Autonomous collection device and corresponding collection method

Abstract

The invention relates to an autonomous collection device comprising a casing (2) provided with at least one intake pipe (36) opening to the exterior of the casing, at least one discharge pipe (37) opening to the exterior of the casing (2), at least one sample collection system comprising at least one cartridge (10) and at least one fluid collector connected to the cartridge, wherein the cartridge comprises at least four connection ports, such that its fourth connection port is connected to at least one reservoir containing a cleaning product for the cartridge. The invention also relates to a corresponding collection method.

Description

[0001] AUTONOMOUS COLLECTION DEVICE AND CORRESPONDING COLLECTION METHOD

[0002] The invention relates to an autonomous collection device.

[0003] The invention also relates to a collection method implemented by means of such a device.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Environmental nucleic acid (eNA) analysis allows the monitoring of the biodiversity of a given natural environment, a technique which is non-invasive for this natural environment and associated species.

[0006] This technique is based on collecting samples to identify the different living beings that reside or have passed through this natural environment, including rare species.

[0007] These samples are then analyzed in the laboratory and compared to species reference databases.

[0008] The necessary prerequisites for this technique are therefore the referencing and development of sampling protocols.

[0009] Even though these protocols are now well established, the analysis of an ANe is relatively complex and costly to implement since it involves ordering in situ samples to be taken very regularly, only high-frequency monitoring can effectively contribute to timely decision-making anticipating the environmental and health risks of the environment in question.

[0010] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The invention aims in particular to facilitate the taking of samples in a given environment. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] To this end, according to the invention, there is provided an autonomous collection device comprising a box provided with at least one inlet pipe opening outside the box, at least one discharge pipe opening outside the box, at least one sample collection system which comprises at least one cartridge and at least one fluid collector connected to said cartridge.

[0013] According to the invention, the cartridge comprises at least four connection ports and the device comprises a first multi-way connection system, a first way of which is connected to a first connection port of the cartridge, a second way of which is connected to a second connection port of the cartridge and a third way of which is connected to the fluid collector as well as to the inlet pipe, the cartridge being furthermore shaped so that its third connection port is connected to the outlet pipe and so that its fourth connection port is connected to at least one reservoir of a cartridge cleaning product.

[0014] Thus, the device proves to be autonomous in the sense that it can operate without the intervention of an operator once installed in a given environment.

[0015] Advantageously, the cartridge allows the collection of at least one sample and can then be cleaned using the cleaning product in order to be ready to collect a new sample. The invention thus makes it possible to reuse the cartridge from one sample collection to another.

[0016] This greatly limits the manipulations to be carried out by human intervention.

[0017] This makes it easier to take samples in a given environment.

[0018] Advantageously, the invention can be used in any environment, whether natural or industrial.

[0019] Moreover, the invention is relatively inexpensive to produce.

[0020] Optionally, the cartridge is a hollow fiber cartridge.

[0021] Optionally, the third way is connected to the fluid manifold as well as to the intake pipe via a second multi-way connection system.

[0022] Optionally, the second multi-way connection system comprises a first way connected to the third way of the first multi-way connection system, a second way is connected to the inlet pipe and a third way is connected to the fluid collector.

[0023] Optionally, the device includes a waste collection tank.

[0024] Optionally, the waste collection tank is connected to the second multi-way connection system.

[0025] Optionally, the device comprises a third multi-way connection system, a first way of which is connected to the third way of the second multi-way connection system, a second way of which is connected to the fluid collector and a third way of which is connected to the waste recovery tank (25). Optionally, the device comprises at least two reservoirs of cartridge cleaning products, the two reservoirs being connected to the fourth connection port of the cartridge.

[0026] Optionally, one of the two tanks comprises a basic cleaning product and the other of the tanks comprises an acidic cleaning product, the average pH of said two cleaning products being equal to 7.

[0027] Optionally, the device comprises at least one container of demineralized water, the container being connected to the fourth connection port of the cartridge.

[0028] Optionally, the device comprises at least one reserve of at least one lysis product, the reserve being connected to the fourth connection port of the cartridge.

[0029] Optionally, the device comprises at least one pumping system for circulating one or more fluids through the cartridge in at least two directions of circulation between its different connection ports.

[0030] Optionally, the pumping system includes a peristaltic pump.

[0031] Optionally, the device includes several fluid collectors connected to the third channel of the first distribution system.

[0032] The invention relates to a collection method implemented in a device such as the aforementioned, the collector recovering a liquid lysate at the end of the collection.

