Biological Sample Container with Centrifugal Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for transferring biological samples are laborious, prone to human error, and risk contamination, especially when handling small quantities, which is critical in forensic analysis where sample integrity is paramount.
Innovation Solution
A container with a selective passage portion that controls the release of fluid or liquid based on centrifugal force and shaking velocity, allowing for efficient and controlled transfer of biological samples from a collecting device to a test tube, reducing the need for delicate handling and minimizing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and transfer of collecting device portions is used, then sample extraction can be performed, but the risk of contamination and human error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The container merges the collecting device portion holder, extraction chamber, and transfer mechanism into a single integrated unit. The collecting device portion is retained within the container body during centrifugation, eliminating the need for separate manual handling steps and reducing contamination risk while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The container enables self-service operation where the system automatically performs sample extraction through centrifugal force without requiring delicate manual intervention. The container structure itself facilitates the transfer process, reducing reliance on operator skill and minimizing human error.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple transfer steps are used to extract biological material, then complete sample recovery can be achieved, but the time required and risk of contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The container is pre-configured with the collecting device portion positioned within the extraction chamber before centrifugation begins. The structural arrangement is prepared in advance to enable direct transfer of liquid and biological material during the centrifugation process, eliminating the need for multiple sequential transfer steps and reducing overall extraction time.
3Productivity
If the container allows fluid passage during centrifugation, then sample transfer is efficient, but the container structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The container incorporates a porous bottom wall in the extraction chamber that allows selective passage of liquid and biological material during centrifugation. This porous structure enables efficient sample transfer while maintaining a relatively simple container design, avoiding the need for complex mechanical valves or moving parts.
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 container simplifies the extraction process, reduces the risk of contamination, and enables the recovery of nearly all collected biological samples, making it easier, safer, and more efficient to handle small quantities.
Implementation Method 1
The selective passage portion is configured such as to enable passage of the liquid from the container to the test tube when the container is subjected to a determined mechanical shaking or to a relative centrifugal force
Implementation Method 2
The test tube can be of a type conventionally known in the sector as EPPENDORF®, from the name of a production company of this type of test tube. The test tube is closed and maintained at ambient temperature, or subjected to a heat incubation treatment, at predetermined temperatures and for predetermined times
Data Source
AI summary
A container for selective transport of samples of biological material or of biological origin suitable for containing at least a fluid or liquid and/or for containing at least a portion of a collecting device, the container having a selective passage portion configured to prevent exit of a fluid or liquid from the container, through the passage portion, at least in at least an operating sealed condition defined at least by a rest state of the container or by a first value of mechanical shaking of the container and/or by a first value of relative centrifugal force to which the container is subjected, and configured selectively to enable exit of the fluid or liquid from the container, across the passage portion, at least in an operating passage condition, defined at least by a corresponding second state of mechanical shaking of the container and/or wherein the container is subjected to a corresponding second relative centrifugal force.