Extendable Specimen Testing Apparatus with Sealed Wick
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for evaluating liquid biological samples are limited in performing multiple tests simultaneously, lack privacy protection, and pose disposal and contamination risks due to leakage issues during storage and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A specimen testing apparatus with an extendable wick and multiple test membranes within a translucent outer case, where the wick transfers the specimen to the membranes via capillary action, and a sealing mechanism prevents leakage and contamination, allowing for easy reading and secure storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple test strips are used to perform multiple tests, then the number of tests increases, but the device complexity and risk of confusion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple test membranes onto a single extendable carrier, allowing multiple tests to be performed simultaneously on one integrated device rather than using separate test strips. This merging approach maintains versatility while reducing complexity and confusion.
Solution Approach 2:
The single carrier device is designed to perform multiple testing functions by incorporating different test membranes on the same platform, enabling one device to serve multiple purposes that previously required separate strips.
2Adaptability or versatility
If test strips are exposed to sample for multiple tests, then testing capability increases, but privacy protection and contamination risk worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The carrier containing the test membranes is nested within an outer case that provides sealing and protection. This nested structure allows the testing device to be sealed after sample exposure, preventing contamination and leakage during storage and transport while maintaining multi-test capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed as a disposable unit that can be sealed after use, eliminating the need for complex sterilization or storage protocols required by reusable strips, thereby reducing contamination risks.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the device is sealed for storage and transport, then privacy and safety improve, but accessibility to test results may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The outer case is designed with dynamic opening/closing capability, allowing the device to transition from a sealed state during storage to an open state for result reading. This dynamic design maintains safety during transport while ensuring easy accessibility to test results when needed.
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 concurrent performance of multiple tests, maintains privacy, and ensures safe storage and transportation by preventing exposure to hazardous materials through a self-sealing mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
transferring the specimen from the wick to the at least one test membrane using capillary action
Data Source
AI summary
A specimen testing apparatus includes an outer case and an inner case that adjustably extends beyond the bottom end of the outer case. The inner case has a plurality of test strips for biologically testing a specimen, whereby a wick affixed to the bottom end of the inner case draws the specimen into each of the test strips after the inner case is extended and the wick is exposed to the specimen. A cover is provided to protect the apparatus from contamination and to seal the apparatus after exposure to the specimen.