Microstructured Self-Spreading Culture Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing culture devices require external pressure to distribute samples uniformly, which can lead to uneven distribution and leakage when moved or subjected to pressure, complicating the growth and detection of microorganisms.
Innovation Solution
A self-spreading culture device with a waterproof substrate and microstructured surface, where a sample is added to a microstructured film with a gelling agent and microbial growth nutrients, allowing the sample to spread uniformly without external pressure and maintaining containment during handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If external pressure is applied to distribute sample uniformly, then sample distribution improves, but device complexity and risk of leakage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The culture device enables self-spreading of the sample liquid across the growth medium through its own structural properties (microstructured surface, capillary channels) without requiring external pressure application or user intervention. The device structure itself performs the distribution function that would otherwise require external force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical pressure application system with capillary action and surface tension effects. The microstructured surface and capillary channels utilize fluid dynamics principles to achieve uniform sample distribution without mechanical compression or external force.
2Manufacturing precision
If cover sheet is pressed to spread sample, then sample distribution improves, but sample leakage increases when moved or stacked
Solution Approach 1:
The culture device is pre-configured with microstructured surfaces and capillary channels that are designed to automatically wick and distribute sample liquid upon contact. This preliminary structural preparation eliminates the need for post-inoculation pressing and prevents leakage during subsequent handling or stacking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs porous or microstructured materials that utilize capillary action to draw and distribute sample liquid uniformly across the growth medium. This porous structure provides both the distribution function and the containment mechanism, allowing the device to be stacked without sample leakage.
3Manufacturing precision
If uniform pressure is applied during spreading, then sample distribution improves, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The culture device performs the spreading function automatically through its inherent structural properties. When sample liquid is added, the microstructured surface and capillary channels self-regulate to distribute the liquid uniformly without requiring the user to apply controlled pressure or perform complex spreading maneuvers.
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 uniform distribution and retention of samples, facilitating the growth and detection of microorganisms without leakage, even when the device is moved or subjected to pressure, improving the efficiency of microbial testing and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
When the liquid sample is added to the device, the liquid can spread to the outer edge or edges of the surface without the need to apply external pressure to the cover sheet of the device
Implementation Method 2
After spreading the films must be left to stand for several minutes to hydrate the dried gelling agents
Data Source
AI summary
A device for growing microorganisms. The device can include a self-supporting, water-proof substrate having an inner-facing surface and an outer-facing surface; a cover sheet having an inner-facing surface and an outer-facing surface, the cover sheet adhered to at least a portion of the substrate; a microstructured surface on the inner-facing surface of the coversheet, wherein the microstructured surface comprises a plurality of microstructures; a substantially dry, gelling agent and a substantially dry, microbial growth nutrient composition disposed on the microstructured surface of the microstructured film or on a portion of the inner-facing surface of the substrate.