Leaf Sampling Device with Vent Drying and Self-Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices and processes for sampling biological materials, such as plant specimens, are complex and expensive, requiring sophisticated GPS tracking and highly trained personnel, which may not be available in all regions.
Innovation Solution
A sampling device with a cap and lower portion designed for cutting and containing leaf samples, featuring a vent for drying and a dead space passage for pipette access, allowing for efficient and cost-effective sampling and transport of plant material, compatible with standardized liquid handling systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex GPS tracking methods are used to correlate test results accurately, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device itself serves as the tracking identifier through its unique combination of vent position and dead space passage configuration. The device self-identifies its orientation and sample location without requiring external GPS or barcode systems, eliminating the need for complex tracking infrastructure while maintaining result correlation accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the tracking function from the sampling device structure itself, using the inherent geometric features (vent position relative to dead space passage) as the identification mechanism. This removes the dependency on separate expensive tracking systems while preserving the ability to correlate test results with specific samples.
2Measurement precision
If highly trained personnel are deployed to operate complex sampling systems, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to skill requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is designed to be self-explanatory and self-guiding through its unique geometric configuration. The vent position and dead space passage arrangement automatically indicate correct orientation and sample deposition location, eliminating the need for trained personnel to interpret complex instructions or operate sophisticated equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making specific geometric features (vent position, dead space passage location) serve as built-in instructions for correct operation. These localized structural characteristics guide the user intuitively without requiring general knowledge or training, while still ensuring accurate sample collection for precise testing.
3Reliability
If sophisticated tracking systems are implemented, then reliability of sample identification is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device provides its own identification through unique geometric features that are inherently reliable and difficult to replicate. The specific configuration of vent position relative to dead space passage creates a natural fingerprint for each device type, ensuring reliable sample identification without requiring external tracking systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The geometric features of the sampling device serve multiple functions simultaneously: they guide correct orientation during sampling, indicate sample deposition location, and provide unique identification for tracking. This multi-functionality achieves reliable identification without adding separate complex tracking components.
4Productivity
If standardized liquid handling systems are used for processing, then productivity is improved, but adaptability to non-standard samples decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling device is designed with universal geometric features (standardized vent position and dead space passage configuration) that are compatible with conventional liquid handling systems. These standardized features enable high-throughput processing while the device maintains adaptability to different plant samples through its general-purpose cutting and collection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the sampling function into distinct geometric components (cutting edge, vent position, dead space passage) that can be independently optimized. This segmentation allows the device to interface with standardized liquid handling systems through its geometric features while maintaining versatility for different sample types through its cutting and collection mechanisms.
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 accurate and cost-effective sampling of plant material, reducing the need for complex tracking systems and specialized personnel, while maintaining sample integrity during transport and processing.
Implementation Method 1
the cap includes a shaft configured to cooperate with the lateral post, and wherein the cap includes a vent in fluid communication with the sample container such that the leaf sample is dried during transport of the sampling device
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A sampling device having a lower portion with a sample container. A cap is moveably attached with the lower portion and includes a cutting edge configured for cutting a leaf. When the cap is attached to the lower portion with a leaf there between, a leaf sample is deposited into the sample container of the lower portion. The cap includes a vent in fluid communication with the sample container such that the leaf sample is dried. A detachable label can extend from the lower portion.