[0033] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from reading the following description. This description presents various particular and non-limiting embodiments of the invention.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Reference will be made to the attached drawings, including:

[0035] [Fig. 1] is a perspective view of an autonomous collection device according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0036] [Fig. 2] is a view identical to that of figure 1, the box of the device being however open;

[0037] [Fig. 3] is an enlarged view of a portion of the device shown in Fig. 1;

[0038] [Fig. 4a] schematically illustrates a first sampling phase of a sample collection step by the device shown in Figure 1;

[0039] [Fig. 4b] schematically illustrates a second elution phase of the sample collection step by the device shown in Figure 1;

[0040] [Fig. 4c] schematically illustrates a first step in washing a cartridge of the device shown in Figure 1;

[0041] [Fig. 4d] schematically illustrates a second step of washing the cartridge of the device shown in Figure 1;

[0042] [Fig. 4e] schematically illustrates a step of rinsing the cartridge of the device shown in Figure 1;

[0043] [Fig. 5a] schematically illustrates a first sampling phase of a sample collection step by a collection device according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0044] [Fig. 5b] schematically illustrates a second pre-elution phase of the sample collection step by the device shown in part in Figure 5a; [Fig. 5c] schematically illustrates a third lysis phase of the sample collection step by the device shown in part in Figure 5a;

[0045] [Fig. 5d] schematically illustrates a fourth step of elution of a sample by the device partly represented in Figure 5a;

[0046] [Fig. 5e] schematically illustrates a first step of washing the cartridge of the device shown in part in Figure 5a;

[0047] [Fig. 5f] schematically illustrates a second step of washing the cartridge of the device shown in part in Figure 5a;

[0048] [Fig. 5g] schematically illustrates a step of rinsing the cartridge of the device shown in part in Figure 5a;

[0049] [Fig. 6] is a longitudinal sectional view of the cartridge of the device shown in Figure 1.

[0050] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0051] With reference to figures 1 to 4a and 6, an autonomous collection device 1 according to a first embodiment will now be described.

[0052] The device 1 comprises a box 2. The box 2 has a bottom from which one or more sides extend, jointly forming a chest open at the top. The box 2 also has a cover 3 capable of closing the chest temporarily. The cover 3 is, for example, pivotally mounted on the chest or the cover 3 can be secured to the chest temporarily by clips, hooks or any other attachment member. The cover 3 is optionally provided with a handle 4 for its manipulation. Preferably, the box 2 comprises at least one handle 5 for the manipulation of the device 1. The handle 5 is, for example, arranged in the box 2 between a retracted position and an extended position in which it can be used by the operator to manipulate the box 2. The handle 5 is, for example, telescopic.

[0053] The box 2 is preferably mounted on casters. In this way, it is possible for an operator to roll the box 2 (using the handle 5) rather than lifting it.

[0054] Box 2 is for example shaped like a suitcase.

[0055] The box 2 also comprises at least one intake pipe 36 opening outside the box 2 and at least one discharge pipe 37 opening outside the box 2.

[0056] The box 2 also includes tanks 30, 31, a container 32 and a reserve 34 which will be described later.

[0057] In addition, the device 1 contains at least one power supply system for the device 1. The power supply system is for example arranged in the box 2. The power supply system comprises for example a battery 6. In this way, the device 1 can be recharged when it is returned to the laboratory for analysis before leaving for a new measurement session. For this purpose, the box 2 comprises a socket for its mains power supply and / or the battery 6 is removable so that it can be removed from the box 2 during its recharging. The battery 6 is for example a Lithium / ion battery. Furthermore, the device 1 comprises at least one control system 7 for the device 1. The control system 7 is for example arranged in the box 2. The control system 7 comprises for example at least one calculator, a microcomputer, etc.

[0058] Preferably, the device 1 comprises a wireless communication interface 8 with the outside. Said communication interface 8 is arranged in the box 2. For example, said communication interface 8 is a Wi-Fi communication interface. For example, said communication interface 8 is integrated into the control system 7. Said communication interface 8 thus allows the device 1 to be able to communicate with the outside without having to act directly on the box 2.

[0059] Preferably, the device 1 comprises at least one human / machine interface 9. Preferably, said human / machine interface 9 is arranged in the box 2. Preferably, the human / machine interface 9 is configured so as to allow an operator to be able to act on the device 1 by transmitting his orders for example to the control system 7. The human / machine interface 9 is for example a touch screen.

[0060] An operator can therefore interact with the device 1 either via this interface or via the communication interface 8.

[0061] Furthermore, the device 1 comprises at least one sample collection system. Said system is here arranged in the box 2.

[0062] The collection system comprises a cartridge 10 which is preferably a hollow fiber cartridge. As more visible in Figure 6, the cartridge 10 is here generally shaped as a cylinder extending rectilinearly in a direction X.

[0063] The cartridge 10 thus comprises a body 11 in which a network of hollow fibers 12 is arranged, the body 11 being extended on either side (in the direction X) by two caps 13 closing said body 11. The fibers extend parallel to each other and to the direction X.

[0064] Cartridge 10 also has four connection ports.

[0065] Typically, a first connection port 14 passes through a first of the caps 13 to open into the body 11, a second connection port 15 passes through a second of the caps 13 to open into the body 11. The first port 14 and the second port 15 extend here parallel to the fibers of the fiber network 12. The first port 14 and the second port 15 thus open axially into the cartridge 10. The first port 14 and the second port 15 open here into the cartridge 10 outside the fiber network 12.

[0066] Typically, a third connection port 16 and a fourth connection port 17 open into the cartridge 10 by passing through the body 11 of the cartridge 10. The third port 16 and the fourth port 17 extend here orthogonally or transversely to the fibers of the fiber network 12. The third port 16 and the fourth port 17 thus open radially into the cartridge 10. The third port 16 and the fourth port 17 open here into the cartridge 10 at the level of the fiber network 12. The first port 14 and the third port 16 are arranged at the same first axial end of the cartridge 10 and the second port 15 and the fourth port 17 are arranged at the same second axial end of the cartridge 10.

