Detachable Capsule for Reproducible Stool Sample Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sample collection methods for stool samples are inefficient, non-reproducible, and pose risks of exposure to technicians, as they often require manual weighing and handling, which can lead to contamination and inaccurate sample sizes for downstream processing.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection device with a detachable capsule and a mechanism allowing it to open and close around a specimen, enabling collection of a defined volume with minimal user exposure, featuring a pair of half-scoops that can be easily manipulated to encapsulate and deposit samples into a container, ensuring reproducibility and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional spoon-type devices are used to break off samples from a specimen, then samples can be collected, but the sample size is not reproducible and manual weighing and aliquoting are required
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a reusable body and a detachable capsule that can be separated after sampling. The capsule is further segmented into two halves that can be pried apart to release the sample into the collection tube, enabling automated processing while maintaining simple device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The detachable capsule acts as an intermediary between the specimen and the collection tube. It captures the sample in a defined volume, then detaches to transfer the sample to the collection tube, eliminating the need for manual weighing and aliquoting while ensuring reproducible sample sizes.
2Productivity
If downward pressure is applied during sampling with a spoon device, then samples can be collected, but the probability that the underlying collection paper will fail increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling action is extracted from the collection paper by using the detachable capsule to capture the sample in mid-air or from the specimen surface without pressing down on the paper. The capsule encloses the sample and lifts it away, preventing paper failure while maintaining collection efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If the person collecting the sample is close to the specimen, then sampling can be performed, but the risk of exposure to the technician increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable capsule is designed as a disposable component that is discarded after a single use. This eliminates the need for complex cleaning and sterilization procedures, making the device convenient to use while ensuring that each new capsule is sterile and safe for the technician, thereby reducing exposure risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling function is extracted into a self-contained detachable capsule that can be manipulated from a distance. The capsule captures the sample and can be ejected into the collection tube without the technician needing to touch or come close to the specimen, reducing exposure risk while maintaining ease of operation.
4Measurement precision
If conventional collection methods are used, then samples can be collected, but manual weighing and handling are required which can lead to contamination and inaccurate sample sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The detachable capsule serves as an intermediary that pre-measures and pre-contains the sample in a defined volume during the sampling process. This eliminates the need for subsequent manual weighing and aliquoting steps, thereby ensuring accurate sample sizes while improving processing efficiency by enabling direct transfer to collection tubes for automated processing.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein is technology relating to collecting samples of soft matter compositions, and particularly, but not exclusively, to devices and methods for collecting stool samples.