Dual-Sided Sample Collection Device with Foldable Flaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collection cards typically have multiple sampling areas facing the same direction, exposing users to one sample when applying another, and lack efficient mechanisms for covering and transporting samples.
Innovation Solution
A collection device with a central panel featuring two sampling areas on opposite sides, each covered by a foldable flap, allowing for secure containment and transportation of multiple samples without adhesives, using perforations, foldable portions, and a handle for easy separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple sampling areas are provided on the same side of the collection card, then more samples can be collected simultaneously, but users are exposed to one sample when applying another
Solution Approach 1:
The collection card is divided into multiple sampling areas located on opposite sides of the card. Each sampling area is independent and can be accessed separately, allowing users to collect multiple samples without exposure to other samples. The card structure segments the sampling function across different spatial locations (front and back sides), resolving the contradiction between collecting multiple samples and preventing contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-sided sampling arrangement to a dual-sided sampling arrangement. By utilizing both the front and back sides of the collection card, the system increases the number of accessible sampling areas without increasing the footprint on a single surface. This dimensional expansion allows multiple samples to be collected simultaneously while maintaining user protection from contaminants.
2Reliability
If sampling areas are covered during transport, then sample protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flaps that cover the sampling areas are merged with the main body of the collection card. The flaps are formed as integral parts of the card structure, allowing them to be folded and sealed without requiring separate components or complex assembly mechanisms. This merging of the covering function into the card structure itself provides reliable sample protection while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection card employs foldable flaps that can dynamically transition between open and closed states. During sample collection, the flaps are folded back to provide access to sampling areas. During transport, the flaps are folded forward to cover and protect the samples. This dynamic functionality allows the same structure to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate mechanisms, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving reliability.
3Reliability
If adhesives are used to attach samples, then sample attachment reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the adhesive component entirely from the sample collection system. Instead of using adhesives to attach samples to the collection card, the design relies on the physical structure of the card and flaps to hold and protect samples. This extraction of the adhesive function simplifies manufacturing, reduces material usage, and eliminates the complexity associated with adhesive application and curing, while still maintaining reliable sample attachment through structural design.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are collection devices, kits, and methods for collecting and transporting one or more samples. A collection device of the present invention includes a central panel including a detachable sample strip. The sample strip has a sampling area for applying a sample on each side of the sample strip. The collection device includes two flaps, each capable of covering a portion of the sample strip that includes a sampling area. Consequently, a user is not exposed to a first sample when applying a second sample. Additionally, the sample strip can be detached without uncovering the sample strip.