Cell Block Filter Assembly for Small-Sample Pellet Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preparing cell blocks from small biological samples are inefficient and lack standardization, leading to suboptimal results and increased burden on pathologists and patients.
Innovation Solution
A cell block apparatus and method that includes a filter membrane with a frame and cover, capable of condensing biological samples into a cohesive pellet, separating cells from liquid, and embedding them in a medium for analysis, using a centrifuge to separate cells from liquid and form a pellet, and embedding in paraffin for further processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If homebrew methods are used to prepare cell blocks from small samples, then the procedure can be performed with simple equipment, but the results are suboptimal and lack standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the sample container by introducing a conical bottom structure with specific angle ranges (60-90 degrees) and controlled surface area ratios. This geometric parameter modification enables automatic cell pellet formation at the cone base during centrifugation, transforming a manual process into a standardized one that consistently produces high-quality cell blocks from small samples without requiring complex equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical container design allows the system to perform the cell pellet formation function automatically during centrifugation. The geometric structure guides cells to converge and accumulate at the conical base through centrifugal force, eliminating the need for external cell collection devices or manual transfer operations, thus simplifying the overall system while improving precision.
2Productivity
If smaller biological samples are used, then minimally invasive procedures can be performed, but cell block preparation becomes more difficult and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the container geometry parameters, specifically the conical bottom angle (60-90 degrees) and the ratio of conical surface area to total surface area (20-80%). These parameter adjustments create optimal conditions for cell pellet formation from small samples by maximizing centrifugal convergence at the cone base, thereby maintaining high reliability even with minimal sample volumes obtained from minimally invasive procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical bottom structure introduces a three-dimensional geometric feature that utilizes vertical and radial dimensions simultaneously. This dimensional approach concentrates cells toward the apex of the cone during centrifugation, creating an efficient collection zone that maximizes the use of limited sample material and ensures reliable cell block formation from small volumes.
3Manufacturing precision
If standardized apparatus is developed for cell block preparation, then manufacturing precision and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sample container and cell collection function into a single integrated conical container. The conical geometry itself serves as both the reaction vessel and the cell pellet collection zone, eliminating the need for separate collection devices, transfer mechanisms, or additional processing apparatus. This integration achieves standardization while minimizing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical container design performs multiple functions automatically during centrifugation: it contains the sample, facilitates cell separation through centrifugal force, and collects the cell pellet at the conical base. This self-service capability eliminates the need for multiple separate devices or complex operational sequences, achieving standardization through a simple, single-component apparatus.
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
Provides a standardized, efficient, and cost-effective method for preparing cell blocks, reducing contamination and loss of sample, and ensuring consistent pathological evaluation.
Implementation Method 1
using a centrifuge to separate cells from liquid and form a pellet
Data Source
AI summary
A medical apparatus having an elongate tubular body with a proximal end, an opening at the proximal end, and a distal end defining an interior space therebetween and the distalmost end of the elongate tubular body is configured to matingly engage a filter assembly; a filter assembly configured to matingly engage the distal portion of the elongate tubular body and to provide a seal with the interior space thereof, the filter assembly comprising a filter membrane and a border that is sectionable for mounting on a slide for analysis on a microscope; and a base member configured to releasably engage the distalmost end of the elongate tubular body and to receive the filter assembly therein.