Automated Medical Sample Collection and Testing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current blood sampling methods are inefficient, causing inconsistent sample quantities, stress, and contamination, and require manual alignment and operation, with a need for improved sensitivity and accuracy, especially for frequent and small-volume sample analysis.
Innovation Solution
An automated sample collection and testing device (SCTD) that uses removable cartridges with a piercing element, fluid sensing chip, and optical components to automatically collect and analyze small fluid samples, including blood, with features like non-contact sensing and disposable components for single-use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual blood sampling is used, then users can collect samples, but sample quantities are inconsistent and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sampling device performs sample collection without manual intervention. The system automatically positions the lancet, controls penetration depth, and collects the blood sample, eliminating the need for users to manually prick their fingers and handle samples, thereby ensuring consistent sample quantities and reducing contamination risk
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical system. The device uses a motorized or spring-driven lancet mechanism controlled by a microprocessor to achieve precise, repeatable sample collection, substituting the inconsistent manual mechanical action with a controlled automated system
2Ease of operation
If manual alignment and operation of lancing devices is required, then users can perform sampling, but operation complexity increases and user stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-alignment and self-operation through automated mechanisms. The system includes sensors that detect finger placement and automatically position the lancet, eliminating the need for users to manually align components. The entire sampling process is initiated and completed automatically, reducing operational complexity for the user
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment based on detected conditions. The system modifies lancet penetration depth, sampling rate, and other operational parameters automatically based on sensor feedback, allowing the device to adapt to different users and conditions without requiring manual parameter specification
3Productivity
If frequent sampling is performed manually, then monitoring can be maintained, but time commitment per subject increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated device enables continuous or near-continuous sampling operations without the interruptions inherent in manual procedures. The system can perform multiple samples in rapid succession with automatic sample collection, processing, and preparation for analysis, eliminating the time losses associated with manual repositioning, alignment, and handling between samples
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary actions automatically, including finger positioning, lancet alignment, and sample collection preparation, before the actual sampling moment. This pre-positioning and automation of preparatory steps reduces the total time required for each sampling event and enables faster sequential sampling
4Measurement precision
If current testing methods are used, then samples can be analyzed, but detection sensitivity and accuracy are insufficient for small volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical or visual testing methods with optical detection systems. The device uses light sources, photodetectors, and image processing algorithms to detect and analyze blood samples, providing superior sensitivity and precision for small volume measurements compared to traditional methods
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs advanced optical parameters and detection wavelengths optimized for blood component detection. By using specific light wavelengths, detection angles, and signal processing techniques, the system achieves high measurement precision with minimal sample volumes, overcoming the limitations of conventional testing methods
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, accurate, and stress-free collection and analysis of small fluid samples, improving sensitivity and reducing the time required for testing, while minimizing contamination and manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
The piercing element may be automatically extended an appropriate amount to draw blood through the skin
Implementation Method 2
The sample may be collected via a receptacle 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
Data Source
AI summary
An automated method of evaluating a collected fluid sample includes: filling a sample cavity with the collected fluid sample; adding a buffer solution; separating the collected fluid sample into a first portion and a second portion; mixing the second portion with tagged antibodies; removing leftover tagged antibodies; and measuring a difference between the first portion and the second portion. A sample collection and testing device includes: a reference cavity comprising a reference fluid sample; a test cavity comprising a test fluid sample; a reference measurement element associated with the reference cavity; and a test measurement element associated with the test cavity. A method of evaluating a collected fluid sample including: separating the sample; pumping a first portion to a first measurement cavity; adding a solution to a second portion and pumping the mixture to a second measurement cavity; and measuring a charge difference between the first and second measurement cavities.