Biofluid Filtration Device with Quantitative Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for processing biofluid samples are prone to leakage, contamination, variability, and inability to standardize quantitative collection, particularly failing to separate human cells from non-human components like viruses, which affects the accuracy of diagnostic assays.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained filtration device that separates biofluid samples by size filtration, allowing for the isolation of human cells and genetic material, and enables standardized quantitative collection, reducing contamination and variability through a collection and quantitative chamber system with a plunger device for processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple sample transfer steps are used in conventional biofluid processing, then sample purification can be achieved, but cumulative variability increases and sample loss occurs through clinging or evaporation
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple sample transfer and purification steps into a single integrated filtration unit. The collection chamber, filter, and quantitative chamber are combined in one device, allowing sample purification without multiple transfers, thereby eliminating cumulative variability and sample loss while maintaining purification quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtration device performs multiple functions simultaneously: collection, filtration, quantification, and separation in a single unit. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate transfer steps between different devices, reducing sample loss and variability while maintaining purification effectiveness.
2Productivity
If conventional filtration methods are used, then sample processing can be performed, but leakage occurs increasing risk of contamination and adverse health events
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a sealed quantitative chamber as an intermediary between the collection chamber and the external environment. This intermediate chamber with defined volume markings allows safe handling and measurement of filtered samples without direct exposure, reducing contamination risk while maintaining processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device extracts the filtered sample into a separate quantitative chamber that can be removed from the collection chamber. This separation allows the user to handle only the necessary volume in a controlled environment, minimizing exposure risk while maintaining processing efficiency.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional collection methods are used, then biofluid samples can be collected, but quantitative collection cannot be standardized
Solution Approach 1:
The quantitative chamber is pre-marked with volume indicators before sample collection. This preliminary preparation allows for standardized quantitative collection by providing reference marks that guide the collection process, ensuring consistent and reproducible sample volumes across different users and settings.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional methods are used, then sample processing can occur, but human cells cannot be separated from non-human components like viruses and bacteria
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a filter with specific pore sizes designed to selectively retain human cells while allowing viruses and bacteria to pass through. This localized filtering property at the molecular level achieves separation purity without compromising the overall flexibility of sample processing.
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 device effectively isolates human cells from non-human components, improving the purity and quantity of DNA for pharmacogenomic applications and enhancing the sensitivity and accuracy of infectious disease assays by standardizing sample analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a filter device that upon an application of force separates the biofluid sample into a filtered component and a retained component
Data Source
AI summary
The present specification discloses filtration devices for processing a biofluid sample, methods of purifying a biofluid sample using the disclosed filtration devices, and systems comprising components of the filtration devices. The filtration device generally includes a collection container, a quantitative container, a filter, and a plunger slidably inserted through a plunger attachment. In a first configuration, the quantitative container is axially slidably inserted within the collection chamber, with fluid communication between the quantitative chamber and the collection chamber provided through the filter. In a second configuration, the filter and the collection container are separated from the quantitative container, the plunger attachment is fitted to the quantitative chamber open end with at least a portion of the plunger positioned within the quantitative chamber.