 5E, 5F, and 5G, the exemplary plunger head member 501 defines a central bore 528 and one or more apertures (e.g., aperture 529) positioned radially outward from the central bore 528. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of apertures defines at least a portion of a vent channel, details of which are described herein.

[0229]

[0266] In some embodiments, at least one filter element can be positioned to cover each of the plurality of apertures. As described above, the vent channel is configured to eject the sample from the aerosol collection device. As such, the at least one filter element can be configured to remove containment, aerosols, bacteria, and / or viruses from the sample before the sample is ejected, such that the sample ejected from the aerosol collection device does not pose a health or environmental hazard.

[0230]

[0267] 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F, 6G, 6H, 6I, and 6J illustrate an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0231]

[0268] 6A, an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes providing (e.g., without limitation, molding) a container component 602. As described above, the container component 602 includes at least a valve support ring member 606 and a sample distribution ring member 604.

[0232]

[0269] Referring now to FIG. 6B, an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure includes positioning a valve component 608 over a valve support collar member 606 .

[0233]

[0270] In some embodiments, the valve component 608 is a spherical object. In some embodiments, the valve component 608 has other shapes and / or forms. In some embodiments, the valve component 608 can comprise materials such as plastics, including, but not limited to, PVC and CPVC.

[0234]

[0271] As described above, the valve support collar 606 can include multiple support beams 605. In some embodiments, the valve component 608 is mounted on and supported by the multiple support beams 605.

[0235]

[0272] 6C , an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes inserting a filter component 616 between the sample distribution ring member 604 and at least one of the filter support body member 610 or the capsule extraction body member 612 of the container component 602. In some embodiments, the filter component 616 is positioned in the aerosol collection device before positioning the valve component 608. In some embodiments, the filter component 616 is positioned in the aerosol collection device after positioning the valve component 608.

[0236]

[0273] In some embodiments, the filter element 616 is ring-shaped or tubular-shaped. In some embodiments, the filter element 616 is other shapes and / or forms. In some embodiments, the filter element 616 is a dry filter. During operation of the aerosol collection device, buffer solution is released, wetting the filter element 616, as described in more detail herein.

[0237]

[0274] In some embodiments, the filter component 616 may be manufactured or provided in a rectangular shape having dimensions of 2.1" (length) by 0.5" (width) by 0.125" (thickness), and two edges of the rectangular shape may be connected to one another to form a ring / tube shape. In some embodiments, the filter component 616 may have other dimensional measurements.

[0238]

[0275] In some embodiments, the filter component 616 can include materials such as, but not limited to, one or more of 2122K302 (Merv 6 polyester), 2173K133 (sparse fiberglass filter), and / or 2182K51 (polyester-based Merv 6 with a sticky surface treatment). In some embodiments, the filter component 616 can include other materials.

[0239]

[0276] 6D , an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes positioning a lower plunger component 634 on an upper surface of a filter component 616. In some embodiments, the lower plunger component 634 is positioned prior to positioning the tube component within the aerosol collection device, details of which are described herein. In some embodiments, the lower plunger component 634 is placed on an upper surface of the filter component 616 prior to positioning the valve component 608 on the valve support ring member 606. In some embodiments, the lower plunger component 634 is placed on an upper surface of the filter component 616 after positioning the valve component 608 on the valve support ring member 606.

[0240]

[0277] 6E and 6F, an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes securing a tube component 618 to a sample distribution ring member 604.

[0241]

[0278] As shown in Figure 6F, the tube component 618 can include a notch 620, and the sample distribution ring member 604 can include a notch 622. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6F, the tube component 618 is secured to the sample distribution ring member 604 through a sliding interference fit between the notches 620 and 622. Additionally or alternatively, the tube component 618 is secured to the sample distribution ring member 604 through other means, including, but not limited to, chemical means such as adhesive glue.

[0242]

[0279] Figure 6G illustrates a portion of an exemplary cross-sectional view of the exemplary device shown in Figures 6E and 6F. In the example shown in Figure 6G, the valve component 608 is positioned between the plurality of support beams 605 of the valve support ring member 606 and the inner surface 641 of the middle portion 642 of the pipe member 644 of the tube component 618.

[0243]

[0280] In some embodiments, inner surface 641 of intermediate portion 642 can include a curved surface that corresponds to the surface of valve component 608. As described above, pipe member 644 defines at least a portion of a flow channel for receiving a sample, and valve component 608 is configured to prevent a user from accidentally aspirating buffer solution from the aerosol collection device through the flow channel. For example, when a user aspirates air through pipe member 623, valve component 608 moves toward intermediate portion 642 of pipe member 644 and comes into contact with inner surface 641, which can seal the flow channel and prevent buffer solution from being aspirated from the aerosol collection device through the flow channel.

[0244]

[0281] In some embodiments, the sample flows through the gaps between the inner surfaces 641 of the intermediate portion 642, through the gaps between the multiple support beams 605, through the valve support ring member 606, and toward the bottom of the container component 602.

[0245]

[0282] In some embodiments, the inner surface of the bottom portion of the pipe member 644 can include one or more recessed portions (e.g., recessed portion 646) that correspond to gaps between the support beams 605. As such, the sample can flow through the gaps between the support beams 605 and the one or more recessed portions.

[0246]

[0283] 6H and 6I, an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure includes positioning at least one capsule component 624 on the upper surface of the capsule extraction body member 612. In some embodiments, the at least one capsule component 624 can be positioned on the upper surface of the capsule extraction body member 612 at any step of the exemplary method prior to positioning the upper plunger component into the exemplary aerosol collection device (details of which are described herein). In some embodiments, the at least one capsule component is secured between at least two vertical ridge members of the container component. In the example shown in FIG. 6H, the at least one capsule component 624 is secured between a first vertical ridge member 630 (e.g., a vertical stop ridge member as described herein) and a second vertical ridge member 632 (e.g., a vertical lock ridge member as described herein).

[0247]

[0284] 6J , an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes securing an upper plunger component 640 onto a top surface of at least one capsule component 624 and, optionally, securing a cap component 650 onto the upper plunger component 640. In some embodiments, the upper plunger component 640 is secured to an inner lateral surface of the container component 602 through an O-ring 652.

[0248]

[0285] 6J illustrates an example of an assembled aerosol collection device 660. As shown in FIG. 6J, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes a container component 602. In some embodiments, the container component 602 includes a sample distribution ring member 604, a valve support ring member 606 within the sample distribution ring member 604, and at least one capsule extraction body member (e.g., capsule extraction body member 612) positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member 604.

[0249]

[0286] In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes a valve component 608 supported by a valve support ring 606. In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes a tubing component 618 secured to the sample distribution ring 604.

[0250]

[0287] In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes at least one capsule component 624 positioned on the upper surface of at least one capsule extraction body member (e.g., capsule extraction body member 612).

[0251]

[0288] In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes an upper plunger component 640 positioned above the top surface of at least one capsule component 624 .

[0252]

[0289] In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes a filter component 616 interposed between the sample distribution ring member 604 and at least one capsule extraction body member (e.g., capsule extraction body member 612) (and / or filter support body member).

[0253]

[0290] In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes a lower plunger component 634 positioned above the upper surface of the filter component 616 .

[0254]

[0291] In some embodiments, the assembled aerosol collection device 660 includes a cap component 650 secured to an upper plunger component 640. For example, the upper plunger component 640 includes a plunger head member defining a central bore having threads on an inner surface, and the cap component 650 includes an extension portion having threads on an outer surface. The extension portion of the cap component 650 can be fastened to the central bore of the plunger head member of the upper plunger component 640 via the threads.

[0255]

[0292] In some embodiments, the cap component 650 is configured to seal the flow and vent channels of the aerosol collection device (details of the flow and vent channels are described further herein). In some embodiments, the cap component 650 is capable of preventing contamination.

[0256]

[0293] 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E illustrate an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0257]

[0294] Referring now to FIG. 7A, an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure includes removing a cap component of the device body portion 701 from an upper plunger component 703 of the device body portion 701, and connecting a sample transfer adapter 705 to a flow channel defined by at least the upper plunger component 703 and a tube component 707.

[0258]

[0295] As described above, the upper plunger component 703 includes a plunger head member defining a central bore having threads on an inner surface, and the sample transfer adapter 705 includes an extension portion having threads on an outer surface. The extension portion of the sample transfer adapter 705 can be fastened to the central bore of the plunger head member of the upper plunger component 703 via the threads.

[0259]

[0296] In some embodiments, the device body 701 includes at least one capsule component 709 that stores a buffer solution. In some embodiments, connecting the sample transfer adapter 705 to the upper plunger component 703 causes a vertical downward force to be exerted on the upper plunger component 703. In some embodiments, the upper plunger component 703 is positioned above an upper surface of the at least one capsule component 709, and the vertical downward force causes the release of buffer solution 716 from the at least one capsule component 709 into a filter component 713 within the device body 701, as described in more detail herein.

[0260]

[0297] In some embodiments, an exemplary method for assembling an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes inducing sample flow into the device body 701 through a flow channel. For example, when a user blows or coughs into the sample transfer adapter 705, the sample flows into the device body 701. In the example shown in FIG. 7A , the flow direction of the sample in the flow channel is indicated by dashed arrow 777. In some embodiments, the sample contacts the buffer solution 716 in the device body 701. For example, when a user blows or coughs into the sample transfer adapter 705, air can be blown into the buffer solution 716, forming one or more bubbles.

[0261]

[0298] Referring now to FIG. 7B, an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure includes the steps of detaching the aerosol collection device from the upper plunger component 703 of the device body portion 701, and connecting / reconnecting the cap component 715 to the upper plunger component 703 of the device body portion 701 to seal the device body portion 701.

[0262]

[0299] As described above, the upper plunger component 703 includes a plunger head member defining a central bore having threads on an inner surface, and the cap component 715 includes an extension portion having threads on an outer surface. The extension portion of the cap component 715 can be fastened through the threads to the central bore of the plunger head member of the upper plunger component 703. In some embodiments, the cap component 715 is configured to seal the flow channel.

[0263]

[0300] Referring now to FIG. 7C, an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to an example of the present disclosure includes connecting an extraction cartridge 717 to the device body 701.

[0264]

[0301] In some embodiments, the device body 701 includes a locking component 719 that seals the bottom opening of the device body 701. In some embodiments, the locking component 719 prevents contamination. In some embodiments, connecting the extraction cartridge 717 includes disconnecting the locking component 719, shown in FIG. 7B , from the bottom of the container component 730 and connecting the extraction cartridge 717 to an opening on the bottom of the container component 730 (after the locking component 719 is removed), as described in detail herein. In some embodiments, the opening on the bottom of the container component 730 (after the locking component 719 is removed) can be connected to an inlet (e.g., an inlet of a waveguide cartridge) for further diagnostics.

[0265]

[0302] 7D , an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure further includes exerting a rotational force on the upper plunger component 703, causing the upper plunger component 703 to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration. In the first configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component 703 contacts a top surface of the at least one capsule component 709. In the second configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component 703 contacts a top surface of the lower plunger component 733.

[0266]

[0303] In some embodiments, an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure further includes exerting a vertical downward force on an upper surface of the upper plunger component 703, which causes the lower plunger component 733 to press against the filter component 713, thereby squeezing the sample liquid from the filter component 713.

[0267]

[0304] In some embodiments, an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes extracting buffer solution 716 from device body 701 to extraction cartridge 717, details of which are described herein.

[0268]

[0305] 7E , an exemplary method for operating an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure includes detaching an extraction cartridge 717 from the device body 701. In some embodiments, the extraction cartridge 717 stores a buffer solution 716 containing aerosols extracted from the device body 701. In some embodiments, the buffer solution 716 containing the aerosols captured from the sample can be provided to downstream diagnostics to detect pathogens in the sample. For example, the buffer solution 716 containing the aerosols captured from the sample can be provided to a waveguide (such as, but not limited to, a waveguide cartridge) for further analysis and downstream diagnostics.

[0269]

[0306] As such, according to various examples of the present disclosure, exemplary aerosol collection devices and exemplary methods associated with the aerosol collection devices are provided. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device can function as an aerosol collector utilizing a wet filter-based capture system. In some embodiments, the buffer is contained in a capsule component that is pierced before the sample is collected. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device is self-contained and disposable. In some embodiments, the intended use of the aerosol collection device is designed into the aerosol collection device to reduce user error when using the aerosol collection device.

[0270]

[0307] In some embodiments, prior to using the aerosol collection device, the aerosol collection device is sealed with the cap component secured in place. In some embodiments, the cap component is removed and a sample transfer adapter (such as, but not limited to, a mask, straw, or hood connector) is screwed into the aerosol collection device. In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device is depressed, which forces the capsule component down onto the capsule extraction body member and releases the buffer onto the filter component. In some embodiments, a sample is collected through the sample transfer adapter and passes through the wetted filter. Once this is completed, in some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter is removed and the cap component is reattached to the aerosol collection device, which seals the aerosol collection device. The sample is then extracted from the aerosol collection device.