[0067] These different connection ports will make it possible to define different directions of circulation of the fluids within the cartridge 10. In particular, these different directions of circulation are made possible by the different orientations of the different connection ports 14, 15, 16, 17.

[0068] The sample collection system further comprises at least one fluid collector 20 connected to said cartridge 10.

[0069] It turns out that the fluid collector is not connected directly to the cartridge 10 but is connected to the cartridge via at least one multi-way connection system. Said system is for example a multi-way valve such as a multi-way solenoid valve, a multi-way electric valve, etc.

[0070] In the present case, the device 1 comprises several multi-channel connection systems (which will be described below). Optionally, said connection systems are controlled by the control system 7. For example, the latter comprises control relays for said connection systems, all the relays being arranged on the same block 19, itself arranged within the box 2.

[0071] Some of the connection systems here are two-way - when the connection system is switched off, the two ways are not put into communication and the said system is then said to be closed,

[0072] - when the connection system is switched on, the two channels are in communication and the said system is then said to be open.

[0073] Furthermore, the other part of the connection systems is three-way here:

[0074] - when the connection system is switched off, a second lane is in communication only with a first lane and said system then draws a first traffic path,

[0075] - when the connection system is switched on, a second lane is in communication only with a third lane and said system thus draws a second traffic path.

[0076] The device 1 thus comprises a first three-way connection system 18 connected to the cartridge 10. More precisely, the first connection port 14 of the cartridge 10 is connected to the first way of the first connection system 18 and the third connection port of the cartridge 16 is connected to the third way of the first connection system 18. The second way of the first connection system 18 is connected to the fluid collector 20. It is also the case that the fluid collector 20 is not connected directly to the first connection system 18 but is connected via at least one second multi-way connection system 19 to the fluid collector 20. In the present case, the second way of the first connection system 19 is connected to a pumping system 21 of the device 1. The pumping system 21 is for example arranged in the box 2.The pumping system 21 is configured to circulate one or more fluids through the cartridge 10 in at least two directions of circulation between its different connection ports. The pumping system 21 can thus operate in two different directions of rotation.

[0077] The pumping system 21 comprises, for example, a pump 22 and, for example, a peristaltic pump 22.

[0078] For example, the second path of the first connection system 18 is connected to the pump 22.

[0079] Preferably, the second connection system 19 is a three-way connection system. More precisely, the first way of the second connection system 19 is connected to a strainer 23. The strainer 23 is itself arranged in the immediate vicinity of the inlet pipe 36 and preferably is arranged at least partly in the inlet pipe 36. The second way of the second connection system 19 is connected to the pump 22.

[0080] In this way, the cartridge 10 is connected to the inlet pipe 36 successively via the first connection system 18 and the pumping system 21. In the present case, the cartridge 10 is connected to the inlet pipe 36 successively via the first connection system 18, the pump 22, the second connection system 19 and the strainer 23. The third channel of the second connection system 19 is connected to the fluid collector 20. Here again, the fluid collector 20 is not connected directly to the second connection system 19 but is connected to the second connection system 19 via at least one third multi-channel connection system 24.

[0081] The third connection system 24 is a three-way connection system.

[0082] The first track of the third connection system

[0083] 24 is effectively connected to the fluid collector 20 (without an additional connection system). The second path of the third connection system 24 is connected to the third path of the second connection system 19.

[0084] In this way, the cartridge 10 is connected to the fluid collector 20 successively by means of the first connection system 18 and the pumping system 21 and the third connection system 24. In the present case, the cartridge 10 is connected to the fluid collector 20 successively by means of the first connection system 18, the pump 22, the second connection system 19 and the third connection system 24.

[0085] The device 1 also comprises a waste recovery tank 25 itself arranged in the box 2. Preferably, the third channel of the third connection system 24 is connected to the recovery tank.

[0086] 25 (without additional connection system).

[0087] We will now focus on the fourth connection port 17 of the cartridge 10. The fourth port 17 is connected to the discharge pipe 37 of the box 2. In fact, the fourth port is not directly connected to the discharge pipe 37 but is connected to said discharge pipe 37 via a fourth connection system 26. The fourth connection system 26 is here a two-way connection system. The fourth port 17 is connected to the first channel of the fourth connection system 26. The second channel is connected to the discharge pipe 37 (without an additional connection system).

[0088] We will now look at the second connection port 15 of the cartridge 10.

[0089] The second port 15 is connected to at least one reservoir of a cleaning product of the cartridge 10.

[0090] In fact, the second port 15 is not directly connected to said tank but is connected to said tank via at least a fifth multi-way connection system 27.

[0091] The fifth connection system 27 is a two-way connection system: a first way is connected to the fourth port 15 and a second way is connected to said tank.

[0092] In fact, the fifth connection system 27 is not directly connected to said tank but is connected to said tank via at least one sixth multi-way connection system 28.

[0093] The sixth connection system 28 is a three-way connection system, the second way of which is connected to the second way of the fifth connection system 27. In fact, the sixth connection system 28 is also not directly connected to said reservoir but is connected to said reservoir via at least one seventh multi-way connection system 29.

