Microscopic Sample Collection Device with Work Stand

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional microscopic sample collection methods using tape-lift and swabbing techniques are inefficient due to uneven tape contact, contamination risks, and excessive liquid usage, which hinder the collection of trace amounts of samples like DNA from varied surface materials.

Innovation Solution

A microscopic collection device with a holding element and collection platform that allows for even tape contact and minimizes contamination, featuring a work stand for single-operator tape attachment, maximizing sample collection area and reducing excess tape usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If tape is wrapped around forceps for sample collection, then the collection process can be performed, but the tape does not come into contact evenly against the surface and collection efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample collection efficiencyVSAvoidtape contact uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the collection system into distinct functional components: a rigid support structure, a removable tape module, and a collection head. This segmentation allows the tape to be positioned independently on a flat support surface, ensuring even contact with the target surface while maintaining collection efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from wrapping tape in one dimension (around forceps) to positioning tape in multiple dimensions (on a flat support surface with controlled orientation). This dimensional change enables the entire tape surface to contact the target uniformly, resolving the contact uniformity issue.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Area of stationary object

If tape is wrapped around forceps, then collection can proceed, but the surface area of tape in contact with the surface is small

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetape contact surface areaVSAvoidcollection device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the tape from the holding instrument, the device creates a dedicated collection platform with maximized surface area. The tape lies flat on this platform, providing maximum contact area without requiring complex wrapping structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a simplified support structure that copies only the essential function of forceps (holding and positioning tape) while eliminating the complex wrapping requirement. This allows maximum tape surface area to be utilized for collection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If multiple operators wrap tape around forceps, then the device can be prepared, but inadvertent tape contamination occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesample purityVSAvoidtape attachment process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tape is pre-positioned on the support structure in a controlled manner, with adhesive sides properly oriented before the collection process begins. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for multiple operators to wrap tape during operation, reducing contamination risk while maintaining ease of use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The device design allows a single operator to load and position the tape module independently. The self-contained structure guides proper tape placement, eliminating the need for cooperative wrapping by multiple operators and thereby preventing contamination.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Quantity of substance

If swabbing technique is used to collect microscopic samples, then collection can be performed, but extra liquid is added which increases contamination probability and dilution

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemicroscopic sample concentrationVSAvoidcontamination and dilution

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the liquid component from the collection process entirely. By using dry tape-lift methodology on a controlled platform, the system collects microscopic samples without introducing external liquids, thereby eliminating dilution and liquid-related contamination risks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The device uses a disposable tape module that is used once and discarded, eliminating the need for cleaning and reusing swabs or tools that require liquids. This single-use approach prevents cross-contamination and dilution issues associated with reusable wet swabbing equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS11460377B2Device for microscopic sample collection

Publication Date: 2022.10.04 THE MITRE CORPORATION

AI summary

Various embodiments directed to a work stand for holding a microscopic collection device for collecting a microscopic sample from a target surface, are provided. The work stand includes a first slit formed on a top surface of the work stand and capable of holding a first microscopic collection device comprising a first holding element and a first collection platform, wherein the first collection platform of the first microscopic collection device is perpendicular to the top surface. A second slit formed on the top surface of the work stand and capable of holding a second microscopic collection device comprising a second collection platform and a second holding element at an angle to the second collection platform perpendicular to the top surface of the work stand.