[0271]

[0308] 8 through 14B, an exemplary aerosol collection device 800 is illustrated in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0272]

[0309] 8, an exemplary diagram of an exemplary aerosol collection device 800 is shown. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the exemplary aerosol collection device 800 can include a sample transfer adapter and a device body. As shown, the sample transfer adapter can include a mask component 810, which is configured to attach to a device body 820.

[0273]

[0310] In various embodiments, the mask component 810 can include a facial interface member, an outer shell, an interior cavity, and a sampling channel. As shown in FIG. 8 , the mask component 810 includes a facial interface member 811, a mask outer shell 812, a mask interior cavity 813, and a sampling channel 814. In various embodiments, the mask component 810 can include a mask outer shell 812 and a facial interface member 811, where the mask outer shell 812 defines at least a portion of the structural exterior of the mask component 810, and the facial interface member 811 includes one or more contoured surfaces disposed around a portion of the mask outer shell 812 and defining an opening therein. For example, the one or more contoured surfaces of the facial interface member 811 can be configured to engage a portion of a user's face. In particular, one or more contoured surfaces of the facial interface member 811 may be configured to press against a portion of a user's face surrounding the user's mouth and / or nose, such that an opening defined by the facial interface member 811 may be configured to receive the user's mouth and / or nose. In such an exemplary situation, the user's mouth and / or nose are positioned within the opening defined by the facial interface member 811, and the one or more contoured surfaces of the facial interface member 811 may be configured such that at least a substantially airtight seal can exist along the one or more contoured surfaces that press against the user's face. As such, the mask component 810 may be configured such that a user's face engaged with the facial interface member 811 (e.g., such that the user's mouth and / or nose are positioned within the opening defined by the facial interface member 811) can allow the user's mouth and / or nose to be in fluid communication with the mask interior cavity 813.For example, an air sample provided by a user (e.g., exhaled or coughed by the user) may be administered into the mask interior cavity 813 of the exemplary mask component 810 via the facial interface member 811. As described in more detail herein, in some embodiments, the sample may include air and aerosols (which may contain pathogen particles).

[0274]

[0311] In various embodiments, the mask outer shell 812 can include a substantially hollow outer housing that at least partially defines the mask interior cavity 813 of the mask component 810. For example, the mask interior cavity 813 can include an interior volume within the mask outer shell 812, as defined by the hollow configuration of the mask outer shell 812. In various embodiments, the mask interior cavity 813 can be configured to receive an air sample through an opening defined by the facial interface member 811. For example, in the exemplary situation where the facial interface member 811 is engaged with the user's face, the mask interior cavity 813 can be configured to receive a sample (e.g., exhaled breath) from the user's mouth and / or nose through the opening defined by the facial interface member 811. In various embodiments, the mask interior cavity 813 may be fluidly connected to a sampling channel 814 of the mask component 810 such that an air sample within the mask interior cavity 813 (e.g., exhaled breath provided by a user) can further flow into the sampling channel 814 for delivery from the mask component 810 to the device body portion 820, as described in further detail herein.

[0275]

[0312] In various embodiments, the sampling channel 814 of the exemplary mask component 810 can include a conduit member configured to facilitate delivery of an air sample provided to the mask component 810 to downstream components of the exemplary aerosol collection device 800. For example, in various embodiments described herein, the sampling channel 814 can be configured to facilitate delivery of an air sample present in the mask interior cavity 813 to the device body portion 820 (e.g., into a flow channel described herein).

[0276]

[0313] 9 and 10 , the sampling channel 814 can include a tubular structure having a hollow central portion extending along its length, allowing air to pass therethrough. In various embodiments, the sampling channel 814 can include a first end disposed adjacent to and / or within the mask interior cavity 813 such that the sampling channel 814 is in fluid communication with the mask interior cavity 813 and configured to receive an air sample therefrom. Additionally, the sampling channel 814 can include a second end at an opposite, distal end of the tubular structure. In various embodiments, at least a distal portion of the sampling channel (e.g., the second end of the sampling channel 814) can protrude outward from the mask outer shell 812 and extend away from the surface of the mask outer shell 812. In various embodiments, the sampling channel 814 can further include a sample outlet portion 818 through which a sample traveling along the hollow interior of the sampling channel 814 can be dispensed. For example, the sample outlet portion 818 can be defined by an orifice positioned at a second end of the tubular structure of the sampling channel 814. As described herein, in various embodiments, the sample outlet portion 818 of the sampling channel 814 can embody the sample outlet portion of the mask component 810. In such an exemplary situation, a sample of air received by the mask component 810 can be dispensed from the mask component 810 to a fluidically downstream component of the aerosol collection device 800 (e.g., a flow channel of the device body portion 820) via the sample outlet portion 818.

[0277]

[0314] In various embodiments, the sampling channel 814 can be attached to at least a portion of the device body 820 to secure the mask component 810 relative to the device body 820. For example, in some embodiments, the sampling channel 814 can be attached to the flow channel (e.g., defined by at least the upper plunger component of the device body 820) via various means, including, but not limited to, mechanical means (e.g., the sampling channel 814 can be threaded into the device body 820 via threads provided about the exterior surface of the distal portion of the sampling channel 814). In various embodiments, the sampling channel 814 can be attached to the device body 820 such that the air flow path extending from the sample outlet portion 818 of the sampling channel 814 to the central bore of the device body 820 can remain at least substantially unobstructed, as described herein.

[0278]

[0315] While the above description provides examples of sampling channel 814, it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above description. In some examples, sampling channel 814 may be embodied as, for example, but not limited to, an orifice extending through mask outer shell 812 configured to fluidly connect mask interior cavity 813 to downstream components of aerosol collection device 800 (e.g., device body portion 820), such that a sample present in mask interior cavity 813 can flow directly through the orifice in mask outer shell 812 to the downstream components of aerosol collection device 800. Furthermore, in various embodiments, one or more components of exemplary mask component 810 (e.g., sampling conduit 816, etc.) may be selectively removable from mask outer shell 812 of mask component 810.

[0279]

[0316] In various embodiments, the exemplary mask component 810 can include one or more adapter ventilation members configured to allow a predetermined volume of air dispensed from an exhaust outlet of a device body portion 820 coupled to the mask component 810 (e.g., from an opening / vent port in a plunger head member of an upper plunger component described herein) to flow into the surrounding environment. For example, the mask outer shell 812 of the exemplary mask component 810 can be defined in part by a mask ventilation surface 815. In various embodiments, in an exemplary situation where the sampling channel 814 of the mask component 810 is attached to the device body portion 820 (e.g., in an upper plunger component of the device body portion 820), the mask ventilation surface 815 may be positioned a predetermined distance away from the device body portion 820 and configured to provide an opening (e.g., an adapter ventilation opening) between the mask component 810 and the device body portion 820, such that at least a portion of the aerosol-depleted sample dispensed from the exhaust outlet portion of the device body portion 820 (e.g., from an opening / vent port in the plunger head member of the upper plunger component described herein) can be discharged through that opening into the surrounding environment. As further illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B, the exemplary mask component 810 may be configured such that the mask discharge surface 1215 of the mask component 810 is positioned a predetermined vertical distance away from the exterior surface 1226 of the device body 820 (e.g., the exterior surface of the aerosol collection device 800 (through which the air sample is dispensed through the exhaust outlet)) and provides a ventilation opening 1230, through which at least a portion of the aerosol-removed sample dispensed from the exterior surface 1226 can be discharged into the surrounding environment.As described herein, the sample can travel along the vent channel and through a filter member in the upper plunger component before being dispensed from the aerosol collection device 800. As such, aerosol can be removed from the sample by the filter member before being released into the surrounding environment.

[0280]

[0317] While the above description provides examples of ventilation openings 1230 defined (at least in part) by mask exhaust surface 1215, it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above description. In some examples, ventilation openings 1230 may be embodied as an adapter ventilation member of exemplary mask component 810, the adapter ventilation member including one or more tubular channels configured to at least in part define an air flow path extending between the exhaust outlet of aerosol collection device 800 and the ambient environment, facilitating delivery of an air sample exhausted from aerosol collection device 800 through the adapter ventilation channels to the ambient environment.

[0281]

[0318] While the above description provides an example of a sample transfer adapter as an exemplary mask component 810, it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above description. In some examples, the sample transfer adapter may be embodied as, for example, but not limited to, a sampling tunnel, a sampling hood, and / or other devices. In some embodiments, the sample transfer adapter may be in the form of a nasal swab capable of providing a biological sample.

[0282]

[0319] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B , an exemplary aerosol collection device 1300 can include a sample transfer adapter embodied as a sampling tunnel 1310. In various embodiments, the sampling tunnel 1310 can be in the form of a tubular structure having, for example, a sample inlet portion 1311 configured to accept a sample from a user and a sampling tunnel body portion 1312 configured to deliver the sample accepted from the sample inlet portion 1311 to a device body portion 1320 (to which the sampling tunnel 1310 can be attached). For example, the sampling tunnel body portion 1312 can be tubular-shaped and / or can include a hollow portion in the center that allows air to pass through. In some embodiments, the sampling tunnel 1310 can be embodied as a breathing straw. As such, a sample (e.g., exhaled breath from a user) can be administered into the exemplary device body portion 1320 via the sampling tunnel 1310.

[0283]

[0320] In various embodiments, the sampling tunnel 1310 can be configured to attach to the exemplary device body 1320 via means at least substantially similar to those of the exemplary mask component 810 described above. Further, in various embodiments, the exemplary sampling tunnel 1310 can include one or more adapter ventilation members configured to allow a predetermined volume of air dispensed from an exhaust outlet of the device body 1320 coupled to the sampling tunnel 1310 (e.g., from an opening / vent port in a plunger head member of an upper plunger component described herein) to flow into the surrounding environment. For example, the sampling tunnel 1310 can include a sampling tunnel ventilation surface 1315. In various embodiments, in an exemplary situation where the sampling tunnel 1310 is attached to the device body 1320, as described herein, the sampling tunnel ventilation surface 1315 may be positioned a predetermined distance from the device body 1320 and configured to provide an opening (e.g., an adapter ventilation opening) between the sampling tunnel 1310 and the device body 1320, through which at least a portion of the aerosol-depleted sample dispensed from the exhaust outlet of the device body 1320 (e.g., from an opening / vent port in a plunger head member of an upper plunger component described herein) may be discharged into the surrounding environment.As shown in Figures 13A and 13B, the sampling tunnel ventilation surface 1315 is positioned a predetermined vertical distance from the exterior surface 1326 of the device body 1320 (e.g., the exterior surface of the device body 1320 through which the air sample is dispensed through the exhaust outlet) and is configured to provide an adapter ventilation opening 1330, such that at least a portion of the aerosol-depleted sample dispensed from the exterior surface 1326 can be discharged into the surrounding environment through the adapter ventilation opening 1330.

[0284]

[0321] 14A and 14B illustrate an exemplary aerosol collection device 1400 including a sample transfer adapter embodied as a sampling hood 1410. In various embodiments, the sampling hood 1410 can define a sampling channel 1414 having a sample inlet portion 1411 configured to accept a sample from a user, for example. The sampling channel 1414 can be embodied as a tubular structure configured to deliver the accepted sample from the sample inlet portion 1411 to a device body portion 1420 (to which the sampling channel 1414 can be attached). For example, the sampling channel 1414 can be a tubular structure and / or can include a hollow portion in the center that allows air to pass through. In various embodiments, the sampling channel 1414 can further include a sampling channel outlet portion 1416 through which a sample traveling along the hollow interior of the sampling channel 1414 can be dispensed. For example, the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 may be defined by an orifice positioned at the opposite end of the tubular structure of the sampling channel 1414 relative to the sample inlet portion 1411. In various embodiments, a sample of air received by the sampling hood 1410 may be dispensed from the sampling hood 1410 via the sampling channel outlet portion 1416 to a fluidically downstream component of the aerosol collection device 1400 (e.g., a flow channel in the device body portion 1420).