[0094] The seventh connection system 29 is a three-way connection system, the second way of which is connected to the third way of the sixth connection system 28.

[0095] The seventh connection system 29 is also well connected to the tank (without an additional connection system).

[0096] In this way, the cartridge 10 is connected to the reservoir by means of successively the fifth connection system 27, the sixth connection system 28 and the seventh connection system 29.

[0097] The reservoir is a first reservoir 30 that contains a cleaning agent that has an acidic pH. For example, the cleaning agent with an acidic pH may be an aqueous solution of hydrochloric acid (HCl or hydrogen chloride) or another cleaning agent. For example, the cleaning agent has a pH between 0 and 3.

[0098] Preferably, the device 1 comprises at least one second reservoir 31 containing a cleaning product for the cartridge 10. The second reservoir 31 preferably contains a cleaning product which has a basic pH. For example, the cleaning product with a basic pH may be an aqueous solution of caustic soda (NaOH or sodium hydroxide) or another cleaning product such as bleach. For example, the cleaning product has a pH between 11 and 14. Preferably, the cleaning product with an acidic pH contained in the first reservoir 30 and the cleaning product with a basic pH contained in the second reservoir 31 each have a pH such that the average of the pHs of said two cleaning products is equal to 7.

[0099] The second tank 31 is connected to the seventh connection system 29.

[0100] For example, the first tank 30 is connected to the first channel of the seventh connection system 29 and the second tank 31 is connected to the third channel of the seventh connection system 29.

[0101] Preferably, the device 1 also comprises a container 32 of demineralized water connected to the second port 15 of the cartridge 10.

[0102] In fact, the container 32 is not directly connected to the second port 15 but is connected to the second port 15 via at least one connection system.

[0103] Optionally, said connection system is an eighth connection system 33 which is a three-way connection system.

[0104] The eighth connection system 33 is such that its second path is connected to the first path of the sixth connection system 28.

[0105] For example, the eighth connection system 33 is such that its third way is connected to the container 32 (without an additional connection system).

[0106] In the present case, the cartridge 10 is thus connected to the container by means of successively the fifth connection system 27, the sixth connection system 28 and an eighth connection system.

[0107] 33.

[0108] Furthermore, the device 1 also comprises here a reserve 34 of at least one lysis product connected to the second port 15 of the cartridge 10.

[0109] In fact, the reserve 34 is not directly connected to the second port 15 but is connected to the second port 15 via at least one connection system and for example via the eighth connection system 33.

[0110] For example, the eighth connection system 33 is such that its first track is connected to the reserve 34 (without additional connection system).

[0111] In the present case, the cartridge 10 is thus connected to the reserve 34 by means of successively the fifth connection system 27, the sixth connection system 28 and the eighth connection system 33.

[0112] Preferably, the device 1 comprises at least one sensor 35 communicating with the control system 8 to manage the device 1. The sensor 35 is a pressure, flow rate, temperature, salinity, turbidity sensor, etc. For example, the sensor 35 is a sensor for measuring at least one flow rate. For example, the sensor 35 is a sensor for measuring at least one flow rate of the fluid discharging through the discharge pipe 37. Said sensor 35 is thus, for example, arranged on the fluid circulation path between the fourth connection system 26 and the discharge pipe 37. Said sensor 35 is, for example, a flow meter. Thus configured, the entire device 1 is contained in the box 2.

[0113] Device 1 therefore turns out to be relatively compact.

[0114] In addition, the device can be moved by a single person from point A to point B.

[0115] Device 1 is particularly ergonomic.

[0116] Furthermore, the device 1 contains all the elements necessary for its operation (power supply system 6, control system 8, fluid collector 20, cleaning product, etc.). It is therefore entirely autonomous.

[0117] We will now describe how to take a sample using the device 1 which has just been described.

[0118] In a first step, illustrated in Figure 4a, the distribution systems are configured as follows:

[0119] - the first distribution system 18 is switched off,

[0120] - the second distribution system 19 is switched off,

[0121] - the third distribution system 20 is switched off,

[0122] - the fourth distribution system 26 is switched on,

[0123] - the fifth distribution system 27 is switched off,

[0124] - the sixth distribution system 28 is switched off,

[0125] - the seventh distribution system 29 is switched off,

[0126] - the eighth distribution system 33 is switched off.

[0127] Furthermore, the pump 22 is powered to be able to operate in a first direction of rotation. The pump 22 then works in “direct mode”.

[0128] In this configuration, thanks to the pumping system 21, the device 1 pumps a fluid from a natural environment to be studied, such as, for example, water from a watercourse (river, stream, etc.) or from a body of water (lake, sea, swimming pool, body of water, etc.). The fluid notably comprises cells suspended in its aqueous environment.

[0129] The fluid enters the device 1 via the inlet pipe 36 and the strainer 23 and reaches the second distribution system 19.

[0130] The fluid is then directed towards the first distribution system 18 (the second distribution system 19 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication) and thus enters the cartridge 10 via the first port 14 (the first distribution system 18 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0131] The fluid thus passes through the cartridge 10 before exiting through the fourth port 17 (the fourth distribution system 26 being switched on, the first path and the second path of said system are in communication) to be evacuated from the device 1 via the evacuation pipe 37.

