ATP Test Device Interlocking Venturi Tube

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Solution Overview

Problem

Prior art ATP test collection devices fail to adequately protect against exposure to harmful samples, particularly those containing bacteria or viruses, as they do not ensure secure containment once the sample is introduced into the test tube.

Innovation Solution

An interlocking system is implemented between the venturi and the test tube, ensuring they cannot be separated after sample collection, allowing for safe disposal and preventing accidental release of the sample.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If the test collection device allows separation of the venturi and test tube after sampling, then it is easier to dispose of the device, but the risk of sample exposure and contamination increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of disposalVSAvoidsample exposure risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into separate components (venturi and test tube) that are easily manufactured and assembled, but once assembled and used, they form a contained system that prevents sample exposure while remaining simple to dispose of as a unit

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The test collection device is designed as a disposable single-use item that is inexpensive to manufacture, allowing it to be discarded after one use, thereby eliminating the need for complex disposal procedures while ensuring sample containment during the brief period of use

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the venturi and test tube are made separable, then the device is more flexible for different testing scenarios, but the containment of harmful samples is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice flexibilityVSAvoidsample containment

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The venturi and test tube are connected in advance through an interlocking mechanism that ensures proper alignment and secure containment before the sampling process begins, eliminating the need for adjustments during use while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The venturi is designed to fit into or connect with the test tube in a nested configuration, providing secure containment while allowing the components to be easily separated for disposal after use, thus maintaining both reliability and adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If the device uses a simple open test tube design, then it is easier to read the luminometer, but personnel are exposed to environmental hazards

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveluminometer readabilityVSAvoidpersonnel exposure to hazards

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The test tube is equipped with a flexible cap or seal that can be easily opened for luminometer reading but provides effective containment during sampling and transport, protecting personnel from hazards while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

An intermediary mechanism (such as a controlled opening or selective permeable barrier) is introduced between the sample and the external environment, allowing luminometer access while preventing direct exposure to harmful samples

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250010303A1Systems and methods for ATP testing

Publication Date: 2025.01.09 EMPIRE BIO DIAGNOSTICS CORP

AI summary

The disclosed test collection device contains reagents and a testing swab. The device has a first configuration allowing easy disassembly of a tube section from a venturi, allowing a swab to be withdrawn for sample collection. The test collection device can then be reassembled with the swab and advanced to a second configuration, where reagents mix with the sample, and then processed. The second configuration securely contains the sample so that escape and contamination is lessened. Methods for assembling a test collection device and methods for using a test collection device are described.