[0285]

[0322] In various embodiments, the sampling hood 1410 can be configured to attach to the exemplary device body 1420 via means at least substantially similar to those of the exemplary mask component 810 and / or sampling tunnel 1310 described above. Further, in various embodiments, the exemplary sampling hood 1410 can include one or more adapter ventilation members configured to allow a predetermined volume of air dispensed from an exhaust outlet of the device body 1420 coupled to the sampling hood 1410 to flow into a downstream environment fluidly connected thereto. For example, the sampling hood 1410 can include a hood cover 1412, which is embodied as a substantially hollow shell housing that at least partially defines a hood interior cavity 1413 of the sampling hood 1410. For example, the hood interior cavity 1413 of the sampling hood 1410 can include at least a portion of an interior volume within the hood cover 1412, as defined by the hollow configuration of the hood cover 1412. In various embodiments, the sampling hood 1410 can include a sampling hood outlet portion 1417 through which sample received in the hood interior cavity 1413 can flow and be dispensed from the sampling hood 1410. For example, the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 can be an orifice extending through the hood cover 1412, which is configured to fluidly connect the hood interior cavity 1413 to a downstream environment connected to the sampling hood outlet portion 1417, such that the air sample in the hood interior cavity 1413 (e.g., sample dispensed from the device body portion 1420) can flow through the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 to the downstream environment (e.g., a flow channel).

[0286]

[0323] In various embodiments, the hood interior cavity 1413 can be configured to receive a predetermined volume of air dispensed from the exhaust outlet of the device body 1420. For example, in the exemplary situation where the sampling hood 1410 is attached to the device body 1420 (e.g., via an attachment means at the distal end of the sampling channel 1414), the hood interior cavity 1413 can be configured to receive a sample dispensed from the exhaust outlet of the device body 1420. As shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B , the hood cover 1412 can include a hood cover sealing surface 1415 configured to engage a surface of the device body 1420 to create at least a substantially airtight seal between the sampling hood 1410 and the device body 1420 along the hood cover sealing surface 1415. For example, in the exemplary situation where the sampling channel 1414 of the sampling hood 1410 is attached to the device body 1420 (e.g., at an upper plunger component of the device body 1420), the sampling hood 1410 may be configured such that the hood cover sealing surface 1415 physically engages one or more exterior surfaces 1426 of the device body 1420 (e.g., the exterior surfaces of the device body 1420 through which the air sample is dispensed through the vent channels) to provide a sealed perimeter around the one or more exterior surfaces 1426 of the device body 1420. The hood cover sealing surface 1415 may be configured to prevent sample dispensed from the device body 1420 (e.g., via one or more vent channels disposed around the exterior surfaces 1426) from flowing directly into the surrounding environment without passing through at least a portion of the sampling hood 1410 (e.g., the sampling hood outlet portion 1417).14B, the sampling hood 1410 may be attached to the device body 1420 such that the sealed perimeter provided by the hood cover sealing surface 1415 extends along the exterior surface 1426 and surrounds each of one or more outlets of one or more vent channels of the device body 1420 (e.g., surrounding one or more openings / vent ports in a plunger head member of an upper plunger component described herein). In such an exemplary configuration, the sampling hood 1410 may be configured such that the entire sample dispensed from the device body 1420 (e.g., via one or more vent channels) is received by the hood interior cavity 1413 and directed toward the sampling hood outlet 1417.

[0287]

[0324] In various embodiments, a portion of the hood cover 1412 at least substantially adjacent the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 can be configured to mechanically attach to one or more external components defining one or more downstream environments. For example, the hood cover 1412 can be configured to mechanically attach to an external component defining the controlled downstream environment to fluidly connect the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 to the controlled downstream environment. In such an exemplary situation, the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 can be configured to fluidly connect the hood interior cavity 1413 to the controlled downstream environment such that sample dispensed from the device body portion 1420 into the hood interior cavity 1413 can further flow through the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 to the controlled downstream environment. In various embodiments, the controlled environment can exhibit one or more predefined environmental conditions, such as, for example, a known pressure, temperature, volume, and / or aerosol composition. For example, a controlled environment disposed downstream from the sampling hood outlet portion 1417 may be utilized to enable experimentation, observation, and / or analysis of air samples dispensed into the controlled environment from the device body portion 1420.

[0288]

[0325] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide technical advantages and benefits in sample collection, such as, but not limited to, breath aerosol collection. As explained above, exemplary aerosol collection devices according to examples of the present disclosure can include a buffer. In some embodiments, the buffer can be tailored to a particular subsequent pathogen detection technique.

[0289]

[0326] When samples are collected by nasal swab, an intermediate step is required to extract the pathogen from the swab into a liquid medium. The liquid medium can be a buffer, but the exact composition of the medium will vary depending on the immediate plans for the sample. For example, if the sample will be transported via mail or stored prior to analysis, a stabilizing medium may be used. If the sample will be analyzed immediately (e.g., within 2-3 hours), the medium may contain chemicals intended to extract and preserve the RNA / DNA context for a PCR-type assay.

[0290]

[0327] According to examples of the present disclosure, implementing an aerosol collection device can eliminate the need for a nasal swab, and the physics of the aerosol collection device are not affected by the additional chemical components of the liquid medium. For example, a specific liquid medium for a specific downstream analysis can be used as a buffer. Various embodiments of the present disclosure can combine the sample collection step with the pathogen extraction step, which can save additional labor and reduce the risk of sample contamination. In some embodiments, different liquids can be stored in a set of capsule components within a single aerosol collection device, allowing the liquids to be combined and reacted at the moment of use.

[0291]

[0328] 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D illustrate exemplary views of an exemplary capsule component 1500 according to various examples of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 15A illustrates an exemplary top view of the exemplary capsule component 1500. FIG. 15B illustrates an exemplary bottom view of the exemplary capsule component 1500. FIG. 15C illustrates an exemplary perspective view of the exemplary capsule component 1500. FIG. 15D illustrates another exemplary perspective view of the exemplary capsule component 1500.

[0292]

[0329] As shown in the exemplary capsule component 1500 illustrated in FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D, the exemplary capsule component 1500 includes a holder member 1501 and a cap member 1503.

[0293]

[0330] In some embodiments, the buffer solution is sealed within the holder member 1501 by a cap member 1503. For example, the holder member 1501 defines a cavity having an opening on a bottom surface 1505 of the holder member 1501. In some embodiments, the buffer solution is disposed within the cavity defined by the holder member 1501. In some embodiments, the cap member 1503 seals the opening on the bottom surface 1505 of the holder member 1501.

[0294]

[0331] In some embodiments, the cap member 1503 is attached to the holder member 1501 through a chemical adhesive, such as, but not limited to, a chemical glue. In some embodiments, the cap member 1503 is attached to the holder member 1501 through other means.

[0295]

[0332] 15C and 15D, the holder member 1501 can include a handle portion 1507 and a body portion 1509. In the example shown in Figures 15C and 15D, the body portion 1509 stores a buffer solution. In some embodiments, the handle portion 1507 extends from a top surface of the body portion 1509.

[0296]

[0333] In some embodiments, the handle portion 1507 can define an opening 1511. In some embodiments, after the aerosol collection device has been used, a hook (e.g., an Allen wrench, etc.) can be used to engage the opening 1511 to pull the capsule component 1500 out of the aerosol collection device.

[0297]

[0334] In some embodiments, an exemplary aerosol collection device can include one or more capsule components. For example, an exemplary aerosol collection device can include a first capsule component that stores a first buffer solution and a second capsule component that stores a second buffer solution. In some embodiments, the first buffer solution is the same as the second buffer solution. In some embodiments, the first buffer solution is different from the second buffer solution.

[0298]

[0335] For example, the first buffer and / or the second buffer can contain chemicals that extract and / or preserve genetic proteins collected from the sample. In some embodiments, the first buffer and / or the second buffer can contain chemicals that can assist in downstream analysis of the collected sample. In some embodiments, the first buffer and the second buffer can combine and react when they are released. In some embodiments, the buffer can have a pH level and ion concentration level similar to that of human cells. In such embodiments, the buffer is a fluid that preserves the biological sample.

[0299]

[0336] In some embodiments, an exemplary buffer solution can include two reagents that interact with biological cells or proteins to produce either a color change or other property change, indicating the presence of the target cells or proteins. Additionally or alternatively, the capsule components can contain buffer solutions for positive and negative controls targeted to biological entities for downstream analysis. For example, some buffer solutions can assist in identifying and / or detecting biological entities when the target virus is present in the sample. Additionally or alternatively, some buffer solutions can assist in identifying and / or detecting biological entities when the target virus is not present in the sample. In some embodiments, some components can contain the same positive and / or negative controls, and as such, the capsule components can contain different solutions. In some embodiments, the capsule components can store 0.7 milliliters of buffer solution. In some embodiments, the capsule components can store less than 0.7 milliliters or more than 0.7 milliliters of buffer solution (e.g., approximately 0.1 milliliters).

[0300]

[0337] In some embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device may include three capsule components, i.e., a first capsule component, a second capsule component, and a third capsule component. In some embodiments, the buffers stored in each of the first capsule component, the second capsule component, and the third capsule component are the same. In some embodiments, two of the buffers stored in each of the first capsule component, the second capsule component, and the third capsule component are the same. In some embodiments, the buffers stored in each of the first capsule component, the second capsule component, and the third capsule component are different. In some embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device may include less than three or more than three capsule components.

[0301]

[0338] 16 illustrates an exemplary view of at least a portion of an exemplary capsule extraction body member 1602, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the capsule extraction body member 1602 includes a protrusion 1606 positioned on an upper surface 1604 of the capsule extraction body member 1602.

[0302]

[0339] 17A and 17B illustrate exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary capsule component 1701 and an exemplary capsule extraction body member 1703 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0303]

[0340] As described above, an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure can include a capsule extraction body member 1703 and at least one capsule component (e.g., capsule component 1701). In some embodiments, capsule component 1701 stores a buffer solution, as described above. In some embodiments, capsule component 1701 is positioned on capsule extraction body member 1703.

[0304]

[0341] In some embodiments, the aerosol collection device includes a container component 1711 having an inner lateral surface 1713. In some embodiments, the container component 1711 includes at least two vertical ridge members disposed on the inner lateral surface 1713 of the container component 1711. In the example shown in FIG. 17A , the exemplary container component 1711 includes a first vertical ridge member 1715 and a second vertical ridge member 1717.

[0305]

[0342] In some embodiments, at least a portion of each of the at least one capsule component is positioned between at least two vertical ridge members. In the example shown in FIG. 17A , the handle portion 1719 of the capsule component 1701 is positioned between the first vertical ridge member 1715 and the second vertical ridge member 1717. As such, in some embodiments, the first vertical ridge member 1715 and the second vertical ridge member 1717 secure the position of the capsule component 1701 and prevent the capsule component 1701 from sliding along the inner lateral surface 1713 of the container component 1711.

[0306]

[0343] In some embodiments, the container component 1711 includes at least one horizontal ridge member (e.g., horizontal ridge member 1721) disposed on the inner lateral surface 1713 of the container component 1711. In some embodiments, at least the top surface of each of the at least one capsule component is coplanar with the top surface of the at least one horizontal ridge. In the example shown in FIG. 17A , the top surface of the capsule component 1701 (e.g., the top surface of the handle portion 1719 of the capsule component 1701) is coplanar with the top surface of the horizontal ridge member 1721.

[0307]

[0344] 17B, ​​the capsule extraction body member 1703 includes a protrusion 1705 extending from the top surface of the capsule extraction body member 1703. In some embodiments, the cap member 1707 of the capsule component 1701 is positioned over the protrusion 1705. Because the protrusion 1705 extends from the top surface of the capsule extraction body member 1703, only a portion of the cap member 1707 contacts the protrusion 1705 of the capsule extraction body member 1703, and an air gap 1709 is formed between the top surface of the capsule extraction body member 1703 (other than the protrusion 1705) and the cap member 1707 of the capsule component 1701.

[0308]

[0345] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide various technical advantages and benefits. For example, an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure can include at least one capsule component. In some embodiments, the at least one capsule component is engaged and punctured during operation of the aerosol collection device to provide liquid insertion into the filter component at the moment of use, which can prevent premature liquid insertion and can extend the shelf life of the aerosol collection device.

[0309]

[0346] 18A and 18B illustrate at least a portion of an exemplary capsule component and / or a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component, respectively, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 18A illustrates a bottom portion of an exemplary upper plunger component 1803 and an upper portion of a capsule component 1801. FIG. 18B illustrates a bottom portion of a capsule component 1801 and an upper portion of a capsule extraction body member 1805.

[0310]

[0347] As described above, an exemplary aerosol collection device according to examples of the present disclosure can include at least one capsule component and an upper plunger component. In the example shown in Figures 18A and 18B, the exemplary aerosol collection device can include at least capsule component 1801 and upper plunger component 1803.

[0311]

[0348] In some embodiments, capsule component 1801 stores a buffer solution. In some embodiments, the top surface of capsule component 1801 contacts the bottom surface of upper plunger component 1803 (e.g., the bottom surface of at least one leg portion), as shown in FIG.

