Centrifuge Filtration Tube for Larger Stool Sample Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtration devices for centrifugation of solid or semisolid biological samples, such as faecal or stool samples, are limited by the volume they can process, leading to inaccurate and unreliable test results due to insufficient sample size, and they often require non-standardized vessels that do not fit within standard laboratory equipment.
Innovation Solution
A sieving or filtering device with perforated or mesh walls, allowing for a larger sample volume to be processed by mounting two vessels with a sealed connection, enabling centrifugation to separate supernatant and pellet efficiently, and using standard laboratory tubes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the filter section protrudes axially into the sample vessel to increase sieving surface area, then the filtering capacity is improved, but the volume of sample that may be processed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The filter section is arranged radially instead of axially, changing the orientation from the vertical dimension to the radial dimension. This allows the filter to extend outward from the central axis into the annular space between the sample vessel and centrifugal force field, maximizing filtering surface area without reducing the axial volume available for sample storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtering function is segmented into multiple radial sections distributed around the central axis. Each radial section provides filtering capability, and collectively they offer substantial total filtering surface area while maintaining a compact axial profile that preserves sample volume capacity.
2Quantity of substance
If the linking component is made longer to accommodate larger sample volumes, then the sample processing capacity is improved, but the assembly size increases beyond standard centrifuge limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The filter section is nested within the annular space defined by the sample vessel outer diameter and the centrifugal force field inner diameter. This nested arrangement allows the filter to utilize the radial dimension rather than requiring additional axial length, enabling larger sample volumes to be processed within the constraints of standard centrifuge dimensions.
3Area of stationary object
If the filter is arranged vertically to increase filtering surface area, then the sieving capacity is improved, but the filter must support the whole weight of centrifuged material
Solution Approach 1:
The filter arrangement transitions from vertical (axial) to horizontal (radial) orientation. In the radial arrangement, the filter sections are positioned perpendicular to the direction of centrifugal force, allowing the filter support structure to bear minimal load while the centrifugal force naturally directs material through the filter sections without requiring the filter to support the full weight of the centrifuged material.
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 larger sample volumes to be processed, improving sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic tests by enhancing the recovery of rare pathogens and reducing debris, while maintaining compatibility with standard laboratory equipment.
Implementation Method 1
Filtration Device and Method... sieving or filtering devices whose walls are either perforated or comprise mesh material
Implementation Method 2
The invention relates to sieving or filtering devices whose walls are either perforated or comprise mesh material
Implementation Method 3
The invention also relates to methods for use of the product of the invention in sieving, homogenising, grading, or otherwise processing samples. These methods are particularly for use in the context of centrifugation... urging the material through the perforations or mesh material of the device
Data Source
AI summary
A method of sieving or filtering solid or semisolid biological samples e.g. stool or faecal samples is described. The method allows convenient collection of the resulting matter and/or liquid by centrifugation in a compatible laboratory tube. Accordingly, a sieving or filtering device is described having a first, open end and a second, closed end, wherein at least a portion of the walls are perforated, wherein the exterior of the device has means for mounting a first vessel in fluid connection with the first end of the device, and wherein the exterior of the device has means for mounting a second vessel in fluid connection with the second end of the device, such that when the first and second vessels are mounted on the device a sealed volume is formed wherein the interior volumes of the first and second vessels and the interior volume of the device are in fluid connection. A sample in the first vessel may be urged into the second vessel via the device under centrifugation. In addition, a system for manufacturing the filtering device comprising an injection moulding tool is also provided.