Blood Sampling Device with Integrated Reservoir and Test Strip Dock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current blood sampling techniques for point-of-care testing are device-intensive, leading to increased time and cost, with manual collection and transfer methods resulting in inconsistent and inaccurate results due to exposure to the atmosphere and skin surfaces, which can cause analytical errors.
Innovation Solution
A biological fluid sampling device with a resiliently deformable housing, a lancet structure, and multiple test strip docks that allow for simultaneous collection and transfer of a blood sample into multiple test elements with a single stick, minimizing exposure and enhancing sample quality and operator safety through a closed system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple devices (needles, vacuum tubes, syringes) are used for blood collection, then the blood sample can be collected and transferred, but the device complexity increases and the time and cost of testing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (blood collection, storage, and transfer) into a single integrated device. The blood collection device includes a collection chamber, storage chamber, and transfer mechanism all in one unit, eliminating the need for separate needles, vacuum tubes, and syringes. This merging of functions directly reduces device complexity while maintaining or improving testing speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The blood collection device is designed as a multi-functional unit that can collect, store, and transfer blood samples. The device includes a collection chamber for initial sampling, a storage chamber for temporary holding, and a transfer mechanism for moving the sample to the analysis device. This universal design allows one device to perform multiple tasks that previously required several separate devices.
2Measurement precision
If manual collection and transfer methods are used, then the blood sample can be obtained, but the results become inconsistent and inaccurate due to exposure to atmosphere and skin surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a closed-system transfer mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the collection chamber and the analysis device. This intermediary system includes a sealed transfer chamber and controlled release mechanism that prevents direct exposure of the blood sample to the atmosphere and skin surfaces during transfer, thereby maintaining sample integrity and analysis accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The device creates a controlled, isolated environment for the blood sample during collection and transfer. The sealed chambers and controlled release mechanisms prevent contamination from atmospheric elements and skin surfaces, effectively creating an inert environment that protects the sample from harmful external factors and ensures consistent, accurate results.
3Productivity
If a single blood sample is collected, then the sampling process is simple, but the sample must be transferred to multiple test strips which increases time and potential for error
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning multiple test strips in the analysis device before the blood sample is collected. The transfer mechanism is pre-configured to automatically distribute the sample to all required test strips in sequence, eliminating the need for manual transfer operations and reducing the time required for multi-parameter testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous automated transfer of the blood sample from the collection chamber through the storage chamber to multiple test strips without interruption. The mechanical transfer mechanism operates continuously once initiated, moving the sample through the system and distributing it to all necessary test strips in a single uninterrupted sequence, thereby maximizing testing efficiency and minimizing time loss.
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 safer, reproducible, and accurate blood sampling by reducing exposure to blood-borne pathogens, improving sample quality, and allowing for the introduction of stabilizers, resulting in improved ease of use and reduced anxiety for patients with consistent results.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently deformable upper portion... The upper portion of the housing is transitionable between an undeformed position and a deformed position
Implementation Method 2
After the puncturing element moves to the puncturing position, the upper portion returns to its undeformed position and returns the puncturing element to the pre-actuated position
Data Source
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AI summary
A biological fluid sampling device adapted to receive a blood sample and includes a housing having a reservoir disposed therein and a first cavity in fluid communication with the reservoir is disclosed. The biological fluid sampling device includes a first test element removably receivable within the first cavity and a lancet having a puncturing element. Additionally, the housing may include a second cavity in fluid communication with the reservoir and a second test element removably receivable within the second cavity. With the blood sample received within the reservoir of the biological fluid sampling device, the first test element and the second test element are adapted to receive a portion of the blood sample. In this manner, the biological fluid sampling device allows for a blood sample to be collected on a plurality of test elements simultaneously. In one embodiment, the biological fluid sampling device contains a sample stabilizer.