[0312]

[0349] As described above, capsule component 1801 can include a holder member 1807 and a cap member 1809. In some embodiments, holder member 1807 of capsule component 1801 defines a cavity having an opening on a bottom surface of capsule component 1801 for storing a buffer solution. In some embodiments, cap member 1809 seals the opening of holder member 1807.

[0313]

[0350] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cap member 1809 contacts the capsule extraction body member 1805. For example, a portion of the cap member 1809 contacts a protrusion 1813 of the capsule extraction body member 1805, and an air gap 1811 is formed between the cap member 1809 and the top surface of the capsule extraction body member 1805, similar to that described above.

[0314]

[0351] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component 1803 contacts the top surface of the holder member of the capsule component 1801 (eg, the top surface of the handle portion of the holder member).

[0315]

[0352] In some embodiments, a vertical downward force can be exerted on the top surface of the upper plunger component 1803. The vertical force can be triggered, for example, but not limited to, by connecting an aerosol collection device to the upper plunger component 1803, as described above.

[0316]

[0353] In some embodiments, in response to receiving a vertically downward force applied to an upper surface of the upper plunger component 1803, the upper plunger component 1803 is configured to transmit the vertically downward force to the capsule component 1801, causing vertical movement of the capsule component 1801. In some embodiments, the vertical movement of the capsule component 1801 causes the capsule extraction body member 1805 (e.g., the protrusion 1813) to break the cap member 1809 of the capsule component 1801. After the cap member 1809 is broken, the buffer solution stored in the holder member 1807 of the capsule component 1801 flows onto the capsule extraction body member 1805. In some embodiments, the cap member 1809 can include a material such as, but not limited to, polypropylene (e.g., the cap member 1809 can be in the form of a polypropylene film). Additionally or alternatively, the cap member 1809 can include other materials.

[0317]

[0354] 19 and 20 each illustrate an exemplary view of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device after the buffer solution has been released, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0318]

[0355] Referring now to FIG. 19, an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol collection device 1900 is shown, according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0319]

[0356] 19 , the exemplary aerosol collection device 1900 includes a first vertical ridge member 1901 and a second vertical ridge member 1903 disposed on an inner lateral surface 1909 of the exemplary aerosol collection device 1900. As described above, the handle portion of the holder member of the capsule component 1902 can be positioned and secured between the first vertical ridge member 1901 and the second vertical ridge member 1903. In the example shown in FIG. 19 , when a vertical downward force is exerted on the top surface of the upper plunger component 1911, the leg portion 1907 of the upper plunger component 1911 moves downward between the first vertical ridge member 1901 and the second vertical ridge member 1903, pushing the handle portion of the holder member of the capsule component 1905, causing it to move downward.

[0320]

[0357] In some embodiments, after the cap member of the capsule component is broken by the capsule extraction body member (e.g., a protrusion on the upper surface of the capsule extraction body member), the capsule component moves downward until it is stopped by the capsule extraction body member. In the example shown in FIG. 19, the capsule component 1902 is at least partially stopped by the capsule extraction body member 1904. In this state, the capsule extraction body member 1904 is at least partially within the cavity of the capsule component 1902 (where the buffer solution was previously stored).

[0321]

[0358] As described above, according to examples of the present disclosure, a filter component is positioned adjacent to the capsule extraction body member of the container component of an exemplary aerosol collection device. Referring now to Figure 20, an exemplary cross-sectional view of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device 2000 is shown.

[0322]

[0359] 20 , the filter component 2002 is positioned adjacent to the capsule extraction body member 2004. After receiving a vertical downward force, the upper plunger component 2008 pushes the capsule component 2006 downward, causing the capsule extraction body member 2004 to break the seal component of the capsule component 2006 and release the buffer solution from the capsule component 2006. Because the filter component 2002 is positioned adjacent to the capsule extraction body member 2004, the buffer solution flows to the filter component 2002 and wets the filter component 2002.

[0323]

[0360] As such, according to examples of the present disclosure, an exemplary method for operating an aerosol collection device is provided. In some embodiments, the exemplary method includes exerting a vertically downward force on an upper surface of the upper plunger, causing the release of buffer solution from at least one capsule component onto the filter component. As described above, the exemplary method can further include providing a sample to the filter component (for example, but not limited to, a user coughing into the aerosol collection device through a sample transfer adapter described herein).

[0324]

[0361] As described above, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure provide various technical advantages and benefits, for example, providing an aerosol collection device capable of defining a flow channel for collecting aerosol from a sample and / or a vent channel for expelling a sample from the aerosol collection device.

[0325]

[0362] FIG. 21 illustrates at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component 2101 and at least a portion of an exemplary capsule component 2103 according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0326]

[0363] 21 , the bottom surface of the upper plunger component 2101 contacts the top surface of the capsule component 2103. For example, the bottom surface of the leg portion 2111 of the upper plunger component 2101 contacts the top surface of the capsule component 2103. As described above, the example upper plunger component 2101 is capable of receiving a vertically downward force exerted on the top surface of the example upper plunger component 2101. The vertically downward force can cause the example upper plunger component 2101 to move downward between the first vertical ridge member 2105 and the second vertical ridge member 2107, which are disposed on the inner lateral surface 2109 of the container component. The vertical downward force may further cause the cap member of the capsule component 2103 to be broken and the buffer solution to be released from the capsule component 2103.

[0327]

[0364] As described above, the first vertical ridge member 2105 and the second vertical ridge member 2107 can include at least one vertical locking ridge member and at least one vertical stop ridge member. Referring now to Figure 22, an exemplary ridge member is illustrated positioned on an inner lateral surface 2208 of an exemplary container component according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0328]

[0365] In the example shown in Figure 22, vertical locking ridge 2202, vertical stop ridge 2204, and horizontal ridge 2206 are disposed on an inner side surface 2208 of the container component. In the example shown in Figure 22, vertical locking ridge 2202 is connected to horizontal ridge 2206 and is disposed orthogonal to horizontal ridge 2206. Additionally or alternatively, vertical stop ridge 2204 is connected to horizontal ridge 2206 and is disposed orthogonal to horizontal ridge 2206.

[0329]

[0366] In some embodiments, the vertical locking ridge 2202 can include a bevel that extends from the inner lateral surface 2208 at an angle less than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle is 45 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle is 51 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle can be other values. The angle allows the vertical locking ridge 2202 to deflect inward instead of stopping the rotation of the legs of the upper plunger component. In other words, the bevel allows the legs of the upper plunger component to rotate and slide past the vertical locking ridge 2202, but prevents the legs of the upper plunger component from rotating back after they have rotated past the vertical locking ridge 2202. For example, before sliding past the vertical locking ridge 2202, the upper plunger component can be in a first configuration, in which the upper plunger component is in contact with the capsule component. After sliding over the vertical locking ridge member 2202, the upper plunger component can be in a second configuration in which the upper plunger component is in contact with the lower plunger component, details of the first and second configurations being described further herein.

[0330]

[0367] In some embodiments, the vertical stop ridge member 2204 can include two side surfaces, each having an orthogonal orientation with the inner lateral surface 2208. In some embodiments, the vertical stop ridge member 2204 includes a top surface, connected to the two side surfaces, having the same curvature as the inner lateral surface 2208. In some embodiments, the vertical stop ridge member 2204 does not include a slope that extends at an angle of less than 90 degrees from the inner lateral surface 2208. As such, the vertical stop ridge member 2204 prevents the leg portion of the upper plunger component from rotating and sliding past the vertical stop ridge member 2204.

[0331]

[0368] In some embodiments, the height of the vertical locking ridge member 2202 (e.g., the distance between the top point of the vertical locking ridge member 2202 and the point above the inner lateral surface 2208 from which the vertical locking ridge member 2202 protrudes) is less than (e.g., half the height of) the height of the vertical stop ridge member 2204 (e.g., the distance between the top surface of the vertical stop ridge member 2204 and the inner lateral surface 2208 from which the side surface of the vertical stop ridge member 2204 protrudes), such that the leg portion of the upper plunger component can slide over the vertical locking ridge member 2202 but cannot slide over the vertical stop ridge member 2204.

[0332]

[0369] Additionally or alternatively, the height of the vertical locking ridge member 2202 (e.g., the distance between the top point of the vertical locking ridge member 2202 and the point on the inner lateral surface 2208 from which the vertical locking ridge member 2202 projects) is less than (e.g., half the height of) the horizontal ridge member 2206 (e.g., the distance between the top point of the horizontal ridge member 2206 and the point on the inner lateral surface 2208 from which the horizontal ridge member 2206 projects).

[0333]

[0370] 23 and 24 illustrate exemplary views of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device after the upper plunger component has been rotated.

[0334]

[0371] In particular, Figure 23 illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of at least a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component 2303. In the example shown in Figure 23, the leg portion 2301 of the exemplary upper plunger component 2303 has been rotated and slid past a vertical locking ridge member 2305 and stopped at a vertical stop ridge member 2307. For example, a user can rotate the plunger head member of the upper plunger component, which causes the leg portion 2301 of the exemplary upper plunger component 2303 to rotate.

[0335]

[0372] In some embodiments, rotation and sliding of the leg portion 2301 of the upper plunger component 2303 is vertically restricted by a horizontal ridge member 2206. In some embodiments, the horizontal ridge member 2206 prevents the leg portion 2301 (and the upper plunger component 2303) from moving vertically upward.

[0336]

[0373] FIG. 24 illustrates an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol collection device 2400 after the upper plunger component 2401 has been rotated.

[0337]

[0374] As explained above, the leg portions 2403 of the upper plunger component 2401 are stopped from further rotation by vertical stop ridge members 2405. In the configuration shown in FIG. 24 , the bottom surface of the upper plunger component 2401 (e.g., the bottom surface of the leg portions 2403) contacts the top surfaces of the plunger support wings 2407 of the lower plunger component 2409.

[0338]

[0375] As such, examples of the present disclosure can provide an exemplary aerosol collection device that includes a lower plunger component and an upper plunger component. Similar to that described above, the lower plunger component can include a plurality of plunger support wings, each of which is positioned between two of the plurality of capsule components.

[0339]

[0376] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component is configured to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration, the second configuration being triggered by a rotational force (e.g., a user rotating a plunger head member of the upper plunger component). In other words, the upper plunger component, which may start in the first configuration, may be rotated to arrive at the second configuration.

[0340]

[0377] In a first configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 21 ), the bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts the top surface of each of the plurality of capsule components, e.g., the bottom surface of at least one leg portion contacts the top surface of each of the plurality of capsule components.

[0341]

[0378] As described above, in some embodiments, the lower plunger component and the upper plunger component are housed within a container component having at least one vertical locking ridge and at least one vertical stop ridge disposed on an inner lateral surface of the container component. In some embodiments, a rotational force on the upper plunger component causes at least a portion of the at least one leg portion to rotate (from a first configuration) past the at least one vertical locking ridge and stop at the at least one vertical stop ridge (and reach a second configuration).

[0342]

[0379] In a second configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 24), the bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts the top surface of each of the plurality of plunger support wings of the lower plunger component, e.g., the bottom surface of at least one leg portion contacts the top surface of each of the plurality of plunger support wings.

[0343]

[0380] Thus, exemplary methods for operating an aerosol collection device are provided in accordance with examples of the present disclosure. The exemplary method can include exerting a rotational force on an upper plunger component, causing the upper plunger component to translate from a first configuration to a second configuration. In some embodiments, the exemplary method further includes exerting a normal force on an upper surface of the upper plunger after exerting the rotational force, details of which are described in connection with at least Figures 25 through 29B.

[0344]

[0381] 25 illustrates an example isolated view showing an example tube component 2503 and an example upper plunger component 2501 according to an example of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 25 illustrates an example structural relationship between the example tube component 2503 and the example upper plunger component 2501 according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0345]

[0382] In the example shown in FIG. 25, the upper portion of the pipe member 2505 of the tube component 2503 is positioned within the central collar portion 2507 of the upper plunger component 2501 .

[0346]

[0383] In the exemplary assembled aerosol collection device, when a vertical force is applied to the top surface of the upper plunger component 2501, at least a portion of the bent bluff ring member 2513 of the tube component 2503 enters into the gap 2511 between the central ring portion 2507 of the upper plunger component 2501 and the intermediate ring portion 2509 of the upper plunger component 2501. In the example shown in FIG.

[0347]

[0384] 26A, 26B, and 26C each illustrate at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device 2600 according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0348]

[0385] 26A, an exemplary aerosol collection device 2600 includes an upper plunger component 2602 and a tube component 2604. Similar to that described above, the upper plunger component 2602 includes a central ring portion 2606 and an intermediate ring portion 2608. In the example shown in FIG. 26A, the central ring portion 2606 is disposed within the intermediate ring portion 2608, forming a gap between the central ring portion 2606 and the intermediate ring portion 2608.

