Biopsy Container Segmentation for Sample Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biopsy sample collection and processing methods face challenges in tracking individual tissue samples, leading to potential operator errors and inefficiencies in diagnostic procedures, as samples are often manually manipulated and grouped, making accurate analysis difficult.
Innovation Solution
A biopsy device with a tissue sample holder that collects samples in a single basket and a tissue container with separate reservoirs for individual sample storage, allowing for precise identification and tracking of samples without direct handling, and a system for loading these samples into a radiograph machine for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If biopsy samples are manually manipulated and grouped for collection, then the collection process is simple, but tracking and identification of individual samples becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The tissue sample holder is divided into multiple discrete chambers, with each chamber designed to hold a single tissue sample. This segmentation allows individual samples to be separated and identified while maintaining simple collection procedures. Each chamber acts as an independent unit that prevents sample mixing and enables precise tracking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of the tissue sample holder with multiple chambers and associated tracking mechanisms. This intermediary structure mediates between the simple collection process and the need for accurate sample identification, allowing samples to be collected easily while maintaining individual identification through the chamber system.
2Device complexity
If multiple tissue samples are collected in a single basket, then the collection device is simpler, but the ability to track and analyze individual samples is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single basket for multiple samples, the invention employs a tissue sample holder with multiple discrete chambers. Each chamber is designed to contain a single tissue sample, providing physical separation that enables accurate tracking and analysis of individual samples while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional collection approach (one basket) to a multi-dimensional approach (multiple chambers arranged in space). This spatial arrangement allows individual sample identification and tracking without significantly increasing device complexity, as the chambers are organized in a structured configuration.
3Ease of operation
If samples require direct handling during transport and analysis, then manual manipulation is easier, but operator errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tissue samples are pre-positioned in individual chambers within the tissue sample holder before transport and analysis. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for manual handling during subsequent steps, as the samples remain contained and identified throughout the process. The chambers are designed to interface directly with imaging systems, allowing analysis without sample removal or manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The tissue sample holder system is designed to be self-sufficient, maintaining sample integrity and identification without requiring continuous manual intervention. The chambers automatically maintain sample separation and provide interfaces for imaging systems, allowing the system to serve itself during transport and analysis without operator handling that could introduce errors.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for individually storing multiple tissue samples separately from each other includes a base, a lid, a lock, and one or more vents. The base defines a plurality of reservoirs and a plurality of identification areas. A portion of the base defines an opening corresponding to each reservoir. The lid is configured to secure the multiple tissue samples within a corresponding reservoir by enclosing each corresponding opening in the closed configuration. The lock is configured to selectively lock the lid against the base in the closed configuration. The one or more vents are configured to enable entry of fluid into the reservoirs when the lid is in the closed configuration. The one or more vents are further configured to prevent exit of tissue samples from the reservoirs when the lid is in the closed configuration.