Aerosol Collecting Device for Direct Bioaerosol Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting biological aerosols using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry are hindered by the inability to collect and directly absorb aerosol particles from the air onto the sample plate in real-time, requiring manual concentration and deposition processes that are time-consuming and inefficient for battlefield applications.
Innovation Solution
An aerosol collecting device comprising a housing with a sample plate and a suction mechanism that allows for the direct absorption of bioaerosols onto the MALDI-TOF sample plate, eliminating the need for manual concentration and deposition processes by using a sample inlet and suction opening configuration that facilitates the collection and dispersion of aerosols around the sample plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual collection and concentration processes are used, then sample collection is possible, but detection time is excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sample collection, concentration, and deposition functions into a single integrated device. The housing combines a collection chamber with a centrifugal concentration mechanism and a deposition system that directly places concentrated samples onto the MALDI-TOF plate, eliminating the need for separate manual operations and reducing preprocessing time from over 10 minutes to a rapid automated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service by automatically collecting aerosol samples, concentrating them through centrifugal force, and depositing them onto the sample plate without requiring manual intervention. The system includes an automated pump for aerosol intake, a centrifugal mechanism for concentration, and a robotic deposition system that works autonomously to enable rapid detection.
2Productivity
If direct aerosol collection is implemented, then real-time detection is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional modules: an aerosol collection chamber, a centrifugal concentration mechanism, a deposition system, and a MALDI-TOF interface. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently optimized, allowing real-time detection capability while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the collection chamber, contains the centrifugal concentration mechanism, provides the deposition pathway, and interfaces with the MALDI-TOF system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and minimizes overall device complexity while enabling real-time detection.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual separation and concentration is performed, then sample preparation is achievable, but operational efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated centrifugal concentration system. The centrifugal mechanism automatically separates and concentrates aerosol particles based on their mass and density, eliminating the need for manual separation techniques and dramatically increasing processing throughput while maintaining sample preparation quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a pump-driven aerosol intake system and a centrifugal mechanism that utilizes rotational force to concentrate particles. The pneumatic system controls aerosol flow into the collection chamber, while the centrifugal force generated by rotation achieves rapid concentration, replacing manual methods and enhancing processing efficiency.
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 rapid and simple detection of biological attacks by directly absorbing bioaerosols onto the MALDI-TOF sample plate, reducing preprocessing time and enhancing the ability to identify contaminants and trigger alarms in real-time.
Implementation Method 1
a second body having a suction opening on one surface thereof, the suction opening configured to suck air inside the sample passing space
Data Source
AI summary
An aerosol collecting device includes: a sample plate; and a housing having a sample passing space around the sample plate so as to enclose at least part of the sample plate, wherein the housing includes: a first body having a sample inlet on one surface thereof; and a second body having a suction opening on one surface thereof, the suction opening configured to suck air inside the sample passing space, the second body formed to be engaged with the first body in a state where the sample plate is interposed therebetween.