[0349]

[0386] In some embodiments, the tube component 2604 includes a bent bluff ring member 2605. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the central ring portion 2606 of the upper plunger component 2602 is positioned within and in contact with the bent bluff ring member 2605 of the tube component 2604.

[0350]

[0387] In some embodiments, the upper plunger component 2602 includes a plunger head member 2610 that defines a central bore 2612. In some embodiments, the tube component 2604 includes a pipe member 2614 that is positioned at least partially within the central annular portion 2606 and is connected to the central bore 2612, forming a portion of a flow channel for receiving a sample within the aerosol collection device 2600.

[0351]

[0388] For example, a sample may enter aerosol collection device 2600 through central bore 2612 (from the sample transfer adapter), travel through pipe member 2614, travel downward past valve component 2616, and arrive into valve support ring member 2618. Dashed arrow 2620 in FIG. 26A indicates an exemplary flow direction of a sample in the flow channel. For example, the flow channel may include a portion defined by at least central bore 2612, pipe member 2614 (including the gap between valve component 2616 and the inner surface of pipe member 2614), and valve support ring member 2618. In such an example, the sample may travel through central bore 2612, through pipe member 2614 (including the gap between valve component 2616 and the inner surface of pipe member 2614), and arrive into valve support ring member 2618. In some embodiments, the sample may interact with a buffer solution in filter component 2622. For example, when a user blows air into the sample transfer adapter, the air travels through the flow channel and into the buffer solution, forming one or more bubbles.

[0352]

[0389] In some embodiments, a sample can be expelled from the aerosol collection device 2600 through a vent channel. The vent channel can include at least the space between the outer surface of the tube component 2604 and the lower plunger component 2630 and the gap between the central annular portion 2606 and the intermediate annular portion 2608. For example, the sample (e.g., air) can travel upward from the filter component 2622, along the gap between the outer surface of the tube component 2604 and the lower plunger component 2630, along the gap between the central annular portion 2606 and the intermediate annular portion 2608, and out of the aerosol collection device through one or more openings / ports on the plunger head member 2610. The dashed arrow 2624 in FIG. 26A indicates an exemplary vent direction for the sample in the vent channel.

[0353]

[0390] For example, when a user provides a sample to the aerosol collection device 2600 by coughing or blowing air into the aerosol collection device 2600 through a sample transfer adapter connected to the central bore 2612, the sample moves through the aerosol collection device 2600 by flowing through a flow channel that guides the air to the filter component 2622, and then is expelled from the aerosol collection device 2600 through a vent channel.

[0354]

[0391] 26B and 26C each illustrate an enlarged view of at least a portion of the aerosol collection device 2600. In the example shown in FIGS. 26B and 26C, a gap exists between the top surface of the vent bluff ring member 2605 and the bottom surface of the intermediate ring portion 2608, which is part of a vent channel that allows the sample to be expelled from the aerosol collection device 2600. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 26C, a sealing ridge 2631 may be disposed on the inner surface of the intermediate ring portion 2608. In some embodiments, the sealing ridge 2631 may be shaped similar to a ring. In some embodiments, the sealing ridge 2631 may be shaped differently. The sealing ridge 2631 is configured to seal the vent channel when a vertical downward force is applied to the upper plunger component, as described in more detail herein.

[0355]

[0392] 27A and 27B illustrate an exemplary view of an exemplary upper plunger component 2700 in relation to the flow and vent channels.

[0356]

[0393] As explained above, the sample can enter the aerosol collection device through opening 2701 in central bore 2703 of plunger head member 2705. The sample passes through tubing member 2709, which forms part of a flow channel, the flow direction of which is indicated by dashed arrow 2711 in FIG. 27B.

[0357]

[0394] As described above, the central ring portion 2715 and the intermediate ring portion 2713 define a portion of a vent channel for expelling the sample. For example, at least a portion of the gap between the central ring portion 2715 and the intermediate ring portion 2713 of the plunger body member 2707 defines at least a portion of the vent channel. The sample then travels through the aperture 2717 in the plunger head member 2705 and exits the aerosol collection device through the opening 2719. As described above, in some embodiments, a filter 2721 can be disposed between the plunger head member 2705 and the plunger body member 2707. In FIG. 27B , the dashed arrow 2723 illustrates the vent direction of the sample in the vent channel.

[0358]

[0395] 28 illustrates an exemplary view of at least a portion of an exemplary tube component and a portion of an exemplary upper plunger component according to an example of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 28 illustrates the structural relationship between the exemplary tube component and the exemplary upper plunger component when a vertically downward force is applied to the top surface of the exemplary upper plunger component (which is after a rotational force has been applied to the upper plunger component in accordance with what has been described above).

[0359]

[0396] 28 , the central ring portion 2802 and the intermediate ring portion 2804 may move vertically downward, and the vent bluff ring member 2806 may enter the gap between the central ring portion 2802 and the intermediate ring portion 2804. As the vent bluff ring member 2806 enters the gap between the central ring portion 2802 and the intermediate ring portion 2804, the sealing ridge 2808 on the inner surface of the intermediate ring portion 2804 may contact the outer surface of the vent bluff ring member 2806. When the sealing ridge 2808 moves past the opening 2810 on the vent bluff ring member 2806, the sealing ridge 2808 blocks and seals the vent channel so that the sample can no longer exit through the vent channel. In some embodiments, the central ring portion 2802 is longer than the intermediate ring portion 2804 so that when the central ring portion 2802 and the intermediate ring portion 2804 move vertically downward, the central ring portion 2802 pushes air between the bent bluff ring member 2806 and the pipe member 2820 through the opening 2810.

[0360]

[0397] 29A and 29B each illustrate an exemplary cross-sectional view of at least a portion of an exemplary aerosol collection device 2900 according to an example of the present disclosure.

[0361]

[0398] 29A and 29B, the exemplary aerosol collection device 2900 includes at least a lower plunger component 2901. As shown, a bottom surface of the lower plunger component 2901 is in contact with a filter component 2903.

[0362]

[0399] In some embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 2900 includes an upper plunger component 2905 in contact with an upper surface of a lower plunger component 2901 (e.g., in the second configuration as described above). As such, in response to receiving a vertical force exerted on the upper surface of the upper plunger component 2905, the upper plunger component 2905 is configured to transmit the vertical force to the lower plunger component 2901, causing vertical movement of the lower plunger component 2901. In some embodiments, the vertical movement of the lower plunger component 2901 causes the filter component 2903 to be squeezed such that the buffer solution containing the collected aerosol is expelled from the filter component 2903.

[0363]

[0400] Further, in some embodiments, the upper plunger component 2905 is configured to transmit a vertical force to the tube component 2907 because at least an upper portion of the pipe member 2911 of the tube component 2907 is received within the central annulus portion 2913 of the upper plunger component 2905. The vertical force causes the tube component 2907 to move downward, causing the valve component 2909 to come into contact with the middle portion of the tube component 2907, thereby sealing the flow channel. Furthermore, as described above in connection with at least FIG. 28 , the vertical force causes the sealing ridge 2915 to move downward along the vent bluff annulus member 2917 of the tube component 2907, thereby sealing the vent channel.

[0364]

[0401] As such, in some embodiments, after a vertically downward force is applied to the top surface of the upper plunger component 2905 when the upper plunger component 2905 is in the second configuration, both the flow channel and the vent channel are sealed, increasing the internal pressure to extract the buffer solution from the aerosol collection device 2900. In some embodiments, during operation, the cap member is secured back to the exemplary aerosol collection device (e.g., secured onto the upper plunger component 2905) after a user provides a sample to the aerosol collection device. In such embodiments, to apply a vertically downward force to the top surface of the upper plunger component 2905, a user must remove the cap member from the exemplary aerosol collection device (e.g., from the upper plunger component 2905) so that the vertically downward force can be applied to the upper plunger component.

[0365]

[0402] Referring now to FIG. 30, a portion of an exemplary cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 is shown.

[0366]

[0403] In various embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 can include a device body portion 3026 that includes an upper plunger component 3007, where one or more of the sample transfer adapters (e.g., a mask component, a sampling tunnel, and / or a sampling hood, etc.) can be removably secured to the upper plunger component 3007. In the example shown in FIG. 30 , the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 can include the upper plunger component 3007 having a central bore 3011 embodied as an orifice extending through a generally central portion of the upper plunger component 3007. In some embodiments, the central bore 3011 can allow sample to enter the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 through a flow channel. In various embodiments, the central bore 3011 is configured to receive at least a portion of a sample transfer adapter (e.g., a mask component, a sampling tunnel, and / or a sampling hood, etc.) to at least partially secure the sample transfer adapter to the device body portion 3026 of the aerosol collection device 3020. For example, in some embodiments, the sampling channel of the exemplary sample transfer adapter may be mechanically secured within the central bore 3011 of the exemplary upper plunger component 3007 via various means, as described herein, such that an air flow path extending from the sample outlet portion of the sampling channel to the central bore 3011 of the aerosol collection device 3020 may remain at least substantially unobstructed, as described herein. For example, a user may breathe into the sample transfer adapter (e.g., a mask component and sample (e.g., exhaled air) may pass both through the sample transfer adapter (e.g., through the sample outlet portion of the sampling channel) and the central bore 3011 of the flow channel.

[0367]

[0404] In various embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 can be configured so that a sample received by the upper plunger component 3007 can flow through the central bore 3011 to the central passages 3017A and 3017B of the device body portion 3026 as part of a flow channel. As described in more detail herein, in some embodiments, the central passages 3017A and 3017B of the device body portion 3026 can include a tubular channel extending at least substantially along the central axis of the device body portion 3026 that allows air to pass therethrough. For example, in various embodiments, the central passages 3017A and 3017B can define an air flow path extending between the upper plunger component 3007 and a bottom portion (e.g., a valve support collar) of the aerosol collection device 3020 such that a sample of air received by the device body 3026 via the central bore 3011 can be directed to the bottom portion of the aerosol collection device 3020 (e.g., toward a bottom surface of an interior portion of the device body 3026). In various embodiments, the bottom portion of the aerosol collection device 3020 (e.g., in the valve support collar) can be embodied as a breath analyzer mixing chamber.

[0368]

[0405] For example, in various embodiments, the mixing chamber of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 can include at least a portion of the aerosol collection device 3020 components (including at least the valve support ring member 3024, the sample distribution ring member 3023, and / or the filter component 3005, etc.) configured to enable the dynamic aerosol capture and / or collected sample extraction functionality of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020. As described in further detail herein, the filter component 3005 configured to receive an air sample and capture at least a portion of the aerosol present in the sample can be disposed in a bottom portion (e.g., the mixing chamber) of the aerosol collection device 3020.

[0369]

[0406] In various embodiments, the air sample flowing along the central passage 3017B can pass through a gap between the valve component 3018 and the tube component 3050 and then into the valve support ring member 3024, which defines a terminal end of the central passage 3017B disposed in a bottom portion of the device body. In various embodiments, the valve support ring member 3024 can include a tubular channel disposed in an at least substantially coaxial configuration with the central passage 3017B along a central axis of the device body 3026. The valve support ring member 3024 can be configured to accept the air sample flowing along a flow channel defined at least in part by the central passage 3017B. In various embodiments, the exemplary valve support ring member 3024 can include one or more outlets distributed annularly around an end portion of its substantially cylindrical sidewall. For example, as illustrated in Figures 30 through 31B, in various embodiments, one or more outlet portions of the central passage can include multiple outlet portions collectively configured to dispense a sample received by the valve support ring member 3024 in at least a substantially uniform annular distribution.

[0370]

[0407] In various embodiments, the aerosol collection device 3020 can be configured such that sample dispensed from one or more outlets 3031 of the valve support ring member 3024 can be provided to the sample distribution ring member 3023. In various embodiments, the sample distribution ring member 3023 can be configured to further promote at least a substantially uniform annular distribution of the air sample as the sample moves radially outward toward the filter element 3005 of the aerosol collection device 3020. As described herein, the sample distribution ring member 3023 can promote at least a substantially uniform annular distribution of the sample throughout the filter element 3005 positioned annularly around the exterior of the sample distribution ring member 3023. In various embodiments, the sample distribution ring member 3023 can include a sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025. The sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 of the sample distribution ring member 3023 can at least partially define an internal chamber cavity embodied as an interior volume within a hollow central portion of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025. In various embodiments, the sample distribution ring member 3023 can be positioned within the device body 3026 such that the central axis of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 is at least substantially coaxial with the valve support ring member 3024, e.g., in a position centered about the central axis of the device body 3026. In such an exemplary configuration, the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can be at least partially defined by an inner diameter at least substantially larger than the outer diameter of the valve support ring member 3024, such that the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can surround at least a portion of the valve support ring member 3024. For example, the aerosol collection device 3020 may be configured so that the inner surface of the sample distribution ring member side wall portion 3025 is separated from the outer surface of the valve support ring member 3024 by a gap defined radially relative to the central axis of the two coaxial components.For example, in various embodiments, the radial gap between the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 and the exterior of the valve support ring member 3024 can include an at least substantially uniform distance throughout at least a portion of the length of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 (e.g., measured longitudinally parallel to the central axis of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025). By way of example, the radial gap between the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 and the exterior of the valve support ring member 3024 can be defined by an at least substantially uniform radial distance throughout at least an annular portion of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 (e.g., measured circularly around the central axis of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025).