[0132] It is understood that the fluid cannot exit the cartridge 10 through the second port 15 (the fifth distribution system 27 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication) or through the third port 16 (the first distribution system 18 being switched off, the third channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication).

[0133] During this first step, the fluid thus loads the cartridge 10 with specific biological components of the environment. Only these components are retained by the fibers of the cartridge 10, the rest of the fluid returning to its natural environment. This limits the disturbances caused in the natural environment. This step also makes it possible to concentrate the number of components trapped in the cartridge 10.

[0134] After a predetermined time interval and / or a predetermined volume of fluid having passed through the cartridge 10 (determined for example by means of the sensor 35), the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the first step and start implementing a second step. For this purpose, the control system 7 switches the second distribution system 19 and the fifth distribution system 27 to their on state, the fourth distribution system 26 to its off state and commands the pump 22 to change its direction of rotation.

[0135] For example, the first stage ends after a time interval of less than 50 minutes and for example less than 30 minutes and / or the first stage ends when a volume of fluid V has passed through the cartridge, V being for example between 100 milliliters and 50 liters.

[0136] In the second step, illustrated in Figure 4b, the distribution systems are therefore configured as follows:

[0137] - the first distribution system 18 is switched off,

[0138] - the second distribution system 19 is switched on,

[0139] - the third distribution system 24 is switched off,

[0140] - the fourth distribution system 26 is switched off,

[0141] - the fifth distribution system 27 is switched on,

[0142] - the sixth distribution system 28 is switched off,

[0143] - the seventh distribution system 29 is switched off,

[0144] - the eighth distribution system 33 is switched off. Furthermore, the pump 22 is powered to be able to operate in its second direction of rotation. The pump 22 then works in “reverse mode”. Preferably, the pump 22 rotates at a lower rotation speed than during the first step.

[0145] In this configuration, thanks to the pumping system 21, the lysis product is pumped from its reserve 34 to reach the eighth distribution system 33.

[0146] The lysis product is then directed towards the sixth distribution system 28 (the eighth distribution system 33 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0147] The lysis product is then directed towards the fifth distribution system 27 (the sixth distribution system 28 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0148] The lysis product thus enters the cartridge 10 via the second port 15 (the fifth distribution system 27 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0149] The lysis product thus passes through the cartridge 10 and naturally lyses the components trapped in the cartridge 10. This step makes it possible in particular to extract the nucleic acids present in the components.

[0150] The lysate thus obtained leaves the cartridge 10 through the first port 14. The lysate is therefore a concentrated liquid solution (due to the concentration of the components in the cartridge 10 during the first step).

[0151] It is understood that the lysate cannot exit the cartridge 10 through the fourth port 17 (the fourth distribution system 26 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication) or through the third port 16 (the first distribution system 18 being switched off, the third channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication).

[0152] The lysate is therefore directed towards the second connection system 19 (the first distribution system 18 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0153] The lysate is then directed towards the third connection system 24 (the second distribution system 19 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0154] The lysate then arrives in the sample collector 20 (the third distribution system 24 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0155] The collection of a sample is therefore done automatically by device 1 alone.

[0156] The second step is thus a step of elution of the components trapped in the cartridge 10.

[0157] The components are for example proteins, viral particles, cellular fractions, nucleic acids, etc.

[0158] It should be noted that the lysate is a concentrate enriched in cellular components (due to the first step which allowed the components to be concentrated in the cartridge).

[0159] After a predetermined time interval and / or a predetermined volume of fluid has passed through the cartridge 10, the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the second step and start implementing a third step. For this purpose, the control system 7 switches the first distribution system 18, the third distribution system 24 and the sixth distribution system 28 to their on state.

[0160] Then begins cleaning of the cartridge 10 which will allow the device 1 to be reused once again.

[0161] In the third step, illustrated in Figure 4c, the distribution systems are therefore configured as follows:

[0162] - the first distribution system 18 is switched on,

[0163] - the second distribution system 19 is switched on,

[0164] - the third distribution system 24 is switched on,

[0165] - the fourth distribution system 26 is switched off,

[0166] - the fifth distribution system 27 is switched on,

[0167] - the sixth distribution system 28 is switched on,

[0168] - the seventh distribution system 29 is switched off,

[0169] - the eighth distribution system 33 is switched off.

[0170] Furthermore, the pump 22 is controlled to rotate at a higher rotation speed than during the second stage. The pump 22 optionally rotates at the same speed as during the first stage but in a reverse direction of rotation.

[0171] In this configuration, thanks to the pumping system 21, the first cleaning product (the acid pH product) is pumped from the first tank 30 to reach the seventh distribution system 29.

[0172] The first cleaning product is then directed towards the sixth distribution system 28 (the seventh distribution system 29 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0173] The first cleaning product is then directed towards the fifth distribution system 27 (the sixth distribution system 28 being switched on, the second channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0174] The first cleaning product thus enters the cartridge 10 via the second port 15 (the fifth distribution system 27 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0175] The first cleaning product thus passes through the cartridge 10 in order to wash the cartridge 10.

[0176] The first cleaning product thus obtained comes out of the cartridge 10 through the third port 16.

[0177] It is understood that the first cleaning product cannot exit the cartridge 10 through the first port 14 (the first distribution system 18 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication) or through the fourth port 17 (the first distribution system being switched off, the third channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication).

