Evacuated Container Self-Sampling for HPV
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for obtaining and storing cellular samples, such as for HPV screening, face challenges with sample drying and low uptake due to logistical and cultural barriers, as well as the need for reliable self-sampling solutions that maintain sample integrity for analysis.
Innovation Solution
An evacuated container with a puncturable seal and a needle assembly for direct collection of vaginal samples, using a transport medium like SUREPATH preservative to maintain sample integrity, allowing for self-sampling and easy storage for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If samples are collected using traditional methods (swabs, spatulas, brushes), then sample collection is possible, but samples are prone to drying out and losing integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an evacuated container system that uses vacuum pressure to collect and transport biological samples. The evacuated container creates a negative pressure environment that prevents sample drying and maintains sample integrity during transport, directly addressing the drying out problem while improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state parameters of sample collection by transitioning from solid/swab-based collection to fluid-based collection in an evacuated container. This parameter change allows samples to be collected in a liquid state, preventing drying and maintaining cellular material integrity throughout transport and storage.
2Ease of operation
If self-sampling is implemented to address logistical and cultural barriers, then accessibility is improved, but obtaining and maintaining appropriate samples becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-sampling by providing individuals with the capability to collect their own biological samples using the evacuated container system. The simplified design allows persons to perform sample collection independently, addressing logistical and cultural barriers while maintaining sample suitability through the preserved vacuum environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The evacuated container acts as an intermediary between the sample collection point and the laboratory analysis point. It maintains sample integrity during the transport phase, ensuring that samples collected through self-sampling remain suitable for analysis even when collected and transported under varying conditions.
3Reliability
If evacuated containers are used to maintain sample integrity, then sample storage reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sample collection and transport system into separate functional segments: the evacuated container for storage, the needle assembly for collection, and the puncturable seal for interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while simplifying the overall system design and maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable components including single-use evacuated containers and puncturable seals that are discarded after use. This approach eliminates the need for complex cleaning and sterilization procedures, reducing device complexity while maintaining high reliability through sterile, single-use components.
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
Enables reliable and efficient collection and storage of cellular fluid samples, overcoming sample drying issues and increasing accessibility for HPV screening by facilitating self-sampling and reducing logistical barriers.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure gradient between the chamber and the container is established which draws the fluid sample from the fluid sample chamber into the evacuated chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A self-sampling apparatus for collection of a cellular sample, particularly a vaginal sample for detection of human papillomavirus and its use is disclosed. The apparatus has an evacuated sample container closed by a puncturable seal and a fluid sample chamber in fluid communication with the evacuated container via a needle assembly. A fluid sample is drawn into the evacuated sample container upon establishing fluid communication between the fluid sample chamber and the evacuated container.