[0371]

[0408] In various embodiments, the radial gap between the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 and the exterior of the valve support ring member 3024 can define an opening 3019, which extends annularly around the entire interior surface of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025. In various embodiments, the opening 3019 can be fluidly connected to one or more outlets 3031 of the valve support ring member 3024 such that an air sample dispensed from the one or more outlets 3031 can be distributed throughout the opening 3019. For example, the opening 3019 can define at least a portion of an internal chamber cavity of the sample distribution ring member 3023. In such an exemplary configuration, the air sample, upon being dispensed from the one or more outlets 3031, can initially be retained within the internal chamber cavity of the sample distribution ring member 3023.

[0372]

[0409] In various embodiments, the aerosol collection device 3020 can include one or more filter components configured to capture at least a portion of aerosols present in a sample received by the aerosol collection device 3020. For example, in various embodiments, the filter component can include an at least substantially porous material such that a sample containing one or more aerosols can be received by and retrained by the filter component. In some embodiments, the one or more aerosols can migrate along at least a portion of the filter component, as described herein. In various embodiments, the aerosol collection device 3020 can be configured such that the cylindrically shaped filter component 3005 can be positioned at least substantially adjacent to the outer surface of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025. For example, at least a portion of the inner surface of the cylindrically shaped filter component 3005 can define a receiving surface, which can be positioned against the outer surface of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 such that the filter component 3005 is physically engaged with the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025.

[0373]

[0410] Further, in various embodiments, as shown in the particular exemplary aerosol collection device illustrated in FIG. 31B , the aerosol collection device 3020 (e.g., the device body 3026) can include a filter support body member 3127, which is embodied as a material recess, and in which at least a portion of the cylindrically-shaped filter component 3005 can be disposed. For example, the filter support body member 3127 can be positioned directly adjacent to an outer surface of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025, extending around at least a portion of the periphery of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025. The filter support body member 3127 can be configured to receive at least a portion of the cylindrically-shaped filter component 3005 and further configured to at least partially secure the filter component 3005 relative to the sample distribution ring member 3023, such that the filter component 3005 is disposed at least substantially adjacent to the outer surface of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025.

[0374]

[0411] As described herein, the sample distribution ring member 3023 of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 can be configured to promote at least substantially uniform annular distribution of the air sample to the filter component 3005 positioned at least substantially adjacent thereto. As described herein, in various embodiments, the filter component 3005 can include a wetted configuration, in which the filter component 3005 can absorb at least a portion of the buffer solution released from one or more capsule components, as described in detail herein. In some embodiments, a predetermined volume of buffer solution is disposed throughout an interior portion of the filter component 3005 (e.g., a side of the filter component 3005 near the sample distribution ring member) and / or an exterior portion of the filter component 3005 (e.g., a side of the filter component 3005 opposite the interior portion near the vent channel).

[0375]

[0412] 31A and 31B, the sample distribution ring sidewall 3025 can include a plurality of holes 3030. For example, after a user provides a sample to the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 (e.g., by blowing into the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020), the sample (e.g., exhaled breath) can form one or more bubbles in the buffer solution (e.g., as the sample flows through one or more outlets 3031). In some embodiments, upon receiving the sample from adjacent holes of the plurality of holes 3030, the filter component 3005 can be configured such that bubbles form in and / or migrate to the predetermined volume of solution and capture the sample (e.g., including one or more aerosols present in the sample). For example, after a user provides a sample to the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 (e.g., by blowing into the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020), the sample (e.g., exhaled breath) can flow through one or more outlets 3031 in the valve support ring member 3024 and enter the open ring 3019. The sample can further flow through a plurality of holes 3030 in the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 and form one or more bubbles.

[0376]

[0413] In some embodiments, one or more aerosols in the sample may be disposed within bubbles that engage with the solution within the filter element 3005. For example, the filter element 3005 may be configured to allow bubbles therein to flow (e.g., ascend) vertically through an interior portion of the body of the filter element 3005, while also being configured to capture one or more aerosols present within the bubbles within the filter element. In some embodiments, the filter element 3005 may destroy bubbles that exceed a size threshold, thereby reducing the likelihood that aerosol droplets can pass through the filter element 3005. In some embodiments, the filter element 3005 may be configured to increase the surface-to-volume ratio of bubbles disposed therein. Thus, in such an exemplary situation, the filter element 3005 may be configured to increase the mass transfer rate associated with the aerosols present within the bubbles, such that the aerosols may be separated from the bubbles and captured within a predetermined volume of liquid present within the filter element. As described herein, the buffer solution distributed throughout the filter element 3005 can cause the captured aerosol to be at least substantially retained in a sample liquid that contains at least a portion of the biological attributes of the aerosol as originally received.

[0377]

[0414] In various embodiments, the sample distribution ring member 3023 can include one or more sample distribution members configured to promote at least substantially uniform annular distribution of the sample throughout the filter element 3005. For example, an exemplary sample distribution ring member can include one or more holes 3030 extending through the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 (e.g., between the inner and outer surfaces of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025) and fluidly connecting the open ring 3019 to the filter element 3005. More specifically, the one or more holes 3030 extending through the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can provide a fluid connection between the open ring 3019 and the filter element 3005, such that at least a portion of the sample present in the open ring 3019 can flow through an orifice in the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 and engage a portion of the receiving surface of the filter element 3005 positioned directly adjacent to the orifice. By way of example, in various embodiments, the one or more holes 3030 can provide only a fluid connection between the sample distribution ring member 3023 and the adjacent filter element 3005, such that at least substantially all of the sample provided to the sample distribution ring member 3023 (e.g., sample received in the open ring 3019) can be dispensed from the sample distribution ring member 3023 and delivered to the filter element 3005 via the one or more holes 3030.

[0378]

[0415] 30-31B, in various embodiments, the one or more orifices of the exemplary sample distribution ring member 3023 can include multiple orifices embodied as multiple holes 3030 distributed throughout the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025. By way of non-limiting example, in various embodiments, the multiple holes 3030 can include at least substantially between 8 and 40 holes (e.g., between 16 and 24 holes) distributed throughout the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025.

[0379]

[0416] In various embodiments, one or more of the holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can embody a physical configuration that is either the same as or different from the physical configuration of one or more other holes of the plurality of holes 3030. For example, the physical configuration of a hole as described herein can be defined at least in part by the surface area, shape, angular orientation in which the hole extends through the thickness of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 (e.g., a linear orientation perpendicular to the central axis of the device body 3026 and / or an orientation defining an angle away from a horizontal plane, etc.). In various embodiments, the surface area of ​​one or more holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can be configured to enable a particular mass flow rate through the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025. For example, in various embodiments, the cumulative surface area of ​​each of the plurality of holes 3030 distributed around the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can comprise at least substantially between 20% and 100% (e.g., between 50% and 100%) of the total surface area of ​​the sample inlet portion (e.g., central bore 3011) of the aerosol collection device 3020. Further, by way of example, in various embodiments, the cumulative surface area of ​​each of the plurality of holes 3030 distributed around the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can be at least substantially equal to the surface area of ​​the central bore 3011 of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020. In various embodiments, the cumulative surface area of ​​one or more holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can be configured to allow a particular pressure to be dropped across the exemplary sample distribution ring member 3023. In various embodiments, one or more of the holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can include a uniform cross-sectional area throughout the thickness of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 (e.g., between the inner and outer surfaces of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025). Furthermore, in various embodiments, one or more of the holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can include a variable cross-sectional area at one or more locations along the thickness of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025.

[0380]

[0417] Further, in various embodiments, one or more of the holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can include a uniform cross-sectional area throughout the thickness of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 (e.g., between the inner and outer surfaces of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025). Further, in various embodiments, one or more of the holes of the plurality of holes 3030 can include a variable cross-sectional area at one or more locations along the thickness of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025.

[0381]

[0418] In various embodiments, the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can be defined at least in part by the sidewall length as measured in a direction parallel to the central axis of the device body 3026. For example, one or more of the plurality of holes 3030 can be positioned along the length of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 at a location defined at least in part by the vertical distance between each hole and the top surface of the adjacent filter element 3005. For example, the position of a hole of the plurality of holes 3030 relative to the length of the sample distribution ring member sidewall 3025 can define the vertical distance along which sample dispensed through a hole into the adjacent filter element 3005 must travel within the body of the filter element to reach the upper boundary of the filter element. In various embodiments, one or more of the plurality of holes 3030 disposed in the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 can be positioned along the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 such that the distance between the one or more holes and the top surface of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025, as measured vertically, can be at least substantially between 50% and 100% (e.g., between 50% and 75%) of the total length of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025. That is, for example, in various embodiments, one or more of the plurality of holes 3030 disposed in the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 can be positioned around the lower half of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 (e.g., the half of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025 positioned relatively close to the bottom surface of the device body 3026, as measured vertically along the length of the sample distribution ring member side wall 3025).

[0382]

[0419] In various embodiments, the position of one or more of the plurality of holes relative to the total length of the sample distribution ring member side wall portion 3025 and / or filter component 3005 can be either the same as or different from the position of one or more other holes of the plurality of holes 3030.

[0383]

[0420] As described in more detail herein, in some embodiments, the aerosol may be captured in the filter component 3005, and air may be removed from the aerosol through the filter component 3005 in the form of bubbles. The air separated from the aerosol may then enter the breath analyzer chamber 3021. Referring to the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 shown in FIG. 30 , the breath analyzer chamber 3021 may be positioned above the filter component 3005, thus allowing air to escape from the filter component 3005 into the breath analyzer chamber 3021.

[0384]

[0421] As further described herein, in some embodiments, the aerosol-depleted predetermined volume of air in the breath analyzer chamber 3021 may be further passed through one or more vent channels 3027 configured to dispense at least a portion of the predetermined volume of air in the aerosol collection device 3020 into the ambient environment. For example, the one or more vent channels 3027 may include one or more orifices positioned about the external breath analyzer surface of the upper plunger component 3007 and may be configured to provide fluid communication between the breath analyzer chamber 3021 and the ambient environment such that the aerosol-depleted predetermined volume of air in the breath analyzer chamber 3021 may be dispensed into the ambient environment via the one or more orifices in the upper plunger component 3007.

[0385]

[0422] In various embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device can include a device body 3026 that includes an aerosol collection device housing configured to store various components of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 within an interior portion of the housing. As described herein, the aerosol collection device 3020 can be configured to accept an air sample (e.g., from a sample transfer adapter) through the upper plunger component 3007 and deliver the accepted sample along an air flow path or flow channel throughout various components (e.g., filter component 3005 and / or sample distribution ring 3023, etc.) disposed within the housing of the device body 3026 to capture at least a portion of the aerosol present in the sample upon acceptance into the filter component 3005. In various embodiments, the aerosol collection device 3020 can be configured to accept a single air sample provided continuously to the aerosol collection device 3020 over a predetermined length of time or multiple air samples provided sequentially to the aerosol collection device 3020 over time. In such an exemplary situation, an air sample provided to the aerosol collection device 3020 over time may be repeatedly passed through a filter component 3005 housed within the device body 3226, as described herein, such that aerosols captured by the filter component 3005 over time may accumulate within the filter component 3005. In such an exemplary configuration, the accumulated aerosols disposed within the filter component may affect one or more physical properties of the filter component 3005 and / or a volume of buffer solution present within the filter component 3005.For example, in various embodiments, one or more physical attributes, such as weight, volume, particle concentration, and / or color, of the filter element 3005 and / or of the volume of buffer solution therein may change over time as the amount of aerosol captured within the wetted filter element 3005 (e.g., the filter element 3005 having the volume of buffer solution disposed therein) increases.