[0178] The first cleaning product is then directed towards the second connection system 19 (the first distribution system 18 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0179] The first cleaning product is then directed towards the third connection system 24 (the second distribution system 19 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0180] The first cleaning product then arrives in the tank 25 (the third distribution system 24 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0181] After a predetermined time interval and / or a predetermined volume of fluid has passed through the cartridge 10, the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the third step and start implementing a fourth step. To this end, the control system 7 switches the seventh distribution system 29 to its on state.

[0182] In the fourth step, illustrated in Figure 4d, the distribution systems are therefore configured as follows:

[0183] - the first distribution system 18 is switched on,

[0184] - the second distribution system 19 is switched on,

[0185] - the third distribution system 24 is switched on,

[0186] - the fourth distribution system 26 is switched off,

[0187] - the fifth distribution system 27 is switched on,

[0188] - the sixth distribution system 28 is switched on,

[0189] - the seventh distribution system 29 is switched on,

[0190] - the eighth distribution system 33 is switched off.

[0191] Furthermore, the pump 22 preferably rotates in the same direction and at the same speed as during the third stage.

[0192] In this configuration, thanks to the pumping system 21, the second cleaning product (the basic pH product) is pumped from the second tank 31 to reach the seventh distribution system 29.

[0193] The second cleaning product is then directed to the sixth distribution system 28 (the seventh distribution system 29 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication). The second cleaning product is then directed to the fifth distribution system 27 (the sixth distribution system 28 being switched on, the second channel and the third channel of said system are in communication).

[0194] The second cleaning product thus enters the cartridge 10 via the second port 15 (the fifth distribution system 27 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0195] The second cleaning product thus passes through the cartridge 10 in order to wash the cartridge 10.

[0196] The second cleaning product thus obtained exits the cartridge 10 through the third port 16.

[0197] It is understood that the second cleaning product cannot exit the cartridge 10 through the first port 14 (the first distribution system 18 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication) or through the fourth port 17 (the fourth distribution system 26 being switched off, the third channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication).

[0198] The second cleaning product is then directed towards the second connection system 19 (the first distribution system 18 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0199] The second cleaning product is then directed to the third connection system 24 (the second distribution system 19 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0200] The second cleaning product then arrives in the tank 25 (the third distribution system 24 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0201] Advantageously, since the two cleaning products arrive in the same tank 25, they neutralize each other in the latter due to their pH difference.

[0202] After a predetermined time interval and / or a predetermined volume of fluid has passed through the cartridge 10, the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the fourth step and start implementing a fifth step. To this end, the control system 7 switches the sixth distribution system 28 and the seventh distribution system 29 to their off state and switches the eighth distribution system 33 to its on state.

[0203] In the fifth step, illustrated in Figure 4e, the distribution systems are therefore configured as follows:

[0204] - the first distribution system 18 is switched on,

[0205] - the second distribution system 19 is switched on,

[0206] - the third distribution system 24 is switched on,

[0207] - the fourth distribution system 26 is switched off,

[0208] - the fifth distribution system 27 is switched on,

[0209] - the sixth distribution system 28 is switched off,

[0210] - the seventh distribution system 29 is switched off,

[0211] - the eighth distribution system 33 is switched on.

[0212] Furthermore, the pump 22 preferably rotates in the same direction and at the same speed as during the third stage.

[0213] In this configuration, thanks to the pumping system 21, the water is pumped from the reserve to reach the eighth distribution system 33. The water is then directed towards the sixth distribution system 28 (the eighth distribution system 33 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0214] The water is then directed towards the fifth distribution system 27 (the sixth distribution system 28 being switched off, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0215] The water thus enters the cartridge 10 via the second port 15 (the fifth distribution system 27 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0216] The water thus passes through the cartridge 10 in order to rinse the cartridge 10.

[0217] Water exits the cartridge 10 through the third port 16.

[0218] It is understood that the water cannot exit the cartridge 10 through the first port 14 (the first distribution system 18 being switched on, the first channel and the second channel of said system are not in communication) or through the fourth port 17 (the fourth distribution system 26 being switched off, the second channel and the first channel of said system are not in communication).

[0219] The water is then directed towards the second connection system 19 (the first distribution system 18 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0220] The water is then directed to the third connection system 24 (the second distribution system 19 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication). The water then arrives in the tank 25 (the third distribution system 24 being switched on, the third channel and the second channel of said system are in communication).

[0221] After a predetermined time interval and / or a predetermined volume of fluid has passed through the cartridge 10, the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the fifth step.

[0222] The control system 7 then controls the device 1 to return to the initial state of the first stage. For this purpose, the control system 7 switches the first 18, the second 19, the third 24, the fifth 27 and the eighth 33 distribution systems to their off state and switches the fourth distribution system 26 to its on state. The control system 7 also stops the pumping system 21.

[0223] The operator only has to retrieve the filled collector 20 to replace it with a new collector and restart the five-step cycle as previously described. In this case, the control system 7 restarts the pump 21.

[0224] It is therefore understood that with this device 1 the collection and cleaning of the cartridge 10 is done automatically by the device 1 alone.

[0225] The operator's intervention on device 1 is quick and simple.

