Fluid Adapter for Laminated Diagnostic Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid containers for medical test systems face issues with backflow and leakage, especially when flexible and used for small fluid volumes, due to the limitations of existing check valves and filling devices which often require additional components, increase costs, and result in inaccurate sample application.
Innovation Solution
A fluid adapter system that uses a positive displacement pipette tip to sealingly engage with a container, forming a fluid-tight seal to prevent backflow and eliminate dead space, allowing for the introduction of small sample volumes without leakage, and is designed for use with flexible containers that can be easily manipulated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If check valves are used to prevent backflow, then backflow is prevented, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the check valve component entirely and replaces it with a membrane closure system. The membrane is positioned to automatically seal the fluid introduction port when not in use, preventing backflow without requiring any valve mechanism. This extraction of the unnecessary component directly reduces device complexity while maintaining backflow prevention functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane closure system operates automatically based on pressure differential. When fluid is introduced, the membrane opens to allow flow; when fluid introduction stops, the membrane automatically seals the port to prevent backflow. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for external valve control systems, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable backflow prevention.
2Reliability
If check valves are used to prevent backflow, then backflow is prevented, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the check valve component entirely and replacing it with a simple membrane closure, the patent significantly reduces the number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked. This simplification directly lowers manufacturing costs while maintaining the essential backflow prevention function through the membrane's automatic sealing action.
3Volume of moving object
If luer lock unidirectional duck bill valves are used to reduce space, then space requirements are reduced, but dead space increases due to luer lock engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the luer lock engagement mechanism and associated duck bill valve structure by using a membrane closure system. This allows for a much smaller fluid introduction port design that accommodates syringe needles without requiring large engagement features. The result is both reduced overall device space requirements and minimized dead space volume, as the membrane can seal effectively with minimal clearance around the needle.
4Ease of operation
If flexible containers are used for easy manipulation, then ease of operation improves, but backflow and leakage risks increase due to compression
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane closure is pre-positioned to cover the fluid introduction port before the container is filled or manipulated. This preliminary sealing action ensures that even when the flexible container is compressed or manipulated, the port remains sealed unless actively opened for fluid introduction. The membrane's flexibility allows it to maintain the seal under compression while still permitting easy opening 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
The adapter system effectively prevents backflow and leakage, ensuring accurate and efficient introduction of small fluid volumes into flexible containers, reducing the need for additional components and maintaining the container's seal throughout the test process.
Implementation Method 1
the housing and the positive displacement pipette tip form a fluid-tight seal between the sample receiving compartment and a location outside of the container
Implementation Method 2
dead space is entirely avoided and the container remains sealed throughout the test due to the piston in the capillary of the tip
Data Source
AI summary
Contemplated diagnostic test containers and methods include an adapter configured to sealingly receive and retain a positive displacement pipette tip to so form a fluid-tight seal for the container during at least part of the diagnostic test. Most preferably, the entire container is flexible and the container and adapter are single-use disposable and are usable with known commercially available positive displacement pipette tips.