[0386]

[0423] In various embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 3020 can include means for monitoring one or more characteristics of the wetted filter component 3005 disposed within the device body 3226 over time without interrupting operation of the aerosol collection device 3220. Referring now to FIG. 32A , a portion of an exemplary perspective cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3220 is depicted. As shown, various components of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3220 are disposed within the housing of the device body 3226, such as, for example, the central passage 3217B, the valve support ring member 3224, the sample distribution ring member 3223, and the filter component 3205 configured according to various embodiments described herein. By way of example, the housing (e.g., the reservoir component) of the device body 3226 can include an observation orifice 3240 positioned around at least a portion of the exterior surface of the device body 3226 and extending through a thickness of the device body 3226. In various embodiments, the observation orifice 3240 can facilitate a line of sight between a vantage point in the ambient environment external to the device body 3226 and one or more aerosol collection device 3220 components housed within the device body 3226. For example, the observation orifice 3240 can be provided in a surface positioned at least substantially adjacent to one or more aerosol collection device 3220 components within the device body 3226 (for which visibility from an external vantage point is desired). By way of example, the exemplary aerosol collection device 3220 depicted in FIGS. 32A and 32B can include an observation orifice 3240 configured to provide a line of sight from a remote vantage point in the ambient environment to at least a portion of the filter component 3205 positioned adjacent the observation orifice 3240.For example, the exemplary observation orifice 3240 can embody a viewing window configured to allow a user to view at least a portion of the filter component 3205 disposed within the housing of the device body 3226 without requiring disassembly of the aerosol collection device 3220 and / or interruption of operation of the aerosol collection device 3220. In various embodiments, the observation orifice 3240 can include at least one transparent member (e.g., clear glass and / or clear plastic, etc.) that covers a surface area of ​​the observation orifice 3240 and is configured to facilitate visibility of the filter component 3205 while preventing undue air leakage through the observation orifice 3240 and / or contamination of the aerosol collection device 3220. Additionally, in various embodiments, at least one transparent member of the observation orifice 3240 can be configured to visually magnify at least a portion of one or more internal breath analyzer components (e.g., the filter component 3205) toward which the observation orifice 3240 is oriented.

[0387]

[0424] As described in more detail herein, the aerosol collection device can be configured to allow one or more samples of air containing a plurality of aerosols to pass through the wetted filter element 3205, the wetted filter element 3205 being configured to capture at least a portion of the aerosols in the sample passing therethrough, such that the captured aerosols become embedded within the thickness of the filter element 3205. Over time, the captured aerosols can accumulate within the thickness of the filter element 3205, allowing the aerosols to react with a buffer solution dispersed throughout the wetted filter element 3205. In various embodiments, the accumulated aerosols that become trapped within the filter element 3205 thickness can cause the physical appearance of the filter element 3205 to change, at least in part, due to, for example, the presence or increased concentration of aerosols present within the filter element 3205 and / or a chemical reaction between one or more of the accumulated aerosols and the buffer solution, etc. For example, in such an exemplary situation, one or more aspects of the physical appearance of the filter component 3205 (e.g., color, transparency, texture, and / or uniformity, etc.) may undergo a noticeable change, which may be visible to a user observing the filter component through the observation orifice 3240.

[0388]

[0425] In various embodiments, the exemplary observation orifices can include any applicable shape or form configured to provide a user with visibility to one or more corresponding breath analyzer components within the device body 3226. Further, in various embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 32C , the exemplary aerosol collection device 3220 can include multiple observation orifices 3240A, 3240B. For example, in various embodiments, each of the multiple observation orifices 3240A, 3240B can be configured to provide an individual line of sight to a respective breath analyzer component (e.g., the filter component 3205 and the breath analyzer chamber, respectively) within the housing / container component of the device body 3226. Further, in various embodiments, each of the multiple observation orifices 3240A, 3240B can be configured to provide an individual line of sight to a respective portion of the same breath analyzer component (e.g., the first portion of the filter component 3205 and the second portion of the filter component 3205, respectively) within the housing / container component of the device body 3226. For example, as shown in FIG. 32C, a first observation orifice 3240A can provide a line of sight from outside the housing / container component / device body portion of the aerosol collection device 3220 to a first portion of the filter component 3205, while a second observation orifice 3240B can provide a separate line of sight from outside the housing / container component of the aerosol collection device 3220 to a second portion of the filter component 3205.

[0389]

[0426] In various embodiments, after a sample is collected by the aerosol collection device 3220, the aerosol collection device 3220 can be configured to facilitate an extraction operation, wherein at least a portion of the sample liquid can be extracted from the device body 3226. For example, as described in further detail herein, the sample liquid can be extracted from the aerosol collection device 3220 by an exemplary sample extraction device (such as, but not limited to, an extraction cartridge). In various embodiments, the exemplary extraction cartridge can be removably attached to a portion of the device body or container component (e.g., an extraction opening disposed around a bottom portion of the device body 3226) such that the extraction cartridge can be placed in fluid communication with the interior bottom portion of the device body 3226. The sample liquid can be transferred from the device body 3226 to the extraction cartridge, which is configured to store the extracted volume of sample liquid therein for subsequent analytical and / or experimental operations.

[0390]

[0427] 33A-33B, a portion of an exemplary perspective view of an exemplary aerosol collection device 3320 is shown.

[0391]

[0428] In various embodiments, the exemplary aerosol collection device 3320 can include a sample liquid extraction outlet 27 positioned in a central portion of the bottom surface of the device body 3326. For example, in various embodiments, the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 can include a tubular channel arranged in an at least substantially coaxial configuration with respect to the central axis of the device body 3326. Further, in various embodiments, at least a portion of the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 can protrude outward from the bottom surface of the device body 3326, away from the device body. In various embodiments, the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 can include an internal volume of at least substantially between 0.05 mL and 0.3 mL (e.g., between 0.1 mL and 0.2 mL). In various embodiments, the device body 3326 of the exemplary aerosol collection device 3320 can be configured to accommodate a sample liquid volume of at least substantially between 2 mL and 10 mL (e.g., between 3 mL and 4 mL).

[0392]

[0429] As shown, in various embodiments, the aerosol collection device 3320 can further include a locking component 28, which is configured to be removably secured to the sample liquid extraction outlet 27. For example, the locking component 28 can be configured to at least substantially plug the tubular channel of the sample liquid extraction outlet 27, preventing sample liquid from flowing through the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 when the locking component 28 is attached to the sample liquid extraction outlet 27. By way of example, the locking component 28 can include a luer lock. In some embodiments, the locking component 28 can be attached to the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 via various means, including, but not limited to, mechanical means (e.g., the locking component 28 can be threaded onto the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 via threads provided around the outer surface of the sample liquid extraction outlet 27).

[0393]

[0430] As described herein, the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 can embody a conduit member configured to facilitate delivery of sample liquid disposed within the interior portion of the device body 3326 to an exemplary extraction cartridge fluidically and / or mechanically connected to the device body 3326. Accordingly, in various embodiments, the aerosol collection device 3320 can include a seal member (e.g., a groove component, as described herein) provided along a portion of the bottom surface of the interior portion of the device body 3326 to fluidly isolate the interior portion of the device body from the sample liquid extraction outlet 27. Such an exemplary configuration can prevent sample liquid (compressed from a filter component and provided within the bottom portion of the device body 3326, as described herein) from passing through the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 without first puncturing the seal member and opening an area through which the sample liquid can flow.

[0394]

[0431] 34A-34B, exemplary perspective and cross-sectional views of an exemplary extraction cartridge 10 are shown.

[0395]

[0432] In various embodiments, the exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can include a cartridge body 13 that defines at least a portion of the exterior of the extraction cartridge. As shown, in various embodiments, the cartridge body 13 can include a substantially cylindrical exterior sidewall and an interior body chamber 14, with the interior body chamber 14 defined by a hollow interior portion of the cylindrical sidewall. For example, the interior body chamber 14 of the cartridge body 13 can include a cylindrical chamber having an outer periphery defined at least in part by the interior surface of the cylindrical sidewall of the cartridge body 13. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 13 can be configured to receive a predetermined volume of fluid (e.g., sample liquid extracted from an aerosol collection device) into the interior body chamber 14 via a sample liquid inlet 11, as described in further detail herein.

[0396]

[0433] In various embodiments, the exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can include an extraction plunger 15 disposed within the internal body chamber 14 of the cartridge body 13. In various embodiments, the extraction plunger 15 can embody a piston component having a predetermined range of motion within the internal body chamber 14, which is defined at least in part by the internal surface of the cylindrical sidewall of the cartridge body 13. For example, the outer periphery of the face of the extraction plunger 15 can physically engage the internal surface of the cylindrical sidewall of the cartridge body 13 to define an airtight seal between the face of the extraction plunger 15 and the cylindrical sidewall of the cartridge body. For example, in such an exemplary situation, a localized pressure and volume can be defined within the active portion of the internal body chamber 14 extending between the sample liquid inlet 11 and the face of the extraction plunger 15. In various embodiments, the extraction cartridge 10 can be configured such that as the extraction plunger 15 moves axially along the internal body chamber 14 (e.g., along the central axis of the cylindrical sidewall of the cartridge body 13), one or more local conditions (e.g., local pressure and / or volumetric capacity) within the active portion of the internal body chamber 14 (e.g., defined between the sample liquid inlet portion 11 and the face of the extraction plunger 15) can change based at least in part on the position of the extraction plunger 15 within the internal body chamber 14. By way of example, in various embodiments, the exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can embody a syringe component.

[0397]

[0434] In various embodiments, the extraction cartridge 10 can include a cartridge body end cap 17 that is removably secured to the distal end of the cylindrical cartridge body 13. For example, the cartridge body end cap 17 can be configured to at least partially limit the range of motion of the extraction plunger 15, such that the extraction plunger 15 is retained within the internal body chamber 14 of the cartridge body 13. Additionally, in various embodiments, the cartridge body end cap 17 can include a guide rod aperture 18 that extends therethrough coaxially with respect to the central axis of the internal body chamber 14. For example, in various embodiments, an exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can include a guide rod that is attached to the extraction plunger 15 at one end and extends through the guide rod aperture 18 at the other end. In such an exemplary situation, a user can at least partially control the positioning of extraction plunger 15 within internal body chamber 14 by pushing and / or pulling guide rod 14 into and / or out of guide rod aperture 18. As further shown in FIG. 34A , cartridge body 13 can include observation orifice 16, which extends through the cylindrical sidewall of cartridge body 13 and defines a line of sight to a distal portion of internal body chamber 14. For example, in various embodiments, observation orifice 16 can be configured to define a line of sight to extraction plunger 15, allowing a user to verify the position of extraction plunger 15 within internal body chamber 14.

[0398]

[0435] 35-36, a portion of an exemplary perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary extraction cartridge 10 and an exemplary aerosol collection device 20 is shown.

[0399]

[0436] As described herein, the sample liquid inlet portion 11 can embody a conduit member 12 through which a predetermined volume of sample liquid extracted from the device body portion 26 can be received by the extraction cartridge 10 and delivered into the interior body portion chamber 14. As shown, the sample liquid inlet portion 11 can include one or more attachment means for mechanically attaching the sample liquid inlet portion 11 to a sample liquid extraction outlet portion 27 of the device body portion 26, as described herein. In such an exemplary configuration, the extraction cartridge 10 can be mechanically secured and fluidly connected to the device body portion 26 of the aerosol collection device 20.

[0400]

[0437] In various embodiments, the extraction cartridge 10 may include one or more puncture members that extend at least partially into the sample liquid extraction outlet portion 27 of the device body portion 26 and are configured to puncture a seal member extending across the sample liquid extraction outlet portion 27 to create an opening through which sample liquid disposed within the device body portion 26 can flow to the sample liquid extraction outlet portion 27.

[0401]

[0438] As described herein, an exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can embody a syringe component, such that the extraction cartridge 10 is configured to attach to the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 of the aerosol collection device 20 and is configured to extract a predetermined volume of sample liquid disposed within the device body 26 by pulling the extraction plunger 15 of the extraction cartridge 10 away from the sample liquid inlet 11 to increase the volumetric capacity within the active portion of the internal body chamber 14 and correspondingly decrease the local pressure therein. In such an exemplary configuration, the local pressure within the active portion of the internal body chamber 14 can drop below the corresponding pressure within the device body 26, such that a flow of sample liquid within the device body 26 can be initiated and a total extraction of the sample liquid from the aerosol collection device 20 can be performed. As described, in an exemplary situation where the pressure within the device body 26 is higher than the local pressure within the active volume of the internal body chamber fluidly connected thereto, a predetermined volume of sample liquid within the device body 26 can be dispensed (e.g., extracted) through the sample liquid extraction outlet 27 of the aerosol collection device 20 into the extraction cartridge 10 attached thereto.

