Deformable Absorbent Sample Collection for Accurate Quantification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen collection methods lack accuracy in quantification and are inconvenient, leading to erroneous results due to variable pressure application and high equipment costs, especially in portable devices.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection device with a deformable absorbent sample collection member and a sealing mechanism that allows precise quantification by controlling the volume of specimen discharge through a sealed outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dropper is used to drop the testing solution into the cassette, then the testing solution can be delivered, but accurate quantification is difficult due to varying pressure applied while pressing the dropper
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a pre-filled reservoir with a defined volume that automatically controls the amount of buffer solution delivered to the reaction chamber. The user simply inserts the sampling unit and the system self-regulates the fluid delivery through capillary action and pre-designed flow paths, eliminating the need for manual pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state and flow characteristics of the buffer solution by using a compressed gas reservoir that maintains constant pressure. The gas compression ratio and reservoir volume are precisely controlled during manufacturing to ensure consistent delivery of a specific volume of buffer solution, transforming the variable manual pressure into a fixed controlled parameter.
2Measurement precision
If a squeezing machine is used to compress the cassette containing saliva, then specimen quantification can be achieved, but the equipment cost is high and the size is large making it unsuitable for portable use
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling unit integrates multiple functions into a single compact component: the buffer reservoir, compression chamber, reaction chamber, and fluid delivery system are all combined in one unit. This eliminates the need for separate external squeezing machines while maintaining precise control over specimen compression and buffer delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses a flexible diaphragm that can be dynamically compressed by the user's finger to control the release of compressed gas and subsequent buffer solution delivery. This dynamic compression mechanism replaces the need for large mechanical squeezing machines while maintaining portability and quantification accuracy.
3Reliability
If the proportion between the concentration of the specimen and the buffer solution is not accurately controlled, then the rapid test can be performed, but erroneous results will be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer solution is pre-compressed into the reservoir at a specific compression ratio during manufacturing, and the reservoir volume is precisely controlled. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the user compresses the diaphragm, a known and accurate volume of buffer solution is delivered to the reaction chamber, maintaining the correct specimen-to-buffer proportion for reliable test results.
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 specimen quantification and prevents backflow, ensuring reliable test results while being portable and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
a sample collection member which is made of deformable absorbent material
Implementation Method 2
deformable absorbent material
Implementation Method 3
sealing portion, the sample collection member being insertable into the chamber and radially urging the squeeze portion
Data Source
AI summary
A sample collection device is provided, wherein the sample collection device includes: a container including a chamber and a squeeze portion within the chamber, opposing ends of the container including an opening and an outlet, respectively, the opening and the outlet being in communication with the chamber; and a sampling unit including a main body, the main body including a sample collection member which is made of deformable absorbent material, and a sealing portion, the sample collection member being insertable into the chamber and radially urging the squeeze portion, the sealing portion being annularly and sealingly engaged with an inner wall of the chamber.