Capillary Sampler with Barrier and Plunger for Sample Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
In point-of-care systems for analyzing biological samples, the additional steps of transferring samples and mixing them with reagents can lead to inaccurate results and sample loss, especially when processing multiple samples simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A handheld sample collection and dispensing device with a capillary sampler and a reagents chamber, where a barrier assembly separates the reagents from the sampler and a plunger assembly dispenses the reagents upon force application, allowing for direct mixing and transfer of samples to testing devices without intermediate steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a technician transfers the sample to a different receptacle and mixes it with reagent, then the sample can be prepared for analysis, but this leads to inaccurate test results and sample loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sample collection capillary, reagent storage chamber, and mixing chamber into a single integrated device. The reagent is pre-loaded in the same device where the sample is collected, eliminating the need for separate transfer and mixing steps with different receptacles. This integration directly resolves the technical contradiction by maintaining reliability through reduced handling while simplifying the processing workflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The reagent is pre-measured and pre-loaded into the reagent chamber before sample collection. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for technicians to manually measure and add reagents during sample processing, thereby improving test result accuracy by ensuring consistent reagent volumes and reducing the number of processing steps.
2Quantity of substance
If a technician transfers the sample to a second receptacle before loading onto a testing device, then the sample can be prepared, but this leads to loss of a portion of the sample
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the sample collection function and sample storage function into a single capillary-reagent chamber system. The sample remains in the same device throughout the process, eliminating transfers between receptacles and preventing sample loss. The integrated design ensures that the entire sample volume is retained and available for analysis.
3Productivity
If additional processing steps are performed to prepare the sample, then the sample can be mixed with reagent, but this increases processing time and error potential
Solution Approach 1:
The reagent is pre-loaded and pre-measured in the reagent chamber before sample collection. This preliminary action eliminates the need for technicians to perform manual reagent addition and mixing operations during sample processing, thereby reducing processing time and minimizing opportunities for human error while maintaining proper sample preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-mixing of the sample and reagent through the capillary action and pressure differential mechanisms built into the system. The sample automatically mixes with the pre-loaded reagent in the chamber without requiring manual intervention, reducing processing time and eliminating errors associated with manual mixing techniques.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the sample is stored in a buffer or media prior to analysis, then the sample can be preserved, but this requires additional steps to transfer or add reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The device combines the buffer storage function and sample mixing function within the same reagent chamber. The buffer is pre-loaded in the chamber, and the sample mixes directly with it in-situ, eliminating the need for separate transfer steps to and from storage vessels. This integration maintains sample stability through proper buffering while reducing processing complexity.
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
This solution reduces processing time and errors by enabling efficient sample collection, storage, and dispensing with a pre-measured reagent, minimizing sample loss and ensuring accurate analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a capillary sampler disposed on a device first end, wherein the capillary sampler is configured to collect a fluid sample via an opening and a capillary body
Implementation Method 2
a plunger assembly disposed on a device second end opposite the device first end is configured to modify the barrier assembly to dispense the fluid from the reagents chamber to the capillary sampler responsive to application of a force in the direction of the device first end
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure are directed to sample collecting and dispensing methods and apparatuses. An example apparatus includes a capillary sampler disposed on a device first end, wherein the capillary sampler is configured to collect a fluid sample via an opening and a capillary body. The apparatus further includes a reagents chamber in fluid communication with the capillary sampler, and a barrier assembly disposed between the capillary sampler and the reagents chamber, wherein the barrier assembly is configured to separate fluid in the reagents chamber from the capillary sampler. A plunger assembly disposed on a device second end opposite the device first end, may modify the barrier assembly to dispense the fluid from the reagents chamber to the capillary sampler responsive to application of a force in the direction of the device first end.