Forensic Collection Device With Segmented Adhesive Tape
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for collecting forensic biological and chemical samples from surfaces are cumbersome, prone to contamination, and result in sample loss due to the handling and adhesion issues with existing devices, particularly with trace evidence which is difficult to handle and analyze.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a holding element, a releasing element, and a collection element that allows for mechanical detachment and re-use, minimizing direct contact and contamination, with a collection element designed for efficient sample transfer into a sample tube, featuring a plug-and-socket connection and a flexible releasing mechanism for easy operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If adhesive tape is used for sample collection, then adhesion force is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to trimming and handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the tape into functional segments: a collection area with adhesive coating and side portions without adhesive. The side portions serve as handle areas that can be grasped without contamination risk, while the collection area maintains adhesive properties for sample collection. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing both strong adhesion where needed and easy handling where required.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive coating is applied selectively only to specific regions of the tape (the collection area), while the side portions remain adhesive-free. This local differentiation allows the tape to exhibit strong adhesion properties only where sample collection is needed, while the handle areas provide grip without contamination risk, thus resolving the contradiction between adhesion force and ease of operation.
2Strength
If adhesive tape is used for sample collection, then adhesion force is improved, but contamination risk increases due to manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The tape is segmented into adhesive collection areas and non-adhesive handle areas. The non-adhesive side portions can be grasped by fingers or forceps without transferring contaminants to the adhesive surface, thereby maintaining sample integrity while providing easy handling. This segmentation directly addresses the contradiction by separating contamination-prone handling functions from contamination-sensitive collection functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-adhesive side portions act as an intermediary between the user's hands and the adhesive collection area. By providing a dedicated handle region that does not require direct contact with the adhesive surface, it mediates the interaction between user and sample, preventing contamination while maintaining strong adhesion for sample collection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If flexible adhesive tape is used for collection from non-even surfaces, then adaptability is improved, but sample transfer efficiency deteriorates due to sticking issues
Solution Approach 1:
The tape is divided into adhesive collection zones and non-adhesive release zones. The adhesive segments conform to non-even surfaces for effective sample collection, while the non-adhesive segments provide a release mechanism that prevents unwanted sticking during transfer. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing flexibility and adhesion where needed while providing release capability where transfer is required.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the entire tape adhesive, the invention inverts the approach by making only the necessary collection areas adhesive while leaving the handle and transfer areas non-adhesive. This inversion solves the sticking problem during transfer while maintaining adaptability to non-even surfaces during collection, as the adhesive portions can still conform to surface irregularities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a device as well as a collection element (1) for collecting a chemical and/or biological sample directly from a surface exposing said sample material. Furthermore, a method for collecting a chemical and/or biological sample directly from a surface exposing said sample material and a kit thereof is subject-matter of the present invention.