Cervical Self-Sampling Device with Movable Aligning Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Pap test devices are not suitable for self-administration by patients, lacking accuracy and comfort, and often require medical assistance for cervical tissue sampling.
Innovation Solution
A cervical cell tissue self-sampling device with an elongated insertion tube and movable cervical aligning and sampling tools, allowing for private and efficient collection of cervical cell samples without medical assistance, featuring a handle retaining cover for safe operation and a brush-like cellular adhesion surface for sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional Pap test devices are used, then cervical tissue sampling can be performed, but the devices require medical assistance and are not suitable for self-administration
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: an insertion tube for vaginal insertion, a cervical aligning tool with U-shaped handle for positioning, and a cellular sampling tool with brush element for sample collection. Each segment can be independently manipulated and positioned, enabling self-administration while maintaining functional effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The cervical aligning tool and cellular sampling tool are nested within the insertion tube during storage and insertion. The aligning tool contains the sampling tool, which is further contained within the insertion tube. This nested configuration reduces overall device complexity during self-administration while allowing sequential deployment of functions.
2Ease of operation
If traditional Pap test procedures are used, then cervical cells can be collected, but the procedure is intrusive and requires reclining position
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates dynamic components including the movable cervical aligning tool that can be advanced to engage the posterior cervical fornix, and the rotatable cellular sampling tool with brush element. These dynamic features allow the device to adapt to anatomical variations and perform sampling in different positions, reducing intrusiveness and improving patient comfort.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cervical tissue sampling is performed without medical assistance, then accessibility is improved, but sample collection accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The cervical aligning tool acts as an intermediary device that first positions the posterior cervical fornix to expose the cervical os. This intermediary positioning action enables the subsequent cellular sampling tool to accurately collect cells from the cervical region, ensuring sample collection accuracy even during self-administration.
Solution Approach 2:
The device replaces the mechanical speculum system traditionally used by physicians with a self-contained insertion tube and aligning tool system. The aligning tool with U-shaped handle provides mechanical positioning guidance, substituting the need for physician-manipulated speculums while maintaining sampling accuracy.
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
Enables accurate and non-traumatic self-collection of cervical tissue samples, improving accessibility and reducing the need for medical professionals, while ensuring sample integrity for laboratory analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a brush-like cellular adhesion surface for sample collection
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A device, a kit, and a method of use thereof, for self-administration and collection of cervical cell tissue samples such as for Pap smear testing. The device comprises an insertion tube, within which is carried a movable cervical aligning tool with an aligning probe, and a cellular sampling tool with a cellular adhesion surface. The aligning probe and cellular adhesion surface can be selectively movable relative to the insertion tube to improve accuracy of the testing and user safety.