[0226] Furthermore, it is not necessary to move the device 1 between two sample takings.

[0227] Advantageously, even an untrained operator can easily carry out the sampling. The sampling by the device 1 is also customizable. For example, the operator can impose the volume of lysate that the collector 20 must contain, the volume of fluid that must pass through the cartridge 10, etc. These parameters can, for example, be programmed remotely via the communication interface 8 and / or the human / machine interface 9.

[0228] Advantageously, the same pumping system 21 is used for an entire cycle of the five steps described. In particular, the same pumping system 21 is used for both sampling and cleaning the cartridge 10.

[0229] Device 1 also proves to be robust.

[0230] Device 1 is also compact.

[0231] Device 1 is relatively inexpensive to construct and operate.

[0232] In addition, the same 10 cartridge can be used multiple times.

[0233] Advantageously, the various cleaning products and rinsing water are recovered and not released into the natural environment.

[0234] It is also noted that the sample that is recovered is thus in a liquid form. It is in fact a liquid concentrate (since a large number of biological components could have been trapped in cartridge 10).

[0235] This allows an operator to be able to analyze the sample more quickly (direct analysis or after a simple sample purification phase is thus possible) and / or to be able to preserve the components contained in the sample more easily and more easily. The device 1 thus allows pre-treatment of the samples and / or good preservation of the samples.

[0236] With such a device, it is thus possible to prepare a concentrated sample of environmental nucleic acids (eNA) for analysis. The environmental nucleic acid (eNA) can be environmental deoxyribonucleic acid (eDNA), ribonucleic acid (eRNA), or a mixture of the two. The concentrated sample obtained using device 1 is thus compatible with the different methods of analysis of eDNA or eRNA (environmental RiboNucleic Acid): Chain Reaction (better known by the English acronym PCR) and its derivatives (qPCR, rtPCR, ddPCR), metagenomics, genetic biosensors, protein and viral activity tests, etc.

[0237] In conclusion, device 1 makes it possible to automatically collect, concentrate and extract biological components while limiting manipulations on the fluid and therefore the risks of possible contamination of the sample.

[0238] In a second embodiment illustrated in Figures 5a to 5g, the device 1 is configured to comprise at least two sample collectors. In this way, different samples can be taken by the device 1 autonomously between each change of the collectors for the operator.

[0239] As visible in figure 5a, the device 1 of the second embodiment is identical to that of the first embodiment except for the third distribution system 24 and the number of collectors.

[0240] While in the first embodiment the third distribution system 24 was a three-way distribution system, in the second embodiment the third distribution system 24 is a distribution system comprising more ways. For example the distribution system comprises a valve comprising a first way connected to the second distribution system 19, a second way connected to the tank 25 and at least two additional ways each collected at a separate sample collector. For example the device 1 comprises seven collectors 20.1, 20.2, 20.3, 20.4, 20.5, 20.6, 20.7 and the third distribution system 24 comprises at least seven ways of connection to each of these collectors.The third distribution system 24 comprises, for example, a valve called a selective valve or else comprises a network of pipes each associated with a dedicated valve, all the dedicated valves being managed by a common controller of the third distribution system 24.

[0241] The first step of loading the cartridge 10, illustrated in figure 5a, is thus identical to that of the first embodiment.

[0242] Preferably, in a second step, illustrated in Figure 5b, the distribution systems are configured as follows:

[0243] - the first distribution system 18 is switched off,

[0244] - the second distribution system 19 is switched on, the third distribution system 24 is connected to the tank 25,

[0245] - the fourth distribution system 26 is switched off,

[0246] - the fifth distribution system 27 is switched on,

[0247] - the sixth distribution system 28 is switched off,

[0248] - the seventh distribution system 29 is switched off,

[0249] - the eighth distribution system 33 is switched off.

[0250] Furthermore, the pump 22 is powered to be able to operate in its second direction of rotation. Preferably, the pump 22 rotates at a lower rotation speed than during the first stage.

[0251] In this configuration, thanks to the pumping system 21, the lysis product is pumped from its reserve to successively reach the eighth distribution system 33, the sixth distribution system 28, the fifth distribution system 27 and the cartridge 10.

[0252] The lysis product thus passes through the cartridge 10 and naturally lyses the components trapped in the cartridge 10. The lysate thus obtained leaves the cartridge 10 through the first port 14 and successively passes through the second connection system 19, the third connection system 24 until it reaches the tank.

[0253] After a predetermined time interval and / or a predetermined volume of fluid has passed through the cartridge 10, the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the second stage and begin implementing a third stage.

[0254] For this purpose, the control system 7 switches the second distribution system 19 and the fifth distribution system 27 to their off states.

[0255] This second step is a so-called pre-elution step. It ensures that the lysis product has been introduced into the entire device 1 before the elution step itself.

[0256] In the third stage, illustrated in Figure 5c, all distribution systems are turned off.

[0257] There is no longer any movement of fluids voluntarily caused inside the cartridge 10. On the other hand, the lysis product having been introduced into the system 1 in the previous step, the lysis continues during this third step in a natural manner in the cartridge 10.

[0258] After a predetermined time interval, the control system 7 controls the device 1 to stop implementing the third step and start implementing the fourth step. For this purpose, the control system 7 switches the second distribution system 19 and the fifth distribution system 27 to their on states and the third distribution system 24 so that it is connected to one of the collectors.

