Blood Micro-Sample Stabilization Using Internal Vacuum Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for collecting and analyzing small blood samples in point-of-care settings require conventional methods that increase exposure risk and necessitate excess specimen collection, lacking controlled dispensing and stabilization capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A biological fluid collection device with an internal vacuum and passive mixing technology for blood stabilization, enabling controlled dispensing and minimizing exposure risk through an integrated sample stabilizer and vacuum system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional sample collection methods with 1ml syringe or pipette are used, then sample collection is achieved, but blood exposure risk for personnel increases and excess specimen is collected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vacuum-driven transfer system as an intermediary mechanism between the collection site and the analysis device. The vacuum source creates negative pressure that passively draws the sample through a capillary tube, eliminating the need for manual syringe operation and reducing exposure risk while enabling precise sample transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pneumatic principles by using vacuum pressure to drive sample transfer. The vacuum source creates a pressure gradient that moves the sample through the capillary tube without manual intervention, replacing the mechanical syringe/pipette system with a pressure-based automated transfer mechanism.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional sample collection methods are used, then sample collection is achieved, but excess specimen is collected requiring additional management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the volume parameter by collecting only the precise amount needed for analysis (typically 50-200 microliters) rather than conventional 1ml volumes. The vacuum-driven capillary system naturally regulates sample volume based on the test requirements, eliminating excess specimen collection and simplifying downstream management.
3Extent of automation
If integrated vacuum system is added to collection device, then controlled sample dispensing is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the vacuum generation capability directly into the collection device housing, combining previously separate components (collection device, vacuum source, transfer system) into a single integrated unit. This integration enables automated controlled dispensing while managing complexity through compact design and unified architecture.
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 provides consistent blood sample management with automatic draw, passive mixing, and controlled dispensing, reducing exposure risk and eliminating the need for additional vacuum components.
Implementation Method 1
an evacuated chamber inside the housing and containing a vacuum; and a seal transitionable from a closed position in which the vacuum is enclosed within the evacuated chamber to an open position in which the vacuum is applied to the inlet to draw the sample within the collection chamber
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A biological fluid collection device (10) that receives a sample (12) and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications is disclosed. A biological fluid collection device of the present disclosure is able to effectuate distributed mixing of a sample stabilizer within a blood sample and dispense the stabilized sample in a controlled manner. In this manner, a biological fluid collection device of the present disclosure enables blood micro- sample management, e.g., passive mixing with a sample stabilizer and controlled dispensing, for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. Advantageously, a biological fluid collection device of the present disclosure includes an internal vacuum (28). In this manner, a biological fluid collection device of the present disclosure eliminates the need for additional vacuum creating components that must be connected to the biological fluid collection device during use.