Self-Collection Device with Breakable Reagent Chamber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for collecting and analyzing biological samples from the vagina are prone to contamination and user error, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and exposure risks.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained device with a container and cap that securely holds a biological sample collector, where the cap contains a reactive liquid chamber that breaks to mix with the sample, ensuring sealed analysis and minimizing user manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user manually extracts parts of the device for analysis, then the analysis can be performed, but the risk of sample contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a collection phase where the sample is collected in a sealed container, and an analysis phase where the sealed container is opened and the sample is transferred to a separate analysis chamber. This segmentation allows manual operation while maintaining sample integrity by preventing contamination during the transition between phases.
Solution Approach 2:
A sealed transfer mechanism acts as an intermediary between the collection container and the analysis chamber. This intermediary maintains the seal during sample transfer, allowing the user to perform analysis operations without directly exposing the sample to the external environment, thus preventing contamination.
2Ease of operation
If the device allows user manipulation for analysis, then analysis can be performed, but the risk of exposure to biological sample increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-prepared with all necessary components for analysis sealed within the collection container, including reagents and reaction chambers. This preliminary preparation allows the user to simply follow predefined steps without needing to manipulate exposed biological materials, reducing exposure risk while maintaining ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If the device requires precise user skill for liquid measurement, then accurate analysis is possible, but errors in measurement increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pre-measured reagent volumes and automated liquid handling mechanisms that perform measurements without requiring user intervention. The system self-regulates the amounts of liquids used in the analysis, eliminating measurement errors caused by varying user skills while maintaining ease of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the device uses a breakable chamber for reactive liquid, then the reaction can be initiated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reactive liquid is contained in a thin, breakable membrane or capsule that can be easily ruptured by simple mechanical action such as pressing or shaking. This approach initiates the chemical reaction without requiring complex chamber structures, maintaining device simplicity while providing the necessary adaptability for reaction initiation.
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 allows for isolated, contamination-free collection and analysis of biological samples, reducing the risk of errors and exposure, while enabling accurate detection of pathogens like HPV and diagnosis of cervical cancer.
Implementation Method 1
a chamber enclosing a reactive liquid and is sealed at the bottom by a sheet that is broken when the aforementioned cap is screwed on
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a biological sample self-collection device that houses a collector (such as a “veil”, buffer, swab, brush, etc.) for any biological material, preferably of vaginal origin. At the same time, it is designed to combine a reactive liquid with said substances for subsequent analysis thereof in a watertight manner. Its use includes the detection of pathogens, such as human papillomavirus, and the diagnosis of cervical cancer, among others.