[0259] This third step is a so-called passive lysis step.

[0260] The inventors were able to observe that the addition of pre-elution and passive lysis steps made it possible to improve the extraction yield of the components trapped in the cartridge 10.

[0261] The fourth step of filling a collector, illustrated in Figure 5d, is identical to that of the first embodiment - it being understood that the third distribution system 24 selects a new collector to be filled with the lysate at each sample collection. This fourth step is thus a step of elution of the sample. The steps of washing successively with the first washing product (Figure 5e) and the second washing product (Figure 5f) and the step of rinsing with distilled water (Figure 5g) are identical to those of the first embodiment.

[0262] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described but encompasses any variant falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0263] Although the pump here is a peristaltic pump, the pump could be different, such as a vane pump, a pneumatic diaphragm pump, etc.

[0264] The pump speed during each of the steps described may differ from what has been indicated. Preferably, the pumping system (and the pump) will be controllable in terms of speed and direction of rotation.

[0265] The device may include other elements than those indicated, such as one or more other filters associated with the pump to protect it; one or more suction pipes connecting the inlet pipe 36 to the pumping system, etc.

[0266] The device may include a different number of connection systems than those indicated.

[0267] Although here each multi-way connection system comprises a single valve, each multi-way connection system may comprise a greater number of valves. If the connection system comprises at least two valves, the ports of the connection system may be indifferently associated with those of the first valve, the second valve or be common to the first valve and the second valve. At least one of the valves of the device may thus be a two-way valve, a three-way valve or a valve with a greater number of ports.

[0268] Although it has been indicated here that the device may be implanted immobile in a given natural environment, the device may of course be implanted on an object or a mobile vehicle in said natural environment (instrumented buoys, autonomous underwater robot, remotely operated underwater vehicle, etc.).

[0269] At least one analysis of the content of at least one of the collectors can already be carried out within the system.

[0270] The device will be able to indicate the status of at least one parameter to the operator (via its communication interface and / or its human / machine interface) such as one or more data from the flow meter, one or more data from the battery charge status, etc.

[0271] Although here the housing is configured to withstand splashes and / or wet and salty environments, the housing can be configured to be fully submerged. Preferably, the housing will thus be waterproof.

[0272] Although here the device works on battery, the device can also work on mains power.

[0273] As a replacement or in addition to recharging the battery from the mains, the battery can be recharged autonomously via one or more solar panels carried by the box (or any other renewable energy converter than solar panels).

[0274] The different embodiments may be combined with each other. For example, the second embodiment may be freed from its pre-elution and passive lysis step as in the first embodiment. Conversely, the first embodiment may include the additional pre-elution and passive lysis steps, interspersed between its two collection steps.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Autonomous collection device (1) comprising a box (2) provided with at least one inlet pipe 36 opening outside the box, at least one discharge pipe (37) opening outside the box, at least one sample collection system which comprises at least one cartridge (10) and at least one fluid collector connected to said cartridge, characterized in that the cartridge comprises at least four connection ports and that the device comprises a first multi-way connection system, a first way of which is connected to a first connection port (14) of the cartridge, a second way of which is connected to a second connection port (16) of the cartridge and a third way of which is connected to the fluid collector as well as to the inlet pipe (36),the cartridge being further shaped so that its third connection port (17) is connected to the evacuation pipe (37) and so that its fourth connection port (15) is connected to at least one reservoir of a cartridge cleaning product., 2. Device according to claim 1, in which the cartridge (10) is a hollow fiber cartridge.

3. Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, in which the third channel is connected to the fluid collector as well as to the intake pipe (36) via a second multi-channel connection system (19).

4. Device according to claim 3, in which the second multi-channel connection system (19) comprises a first channel connected to the third channel of the first multi-way connection system (18), a second way is connected to the inlet pipe (36) and a third way is connected to the fluid collector.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a waste recovery tank (25).

6. Device according to claim 4 and claim 6, in which the waste recovery tank (25) is connected to the second multi-way connection system (19).

7. Device according to claim 6, comprising a third multi-way connection system (24) of which a first way is connected to the third way of the second multi-way connection system (19), of which a second way is connected to the fluid collector and of which a third way is connected to the waste recovery tank (25).

8. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two reservoirs (30, 31) of cleaning products for the cartridge, the two reservoirs being connected to the fourth connection port of the cartridge (10).

9. Device according to claim 8, in which one of the two reservoirs comprises a basic cleaning product and the other of the reservoirs comprises an acidic cleaning product, the average of the pH of said two cleaning products being equal to 7.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one container (32) of demineralized water, the container being connected to the fourth connection port of the cartridge (10).

11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one reserve (34) of at least one lysis product, the reserve being connected to the fourth connection port of the cartridge (10).

12. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one pumping system (21) for circulating one or more fluids through the cartridge (10) in at least two directions of circulation between its different connection ports.

13. Device according to claim 12, in which the pumping system (21) comprises a peristaltic pump (22).

14. Device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising several fluid collectors connected to the third channel of the first distribution system (18).

15. Collection method implemented in a device according to one of the preceding claims, the collector recovering a liquid lysate at the end of the collection.

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