Fluid Collection Device with Tapered Compression Swab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid collection devices for bodily fluids are time-consuming due to the need for centrifugation and prone to contamination during handling, especially in field applications where centrifuges may not be available.
Innovation Solution
A fluid collection device with an elongate container and a swab that compresses the absorbent collector as it is inserted, releasing the fluid sample without centrifugation, and a closure mechanism that seals and dispenses the fluid to minimize contamination and loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If centrifugation is used to extract fluid from the absorbent head, then the fluid extraction is effective, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the centrifugal mechanical system with a simple compression mechanism. The container has a tapered geometry that compresses the absorbent head axially when the swab is inserted, substituting the complex centrifugation equipment with a passive mechanical structure that achieves fluid extraction through compression alone
Solution Approach 2:
The container's tapered geometry automatically compresses the absorbent head during the insertion process itself, without requiring any additional equipment or steps. The swab insertion action directly performs the extraction function that previously required a separate centrifugation process
2Productivity
If centrifugation is used to extract fluid, then fluid extraction is achieved, but specialized equipment is required which may not be available in field conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the centrifugal mechanical system with a simple compression mechanism. The container has a tapered geometry that compresses the absorbent head axially when the swab is inserted, substituting the complex centrifugation equipment with a passive mechanical structure that achieves fluid extraction through compression alone
Solution Approach 2:
The container's tapered geometry automatically compresses the absorbent head during the insertion process itself, without requiring any additional equipment or steps. The swab insertion action directly performs the extraction function that previously required a separate centrifugation process
3Ease of operation
If the swab is handled open during fluid extraction, then fluid can be extracted, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the extraction container and the storage container into a single integrated unit. The same tapered container that performs fluid extraction also serves as the sealed storage vessel, eliminating the need to transfer the swab between containers and reducing exposure to contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered container acts as an intermediary that receives the swab, performs compression extraction, and then seals the extracted fluid. This intermediary structure protects the fluid from contamination during the entire process by providing a closed environment from extraction through storage
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 efficient release and dispensing of fluid samples without centrifugation, reducing contamination risks and handling complexities, particularly suitable for field use.
Implementation Method 1
the internal cross-sectional area of the container becomes smaller in a direction away from the opening, the internal cross-sectional area becoming sufficiently small so as to cause the absorbent collector to be radially compressed as the swab is inserted into the container in use, thereby causing the absorbent collector to release at least some of the fluid sample held therein
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid collection device comprising an elongate container having an opening at one end, and a swab that is insertable into the container through said opening, wherein: the swab comprises an absorbent collector, for acquiring a fluid sample in use; and the internal cross-sectional area of the container becomes smaller in a direction away from the opening, the internal cross-sectional area becoming sufficiently small so as to cause the absorbent collector to be radially compressed as the swab is inserted into the container in use, thereby causing the absorbent collector to release at least some of the fluid sample held therein. The swab may further comprise a shaft, the absorbent collector being at or near a distal end of the shaft, and a closure being at or near a proximal end of the shaft, the closure being adapted to engage with the container and to close the opening of the container with the absorbent collector inside the container. The closure may further comprise an outlet through which fluid within the container can be dispensed in use, subsequent to the closure having been engaged with the container.