Self-Collecting Cervical Sampling System with RFID Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sampling methods for cervical cancer screening are inadequate, as they require medical professionals and do not facilitate self-collection or reliable tracking, leading to low participation rates and potential sample contamination.
Innovation Solution
A sampling system comprising a flexible shaft with a detachable cylindrical sample collecting element and an embedded RFID-tag, allowing self-collection and secure, contamination-free sampling, with a sealable unit for storage and tracking via RFID technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sampling methods using spatulas or brushes are used, then sampling can be performed by medical professionals, but participation rates are low and self-collection is not facilitated
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables women to perform their own cervical sampling at home without requiring medical professionals. The self-collector allows independent sample collection by the patient themselves, dramatically increasing accessibility and participation rates while maintaining sample quality through proper design of the collection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling device is divided into separate functional components: a shaft for insertion, a collection element with raised portions and grooves for capturing cells, and a sealable unit for secure storage. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling easy assembly and disassembly for proper sample handling.
2Reliability
If traditional sampling without tracking systems is used, then sampling is simpler, but sample tracking and contamination prevention are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Manual tracking methods (paper records, barcodes) are replaced with an RFID electronic identification system. The RFID tag embedded in the collection element provides automatic, contactless identification and tracking of samples throughout the process, eliminating manual data entry errors and improving traceability without requiring complex external tracking infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification function is merged directly into the sample collection element itself through the embedded RFID tag. This integration ensures that the identifier travels with the sample throughout the entire process, from collection to laboratory analysis, preventing sample misidentification and contamination while simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If sampling devices are not designed for secure storage, then the device is simpler, but contamination risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sample collection element is nested within a sealable storage unit that provides a controlled environment for sample preservation. The collection element fits inside the sealable unit, creating a hierarchical containment structure that protects the sample from contamination during transport and storage while maintaining device simplicity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealable unit creates a protected, controlled environment for the collected sample, isolating it from external contaminants during transport and storage. This sealed containment maintains sample integrity without requiring complex active preservation systems, using passive physical barriers to prevent contamination.
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 reliable, self-administered sampling for cervical cancer screening, reducing contamination risks and improving tracking, thereby increasing participation and accuracy in cervical cancer detection.
Implementation Method 1
the collecting element having an RFID-tag comprising of an RFID-chip and an antenna
Data Source
AI summary
A sampling system for an individual to self-collect sample form mucous tissue is disclosed here. The collecting device has a flexible shaft having a handle at one end, and a sample collecting element removably connectable with the other end of the shaft and operable to collect a cell sample from mucous tissue of an individual. The collecting element includes an RFID tag for tracking the device and the sample once it is collected onto the collecting element. The system includes a sealable unit to store the sample collecting element having a cell sample thereon.