Disposable Punch Cutting Edge for Sample Excision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for excising biological samples from solid supports often result in contamination due to carryover of sample material, requiring cumbersome decontamination steps that are time-consuming and costly, and lack control over successful removal of sample material, especially in automated systems.
Innovation Solution
A method using a punch and bearing device with a deformable metal grommet cutting edge that is replaced after each excision, eliminating the need for additional decontamination steps and ensuring a clean cutting edge for each sample extraction, reducing the risk of contamination and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the excising device is reused for multiple excisions, then productivity increases, but contamination risk increases due to carryover of sample material
Solution Approach 1:
The excising device is segmented into a reusable body and a disposable cutting element (punch). The cutting element is replaced after each use while the device body remains, thus maintaining productivity while eliminating contamination risk from sample carryover on the cutting surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting edge (punch) is designed as a low-cost, single-use component that is discarded after one excision. This disposable element eliminates the need for decontamination between uses, allowing continuous productivity without contamination risk.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If decontamination steps are performed between excisions, then contamination risk decreases, but time consumption and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of performing time-consuming decontamination steps, the cutting element is simply replaced with a fresh one. This disposable approach eliminates decontamination time while effectively preventing contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The used cutting element is discarded after one use rather than being cleaned and reused. This discarding strategy eliminates the need for decontamination procedures, saving time and simplifying the workflow.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If decontamination steps are performed between excisions, then contamination risk decreases, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a permanent body and a disposable cutting element. This segmentation transfers the decontamination function to simple replacement of the cutting element, avoiding complex decontamination systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cutting element is designed as a cheap, single-use component that eliminates the need for complex decontamination mechanisms. The simplicity of replacing a low-cost part avoids adding complex cleaning systems to the device.
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
This approach minimizes contamination risk, reduces the need for extensive decontamination procedures, and enhances the efficiency and reproducibility of sample extraction, making it suitable for both manual and automated setups while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
the cutting edge is disabled by deformation as a result of the excision
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a method for excising a biological sample on a solid support with a minimum risk of carry over contamination. Furthermore, analytical kits and systems as well as an excising device for excising a biological sample on a solid support are provided.