Adjustable Lancet Cartridge for Consistent Automated Blood Sampling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood sampling methods require manual pricking, leading to inconsistent sample quantities, user stress, potential contamination, and time-consuming processes, with a need for automated and controlled sample collection and testing.
Innovation Solution
An automated sample collection and testing device (SCTD) with removable cartridges that includes a lancet assembly, microfluidic chip, and non-contact sensing elements, capable of automatic sample collection and analysis, using a spring-loaded needle for controlled piercing and optical components for measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual pricking method is used, then device complexity is reduced, but sample collection consistency and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pricking with an automated lancet extension mechanism driven by a motor or actuator. The system uses a motor to extend the lancet to a predetermined depth, eliminating manual alignment and force application. This mechanical substitution ensures consistent sample collection depth and quantity while reducing operator skill requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements adjustable extension force and depth parameters through motor control. The system allows programming of specific extension distances and forces to optimize sample collection for different users and testing requirements. This parameter control ensures consistent sampling while accommodating variations in skin thickness and user needs.
2Measurement precision
If automated lancet extension is implemented, then sample collection accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a motor-driven mechanism that pre-positions the lancet at a predetermined extension depth before contact with the user's finger. The system performs preliminary alignment and depth setting automatically, ensuring accurate extension without requiring complex real-time control during the actual pricking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses disposable lancets that are replaced after each use or a set number of uses. This eliminates the need for complex sterilization and maintenance systems, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high precision through factory-pre calibrated disposable components.
3Productivity
If manual sample collection is performed, then device complexity is minimized, but time commitment and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into an integrated system: the motor extends the lancet, the same motor retracts it, and the system automatically applies pressure to the finger to facilitate blood flow. This merging of extension, retraction, and pressure application functions into a single automated sequence dramatically reduces collection time while managing device complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a continuous automated sequence where the lancet extends, pierces, collects sample, and retracts without manual intervention between steps. The motor continuously drives the lancet through its full cycle, eliminating idle time and manual transition delays, thereby maximizing productivity.
4Reliability
If adjustable extension force is implemented, then sample quality improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic parameter selection where the system self-adjusts extension force and depth based on pre-programmed protocols or user profile selections. The motor control system automatically applies the appropriate force without requiring the user to manually adjust dials or switches, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring optimal sample quality through precise force control.
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
Facilitates quick, accurate, and controlled sample collection with reduced user stress, minimizing contamination and time commitment, while allowing for efficient analysis of small fluid samples.
Implementation Method 1
A first exemplary embodiment provides a disposable lancet assembly comprising: a spring aligned along a linear axis; a lancet aligned along the linear axis adjacent to the spring
Implementation Method 2
A second exemplary embodiment provides a cartridge for use with a sample collection and testing device
Data Source
AI summary
A test cartridge includes an adjustable lancet. The adjustable lancet is controlled by a controller. The adjustable lancet automatically detects a subject's finger, adjusts the lancet's height, pricks the finger to draw blood, moves a tube to collect the blood, moves the tube away from the finger, and empties the blood from the tube into a vial or receptacle. The adjustable lancet may include safety features to prevent the lancet to trigger when the subject's fingernail is facing the lancet, to control the amount that the lancet pierces the subject's finger, and/or to prevent the reuse of a test cartridge for multiple persons or multiple times by the same person. The adjustable lancet may include a massager wheel and/or a pressure bar to rub the subject's finger after the finger is pierced to facilitate drawing of the blood from the finger.