Automated Blood Sampling Device with Disposable Cartridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood sampling methods are manual, leading to inconsistent sample quantities, stress, and potential contamination, and require additional steps for processing.
Innovation Solution
An automated sample collection and testing device (SCTD) that uses removable cartridges with a piercing element and fluid sensing chip to automatically collect and process blood samples, including a needle and spring mechanism for controlled piercing and a fluid sensing chip for sample analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual blood sampling is performed, then the subject can collect samples, but the sample quantity becomes inconsistent and causes stress
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables automatic self-sampling where the system autonomously performs finger detection, piercing, and sample collection without requiring manual dexterity or judgment from the user. The automated control system manages the entire sampling process, eliminating human error in sample quantity control while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sampling with an automated electromechanical system. The piercing element is controlled by an actuator that precisely controls penetration depth and timing, substituting human manual operation with automated mechanical control to ensure consistent sample quantities.
2Device complexity
If manual sample collection is used, then the process is simple, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable cartridges that are pre-packaged and sealed. Each cartridge contains a fresh piercing element and collection receptacle that is used once and then discarded, eliminating cross-contamination between samples while keeping the overall system relatively simple through modular cartridge design.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable cartridge acts as an intermediary between the user and the sampling system. It provides a barrier that prevents direct contact with potential contaminants while maintaining the simplicity of the user interface through standardized cartridge insertion and removal.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated sampling is implemented, then sample collection consistency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the automated sampling system into modular segments: a reusable main unit and disposable cartridges. This segmentation allows the complex automated mechanisms (actuators, sensors, control systems) to be contained in the reusable portion, while the disposable portion remains relatively simple in structure but provides precise sampling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable cartridges are pre-configured with piercing elements, collection receptacles, and sealing mechanisms before use. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex assembly or calibration during actual sampling, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high precision in sample collection.
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 SCTD enables efficient, consistent, and stress-free automatic blood sample collection and processing, reducing manual handling and potential contamination, while allowing for precise sample analysis and storage.
Implementation Method 1
The piercing element may be automatically extended an appropriate amount to draw blood through the skin in this example
Implementation Method 2
The sample may be collected via a receptacle (e.g., a recess in a surface of the cartridge) using a pump, valve, fluid sensing chip, tubing or other flow pathways
Implementation Method 3
Some embodiments may include non-contact sensing elements such that the fluid sensing device is able to be reused. Such non-contact elements may include, for instance, embedded sensors or leads that are able to be accessed via terminals along an outer surface of the cartridge
Implementation Method 4
One example cartridge may be able to perform a test for cancer using human aspartyl (asparaginyl) β-hydroxylase (HAAH) protein and its associated antibodies. Such a cartridge may utilize magnetic beads and charge detection to evaluate samples
Data Source
AI summary
An automated fluid sample collector includes: a collection receptacle; an actuator; and a piercing element coupled to the actuator. An automated sample collection device includes: a sample receptacle; a needle that is able to extend into the sample receptacle; an actuator coupled to the needle such that the actuator is able to extend and retract the needle; and a fluid chip coupled to the sample receptacle, the fluid chip able to accommodate an amount of collected fluid. An automated method of collecting a fluid sample includes: activating a pump associated with a finger retention element in order to add fluid to the finger retention element; extending an actuator associated with a piercing element; opening a pinch valve; activating a collection pump; deactivating the collection pump; closing the pinch valve; and releasing fluid from the finger retention element.