DNA Sampling Device Plug Mechanism for Automated Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sampling devices for forensic and medical applications require special laboratory vessels for automated separation of the sample-collecting area from the holding device, which is inconvenient and increases production costs.
Innovation Solution
A sampling device with a proximal segment and distal sleeve connected by a plug that can be separated by applying a defined force, allowing the sample-collecting area to be easily detached from the holding device without the need for specialized laboratory vessels, using a combination of tight-fit and positive-lock connections for secure attachment and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the sample-collecting area is detachably connected to the holding device, then automated separation is enabled, but special laboratory vessels with retaining devices are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the separation function from the laboratory vessel and transfers it to the sampling device itself. The holding device is designed with an inner recess and plug mechanism that enables automated separation without requiring any special retaining devices in the laboratory vessel. The sample-collecting area is pushed into the inner recess, and the plug automatically secures it, allowing the holding device to be pulled out while retaining the sample-collecting area.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling device is designed to be self-sufficient for the separation process. The holding device includes integrated components (inner recess, plug, sleeve) that work together to automatically retain and release the sample-collecting area during the separation process, eliminating the need for external retaining mechanisms in the laboratory vessel.
2Reliability
If the holding device is separated from the sample-collecting area in the laboratory, then interference during processing is avoided, but contamination risk increases and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The separation mechanism is pre-configured in the holding device during manufacturing. The inner recess, plug, and sleeve are designed and assembled beforehand to work together as an integrated separation system. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the sample-collecting area is pushed into the holding device, the separation function is already in place and ready to operate automatically.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the plug is inserted with little clearance in the inner recess and sleeve, then stable connection is achieved, but separation requires defined force application
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses precise dimensional parameters for the plug, inner recess, and sleeve to create a tight-fit connection that provides stability during normal operation. The little clearance between these components ensures stable connection while the overall design allows for controlled separation when defined force is applied to push the sample-collecting area into the inner recess.
Data Source
AI summary
Sampling device for samples containing DNA in particular, with a sample-collecting area provided at the free end of an elongate holding device, wherein the sample-collecting area is designed to be separable from the sampling device.