Dual-Chamber Fluid Collection Device for Contamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing specimen collection devices face challenges such as hand contamination, spillage, and contamination during sample transfer, particularly for females and elderly patients, leading to potential false analyses and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A dual-chamber fluid collection device with a specimen collection tube assembly that includes a barrel with a first chamber and an inner tube with a second chamber, allowing for the separation of specimen residue and sediment within the device, eliminating the need for manual transfer and reducing contamination risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual transfer methods (pouring, pipetting, funneling) are used to transfer sample from container to test tube, then the transfer process can be completed, but the microbiological and chemical integrity of the sample is compromised and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the collection container and test tube into a single integrated device with a divided interior. The first chamber receives the sample directly from the patient, and the second chamber (test tube) is positioned within the same device, eliminating the need for separate transfer operations and maintaining sample integrity throughout the process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a funnel as an intermediary component that facilitates the transfer of sample from the first chamber to the second chamber. The funnel allows controlled pouring while preventing spillage and contamination, acting as a mediator between the collection and testing stages
2Loss of information
If multiple transfer steps are performed from collection container to test tube, then the sample can be transferred, but the possibility of mislabeling increases and time is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the collection container and test tube into one integrated unit with clearly defined chambers. The test tube is positioned within the collection device, allowing the sample to be transferred directly from the first chamber to the second chamber in a single step, eliminating multiple handling operations that could lead to mislabeling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary labeling of the test tube within the collection device before the sample transfer is complete. The test tube is pre-positioned and labeled in the same device where the sample is collected, ensuring correct identification before the sample even leaves the collection chamber
3Ease of operation
If conventional collection containers are used, then the collection process is simple, but hand contamination and spillage occur particularly for females and elderly patients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the test tube is positioned within the collection container, and both are housed within a larger outer container. This nested arrangement provides multiple levels of containment that prevent spillage and hand contamination while maintaining ease of use for patients
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a funnel as an intermediary component between the patient and the collection system. The funnel guides the sample flow and can be covered with a cap during transfer operations, acting as a barrier that prevents hand contamination while maintaining collection simplicity
4Productivity
If sample transfer is performed manually, then the transfer can be completed, but the risk of nosocomial diseases increases for medical staff
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the collection container and test tube into an integrated device that allows the sample to be transferred from the first chamber to the second chamber within the same device. This eliminates the need for medical staff to handle the sample separately, reducing exposure risk while maintaining transfer efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the collection device to perform the transfer function itself through its integrated design. The sample automatically moves from the first chamber to the second chamber through gravity or simple tilting, eliminating the need for manual intervention by medical staff and reducing nosocomial disease risk
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid collection device having a specimen collection tube assembly. The specimen collection tube assembly includes a barrel defining a first chamber and an inner tube or plunger defining a second chamber. The barrel includes a luer tip at one end, and another end is in slidable sealing engagement with the inner tube (220) defining a closed system thereof. The inner tube includes a luer tip at one end, and the opposite end is equipped with a seal separating the first and second chambers in the closed system. A conduit is selectively provided either at the luer tip of the inner tube extended towards the second chamber or from the luer tip of the barrel extended towards the first chamber. The luer tip (214) of the barrel and the luer tip of the inner tube are releasably provided with at least one luer knob.