Adjustable Aperture Filter for Biological Specimen Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter transfer methods for collecting and transferring microscopic biological particles are limited by the need for uniform aperture sizes, leading to excess cell loss and increased costs due to the inability to form samples of varying sizes while maintaining faithful spatial distribution and standard tube size.
Innovation Solution
A filtration-based biological specimen collection and transfer device with a tubular body and annular flange, where the filter is bonded to the flange with annular troughs and a cap, allowing for adjustable aperture sizes without changing the tube diameter, using a pneumatic source and pressure monitor for precise particle collection and transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed diameter aperture filter is used, then the device structure is simple and standardized, but the sample spot size cannot be adjusted and excess cells are transferred leading to waste
Solution Approach 1:
The filter aperture is segmented into multiple discrete size options (e.g., 7mm, 14mm, 21mm) that can be selected based on test requirements. Each aperture size is a separate selectable configuration, allowing customization without requiring a completely different filter structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter aperture is made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the device to dynamically adapt to different sample spot size requirements. This transforms a static structure into a flexible one that can be reconfigured for different testing scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the aperture is adjusted without changing tube diameter, then sample spot size can be optimized, but microfluid dynamic effects distort spatial distribution of collected particles
Solution Approach 1:
An intermediary structure (such as a positioning rim or support framework) is introduced between the aperture and the collected particles to maintain spatial distribution fidelity. This intermediary element ensures that particles are transferred accurately to the slide without distortion, even when aperture size varies.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters (aperture diameter) while maintaining other critical parameters (tube diameter, spatial distribution characteristics) constant. This selective parameter adjustment allows optimization of sample spot size without compromising transfer accuracy.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform aperture filters are used, then device manufacturing is simplified, but excess cells are transferred and discarded requiring extra reagents and increasing costs
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the filter or different filter configurations have different aperture sizes tailored to specific test requirements. This local customization ensures that only the necessary number of cells are transferred, minimizing waste while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design.
4Productivity
If larger aperture filters are used, then cell collection is efficient, but excess cells are transferred leading to increased reagent usage and reduced number of tests per sample
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture parameter is changed to match the specific test requirements, allowing optimization of the balance between collection efficiency and transfer quantity. By selecting appropriate aperture sizes, the system collects sufficient cells efficiently while transferring only the needed amount, reducing reagent consumption.
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
Enables the formation of samples of varying sizes with faithful retention of spatial distribution, reducing cell loss and test reagent usage, thereby increasing the number of tests per sample collection and conserving cells.
Implementation Method 1
The liquid is then passed through a filter with a fixed diameter aperture covered by a membrane to concentrate and collect the cells. Debris, such as lysed blood cells and dispersed mucus, which flow through the pores of the membrane, are not collected on the membrane
Implementation Method 2
A prior device for collecting a dispersed monolayer of cells, and for transferring them to a microscope slide for examination, has a tube with a filter-positioning rim
Data Source
AI summary
A filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer device is provided. The filtration and transfer device comprises a tubular body with two axial ends, an annular flange disposed at one of the axial ends, and a biological specimen filter affixed to the outer surface of the annular flange. Preferably, the annular flange has disposed on its outer surface an annular ridge having a uniform height and forming a planar rim upon which the filter sits. Optionally, the annular flange comprises two mounting portions and the filter is bonded to each of those mounting portions. A method of collecting microscopic biological particles carried in a fluid is provided using the filtration and transfer device and a method of manufacturing the filtration and transfer device are also provided. A filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer system using the filtration and transfer device and a kit for use with filtration based biological specimen collection and transfer systems are also provided.