Saliva Collection Device with Grooved Tubular Transfer for Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing saliva collection devices are not compatible with automated liquid handling machines and are unsuitable for collecting and transferring viscous liquids like saliva, especially for older patients who produce smaller amounts, leading to inefficiencies in high-throughput testing for epidemics.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection device with a hollow upper portion, a tubular lower portion, and grooves that tapers and extends along a longitudinal axis, allowing for efficient collection and transfer of saliva into small-sized containers compatible with automated systems, such as the 96-well SBS format, along with a sample tube and cap for sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing saliva collection tubes are used, then collection volume is sufficient (1-2 mL), but the devices are bulky and not compatible with automated liquid handling machines
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device is designed with a nested structure where the collapsible collection bag is inserted into a rigid outer tube, which in turn fits into automation-compatible sample vials. This nested arrangement allows the bulky collection device to be compacted into small volumes suitable for automated handling while maintaining sufficient collection capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection device is divided into separate functional components: a collapsible collection bag for saliva accumulation, a rigid outer tube for structural support and automation compatibility, and a transfer mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the bag for capacity, the outer tube for automation interface, and the overall assembly for compact storage.
2Ease of operation
If small sized containers (96-well SBS format, 8 mm inner diameter) are used, then compatibility with automated systems is achieved, but it is difficult for patients to spit into these vials
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the collection function from the storage function. The collection portion is a wide-mouthed, patient-friendly container that accepts saliva easily, while the storage portion is a compact, automation-compatible vial. The transfer mechanism connects these two segments, allowing easy collection followed by automated transfer.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid outer tube acts as an intermediary between the patient-friendly collection opening and the automation-compatible sample vial. It provides a transition zone that maintains ease of collection at the top while enabling automation interface at the bottom, mediating between the two conflicting requirements.
3Productivity
If existing collection devices are used, then manual transfer to automation compatible vials is required, but this increases manual work and reduces testing throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the collection function, transfer function, and storage function into a single integrated assembly. The collapsible bag connects directly to the rigid outer tube, which is designed to fit into automation-compatible vials, eliminating the need for separate transfer steps and manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid outer tube serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the collapsible bag, acts as a transfer conduit for saliva, and provides the external dimensions needed for automation-compatible vial interfaces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and manual operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample collection device is provided and includes a hollow upper portion, a tubular lower portion, and at least one groove. The hollow upper portion tapers between a first open end and a second open end. The upper portion also defines a sample collection volume. The tubular lower portion extends along a longitudinal axis from the second open end to an open terminal end of the device. The lower portion further defines a lumen in fluid communication with the sample collection volume and the open terminal end. The at least one groove protrudes inward from an outer surface of the lower portion and extends along at least a portion of a length of the lower portion.