Integrated Micro-Cavity Liquid Waste Collection Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for collecting liquid waste from diagnostic assays are inefficient and costly due to the use of separate components for absorption, leading to variability and increased manufacturing overhead.
Innovation Solution
A fully-integrated device with micro-cavities for collecting liquid waste, utilizing capillary action and hydrophilic coatings to retain waste within the device, eliminating the need for separate absorption components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate absorption components (absorbent tubes, pads, seals) are used for liquid waste collection, then liquid waste can be collected, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the waste collection function directly into the reaction vessel structure by forming micro-cavities within the vessel wall. This eliminates the need for separate absorption components (tubes, pads, seals) while maintaining effective liquid waste collection. The micro-cavities are integrated into the reaction vessel body, creating a unified structure that combines reaction and waste collection functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The reaction vessel is designed to serve multiple functions: it contains the reaction mixture, maintains pressure, and collects liquid waste through integrated micro-cavities. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated separate waste collection components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining waste collection effectiveness.
2Reliability
If separate absorption components are integrated into the system, then liquid waste collection is achieved, but manufacturing overhead and processing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the waste collection function into the reaction vessel structure itself, the patent eliminates the need for separate manufacturing and integration processes for absorption components. The micro-cavities are formed directly in the reaction vessel wall during a single manufacturing process, reducing processing steps and overhead costs.
3Reliability
If separate absorption components are used, then liquid waste can be collected, but variability in collection effectiveness increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of micro-cavities directly into the reaction vessel wall ensures consistent geometry and positioning of waste collection features. This eliminates variability introduced by assembling separate components, as the micro-cavities are formed as an integral part of the vessel structure with precise, repeatable dimensions.
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
This solution enhances efficiency and reduces costs by ensuring complete and safe collection of liquid waste, minimizing the risk of biohazard spills and manufacturing variability.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing capillary action and hydrophilic coatings to retain waste within the device
Implementation Method 2
utilizing capillary action and hydrophilic coatings to retain waste within the device
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
Devices, kits, and methods related to embodiments of an improved liquid test sample injection device for use in diagnostic assays and for the collection of liquid waste produced from such diagnostic assays.