Absorbent Probe Blood Sampling Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current blood sampling methods face challenges such as difficulty in precise volume sampling, variability in sample viscosity leading to inconsistent spot sizes, and manual handling requirements, which result in errors and increased costs due to the need for specialized equipment and handling precautions.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring an absorbent probe made of hydrophilic polymeric material, designed to absorb a predetermined volume of blood quickly and uniformly, connected to a holder that facilitates easy manipulation and drying, allowing for automated processing and reducing the need for manual handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional glass capillaries are used for blood sampling, then sample collection is possible, but precise volume sampling is difficult and air bubbles cause volume variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable micropipettes with pre-marked volume indicators instead of reusable glass capillaries. These disposable devices eliminate the need for cleaning and sterilization, ensure consistent volume delivery, and prevent cross-contamination. The micropipettes are designed for single use with precise volume markings, directly addressing the precision and reliability issues with traditional capillaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual visual estimation method used with glass capillaries with a standardized mechanical micropipette system featuring pre-marked volume indicators. This mechanical substitution provides precise volume measurement through engineered features rather than operator skill, eliminating variability caused by human error and air bubbles.
2Quantity of substance
If blood samples are frozen for later processing, then sufficient sample volume can be obtained, but costs increase and small animal blood volume is quickly depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs blood spot collection and drying immediately at the time of sampling, before any processing is needed. By preparing the samples in advance through direct spotting and drying on cards, the need for later freezing and complex processing is eliminated. This preliminary action saves time and resources while obtaining sufficient analytical volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the necessary plasma or serum components from whole blood by applying blood to absorption paper, which selectively absorbs the liquid portion. This extraction method obtains sufficient analytical volume without needing to process large volumes of whole blood through freezing and centrifugation, thereby reducing time and cost.
3Ease of operation
If blood is dried on cards for storage and shipping, then handling becomes simpler and no special precautions are needed, but sample viscosity variability causes inconsistent spot sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of blood from liquid to dried form on absorption paper. This parameter change (drying) preserves the sample for storage and shipping without requiring special precautions, while the absorption paper's capillary action ensures uniform distribution regardless of initial viscosity variations, maintaining spot size consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses porous absorption paper with controlled pore structure to collect and dry blood samples. The porous material's capillary action draws blood into the paper uniformly, compensating for viscosity variations and ensuring consistent spot sizes. The standardized pore structure provides reproducible absorption characteristics across different samples.
4Measurement precision
If manual handling and processing of blood spots is performed, then precise operations can be executed, but errors increase and specialized equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable blood spot cards and micropipettes that eliminate the need for complex reusable equipment requiring sterilization and maintenance. These simple disposable items maintain precision while reducing device complexity, as they require no special handling equipment or specialized processing infrastructure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enables precise and efficient blood sampling with reduced errors, faster absorption and drying times, and simplified automated processing, enhancing the reliability and cost-effectiveness of blood analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The absorbent probe is placed against a blood sample or blood drop(s). Wicking action draws the blood into the absorbent probe.
Implementation Method 2
The absorbent probe is made of a material that wicks up substantially the same volume of fluid even when excess fluid is available.
Data Source
AI summary
A blood sampling device is provided having holder with a manipulating end and an absorbent probe on the opposing end. The probe is of hydrophilic polymer sized to directly absorb a predetermined volume of up to about 30 microliters of blood. Ribs on the holder position the probe within a compartment of a container to prevent contact with the container. The ribs also position the probe within extraction wells.