[0402]

[0439] In various embodiments, the exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can indicate when sample liquid extracted from the aerosol collection device 20 occupies at least substantially the entire active volume of the internal body chamber 14, preventing further sample liquid from being extracted by the extraction cartridge 10. For example, the exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can include one or more indicators configured to generate a visual and / or audible indication (e.g., an LED light indicator and / or an alarm notification, etc.) that the extraction cartridge 10 has reached its operating volume capacity. In such an exemplary situation, the sample liquid inlet portion 11 of the exemplary extraction cartridge 10 can be disengaged from the sample liquid extraction outlet portion 27 of the aerosol collection device 20. Furthermore, in various embodiments in which the extraction cartridge receives sample liquid extracted from the aerosol collection device 20, the attachment means described with respect to the sample liquid inlet portion 11 can be configured to facilitate attachment of a cartridge cap member 19 to the sample liquid inlet portion 11 to seal the extracted sample liquid within the internal body chamber 14 of the extraction cartridge 10. In some embodiments, the extracted sample liquid may contain biological content that can be used for further analysis and downstream diagnostics.

[0403]

[0440] While this specification contains details of many specific implementations, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any disclosure or the scope of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of a particular disclosure. Also, certain features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments, either separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, while features may be described above as acting in a particular combination and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may in some cases be practiced in combination, and the claimed combination may relate to subcombinations or variations of the subcombination.

[0404]

[0441] Similarly, while operations are shown in the figures in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the particular or sequential order shown, or that all of the illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain situations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the embodiments described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the program components and systems described may generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0405]

[0442] Thus, specific embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. In addition, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular order shown or sequential order to achieve desirable results. In certain implementations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous.

[0406]

[0443] It is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the particular examples disclosed and that modifications and other examples are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation, unless otherwise indicated. [Explanation of symbols]

[0407] 10 Extraction Cartridges 11 Sample liquid inlet 13 Cartridge body 14. Inner body chamber 15 Extraction Plunger 16 Observation Orifice 17 Cartridge body end cap 18 Guide Rod Aperture 19 Cartridge cap member 20 Aerosol Collection Device 26 Device body 27 Sample liquid extraction outlet 28 Locking Components 100 Aerosol Collection Device 102 Capsule Components 103 Buffer solution 104 Capsule extraction body 105 Filter Components 106 Container components 107 Upper plunger component 108 O-ring 109 Leg part 110A Ridge member 110B Ridge member 110C Ridge member 110D Ridge member 111 Orifice 112 Plunger body member 113 Opening 114 Filter components 115 Sample Transfer Adapter 116 Lower plunger component 117A Central aisle 117B Central aisle 118 Valve Components 119 Ring opening 120 Hole 121 Breath Analyzer Chamber 122 Groove component 123 Bent Bluff Ring Member 124 Tube Components 126 Device body 127 Sample distribution ring member 128 Valve support ring member 200 Container components 201 Medial lateral surface 202 Valve support ring member 203 Inner bottom surface 204 Sample distribution ring member 205 Support Beam 206 Filter support body member 207 Filter support body member 208 Capsule extraction body part member 210 Horizontal ridge members 212 Vertical ridge members 300 Tube Components 301 Pipe members 302 Upper part 303 Bent Bluff Ring Member 304 Middle part 305 Bottom part 307 Opening 309 Flow Channel 400 Lower Plunger Component 402 Plunger ring member 403 Lateral lateral surface 404 Plunger Support Wing 405 Medial lateral surface 406 Lateral part 408 Bottom part 410 plunger leg component 500 Upper Plunger Component 501 Plunger head member 503 Plunger body member 505 Central ring part 507 Middle ring part 509 Leg part 511 Vent Channel 513 Ring groove part 515 O-ring groove 516 First End 517 Ring convex part 518 Second End 521 Bridge Connector 522 Opening 523 First End 525 Upper surface 527 Lateral surface 528 central bore 529 Aperture 531 O-ring 602 Container components 604 Sample distribution ring member 605 Support Beam 606 Valve support ring member 608 Valve Components 610 Filter support body member 612 Capsule extraction body part member 616 Filter Components 618 Tube Components 620 notch 622 Notch 623 Pipe members 624 Capsule Components 630 first vertical ridge member 632 Second vertical ridge member 634 Lower Plunger Component 640 Upper Plunger Component 641 Inner surface 642 Middle part 644 Pipe members 646 recessed part 650 Cap Components 652 O-ring 660 Assembled aerosol collection device 701 Device body 703 Upper Plunger Component 705 Sample Transfer Adapter 707 Tube Components 709 Capsule Components 713 Filter Components 715 Cap Components 716 Buffer 717 Extraction Cartridge 719 Locking Components 730 Container components 733 Lower Plunger Component 777 Arrow 800 Aerosol Collection Device 810 Mask components 811 Facial interface material 812 Mask outer shell 813 Mask inner cavity 814 sampling channels 815 Mask ventilation surface 816 Sampling conduit 818 Sample outlet 820 Device body 1215 Mask discharge surface 1226 External Surface 1230 Ventilation opening 1300 Aerosol Collection Device 1310 Sampling Tunnel 1311 Sample inlet 1312 Sampling tunnel main body 1315 Sampling Tunnel Ventilation Surface 1320 Device body 1326 External Surface 1330 Adapter ventilation opening 1400 Aerosol Collection Device 1410 Sampling Hood 1411 Sample inlet 1412 Food Cover 1413 Hood inner cavity 1414 sampling channels 1415 Hood cover seal surface 1416 Sampling channel outlet 1417 Sampling hood outlet 1420 Device body 1426 External Surface 1500 Capsule Components 1501 Holder parts 1503 Cap member 1505 Bottom surface 1507 Handle part 1509 Main body part 1511 Opening 1602 Capsule extraction body part member 1604 Upper surface 1606 Protrusion 1701 Capsule components 1703 Capsule extraction body part member 1705 Protrusion 1707 Cap member 1709 Air Gap 1711 Container components 1713 Medial lateral surface 1715 First vertical ridge member 1717 Second vertical ridge member 1719 Handle part 1721 Horizontal ridge member 1801 Capsule Components 1803 Upper plunger component 1805 Capsule extraction body part member 1807 Holder material 1809 Cap material 1811 Air Gap 1813 Protrusion 1900 Aerosol Collection Device 1901 First vertical ridge member 1902 Capsule Components 1903 Second vertical ridge member 1904 Capsule extraction body part member 1905 Capsule Components 1907 Leg section 1909 Medial lateral surface 1911 Upper Plunger Component 2000 Aerosol Collection Device 2002 Filter Components 2004 Capsule extraction body part 2006 Capsule Components 2008 Upper Plunger Component 2101 Upper plunger component 2103 Capsule components 2105 First vertical ridge member 2107 Second vertical ridge member 2109 Medial lateral surface 2111 Leg part 2202 Vertical lock ridge member 2204 Vertical stop ridge member 2206 Horizontal ridge member 2208 Medial lateral surface 2301 Leg part 2303 Upper Plunger Component 2305 Vertical Lock Ridge Member 2307 Vertical stop ridge member 2400 Aerosol Collection Device 2401 Upper Plunger Component 2403 Leg part 2405 Vertical stop ridge member 2407 Plunger Support Wing 2409 Lower Plunger Component 2501 Upper Plunger Component 2503 Tube components 2505 Pipe members 2507 Central ring part 2509 Middle ring part 2511 Gap 2513 Bent Bluff Ring Member 2515 Opening 2600 Aerosol Collection Device 2602 Upper Plunger Component 2604 Tube components 2605 Bent Bluff Ring Member 2606 Central ring part 2608 Middle ring part 2610 Plunger head member 2612 central bore 2614 Pipe members 2616 Valve components 2618 Valve support ring member 2620 Arrow 2622 Filter Components 2624 Arrow 2630 Lower Plunger Component 2631 Sealing Ridge 2700 Upper Plunger Component 2701 Opening 2703 central bore 2705 ​​Plunger head member 2707 Plunger body part 2709 Tube members 2711 Arrow 2713 Middle ring part 2715 Central ring part 2717 Aperture 2719 Opening 2721 Filter 2723 Arrow 2802 Central ring part 2804 Middle ring part 2806 Bent Bluff Ring Member 2808 Ceiling Ridge 2810 Opening 2820 Pipe members 2900 Aerosol Collection Device 2901 Lower Plunger Component 2903 Filter Components 2905 Upper Plunger Component 2907 Tube components 2909 Valve components 2911 Pipe members 2913 Central ring part 2915 Sealing Ridge 2917 Bent Bluff Ring Member 3005 Filter Components 3007 Upper Plunger Component 3011 central bore 3017A Central aisle 3017B Central aisle 3018 Valve components 3019 Ring opening 3020 Aerosol Collection Device 3021 Breath Analyzer Chamber 3023 Sample distribution ring member 3024 Valve support ring member 3025 Sample distribution ring member side wall 3026 Device body 3027 Vent Channel 3030 Hole 3031 Exit section 3050 Tube Components 3127 Filter support body part 3205 Filter Components 3217B Central aisle 3220 Aerosol Collection Device 3223 Sample distribution ring member 3224 Valve support ring member 3226 Device body 3240 Observation Orifice 3240A Observation Orifice 3240B Observation Orifice 3320 Aerosol Collection Device 3326 Device body

Claims

1. An aerosol collection device, comprising: a sample transfer adapter configured to receive a sample; a device body portion containing a filter element therein for filtering the sample, the device body portion being connected to the sample transfer adapter and defining a flow channel for guiding the sample to the filter element; At least one capsule component containing a buffer; Including, the at least one capsule component is positioned to be engaged and punctured during operation of the aerosol collection device to provide liquid insertion into the filter component. Aerosol collection device.

2. the device body includes a container component having a sample distribution ring; the buffer solution is contained on at least one of a first side of the filter element adjacent to the sample distribution ring or a second side of the filter element opposite the first side; The aerosol collection device of claim 1 .

3. The sample transfer adapter is a sampling tunnel. The aerosol collection device of claim 1 .

4. the sample transfer adapter is a mask component; The aerosol collection device of claim 1 .

5. The device further includes an extraction cartridge for extracting a sample liquid from within the device body. The aerosol collection device of claim 1 .

6. the device body includes a sample liquid extraction outlet; the extraction cartridge including one or more piercing members configured to extend at least partially into the sample liquid extraction outlet; The aerosol collection device of claim 5 .

7. The device main body comprises: a container component including at least one capsule extraction body member; an upper plunger component positioned above a top surface of the at least one capsule component; Including, the at least one capsule component is positioned on an upper surface of the at least one capsule extraction body member; the at least one capsule extraction body member comprises a protrusion configured to puncture the at least one capsule component containing the buffer solution; the upper plunger component is configured to release the buffer solution from the at least one capsule component to the filter component based on a force acting on the upper plunger component. The aerosol collection device of claim 1 .

8. each of the at least one capsule component includes a holder member and a cap member; The buffer solution is sealed in the holder member by the cap member.

8. The aerosol collection device of claim 7.

9. the at least one capsule extraction body member includes a protrusion positioned on the top surface of the at least one capsule extraction body member; The cap member is positioned over the protrusion.

9. The aerosol collection device of claim 8.

10. the container component includes at least two vertical ridge members disposed on an inner lateral surface of the container component; At least a portion of each of the at least one capsule component is positioned between the at least two vertical ridge members.

10. The aerosol collection device of claim 9.

11. In response to receiving a vertically downward force exerted on an upper surface of the upper plunger component, the upper plunger component is configured to transmit the vertically downward force to the at least one capsule component, causing vertical movement of the at least one capsule component.

11. The aerosol collection device of claim 10.

12. the vertical movement of the at least one capsule component causes the at least one capsule extraction body member to break the cap member of each of the at least one capsule component.

12. The aerosol collection device of claim 11.

13. After the cap member is broken, the buffer solution flows over the filter element.

13. The aerosol collection device of claim 12.

14. The container component comprises: a sample distribution ring member including a plurality of holes; a valve support ring disposed within the sample distribution ring; further comprising:

8. The aerosol collection device of claim 7.

15. the at least one capsule extraction body member is positioned radially outward from the sample distribution ring member; 15. The aerosol collection device of claim 14.

16. The aerosol collection device comprises: a tubing component secured to the sample distribution ring; a valve component supported by the valve support ring; further comprising:

15. The aerosol collection device of claim 14.

17. the filter element is interposed between the sample distribution ring member and the at least one capsule extraction body member; The aerosol collection device further includes a lower plunger component positioned above an upper surface of the filter component.

16. The aerosol collection device of claim 15.

18. the lower plunger component includes a plurality of plunger support wings; each of the plurality of plunger support wings is positioned between two capsule components; 18. The aerosol collection device of claim 17.

19. The upper plunger component is translated from a first configuration to a second configuration by a rotational force. It is designed to In the first configuration, a bottom surface of the upper plunger component is in contact with a top surface of each of the at least one capsule component; In the second configuration, the bottom surface of the upper plunger component contacts an upper surface of each of the plurality of plunger support wings.

19. The aerosol collection device of claim 18.

Images